//------------------------------//
// Chapter 31: Meet and Greet 
// Story: Shy and Aggressive 
// by Johng117 
//------------------------------//

It was noon and Junior was taking a seat at the lunch table, where he held a tray of food. As he ate, Angirasu and Rodan were conversing.
"Bro, I'm telling you! We can do it!" said Rodan as he excitedly spoke. Angirasu bore a look of reluctance.
"Ah. I don't know. I'm not much of a guy who does that kind of thing," said Angirasu.
"What are you guys talking about?" asked Junior as he ate his lunch.
"I was thinking that we should perform at that musical show case!" said Rodan. Junior bore a blank expression.
"By 'we', you mean just you, right?" asked Junior.
"No, I mean all three of us! Think about it, we can either rap, or even play some rock and roll! I'd shred on the guitar, you on the bass, Aang on the drums, we can even get a girl that we know to sing!" said Rodan. Junior merely went back to eating.
"Fuck that," said Junior with bluntness. Rodan bore a look of disappointment.
"Why not?" asked Rodan.
"Well for one, I have better things to do than to participate in these stupid school events. Second, I can't play any instruments and I don't sing. Third, there wouldn't be enough time for us to even practice," said Junior as he ate.
"He's right. I have no experience with instruments either," said Angirasu with a shrug. "If we did agree, what girl did you have in mind to sing?"
"I don't know. Maybe Mosu," said Rodan. "I bet she's got a great singing voice."
"Why are you suddenly obsessed with this musical showcase? Is it because of Adagio and her sisters?" asked Junior with a raised a brow.
"It's quicker if you just called them the Dazzlings," said Rodan with a deadpanned stare. Junior scoffed.
"No. I refuse to call them by their stage name like a fanboy," said Junior. Rodan rolled his eyes in response.
"I actually was thinking we do it before they even showed up. Come on, it'll be fun. Hell, we might even be able to become famous!" said Rodan.
"Then you do it. I don't want any part of it!" said Junior in annoyance. Rodan groaned.
"You guys are so lame!" complained Rodan. "We're teenagers! Whatever happened to enjoying youth to the fullest while getting into hijinks?"
"Rodan, we've already been through hijinks. The castle on Halloween," said Angirasu with an annoyed sigh at Rodan's complaining.
"The time where I nearly ate you alive as a dinosaur and the time you and I escaped a drive by. I think we've been through enough hijinks for a life time," said Junior with a scoff. Rodan scowled as he leaned his head on the table. Junior's phone vibrated in his pocket, prompting him to answer it. He found a text that was from Fluttershy. He sighed in response.
"Hey, you guys busy after school?" asked Junior in reluctance.
"Why?" asked Angirasu.
"Fluttershy asked me to introduce her friends to Adagio and the- OK, Rodan I think you were onto something about their name after all," said Junior with a defeated sigh.
"So, you want us to come along? Why?" asked Rodan. Angirasu smacked his shoulder.
"Did you forget?" asked Angirasu.
"Oh right," said Rodan sheepishly.
"I just need at least one of you who is a bit more familiar with the... Ugh... Dazzlings. I'll let them know and take them to see Shy and her friends while you guys keep the singers company," said Junior. Rodan sighed.
"Dude, it bugs me that you're referring to them as her friends exclusively," said Rodan.
"Well as far as I'm concerned, I'm no longer friends with most of Fluttershy's clique. And I'm going to treat them as such," replied Junior as he crossed his arms. Rodan and Angirasu both nodded in response, though they weren't fond of the reality.




Later that day...

Junior was walking side by side with Angirasu and Rodan. School had just ended and the trio was currently going to meet with the Dazzlings. That is if they could find them in this sea of students. Though it shouldn't be too hard since the three stick out like a sore thumb. As they walked, Junior accidentally bumped into a girl.
"Oh sorry," said Junior as he backed off. He then noticed Erika rubbing her nose with a grunt.
"It's fine. Oh! Hi, guys," greeted Erika with a cheerful smile.
"Yo Erika! Why weren't you at the club yesterday?" asked Rodan in curiosity. Erika cleared her throat.
"Oh. I was just sick, couldn't make it," said Erika. Junior raised a brow at her cheerful mood. She wasn't normally this chipper. Then his expression turned to concern as he realized that she claimed that she was sick.
"Sick? Are you OK? I mean, is it alright to be out?" asked Junior. Normally this would seem like he was overreacting, but given his knowledge on Erika's condition, he felt worried. Erika was able to catch onto this.
"I'm fine. In fact, I'm great!" said Erika with a deep inhale and sighed. The trio Transmutants glanced at each other, unsure of whether this was genuine cheerfulness or a facade.
"You seem... In quite a good mood," said Angirasu. Erika giggled as she held her hands behind her back.
"That's because... I'll tell you guys about it later. Any of you seen Sunset?" asked Erika.
"She's with Twi and the others. Hey, are you familiar with those pop singers, the Dazzlings? They go to our school since yesterday!" said Rodan. Erika smiled in surprise.
"Oh, no way! I'm gone for one day and this happens?  What a week," said Erika with a smile.
"We're arranging a meet and greet. Sunset will be there too," said Angirasu. Rodan gasped as he looked ahead.
"I see Sonata! Come on!" said Rodan as he began to press through the crowd, with Angirasu trailing behind him.
"Oh wow! That is one of them," said Erika as she began to walk away. Junior quickly caught her shoulder with a look of concern. Erika looked at him in confusion.
"Hey, Erika are you really OK?" asked Junior. Erika softly smiled as she took his hand off her shoulder and held it firmly.
"I'm better than OK," said Erika. It was at that moment that Junior noticed her eyes. It wasn't the genuine peace that was in them that he saw. Rather, it was the color of her irises that he just noticed.
"Your eyes. Are you wearing contacts?" asked Junior. Erika laughed.
"No. This my natural eye color now," said Erika. Junior looked at her in confusion.
"Now? What does that mean?" asked Junior.
"I wanted to wait to tell you guys, but I can't! Gojira, I'm cured," said Erika in a soft tone. Junior stared in surprise.
"You're... What?" asked Junior. Erika nodded as her grip tightened on Junior's hand.
"I've been cured! My father found a cure and saved my life! That's why my eyes are different!" said Erika.
"But... I thought that..." Junior bore a look of disbelief.
"I did too! But my genius father found it! I don't know how but he did!" said Erika with a laugh of joy as she wrapped Junior into a tight hug. The Transmutant broke into a soft smile as he gently patted her back, while embarrassed by the girl's affection.
"I'm happy for you, Erika. Really," said Junior. Erika released Junior as the two walked to where Rodan and Angirasu had left to.
"You know, I spent every night praying to God that I would one day wake up, free of that disease. I did it every morning, at home, at church, and even school. But as I got older and I was told I was getting worse, I thought it wasn't his will or he just didn't care," said Erika with a soft frown.
"That must have sucked," said Junior.
"It did. But even though I was told I had little time left, I kept praying, though not on just to be cured, but on something that I should have done before. For the security and health of my friends, my father, and I even prayed for you. Next thing I know, my father found a cure, and I woke up clean. Just as I had always prayed for" said Erika with a soft smile. Junior grimaced.
"Wait. Does God think that I'm that shitty of a person that warrants a prayer?" asked Junior. Erika bore a look of alarm.
"No! Not like that! I prayed that your situation would get better. That people would see that you're innocent, and that you'll maybe be able to have many more great friends," said Erika with a warm smile. Junior softly smiled at Erika's words.
"Ah. You don't need to bother about that last part. I think I'm fine with the number of friends that I have right now. But, I appreciate it. It's certainly a lot more than some of those mainstream religious folks," said Junior. Erika nodded in response with a smile.
"Love thy neighbor. It's what I live by," said Erika.
"Even if they're an asshole?" asked Junior jokingly. Erika gave a small chuckle.
"It was never said to be easy. But you're not on that list to me," said Erika.



Canterlot Institute for Women. One of the many facilities that confine those of criminal acts. Barbed wire was on top of the tall fences, while guards stood posted at specified areas and within towers that overlooked the compound. The cold air condensed against bricks, the blacktop, and the metal that was within prison grounds. Within the facility, a large number of inmates were present in the prison were currently in the cafeteria. As your typical prison goes, there are different cliques that keep to themselves and gather together like wasp nests. You have those of certain ethnicities grouped together, some from different gangs, and some who keep to themselves who wish to just serve their sentence. But recently, a growing number of inmates with affiliation or even support of the terrorist group, the Purists, have taken root in prisons across the country. Their arrests normally range from crimes involving theft, murder, etc. It wasn't always because of terrorism. In some cases, a court may have been biased towards the Purists, but that didn't mean that those who were arrested could get off scott free, as was the case for Adrian Nightshade.
Adrian was sitting at a table where several other women, young and old, were present. All of these women bore tattoos of skulls with double helices on them. Adrian sighed heavily at the table.
"So the divorce finally went through. Unfortunately, since I'm in here, he gets the kids," said Adrian.
"Ah that bastard will get what's coming to him, darlin'. He's lucky that he didn't end up like that freak that he was foolin' around with," said a woman with a southern accent as she ate her lunch.
"Disgusting. Not only for not being faithful to you, but also knowingly sleeping with one of those things," said another woman. Adrian remained silent as she ate her lunch. Right now, she would be in Ponyville helping with moving the fire arms across cities for the Purists, but then that damn Transmutant got in the way and killed her men and left her to the police. She felt the back of her shoulder. Beneath her shirt, feeling a burn scar that was in the shape if wings. She was branded by that freak like a cow. The “Night Angel” was no angel, he was a demon, like the rest of his kind. Adrian sighed as she continued to eat.
"Something else on your mind?" asked another woman beside her.
"Ah. I just still can't believe that Transmutant got off," said Adrian with scoff.
"Oh, you mean X? Yeah girl, that was bullshit. That kid is obviously him," said the woman with a nod.
"What kind of world are we living in? There are suddenly muties putting on masks and killing and beating people up like a fucking comic book. MONARCH isn't doing its job. We need more people like Purists who care about the security of humans to stand up to these bastards. What if more start getting the same idea and start causing trouble in other cities in the shadows? As if the Revolutionaries weren't bad enough," said another woman. The others at the table began to speak in agreement.
Adrian went back to eating as her clique conversed. Later, she found herself lying on her bed in her cell staring up at the ceiling. Her hands were on her stomach as she stared at the same ceiling that she had seen for months. Its white surface and cracked textures was seared into her mind. Every night that she would go to sleep, she yearned that she would wake up and see that it was all a dream. Adrian suddenly heard a knock on her cell's gate. She turned and found a man slide a package in between the bars.
"Delivery for you, Ms. Nightshade. If I was you, I'd open it now," said the guard with a smirk. Adrian raised a brow in confusion, not familiar with this guard from the months she had been here. She got off her bunk and went over to the package. She opened it and was surprised to find a gas mask.
"What the hell?" asked Adrian as she took out the mask. She suddenly heard hissing. She looked outside and saw a vent beginning to give off a mist. Adrian's eyes widened in response and quickly put on the mask as cell mates cried out to the guards in panic. The mist began to engulf the entire room, silencing the inmates and guards that were present. Adrian took quick breaths as she looked through the goggles of her mask. Her sight was slightly obscured from the gas that hung in the air. After a minute, she heard a loud buzzing sound in the air. Her cell suddenly swung open. Cautiously, Adrian stepped out of her cell. She looked around and saw at least a few other women do so as well, while wearing gas masks. The others were lying in their cells unconscious. The sound of the siren blaring outside filled the air that alerted of an escape in progress, but no guards came rushing in. Suddenly a wall burst open, startling the women. From the hole emerged an armored man with a helmet with a skull painted on the face. His gauntlets whirred as debris fell from his arms.
"Ladies. I come on behalf of the Purists. Come with me if you want to be free," said Impact. Adrian quickly rushed towards the hole at the mention of her group. The rest of the women either rushed immediately or reluctantly followed. Impact was leading the inmates through the compound as the siren blared. The sound of gun fire filled the air, startling the inmates. Adrian turned and found a guard on a tower aiming his rifle at them.
Suddenly, another armored figure appeared to be scaling the wall, with what appeared to be a mechanical tail attached to a harness on his hind quarters. The armored man's tail swung up towards the guard and impaled him in the chest with the blade at the end. As the guard died, more gun fire began to fill the air. Two other guards down below were firing at the armored man. The scorpion tail came around and suddenly fired a beam of plasma that burned the guards with one stroke, killing them.
Adrian stared in shock, never seeing any technology like this before in the hands of the Purists. She and the rest of the inmates followed Impact towards another hole in the outer wall, led to outside. The scorpion tailed man began to follow them out as a few other guards shot at them but hung back as the plasma beam came at them. Soon, Adrian herself and the others led to where couple vans appeared. One opened and revealed a man signaling the inmates to hurry onto the vehicle. They did so, with Impact coming in last. The scorpion tailed man hopped in the back of the other van along with the few couple remaining inmates. The vehicles then took off, while the prison alarm still blared.
Adrian found herself sitting down in the back of the van as Impact removed his helmet to reveal his face.
"Impact," said Adrian in surprise.
"Adrian. Looking as good as ever," said Impact as he bounced his brows. Adrian rolled her eyes.
"Wait, what the hell is going on?" asked one of the inmates in the van.
"Well, I'm Impact. And I am a part of an organization dedicated to protecting humans from Transmutants. Even if it means killing fellow humans who get in the way. My colleagues and I came to rescue you all," said Impact as he placed his helmet to the side.
"I don't understand. We've never done this unless it was important," said Adrian.
"Well, we came to rescue you, Adrian. You are a valuable member of our organization. We also thought it wouldn't hurt to maybe recruit those who would like to fight for their freedom," said Impact.
"Wait, I'm not even actually a militant Purist. I'm just someone who agrees with you guys," said a woman. Impact shrugged.
"Hey, that's fine. We do some dangerous stuff. We risk our lives and our livelihood by doing what we believe is right and for the greater good. I'm sure you have family or someone you want to return to. But here's the thing, you're an escaped convict. You may never have a normal life again unless you flee to Mexicolt or something. But if you want to retake your freedom and live safely, we'd be willing to take you in," said Impact as he looked to the women.
"You won't even have to fight. Whatever you can contribute counts," said Impact. The women all looked to each other with unsure expressions. Impact sighed.
"It's a long trip. Think it over," said Impact as he went to the front seat of the van. Adrian made her to the front and hung behind the passenger side as Impact looked over the driver's shoulder.
"Impact what was that back at the prison? What is this armor?" asked Adrian.
"Like it? A little something our employer gave us from Hideki Industries. We got several more back at home too. He wants us to 'test them' against those freaks. But we thought a little prison break would be a great field test too, as you saw with our scorpion friend," said Impact.
"But how did you get the masks in here? And the gas!" said Adrian.
"Hey, we may seem like a minor threat to MONARCH, but we got a good amount of support in high and low places. Prisons are no exception," said Impact. He then gave her a smirk.
"This may be a good chance for you to get back at that Night Angel guy. And Scar has something that may help you," said Impact. Adrian narrowed her eyes as she nodded in response.



Junior found himself walking through town alongside Erika, Rodan, Angirasu and the Dazzlings. The group had made their way over to a cafe. Junior stayed behind as the rest entered inside, where they found the main six, Sunset and Mosura. They greeted the group, while Pinkie gasped with excitement. A few customers began to murmur as they noticed the pop stars. The group made their way over to the large half circular booth in the back. Rodan, Erika, and Angirasu took a seat at a nearby table, allowing the Dazzlings to have the empty seats at the booth.
"Um... Adagio, my friends Pinkie Pie and Rarity were the big fans that I was telling you about. I um... I hope you don't mind that my other friends tagged along as well," said Fluttershy with a worried expression.
"Not at all! The more the merrier!" said Adagio as she began to shake the hands of the two known fans.
"Ms. Dazzle, it is such an honor to meet you three! I must say, beside your musical talents, you three have great outfits! I especially loved your outfits for the holiday show that you did last year!" said Rarity with nervous laughs as she bore a smile that she attempted to keep from breaking out too large. She was so star struck.
"Thank you, but Adagio is just fine. I love your hair! It is gorgeous!" said Adagio. Rarity smiled in flattery as she giggled excitedly.
"Oh, thank you," said Rarity.
"I'm Pinkie Pie! I'm your biggest fan!" said Pinkie as she eagerly shook Adagio's hand, who bore a forced smile as her hand was furiously shaken.
"If I had a dollar every time I heard that," said Aria as she crossed her arms. She would definitely have a lot of dollars for all of the times that she was told that someone was her biggest fan.
"But I'm your biggest! I'm huge! I'm enormous! Gigantic! You have to put me in my own category of your fandom to see just how much of a fan I am!" said Pinkie. Sonata gasped.
"What about super fan?" asked Sonata.
"Ultra-fan!" said Pinkie as she came closer to Sonata. They both gasped in unison as a synergetic thought came.
"Super Ultra Fan!" Pinkie and Sonata said in unison. Aria groaned in annoyance.
"Great. They're bonding," muttered Aria. Rainbow pulled Pinkie back a bit.
"Sorry. She's just really excited to meet you three. She won't even shut up whenever you guys drop a new album," said Rainbow with a chuckle. "Name's Rainbow Dash by the way."
"Howdy. I'm Applejack," waved AJ.
"My name is Mosura," greeted Mosura with a smile.
"Twilight Sparkle," greeted Twilight.
"And I'm Sunset Shimmer," greeted Sunset. Adagio analyzed the group as she mentally began to jot down their names.
"Hmm. Good thing I'm good with names. Nice to meet you beautiful ladies! Especially you, Ms. Shimmer," said Adagio with a wink. Sunset bore a look of confusion.
"Uh... Wait what?" asked Sunset.
"So, what brings famous pop stars to our little humble town?" asked Applejack in curiosity.
"We're on a break," answered Aria as she and Sonata took a seat beside Adagio. She then looked to the side and found a waitress.
"Hey, can we order something over here?" called Aria.
"Be with ya in a moment,” replied the waitress.
"But why here? Aren't there better places then here? Like Los Pegasus," said Erika. Rodan scoffed.
"Only rich parts of L.P. are better. Not the hood," said Rodan. He received odd stares while Rodan chuckled in embarrassment.
"Sorry. Just sour about some past stuff," said Rodan with a sheepish smile.
"Well, we thought that it would be nice to get away from the city and to be out in the country area," said Adagio.
"So, we're living with our aunt Sarila here!" said Sonata. Twilight smiled in response.
"Well, we certainly hope that you enjoy your stay here in Ponyville," said Twilight. The cafe door opened, where Junior stepped in. Twilight immediately lost her smile as she noticed him coming in. Junior made a small sigh as he stepped walked over. Looks of discomfort came over most the girls. Junior took a seat beside Erika as he kept his eyes forward. Rainbow merely sent him a glare.
"What are you doing here?" asked Rainbow.
"I asked him to come," said Fluttershy as she looked at Rainbow in disapproval.  "He's been nice enough to ask the Dazzlings to come here."
"But-"
"Rainbow," called Applejack as she looked at Rainbow in disapproval. She understood very well Rainbow's concern, but she rather there not be any trouble started. Rainbow crossed her arms as she leaned back in her seat. Mosura and Sunset looked on worriedly as Twilight hardened her expression and Pinkie deeply frowned and lowered her eyes to the ground. The atmosphere grew tense, which could be felt by the Dazzlings.
"Soooo... What do you guys do for fun out here?" asked Sonata.
"Way to know to change the subject," muttered Aria, genuinely impressed by Sonata not saying something stupid for once in a situation like this.
"There's some great places to hang out at with friends. Whether if it's just to shop or sit down and eat," said Sunset. Erika gasped.
"Oh! Gojira, you and Rodan know some fun things to do, right?" asked Erika. Junior looked at her in confusion.
"Us?" asked Junior.
"Yeah! Didn't you do anything with those girls you knew from junior high? Their names were Zip and Thorn, right?" asked Erika. The male Transmutants stiffened at the mention of the girls. Meanwhile, Mosura's brow twitched at the mention of Zip. She tapped her finger on the table.
"Oh. Um... We uh... Just saw a movie," said Junior.
"Yeah! We also stopped at a local pet shop. There's a bunch of cute little animals. If you're into that," said Rodan with a cough.
"Really? Goji, I didn't know you were that popular with the ladies. My, that's got me curious," said Adagio with a coy smile while Junior bore a nervous smile, not wanting to talk about the two Transmutant girls.
"It'd be better if you weren't," muttered Twilight as she took a sip of her soda. Junior's brow twitched in annoyance as he heard the petite girl.
"I wouldn't say that," said Junior.
"Really? You're surrounded by a bunch of gorgeous girls! That seems popular to me," said Adagio. Junior rolled his eyes.
"God, I hope not. I think I'd have to isolate myself to avoid something as trivial as popularity," said Junior with a chuckle.
"Hmm. You've already done that plenty of times," said Twilight, while Applejack sent her a look. Junior sent her a look of annoyance.
"Excuse me?" asked Junior.
"You isolate yourself from others all the time. But I guess that's what you like to do, huh?" asked Twilight as she narrowed his eyes. Junior masked his annoyed expression with a sneer.
"Well sometimes I just like to have time for myself. I mean, who wants to be pestered about what they are doing at every hour of every day like some paranoid partner in a relationship?" Junior leaned forward. Everyone began to feel the tension resurfacing in the air.
"Well maybe there is good cause for that pestering. Because that person could be acting suspicious," said Twilight as she leaned forward, her expression hardening.
"Uh guys..." Rodan nervously called.
"Or it could be a misunderstanding and that person who is suspected is actually dealing with personal issues," said Junior, his expression hardened.
"Personal issues? Like doing something considered wrong and even immoral?" asked Twilight.
"Or as I said, it's a misunderstanding. Or in fact delusion," said Junior.
"On who's end?" asked Twilight, her tone rising.
"Who do you think, short stack?" asked Junior as he raised his tone as well. Twilight growled.
"I told you not to call me that!" said Twilight. Junior sighed in exasperation.
"You're short! You're tiny! Get over it!" said Junior with a glare.
"It's demeaning!" retorted Twilight. The teens at the table grew nervous as the two argued.
"Demeaning?! Ha! That's rich," said Junior. Twilight scoffed as she looked at him in disgust.
"You're such a... You're..." Twilight's voice trembled. She gritted her teeth as her cheeks were flushed from being flustered.
"What? Go on, say it!" said Junior with a growl.
"You're such an asshole!" said Twilight, catching her friends off guard. She even drew the attention of people in the restaurant.
"Whoa! No need for that sort of language!" said Applejack. Junior scoffed.
"Ah let her say whatever she wants! Cursing never hurt anyone," said Junior.
"No, but you certainly do!" said Twilight with a glare. "You always think fighting solves everything!"
"First, I don't. Second, I defend myself. I don't normally start fights," said Junior.
"Hold on, hold on," said Adagio, interrupting the two.
"Look, I don't know what exactly is going on. But in all fairness, people do have a right to keep to themselves. It's not that alien of a thing to do. Some people just feel better keeping to themselves, like Aria. She likes to spend time by herself," said Adagio.
"Leave me out of this," said Aria with a deadpanned stare.
"But that's not just the problem! I don't even think I know you as well as I thought I did!" said Twilight as she glared at Junior.
"I mean, vigilantism? Really?" asked Twilight in disbelief. Junior sighed in exasperation.
"I'm done trying to convince you, Twilight. But because I have certain feelings on the matter, you try to make me out to be the bad guy," said Junior.
"It's not the answer! Why do you think it is justified to-" Twilight was interrupted as Junior slammed a hand on the table, startling everyone.
"Why do you think it's not justifiable? Transmutants are being murdered by cowards behind masks! What X and Night Angel have done is giving them a taste of their own medicine!" said Junior. Twilight narrowed her eyes.
"Where are your morals?" asked Twilight.
"I think my morals are fine. I just think that you're afraid to admit that the Purists are a big problem. And no one seems to understand that or even care," said Junior as Twilight trembled in her seat in a flustered state.
"Or maybe you’re afraid of something different than you to be walking among you. And that they are starting to get tired of all this bullshit. I think..." Junior was interrupted as Twilight shot out of her seat with a look of anger.
"Twilight!" called Applejack as she caught her by the shoulder. The petite girl looked her way and found a firm expression on the blonde.
"Simmer down, hun," said Applejack. Twilight merely narrowed her eyes at Junior, which began to sting.
"He has a fair point you know," said Adagio, drawing everyone's attention. She was playing with a spoon in front of her as she spoke.
"The fact of the matter is that there isn't a whole lot of intervention against the Purists. While freedom of speech is a right, it doesn't protect terrorist organizations. Which is what the Purists are," said Adagio as she twirled a spoon.
"Guys like X and the Night Angel are an expected occurrence when Transmutants feel that they aren't even being protected by their government. We're lucky that they aren't indiscriminately killing people," said Adagio.
"But two wrongs shouldn't make a right, right?" asked Rarity.
"Right. Wrong. It's all a matter of perspective in cases like this. Some people think it's wrong to go out to kill killers because it brings them down to their level. Others think that they are just ridding the world of scum who hurt others because of hate. Personally, I think these vigilantes are doing what the Equestrian government and MONARCH are avoiding to do. Calling out the Purists as what they are and handling them," said Adagio. She then looked at Twilight, who was still standing.
"It's even worse when people are afraid to say it straight. Instead they tip toe around these issues in fear of offending others, but they still hurt those that are victims of said issues by avoiding the problem. It gives a bad impression of yourself," said Adagio. Twilight looked away as she sat down. Junior glanced at Adagio in surprise at how this girl had suddenly did a 180 in her attitude. She was quite serious. The atmosphere was tense. Then, the teens noticed that some customers were looking their way. Even the waitress that was suddenly standing nearby bore a nervous smile.
"Uh... Are you kids ready to order?" asked the waitress.



It was later. Things were awkward after the whole argument between Junior and Twilight, but there was some normalcy that returned when their orders came. The girls, mainly Rarity and Pinkie Pie, were at least able to enjoy having a conversation with the Dazzlings. Junior and Twilight never spoke again, nor did they make eye contact with each other. And so, the teens began to depart after an hour. The main six left together, while the Dazzlings, the Transmutants, Erika and Sunset remained behind outside of the restaurant.
"Well, it was a pleasure meeting you girls. Hope you enjoy your stay," said Sunset with a smile as she and Erika left with a wave. Junior sighed.
"Sorry. I didn't mean to spoil the mood. I probably should've gone home," said Junior with his hands in his pockets. Mosura placed a hand on his shoulder.
"No. Look, I know you two especially butt heads after what happened, but this is good for you two. You have to learn how to be around people that you aren't exactly on good terms with," said Mosura.
"It's easier to just avoid each other," said Junior. Mosura lightly frowned.
"But then it'll never get easier," said Mosura. She then began to walk away. "I'll see you guys tomorrow at school."
"See ya," said Rodan.
"Bye," said Angirasu with a wave. As Mosura left, Junior remained silent.
"So... What's the story with you and the short girl?" asked Aria. Adagio sent her look of disapproval for prying.
"I thought we were friends. But when I gotten into trouble, she still thought that I was this terrible person even when I was proven innocent," said Junior.
"Ah. OK, now I know why you seem familiar," said Aria as she pointed at Junior.
"You're the guy that was on the news that was accused of being X," said Aria. Junior sent her a glare.
"I didn't do anything. It was a mistaken identity," said Junior. Aria crossed her arms as she looked at the other two Transmutants.
"You guys believe that?" asked Aria.
"Of course," said Angirasu. Rodan nodded in agreement.
"Yeah, Goji may hate Purists with a passion, but he's not stupid. He's already bad at a couple of his classes. You think he would be out kicking ass every night when he freaks out about his next math test?" asked Rodan. Junior merely scowled in response while it was a decent argument, to him at least, he wished it didn't bring up his academic weaknesses. It made him wish to come out and say that he had an older brother hell bent on killing Purists. He would do that in a heartbeat, but he may also risk compromising his father's group.
"Yep," said Junior. Aria shrugged.
"Alright, that's good enough for me," said Aria. The Transmutants bore looks of surprise.
"Really?" asked Angirasu.
"Sure. Besides, even if you were X, your beef is with Purists. I'm not the least bit concerned in that case," said Aria. Sonata looked at Junior suspiciously as she stepped close to him.
"You’re not X though, right?" asked Sonata.
"No," said Junior in annoyance. Sonata nervously smiled as she backed away.
"Just wanna be sure," said Sonata.
"Well, it's been fun boys. See you at school tomorrow~," sang Adagio as she and her sisters left.
"Adagio!" called Junior. Adagio looked back in curiosity.
"Uh... Thanks. It gives me some comfort to know that some people are aware and not ignoring the fact that there is a problem," said Junior with a small smile. Adagio merely smirked.
"If you need a shoulder, I got one," said Adagio as she walked with her sisters. Watching her hips moving in a hypnotic motion, Junior looked away with flushing cheeks and a scowl.
"I'm not going to cry about the problem. Ugh," said Junior with a grimace.
"Well, this has been a long day. I'll see you guys later," said Angirasu as he began to leave.
"Aight. Peace, man," said Rodan.
"Later Aang," said Junior.
"I'll see you later Goji. But one thing," said Rodan. Junior raised a brow.
"What is it?" asked Junior.
"You think I got a chance to swoon Aria?" asked Rodan. Junior raised a brow.
"You're into that kind of girl?" asked Junior in surprise.
"Hey I don't discriminate. Besides, she's cute," said Rodan. Junior rolled his eyes.
"Sure, whatever Rodan. Knock yourself out. Just don't get knocked out by her," said Junior as he walked away. Rodan looked at him in annoyance.
"How about a little support for your homie, man! Damn," said Rodan as he was left alone.



It was the late evening. Adrian found herself walking along side Impact through a cold area, one of the Purists secret bases of operations. It was an old military base that was abandoned years ago, during the cold war. Once it contained nukes within its silos, but the Equestrian government had long since cleared this base out. The nuclear missiles were still present, but their warheads were removed. All that was left were metal tubes that collected dust. But, that didn't matter to Impact since it was left open for the taking.
"Where is this place?" asked Adrian.
"Just a long way out from any civilization. As I said, the Purists have friends in high places," said Impact. Adrian looked around in shock as they walked through the facility.
"I knew that. But to think that they could just allow us to take over this facility," said Adrian.
"Well the Equestrian government has left this place to rot. Some aren't even aware about this place's existence, which means we shouldn't expect any visitors unless a nuclear war breaks out. But the world is a bit too occupied with other threats," said Impact. He then looked at Adrian with a smirk.
"You know, not everyone in our organization is aware of this place either. Only a select few get to come here," said Impact as they passed an area where men were stacking weapons and crates.
"So... Why am I here?" asked Adrian.
"That sweetheart, is a good question," said Impact. Adrian looked at him in annoyance.
"You know I hate it when you call me that," said Adrian. Impact ignored her with a smile.
"Consider this a promotion of sorts. Basically, for not squealing about where those weapons that you and the others were meant to deliver was one of the reasons. Along with your combat talents," said Impact.
"Is that really enough to qualify for being at a place this secretive?" asked Adrian.
"I kinda recommended you for a little project being cooked up," said Impact. Adrian bore a look of confusion as she tilted her head.
"Me? For what?" asked Adrian. It wasn't until now that she realized that the two were currently moving towards the control room, where two doors opened. Two armed men stood by the door as they waited for the two. Impact led Adrian inside, who found that the control room was filled with over a dozen men and women that sat at rows of desks that descended lower each row. These empty desks bore computers and laptops. At the front of the room was a large blank screen. Something that you would imagine seeing in a facility like this in science fiction films or anything that would call for a big screen that depicted global surveillance images or others. At the back of the control room, Scar was present. He turned as he found Impact and Adrian in the control room.
"Everything went well I presume?" asked Scar.
"Yes sir. Operation: Prison Break went off without a hitch," said Impact in a proud manner.
"Man, I love that show," muttered a guard by the door.
"And the Scorpion equipment?" asked Scar.
"Performed greatly. I'd like to see it take on a Revolutionary," chuckled Impact.
"In due time. Now, you must be Adrian Nightshade," said Scar as he focused on the young woman, who stiffened under his gaze.
"Y-Yes sir! Uh... I'm grateful for the rescue," said Adrian.
"It'd be a waste to let someone of your background to have been left to rot in a cell," said Scar as he pulled out an envelope.
"I mean, you have served in Equestrian military after high school. You were remarkable in hand to hand combat and a crack shot, but I have to wonder how the Night Angel bested and brand you," said Scar. Adrian felt the back of her shoulder as a chill ran up her spine. Her memory flashed to that night, where her flesh was burned by the metal.
"He was... An unknown factor. Have you heard the rumors that he has some kind of supernatural power?" asked Adrian. Impact scoffed.
"That's nonsense," said Impact. Adrian sent him a glare.
"It is not! I saw him fire lasers out of his eyes! He picked up our van without even touching it! Like he had telekinesis or something!" said Adrian.
"I believe you," said Scar, drawing Adrian's attention.
"It seems that there are more to Transmutants then we realized. Some of them have these abilities. Whether they are supernatural or not is to be debated. But it is no fantasy, and it should not be taken lightly," said Scar as he led the two out of the control room. They were currently walking through a hall.
"You have witnessed it yourself, Impact. You claimed that this Alpha of the second Transmutant terrorist group blew fire," said Scar.
"Actually, we think it may have been something else. Recently, a few of our own that was out there that day have been diagnosed with cancer," said Impact. Adrian looked at him in shock.
"Then what was it?" asked Adrian.
"Our docs are saying that they were infected with radiation poisoning. That freak is a walking radioactive hazard," said Impact. Adrian bit her lip in response.
"Damn these monsters. The world would be much better off without them," said Adrian in a bitter tone.
"With the fact that some of our enemies can do more than just change into beasts means that we need to step up our game. Which is why our employer had given us some special equipment," said Scar as he led the two through the hall until they were in another large room. Adrian's eyes widened as she saw engineers assisting the man that wore the scorpion armor out, while the tail harness was carefully removed. She spotted a man in a dark suit that was like a tight hazmat suit. On his back were metal tanks with tubes that connected to his gauntlets. His gauntlets bore sharp metal blades at the tip of each finger, which were red hot. He swung the claws against a metal pole, slicing it in half as metal became molten. The wearer then thrust his hands forward as tubes stuck out of the gauntlets, where streams of flames scorched a row of dummies.
Adrian turned and found a man wearing a suit of light armor that covered him from head to toe. The suit bore armor that almost appeared like solar panels on certain points on the arms, legs, and shoulders. The wearer's armor began to hum as slits glowed neon blue. The gauntlets glowed brighter as he raised his arms up and projected a blue shield made entirely out of light. Though transparent, it looked solid. An engineer pointed a pistol at the wearer and began to fire, but the bullets merely bounced off of the shield and struck the ground, much to Adrian's shock. The engineer nodded in approval as the wearer took down the shield.
Adrian then noticed a man sitting in a cockpit of what appeared to be some odd-looking tank. He was speaking to one of the engineers as he listened for instructions. He had his hands attached to some controls that were like gloves that bore no lever attachment to the cockpit, but then, the tank began to rise. It was then that Adrian realized that it wasn't a tank. It stood up tall in an almost humanoid stance. It was a mechanical armored suit. It bore hulking metal arms and legs, with the cockpit in the chest where the controller was exposed. The pilot began to move his arms in the cockpit, which caused the suit to follow his gestures. He then carefully knelt down and reached for a metal cube off of the ground, testing the coordination.
"What is this stuff?" asked Adrian. She felt like she was inside of a science fiction movie right now.
"The future, Ms. Nightshade. The Transmutant menace is stronger than we realized. So, I want to put together a team. I want to keep it small, but efficient in its job. And these will be their tools," said Scar. He then turned to look at Adrian.
"I want you to be a part of this team," said Scar. Adrian looked at him in surprise. Scar pointed to the other side of the room where a couple of engineers had set a full suit that bore armor on it. It bore an almost bat-like appearance, especially with the helmet.
"The Darkwing suit is reserved for you. Designed to fly via jet back and steer with carbon fiber wings that allows bat-like maneuverability. It's equipped with radar, communications, night vision, a digital visor that can zoom in for long distances. It's equipped with explosives and pistols. A mini drone for surveillance and attacking," said Scar as be stared at the suit. Adrian was at a loss for words.
"But... I'm not sure if I can even handle something like that. I've always kept my feet on the ground," said Adrian in a nervous manner.
"All of this equipment is rather new. Our employer wants us to test these for him in the field against the Transmutants. We are all learning how to use this equipment. But don't worry, he supplied us with simulators for the much more tedious equipment,” commented the man as he glanced at the mechanical suit as the pilot struggled to walk with it.
"Come on Adrian. Take the job. I'll get lonely without ya on the team. Besides, you just may show a certain freak a lesson he'll never forget," said Impact. Adrian closed her eyes. That was true. If she had equipment like this, she may be able to stand up to any Transmutant with any freakish power. She would be able to make the Night Angel suffer for what he did, along with all Transmutants. They will pay for what they had done to her. Adrian opened her eyes.
"I'm in," said Adrian in a firm tone.



It was the late evening. Genshiro was currently present in the lab inside of the GeneCo building in Canterlot. His trips always took a couple of hours to get from Ponyville to Canterlot city by train, but he was used to the travel. Since he had been called in by Discord, he was worried about the fact that he found about the rose sample that he taken, unauthorized. However, Discord merely wanted to see what he had learned with his so called, 'personal study' for improving the super soldier formula. Unfortunately, the old formula was abandoned in favor of the use of Transmutant DNA.
"I've... I've haven't been able to solve the problems of the old formula, but I have come up with a way on having the test subjects survive the process of infusing Transmutant DNA," said Genshiro as he looked to Genshiro as he handed Discord some notes, which excluded anything on his daughter. To cover the fact that he already had his hands on Takeshi’s DNA first before GeneCo was provided a sample, he lied and claimed that he also took a sample from the lab without permission. Fortunately, Discord wasn’t too upset about this along with taking a sample from the rose without informing him.
"From what I've seen, these G-cells are volatile against foreign cellular bodies. They will break down anything that isn't a part of their genetic code, such as bacteria, and even the cells of another organism. Hence the dead rats," said Genshiro as he pointed to the tanks that held the dead lab rats.
"G-cells?" asked Discord.
"You've noticed them, right? There is no sign of them in any other organism, except for Gojira Takeshi Jr.'s blood. No other Transmutant seems to have them from what we've seen. It could be something that is passed through his father's lineage. After all, the cells not only attack foreign cells, they repair damaged tissue," said Genshiro.
"No. I mean, why did you call them 'G-cells'?" asked Discord as he looked at Genshiro with a raised brow.
"Oh. Well because they were discovered inside Gojira Takeshi II, hence the G. I uh... I also thought it sounded cool," said Genshiro with an embarrassed smile.
"Hmm. Well they certainly are cool cellular bodies. G-cells it is. I thought you named them after yourself," said Discord with a chuckle.
"I thought it was more fitting of a name to tell what host they came from. I'm not one to pat myself on the back," said Genshiro. Discord nodded as he read the notes.
"Amazing. These cells can defend, repair, and destroy. If we can isolate them and ease them into foreign bodies, we can have them adapt and bond themselves to the host's genetic code with the mutagenic properties. Not only can we physically enhance humans, we can even grant them the ability to heal from nasty wounds and even regenerate! They can make the perfect soldiers and pave the way for the salvation of those suffering!" said Discord with a grin.
Even after destroying his daughter's miracle cure, there was still hope to possibly create a new one. Although it would be used to create soldiers, it would one day be developed to focus on curing the sick and dying. While he worried about Gojira Takeshi finding out, it was out of his hands since his son's DNA was in GeneCo's possession. He knew he was betraying his word, but in good conscious, Genshiro couldn't sweep this all under the rug and pretend he knew nothing. He was going to help this company develop a miracle cure that would help humanity.
"Yes. I believe that we stumbled upon something truly miraculous," said Genshiro with a smile.