Hayato Yoshi was standing before a group of people in a large room at computer consoles in the Alpha base of MONARCH. He stood by a screen where the president was depicted, while a few high ranking members of the organization stood with Yoshi.
"And we don't know the reason for the anomaly that night?" asked the president.
"No, Mr. President. But based on eye witness account, about half of the country was able to witness the anomaly," said Hayato.
"There is another thing, sir," said a man as he stepped forward, dressed in a lab coat.
"About a number of people in the Southern and Western part of Equestria claimed that they experienced intense sneezing, burning of throat, nausea, and burning of lips," said the scientist.
"All of this during the anomaly?" asked Hayato.
"Yes. Based on that, we believe that these two are linked. By a common cause," said the scientist as footage from Christmas Eve was shown to everyone present. The footage was essentially found on the internet of someone filming, coughing over the footage while freaking out at the sky. An amoeba-like object was expanding across the sky in a slow pace.
"Dear God," said the president in shock. The footage ended and was replaced by satellite images.
"Based on these images taken via satellite, we found that whatever happened is alarming," said the scientist. The images changed to a filter, showing that the epicenter of the amoeba was below freezing temperatures, as the land below it shared the temperature. There were also orange masses highlighted from the amoeba that appeared to be flowing out.
"Based on these images, the anomaly was having an effect on a portion of the planet's atmosphere. Temperatures in the epicenter dropped dramatically just below freezing. And most frightening, foreign gases invaded our atmosphere, what we believe was the cause of the allergenic-like symptoms that half the country experienced. We also believe that these gases caused the change in the sky's appearance," said the scientist.
"The atmosphere?!" asked the president in shock.
"That's impossible. How could that happen?" asked Hayato.
"We don't know. But the object deteriorated shortly after the process, and the gases and temperature changes subsided. But I fear that if it hadn't, the entire planet's atmosphere would have been changed completely. And I doubt life on the planet would survive the change," said the scientist. He then bore a grim look.
"And based on our scans, that thing in the sky was biological," said the scientist. Everyone began to speak expressing concern. Hayato bore a hard expression as he stood in silence.
"How could this happened? What caused this?" asked a man.
"I believe that what happened wasn't a freakish anomaly. I hypothesize that what happened was caused deliberately," said the scientist.
"And who or what is responsible?" asked Hayato.
"That is the million dollar question, Director," said the scientist. Hayato bore a hard expression as he stared at the images, with his stomach tight and uneasy by being faced by this unknown threat.
Twilight was standing silently as she stared at the moth fairy that was perched on a rock in the forest. With her were the rest of the Main Six, including Sunset and the Dazzlings. Junior was standing by a tree as he stared at his cell phone. Fluttershy was glancing at the boy as he stood alone, wearing the scarf that she had given him for Christmas. She lightly blushed to herself as she bore a pleased smile. She then shook her head and stood at attention as Amber cleared her throat.
"So, now that you girls have these powers, you must know how to control and hone them to your advantage," said Amber. She erected her fur and antennae as she flared her torn slightly damaged wings.
"You must know how to use them to conquer your foes! You must not be afraid to use your powers and use them to make them hurt and to yield in fear of your wrath!" said Amber, causing the girls to flinch at her growing tone.
"But I don't really want to hurt anyone," said Fluttershy in a small tone.
"If it helps, think of it as self-defense lessons involving special abilities," said Amber.
"So these powers, are they permanent?" asked Adagio in curiosity.
"Oh yes. They will remain with you until your passing," said Amber in a nonchalant tone.
"Cool!" said Rainbow with a grin.
"Yeah, just like herpes," said Junior as he fiddled with his phone. Some the girls looked at Junior with narrowed eyes at the distasteful comment. Aria merely snickered.
"Can they be passed on? Like if any of us were to have kids, would they have powers?" asked Sunset.
"No. These powers aren't really affecting you biologically. Not in the way that you'd think. The spirit gem affects all things of in the souls of those it comes to contact with. You are affected in spiritual level that has enhanced your body that may show signs in your physical and mental prowess, but it cannot be passed on. These abilities were not earned either, they were given," said Amber. Sunset was standing next to Twilight as the petite girl wrote down notes.
"Interesting..." said Twilight.
"You're taking notes?" asked Junior incredulously.
"Yeah. It's important to know exactly what we're dealing with. This could also provide a lot of scientific discoveries," said Twilight with an eager look.
"Twilight, this is a supernatural phenomena. It isn't like math or physics, which are bound by natural laws. This is something that your science can not comprehend," said Amber. Twilight narrowed her eyes.
"That sounds like a challenge!" said Twilight.
"It's not. Don't argue with the magical bug," deadpanned Junior. He then groaned as he clenched his phone in his hand.
"God, I fucking hate typing with one hand!" said Junior as he glared at his stump, which had formed a scaly wrist and forearm. His arm was nearly fully regenerated but it was taking forever.
"OK. So are we ready girls?" asked Amber.
"Ready," said the girls in unison.
"Rarity! Project!" said Amber. Rarity flinched as all eyes focused on her.
"Oh! Right! Um..." Rarity held her hands out as they began to glow. She then spawned a diamond shield in the air. The girls stared in awe and fascination.
"Huh. That was easier than last time," said Rarity with a smile.
"Hmm. Good job. Now, I am sensing the power that you have. Hmm. Yes. Yes, I see," said Amber as her antennae glowed. Everyone watched in curiosity.
"OK! Yes, you can do more. You see, you can focus that supernatural power to shape objects at will. For example, you can these diamonds to form shapes. Just concentrate," said Amber. Rarity hummed.
"Forming shapes at will," said Rarity in interest. She took a breath as she made the shield disappear. She then waved her hands around herself, where sparkles flowed around her. Rarity was suddenly covered in a dress that sparkled and reached down to her knees. Her head bore a fancy looking hat.
"Voila! A regal dress!" said Rarity.
"Wow! Neeto!" said Pinkie with a grin, while the rest bore looks that were mixed with awe and odd looks.
"But... It's all transparent," said Twilight. Rarity looked at her in confusion.
"What?" asked Rarity. Twilight pointed to her dress.
"You can still see through it! You just have a glowing dress made up of diamond shaped plates that exposed your real clothes underneath," said Twilight. Rarity looked at herself and sure enough, her real clothes were visible. Rarity moaned in disappointment.
"There's a positive to this, Rarity," said Amber.
"What's that?" asked Rarity in a disappointed tone. Amber shot a bolt of energy from her antennae. Rarity screamed in panic as she shielded her face but this bolt merely bounced off the diamond dress. The bolt crashed next to Junior's foot, causing him to jump with a start.
"A great defense with your beauty!" said Amber. Rarity quickly looked herself over with a panicked look but relaxed when she found that she was safe.
"What the hell?!" exclaimed Junior with a glare.
"Oh relax. I only used enough power to stun," said Amber. Rarity willed the diamond dress to disappear.
"So are her powers only good for defense? Kinda lame," said Rainbow in disappointment. Rarity huffed.
"At least I can make myself look elegant!" said Rarity indignantly.
"I said you can form any shape that you want. Try something more lethal," said Amber. Rarity held out a hand with a hum. Suddenly, transparent diamonds appeared and combined to form a gauntlet, which continued to assemble with a blade-like shape at the end. Rarity flinched with a start.
"OK. Now that's cool," said Rainbow with a grin. Rarity gulped as she stared at the sharp blade shape.
"You power works great for both defensive and offensive purposes. But you would be a force to reckon with if you can utilize both at the same time. Be creative!" said Amber. Rarity sighed.
"I abhor violence," said Rarity.
"Your enemies won't care, dear. You aren't learning to start battles," said Amber as Rarity willed her diamond bladed gauntlet away. Amber turned to Pinkie.
"Now Pinkie Pie, you can utilize objects that you touch as explosives. The larger the object you touch, the larger the explosion. Very lethal explosions," said Amber. Pinkie bore a look of discomfort.
"I don't really want to kill anyone," said Pinkie.
"You don't have to. Throwing dirt, pebbles and other small objects will result in smaller and not so lethal explosions. At most, you'll temporarily make them blind or deaf. It's great for a get away or distraction," said Amber. Pinkie scooped up dirt and tossed it to the side. A small explosion occurred near the group. Everyone flinched as they felt the force and their hair blown back.
"Good enough for me!" said Pinkie. "Oh! I can use sprinkles to make smaller explosions!"
"There! You see? You're thinking creatively with your power!" said Amber in approval. She then turned to Rainbow Dash.
"And you. You have super speed. You can travel great distances in a short span of time," said Amber.
"Yeah. I ended up in three countries," said Rainbow with a shrug.
"But did you know you can process things much faster than average humans? For example..." Amber suddenly shot a bolt at Rainbow. The girl's eyes widened in shock. Her body sparked with multicolored sparks, and the world around her slowed down. Rainbow Dash saw the beam coming towards her at a slow pace. The girl looked around and saw everyone's face slowly turning to startled looks. As the bolt came closer, Rainbow stepped to the side and allowed it to past. She then began to move towards Applejack and snatched her hat and placed it on with a chuckle.
Everyone saw the bolt pass, but Rainbow was nowhere in sight. Sunset glared at Amber.
"Stop doing that!" said Sunset.
"Where's Rainbow Dash?" asked Fluttershy in worry. They suddenly heard Rainbow clear her throat. She was leaning against a tree with Applejack's Stetson hat on.
"Sup?" greeted Rainbow. Applejack felt her head in alarm. She glared at Rainbow in annoyance and snatched the hat back.
"Applejack, you have strength that surpasses humans and the strongest of Transmutants. You also are quite durable. Wanna see?" asked Amber as her antennae glowed. Applejack's eyes widened in alarm.
"No, I'm good!" said Applejack in a panicked tone. Amber giggled in amusement as the glow in her antennae died down.
"Fluttershy, you can communicate with animals. They may even lend help if you ask. Dogs, cats, birds, bears, anything! Even a certain someone if he were to change," said Amber as she looked to Junior, who was on his phone. Fluttershy nodded.
"That's good to know," said Fluttershy. Amber turned to the Dazzlings.
"And you three. Interesting enough, you share common abilities. You can sing to bewitch your foes to do your bidding. You can sing to bring destructive waves," said Amber as she fluttered over to Sonata and bit her leg.
"Ahhh!!" Sonata screamed in pain. Her voice amplified out and echoed. Red ring waves flowed from her voice and the area shook. Everyone covered their ears in pain at the volume. Sonata stopped screaming and cupped her mouth in shock. Her voice echoed out and the area stopped shaking. Junior was suddenly buried under tons of snow from the tree branches above him.
"Fuck," said Junior as he emerged from the snow with a shiver. Amber turned to Sunset and Twilight.
"Now you two. You both share a power. Something that I have to teach you so you can get a proper handle on," said Amber.
"Telekinesis? Yeah I can see that," said Twilight.
"Mind reading? Man I got the short end of the stick, huh?" asked Sunset in disappointment.
"No. Not exactly. Sunset, what you think is telepathy is actually empathic," said Amber. Sunset raised a brow.
"Do you mean, empathetic?" asked Sunset.
"Well... Yes. But we refer to it as 'Empathic', which is more advanced then just understanding another person's feelings. You can see and feel the emotions and thoughts of others by physical touch," said Amber.
"But what you both have is the power of magic," said Amber. Twilight and Sunset looked to each other with raised brows.
"Magic?" deadpanned Twilight.
"You're gonna start doubting her now?" asked Junior incredulously.
"OK, I'm starting to buy a little bit of this supernatural stuff. Especially since traditionally you can neither prove or disprove it. Not to mention what we saw with one of those Purists when we were kidnapped. But I'm certain that magic is something that doesn't exist in the universe," said Twilight.
"Well not in this universe," said Amber.
"Wait, what?" asked Sunset in confusion.
"You are correct that magic isn't something that exists in your world. The universe is entirely natural but shares a supernatural history across all that exists. Your magic comes from another world that is abundant with it. You can draw from that power and use it to your advantage," said Amber. Twilight crossed her arms.
"I have to see it to believe it," said Twilight. Amber sighed in annoyance.
"You mortals and your 'seeing is believing' mentality," muttered Amber to herself.
"OK. Um... You can summon your magic by focusing on the heart. You see, it is all fueled by the positive feelings in your heart. Love, joy, etc. Say you want to blast your foe with a beam of magic. Focus your heart and your knowledge on the spell," said Amber.
"Well that doesn't sound very loving," said Sunset with a raised brow.
"It's not the action that you’re focused on. It's the why. Say your loved one was in danger. Your desire to protect them and to prevent danger manifests itself into your heart and soul, acting as your personal fuel to cast the spell," said Amber. Twilight hummed in thought.
"I see. But what if... Hypothetical question. Could this be used while fueled by negative emotions?" asked Twilight in curiosity. Amber held a short pause in silence.
"Yes, that can happen. But I advise against it," said Amber.
"Why? What's wrong?" asked Sunset.
"You see, humans are emotional beings. It's natural for you to experience these emotions and is in fact healthy, but you don't want to constantly fuel your spells with negative emotions like anger or fear. Doing so can reflect on your very being if not careful. Just like how it's unhealthy for your body to constantly be angry and fearful, it is dangerous to do so with your spells," said Amber.
"That goes for everyone. Be wise with how you use these abilities. These are not for playing," said Amber in a serious tone. Twilight and Sunset both glanced at each other with small looks of discomfort.
"Now, you want to see if what I'm saying about your abilities is true. I think we should practice. Junior, would you like to volunteer to help?" asked Amber as everyone looked to Junior.
"Not really," deadpanned Junior.
"Please? Just for a minute!" said Amber. Junior sighed as he put his phone away and stepped forward.
"What do you want me to do?" asked Junior. Amber turned to Sunset and Twilight and zapped the two in their foreheads. The girls yelped as they stumbled while covering their foreheads.
"Whoa!" exclaimed Rainbow as the other girls bore looks of alarm.
"Amber!" yelled Junior in a scolding manner.
"They're fine. I just gave them information on their first spell," said Amber as Twilight and Sunset rubbed their red foreheads with a wince.
"Whoa. I just had a flood of information in my brain," said Sunset in amazement.
"This... This is magic?" asked Twilight as she looked to Amber in shock. Everyone bore looks of curiosity at what the two were amazed by.
"What you now know is the method of a defensive spell. There are different ways to use this. For yourself or for your peers," said Amber. She then turned to Sunset.
"Let's start with you. I'm gonna attack you and you have to protect yourself," said Amber. Sunset's eyes widened.
"Wait! Shouldn't we try a demo first?!" asked Sunset.
"Yeah, this is it," said Amber as she shot a bolt of energy. Sunset cried in panic as she raised her hands over her face, which glowed with an aura. The bolt collided with a magic shield that was transparent and matched the color of the aura. Sunset opened her eyes and found the shield. She lowered her hands in amazement and allowed the shield to disappear in sparkles.
"Good! Now, let's try something trickier. To cast a successful spell, you have to concentrate in the heat of the moment. Like if someone was going to be attacked and you must act quickly, you need to focus on casting the spell. So Twilight," said Amber as she drew the petite girl's attention.
"I'm going to attack Junior! You must protect him with your defensive spell!" said Amber. Twilight and Junior both bore looks of alarm.
"What?!" exclaimed the two in unison.
"I'm gonna use my beams to zap him. He'll be fine. It'll be like a bee sting. So don't worry," said Amber in a cheerful tone. Junior glared at her.
"I didn't agree to this!" yelled Junior. Twilight bore a nervous look.
"I uh..." Twilight bit her lip.
"It's simple. Just be ready to cast the spell. Now!" said Amber as she fired a bolt. Junior was struck in the gut.
"Agh!" Junior grunted as he clutched his stomach. Everyone gasped in alarm.
"Ugh. Twilight! You were supposed to act!" said Amber.
"I-I wasn't ready! It just happened out of nowhere!" said Twilight in a defensive manner.
"That's the point! Someone can be attacked when you least expect it! You must be quick! Now Junior is dead!" said Amber as Junior clutched his gut.
"No I'm not," said Junior with a wince.
"Now again!" said Amber as she shot Junior in the shoulder.
"Ow!" cried Junior. Twilight gasped.
"Ugh. Dead again," said Amber as she fired another beam at Junior's other arm.
"Ah! Stop it!" said Junior in annoyance. He was shot multiple times by Amber, much to everyone's shock. Twilight winced as Junior kept yelping in pain.
"Stop!" cried Twilight.
"Twilight, the longer you stand there, the more Junior gets hurt," said Amber as she fired another bolt. Junior grunted as he held his shoulder.
"Twilight, do something!" yelled Junior in annoyance.. Twilight suddenly found her friends yelling at her to act. Twilight began to sweat as she bore a look of panic as she watched Junior get stung over and over. She had grown stressed to the point that when she tried to conjure a spell, her hand just sparked. Her eyes watered at the stress of being incapable of acting under the pressure. The girl yelled as she suddenly rushed over to Junior. She was then struck in the shoulder by Amber's bolt and cried out in pain. She hissed in pain as she rubbed her shoulder. Everyone bore surprised looks.
"You alright, Twi?" asked Applejack in worry.
"Yeah." Twilight winced.
"That wasn't casting a spell, Twilight," said Amber. Everyone, including Twilight, glared at the fairy. Amber sheepishly laughed.
"Er... Maybe we should've started with something easier. L-Let's do this again some other time!" said Amber. Twilight turned and noticed Junior looking at her with a deadpanned look as he rubbed his stinging shoulder. Twilight merely sheepishly smiled in response.
________________________________________
Junior was walking alongside Fluttershy on their way home in silence. Fluttershy glanced at Junior worriedly as he rubbed his shoulders.
"How are you feeling?" asked Fluttershy.
"Soar. Damn that bug. I'll get back at her, you'll see," said Junior in annoyance.
"W-Well, we learned a lot today, right? I think out of all of us, Twilight and Sunset will get their powers down quick," said Fluttershy.
"I doubt it. You're dealing with something not normal. Did you see Twilight? She freaking froze up!" said Junior.
"Oh. You're not mad at her about that too, are you?" asked Fluttershy in worry.
"No. But what she did was kinda dumb," snorted Junior. Fluttershy looked at him in disapproval.
"That's not nice! Don't laugh!" said Fluttershy.
"I don't mean to. I just wasn't expecting it," said Junior. He sighed.
"Man... I wonder how Aang is doing," said Junior.
"Have you talked to him?" asked Fluttershy.
"He hasn't answered my texts. I would go over to his place but I think he wants to be alone for a bit. Maybe he'll show up at school after winter break," said Junior. Fluttershy nodded.
"I hope so. I wonder what happened between him and his mother," said Fluttershy. Junior nodded in agreement.
"Same. And that crap that happened with the sky and our allergies."
"Oh. Yeah, that was scary," said Fluttershy in a small tone.
"People are freaking out like it's the end of the world. Man, things have been getting weird lately," said Junior.
Later that evening. Erika was sitting on her bed with her phone in her hand as she bore flushing cheeks.
"S-So... About what happened on Christmas..." said Erika in a small tone.
"Nothing happened! I swear!" said Junior on the other line in a frantic manner.
"Are you sure? I-I mean, you can tell me. I won't judge you," said Erika in a embarrassed tone. "Adagio is a beautiful girl. I just never realized that-"
"I know how it looked but you got it all wrong! She pulled me onto her!" said Junior in a desperate tone.
"O-OK. I believe you," said Erika in a small tone. Junior sighed.
"Is this why you called me?" asked Junior.
"Yeah. I just... I wanted to be sure. I had a feeling that you might have been freaking out the whole time," said Erika with a small laugh.
"Of course I was. You would too if you were in my position," said Junior. Erika nodded.
"That's true. But you don't seem like that kind of guy. I just wanted to be sure," said Erika. "Anyway. See ya later."
"Sure. Later," said Junior. Erika hung up the phone with a look of relief on her face. She had been thinking about that part of the night constantly, with her thoughts trying to make sense of it. She worried to the point that she had to ask Junior herself. Thankfully, her doubts were right. The girl relaxed. Even if it was true what she saw, Erika didn't think of telling anyone. She thought it was rude to spread rumors and other people's personal business, so she remained quiet. The girl was about to lie down but felt her body growing soar. She groaned as her bones and muscles ached and her stomach tightened. She felt the back of her throat ache and she gagged. Erika quickly shot out of bed as she coughed furiously.
Erika was making her way over to the bathroom with a grunt. Her eyes were bleeding as he skin grew irritated. The girl coughed furiously as she hunched over the sink. Green, yellowish mucus came from the back of her throat and into the sink, which began to sizzle. Erika panted as she bore a look of panic.
"What is happening to me?!" asked Erika as she stared at herself in the mirror. Her bleeding eyes sent fear into her soul as she grew pale. She grabbed the sink tightly as her nails grew. The sink side suddenly broke from being crushed by Erika's hand. The girl fell over in a coughing fit as her body burned and ached and tears ran from her eyes. From outside of the bathroom, Erika let out a horrific scream that could be heard throughout the house.
Sunset found herself in the streets of Ponyville. Her eyes were wide in horror as she saw that buildings were partially destroyed, cars were crushed, burning or tipped over. Fires raged and people were crying out in panic. Sunset quickly ran through the streets, finding chaos to be all around. She stopped and gasped as she found Applejack to be throwing cars onto each other with her bare hands.
"Applejack?!" exclaimed Sunset in shock.
"Howdy, partner," said AJ as she yanked a lamppost off of the side walk and bent it. Sunset gasped as she found the debris and destroyed cars to be levitating upwards towards a tall structure. The structure was a castle in a knife-like shape. But it was made up of debris and diamonds. Rarity was sitting upon a throne with a smile as her hands glowed from forging this castle, while wearing a dress made up of diamonds that she conjured. Sunset stared in shock and turned to find Fluttershy laughing maniacally as she stood among a horde of animals from a zoo.
"Free! You're all free now! Haha!!" laughed Fluttershy. Pinkie was throwing around rocks, causing pink explosions everywhere, and Rainbow suddenly appeared in a flash, leaving a trail of sparks. In her hands were bags of money.
"I got the dough!" said Rainbow with a grin.
"Oh my God!" said Sunset in horror. She then saw the Dazzlings to be standing on a stage singing, where hundreds of people watched them as they moaned like zombies.
"Now that you're under our spell, you shall do our bidding!" said Adagio.
"Yes, mistress," said the audience in unison with mono toned voices. Sunset yelped as she heard crashing behind her. She turned and found a MONARCH armored truck to be rolling on its side in the street. From the corner, a reptilian beast that was covered in thick armored plates along its back and thorny spikes stomped on four legs, roaring as it stuck its horned snout into the air and exposed its sharp teeth and tusks. The beast began to swing its spiky clubbed tail against the truck, smashing it in, while ramming itself into MONARCH soldiers. Sunset cupped her mouth as she watched this. She then heard a familiar screeching roar, prompting her to turn and found a charcoal grey reptilian beast to be stomping through the street, letting loose a stream of neon blue flames from its mouth, scorching through the buildings. Sunset's eyes were wide as she recognized this creature from the Everfree Forest.
"Gojira?!" Sunset stared in horror. She then cried out in panic as a winged beast dove near her. She braced to the ground as a pterodactyl-like beast, covered in brick red scales and bore a tri-crest at the back of its head scooped up debris from all of the destruction. It flew off and perched itself on top of a still standing building, dropping the debris around it as it proceeded to make up a nest with all of rubble it found. The creature then roared as it pecked in its nest and raised its head, revealing that it had picked up a young woman, who was screaming her head off. The creature rocked its head back as it devoured the woman whole, much to Sunset's horror. She heard multiple screams coming from the nest, where the flying reptile proceeded to peck and feed upon more young women that it had gathered.
Sunset then heard a loud screech in the air. She turned and found a large moth the size of a short bus to be perched on the diamond castle as its large insect eyes were red with rage. The moth waved its wings. Spreading yellow mist from its body that began to fall upon people below, who coughed furiously and died of suffocation. Sunset stared helplessly as people were killed around her and her friends did nothing. Suddenly, she heard an ominous and ghostly wail in the air that made Sunset's blood run cold. From the ground, massive vines began to break out, wrapping themselves around buildings. Sunset stared as people were strangled by the vines.
"No! Stop!" cried Sunset. She then felt a hand on her shoulder and turned to find Twilight looking at her with cold white eyes.
"Why are you being such a stick in the mud? Enjoy the power!" said Twilight. Sunset stared in shock and then turned to find that her hands had grown hot. Her eyes widened as she found flames to be crackling on her very hands, yet her flesh was not consumed. Instead, the ground around her feet began to burn and the heat began to spread.
"No!!" screamed Sunset. She found herself sitting up in her bed, covered in sweat. She panted as her heart raced. She quickly looked around, finding herself to be in her room, where she could see the sun had barely risen this morning. Sunset sighed heavily as she slumped in her bed.
Sunset yawned as she stood by a street corner. She slightly shivered from the cold that she was feeling. From outside, she saw Twilight making her way around the corner with bags under her eyes. She bore a nervous look as she walked. Sunset made her way over to the girl.
"Twilight, glad you could make it," said Sunset. Twilight flinched with a start but began to slightly relax.
"Oh. Morning, Sunset. Wha- What did you want to talk about?" asked Twilight as she cleared her throat. Sunset sighed.
"Listen... I know how our world has been pretty much flipped upside down these past couple of weeks," said Sunset.
"That's an understatement," said Twilight.
"And I know we can use some time to deal with less stress. But..." Sunset sighed.
"What?" asked Twilight.
"Remember how Amber warned us about being careful with our powers? I had a dream last night. It was that the town was in ruins. Us, our friends, we were the cause of it," said Sunset as she held her arms. Twilight's eyes widened.
"We were abusing our powers, Gojira was... He changed like he did before. And there were three other creatures. I think they were supposed to be the others." Sunset grimaced as she thought back to the dream. Her stomach turned as she recalled the creatures that were destroying, killing and devouring everything that was in their path. She even recognized the dark creature as Junior from the last incident they had with the Purists. Sunset shook her head, not wanting to dwell on the memory of that part of the dream.
"Then you... You told me to 'enjoy the power'." Sunset looked down at the ground. "Even I lost control of myself."
"Oh my gosh. You too?!" asked Twilight. Sunset looked at her in confusion.
"I had a dream just like that last night! Except you told me to enjoy the power! I couldn't sleep after that!" said Twilight in shock.
"You did?" asked Sunset in surprise. She then bore a slightly unnerved look.
"Yikes. That just makes me more worried. I'm pretty sure something like that is called a prophetic dream," said Sunset with an unnerved look.
"Y-You mean that's gonna happen?" asked Twilight with a fearful look.
"Amber did say that this was all supernatural. I would go far to say that this was some kind of warning. Not everything was coherent in the dream, but it had a common theme," said Sunset as she looked to Twilight.
"Losing control. Whether it’s the Transmutants losing control of themselves, or us losing our self-control with these powers. Either way... I believe it's something that we can prevent," said Sunset. Twilight bore a bit of a hopeful look on her face.
"So, what now?" asked Twilight.
"We make sure that everyone stays on the right track," said Sunset.
Erika was slightly trembling as she stood in the cold evening, bundled up in a sweater, a scarf, jeans and boots. She made her way into a fast food restaurant. She was slightly coughing under her scarf as she shook. She looked through the menu, her hood was covering her face.
"I'd like to order a basket of chicken strips with fries. And a cheeseburger, please," said Erika in a slightly rasped voice. She placed cash on the counter. The woman behind the counter didn't comment on her hidden appearance and took the order. Soon, Erika found herself sitting alone in the fast food restaurant by the window. She was slowly eating her meal, while shaking. Her breath shuddered as she held her food with hands as pale as the dead, with sharp nails. Erika held her face.
"God, what's happening to me?" whispered Erika in a distraught tone. Her cell phone began to rang, prompting her to quickly answer it.
"Erika, what's wrong?" asked Genshiro over the phone in worry.
"Daddy, I'm scared. Something is wrong with me. I need you," said Erika over the phone as she held in her sobs.
"I'm at the Burger Shing down the street near our neighborhood. Dad, I'm feeling cold. Everything hurts. And no matter how much I eat, I'm still hungry," said Erika as she sniffled.
"I'm on my way. Just head home," said Genshiro as he hung up. Erika quickly began to devour her food as she cried. After she finished, her stomach demanded more food, her body ached everywhere, and her head was throbbing. Erika clutched her head as she quietly wept.
"Miss, are you alright?" a young employee called as she approached Erika's side. As she touched her, Erika shrieked as she turned to face the woman and lunged for her.
Battra was bearing a neutral expression as he sat next to Maud Pie at her house as a documentary played on the television. On screen, there were images of stones being moved in slow motion, colliding with the earth. Some shattered on hard surfaces, getting debris everywhere.
"Isn't it fascinating? The things you can do with rocks," said Maud in a neutral tone. Battra nodded.
"Yeah. Especially for building structures," said Battra. He then looked to Maud in curiosity as the documentary showed a man explaining how the ancients used stones for their structures.
"Hey Maud, I have to ask. Why do you like rocks so much?" asked Battra. Maud merely glanced at him and then back to the TV.
"You'll laugh," said Maud.
"Try me," said Battra.
"Well... I find them inspiring," said Maud, almost hesitant. She glanced at Battra, who bore a curious look as well a look of interest.
"Really? How so?" asked Battra.
"In some ways, rocks are like people. They come in different shapes, sizes and colors. People may find them dull, but they are beautiful. Some dazzle like gems, others stand tall and strong in the world. And despite how different they are, none are excluded, unlike people. But if we were rocks ourselves, we'd be welcomed," said Maud as she looked away. "I think we could learn a lot more from them."
Battra hummed to himself.
"You have an interesting way at looking at rocks, Maud. I'm beginning to like them myself," said Battra with a smile. Maud briefly glanced at Battra and cracked a tiny smile. Her cheeks bore a faint hint of a pink tinge.
"Hypothetical question, what if you could get your hands on rocks from space? Like another planet?" asked Battra. Maud was silent for a second.
"I would die of joy," said Maud in her deadpanned voice. Battra lightly chuckled.
"Well, if they one day colonize Mars in our life time, you might be able to get your chance to study them," said Battra. Maud nodded.
"That would be nice," said Maud. Battra yawned as he stood up.
"Alright, I think I'm going to head home. Thanks for inviting me over. We should do it again sometime," said Battra as Maud stood up.
"I'd like that," said Maud. She walked the Transmutant out to the front door, where he left. Battra shivered in the cold as he stepped off the porch.
"Psst. Battra!" whispered a voice. Battra looked around in confusion but then noticed a snow man on the lawn. The snow man waved its stick arms, much to Battra's shock.
"What the-" Battra stepped back with an unnerved look. Pinkie Pie suddenly burst out of the snow man as she held the stick limbs in her hands. Battra relaxed.
"Oh. Pinkie Pie, what are you doing out here?" asked Battra. Pinkie made her way over to the Transmutant with a coy smile.
"Just waiting for you. Soooo... How did your date with my sister go?" asked Pinkie. Battra lightly blushed in embarrassment as he looked away.
"I-It wasn't really a date. We were just hanging out," said Battra. Pinkie smirked as she rolled her eyes.
"OK. Sure. By the way, what do you think of Maud?" asked Pinkie.
"Oh. Well... I like her. She's weird," said Battra. Pinkie gasped. She then looked at Battra with a glare and got in his face.
"Hey! Take that back!" said Pinkie, causing Battra to recoil in surprise.
"No, you misunderstood. I meant that in a good way. Maybe weird wasn't the right word. I meant that she's unusual, quirky, but in a charming way. She's pretty damn smart, she has an interesting view on rocks and how they shape her view of the world," said Battra. Pinkie backed off.
"Oooh. Sorry, I thought you were trying to be mean. I'm very sensitive to that word being used on her," said Pinkie with a sad look.
"Maud is the best big sister in the whole wide world. But because how quiet she is and not very expressive, other kids would call her weird and a freak. They even made fun of her hobby for rocks," said Pinkie as her frown deepened. Battra's expression softened. He began to recall how Maud seemed reluctant to talk to him about her love for rocks. But one phrase clicked back with him.
"Despite how different they are, none are excluded, unlike people. If we were rocks ourselves, we'd be welcomed." Maud's voice echoed out into Battra's mind. Her words suddenly had more meaning. She wasn't just referring passively in acceptance. Rather, Maud was relating to him for not really being welcomed among others because of traits that others found glaring. She yearned to be like a rock, where she believed that despite being so different, she wouldn't be excluded from the rest.
"Hmph. Well those kids missed out on being friends with a intriguing person," said Battra. Pinkie grinned in response.
"So, are you still going to be friends?" asked Pinkie.
"Absolutely. It's not easy finding people who accept you for who you are," said Battra. He then began to walk off.
"Goodnight Pinkie," said Battra. Pinkie waved to Battra.
"Goodnight, big brooo~!" said Pinkie with a giggle as she entered the house. Battra stiffened as he heard this, with a blush on his face. He lightly chuckled as he continued walking. As he made his way out of the neighborhood, Battra heard sirens. He stopped and turned to find a police car to be racing down the road. Battra slightly narrowed his eyes. He began to run down the street to where the vehicle had gone. Soon, Battra found himself at a street corner where a couple of police cars and an ambulance to be parked outside of a fast food restaurant. A small crowd had gathered outside away from the scene. Battra quickly made his way over to the crowd.
"Hey, what happened here?" asked Battra. A woman looked his way.
"Someone apparently went nuts in the Burger Shing. She attacked one of the employees," said the woman. Battra brows raised. He then noticed that men were checking on a employee that appeared to have been covered in bruises and scratches. He then began to overhear an officer talking on his COM.
"We have eye witnesses stating that the attacker was a customer, appearing to be in her teens. Be on the lookout for anyone dressed in a dark green sweater, dark jeans and boots. Eye witnesses claim that the attacker was snarling and shrieking, while moving with unnatural speed, leading us to believe that she was a Transmutant. Caution is advised," said the officer. Battra's expression turned to surprise. He then began to move away from the crowd as the police cars' siren lights flashed in the night.
"I shouldn't get involved. I'm done with that life style," muttered Battra to himself.
It was the early morning. Junior was lying in bed in his pajamas, sleeping peacefully. The Transmutant grunted in annoyance as he heard the doorbell ring. He remained in bed, only to hear it ring again. Junior rolled onto his belly as he placed the pillow over his head as the bell rung again. Junior groaned as the bell was rung repeatedly. The Transmutant stomped out of his room and made his way to the front door. He opened the door with an annoyed look.
"What?!" asked Junior. He then stiffened as he found Blaire to be standing at the front door in her uniform.
"Oh. Blaire? What are you doing here?" asked Junior.
"Morning, Junior. May I come inside?" asked Blaire. Junior slightly nodded.
"Sure. Come on in," said Junior as he allowed the officer into the house. As he closed the door, Junior began to feel concern as to why she was here. She seemed rather serious, and that began to worry him considering that Blaire was obviously on duty.
"Can I get you anything?" asked Junior.
"No. But I just wanted to speak to your dad," said Blaire. Junior's brows raised.
"Dad? Why?" asked Junior. Blaire was about to answer.
"That's what I want to know," said Miwa as she emerged from the hall with her pajamas on. Her eyes were slightly narrowed.
"I don't mean to worry you two. I just wanted to see if he knew any information," said Blaire. Junior looked at her in confusion.
"Information? For what?" asked Junior.
"An employee at a Burger Shing just down the neighborhood over was assaulted last night by a customer. Witnesses claim that the attacker just suddenly went berserk and attacked her," said Blaire. Miwa and Junior bore surprised looks.
"Oh God," said Miwa.
"The victim is alright but claimed that this attacker had eyes that were not human. Stating that her pupils were slits like a snake or cat," said Blaire. "We could be dealing with a Rogue Transmutant."
"And you think my husband is involved?" asked Miwa incredulously.
"Of course not. But given the fact that he's a rogue himself and is part of a large group, I thought maybe he may know something or possibly lend a hand. Ponyville has become a hot spot for conflict lately, Miwa. I think it's in everyone's best interest that we catch this person, because she obviously has no self-control in her instincts," said Blaire. Junior nodded in agreement and understanding.
"It would be pretty bad to let someone like that run around loose," said Junior. He was too familiar with the dangers of rogue Transmutants losing control of themselves.
"Considering that MONARCH has tabs on my Dad now, they might assume that he might have something to do with this," said Junior as he scratched his head. Blaire nodded.
"Exactly. Right now I'm on my own looking for leads. Is there any way we can meet him?" asked Blaire. Her brows raised in surprise as she saw Senior emerging from the hall with bed head.
"Mm. What's going on?" asked Senior with a yawn. Blaire looked to Miwa.
"I wasn't expecting him to be here," said Blaire in surprise.
"He's just spending a few days with us," said Junior. Miwa made her way to her husband's side and wrapped her arms around him.
"Mm. We made a deal that every month, he has to spend four days with us," said Miwa as she and Senior shared a small kiss. Blaire lightly smiled in response.
"Anyway. Gojira, I have a couple questions to ask you," said Blaire, prompting Senior to look her way in confusion. As Blaire explained what had happened the previous night, Junior made his way over to his bedroom and planted himself on his bed with a tired sigh
"Lazy. Lazy me," said Junior. His phone briefly jingled, informing him of a text. Junior sighed as he reached for his phone on the dresser by his bed. He opened his inbox and scanned through the text. His eyes slightly widened at what he saw. The text read, 'I need your help', by Erika. Junior rolled onto his back as he held his phone and proceeded to text with one hand.
"What's wrong?" muttered Junior to himself as he text. After he sent it, it only took a couple seconds before a reply came, much to Junior's surprise.
'A lot'. The text was preset on Junior's screen. He began to text again but another text came. The text read, 'Please. I don't have anyone to turn to'. Junior was about to reply but another text came. It read, 'I'm scared'. Junior bore a worried look as he read the texts. He began to text.
"Where are you?" muttered Junior as he sent the text. After a few seconds, a reply came. The text read, 'at the park'. Junior took a breath as he replied.
"On my way," said Junior. He then got up from his bed and proceeded to get dressed. The boy made his way to the living room as he slipped his regenerating arm through his sweater sleeve as he wrapped the scarf that Fluttershy had given him around his neck. Blaire was in the process of walking out of the front door.
"Alright. Thank you for your time," said Blaire.
"I'll let you know if I hear anything," said Senior with a nod. He then noticed Junior quickly moving through the living room.
"Junior, where are you going?" asked Senior in confusion.
"I'm going out a bit. Maybe to hang out with my friends. I'll be back later," said Junior as he moved passed Blaire and proceeded to run down the snow covered sidewalk. The adults merely looked to each other with curious looks.
Junior was rushing out of the neighborhood. His breaths were visible in the cold air as it condensed into a mist. He soon made it to the park, which was covered in snow. He looked around panting as he drew out his phone.
"Where are you?" muttered Junior. He then spotted a lone figure to be sitting on the swing set. The figure appeared to be feminine in build and her face was hidden by a hoodie. Junior put his phone away and jogged over to the figure and stopped.
"Erika?" called Junior. The figure glanced at him but did not reveal her face. Her mouth was covered by a scarf as her hood hid her eyes and top half of her face.
"You came..." said Erika. Her voice was slightly rasped.
"Of course I did. Your texts had me worried," said Junior as he approached the girl. Erika quickly recoiled away as she turned her head away. Junior grew more concerned.
"Erika, what's wrong?" asked Junior.
"I... I don't know how to explain it," said Erika.
"What happened to your voice? And why are you hiding your face?" asked Junior. Erika began to tremble as she sat on the swing, holding in a sob.
"I... I did something. Something awful," said Erika with a sniffle. Junior sat on the swing beside her as his expression was soft.
"Hey, you can tell me. What happened?" asked Junior. Erika's gloved hands gripped the chains to the swing tightly. It was here that Junior noticed that a familiar stench was beginning to radiate from Erika. It was almost like rotting meat.
"Th-This was a mistake!" said Erika as she shot up from the swing, much to Junior's surprise.
"I-I need to go!" said Erika as she was about to run. But Junior quickly grabbed her wrist.
"Erika, wait!" said Junior. The girl began to yank her arm as she breathed in panic.
"No! Just let me go! Please, you wouldn't understand!" said Erika in a distraught tone.
"I can't understand if you don't tell me!" said Junior.
"Let me go!!" screamed Erika as she pulled her arm back, while swinging Junior through the air with ease. The boy yelped as he was tossed towards the playground and crashed into the snow.
"What the hell?" asked Junior in shock as he struggled to get up. He was dumbfounded at how a human, especially someone like Erika, was capable of throwing him over their shoulder as she did. Junior found that he had one of Erika's gloves in his hand and gasped as he found the girl leaping across the playground.
"Ragh!" Erika gave a snarl as she tackled Junior to the ground. She began to strangle Junior and slam his head into the snow. Junior gasped for air as he was strangled. Erika's strength was putting him at her mercy, much to his shock. Junior began to force his one hand against the girl and yanked on her hood, pulling the girl down to his chest. He then wrapped his legs around her hips and began to squeeze her, causing the girl to release him. Junior then rolled with her on the ground and himself on top, forcing his hand on her shoulder to keep her down. Erika snarled as she struggled under him and slashed her glove-less hand at his face. Junior recoiled back in pain as he clutched his face, where he felt scratches just near his eyes. Erika kicked him in the gut and knocked him back. Junior wheezed as he held his stomach and was met with several punches by the girl. He was backed into the jungle gym, where Erika jumped and grabbed the bars. She then wrapped her legs around Junior's neck and proceeded to strangle him.
"Erika- stop!" Junior managed to choke out. He couldn't fathom why this sweet girl was suddenly attacking him. None of this made sense. Junior was trying to defend himself, but he feared hurting Erika in the process. However, he felt his instincts take control. His irises grew in size and his skin itched. Junior groaned as he grabbed Erika by her arm as she gripped the monkey bars and squeezed. The sound of a bone snapping filled the air. Erika shrieked in agony as she released the bar and her legs loosened around Junior. The boy then grabbed Erika by the sweater and yanked her away from the monkey bars and threw her to the ground.
Junior panted as he gave animal-like grunts, where his teeth were replaced by sharp ones. He rushed towards Erika as she stood up and rammed into her. He carried her towards a tree and slammed her against it. Junior gave a roar that was a mix of a human shout and a monstrous bellow. Erika struggled against the tree as she gave cries. She then tore off the scarf that hid her mouth and spat a yellowish green bile in Junior's face. Junior cried out in agony as he stumbled back as his flesh on his face sizzled. Erika dropped to the ground as her hood hung back. Junior dropped to the ground and rubbed his face in the snow, groaning. Erika was panting as she stomped over to the Transmutant. She grabbed Junior by the shoulder and forced him onto his back. His face was red and bore burns. His vision had blurred but his eyes were intact. Junior panted as the skin on his face changed into dark thick scales pushing up his dead, mammalian flesh. His eyes reverted to normal as some of his scales peeled off of his face and the rest returned to normal human skin, leaving only a new layer of pink and sensitive skin behind on his face. As Junior's vision cleared, he found Erika ready to punch him but her fist never came. Instead, she began to tremble as her breath shuddered. She gasped as she felt a sharp pain.
"Agh! Ah!" Erika clutched her left arm, where bone had been broken. Her eyes widened as she found Junior lying beneath her, prompting her to stand and stumble back with wide eyes. Junior stood up panting, feeling his mind returning to its human senses. As he looked to Erika, his eyes widened. Now that Erika's face was revealed, he saw that she was as pale as a corpse. Her veins were visible under her pale skin, as green as vines. Her yellow-green eyes bore large irises and bore slit pupils like a reptile's. The skin around her eyes was a dark green. Erika's pale hand bore sharp nails that were yellow. Erika trembled as she stared at her hands stained with blood from Junior. She gritted her teeth, which appeared to have been sharp. Junior stared in shock at the girl, almost not recognizing her. He was beginning to feel fearful. But this fear wasn't for himself or fear of the sight he saw. He was fearful for his friend's sake and why she looked this way.
"Erika..." called Junior as he stood up. Erika trembled as she looked to the Transmutant with watery eyes.
"What happened to you?" asked Junior as he stepped over to the girl. Erika stumbled back with a fearful look.
"St-Stay back!" said Erika frantically. Junior stopped and found her clutching her arm. His heart sunk.
"Oh God. Erika... I... I didn't mean to-" Junior gritted his teeth as he bore a look of shame for hurting this girl.
"No, I'm the one who-" Erika began to break into a sob. Junior approached again but Erika stumbled back.
"Don't come near me!" cried Erika. She was crying a fountain of tears.
"I'm just going to hurt you again," said Erika as she ran. She picked up her scarf and pulled her hood over her head. Junior began to run after the girl.
"Erika! Come back!" called Junior as he ran after the girl. Erika ran through the street, nearly getting hit by cars that stopped abruptly. Junior stopped as a car got in his path. He watched as Erika ran away, disappearing from his sight. Junior gritted his teeth.
"Erika," said Junior. He then looked down at the glove that she had left behind and clenched it in his hand.
Erika was running through the town as his her body sweat profusely, despite it being cold. The girl had stumbled into an alley, where her vision took on a yellowish tint. Her breathing was ragged as her heart pounded in her chest. Erika clutched her broken arm as tears ran down her face. She stared down at her arm as she painfully pulled the sleeve back, finding that a patch of her skin had darkened and was burning up. Erika whimpered as she sat on the ground in pain, but none of that compared to how she felt from hurting her friend. She didn't even realize that she was until she found herself pinning him to the snow, with his face burned. Erika gritted her teeth as she sobbed and slammed her fist against a dumpster beside her. A cat yowled as it suddenly rushed away from the dumpster. Erika's eyes dilated as she spotted the cat. Her broken arm had suddenly popped back into place, and the flesh beneath moved as the bone regenerated. Erika lunged for the cat and trapped it as she pinned it with her hands. Erika's expression was cold as the cat meowed in panic as it clawed at her. Erika snarled as her mouth began to open, exposing her sharp teeth and yellowish-green saliva. Only one thing was on her mind as her eyes ceased shedding tears.