The lab inside GeneCo tower was filled with its usual scientists. They strived to make advancements in genetic research. Now, a team was dedicated to the super soldier program. The use of Transmutant DNA was going to be their answer for developing enhanced soldiers. Among them, Genshiro Shiragami was guiding his team, given his knowledge on the G-cells and how to safely insert the genetic traits that gave Transmutants their strength. It has been a few days since Genshiro came back on board. And already they were making progress, though with some minor setbacks.
"We've managed to isolate the G-cells but there are still negative reactions when placed in a foreign environment," said Genshiro as Discord looked over his shoulder, looking at a tablet that played recorded footage. The footage showed a digital microscopic image of cellular bodies.
"Since they are still wired to the DNA of their host, they are instinctively driven to eliminate anything foreign. The hardest part about this process is the time it takes in depriving the cells of their original environment. Infusing them prematurely will fail to give us the desired results," said Genshiro as footage of lab mice that bore single amputated limbs. The mice were showing being injected. The footage skipped to a time lapse of the mice in their cages. Their stumps were beginning to morph and change. Certain mice regrew over-sized front legs, and collapsed in their litter, dead. Other mice grew over-sized limbs as well, but they were reptilian in appearance, bearing sharp claws, before dying as well.
"While the G-cells repaired the amputations in the subjects, the limbs were over-sized and some samples still cling to their host's genetic code, hence the reptilian limb that was generated. It seemed they were trying to transform, that unfortunately killed them in the process," said Genshiro.
"But how? Transmutants tend to survive their own transformation," said Discord.
"That is true. However, Transmutants release a chemical when in the process of transforming. It acts as some kind of pain killer, but it only lessens the pain where they won't die of shock. While the G-cells still carried the trait that causes a transformation, they weren't able to produce this chemical," said Genshiro. This was where he began to worry about Erika. Her genes were partially rewritten by her cure. No doubt the G-cells were present inside of her body, but these tests caused him to worry for the long term affects. He never had enough time to analyze the cure and its effect on human DNA when Erika was in need. He hoped that he was able to eliminate the traits that were far from desirable.
"Hmm. We don't need our subjects dying on us, nor do we need them to transform. We need to eliminate these traits and keep the ones necessary. Can I count on you?" asked Discord.
"It won't be easy. But it will be done," said Genshiro with a nod.
"Good. I'll be in my office," said Discord as he began to walk out of the lab. Genshiro and his team were left to their own devices. Discord entered his office, where he sat down upon his desk. He pulled out a tablet and began to scroll through the copy of notes that he had on the project. He then came across the footage of the recent test subjects that had died. Discord paused the footage and zoomed in on a mouse that bore a reptilian limb. It bore the same number of claws as the average mouse, but its fore leg and paw was covered in rough scales and a bit over-sized.
"Fascinating," said Discord as he placed the tablet down and made his way to the glass that revealed his office. He closed the blinds and locked the door. The doctor made his way over to a book shelf that was in the corner of the room and found a little statue of a chimera sitting on its rear. Discord touched the lion head and caused it to open like a plastic Easter egg. He pressed a small black button, which caused the shelf to slowly move inward like a door. Discord looked back and quickly entered in a dark room that the secret door revealed. The shelf returned to place behind him. The doctor walked through the dark room, where an elevator was present, wide open with a dim light. As if it were expecting him. Discord entered it and pressed a button with an arrow pointing down. The elevator doors closed, and Discord felt himself descending. He looked up and found the lights from the elevator shaft shining through the small windows above. After a minute, the elevator stopped. The doors slowly opened and revealed a great room.
Discord walked through the dark room, as the ceiling lights flicked on to life with each step that he took. He eventually came into a room that appeared like a lab. It bore tools, and all sorts of equipment. Discord smiled in approval as he saw everything in place. He then came across large glass container that bore vials, acids, chemicals, etc. But he reached for the top shelf and pulled out a small vial of red liquid. On the vial was a tag that read, Gojira Takeshi Jr., a sample of the boy's blood for himself and his own personal research. Not that anyone knew about it. With a smile, Discord made his way over to a lab table where he set the sample on a rack. A beeping sound came for his watch, prompting Discord to look at it.
"Oops! I almost forgot," said Discord as he made his way over to a door, where it slid open. He found himself walking through a hall with dim lighting. He turned to the side and found a cell with a wall of thick glass. Inside, he found a monkey sitting on the ground, while it threw a little soccer ball around. Discord reached into a bag at his side and pulled out a bowl of sliced fruit. He stuffed the vial into his coat pocket and pulled out a tray connected to the cell and placed the bowl inside.
"Lunch time, Moana," said Discord as he pushed the tray, exposing the fruit to the monkey in its cell. The little mammal rushed towards the tray and began to stick her paws in the bowl and pulling out the fruit. Discord merely smiled as he watched the primate feed.
"You and I are gonna change the world, my friend," said Discord. The monkey then screeched in fright as the sound of something hitting the glass filled the air. Discord turned and found a creature in the cell behind him. However, it was completely unnatural in appearance. It appeared as a dog, but its skin sagged and its body was bald. It also was anatomically different compared to normal dogs, as it bore a cross between human and dog anatomy. Its paws appeared like they were hardly developed, while also trying to take on a human hand's structure. The creature whined as its throat made loud grunts. Discord smiled as he stood up and pulled out a plastic bag filled with raw meat. He opened the tray to its cell and poured the contents into the tray and pushed it back into the cage.
"Enjoy. You may not be a success on my project, but I've certainly learned a lot," said Discord. The dog grunted as it lumbered on all fours to the food and began to eat, while dropping some bits on the floor. The dog began to hack as it coughed up a wad of mucus before resuming its meal. Discord sighed as he turned to the monkey in its cell that looked frightened.
"Don't mind Bruno, Moana. He's just born that way. You're going to help me succeed in my research. And Gojira Takeshi is the answer," said Discord with a smile as he left the room. The monkey watched as the abomination across from her continued to eat, making grotesque sounds.
During lunch, Junior was sitting at his usual spot in the cafeteria with Rodan and Angirasu, having their usual lunch. The Dazzlings were at another table today crowded by their adoring fans, much to Aria's dismay. Meanwhile, Erika sat with Sunset, Mosura and the girls at a separate table. Fluttershy was glancing at Junior from her table as he ate. She wasn't paying attention to the conversation going on.
"Hey, is it me or did your eyes change?" asked Rainbow in curiosity as she picked at her lunch with a fork. Erika slightly stiffened as the girls had their attention on her.
"Hey, now that you mention it, they do look like a different shade of green," said Rarity as she held a hand under her chin. Erika looked away as Sunset bore a look of curiosity. Her heart sank as Sunset was looking right at her.
"Oh. Y-Yeah. I'm wearing contacts! I wanted to see how they would look on me," said Erika with a laugh. Junior glanced behind himself as he heard their conversation, just before Fluttershy could quickly look away in embarrassment.
"I never took you for a girl to wear contacts," said Sunset in surprise. Erika shrugged.
"Just... Trying something new," said Erika with a smile.
"Well they look pretty!" said Pinkie with a smile.
"Aw thanks. I think I may keep them," said Erika with a smile as she finished her lunch. Her stomach still ached as if what she had consumed wasn't enough. She then found Rainbow picking at her meatloaf with a fork as she grimaced.
"Are you going to eat that?" asked Erika. Rainbow merely shook her head as she pushed her tray forward and allowed Erika to take the tray. Junior turned back around with a small sigh.
It was after school. Erika was walking alongside Sunset through the hallway.
"So, you're down for a study session at the cafe, right?" asked Sunset. Erika nodded.
"Absolutely! I've come this far. No way am I going to flunk Junior year," said Erika. Sunset chuckled.
"We're not that far into the year yet. Alright, I'll meet you there with Twi and Rarity!" said Sunset as she rushed through the hall. Erika merely waved to her. As she continued down the hall on her own, she came by a set of lockers.
"Erika," called a familiar voice. Erika jumped in surprise as she quickly turned. She found Junior leaning against a locker with his arms crossed.
"Gojira. What's up?" asked Erika.
"Contacts? Really?" asked Junior. Erika's eyes slightly widened in realization. Junior sighed as he got off the locker.
"You're not going to tell her?" asked Junior.
"I... Yeah. No. I-I don't..." Erika looked away with a look of uncertainty.
"I mean... She doesn't really have to know. I'm cured. There's no reason to, right?" asked Erika.
"But you just lied to her," said Junior. Erika sent him a glare.
"So, I lied! It's not like you're any more honest yourself!" said Erika as she raised her tone. Junior recoiled in surprise. Erika cupped a hand over her mouth with a look of horror at what she had said.
"Oh God. I'm sorry, I didn't..." Erika bit her lip as bore an apologetic look.
"It's fine. I guess it's not really my place to say anything," said Junior as he scratched his head.
"Look. I didn't mean to make it seem like I'm judging you. I just thought that it would clear your conscience if you told Sunset the truth. You told me yourself how much it tore you up inside to keep your condition a secret from her," said Junior as he placed his hands in his pockets. Erika softly frowned.
"But that's the problem. I'm afraid to tell her. I don't know how she'll react that I as her best friend never told her that I was dying. What if she'll be angry with me? Or worse," said Erika as she rubbed her arm.
"Maybe she'll be upset with you at first. But tell her why you didn't want to tell her. Maybe she'll understand," said Junior. Erika sighed.
"I... I'll find the right time to tell her. I promise," said Erika. Junior nodded.
"Sure. Now get going so you won't be late," said Junior. Erika was about to leave but looked back to the Transmutant.
"Wanna come along? Maybe we can help you with some homework or any upcoming tests," said Erika. Junior shook his head.
"No thanks. I appreciate the invite, but I rather not come anywhere near Twilight or Rarity. The greet-and-meet with the Dazzlings was already too much," said Junior. Erika frowned in response.
"Alright. See you tomorrow," said Erika as she walked away. Junior sighed to himself as he walked back down the hall. He eventually found Angirasu standing by his locker as Sonata stood before him with her hands behind her back. Junior raised a brow as she looked as though she was fidgeting in place.
"Hey sexy~," sang a seductive voice. Junior's eyes widened as he turned and found Adagio with a smoldering look in her eyes. She began to laugh at Junior's shocked reaction while Aria and Rodan stood by snickering.
"See? It's funny every time! He's too shy around the ladies," laughed Rodan. Junior scowled in annoyance as he grinded his teeth.
"I wouldn't react this way if I was greeted normally," said Junior as he fully faced the three.
"So, what's up?" asked Junior.
"We're going to be heading over to the theater to see that new action movie that came out!" said Rodan.
"The one with the mercenaries that composes of eighties action hero actors?" asked Junior.
"That one! Sonata is inviting Angirasu. Wanna come along?" asked Adagio.
"Ah. Sorry, I actually need to get home. I have homework to do," said Junior, though he suspected that they did as well. They were more likely confident enough to be finished on time. Something that Junior didn't like to take chances on.
"Aw. Not even for little ol' me?" asked Adagio with a mock pout. Junior rolled his eyes. “One thing you gotta know about me, Adagio. I never put down homework for anyone," said Junior.
"Foo. And here I thought my womanly wiles would change your mind. I'll just have to try harder next time," said Adagio with a smirk. Junior backed away with a forced smile.
"I'd rather you didn't," said Junior as he walked away.
"Let me know how the movie is. My mom is a huge fan of those actors and their movies," said Junior. He remembered his mother having him sit down and watch some of the movies with her when he was younger. Some of the movies may have been dated in certain areas like special effects, but he always had an appreciation for old school.
As Junior left, Sonata came by with Angirasu. She smiled giddily as she stood beside him as Angirasu watched Junior leave.
"He said no?" asked Angirasu.
"Yep. But his lost! Ain't that right, Arie?" asked Rodan as he leaned against the wall as he bore a suave tone. Aria merely held her arms crossed with a look of annoyance. Adagio merely smirked in amusement at Rodan's attempt to flirt with her sister.
Later
As Erika sat beside Sunset and across from Rarity and Twilight at a booth in a cafe, the group had set up a station of utensils, scratch paper and notes. They all continued to review what they had for one of the few subjects that were dedicating this study session to.
"Ugh. Hey, how do you solve for this? I remember the formula but I can't seem to get the correct answer," said Rarity with a pout. Twilight scooted over to her side as she looked over her paper.
"Ah. Rarity, you have the method down, but you forgot to carry on that negative five from the quotient. You ended up adding up to a positive number when it was meant to remain a negative. Fix that, and you'll be able to come up with the solution," said Twilight as she began to point at the equation.
"I see. Thank you, Twilight! Whatever would I do without you?" Rarity began to erase half of the work she had done to correct the problem.
"Hey, the musical showcase is close. Are you girls going to be in it?" asked Erika in curiosity.
"Oh. I don't know. I mean, we never really discussed it," said Twilight as she glanced at Rarity.
"Oh! If we were, I would have to prepare the most fabulous outfits for us!" said Rarity with gleaming eyes. Erika nudged Sunset.
"You're going to at least, right? You know how to play the guitar," said Erika. Twilight looked at Sunset in surprise.
"You can play the guitar?" asked Twilight.
"Yep. Flash taught me..." Sunset's voice trailed off as she mentioned her ex's name. Her heart sank while the girls bore looks of sympathy.
"Oh. I'm sorry, I-" Twilight lowered her head in an apologetic tone.
"It's alright. I guess I'm still not use to it," said Sunset with a weak smile. She went on with her own notes, but then looked up to Twilight.
"Hey, Twilight," called Sunset.
"Yes?" answered Twilight.
"About... About what Gojira said..." Twilight slightly stiffened as she stopped writing.
"What about him?" asked Twilight in a cold tone. Sunset slightly tensed at her change of tone, feeling that she may be treading on thin ice.
"About how he said that you uh... Being afraid of something stronger than you or..." Sunset stopped, not even sure what else the Transmutant was going to say that day. But she had a few guesses.
"What about what he said?" asked Twilight.
"You were pretty upset when he was about to say something else. Is there any truth to what he said?" asked Sunset. Twilight shook her head.
"What does it matter? He's just trying to push my buttons," said Twilight in annoyance.
"Twi, it's OK. Just be honest," said Sunset in a soft tone. Twilight sent her glare.
"I'm not racist towards Transmutants!" said Twilight in a raised tone, startling everyone at the booth. Twilight shook as she remained in a flustered state. She looked down at her lap as she held her hands down on them.
"I can't believe he was accusing me of that," muttered Twilight.
"Twilight, I don't think it's just that. I believe what you say. But I can't help but feel there is a little bit of truth in there. He struck home for you Twilight, you can't deny that," said Sunset.
"It's not that I'm afraid of Transmutants being stronger than me. I'm not even really afraid of them," said Twilight, drawing the girls' attention.
"I'm afraid of him," said Twilight in a small tone. Erika's eyes widened in surprise.
"Him? But... You don't have to be afraid of him. You've gotten to know him before," said Erika.
"He's been keeping something from us. Don't you understand that? First, he goes missing with a bogus excuse. Next thing we know he's on camera attacking Purists. When he found out that Flash filmed him, he attacked him. I'm afraid of who he really is and that he's always walking among us," said Twilight.
"Twilight, that wasn't him," said Sunset as she narrowed her eyes.
"I wish I could believe that. But really, I can't. Not when he's been this dishonest. I can't even imagine who else would look like him," said Twilight. She then held her shoulders.
"I felt like he was trying to mock me. He knows that I'm afraid. I just... I don't want to talk about this anymore," said Twilight. Sunset sighed heavily in response.
"Alright. I'm sorry," said Sunset. Just then, a hostess arrived carrying plates of food.
"Alright ladies! I got your 'Paradise Salad', your roast beef sandwich with a side of fries, a burrito supreme, and a breakfast plate of eggs, pancakes and sausage," said the hostess. The girls began to clear off the table. Rarity was handed the salad, Sunset was passed the burrito, Twilight the breakfast plate, and Erika the roast beef sandwich. As the hostess left, the girls began to dig in.
"Is it weird that I ordered a breakfast meal during the afternoon?" asked Twilight in worry.
"Nah. I do it sometimes too," said Sunset.
"Sometimes I order lunch meals during breakfast,” said Erika with a laugh. Her mouth watered as she picked up the delicious smell of the beef and fries. Her taste buds exploded with flavor.
"Mm. Mm! Mm!" Erika hummed as she chewed her first bite of her sandwich. She received odd stares from the others. Erika sheepishly smiled with red cheeks.
"Sorry. It's really good," said Erika. She can't recall of eating anything with this much flavor. The juices in the beef drew her into ecstasy from such a delicious meal.
Later the girls were through with their food. The hostess had taken their plates as they brought back up their work onto the table. As they went back to studying, Erika still had traces of flavor from her order in her mouth. She smiled to herself as she recalled the meal. The cook deserved a raise for the job that he did. Whatever it was, it really brought the flavor out. Then, Erika felt her stomach growl again. She held a hand to her stomach. She then turned and found their hostess walking by.
"Um excuse me! Is it alright if I order something else?" asked Erika. The girls looked at her in surprise.
"Darling, you just ate! Are you still hungry?" asked Rarity.
"No, this is for my dad. He comes home late and I may not have time to cook tonight," said Erika.
"What'll it be?" asked the hostess.
"Your sirloin steak special. Make it rare," said Erika with a sudden serious tone.
"Alright," said the hostess.
"And a bacon cheese burger!" said Erika. The girls looked at her in shock.
"What? It's mine for later," said Erika.
"Ooookay," responded Twilight as she and the others went back to work.
Aria was standing by the wall of the movie theater as she wore a sweater. She wore a hood that was pulled over her face and hid her hair. Instead of her common jeans and boots, she wore a pair of sweat pants and tennis shoes. She glanced all around herself, finding crowds of people in line to get their movie tickets for whatever was showing. Aria sighed as she held her hands in her pocket. She found Rodan, Angirasu, and her sisters making their way over to her. The girls bore the same kind of sweat clothes as well.
"Bout time," said Aria as Adagio handed her a ticket.
"Alright, Ms. Impatient. Let's go inside," said Adagio. As the group entered the theater, they were greeted by the smell of hot popcorn and other hot foods from the snack bar. The lobby was filled with movie goers that stood in line for the snack bar, while some were in the mini arcade passing time. The lobby was filled with cardboard advertising of upcoming films.
"We're going to get a good seat. Can you and Rodan grab some snacks?" asked Adagio. Aria sighed.
"Fine," said Aria. She found herself by Rodan in line as they waited for their turn to order. Rodan glanced her way and found a sour expression on her face.
"Something wrong?" asked Rodan.
"Yeah. There's too many damn people here," said Aria with a scowl.
"Yeah, and it’s not even Friday yet," said Rodan with a chuckle. He then looked at the apparel that the girl was wearing.
"So, what's with the outfit? Doesn't seem your style," said Rodan.
"Obviously, I don't want to be recognized," said Aria with a deadpanned stare.
"Why not? I'd be happy if people recognized me for my talents!" said Rodan. Aria rolled her eyes.
"Hmph. You say that, but you wouldn't understand how much of a pain it is," said Aria. As she crossed her arms.
"How so? You're living it big! Plus, you seem to have got it together," said Rodan.
"I rather be living it normal. Ah you wouldn't understand," scoffed Aria as she looked away with a hard expression.
"Arie?" called Rodan. Aria sent him a glare.
"Don't call me that!" said Aria. Rodan recoiled as he raised his hands in a defensive manner.
"It's just a nick name. I call everyone that I think are cool by one. You don't like it?" asked Rodan in confusion.
"Shut up. Shut your mouth. Don't call me that ever again," said Aria with a glare as she grabbed Rodan by the collar. Rodan merely bore a neutral expression.
"You know, you're cute when you’re upset," said Rodan with a smile. Aria scoffed in annoyance as she shoved Rodan away.
"Creep," said Aria as she went back to waiting. Rodan adjusted his collar as he looked at Aria with a raised brow. Aria merely fumed to herself, caused by the crimson haired boy that she was stuck with. Her scowl was tight on her face, her muscles in her face refused to loosen.
It was the early evening. Erika was at home sitting at the table, placing down the boxes that were filled with the food that she ordered from the cafe. Her stomach growled as she took out the sirloin steak special alongside the bacon cheese burger. She immediately went for the steak and proceeded to eat it. She moaned as the juicy flavor danced in her mouth. The buttery explosion of favor caused her to quickly tear through the meat and to quickly eat it. After a few short minutes, Erika was through with the steak. As she wiped her face and threw the empty box away, she was about to leave the kitchen, but she stopped as she felt an ache in her stomach. Erika turned back to the kitchen and found the last box that was on the table. Erika shook her head as she left the kitchen and turned off the light. The bacon cheese burger was left alone on the table in the darkness. Suddenly, footsteps rushed into the kitchen and the box was snatched off the table.
Later, Erika found herself lying on her bed in her pajamas. A look of worry was plastered on her face. She had eaten quite a bit of food today. She normally didn't eat this much, but she was just so hungry. Now, she was finally satisfied with what she had eaten. But now her concern was that she would get fat from all the meat she had stuffed herself with. Erika yawned as she turned off her light and drifted off to sleep. ln the dark night, Erika felt something brush against her toes. She shot up and looked around. Nothing was present with her. Erika's heart had jumped that she thought someone was in the room with her. She lied back down and felt something slither over her arm. Erika gasped as she pulled her arm back and pulled away her blanket. She heard the sound of hissing in the air, causing Erika to tense as she pulled her legs up close and curled into a ball in her blanket.
"Dad?" called Erika, almost whimpering. She suddenly felt something over her waist that slithered over her. Erika quickly threw off her blanket and was shocked to find several green serpents coiling around her. The serpents were large, about the size of her arm in mass, but their lengths extended down to the floor. They were eye less creatures, with wide heads and mouths that were filled with razor sharp teeth that dripped with slime. Erika began to scream in terror as the snakes constricted against her and slithered up to her face. One of them opened its jaws wide and lunged for her face.
Erika suddenly shot up from her bed. She panted as her heart raced in her chest. Her body was slightly covered in sweat. Erika quickly took off her blanket, finding nothing on her lap. She then looked over the edges of her bed, finding only a backpack and her floor. Erika shuddered as she curled into her bed with her blanket, shaking with fright from her dream.
Adrian Nightshade lied on her back as she was strapped to a board that was built on hydraulics and gears. Her arms were splayed out as motion capture gloves were worn by her. On her face was a visor that was connected to a computer wirelessly. She found herself in a digital world as she felt her body rising. She found herself soaring through the air of a village while her body in real life was being carried up by the board and began to mimic her motion in the simulator.
She found herself flying over simulated men with guns. They fired at her, but she merely flew past them. She made a sharp turn and raised her feet in the simulator, which were covered in armored boots. The boots bore metal claw like spikes that impaled one of the enemies and she carried him off into the air. When she was high enough, she dropped the man. Adrian flapped her arms like wings to descend back down. She unclenched her hands, as if releasing handles. She then reached for her hips and drew out two hand guns that bore automatic firing mechanisms and large clips. She soared down to her enemies and fired her pistols, taking them down. Adrian placed her pistols away as she came closer to the ground, where she thrusted her body up and brought her feet onto the ground. The spikes stuck into the ground as she felt a rocket burst attempting to take her back off the ground. She looked to her side and found digitized carbon fiber wings with a bat-like appearance. The wings began to fold and retract, as her jet back stopped running. Adrian raised one foot as the metal claws retracted against her boot, allowing her sole to touch the ground.
As the simulation ended, Adrian pulled off the headset as she blinked her eyes that were hazy for staring at a screen so closely. She found herself standing upward on the board that had set her down in this standing position. She sighed as a couple of engineers helped unstrap her from the board and took the motion capture gloves and straps and the virtual reality headset. Adrian stepped away from the machine that she was strapped to, where a large metal arm was holding the board up. She turned and found Impact standing in the doorway of the room.
"How you feeling?" asked Impact.
"Dizzy," said Adrian with a deadpanned stare.
"You'll get used to it. Soon you'll be passing the simulator with flying colors. You always wanted to fly, right?" asked Impact.
"To Prance, not as a bat woman," said Adrian as she gestured to the armored bat-like suit in the corner of the room. "How the hell did you guys even get that thing right there?" asked Adrian.
"The simulator came with the suit, but we had to design the environmental control from scratch with provided blue prints. And by we, I mean our hard-working engineers," said Impact as he looked at a woman that was setting the simulator why. She smiled in approval as she went back to work.
"So, when do I get to go out in the field with the flight suit?" asked Adrian.
"Well first you gotta work on your landing. If you can't be quick about transitioning from air to land quick enough, you'll be taken out. Plus, there's the gadgets you need to learn how to use. We can't have you dying because of a lack of understanding of the tech. These things are expensive prototypes. These aren't even ours," said Impact.
"Ugh. Alright. So, what's gonna be the first job we do with these things?" asked Adrian.
"Oh. I'm already doing jobs with the guy in the scorpion suit. Not much of a talker, that one," said Impact with a chuckle. Adrian merely scowled in annoyance.
"Don't worry. Besides, you aren't the only being made to practice how to use this tech. Just keep at it and you'll be helping us in this fight in no time," said Impact. Adrian sighed as he left her in the room.
"Great. If I get back on that thing I'm gonna hurl," said Adrian with a grimace.
During the early morning, Erika was sitting at home in the kitchen with a large bowl filled to the brim with cereal. She slowly began to eat as the television played in the living room, which was clear in her sight. She was watching the weather report for the rest of the week, while her father arrived into the kitchen as he adjusted his clothes.
"Good morning, sweetheart," said Genshiro as he poured himself a bowl.
"Morning," said Erika as she slowly ate. Her nightmare from last night still stuck with her. It felt so real to her. She thought that perhaps her diet of the day had caused her to have such a dream. Genshiro took a seat across from her.
"How are you feeling?" asked Genshiro.
"Fine. Just a little tired," said Erika.
"Oh?" asked Genshiro in slight concern. Erika shook her head.
"I just had a bad dream last night. It's nothing to worry about," said Erika. Genshiro nodded in relief.
"That's good. What was your dream about?" asked Genshiro.
“Snakes. Like anacondas or something," said Erika.
"Ah. That must have been frightening," said Genshiro. Erika looked to the television and saw a news report that showed footage of the GeneCo tower in Canterlot.
"GeneCo, a company leading progress to genetic research, has released their next product on the market," said a woman on the television. The footage switched to men in scrubs in an operating room in a hospital, pulling out an object that was in the shape of a heart but with metal bits and synthetic valves, with a red flexible sac making up the pump.
"Artificial organs are GeneCo's next big product. Without having to rely on a donor with a matching blood type for a new heart or kidney, GeneCo's organs serve as an immediate replacement," said a woman that was speaking on the television.
"We have Dr. John Discord, the head of the company with us," said a man as the news switched to a room where Discord was seen sitting by.
"Doctor, tell us. What is it that your company's product set's itself apart from common artificial hearts?" asked the interviewer. Discord smiled as he brought over a container onto his lap and drew out an artificial heart.
"Well our product behaves a lot more like an actual heart. The synthetic sac draws in and pumps out blood, beating like an actual heart. It's much more robust, with a less chance of bleeding compared to past artificial hearts. And rather than running on power from an external source or a battery, the heart relies on the nervous system to generate power," said Discord. His mechanical arm portrayed a holographic image of a human body with its nervous system exposed.
"You see, organisms with a nervous system like ours are pretty much like living batteries. Our nerves send electric signals through our bodies to help us function. What our product does is responds to these electric signals and functions like a real heart," said Discord.
"Wow! So instead of batteries not included, it's batteries not needed?" asked the interviewer.
"Correct. They function the same way as our cybernetic technology, which surpasses mind controlled cybernetic arms, but we didn't just stop there," said Discord as he displayed a different hologram. Several different artificial organs were displayed, appearing as the originals that they were based on but with mechanized parts and synthetic sacs and coverings.
"Lungs, livers, stomachs, and eyes! Anything you need can be provided by GeneCo if you can't wait to get a transplant! Why with one artificial eye, you can see out of both eyes again! We would like to help the blind to see once again," said Discord.
"Yes. You know, my younger brother was an amputee. He was a track runner. But thanks to your company, he is able to walk on two legs again because of your cybernetic technology!" said the interviewer.
"I'm happy that we have been able to help. My goal is for GeneCo to help as many as possible. Be they sick, dying, or even disabled. I like to think of us as the biblical modern day Christ," said Discord. Erika merely scoffed in response.
"Well thank you for coming by. I look forward to see what else GeneCo has to offer in the future," said the interviewer. Discord merely smirked.
"Oh, we're planning big things," said Discord. As the news wrapped up, Erika shook her head.
"Sheesh. 'The modern-day Christ'? That's pretty arrogant," said Erika as she ate her cereal.
"Dear, he's just helping people out," said Genshiro.
"Dad, you know how GeneCo has been rumored to have been involved with cross species experiments. That's just immoral. They're trying to play God," said Erika.
"Cross species projects are internationally illegal. Those are just rumors, Erika. I've worked at GeneCo for years and I have never seen anything of the sort," said Genshiro. "Besides, if it wasn't for GeneCo, you wouldn't have been cured," said Genshiro. Erika shook her head.
"No. You cured me, dad. Don't give your job credit, because you worked alone," said Erika. Genshiro looked away. Technically it was true that he did the work by himself, but it was GeneCo that bore the prehistoric plant that he used for the cure, along with a blood sample from Gojira Takeshi.
"The point is Erika, if it's so wrong to exploit the human gene for our own greater good, why has God given us the template? We've learned a lot of great things through learning about DNA. We can cure diseases with that knowledge, we can improve ourselves! Is that so wrong?" asked Genshiro. Erika sighed.
"Dad, it's not that I disagree with studying our own bodies and our world. But sometimes, I think it's best not to tamper with something to try to make something better when it already works. It may cause more harm than good," said Erika. Genshiro merely patted her hand.
"That's why I as a scientist must follow the basic principles of research to bring out the best results," said Genshiro as he finished his cereal. He stood up and made his way over to Erika and kissed her forehead.
"I'll see you tonight. Goodbye," said Genshiro as he rushed out of the kitchen. Erika merely sighed as she finished her own bowl and began to place the dishes in the sink. The television played a commercial, where a man was seen lying in bed in a tent as he bore bandages over his missing arm.
"Every day, our soldiers suffer from the battles they fight. Some are unable to return to the field, to fight for their country." a male voice narrated as a soldier was solemnly sitting down with his amputation, but then a woman in coat placed a hand on his shoulder with a warm smile.
"But thanks to GeneCo, our soldiers can go back out there, able to defend us all from any threat," said the man as the scene transitioned to the soldier sitting down on a bed without his shirt on, his amputation now bearing a chrome cybernetic arm, with the GeneCo logo on the back of the hand. The arm made a small whir as parts beneath the gaps could be seen shifting. The scene then transitioned to the recovered soldier firing with a rifle at a shooting range. As he ran out of ammo, he tossed the gun to the ground and held his cybernetic arm out as its parts began to shift.
"And they may have extra fire power," said the narrator. The soldier's arm then revealed muzzle barrels, which began to fire at the target. The soldier smirked as he blew the smoking barrels. The scene transitioned to a man with scars over his brows and cheeks.
"I was blinded on the battlefield. I was afraid that I wouldn't be able to see the faces of my family ever again. But thanks to GeneCo's cybernetic eyes, I can see again. This time several times better and at longer distances," said the soldier. Another soldier was shown sitting on a chair as his pants were rolled up, exposing cybernetic legs.
"I was left handicapped after surviving an explosion. But thanks to GeneCo, I can walk again," said the soldier as he knocked on his metal shin. The television displayed the logo of the company.
"GeneCo. Helping humanity reach its full potential," said the narrator. Erika turned off the television with a sigh.
"Yeah, just don't go crazy with your research," said Erika with a scowl. She took her back pack and walked out of her home. Erika was walking down the side walk in silence as she passed a few people. Her shoulders began to ache, prompting Erika to rub them as she walked.
"Ugh. I must have slept wrong," said Erika. Just what she needed, aching shoulders to distract her during class. The girl continued on until she came across a dog. The dog began to bark at her as it bared its teeth. Erika flinched in fright as the dog looked as though it was ready to attack.
"Nice doggy. Good boy. God, where's Fluttershy when I need her?" asked Erika as she took a step back. The dog continued to growl and bark at her as it came closer. Erika gritted her teeth as she was beginning to feel panic. Her mind raced as this large dog threatened her. Erika's eyes dilated and her muscles tensed.
"Gragh! Raghhh!" Erika suddenly snarled at the dog like a beast as her eyes glared at the dog. The dog whimpered in response at the frightening sound and suddenly picked up a stench. The dog whined as it began to run away, while Erika growled. Her eyes suddenly returned to normal. She shook her head of its disorientation and found the dog nowhere in sight.
"Huh. Where did he go. Ugh, my head. What happened?" asked Erika in confusion. She shook off the thought and continued to school. As she entered inside, she was greeted with the many students that roamed the hall. As she traveled down the hall, she found Junior and Fluttershy by each other as the Transmutant dug through his locker.
"Gojira, Fluttershy! Morning!" greeted Erika. The two turned their attention to her.
"Oh. Morning," greeted Junior while Fluttershy smiled and waved.
"Study session went well?" asked Junior.
"Absolutely! Sunset and Twilight are geniuses!" said Erika. She then gasped.
"Oh! I almost forgot! Sunset wanted me to give you a copy of her notes for Algebra," said Erika as she reached into her bag and pulled out a notebook.
"Oh, she didn't have to do that. I said that I would study on my own," said Junior.
"Yeah, but she said that you were struggling at this subject and wanted to help. Come on, don't look a gift horse in the mouth," said Erika. Junior glanced at Fluttershy, who smiled with a nod.
"Alright, I'll borrow it. Do you need me to give back the book when I'm done?" asked Junior as he stepped closer to Erika to take the book. But suddenly, he picked up a foul stench. His nose itched and he nearly gagged. He wondered where this awful smell came from.
"Yeah, just hand it to Sunset when you’re done. She’ll give it to me the next time she sees me in class," replied Erika. It was then that Junior could pinpoint the smell. It was Erika.
"Oh. Um... Hey, is that a new perfume or something on you?" asked Junior with a forced smile. Erika looked at him in confusion.
"Huh?"
"You uh... You smell... Different," said Junior, struggling how to politely bring up her stench. Erika raised a brow. She sniffed her coat but found nothing.
"I don't..."
"You do smell lovely!" said Fluttershy with a smile. Junior merely looked at her in shock.
"Could you tell me where you got that smell from? It's like roses," said Fluttershy.
"Roses?" asked Junior and Erika in unison.
"Wait, I have no idea what you're talking about," said Erika. The bell suddenly rang, causing her to gasp.
"Oh! Gotta go! Class will start soon!" said Erika as she rushed down the hall. Junior merely looked at Fluttershy.
"Roses?" asked Junior. Fluttershy looked at him with a raised brow.
"What?" asked Fluttershy.
"Shy, she smelled awful," said Junior. Fluttershy's eyes widened.
"But you just said-"
"I lied! I felt sick to my stomach being close to her!" said Junior. Fluttershy took on an appalled look. She then looked at Junior in disapproval.
"Goji, that's rude! Hmph!" Fluttershy stuck her nose in the air as she left the Transmutant, who bore a look of disbelief.
"What?" asked Junior