//------------------------------// // Chapter 43: Showcase // Story: Shy and Aggressive // by Johng117 //------------------------------// It was just the late noon. The Dazzlings were currently sitting together watching a television show of a group of survivors fighting off a zombie hoard. The show was taking place in a post-apocalyptic southern region. The show cut to a commercial break during a cliff hanger. "Man, the guy with the crossbow is so hawt!" said Sonata with a giggle. She held her flushing cheeks. "I wonder what Angirasu would look like if he were to cosplay him." "Hey, I just realized that baby might not even be the sheriff’s since his wife slept with his friend when he was unconscious in the hospital," said Adagio. Aria scoffed. "This show is fucked up," said Aria as she began to change the channel. "Hey! The show isn't over yet!" whined Sonata. "Relax. I'm just surfing the channels until it comes back on," said Aria as she flipped through the channels. She then came across a channel discussing celebrities. "Stop here!" said Adagio. Aria stopped flipping through channels. The show was showing a montage of images of a girl with brunette hair. "You all may be familiar with Dwan. The 19 year old model for multiple clothing brands, rival to the Dazzlings, and rising actress who previously played the lead role of the monster horror film, 'Bloody Jungle'," narrated a woman on the television. Sonata perked up. "Hey! Dwan! I wonder how she's been during our break," said Sonata. "Probably starring in mediocre films that are only praised for sexual exploitation," said Aria with a smirk. "Hey, she was lucky to have been in that film. Did you see that actress that played the jungle girl that her character slept with? Damn I would've killed for that role," said Adagio with a whistle. Aria scoffed. "Dagi, weren't you offered a role in a film?" asked Sonata with a raised brow. "Yes. But when we announced that we were taking a break, they decided to go with Dwan," said Adagio in a sour tone. The girls directed their attention to the television, where images of Dwan on stage posing as she wore a dress. "During this year, Dwan was given a role in an upcoming film that has just been announced to have been cancelled. Due to the young star going missing along with the cast and a number of the crew during shooting on a yacht just near the Tartarus Rectangle," said the voice from the TV. The girls looked on in shock. The scene changed to showing the producers to have been standing before a news crew. "We recovered what was left by the crew and found that the yacht was caught in a terrible storm. We are deeply saddened by the loss of Dwan and the rest of the cast and crew. Because of this, we have no choice but to cancel the film," said a Producer. "Oh," said Sonata as she slumped her shoulders. Aria glanced at Adagio, who bore a look of shock. "Hm. Good thing you didn't get the role after all," said Aria. "She's actually dead?" asked Adagio in disbelief. It was the next day, during noon. Adagio sat in the cafeteria with her head propped up as she stared off into space. With her were her sisters, the Transmutant Four and Eliza. "Seriously? She's dead?" asked Rodan in shock. Sonata nodded. "Yeah. We just found out yesterday on TV. Their yacht got caught in a storm in the Tartarus Square during filming," said Sonata. Mosura grimaced. "Yikes. Sounds like a premise to a horror film," said Mosura. Junior was looking through his phone next to her. "Isn't Dwan that model who was in that Bloody Jungle film?" asked Junior. Angirasu nodded to him. "Yeah. Sonata and I actually went to go see it one time," said Angirasu. Junior snorted. "A shame. I wouldn't be able to stand watching her ass do what she would call, 'acting'," said Junior. Eliza looked at him curiously. "Is she a bad actress?" asked Eliza. "She was awful! She's blander than white rice, and she's only good for eye candy," said Junior. "Oh come on. She can't be that bad," said Mosura. "No, he's right. She should've stuck to modeling," said Aria. "As if any of that matters now," said Sonata in a sad tone. Aria scoffed. "Oh come on. Why are you getting all emotional? You weren't even friends with her," said Aria. "I know, but still. It's kinda sad, you know?" replied Sonata. Adagio sighed to herself as she propped her head up. "You alright, Dagi?" called Sonata. Adagio came out of her blank state of mind and looked to her sister. "Hmm? Oh, yeah I'm fine. Tragic about Dwan. I guess I'm still just trying to process it," said Adagio. "Oh. Was she a friend of yours?" asked Mosura with a sympathetic look. Adagio snorted. "Hardly. We were rivals. She always tried to outdo me in everything, from music to beauty and even my charm," said Adagio as she brushed her fingers through her hair. Mosura looked at her in surprise. "Oh," said Mosura. Junior grimaced. "So she was essentially a 2.0 version of you," said Junior. Adagio gave him an offended look. "Heeey! There is no girl like me, but me!" said Adagio as she crossed her arms with a huff. "The two have a big ego and are notoriously known for their looks and flirting, but at least Adagio isn't such a fucking cunt like Dwan was," said Aria. Sonata looked at her sister in disapproval. "Arie, that's rude! She's not even here anymore!" said Sonata. Aria shrugged. "Hey, I'm just keeping it real," said Aria in a nonchalant manner. Adagio groaned. "I remember how we competed during beauty contests. Whenever she won, she would just brag about how the media loved her more and the dresses that she was put in. Ugh, talk about a big head," said Adagio with a growl and furrowed brows. She then noticed the Transmutants to be staring at her, surprised to see her so bent out of shape. Adagio cleared her throat as she looked to the Transmutants with a smile. "So, how's rehearsal going for the showcase?" asked Adagio. "Going better! We managed to get Goji and Aang used to the instruments, and Mosu and I memorized all of the lyrics to the song we’re. Just in time for tomorrow," said Rodan with a grin. "Cool! I bet you guys are gonna sound great!" said Sonata. Angirasu sighed worriedly. "Oh, it's gonna be something," said Angirasu halfheartedly. The Dazzlings looked at him in confusion for his tone. It was later into the day. Erika was walking alongside Sunset Shimmer home from school. "So, you excited to see the musical showcase?" asked Sunset. Erika nodded in eagerness. "Absolutely! I even heard that Mosu and the boys were going to be participating as well," said Erika. Sunset bore a look of surprise. "Gojira willfully participating in a school event? No way," said Sunset in disbelief. Erika shrugged. "Either way, he's a part of it. Speaking of which, how is he? Has he made up with Twilight and the others?" asked Erika. Sunset sighed as she shook her head. "Nope. Last time I asked, he was still pretty angry with them," said Sunset. "And when was that?" asked Erika. "A few hours ago," replied Sunset bluntly. Erika slumped her shoulders as she frowned. "Oh," said Erika in disappointment. She rubbed her arm as she thought of how Junior may have been feeling. She didn't blame him for being upset with them, but it pained her to know that he was unable to forgive them. Things had gotten much more tense since the truth was revealed to them all. "Hey... Remember what those Transmutants said? About the Ark?" asked Erika. Sunset nodded, though looked reluctant to talk about it. "Yeah?" answered Sunset. "What do you think they meant when they said that it was affecting you and the others?" asked Erika. Sunset sighed as she looked at her hand with a worried look. "I don't know. But I'm kinda afraid to find out," said Sunset. "It might be so bad. If there is something supernatural at play as they said, it could be something good. God had blessed Sansom with his strength, Moses and Aaron had a staff that turned into a snake and parted the sea. Christ walked on water and healed those who suffered, even going as far as raising the dead," said Erika. Sunset shook her head. "Come on, Erika. You know that I don't believe in that stuff. 'Miracles' and what not. There has to be some other reason what makes their 'Ark' so special," said Sunset. Erika sighed. "I know you don't. But the point that I am trying to make is that this might not necessarily be a bad thing. If what they say is true, it could be something good," said Erika. Sunset bore a look of uncertainty. "I always hate it when there are things that I can't figure out," said Sunset in dismay. "Yeah. But I think that's what makes the world interesting. It keeps us guessing," said Erika. As the two continued to walk, Erika began to blink in just short seconds. She squinted as her sight began to blur. Erika rubbed her eyes as her muscles began to tire. "Erika?" called Sunset in worry. "Mm. I'm fine. I'm just... Feeling real tired," said Erika as she stumbled. Sunset gasped in alarm and quickly caught her friend before she fell to the ground. Erika lightly moaned as she held her head. "My... My head. It's spinning," said Erika as she got on her knees with Sunset. The red haired girl bore a look of worry. "H-Hey, are you sure that you're alright?" asked Sunset. Erika raised her head slightly and her pupils briefly became slits before returning to normal. She had a shaky breath as she stared off into space. Sunset looked at her worriedly as Erika appeared to be trembling as she stood in place. "No..." whimpered Erika. Sunset shook her roughly. "Erika!" called Sunset. Her friend gasped as she snapped out of her dazed state. She turned to look at Sunset, who bore a look of great concern. "Erika, are you alright?" asked Sunset. "I-I'm fine," said Erika with her voice slightly trembling. Sunset didn't buy this, finding that her skin appeared to be pale, like she was sick. "Do you want me to take you to a hospital?" asked Sunset. Erika stiffened. "W-Why would I need a hospital?" asked Erika. "You aren't looking well, Erika. I'm worried," said Sunset. "No hospitals! I'm fine!" said Erika frantically, prompting Sunset to recoil at her tone. She slightly narrowed her eyes. "I beg to differ. What's wrong? You're so jumpy right now," said Sunset. "Nothing is wrong. I swear," said Erika in a calm tone. She cleared her throat as she stood up straight. "I-I'll see you at school tomorrow, 'kay?" Erika briskly took off down the sidewalk. "Erika!" called Sunset as she reached out to her friend. But Erika ignored her call. Sunset sighed heavily as she bore furrowed brows as she looked on suspiciously. Erika burst through the door to her home. She panted as she threw her bag to the ground, feeling the world around her beginning to spin. She stumbled as she attempted to navigate through the hall of her home. "Wha... Why?" Erika's voice echoed out as her vision clouded and the world spun, making her feel sick. She stumbled through the hall and to the bathroom door. She continued to hear hissing that echoed out in her home. Erika whipped her head back with her eyes vigilant. Her heart beats were so loud that they were almost deafening to her ears. Her breathing was ragged as the sound of the air conditioner activating reached her hearing, creating a pounding headache. Erika groaned as she clutched her head and slumped against the wall as the sounds from clocks ticking, the air condition blowing air, her heart beats, and her own footsteps filled the air. But despite all of these sounds, she could still hear hissing. Erika cupped a hand over her mouth as her stomach tightened. She quickly burst through the bathroom door and dropped to her knees by the toilet. She opened and was about to vomit. But in the toilet was a green eyeless snake just waiting for her in the bowl. Erika screamed in fright as she stumbled back. In the process, she began to vomit onto the ground from the nausea that she felt. Her eyes widened as her muscles tightened and her head pounded. She coughed as she spat out remnants of bile from her mouth, while feeling a burning sensation from her throat and strong pains in her gut. Erika stumbled up to her feet and carefully looked into the toilet, finding it empty. She felt her stomach ache terribly, prompting her to stumble out of the bathroom, leaving behind a sickly green bile on the floor, which gave a sizzle on the ground. Erika stumbled into her room, with her head still pounding. She groaned as she dropped at the side of her bed and collapsed onto the floor, while shakily pulling the covers off and onto her body. She shook violently as she began to sweat profusely. Erika could hear the hissing in her ears, prompting her eyes to widen. Her vision continued to blur and darken. And every time it returned, the room changed. It slowly appeared to be covered in plant life. Vines hung from the ceilings, and serpentine forms slithered through the room. Erika panted as she began to whimper as her gut ached and her head pounded. She saw shadows in the room that moved ominously across the walls, and felt the snakes coil around her. Soon, Erika found an eyeless snake coiling itself around her body. It raised its head as it opened its flytrap-like jaws and exposed its sharp teeth. It gave a hiss as a dark figure stood over her, with a feminine appearance and yellow eyes. Erika panted as the serpent squeezed her and as the room disappeared, replaced by the shadowy figure that stared into her soul, followed by another dark figure with red eyes. Erika felt fear coursing through her entire being, along feeling the cold atmosphere around her, as if she was being suffocated by evil. Erika's vision darkened and she passed out. It was the next day. Students were rounding up in the gymnasium as a stage was lit, where microphones were present and the lights were dimmed. At the front of the stage in the gymnasium was a table, where Principal Celestia and Vice Principal Luna were sitting as they sorted out papers on the table. From the stage, a group of students began to set up their own musical instruments as more students assembled. Soon, the musical showcase had begun, with the first group playing their own instruments. Meanwhile back stage, Junior stood by with a heavy sigh. He wasn't looking forward to being on stage in front of everyone. Fortunately, he wasn't going to be alone. Rodan was tuning his guitar along while Angirasu tuned his base. Mosura looked at Junior with a smile. "Nervous?" asked Mosura. "Uh huh," said Junior. Mosura chuckled. "Me too," said Mosura. Angirasu bore a grimace as he stood next to Rodan. "I don’t know about this," said Angirasu. "Hey, you got this man. Just relax," said Rodan with a reassuring smile. "OK. Ok," said Angirasu as he lightly shook and nodded. Junior sighed too. Truthfully, he was kind of nervous being in front of everyone on stage to do this. He then heard footsteps approaching, turning to find Fluttershy to be making her way over to the group, holding onto a tambourine. "Hi, Gojira. How's your arm? If you don't mind me asking?" asked Fluttershy. Junior pulled back his sleeve and revealed his stump, which had regenerated up to the forearm. "Recovering much sooner than I expected," said Junior. Fluttershy looked at the scales that decorated his arm in worry. They looked like they were just jutting out of the human flesh while the human part of his skin appeared to have been dark, like the skin was dead. "Is that normal?" asked Fluttershy as she pointed to the arm. "Normal is too kind of a word for Transmutants, Fluttershy," said Junior with a small chuckle. Fluttershy pouted at him. "You know what I mean," said Fluttershy. "Well, I don't think it's something to worry about. This could be a normal process. I mean, it was just a laser that cut through my arm," said Junior. Fluttershy nodded though with a look of discomfort of the thought. She decided to change the subject. "So... You guys are next?" asked Fluttershy. "Yeah," said Junior in dismay. Fluttershy recognized his tone and smiled in reassurance. "Oh. I know how you feel. I'm feeling anxious about being on stage. But... At least we all won't be alone," said Fluttershy with a smile. Junior smiled in response. "Yeah, that's true," said Junior. "And now, the Trotkyo Titans!" announced Celestia from the front of stage. Junior sighed as and the other Transmutants took their instruments to the stage. "Break a leg!" said Fluttershy. Junior nodded to her with a smile. "You too," said Junior as he and the other Transmutants got on stage. He made his way to the back and removed a sheet that covered the restored drum set that he and his friends had been practicing with. It was a bit rough if you had a closer look at it, seeing how there were chipped pieces on it and some rust, but that required a keen eye to see from a distance. He took a seat as Mosura helped strap a drum stick onto his stump on his left arm. The four Transmutants began to take their spots on stage, with the boys preparing to use their instruments and Mosura mentally preparing herself for this performance. Angirasu stood with his bass with a small inhale of air as he looked to the audience of students, along with the heads of the school sitting at a table just in front of the stage. He also saw some teachers, including his mother, dressed as a gym teacher. He slumped his shoulders. “Ah I can’t do this,” said Angirasu. Rodan nudged his shoulder. “We got this,” said Rodan. The gymnasium was silent as the Transmutants set up the instruments. Junior took a breath as he nodded to Angirasu, who gulped nervously. Mosura took the mic as she silently cleared her throat and Rodan tuned his guitar. He leaned over to a mic before him. "This is dedicated to the friends that are no longer with us today," said Rodan. Junior began to click the drumsticks as Angirasu strummed on the bass. Rodan began to play the guitar that played alongside the sound of the drums and bass, creating a somewhat soft melody. Mosura began to vocalize. “Sometimes I lay under the moon~. And thank God I'm breathing~. Then I pray, Don't take me soon~. Cause I am here for a reason~." Rodan sang as he and the other two male Transmutants played their instruments. "Sometimes in my tears I drown~. But I never let it get me down~. So when negativity surrounds~. I know some day it'll all turn around because..." Mosura began to sing as the boys continued to play the instruments. Her soft voice resonated through the entire gymnasium. "All my life I've been waiting for~. I've been praying for~. For the people to say~. That we don't wanna fight no more~. There will be no more wars~. And our children will play~. "Sang Rodan and Mosura in unison. The band began to pick up a bit on the tempo. "One day~! One day~! One day~!" Mosura and Rodan sang. From the audience, Celestia and Luna listened with watery eyes as the teens played. From the crowd, Aiko listened with a soft expression "It's not about, Win or lose~. 'Cause we all lose when they feed on the souls of the innocent~. Blood-drenched pavement~. Keep on moving though the waters stay raging~." as Rodan sang, the Main Six, the Dazzlings and Sunset watched with watery eyes as they listened to the lyrics. Recalling the tragedy that they had all endured. "In this maze you can lose your way~." sang Mosura. "Your way~." sang Rodan, backing Mosura in the lyrics. "It might drive you crazy but don't let it faze you, no way~." sang Mosura. "No way~." sang Rodan. "Sometimes in my tears I drown~," sang Mosura.  "I drown~," sang Rodan. "But I never let it get me down~." sang Mosura.  "Get me down~," sang Rodan. "So, when negativity surrounds~," sang Mosura. "surrounds~," sang Rodan. "I know some day it'll all turn around because..." Mosura sang. "All my life I've been waiting for "I've been praying for," Rodan sang, taking over as the focus singer. "For the people to say~ That we don't wanna fight no more~. There will be no more wars.~ And our children will play.~" sang Rodan. “One day~! One Day~! One day~! One day~! One day~! One day~!" Rodan and Mosura sang in unison. Students in the crowd had turned on the lights on their cell phones and proceeded to wave the phones about, as if mimicking candle lights swaying in the darkness. Aiko's expression was soft as she watched her son play on stage with his friends. "One day this all will change~. Treat people the same~. Stop with the violence~. Down with the hate~." Mosura sang as her own eyes watered. She felt herself pouring her heart out to those around her and those who were no longer with them on this day. "One day we'll all be free~. And proud to be~. Under the same sun~. Singing songs of freedom like.~" Mosura sang out as her voice picked up volume for the climax. One day~! One day~! One Day~! One day~!" sang Mosura and Rodan in unison. Mosura began to vocalize as Rodan took the center stage. "All my life I've been waiting for~. I've been praying for~. For the people to say~. That we don't wanna fight no more~. There will be no more wars~. And our children will play~." Rodan sang as Mosura returned to his side. "One day~! One Day~! One day~! One day~! One day~! One day~!" Rodan and Mosura sang in unison. Their voices began to softly drift in tone to silence as they finished the last of the words. Meanwhile, Junior and Angirasu began to stop playing the instruments as they gave a low beat that faded to silence. The gymnasium suddenly erupted in cheers and applause. Celestia and Luna immediately stood up from their seats and gave their applause, while wiping tears from their eyes. Junior and Angirasu both relaxed in relief as the applause went on. They began to wave to the audience. "We love ya, Ponyville High!" shouted Rodan as he and the Transmutants began to leave stage with their instruments. As they went backstage, they found the girls to be clapping for them. "That was great!" said Sonata. Angirasu lightly sighed. "Thanks," said Angirasu. Rodan chuckled as he nudged the Transmutant. "Dude, relax. They loved it!" said Rodan. "Indeed! The lyrics were beautiful!" said Rarity with a sniffle as she wiped her eyes. "You and Mosu sure do make a fine duet," said Applejack with a nod. Mosura lightly flushed in flattery. "I thought that I was gonna freeze of stage fright," chuckled Mosura. Pinkie grinned. "That was awesome! You guys should think about starting a real band!" said Pinkie. "No way. Once was enough for me," said Junior as he crossed his arms. The teens around him all laughed in amusement at the Transmutant's response. Angirasu found his mother to be making her way away from the crowd, attempting to reach he side of the gymnasium, where the backstage was. Angirasu quickly began to make his way away from back stage. "I'll be back," said Angirasu. "Up next, the Dazzlings!" said Luna on the microphone. The entire gymnasium erupted into cheers, catching the attention of the teens. Adagio smirked. "Our adoring fans await. How about a kiss for good luck?" asked Adagio as she held a hand on her hip. Junior rolled his eyes. "Very funny," said Junior as the Dazzlings made their way on stage. Junior sighed as he turned and found Sunset Shimmer to be approaching. "Hey, Sunny," greeted Junior. "Hi. Hey, have any of you seen Erika today?" asked Sunset. "No," answered the teens in unison. "Have you tried her cell phone?" asked Mosura. "I have. She hasn't answered," said Sunset. "Maybe she's sick," suggested Rodan with a shrug. "Maybe. I'm worried. Yesterday when we were walking home, she seemed to have been off. She was complaining about a headache and just spaced out. I offered to take her to see a doctor but she refused. Almost like she was afraid to go anywhere near a hospital," said Sunset. Junior felt a tinge of discomfort welling up inside. He assumed that he knew why Erika might have been so reluctant to go to a hospital. They could bring up her no longer existent condition to her, having Sunset find out. He doubted that Erika told her that she was dying. But the other source of his discomfort of Erika seeming ill. It could have been nothing serious, but he feared the worse, especially with Erika's previous condition. "Tell you what. If you want, we can stop by to check on her after the showcase," said Junior. Sunset smiled graciously. "Thanks. I would appreciate that. By the way, great performance." said Sunset. She then looked to the stage with a smile. "Oh. Looks like they're starting," said Sunset. The teens directed their attention on stage, where music played and the Dazzlings held microphones. "Now's time, get in line~. Don't be afraid tonight~. We're gonna take you high~. And before you realise~," sang Adagio as the audience cheered. "'Round and 'round you'll go~. Up and down, never slow~." the Dazzlings began to sing in unison. Sunset smiled as she nodded her head to the rhythm of the song. She looked to see if Junior was impressed or was being a sour puss as usual. However, she noticed that he had a blank expression on his face. He appeared to be zoned out. "Feel the excitement grow, oh.~ This is where you let go.~. Hands high like a roller coaster.~ This love is taking over.~" sang the Dazzlings. Sunset began to wave her hand over Junior's eyes, but he didn't respond. He gave a small groan as he slightly swayed. "Gojira?" called Sunset in worry as she began to shake him. But no response. She then looked to Rodan and Mosura and found them to be in the same state. They were like zombies. Sunset quickly rushed to the back and gasped as she found other participants in the showcase to be in the same blank state that the Transmutants were in. "What the hell?!" exclaimed Sunset. She then gasped as she found the Main Six to be well as they were worriedly checking on the zombie-like students. "What is going on?!" cried Twilight. "Why are they so brain dead?" asked Rainbow with an unnerved look. "Gojira and the others are the same way!" said Sunset. The teens yelped as they noticed red waves of light to be pulsing through the air, phasing passed them. They looked around nervously. But, Applejack was quick to see that the waves came from the Dazzlings, the epicenter. She rushed to the end of the curtain near the stage and peered over to find the audience to be stuck in the same state as the others as the waves passed over them. She quickly rushed over to the Dazzlings. "Take us higher, here we go~. Oh, oh-" the Dazzlings were interrupted as AJ snatched Adagio's mike. The waves stopped flowing from them. "Hey! What gives?" demanded Adagio with a glare. "Look at the audience! Something is wrong with them!" said Applejack as she pointed to those below stage. The Dazzlings stared in shock at the zombie-like trance that the audience was in. "Uh... Helloooo! Say something!" said Sonata on her own mike. "Something," said the audience in unison. The normal teens all bore unnerved looks. "Uh..." Sonata looked to her sisters, the Main Six and Sunset worriedly. "Those sound waves stopped. They came from the Dazzlings while they were singing. Now Gojira and everyone else are in this weird trance," said Twilight with an unnerved look. "But why? And how?" asked Rarity. Pinkie made her way over to Junior. "Goji! Say something!" shouted Pinkie. Junior remained silent as he remained in place. "Gojira?" called Adagio as she bit her lip. Junior suddenly directed his attention to her, much to everyone's shock. "Is he that mad at me?" asked Pinkie with a frown. Fluttershy rubbed her chin. "Goji?" called Fluttershy. Junior did not move. He kept his focus on Adagio. "I wonder..." Fluttershy hummed. "You onto something, Flutters?" asked Rainbow with a raised brow. "Aria, Sonata, call them," said Fluttershy. The two shrugged. "Yo, Mosura?" called Aria. The female Transmutant looked to Aria. "Rodan?" called Sonata. Rodan looked in her direction. "They seem to only respond to the Dazzlings. Just like how the audience said 'something' when Sonata said so," said Fluttershy. "It's like an owner giving commands to their dog." "So what? You're saying that they hypnotized everyone?" asked Rainbow in disbelief. "Remember what Amber said? The Ark is effecting us," said Fluttershy. "You don't honestly believe that, do you?" asked Twilight. "There's no other way to explain it!" said Fluttershy. Sonata cupped her mouth in dread as she looked to all of the people around. "Oh no," said Sonata. "OK. Maybe what they said was true. But how are we supposed to fix this?" asked Aria. Applejack shuddered. "Ah. This is like some kinda freaky voodoo," said Applejack as she anxiously looked at the Transmutants. "Wait! This happened because the Dazzlings were singing right? And if there's something crazy going on with us, maybe we can try fixing it with another song," said Rainbow. "Something like breaking the spell. That's fairy tale 101." "But how would we know that would even work?" asked Twilight. "This can't be magic or any supernatural element." "Twi, lately I'm beginning to think that there is more to this world that science ain't capable of explaining. And frankly, it's starting to creep me out," said Applejack. "Besides, we gotta try something. We can't leave everyone like this," said Rainbow as she gestured to the entire audience. Twilight looked to Junior in his state, deeply frowning. She sighed. "Alright, let's humor the situation," said Twilight as she walked on stage and took the microphone from Applejack. The rest of the Main Six brought their instruments over to the stage as the Dazzlings departed. Sonata looked around and found Angirasu to have been by the exit, as his mother was still stuck in the crowd during their stone state. She rushed to him. "Angirasu, come over here so we can keep track of you and the others," said Sonata as she held her hand out. Angirasu looked her way and reached for hand. Sonata bore a look of surprise at how he had just did as she told him to. "Um... Would you do anything I ask?" asked Sonata with flushing cheeks. "Yes," said Angirasu in a neutral tone. Sonata's heart skipped a beat. She shook her head furiously. "Come on!" said Sonata as she towed Angirasu to the back stage to the other Transmutants. From the stage, Pinkie clicked her drum sticks together. "One! Two! Three!" "There was a time we were apart.~ But that's behind us now.~ See how we've made a brand new start.~ And the future's lookin' up,~" The Main Six sang as the sound of the keytar, bass, guitar, tambourine and the drums playing filled the air. "ah-oh, ah-oh.~ And when you walk these halls.~ You feel it everywhere~. Yeah, we're the Wondercolts forever, ah-oh, yeah!~ We are all together.~ Ah, ah, oh-oh-oh-oh~." The Main Six sang. During their performance, the area around them began to radiate with a pure light that softly glowed. The Dazzlings and Sunset stared in shock as the Main Six glowed brighter as they sang. From the girls came a wave of light that spread across the gymnasium, causing the audience to flinch and blink their eyes of the blindness from the light. "It's working!" said Sunset. "Now it's better than ever.~ Ah, ah, oh-oh-oh-oh.~ You can feel it, we are back.~ (You... can... feel... it...~). And I'm so glad that we're better.~ Better than ever~." sang the girls. The audience bore slight brief looks of confusion. Their heads slightly ached and they felt dazed. They swore that the Dazzlings were giving a great performance but they don't recall it ending. But they then shrugged it off as they listened to the Main Six. "Whoa-oh, oh-whoa-oh.~ Oh yeah, we're better than ever.~ Whoa-oh, oh-whoa-oh.~" sang the Main Six, finishing off their song. The gymnasium erupted into cheers for the girls from their performance, while Celestia and Luna applauded them with bright smiles, though the two glanced at each other. Meanwhile back stage, the Transmutants had snapped out of their trance. "Ah. What the hell happened?" asked Junior as he rubbed his head. "Almost everyone just zoned out! Like you were under some kind of hypnosis!" said Sonata. Mosura bore a look of confusion. "Huh?"" "When the Dazzlings started singing, everyone went under this trance. Then Twilight and the others sung to snap you all out of it," said Sunset. Angirasu looked around in confusion. "That... That might explain why I'm suddenly backstage," said Angirasu with an unnerved look. The Main Six came rushing back stage as they were cheered for, while a group of other students took their place. "It actually worked!" said Twilight as she bore a dumbfounded look. "Yeah, you put on a light show in the process. Something is definitely up," said Aria. "So... Does that mean that what that bug was saying is true?" asked Pinkie in curiosity. The teens all looked to each other with questioning looks. They still weren't able to make out what had happened and what it all meant. They all directed their attention on Junior. "What?" asked Junior with a shrug. "Don't ask me. I don't know anything about what's happening. And really, I can't bring myself to care right now." "But this could be serious! Gojira, we need you to ask for us!" said Twilight. Junior scoffed. "Like I said, I don't care. Ask Rodan or Aang to ask. They know where to go," said Junior in annoyance. He then looked to Sunset. "Come on. Now is a good time to go check on Erika," said Junior as he walked to the exit. "Uh..." Sunset looked back at the others with a shrug. She then began to run after the Transmutant as he ran out the door. The rest of the girls looked on in disbelief. "Dude, for real? You're just gonna leave?" asked Rainbow in disbelief. She crossed her arms with a huff. "Jerk-ass," said Rainbow. Twilight lowered her eyes to the ground with a heavy sigh. Junior was walking down the sidewalk alongside Sunset Shimmer. The air around them was filled with silence. In this silence, there was tension building up between them over the event of earlier. Sunset glanced at Junior, finding a permanent scowl on his face as he walked on. "Gojira, we could really use your help," said Sunset. "There's not much I can do, Sunset. My dad mostly knows and Amber doesn't seem willing to discuss it right now. And honestly, I'm not going to waste my time doing them any favors," said Junior. Sunset sent him a glare. "Hey, those are your friends! It isn't fair that you're making everyone else suffer from the unknown just because you're pissed off at a mistake!" said Sunset as she stood in front of Junior. The Transmutant merely narrowed his eyes at her and looked away. "Try being in my shoes," said Junior. Sunset sighed heavily. She reached for his arm. "Goji- Ugh!" Sunset gasped as her head shot back as her eyes rolled back. Junior looked at her worriedly. "Sunset?" called Junior. Sunset shuddered as she held onto Junior's arm tightly. She quickly pulled her hand away as she began to shook. Sunset panted as she looked at her hand, trembling as she breathed shakily. "Sunset?" called Junior in worry as he placed a hand on her shoulder. Sunset slightly flinched in response, but relaxed. She grunted as she held a hand to her head. "Hey, you OK?" asked Junior. "I... I saw something. It's like last time. It's..." Sunset held her head with a frightened look. "What the hell is happening to me?" asked Sunset. Junior's expression softened. He didn't understand what the girl's problem was, but it may have been linked to the Ark after all. While he didn't care enough to help Twilight and the others with the problem, there was Sunset and Fluttershy and even the Dazzlings who would be affected. Seeing Sunset this frightened managed to get through to his stubborn attitude. This was a matter to take seriously. "Hey," called Junior. Sunset looked his way, still looking shaken. "Let's check on Erika. After that, you and I can pay Amber a visit. Sound good?" asked Junior. Sunset nodded. "OK. Come on. The sooner we get to Erika's, the sooner we can meet Amber," said Junior as he took the lead. Sunset watched Junior leave with a soft expression. She held a hand to her chest with a deep frown and stinging eyes. She quickly wiped her eyes and proceeded to walk after the Transmutant. Later, the two had made it over to Erika's home. It was a single story house, bearing a flower bed near the porch of roses. The two made their way to the door, while Junior brought his attention to the roses on the flower bed. "I never knew she had a garden," said Junior. "It was her mother's. After she died, Erika had been the one taking care of it for her. I remember coming over on the weekends back in Junior High. She wore this cute little hat that she used when outside on a spring day. Heh. I remember how it was decorated in plastic flowers. It was ironic since she made it a hobby to plant flowers and never used real ones for her hat. It wasn't until the formal that she ended up using one of the roses to pin into her hair," said Sunset with a look of nostalgia. "You two go way back huh?" asked Junior. "Yeah," said Sunset. "So, how did you meet? Is it the rare nice popular kid bringing in the nice non-popular kid into the clique?" asked Junior. Sunset chuckled. "You'd think. But I wasn't always popular. No, actually she was the one that approached me," said Sunset. "Really?" asked Junior. "Yeah. And don't let her nice, gentle personality fool you. She's no pushover," said Sunset with a smirk. "I have a hard time believing that. I mean, she seems a bit timid," said Junior. "Only around you. But it's obvious that she's warmed up to you," said Sunset as she made her way to the door and began to knock on it. After a minute, Sunset knocked on the door again. Still, there was no answer. Sunset began to grow a look of concern. "Maybe she's not home," said Junior. "Maybe. But... Hold on, let's check around back," said Sunset a she moved away from the door and made her way over to the side of the house. Junior followed her, walking over the grass. He was able to catch a foul stench in the air that made him a bit nauseous. "Do you smell that?" asked Junior. Sunset looked back at him in confusion. "Smell what?" asked Sunset. "Ugh. I smell something awful! It's like something died in the house," said Junior as he looked at the house. He noticed that Sunset stopped abruptly, bearing a fearful look. "You don't think..." Sunset looked at him as she bit her lip. Junior began to grow anxious as well, registering what he had just said. Sunset quickly rushed around the house, where she found a window. She stood on her tip toes and peered through the window. Inside, she found Erika lying in bed under the covers, with her eyes closed. Junior made his way to her side. Sunset quickly began to bang her hand against the window. From the bed, Erika shot up with a start. Sunset sighed in relief. She then glared at Junior. "Ugh! You nearly gave me a heart attack! I swear, Gojira!" said Sunset as she punched Junior in the shoulder. "Sorry! It's just that something smells terrible that it's making me nauseous," said Junior as Sunset punched his shoulder several times. The window slid open, where Erika poked her head through with a look of confusion. "Sunset? Gojira? What are you two doing here?" asked Erika. "Where have you been? You haven't answered any of my calls or texts all day!" said Sunset. Erika quickly made her way back over to her bed and grabbed a phone by her dresser. She found that she had several missed calls and text messages. "Oh. Sorry, I haven't been feeling well. I've been sleeping all day," said Erika as she rubbed her eyes. Sunset groaned. "See? I told you that we should have gone to see a doctor!" said Sunset. "It's nothing serious, honest. Just a cold," said Erika as she turned away and gave fake coughs. She cleared her throat as she turned back to face her friends. Sunset bore a unconvinced look on her face. Erika noticed this and bore a look of discomfort. "Erika, I think this is more than a cold. You were staring off into space yesterday," said Sunset. "Look, I said I'm fine, alright?!" said Erika as she raised her tone, startling Junior and Sunset. Erika bit her lip as she began to sweat. "Listen, I'm feeling like crap right now. I'll text you later," said Erika as she began to close her window. "Erika, wai-" Erika had already closed the window before Sunset could call her. Erika quickly closed the certain. Sunset sighed heavily. "You believe that?" asked Sunset. "Not... Exactly. She did seem pretty quick to blow us off," said Junior, though he did have a theory that Erika's illness might have been making a comeback. He hoped that this wasn't the case. And still, he wondered if it would've been right to mention Erika's previous condition, especially since Erika was very adamant about doing so. Sunset shook her head as she turned and tapped Junior's shoulder. "Come on, big guy. You promised to get answers," said Sunset with a wink. Junior merely smirked in response. The two began to leave Erika's house. Meanwhile inside, Erika was peeking through the curtain and watched them leave. She began to make her way over to the bathroom, feeling how weak her muscles were and how her bladder burned. Erika panted in pain as she moved to her bathroom. She gasped in shock as she looked to the ground. The tile on the floor had a spot that looked to have been eroded. She knelt down beside the erosion and found the wood below to have been exposed and partially eaten away at. Erika trembled as she stood up. At the corner of her eye, she spotted movement. She turned and suddenly found herself. She thought she saw herself in the mirror, but this person was pale like a ghost. Her veins were exposed from her neck and her eyes were yellow-green orbs. Her hair was clumped up and ragged. "Ragh!!" the woman shrieked as she lunged for Erika as eye less snakes came from her back. Erika screamed at the top of her lungs as she fell to the ground. She panted as she remained curled in a ball. She shook in place as she began to sob. Her crying echoed in the bathroom, as she remained alone here in the room. Angirasu was moving through the school hallway in silence. He soon came outside of the school, where he found a dark car to be present. He found his mother to be sitting in the driver's seat as the car remained in the parking lot. He made his way to the vehicle and entered from the passenger seat. Aiko began to pull out of the parking lot and drove the car away from the school. There was an uneasy silence between the two. “So… That was a nice performance,” said Aiko. “Th-Thank you,” said Angirasu as he cleared his throat. He then gave a forced chuckle. “I uh… I was pretty nervous up there,” said Angirasu. Aiko smiled in amusement. “Yeah, I could tell. But you did pretty well up there,” said Aiko. She then sighed. “Listen, I have to be blunt with you. I’m concerned about those girls that you know. The ones that we saw at that restaurant on the weekend," said Aiko. Angirasu bore a look of confusion. "Huh? What do you mean?" asked Angirasu. "When they began to sing, I felt like I had blacked out. Something was wrong. I felt as though I was awake, yet I wasn't. I found myself saying words that I didn't even think up." Aiko's eyes were cold as she stared at the road ahead as she drove. Angirasu bit his lip in realization. "You felt it too, right? Something wasn't right," said Aiko. "I uh... I was in the bathroom," lied Angirasu. Aiko didn't respond to the lie. "I don't know what it was, but they had to have been linked to it somehow," said Aiko. "Mom... I don't think I understand what you're saying," said Angirasu. "Son, I would be more comfortable if you stayed away from those girls," said Aiko. Angirasu's eyes widened. "What? Why?!" asked Angirasu. "Because of what I had said earlier. Besides, I'm not comfortable with that Sonata, girl," said Aiko. "Sonata? Why not?" asked Angirasu in disbelief. He wondered how anyone could not like a sweet girl like Sonata. "She seems to be too much over you," said Aiko. Angirasu's eyes widened. "Mom, it's not like... Mom!" said Angirasu in shock. Aiko sighed. "Look, I know how I sound," said Aiko. "Mom, she isn't like that! We're just friends!" said Angirasu. Aiko chuckled as she shook her head. "Oh dear, you can't be that oblivious. She's very sweet on you," said Aiko. Angirasu looked away. "I just... I don't want you to be caught up with all of this physical contact at your age. You're both young. And with that, comes stupid decisions. I made some myself when I was young," said Aiko. She looked to her son. "Remember, you have to be more careful now. You don't have your inhibitor chip anymore. Transmutants who can no longer control their animal instincts, are thrown in the Vault or killed," said Aiko with a soft expression. Angirasu softly sighed. "I know," said Angirasu. He was familiar with that philosophy by his mother. He had lived by it for years. It's the reason why Aang tried to play safe in life, like trying to stay away from sex, violence, or anything that might trigger those animal urges. Some may criticize him for being uptight or even being uncool for not participating in some of these pleasures, but he didn't care. He knew the consequences and the law, as taught by his mother. But as of now, life was no longer a place to play safe. Or rather, Angirasu now realized that life was never truly a place to play it safe. Sometimes, these things are unavoidable. So far, Angirasu has found himself joining the Guardians, who were a group of rogue Transmutants; had a date with a girl his age; and was forced to fight for his life against Purists. He wondered if him losing control was inevitable and it sunk any confidence of ever making it in this world. He knew that his mother was only trying to help, but it wasn't. All it did was remind him of how his heritage may ultimately be his downfall. Junior was walking alongside Sunset Shimmer. She remained close to his side in order to avoid being picked by any wolves or bears that may have been lurking in the forest. As they walked to their destination, they were unaware of the fact that they were being followed. Koizumi hung far behind as he was behind a bush. He had been tailing Junior all day now, who had broken his schedule to return home. Now he was taking his friend to see this 'Amber' character. This brought up suspicion since he had not heard of this individual mentioned. Koizumi followed the pair through the forest until they reached a clearing. Koizumi found Sunset and Junior travelling down stone steps that led to the bottom. He watched as the pair made their way down to the bottom of the chasm, where they proceeded to walk towards a cave. "Hmm. Quite the suspicious place to sneak a grope, kid," said Koizumi to himself. He then knelt down as he drew out a small metal pill from his pocket. He drew out a small tablet next and slid a finger on the screen, where a 3D image of a beetle appeared. Suddenly, the pill in his hand began to sprout metallic legs and two red eyes began to glow from the front. The metal insect looked towards Koizumi, while the mercenary looked at the tablet in his hand. He saw himself from the beetle's perspective. "Alright little spy drone. Find out what our friend is up to," said Koizumi as he tossed the beetle over the ledge of the chasm. The beetle fell briefly before sprouting synthetic white insect-like wings. The drone made a small buzzing sound as it flew down to the chasm, making its way into the cave. The beetle began to fly over to a wall as Koizumi was able to see the live footage being recorded by the drone from his tablet. He found dozens of people inside of the cave, where weapons were being stacked. "Jesus. Hey kid, you seeing this?" asked Koizumi over his COM. "I do. What the hell is this?" asked Inoue over the COM. The drone continued to fly through the air as it made its way to a wall. It stuck onto the rocky wall and proceeded to crawl along it, avoiding the sight of any in the cave. The camera began to pan back from the large optics, catching footage of those below on the ground, finding Junior leading Sunset to Manda. "Junior, I wasn't expecting to see you or one of your friends around," said Manda in surprise. Koizumi and Inoue were able to pick up the audio from them due to the drone's audio processors that allowed a clear recording. "We need to see Amber. It's about the Ark," said Junior. Koizumi raised a brow. "Whoa. This kid is a little too familiar with these people," said Koizumi. The drone flew through the cave as it followed Sunset, Junior and Manda to the back of the cave, where some mobile curtains were present. They made their way behind the curtains, while the drone perched itself on the wall, attempting to grow closer. Suddenly, the footage began to garble. "Oh shit," said Koizumi as he frantically began to make the drone look around. No one seemed to have spotted them since everyone was currently moving equipment around and conversing. "What's going on?" asked Inoue in worry over the COM. "There's some interference going on with the drone. I can't figure out the source," said Koizumi as he began to type commands on the tablet to rectify the problem. However, the interference seemed to have been growing stronger. "Shit!" said Koizumi in frustration as he made the drone pull back away from the back area of the cave. As he did this, the drone's footage began to clear up. "That's weird," said Inoue. "Something must be messing with the drone. I'm afraid if we have it get closer, we'll lose the damn thing," said Koizumi as he began to type on the tablet. "I'm gonna increase the range of audio and focus on the front of the drone," said Koizumi. From within the cave, the drone's optics briefly flashed and sprouted a tiny satellite from its head, pointing towards the back of the cave. Soon, Koizumi and Inoue were able to pick up a conversation. "I have to know what's going on. How is this Ark-" Sunset's voice garbled as Koizumi attempted to adjust the audio receiver. "The Ark is a very important object that has power that none of your scientists are capable of comprehending. Its power surpasses that of nuclear energy," said an unfamiliar feminine voice from behind the curtain. "That's why Gojira Takeshi I has rounded together these Transmutants, to protect the Ark," said the feminine voice. "Shit. Looks like we do have a group of rogue Transmutants here near Ponyville after all," said Koizumi over his COM. "What is this Ark that they keep referring to?" asked Inoue in confusion. Koizumi hardened his eyes. "I don't know. But we should step in. I need you to bring in the van with my armor and be ready to pick off anyone with your sniper when you get here after I detonate the drone over a crate of explosives," said Koizumi as he focused the drone's sights on a crate near a Transmutant that bore markings that labeled it, 'explosives'. "While you do that, I'll move in and take out these bastards in the midst of the confusion," said Koizumi as he stood up and loaded up an assault rifle. "Wait! Wait!" said Inoue frantically. "Sarge, did you hear what they said? This Ark has more power than nuclear energy! We could be dealing with a powerful weapon!" said Inoue. "We don't know that for sure, Inoue," said Koizumi. "Maybe not. But we have had prototype weapons that were stolen and used by Purist terrorists. What if the same could be for these Transmutants? They have something in there that Gojira was guarding. I think it's important that we tell the Director so that he can find out what," said Inoue. "Oh. And not to mention that we have civilians involved. We need to be careful with how we go about this." "Ugh. Alright, fine. We'll pull back for now. But civilian or not, I'm beginning to get an itchy trigger finger with this kid we're being forced to baby sit as time goes on," said Koizumi in reluctance. Inoue scoffed. "Please, pull back. We'll tell the Director and find out from there," said Inoue as Koizumi commanded the drone to fly out of the cave and to land back into his hand, reverting back to a metal pill. Koizumi began to pack up his gear and proceeded to run through the forest, out of sight. Back in the cave, Sunset stood beside Junior and Manda as Amber was perched on a stool. "You see, you are undergoing changes from the content within the Ark," said Amber. Sunset sighed in annoyance. "I know that. But why? Why is this happening? And how bad are these changes going to get?" asked Sunset. "Dear, these changes are nothing of ill intent. These are beneficial and will provide you power to protect not only yourself, but those around you. The Ark has found you and your friends worthy to possess gifts that will be used for the good of the world," said Amber. Sunset bore a quizzical look. "But why? And what's in there that seems to have some kind of will of its own?" asked Sunset, growing even more confused. "Sunset, what's in the Ark is something that none of you are yet ready to know. But I promise you that the time will come, and that you will understand why the things happening to you now are happening," said Amber. Sunset looked unsatisfied by this answer. Junior couldn't blame her. He also wondered why the Ark was so damn important and why the girls were being affected the way that they were. "In the meantime, I encourage you to learn how to hone these abilities that you have been blessed with. Because whether you like it or not, they will continue to act up if neglected," said Amber. Sunset sighed heavily as she turned away and began to walk from the curtain. Junior looked to Amber. "Are you trying to make me look bad?" asked Junior in annoyance. "I'm sorry, Junior. But it is not my father's will that they should know yet," said Amber. "Your fa- He's involved in this? Who is he?" asked Junior in annoyance. "In time, Junior. But you must be there for them, for they will be afraid and uncertain on what to do," said Amber. Junior bore an incredulous look. "I'm not even speaking to Twilight and the others! Even if I was still friends with them, what can I do? I'm just a delinquent who gets into trouble," said Junior. "Don't sell yourself short, Junior. You may not think much of yourself, but your friends think highly of you. It's why they counted on you to ask about the Ark. You care, and that's important to them. And you may hold a grudge against some of them, but I promise you that one day, you will need to count on them. This anger will not help you," said Amber. Junior merely hardened his eyes in response. He then proceeded to walk away, leaving Manda and Amber behind with the Ark. Soon, Junior was walking alongside Sunset through the forest. Sunset held her arm with a troubled look on her face. "I'm sorry, Sunset. I wish that there was more that I could do," said Junior. "There's something that you can do..." said Sunset as she glanced at Junior. "Name it," said Junior. "Promise you'll stick with us through whatever this is?" asked Sunset as she gently reached for Junior's wrist and held it. Junior felt her cold palm on his skin and felt the girl to be slightly shaking in fear. He was able to smell it off of her. Junior nodded to her with a soft expression as he held Sunset's hand firmly. "I promise," said Junior. Sunset softly smiled to herself, feeling comfort.