Mosura held coats in her arms as she waited in the lobby of the hospital. Walking with her were Angirasu and Fluttershy. They waited with smiles on their faces as they found the Dazzlings to be approaching with a doctor with them.
"Ugh. Finally we're leaving this place," said Aria in relief.
"Yes. The food was awful," said Adagio.
"Not to mention that being here was booorrriiinng!" said Sonata. She then scratched at her neck, where scars were visible just beneath the throat where her pendent was fused into. The three approached Mosura, who handed them coats.
"You may want to put these on. It's pretty chilly outside," said Mosura. The group soon began to exit the hospital, feeling the cold breeze.
"Hey, where are Goji and Rodan?" asked Sonata in curiosity.
"Rodan is at home looking after some guests of ours. Gojira left with Rarity to Manehattan for an art show last night," answered Angirasu.
"Really? I never took him as one to be into art," said Adagio in surprise. Mosura chuckled.
"He's also into reading. Remember, looks are deceptive," said Mosura.
"So are words," said Aria with a shrug.
"Yeah. Uh those too," said Mosura with a forced chuckle. The group continued through the town in silence. Adagio reached for her scarred neck. Memories of that day when she and her fellow Sirens lost their ability to sing haunted her. She bore a deep frown as she lowered her head.
"Hey, are you OK?" asked Angirasu. Adagio sighed.
"Not really," said Adagio.
Manehattan
The morning sun hung in the air. The city was bustling on this fine day and people were preparing for the holidays. Rarity led Junior and Azusa down the sidewalk. She was sporting a tan hat on her head that had a black ribbon wrapped around it. Her coat hugged her body and her skirt was flowing through the wind. Junior sighed as he felt his hair that was combed by Rarity, who claimed that he should at least make himself look presentable. He glanced to his side and found Azusa sporting some of Rarity's casual clothing, which comprised of tight grey jeans and a long sleeved white shirt. She was allowed to bring her own sweater, with at least having been washed the previous night. There was an awkward tension between the two Transmutants, which had been generated earlier in the morning. Azusa avoided eye contact with the male Transmutant. Junior turned his attention to Rarity.
"This place we're going to meet this guy. It's not one of the places that serve measly morsels of food is it?" asked Junior.
"No, this restaurant is surprisingly not that high class," said Rarity.
"Really? I wouldn't have guessed," said Junior in surprise.
"Oh yes. He expressed in his note how he wanted to try things of that people of the lower class tend to do," said Rarity with a smile.
"I think I heard the other high-class folks in Canterlot have a collective Aneurysm from that fact," said Junior with a chuckle. Azusa gave a short laugh while Rarity rolled her eyes. The group continued towards a Haytalian restaurant. They entered the establishment, finding a wide room filled with over a dozen tables covered by white cloths. People conversed as they ate pastas, pizzas, and other Haytalian dishes.
"Can I help you?" asked a female Garuda as she stood by a podium.
"Yes, we're here for the table under 'Fancy Pants'," said Rarity.
"Huh. Table of two. Is this gentleman and young lady with you?" asked the Garuda as she gestured to Junior and Azusa.
"Oh, yes. Sorry, they were last minute guests," said Rarity with a nervous laugh.
"Not a problem. A table for more than two recently opened up. We'll just move your party there," said the Garuda as she left the podium. "Right this way."
The Garuda led the trio through the restaurant. They soon found themselves at a table where an elf man with cyan hair and mustache. He bore a monocle over his eye, and a black suit. As Rarity said, he appeared to have been high class.
"Ah. Ms. Rarity, so good to see you again!" greeted Fancy Pants as he stood up from his seat and took Rarity's hand and planted a kiss on it. Rarity giggled as her face flushed.
"It's good to see you again, Fancy Pants. But do just call me Rarity."
"I say, I was not expecting more guests," said Fancy Pants as he turned his attention to the two Transmutants.
"Sorry. I had my dear friend here come along on the trip to help with the orders you made. Besides, he could use a vacation," said Rarity.
"Well, any friend of Rarity's is a friend of mine. Salutations," greeted Fancy Pants as he extended a hand to Junior.
"Uh hello. Gojira Takeshi the 2nd. Nice to meet you," greeted Junior as he shook Fancy Pant's hand.
"Ah yes. I do believe I heard of you. You seem to be the talk of Canterlot lately," said Fancy Pants.
"Yeaaah. I swear I don't normally assault royalty," said Junior with a forced laugh. He then cleared his throat as he noticed Fancy Pants did not crack a smile but merely bore a poker face.
"Right. I just do what I can to help when Revolutionaries or monsters attack. I have the scars to prove it," said Junior with a nervous smile.
"Dial back on personal bodily blemishes," whispered Rarity as she leaned closer to the Transmutant.
"And who is this young lady?" asked Fancy Pants. Azusa went stiff as the spotlight suddenly shone on her.
"A-Azusa. I'm uh..."
"She's my little sister," interjected Junior. Azusa looked at him in confusion.
"Pleasure to make your acquaintance, my dear," said Fancy Pants.
"Sir, we will have to move your party to another table that's suitable for its size," said the female Garuda as she deterred the greetings.
"Right then," said Fancy. The group was moved over towards a larger table. Junior and Azusa found themselves sitting across from each other while Rarity and Fancy Pants sat across from each other, with Rarity by Junior's side. The Garuda passed the menus to the group.
"I can start you all off with drinks while you decide what you want to order," said the Garuda. The group all requested drinks, allowing the Garuda to leave for the moment.
"Oh, thank god. They have meat," muttered Junior with a smile.
"Yeah," said Azusa with an eager expression.
"I look forward to the art show tomorrow, Fancy Pants," said Rarity.
"As do I, my dear. You know, I've heard a rather quaint area in Canterlot that may be perfect for you to open up a second boutique," said Fancy Pants.
"Really? That sounds wonderful! I've always worried that it'd be difficult to find a vacant building for a new boutique. Though I will need to come up with the money to purchase it," said Rarity.
"Wait, you're thinking of opening up another boutique? In Canterlot?" asked Junior.
"Why yes! It's been my dream to do so for years!" said Rarity with a grin. Azusa smiled.
"That's right, you do..." Azusa's voice trailed off as she noticed the attention she drew.
"Hmm? I what?" asked Rarity in curiosity.
"Um... You do... You do seem like you're capable of opening a boutique in Canterlot! You did show me some of your neat designs, which I think creativity is the magic bolt for your dream," said Azusa with a smile. Junior raised a brow at how the girl seemed as though she was going to say something else. He shrugged it off as her not being used to speaking out among strangers.
"Thank you, darling!" said Rarity. Junior cleared his throat as he placed his menu down.
"Well, I'm gonna order the sausage and pepperoni pizza," said Junior. Azusa dropped her menu as well.
"Same," said Azusa.
"Mr. Takeshi, you say you fight these Transmutant Revolutionaries, correct?" asked Fancy pants.
"That's right," said Junior with a nod.
"I'd like your opinion. You seem more acquainted with our enemies, what is their motivation?" asked Fancy Pants.
"Well, from what I learned, their leader is a psychopath hellbent on getting revenge on my family because of an old feud between our clans from over twenty years ago. He pretty much uses discrimination against Transmutants as his tool to gain followers and puts on a facade as a liberator when he's really fighting for his own interests," said Junior as he scratched his head.
"Other Revolutionaries, some I think might be almost as twisted as he is, while others are just afraid and see the group as the only power to keep them safe," said Junior.
"Interesting," said Fancy Pants with a nod.
"Yeah. You learn a lot about your enemies when you fight them long enough," said Junior.
"Well, I do hope you intend to continue to do so against these villains. Equestria is counting on you," said Fancy Pants with a smile. Junior nodded to him.
"Of course," said Junior.
Later...
The table was filled with empty plates. Small crumbs and sauces littered the dishes. A silver disk containing sausage bits sat on it. Azusa sighed as she slumped in her seat with a look of content.
"I'm stuffed," said Azusa.
"I bet. You have an appetite, kid," said Junior in amusement. Rarity wiped her lips with a napkin as she placed her silverware on the side.
"That was exquisite. Much better than the measly morsels served in the establishments I've been to back in Canterlot," said Fancy Pants with a sigh. Junior glanced at Rarity with a smirk.
"Told ya. Like hell I'd pay fifty bits for a small clump of food covered in sauce," said Junior.
"Right, my good man," said Fancy Pants with a chuckle. He took out a bag of bits and began to pour the coins into a metal pan that bore the check for the food.
"Why don't I chip in? I mean, it was supposed to be just you and Rarity before," said Junior as he took out his own bag of bits.
"Nonsense, dear boy. It's my treat," said Fancy Pants.
"You sure? I wouldn't wanna mooch off you for brunch," said Junior.
"Save your money. Perhaps you may find a souvenir here to bring home," said Fancy Pants with a smile. Junior bore a reluctant smile of his own as he placed his bits away.
"If you insist," said Junior. Fancy Pants stood to his feet.
"Well, it's been pleasant meeting you again and another one of your friends, Rarity. I look forward to seeing you tomorrow," said Fancy Pants.
"Thank you! As do I," said Rarity with a nod. Fancy Pants started to leave the restaurant, leaving the rest to bask in the satisfaction from their meals. Azusa stretched her arms as she yawned.
"What's next?" asked Azusa.
"Well, I'll have to get those orders that Fancy Pants made before the end of our stay here. So, we'll head back to the hotel," said Rarity.
"Great. Time to play the mannequin," said Junior in reluctance.
Rarity hummed to herself as she carried a needle pin in her mouth as she wore her red glasses. She began to look at the suit that Junior was wearing from every angle. The Transmutant stood by stiffly with his arms spread out.
"Alright. Buttons are properly placed, the sleeves are neatly sewed. How do you feel, Gojira?" asked Rarity.
"I'm getting a little hot. But the suit is comfortable," said Junior.
"Oh dear. We can't have you sweating with this suit on. Azusa, be a dear and turn down the heater please," said Rarity. The younger Transmutant tore her eyes away from a book and began to stand up. As she made her way to the air conditioner, she glanced at Rarity and Junior. She watched as the elf placed the finishing touches on the first suit that was ordered. Needles levitated around Junior in a blue aura, diving themselves into the suit to add pockets and collars. Azusa had managed to turn down the heater, but her lack of attention caused her to fail to notice how low it was made.
"There we are! One down, five more to go!" said Rarity. Junior moaned in disappointment.
"Who has a need for that many suits?" asked Junior.
"Don't fret, darling. We'll be done before you know it!" said Rarity. Junior handed her the coat, the black khakis, and the collar shirt. She took them and walked out of the room. Junior was left in a pair of thin shorts and a tank top.
"My dad never liked to wear suits either," said Azusa as she sat on the sofa. Junior glanced at her, surprised to hear the girl to have spoken to him since the awkward incident earlier in the morning.
"Is that so? Can you blame us? I hate formalities. The suits themselves make me hot as well," said Junior.
"Yeah. I sometimes feel the same way about dresses. I mean, I just don't think they look good on me," said Azusa. Junior hummed to himself as he looked the girl over.
"I think you'd look nice in a dress," said Junior. Azusa looked at him in surprise.
"R-Really?" asked Azusa.
"Sure. I know some girls that weren't ones who'd wear formal attire. They aren't exactly as girly like the others, but they looked good in dresses," said Junior. Azusa looked at him in offense.
"Hey, are you saying I'm not girly?" questioned Azusa.
"No, I just thought you may have been worried that your hairstyle and attitude may clash with formal attire," said Junior. He sat down on the other sofa with a smile.
"That highlight in your hair. I think it's cute. Is it natural?" asked Junior. Amber cheeks lightly flushed as she held a few locks of her hair.
"Yeah. I inherited it from my mother," said Azusa. She then looked at Junior with curious eyes.
"Um... Hey, what's with that locket?" asked Azusa.
"Hmm? Oh. Yeah, my girlfriend gave it to me yesterday before I left town," said Junior as he held the locket. "She placed a picture of herself inside of it," said Junior with a smile as he opened the locket.
"Can I... Can I see it?" asked Azusa. Junior nodded to her as he moved to her sofa and sat beside her. He held the locket up and allowed Azusa to have a clearer visual of Twilight Sparkle. She sat against a wall as she held her hands on her lap and looked to the camera's point of view with a warm smile. Azusa lightly smiled.
"She's just as pretty before then now," muttered Azusa to herself. Junior raised a brow.
"What was that?" asked Junior.
"I uh... I said she's pretty!" said Azusa. Junior smiled to himself.
"To me, she's more than that," said Junior. Azusa smiled at his words. A girl was lucky to have someone who held her looks in high regard by that special somebody. She then lightly frowned as she lowered her head.
"Do you two ever have any problems in your relationship?" asked Azusa. Junior raised a brow at her question.
"Huh? Well... We sometimes have disagreements on things. We even had arguments. But none as bad as before we were together," said Junior. He looked at the picture in the locket.
"But I guess the main obstacle is just me worrying about messing things up with her. I love her, but I'm far from perfect. I wonder if she worries about the same thing," said Junior.
"Well, don't give up! If you really love her, then you'd work hard for her!" said Azusa. Junior glanced at her and was surprised to find her giving him an intense look.
"Hey, why does my relationship with her matter to you anyway?" asked Junior. Azusa went stiff.
"I uh... I just..." Azusa sighed. She looked away from him with a look of dejection.
"Well, my parents. You see, I haven't seen my dad since I was five. I'm fifteen now. I don't know why, but my mom doesn't seem to talk about him a lot. Whenever I bring him up, things get awkward with her and some family friends that knew him. I feel like maybe... They separated and just never told me," said Azusa as she lowered her head. Junior lightly frowned in response.
"So, is that why you ran away? You’re angry at your parents for not telling you anything about this?" asked Junior.
"Not exactly. I ran away because... I'm trying to look for my dad," said Azusa. She held her arms and leaned back on the sofa.
"Mom would never tell me where he was. So, I started looking around for him. I can't rest until I find him," said Azusa.
"What are you gonna do when you find him? You at least have a plan for that, right?" asked Junior. He hoped the girl at least thought some of this through since she was roaming the streets for days without money and food.
"I'm going to ask him why he left. I'm going to ask him if he still loves mom... And me," muttered Azusa. She broke into a soft sob as she covered her eyes.
"I just... I wanna know why he'd just leave us like that and never show up again! Does he not love us anymore?!" cried Azusa. Junior deeply frowned at the girl's state. It was understandable that she was in such a vulnerable state. To feel unloved by one or both of your parents could be the worst thing for a child. Junior placed a comforting hand on the girl's shoulder. He then flinched in surprise as the girl immediately wrapped her arms around him and leaned her head against his shoulder. Junior caressed her head as she wept.
"It's gonna be OK. I'm sure your dad still loves you and your mom. True fathers always love their sons and daughters," said Junior in a soft tone. Azusa sniffled to herself as she lightly smiled. She closed her eyes as she allowed the male Transmutant comfort her and stroke her head, just like she imagined her father would.
"You think so?" asked Azusa. Junior nodded to her.
"Definitely. I bet he thinks about you two every day," said Junior. Azusa sniffled as she snuggled against his shoulder.
"I just wish my parents were honest about it with me," said Azusa.
"Well, maybe you should properly confront your mother about it. Tell her how it's hurting you inside to be kept in the dark," said Junior. Azusa removed herself from Junior's shoulder and wiped her cheeks. She nodded to him as she gave him a smile.
"Atta girl," said Junior as he brought his hand over her head and began to ruffle her hair. Azusa lightly gasped at the action. Her mind wandered to an old memory. A man smiled as he ruffled her hair the same way when she was a little girl. Azusa's mind returned to the present. She smiled with nostalgia as warmth built up in her chest from the affection being shown to her.
From the bedroom, Rarity was peeking through a crack. She sniffled as she wiped a few tears away and looked on that scene with a smile. Junior displayed a nurturing quality within himself that she recalled seeing once during Hearth's Warming Eve. She often wondered where that side of him came from, but it was nice to see it a second time. She then slightly shivered.
"Oh. It's getting cold," said Rarity as she huddled her shoulders.
"I don't think this is a good idea," said Angirasu with a deadpanned stare. He was standing with the Sirens, Pinkie and Rainbow Dash. They watched as Rodan sneaked into a pen that contained a bull.
"Of course not. That's what makes it fun!" said Rodan as he turned back to look at Angirasu.
"Well, I'll be sure to give a good speech at your funeral," said Aria as she crossed her arms.
"You sure you want to do that, Rodan? He looks ferocious," said Sonata with a nervous expression as she stared at the bull's horns.
"Please, I've taken on a dragon and manticores. This guy is nothing," said Rodan.
"Just give him a quick smack and run like the wind, Rodan," said Pinkie.
"Man, I think this is stupid. But I can't resist watching the extreme," said Rainbow with a look of excitement. Rodan chuckled as he began to sneak up on the bull that fed on the hay. He reared his hand back and then slapped the animal's rump. The bull gave a shrill moo as he felt the smack. Rodan turned and broke off into a sprint.
"Come on! Run! Run! Run!" cried everyone outside of the pen. Rodan laughed as he outran the bull. He leapt over the fence and landed on the ground, while the bull began to groan as he came to a stop.
"Boo-yeah!" said Rodan.
"You idiot," said Angirasu as he slugged Rodan in the shoulder.
"That was soooo intense! I thought you were gonna die!" said Sonata. Rainbow sighed as she handed Pinkie five bits.
"You win," said Rainbow. Rodan looked at her with wide eyes.
"Wait, you bet against me?!" exclaimed Rodan. Rainbow gave him a nervous smile as she shrugged in response. The bull flared his nostrils as he stared at the red on Rodan. He then noticed the broken lock that was on the fence's door. The bull trotted over towards the lock and thrust his horn against the lock, lifting it up. The door opened with a creak. Aria went stiff as her ears picked up the sound. She turned and found the bull pawing at the ground as he glared at them.
"Um... We may want to run. Like right now," said Aria as she began to step a few steps back. The rest of the group turned to the side and their eyes widened in horror as they found the bull free.
"Uh oh," said Pinkie with wide eyes. The bull mooed as he began to charge towards the group, who all gave panicked cries as they scattered.
"I just left the hospital!!" cried Sonata as she ran with all the speed that she could muster.
Meanwhile back in Manehattan...
Junior shivered as he stood while Rarity sewed a suit that was being fitted on him. Rarity looked at him in curiosity.
"Something wrong?" asked Rarity.
"I feel like Rodan just did something incredibly stupid," said Junior in thought. Rarity snorted.
"Do you have like a sixth sense or something?" asked Rarity with a raised brow. Junior shrugged.
"Sometimes I wonder," said Junior.
Meanwhile back in Ponyville.
..
Angirasu winced as Fluttershy wrapped a bandage around his head.
"Sorry. Good news, your injuries aren't that bad. Just a couple scratches and bruises," said Fluttershy with a smile. Angirasu grunted as he popped his wrist. The Sirens sat in the living room of the cottage with traumatized expressions. Sonata gave nervous laughs as she shook in place.
"He had really pointy horns," said Sonata.
"Hey, whatever happened to Rodan, Pinkie and Rainbow Dash?" asked Fluttershy in curiosity.
"Pinkie went home. Wherever Rodan and Rainbow are, let's just hope that where they are, Mosura will have mercy on them," said Angirasu with a shudder.
"Oh my," said Fluttershy with wide eyes.
"I could be exaggerating, but she definitely will punish them for being the brains of such a stupid idea," said Angirasu. Fluttershy gave him a smile.
"I'm happy that you somehow managed to stop the bull without killing him," said Fluttershy as she gently brought her hand down on Angirasu's. The Transmutant cleared his throat as he looked away and cleared his throat.
"It was no problem. All I did was put him in a sleeper hold," said Angirasu. He rubbed his head as he recalled the pain he suffered from trying to stop the bull. He then glanced at his hand and found Fluttershy's soft pale skin against his own. The tenderness of her touch drove him into a nervous frenzy.
"Angirasu, there's something I want to ask you," said Fluttershy as she brushed her hair away from her eyes.
"Sure. Ask me anything," said Angirasu.
"Would you... Would you like to go out...with me?" asked Fluttershy. Angirasu's eyes slightly widened in response. He swore that he nearly felt his heart stop.
"I... I uh..." Angirasu was unable to respond. Sure, he had lunch a few times with the Valkyrie, but he never considered them dates. As much as he wanted them to be, Angirasu always assumed they were mostly going to lunch as friends rather than as smitten partners.
"I'm sorry. Maybe that was wrong of me to ask," said Fluttershy as she turned away. Angirasu's eyes widened as he felt her pulling away.
"I mean, I guess I'm not the right girl that you-" Fluttershy was interrupted as she felt Angirasu firmly grabbed her hand. She turned back to face him as he stared at his hand intensely.
'I can't let her go now. This is my chance,' thought Angirasu. He feared that if he were to back down now, he would never be able to confess to the girl he had fallen for. He knew that if Junior and Rodan were capable, then so was he.
"Fluttershy, I would love to go out with you. My only regret is that I never asked you sooner," said Angirasu as he looked at Fluttershy with a soft smile. The Valkyrie gasped as her eyes brightened up. Her lips curled into a smile that made Angirasu's heart pound like tribal drum beats. It was the most beautiful smile that he had seen, and he was responsible for it.
"Wh-What do you want to do?" asked Fluttershy with a look of excitement. Her mood was contagious, making Angirasu grow excited with her.
"I don't know. I... I wasn't planning on any- Wait! I remember Rodan giving me a few ideas before," said Angirasu. Fluttershy squealed in delight as she wrapped her arms around the Transmutant.
Rodan and Rainbow Dash both groaned in annoyance as they worked to clean up the kitchen of the Transmutant lair. They bore sponges and scrub brushes in their hands as they scrubbed dirt away from the kitchen surfaces. Mosura walked into the kitchen with a look of disapproval.
"Maybe next time you'll think twice before doing something stupid like slapping a bull," said Mosura. Rainbow and Rodan both remained silent as they scowled. Mosura sighed.
"You two just finish up here. I'm gonna go take Sunset shopping for clothes," said Mosura as she left the kitchen. As Rainbow and Rodan heard the front door open and close, Rodan sighed.
"Damn. I wish Mosu wasn't so uptight," said Rodan.
"Yeah. She's too careful. There's no fun with her," said Rainbow in agreement.
"Oh. I see that there are a couple unsatisfied kids here about their reality," said a familiar voice with an echo. Rainbow's eyes widened as she spotted Discord replacing her reflection in the bucket of water next to her. She yelped as the Spirit of Chaos appeared before her in full size.
"Oh crap!" yelped Rodan. Rainbow sent Discord a look of annoyance, displeased with the Draconequus's presence.
"What are you doing here, Dipcord?" asked Rainbow.
"Just thought I'd pay my friends another quick visit! But I couldn't help but overhear that you weren't pleased with Mosura's cautious nature," said Discord as he filed his eagle claws.
"You get us though, right? I mean, how can we have fun if she's getting on us what we feel is fun?" asked Rodan. Discord shrugged.
"Yeah, I can relate. But have you thought of what would it be like if she were more daring like both of you?" asked Discord. Rainbow and Rodan glanced at each other, filled with interest.
"I think she would be a lot more interesting if she was," chuckled Rainbow. Discord snapped his fingers, causing a tear in space, acting as a window to another world.
"Watch the alternate reality window," said Discord with a mischievous smile. As told, Rainbow and Rodan gave the window their full attention. They found themselves lazing about on a sofa. The alternate reality version of the two sighed.
"I'm soooo bored!" said Rainbow in exasperation.
"Yeah. Hey, wanna go slap a bull or something?" asked Rodan. The sound of footsteps filled their ears, prompting them to turn and find Mosura arriving at the sofa.
"Hey! You two look bored. Why don't we do something fun?" suggested Mosura with a bright smile.
"What did you have in mind?" asked Rainbow in curiosity. Mosura bore a large grin. Soon, the three found themselves deeper in the Everfree forest. They were hidden behind a boulder as they stared into a large cave, where a green dragon slept with a hoard of gems. Rainbow and Rodan stood by with wide eyes as Mosura smiled with glee.
"We're gonna slap the dragon and run away," said Mosura.
"Yeah. I don't think that this is a good idea," said Rainbow with a nervous expression. Mosura scoffed.
"Don't be a chicken! I'll tell you what, I know a thing or two about fun to the extreme!" said Mosura as she plucked a feather from Rainbow's wing.
"Ow!" yelped Rainbow as she shot Mosura a glare.
"And I'll tell you another thing! I know a thing or two about a thing or two!" said Mosura as she slapped Rodan on his shoulder.
"What does that even mean?" asked Rodan in confusion.
"Doesn't matter! We're gonna have fun today! Don't any of you bring me down!" said Mosura with a glare. She then hopped over the boulder and sneaked towards the great beast. Rainbow and Rodan gritted their teeth as they watched Mosura approach the large reptile. The sound of a hard slap echoed throughout the cave. Rainbow and Rodan cupped their ears as the dragon an enraged roar. Mosura ran passed them as she laughed maniacally.
"Run or you'll die!" laughed Mosura. Rainbow and Rodan gasped as the dragon came charging out of the cave while spewing flames. The two screamed as they ran away from the dragon. As they caught up to Mosura, she was still laughing.
"Run! Ruuuun!! He's gonna get you!" yelled Mosura with a cackle.
"Shut up!!" cried Rodan and Rainbow in unison as they were chased through the Everfree forest. Trees fell over and caught on fire as the dragon pursued them.
As the vision ended, Discord closed the alternate reality window. Rainbow and Rodan both trembled with fear as their minds replayed the vision. It was as though a demon was in control of their friend, hell bent on destroying them with insane extreme stunts that only an idiot would perform.
"Why would you show us that?!" demanded Rodan. Discord shrugged.
"You asked," said Discord. He then snapped his claws and disappeared in a flash. Rainbow and Rodan glanced at each other with nervous laughs.
"Well, I guess it's a good thing Mosura is giving us crap for what we did after all," said Rodan.
"Yeah. Anything is better than what we saw," said Rainbow in agreement.
"Let's finish cleaning up!" said Rodan as he got on his knees and scrubbed the ground.
Later that day...
Angirasu was walking beside Fluttershy into town. The Transmutant bore a nervous expression as he walked closely beside Fluttershy. Normally he would be calm, but he grew anxious whenever he was close to the young Valkyrie.
Fluttershy fared no better. Her heart gave quick beats in her chest as she held the Transmutant's hand. They were rough compared to her smooth hands, a sign of the two's vast different lifestyles. She was but a gentle flower while Angirasu was a courageous beast that fought to defend her and the whole town. As the two continued through the town, a few curious stares were made towards them. A couple of looks of disdain were directed at the two for their taboo relationship development. Fluttershy ignored their stares, although a bit timidly. She tightened her hold on Angirasu's hand, refusing to deny her own feelings for him because of their disapproval.
"Um... I think you're squeezing too tight," said Angirasu as he glanced at Fluttershy. Her eyes widened as a gasp escaped her mouth. She immediately released his hand with a worried expression.
"I'm sorry! Did I hurt you?" asked Fluttershy.
"No, of course not. I was just worried if something was wrong," said Angirasu. Fluttershy lamely shook her head. She then looked away.
"Well... I uh... No, never mind. Let's go," said Fluttershy, backing down from her thought and taking Angirasu's hand again. The two went back on their journey until they were at a movie theater.
"So, what movie would you like to see?" asked Angirasu.
"Oh. Are you sure that you want me to pick?" asked Fluttershy. Angirasu nodded in response.
"Sure. Go ahead," said Angirasu. Fluttershy turned to the posters that were outside of the theater and began to scan through them with an intense stare.
"No pressure," said Angirasu. Fluttershy smiled in embarrassment but then went back to her search.
'Hmm. I bet she'll choose something about animals,' thought Angirasu with a smile.
"How about this one?" asked Fluttershy. Angirasu's eyes widened in surprise as he saw the poster. A man with black hair and a leather suit was on the poster. He had hands of mechanical blades as a young woman hugged him from behind his back. Fluttershy was looking at the poster with a smile while Angirasu looked at her in confusion.
"Rarity said that this movie was actually romantic and enjoyable to watch," said Fluttershy.
"So... The guy on the poster doesn't creep you out?" asked Angirasu.
"Maybe a little with those hands and scars. But when you look at his face on here, he doesn't look like a bad guy," said Fluttershy with a soft smile. Angirasu lightly smiled at her analysis. He then nodded.
"Sure, we'll see that," said Angirasu as he and Fluttershy made their way over to the box office.
"Tickets are on me," said Angirasu.
"You sure? I can pay for my own if that's alright," said Fluttershy.
"I insist," said Angirasu. Fluttershy looked away.
"Technically I asked you out first. So, shouldn't I pay for both of us?" asked Fluttershy in thought. Angirasu's eyes slightly widened.
'I can't make her pay for both of us! That wouldn't be right! Ugh. What can I do to fix this?' thought Angirasu in urgency. He liked how kind the Valkyrie could be, but sometimes he felt that she might have been a little too nice for certain situations. He then thought to what Rodan had given him a tip on if he were to ever go on a date.
"Let's compromise," said Angirasu. Fluttershy looked at him curiously.
"Compromise? How?" asked Fluttershy.
"If you feel that strongly to buy your own ticket, you can. I'll buy my own. But when we're inside, I'll pay for the snacks for both of us," said Angirasu. Fluttershy looked down in thought as she wagered the fairness of the compromise. She then nodded to him with a smile.
"Mmhm!"
Angirasu smiled in response. The two payed for their own tickets and entered the theater.
Fluttershy and Angirasu sat together in the movie theater with over a dozen other people. The two shared a popcorn bucket as they watched the film. A scene where the man with scissor hands cut the fur of the neighborhood's pets was shown. Fluttershy bore a large smile as she watched the scene play out. Although at first, she was worried that the man would accidentally cut the dogs. But there seemed to be no such incident so far. Angirasu smiled to himself, feeling a warmth in his chest by being on a date with the girl. As he reached into the bucket for another handful of popcorn, he felt Fluttershy's hand. He heard her give a soft gasp of surprise. He turned and found Fluttershy looking at him with flushed cheeks.
"Sorry!" whispered Fluttershy. Angirasu merely smiled at her as he moved his hand.
"It's alright. You go ahead," said Angirasu. The Valkyrie smiled bashfully as she reached into the bucket and grabbed a handful of popcorn. As the two continued to watch the movie, the main character and the daughter of the family that had taken him in was at the point of falling in love. Fluttershy glanced at Angirasu and found him to be enjoying the movie. She smiled to herself, pleased that neither of them was bored on this date. Her heart pumped fast in her chest as she scooted closer to the Transmutant and leaned against his shoulder. Angirasu's heart jumped at the action but he composed himself.
'If she seems to be snuggling close, that's your chance to wrap an arm around her!' Rodan's voice echoed in Angirasu's mind. The Transmutant glanced at Fluttershy with an unsure expression.
'But would it really be alright? I don't want to scare her,' thought Angirasu. He then heard an annoyed groan in his mind.
'Just do it, you wuss!' Rodan's voice echoed in Angirasu's mind again. The tone filled with annoyance.
'Yeah, he would say something like that,' thought Angirasu. He then swallowed his worry and carefully brought his arm around Fluttershy. The Valkyrie snuggled against her as her heart steadily beat in her chest.
The day was growing later. The movie had ended and Angirasu and Fluttershy were walking close together down the road.
"What did you think about the movie?" asked Angirasu.
"I loved it. I mean, I'm sad that the main character and the girl didn't get together in the end, but it was a bitter sweet ending. You?" asked Fluttershy. Angirasu nodded to her.
"I liked it too. I really like the sets for the mansion and the costume design," said Angirasu. He then glanced at Fluttershy.
"So... Do you want to do something else or would you rather I walk you home?" asked Angirasu. He was hoping the Valkyrie would choose the former so he could spend a little more time with her.
"Well... Could you walk me home? We can have dinner together," said Fluttershy with a smile. Angirasu nodded to her.
"That sounds nice. I'll help you cook," said Angirasu. After the two spent the hour heading Fluttershy's cottage, they were present in the kitchen. After the two cooked mashed potatoes and a side of salad, they were present at the table. The two sat across from each other eating. Meanwhile, the Dazzlings were walking out towards the front door.
"Wait, where are you three off to?" asked Angirasu.
"We're just going out for a walk. Don't worry, we already ate. You love birds just enjoy your dinner~," sang Adagio as she winked at the two. Angirasu gave a small embarrassed chuckle while Fluttershy hid in her seat. Sonata gave Angirasu a small wave as she followed the other Sirens out the door. As the trio left, Angirasu and Fluttershy were left all alone. After the two had finished eating, they found themselves sitting on the sofa together. The setting Sun's light shone through the window. The twilight was upon the land.
"It's so beautiful," sighed Fluttershy. Angirasu glanced at where she was looking and found the scenery.
"Yeah. You get a great view of the sunset in your neighborhood. All we get is more darkness in the Everfree forest," said Angirasu.
"Well, I do get sort of scared when it gets darker. The night can be...scary," gulped Fluttershy.
"I can see why. There's more field out here and a lack of artificial lighting on the road," said Angirasu. Fluttershy nodded in response.
"Yeah. There could be a Timber wolf or some sort of monster lurking out here at night. I try to avoid leaving my cottage when it's late," said Fluttershy. She sighed.
"Hey. If you ever need someone to look after you, just call me. I'd be happy to do that," said Angirasu. Fluttershy smiled warmly at him at his offer. She found his caring nature to be quite charming.
"Thank you. You know... I really... I like you," said Fluttershy in hesitation.
"I like you too," said Angirasu. Fluttershy took a breath as she attempted to calm herself.
"No. I mean I like-like you," said Fluttershy with flushing cheeks. Angirasu looked away.
"Well I-" Angirasu's voice slightly cracked as he began to speak. He cleared his throat.
"I... I like-like you too. I've... Liked you that way for a while now," said Angirasu. Fluttershy's heart skipped a beat as she found out that he shared her feelings. She brought her hand on Angirasu's as she called his name. The two shared a gaze as they held each other's hand. Their breathing was soft but their heart beats were fast and threatened to give in from the excitement the two felt. The two leaned closer to each other, feeling each other's breath until their lips made contact with each other. A small quick kiss was made, and the two slightly pulled away from each other.
"I'm sorry! I should've asked if it was alright!" said Angirasu as he turned away.
"No! No, I don't mind," said Fluttershy as she scooted closer to Angirasu. She brought her hands over the Transmutants cheeks and pulled his head to face her. Her eyes were half open as she leaned closer to him.
"I want to kiss you again. If that's alright with you," whispered Fluttershy. Angirasu lamely nodded, unable to give a fully motivated response. The last small kiss nearly drained him. As Fluttershy came in for another kiss, Angirasu's breaths quickened. The two locked lips again, but this kiss lasted a few seconds longer. Fluttershy's cheeks grew brighter with her blush as she tasted Angirasu's own breath. Her heart danced in her chest and she felt as though she were in a wonderful forest on a beautiful spring day. As she pulled away, her eyes widened. Angirasu was furiously blushing but his intake of air was quick. The Transmutant was hyperventilating.
"Oh, my goodness!" cried Fluttershy with a look of panic. She shot up to her feet and rushed to the kitchen. As the sound crashing filled the air, she returned with a paper bag.
"Breathe slowly into the bag!" said Fluttershy as she gave the Transmutant the bag. Angirasu started to breathe into the bag as he slowly regained his normal breathing. Fluttershy sighed in relief as Angirasu breathed normally.
"Thank you," said Angirasu. Fluttershy nodded to him with a smile. After a couple of seconds, the two began to share a few chuckles. These chuckles than escalated into full blown laughter. The two began to settle down.
'And here I thought I was shy,' thought Fluttershy with a warm smile.
"Hey, Fluttershy?" called Angirasu.
"Yes?" answered Fluttershy.
"Would you... Would you be my special somebody?" asked Angirasu. Fluttershy gave him a bright smile.
"I... Yes! I would love to!" said Fluttershy as she wrapped the Transmutant into a hug. From outside, the Dazzlings were peeking through the window of the cottage.
"What a dork. He hyperventilated from a kiss," smirked Aria.
"I think it's cute. Not every day you see a seemingly strong guy react that way," said Adagio. Sonata looked on with a bitter smile.
"She's so lucky," said Sonata. Aria sighed as she patted the girl on the shoulder.
"Come on. They'll be other guys," said Aria in reassurance. Sonata nodded but ultimately held envy for the Valkyrie.
Manehattan...
It was late evening. Junior was standing with a drowsy look on his face as Rarity sewed the suit around his body. Azusa was lying on her back on the mattress. She snuggled in her bed with a small sigh. It was pleasant to lie in a bed while wrapped in blankets as opposed to sleeping in the streets during the night. She then turned her gaze on Junior as he dosed off as he stood up. Her expression grew soft as she kept her eyes on him.
"Let's call it a night dear. We can continue tomorrow," said Rarity as she removed the coat from Junior. The Transmutant lazily nodded as he removed the rest of the clothes and handed them to Rarity. As she left the living room, Junior collapsed on the couch with a yawn. Azusa lightly smiled in amusement at his action. Rarity had returned with a blanket and gently placed it over Junior.
"Thanks Rarity," mumbled Junior as he rested his head on a pillow.
"Good night," whispered Rarity as she began to leave the room. After she turned off the light, she headed off to her room. Azusa kept her eyes on Junior as he lied on the couch, waiting to drift off to sleep.
"Gojira?" whispered Azusa. No response came from the male Transmutant. Instead, a snore filled the air.
"Wow. Who falls asleep that fast?" asked Azusa in surprise. Quietly, she stood up from her mattress and approached Junior with quiet steps. She sat on the couch beside him and stared at his sleeping face. She then reached into her shirt and pulled out her own Takeshi medallion. She looked at it and sighed. Azusa then placed on a firm expression. She brought one of her fingers up and sprouted a black claw from it. Azusa brought the claw over to Junior's hand with the claw hovering inches over it. She gulped as her hand shakily hovered over Junior's. With a quick stroke, she cut the palm of the male Transmutant. Junior's brows slightly crinkled but he then relaxed. Azusa took her medallion and brought it over Junior's palm and caused him to smear some of his blood onto the metal. She then gently pulled the medallion away with it slightly stained with the blood of Junior. As she turned her eyes to the object, the blood gave a soft neon blue glow as it appeared to seep into the metal. After a second, the blood had disappeared and the glow died down. Azusa turned her gaze to Junior's palm and found it to be slowly healing. The girl sighed to herself and sneaked back over to her mattress and hid her medallion in her pillow case. With that done, she lied in bed and decided to sleep.