//------------------------------//
// Chapter 37: Traitors and Heroes 
// Story: The Arrogance of Man 
// by Johng117 
//------------------------------//

It was the evening in Neighpon. The base remained standing in Okinawa, housing its soldiers, engineers and few scientists. The staff of the base was walking about briskly with items that were a part of their jobs. Crates were moved, filled with weapons, equipment, tools, medical supplies, and food rations. Yoshi stood by with Sparkplug as he showed him a map.
"We could just take a small fleet of our ships and try to make our way to Equestria from here." said Sparkplug as he showed Yoshi the map.
"Yes, but won't we need to worry about any sister bases that may see us as a threat?" questioned Yoshi as he analyzed the map. It would take at least ten days to get from Neighpon to Equestria.
"There is that. But we should be fine as long as we move West past this region where these islands are. Just as long as we stay the course and swing behind Wishershell Island that's on the coast off of Zebrabwe." said Sparkplug. He then pointed above the map. "We'll be home free once we reach Equestrian territory on the continent."
"Right. Let's just hope that we can embark on our journey before it's too late. It’s unfortunate how we are forced to travel without any airships." said Yoshi. He then turned to find the staff carrying the supplies through the halls with quick steps. Yoshi placed his helmet upon his head and began to walk with Sparkplug down the hall.
"So, where's Caesar?" asked Yoshi.
"Nagato, Inoue and Koizumi took him and the fairies aboard our ship already." answered Sparkplug. Yoshi nodded in approval.
"Good." said Yoshi. The two continued on through the hall and found themselves outside to a port. Lines of large ships sat outside of the base inside of a small bay. The crates were moved along towards an opening in the side of the largest ship and were placed in corners below the deck. As the crates and supplies were being loaded up onto the ship, workers and soldiers were beginning to pile onto the ship.
"I can't believe we're being forced into this situation." said Yoshi.
"Yeah, funny how life tends to screw with you." said Sparkplug. Yoshi took a breath and exhaled.
"Well, let's get aboard. We must disembark soon." said Yoshi.




The next day...

The fleet of ships of the Renegades was sailing through the sea. There were four ships sailing together, all with their weapons being checked by the crew that they held. Engineers maintained the ships from within in the engine room. Soldiers wandered the halls or remained in their quarters. The crew members were growing fearful and anxious. In the mess hall of the largest ship, soldiers were gathered for breakfast. 
"Man, I can't believe we're doing this." said a soldier as he ate with a few of his squad members.
"Yeah, me neither. What chance do we have against the entire MONARCH military?" asked a soldier.
"No clue. We might not even stand a chance." said another soldier.
"But we can't give up. People have to know what the higher ups are planning!" said another soldier. The rest of the soldiers murmured in agreement.
"But what if we run into other soldiers? They'll see us all as traitors and will kill us!" said another soldier. The rest of the soldiers all sat silently at the idea at being forced to fight against their comrades who were still being deceived.
"Well, then we'll be forced to do whatever it takes to get the truth out." answered a soldier.
Meanwhile in the bridge of the ship, Yoshi stood by and watched the pilot and the captain converse amongst themselves. Inoue was at his side along with an older man.
"Is it a good idea to escape to Equestria when MONARCH has been banned from its soil?" asked Inoue.
"We have no choice, Private. As far as we know, Neighpon is too dangerous to remain in. Equestria may just be our only hope at finding refuge and stopping our corrupt leadership." answered the man. He then turned to Yoshi. "I must thank you and your squad, Sergeant. If not for you, we may have never learned the true motive of our high command until it was too late."
"No need, Commander. You must thank the Shisa, he was the one who warned us." replied Yoshi. The Commanded nodded to him.
"Either way, we owe you our thanks." said the Commander. Yoshi sighed as he stared off to the window.
"I only hope that we can succeed." said Yoshi. He made his way out of the bridge, with Inoue trailing behind him.
"Sarge?" called Inoue. Yoshi stopped and turned to face her. "You OK?"
"I don't know. I guess I'm just worried. For the last few years, I've always followed orders. I've fought to protect innocent people that were threatened by whatever. But after learning of the corruption in leadership, I don't know what'll happen." said Yoshi solemnly. "What if...we are already too late?" 
"Sarge, we've already gotten this far! Caesar said that there were some that could help set things right! We just need to warn people and figure out how we can get word out to our comrades!" reminded Inoue. Yoshi nodded.
"I just wonder what else he has seen." said Yoshi. He then turned and continued to walk down the halls, leaving Inoue alone. She sighed as she slumped her shoulders.




Eight days later, Zebrabwe...

Sunset sat down with a scowl plastered on her face. The news about Yoshi, the soldier that she looked up to was a traitor, was a devastating revelation for her. She sat down with Erika in the mess hall eating her lunch. Erika remained silent as she felt the tension coming from her and the other soldiers over the reveal of traitors among their ranks. Erika was not as angry as the rest, but she wanted to know why the other soldiers have rebelled. 
"Do you..." Erika proceeded to break the silence.
"No." answered Sunset.
"You don't even know what I was going to ask!" said Erika. The Elf sighed.
"If it has anything to do about Yoshi and the other traitors, I don't want to talk about it." said Sunset. Erika frowned with a sigh.
"Well, let me know if you ever want to talk about it. 'Kay?" said Erika. Sunset nodded.
"Sure." replied Sunset. Suddenly, the two heard a loud beeping coming from their watches. They both looked to their watches and found that they were being deployed for another mission. The two went back to finishing their meals before leaving to be debriefed on their mission.



Sunset and Erika stood side by side in the armory. They wore their armor for combat. A few soldiers in the locker room glanced at Sunset warily.
"Isn't she the one that got radiation poisoning in Saddle Arabia?" whispered a soldier as he took a rifle that hung on a rack with several others.
"Yep. That's her." said another soldier as she loaded two handguns and placed them in holsters that hung on her waists.
"How the hell do you think she's still alive?" whispered another soldier. Erika made her way over to a rack and picked up an automatic firing assault rifle. She sighed solemnly as she held it in her hand. Meanwhile, Sunset gladly took a rifle and hung it on the magnetic plate that was on her armor's backside. She then picked up a sheath knife and hung it at her waist along with a handgun.
"Docs say it was a miracle or something." answered the female soldier. She then pointed to the ceiling as she glanced at Sunset. "Man, someone up there must really like a certain someone down here."
"Well, it's fortunate of her to be fine. We should be happy that one of our own survived radiation poisoning." said a male soldier.
"Yeah, but it bugs me that we don't know how." said the female soldier. Sunset looked to Erika with a neutral expression. The rest of the soldiers that were in the armory began to leave.
"Well, let's go kill those damn traitors." said a soldier.
"I know what you're thinking." said Sunset.
"Sunset, keep a clear head about this. We can't afford to get reckless for a mission like this." warned Erika. Sunset sent her a glare.
"I know what the mission is, Erika!" spat Sunset. Erika recoiled from her tone. Sunset sighed as she recognized her tone. She lowered her head. "Sorry."
"It's fine. I just...want to make sure that you're on your game. We're going to be fighting against people who have had the same training as we have had. I won't forgive myself if something were to happen to you if I could have helped." said Erika sadly. Sunset frowned. She then nudged Erika in the shoulder with a smile.
"Thanks. But don't worry, this might be what we need. Yoshi is going to pay for what he and the other renegades have done." said Sunset.
"Again, I'm sorry about that." apologized Erika. The two began to walk out of the armory and into the hall.
"Don't be. He's the one who betrayed MONARCH." spat Sunset. The two continued on down the hall where a few other soldiers were roaming. They eventually made it outside of the base to find an airship sitting just a mile away in the airfield. The soldiers jogged over towards the airship, running up the ramp that led inside of the back of the airship. Large propellers hung out by the sides of a metal box shaped gondola. Large turrets stuck out from the sides of the gondola and rockets were sitting on top of the metal covering above the metal balloon shaped haul. Erika and Sunset took their seats and buckled themselves up where the soldiers were required to sit during takeoff.
A red light shone in the dark room, along with a loud blare of an alarm. The soldiers buckled themselves up and braced themselves. They felt the ship rumble and their bones beginning to rattle. They felt the ship ascending, gravity forcing down on them as the air ship rose.
From outside of the ship, a figure in a black ragged cloak spotted the ship. It sprinted towards the airship as it prepared to take off. The figure ran to the side of the airship, avoiding the large propellers that began to spin faster before leaping at great heights towards the ship. It grabbed onto the metal frame that encased the lower half of the metal haul. The ship was large, but about twice the size of a blue whale. The figure began to further climb up the metal frame of the haul as the airship began to rise higher above the ground.
The ship began to sail through the air, hundreds of feet above the ground. The soldiers remained seated inside of the drop ship in silence. Sunset held an angry expression as she stared down at her hands. Their mission to locate and to eliminate the renegade soldiers was at hand. Reports were stated that the Gamma Base in Neighpon was deserted. It took a while for the scouts to find where the soldiers could be, but it was discovered that a fleet of four ships were sailing near the Seadragon Deep, an area in the sea off the coast of Wishershell Island and near Zebrabwe. The High Command of MONARCH realized that if these renegades manage to escape, that would mean a safe haven for the traitors in Equestria where they may try to do anything. This could lead to MONARCH being seen as breaking the international law set by nations. MONARCH would be finished if that were to happen.
"I'll be damned if I let you get away with this, Yoshi." Sunset whispered to herself.




Meanwhile off the coast of Wishershell Island...

Yoshi stood aboard the bridge of the ship. He sighed heavily as he leaned over the map that was set in place before himself, the Commander and the Captain of the bridge.
"So, we're still miles outside of Equestrian waters?" asked Yoshi.
"Correct. Our ship's blown engine will need to be repaired as soon as possible." said the Captain. The Commander placed a hand under his chin.
"This could be a problem. Zebrabwe is just right next door to this island. MONARCH has a base set up there." said the Commander. He looked down at the map and began to find a darker half that was just below Zebrabwe.
"Are there any bases here in Zebralilan?" questioned the Commander.
"No, Commander. Zebralilan is a nation that refuses MONARCH's presence. Funny how the Equestrian kingdom shares half a continent with countries such as these and only Saddle Arabia, the Garuda Kingdom and Zebrabwe, requested MONARCH's presence. Equestria and Zebralilan are the odd ones out." said the Captain. 
"They were wise not to." said Yoshi as he read through the map. He then stood up and sighed. He began to walk out of the bridge. "I'll go help with repairs. Call me on the COMs if you need me."
"You go on ahead, Sergeant. We may be here for a while. The faster that we can make repairs the better." said the Commander. He made his way over to a woman that sat a console with headphones on. "Make contact with the rest of the fleet."
"Yes, sir." replied the woman as she began to dial up the radio. The sound of crackling could be heard over the radio.  
"This is Commander Light. Our ship's engines have failed and we're stuck in the middle of the water. I want two ships to continue on ahead to Equestria without us. Savanah, remain with us. We'll need your weapons to cover us." ordered Light.
"Understood, sir." said a man over the radio.
Outside of the bridge, Yoshi continued down the halls of the ship. He was armor less, with only his off duty clothing on. He continued down towards the lower levels of the ship and over towards the back end. He heard the sound of hammering and drilling. Yoshi quickened his pace as the sounds grew louder and found the engine room, where several engineers were gathering tools.
"Hey, anything that I can do to help?" asked Yoshi. One of the engineers looked to him. His face was dirty from the smoke that had filled the room.
"Do you have any experience working with engines?" asked the engineer.
"Yeah, I learned a thing or two about how to repair an engine. What seems to be the problem?" asked Yoshi.
"Well, it might be the fuel valve or one of the pistons. We're still trying to figure it out." said the engineer with a sigh. Yoshi nodded.
"Alright, I'll do what I can."



It has been an hour since the flagship was sitting dead in the water due to the defective engine. Inoue sat in the mess hall with her squad members with a bored expression. Koizumi was busy sharpening his knife as Nagato sat and drank tea from a cup. Nagato sighed as she finished taking a sip of her cup.
"Boy, what a long day. I can't wait till we can get to dry land." said Nagato. Inoue smirked at her.
"Oh? I thought you were afraid of having to adapt to a new culture?" asked Inoue.
"I still am! I just rather do that than be trapped out here with a target painted on my back." said Nagato, defensively. Koizumi sighed.
"You girls ever talk about anything interesting other than adapting to culture?" asked Koizumi. The women looked to him curiously.
"Um...what did you have in mind?" asked Inoue. Koizumi shrugged.
"Like advantages or disadvantages to certain fire arms. Which mechs that were developed by MONARCH are inefficient and dumb. Maybe even who can kick whose ass in combat." said Koizumi, giving examples. The women gave him a deadpanned stare.
"How long have you been a soldier?" asked Nagato.
"Only eight years." said Koizumi nonchalantly as he continued to sharpen his knife.
"You seem to have been one longer." said Inoue.
"Because I was a Mercenary back when I was eighteen." said Koizumi. The women looked at him in shock.
"You what?!" the women exclaimed in unison.
"Yep. I killed people for my own private gain. Talk shit all you want. I made the dough and I was able to put food on the table and pay my taxes." said Koizumi.
"It's not that! Well, kinda it is. But It's more of the fact that you have just said that you were a mercenary at eighteen!" said Nagato. Koizumi shrugged.
"Well, it was like a family business. My old man thought that I could make use of my Mark of being a fighter by joining him and his crew. I trained hard in my early teen years in order to make sure that I wouldn't be killed." said Koizumi as he placed his knife back in its sheath. He then began to take sip of water. "I did merc work for three years. Then, I decided to join MONARCH because it paid well."
"So, it wasn't for protecting people?" asked Nagato.
"Nope. It was just a job. But ever since that shit with Caesar, now I got wrapped into something bigger than myself." said Koizumi. He then noticed the look of disapproval that Inoue was giving him.
"Sweetheart, you’re starting to make me feel uncomfortable with that stare. Got something to say to me?" asked Koizumi. Inoue sent him a glare.
"So being a soldier for MONARCH was just for the money? It wasn't anything more?!" demanded Inoue. Koizumi kept a neutral expression.
"Why do you need to go there?" asked Koizumi.
"Because! You don't care about the people we fight for!" said Inoue.
"Care about them? Inoue, I don't even know them. Am I to expect a thank you card from the ungrateful weaklings who can't even fend or think for themselves? People who willing let themselves fall into a civil war because they don't know how to talk out their problems or to solve problems themselves while the government babysits them and takes away their rights?" questioned Koizumi. Inoue glared at him.
"Koizumi, those are people that you're talking about!" said Inoue.
"So were solders who needlessly died for the stupidity of those people." said Koizumi. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a couple of dog tags and placed them on the table.
"I may not give a shit about the people that I've been paid to fight for, but I've began to give a shit about a few in this army." said Koizumi. Inoue looked to him in confusion. Nagato looked over to him hesitantly.
"Do you care about us?" asked Nagato. Koizumi looked to her with a neutral expression. He turned away, remaining silent.
"I don't know. I'm not fighting with my squad mates anymore, I'm not getting paid, and I've got a target painted on my back." said Koizumi.
"You could always work for free. It never hurts to mix it up a little." suggested Nagato.
"Ah. So, should I start offering my services for free when we reach Equestria? A peace loving nation that's living a fantasy?" questioned Koizumi. Nagato lowered her head and avoided eye contact.
"Funny thing about that place. The idea of a peaceful utopia is just a fantasy and wishful thinking. You can try to do whatever you can to found such a country, but there will always be the day where that peace is threatened. The truth of the matter is that no matter what, something will divide a nation." said Koizumi as he placed his knife away. "And that's how I was able to make a profit. Guys hire me to take someone out, and I get the job done. Nothing is free in this world."
"You son of a-" Inoue stood from her seat with a glare in her eye.
"All units, prepare for combat! We have enemies inbound above!" shouted a man over the intercom. The announcement was repeated again but in Neighponese.
"We'll have to continue this argument another time, sweatheart." said Koizumi as he stood to his feet. Inoue gritted her teeth in anger as her eyes glared at Koizumi's back. The soldiers all immediately began to rush out of the mess hall made their way to the armory. Koizumi rushed through the hall and found Yoshi rushing out as well. 
"Engine fixed?" asked Koizumi.
"Yeah, but we're in trouble with MONARCH right now!" said Yoshi. The two made their way into a room where their armor was stacked up and hung from cables. A few engineers scrambled to the men.
"Suit us up!" ordered Yoshi.



The airship that Sunset and Erika were aboard continued to sail through the air. It was miles away from the two battleships that were reported to have been part of a fleet of the renegades. The ships slowly sailed near Wishershell Island. The captain on the bridge of the ship stared down from the window as the ships grew closer.
"Lower us down. Activate shields and prepare to attack." ordered the captain.
"Understood, sir." said a woman as she began to ready the weapons along with another woman. The ship began to slowly descend as a bubble sphere of magic encircled it. The airship began to gain speed as it continued to pursue the battleships. Sunset and Erika remained seated with their rifles in their hands along with several other soldiers. Sunset held a hard stare as she prepared for the time to be deployed.
The airship was assaulted by magic bolts that were fired from the turrets of the battleships. The magic bubble shield rippled as the magic bolts struck it. The airship continued to soar through the air and the sound of turrets turning echoed in the day. The turrets faced the nearest ship and prepared to fire, holes from within the magic barrier forming where the turrets were aiming and allowed the magic bolts to whiz through them. The bolts began to rain down on the deck of the ship, striking down several navy units that were on it. A man ran over to a turret that was once manned by one of the navy units that were shot dead. He moved his body aside and hopped in the seat. The turret's triple barrel cannon began to fire bolts of magic that fired at the airship above. Several bolts nearly struck him, causing the soldier to duck his head.
"We need that shield down!" shouted a soldier on deck. Koizumi dashed across the deck with a double barreled rocket launcher in his grip. He along two other soldiers took cover behind a destroyed turret.
"Aim where the shield is exposed!" said Koizumi as he peaked over and held the rocket launcher over his shoulder. His helmet's heads up display began to zoom in with a reticle in the center where his weapon was pointing. His eyes focused on the reticle as he slowly aimed the rocket launcher at the exposed area of the shield. Bolts were striking all around him as he began to pull the trigger. The rocket launcher fired, launching the projectile at high speed as it left a trail of smoke. The rocket flew past bolts of magic that were fired from both the airship and the battle ship. The rocket made it through one of the exposed areas of the shield and collided with the airship's side. The explosion from the rocket destroyed one of the turrets and created a small hole into the airship.
Soon, the rest of the men who were using their rocket launchers were beginning to aim at the other exposed areas as well. Koizumi fired again as the firefight continued on and the airship grew closer. Some of the rockets were blown up before they could reach the airship from all of the bolts that were flying, but a couple of rockets managed to make it through the exposed area and struck the side of the airship.
From within the ship, people scrambled as fires broke out inside and wind began to blow through. The sound of gun fire continued on and was heard from inside of the ship. The staff in charge of maintaining the ship shouted as they tried to get the fires under control. Down below in the sea, the second battle ship turned and began to focus its fire upon the airship. Both battleships showered the airship's shield with magic bolts and rockets. The shield began to dim as it took on the hits. Meanwhile, on the bridge of the airship, the captain looked towards one of the men on the computer consoles.
"Fire our missiles! I want those traitors to sink!" ordered the captain.
"Yes, sir! Firing missiles." said the man on the computer console as he and the other began to press the keys on the console. Above the airship, holes formed again as rockets began to rise out from large cannons that were built above. The cannons fired several missiles above, sending them into the air and out of the bubble shield. The missiles then split up into two groups, each group headed for one ship.
"Incoming!!" shouted a soldier from one of the ships. A few rockets crashed down on the deck of the second ship, blowing crew members away. The ship began to rock in the sea as the steel was blown inward from the deck. Fires raged on the deck as the ship began to aimlessly sail towards the island. The rest of the rockets were hurling down towards the deck of the larger battleship.
"Shoot at the missiles!" shouted one of the crew members. The soldiers began to focus their fire on the incoming missiles that were hurdling towards them. A few of them were blown up in the air, but two made it down to the deck. A few soldiers were blown away by the explosion as the ship rocked while Koizumi slammed against the deck with a grunt.
"Damn!" cursed Koizumi as he stood back up. One of the turrets was destroyed from the explosion along with part of the deck. The cannons rose and began to fire their explosive shells at the magic barrier.
"We won't survive the next one!" exclaimed a soldier in a panicking tone. Suddenly, the sound of distant explosions reached their ears. The soldiers found that the top of the airship where the cannons launched the rockets were exploding. The airship rocked in the air as smoke began to rise inside of the bubble shield.
"What the hell?" Koizumi stared in confusion at the airship that was slowly engulfed in the smoke that was kept within the bubble shield. The rebel ship continued to fire rockets, cannon shells and magic bolts towards the floating dark sphere in an almost hopeless effort to bring it down.
From within the airship, the captain looked angrily towards one of the men in the bridge.
"What the hell happened?!" demanded the captain.
"Something went wrong with the cannons! We lost our rockets!" said the man as he frantically searched through the computer. The cannons that were depicted on the digital screen were red as a red exclamation mark blinked rapidly in the corner.
"We're blind, sir! The smoke is obscuring our view and our magic team is struggling with holding the barrier!" said a woman over another computer console.
"Tell those men that they better keep their shield up! We are not going to be taken down by these traitors!" ordered the captain. He then looked over to another woman.
"Get the troops ready for deployment! They're boarding that ship!" ordered the captain.
"Yes, sir!" said the woman.



Yoshi was standing in the bridge with his armor on with his rifle in his hand. He frantically awaited any orders as the battle continued on outside. Inoue and few other soldiers were with him.
"Yoshi, I want you and the troops to buy us some time until we can prep the life subs!" said the commander.
"Understood, but what about you and the others?" asked Yoshi.
"We'll be there as soon as possible. We need to get the other staff off the ship while we take on the airship on the island." said the commander as he pointed towards the island that the ship was growing closer to. "From there, we may be able to draw attention away from the subs and hopefully put an end to this battle."
"What about the ship that was with us?" asked Inoue.
"No answer from the bridge. They must have been hit pretty hard. The damn thing is already sailing towards shore." answered the commander. Yoshi turned towards the dark sphere that engulfed the airship above. The sphere was still being assaulted by the battleship as it continued to sail away.
"They're blind! Smoke is trapped inside. They won't risk taking their shield down lest they want to be shot down." said Yoshi in confidence. He turned and began to make his way out of the bridge.
"Just focus on getting those subs ready and we'll keep chipping away at their shield!" said Yoshi as he led the soldiers outside. The commander sighed worriedly as he looked back to the island.
"Let's hope that at least some of us will make it out of this alive." said the commander as he stared at the island that they were approaching from behind the second ship that was a mile ahead of them. Smoke trailed from it along with flames as it sailed.



In a vast room, several Elves stood in a circle. Their hands were engulfed in magic auras. The Elves were sweating as they struggled to hold their spell up. The sound of explosions echoed in the room as the rebels continued their retaliation.
"Damn! They're still kicking?!" said one of the Elves in frustration.
"Shut up! We need to keep our concentration for this spell or we're sitting ducks!" scolded one of the other Elves.
"Oh, dear Celestia. I don't know how much longer I can keep this up." said an Elf as he wobbled. One of the female Elves sent him a glare.
"Don't you dare bitch out on us now! The spell will be weak without you!" said the woman, struggling herself to continue feeding the spell her magic.
"I think I'm gonna puke. Too. Many. Attacks." said the Elf as the room around him spun.
"Could someone give us an update on the damn situation?!" shouted an Elf. The sound of a door opening reached the ears of the Elves. One of the elves turned her head.
"Good! Hey, what the heck is going on..." the Elf's voice trailed off as she spotted the person who entered the room. It was a figure wearing a black cloak that obscured any trace of a face or gender. The figure remained still in the doorway.
"Who the hell are you?!" demanded one of the Elves. The figure suddenly dashed towards the closest Elf and sent quick jabs against her. She grunted as she was assaulted and was knocked to the ground. It then rushed towards the remaining Elves, performing a round house kick on one and sweeping the leg of one who attempted to attack. The assailant then leapt onto the chest of one of the Elves and began to send quick punches into his face, knocking him into the ground. A woman pulled a gun out and aimed at the figure. The cloaked individual merely grabbed a knife that was sheathed by the Elf man's pocket that she knocked unconscious and threw it at her. The knife struck the gun out of the woman's hand, sending it several feet away. The cloaked figure then jumped off of the man's chest and tackled the woman to the ground, knocking her unconscious. The figure looked out the window and found the shield to have dissipated into nothing. The smoke still surrounded the airship but slowly began to flow behind it. The airship began to rock as the cannons from the battleship began to damage it. The cloaked figure stood up and began to run out of the room. 



"Our shield is down, sir!" said a woman on the console frantically. The captain wore a look of alarm. Suddenly, the ship began to rock and creak. The sound of an alarm blared. The smoke had finally cleared up, revealing the renegade battleships to be at the far right of their view. The cannon shells and magic bolts continued to strike the ship.
"Why isn't the damn shield up?!" demanded the captain.
"Sir, the Elves that were projecting the shield were found unconscious! We're defenseless!" said a man over a console.
"What?! Whatever, just return fire!" ordered the captain. The airship turned and continued to pursue the runaway ship, raining its bolts of magic and cannon shells at the ship. The ship continued on through the attacks as it returned fire. The ship was struck at one of the propellers in the front, causing it to explode. The ship began to tilt as the three remaining propellers kept the ship in the air.
"We've lost an engine!" said a man. The airship continued on through the air as it continued to be barraged by the magical bolts. The beach came into view as the battleship crashed onto shore. The projectiles continued on, destroying a second propeller on the left.
"We've lost two engines! We're going down!" said a man.
"Brace yourselves!" shouted the captain. The ship began to descend quickly down to the beach, passing over the beached battleship and into a forest. The debris, dust and trees were blown into the air as the airship skidded across the ground. The people in the bridge lied slump over as dust filled the room. The captain staggered over to a console as he coughed and pressed a button.
"Any soldiers still breathing, get your asses out of my ship and kill those damn traitors!" ordered the captain. He then groaned as he slumped over and passed out on the floor.



Yoshi sprinted down the halls of the ship. His footsteps echoed in the dark, flashing empty halls. He turned down a corner and found himself on the side of the ship where rails stood. He continued sprinting and made his way up some stairs, finding several dozen soldiers on the deck. Some of them were tending to the injured and moving the dead. Yoshi searched for Koizumi from among the crowd. He found the man in the red samurai armor staggering over to him. 
"Hey numb nuts." greeted Koizumi with a chuckle.
"Good to see you're still alive. Where's Nagato and the others?" asked Yoshi.
"They're fine. They went to get some medical supplies." said Koizumi. He then sighed. "Man, that was some crazy shit."
"Yeah, I hear you." said Yoshi as he looked over to where the airship had crashed. He then looked over the condition of them. "Koizumi, are you up for a hike?"
"Sure. Why?" asked Koizumi.
"I think we might have enough time to look for some survivors on the other ship. The commander ordered for the ship to remain here until we've swept the ship and bring any survivors onboard." said Yoshi. Koizumi nodded.
"How's Caesar?" asked Koizumi.
"He's fine. He's coming with us too." answered Yoshi.




Later...

Yoshi, Koizumi and a squad of soldiers jogged over towards the burning beached ship nearby. Caesar was on all fours running next to the soldiers through the sand.
"We need to make this quick! There might be some soldiers getting ready to mobilize while we're beached!" said Yoshi.
"Yes, sir!" responded the soldiers. They began to pick up their speed, reaching the ship. Caesar leapt into the air and dug his sharp claws into the hull of the ship. He began to slowly climb up the ship, grunting every time. The soldiers gathered closely as an Elf raised her aura engulfed hands. The soldiers vanished from where they were standing and reappeared on the deck of the burning ship. Caesar panted as he climbed over the edge of the ship and onto the deck. He sighed in relief as he made it over. The Shisa searched the deck and found several soldiers lying down. He rushed over towards the bodies and began to sniff them. He solemnly looked down as he gently nudged them with his snout.
"They're gone." said Caesar as his ears folded back. Yoshi rushed over towards the Shisa and found the dead soldiers on the deck. He sighed as he looked around.
"Caesar, come with me and Inoue. We're going to check the inside of the ship." said Yoshi. The Shisa nodded to him as he followed the two humans.
"Search this ship! We aren't leaving until we can find at least one survivor!" ordered Yoshi. The soldiers gave a salute and began to search their surroundings for survivors.



Sunset stumbled as she attempted to walk inside of the slanted floor. The airship was slightly on its side where a few staff members were either dead or unconscious. Erika caught her and helped her stand back up.
"You OK?" asked Erika. 
"Yeah, thanks." said Sunset as went back to walking. She continued to walk through the destroyed ship along with several other soldiers and a few staff members. Sunset seethed silently with an angry expression. She continued to walk through the ship with the rest of the soldiers, finding a large hole. The soldiers began to walk through the hole and dropping down on the grass. The soldiers began to do a headcount at how many were still around. There were a few dozen soldiers still able for action.
"Alright, so we got everything that we need?" asked a soldier.
"Weapons, soldiers to use them, traitorous scum on the beach. Yep, I say we have just about everything for this." said another soldier.
"Alright, let's move out." said the soldier. He then looked to Erika and Sunset. "You two up for being the tip of the spear?"
"Uh..." Erka was about to answer but stopped as Sunset interrupted her.
"Of course. We'll lead the strike." said Sunset with a determined smile. The soldier nodded.
"Excellent. Good luck you two." said the soldier. Sunset and Erika nodded and began to make their way away from the crash site. The two jogged passed trees, debris, and parts from the airship. Erika looked over to Sunset, who kept a firm and neutral expression as they continued through the jungle. She turned her head back forward nervously. Erika feared that Sunset's personal feelings would get in the way of their mission. The worst case scenario that she saw was seeing her friend getting killed because of her recklessness.
'I better keep an eye on her.' thought Erika.




Meanwhile back on the beach...

Yoshi, Inoue and Caesar continued to search the battleship. They ran through the halls, searching every room for any survivors that they could find. There was no luck so far as the trio kept finding corpses that lied on the floor or on tables. The rockets managed to cause a great deal of destruction from the sides of the ship and on the bridge. The three continued on down towards the lower bowels of the battleship to where the mini submarines were held. They found themselves in a large empty room on a platform where a pool of ocean water slowly drained out and onto the beach. 
"Some of them must have gotten away before the ship made it to land." said Yoshi. The sound of his COM rung in his ears as he was lost in thought.
"Yoshi, some survivors were found. We're bringing them up right now." said Koizumi over the COM. Yoshi pressed his hand against the side of his helmet.
"Copy that. No luck on finding any on our end. Get those survivors back to the ship." said Yoshi.
"Got it." replied Koizumi. Yoshi turned towards Caesar and Inoue as they waited patiently for him. "Let's get moving."
The two nodded to him and began to follow Yoshi out of the room. They spent the next few minutes turning corners and moving through halls until they heard the sound of gun fire coming from the halls. Yoshi stopped as his heart filled with dread.
"Open fire!!" shouted Koizumi's voice from down the hall.
"Oh no." said Yoshi with dread. He then began to sprint down the hall with Inoue and Caesar close behind. The trio made their way out to the side of the battleship, where they began to move up the stairs that led to the deck. The sound of gunfire came from the rebels that had accompanied them on the rescue mission. Koizumi hid behind a turret as several bolt rounds were fired at him. A few other rebels continued to return fire at the unknown enemy. A rebel was shot in his head and fell onto his back dead. Yoshi immediately turned to Inoue.
"Get the survivors out of here with the Elves! We'll cover you!" said Yoshi. Inoue looked to him in alarm.
"You?! We can't just leave you!" argued the Elf.
"That's an order! Get going!" said Yoshi as he rushed over to Koizumi. He ducked and took cover right next to him.
"How many?" asked Yoshi.
"Two." answered Koizumi as he reloaded his rifle. Yoshi looked to him in confusion. His head titled.
"Two??" asked Yoshi.
"Yes, two!" answered Koizumi.
"How can you be having trouble with just two soldiers?!" demanded Yoshi. Koizumi turned to face him with a glare.
"These ain't just any soldiers!" said Koizumi. He then stood up and fired at the two women on the beach. The two fired their rifles at them as they dodged the incoming shots. Yoshi's eyes widened in recognition as he saw Erika Shiragami and Sunset Shimmer. Yoshi turned to face Caesar, who approached on all fours.
"We're going to need your help to get these survivors out of here." said Yoshi with dread. Caesar nodded to him.
"I'll help you in this fight, but I will not kill humans. That is something that I vowed never to do thousands of years ago." said Caesar. Koizumi groaned in annoyance.
"Seriously?!" said Koizumi in exasperation.
"It's fine! We just need to buy the others some time!" said Yoshi. He inspected his rifle to make sure that the safety was off. He then took a deep breath. "Let's rock!"
Yoshi stood up and fired his rifle at Sunset Shimmer and Erika Shiragami as they charged towards the area. Sunset raised her hand and projected a magic shield in front of herself, grunting as the bolts struck her shield. Koizumi peaked from his cover and shot at Erika, who fired back. She grunted as a few bolts struck her body, causing her to stumble, but she pressed on with her attack. Caesar growled as he crouched his body like a cat and roared as he leapt off of the ship's deck and over towards the ground. He landed on all fours, causing sand to fly into the air around him from the impact. He broke into a sprint as he charged at the women. His teeth were bared as his glowing red eyes pierced into their souls. Sunset pointed her rifle at the Shisa that charged towards her and shot multiple bolts that whizzed through the air and struck the ancient guardian's body. He grunted as the bolts singed part of his mane and his armored body. He roared as he rammed into the Elf, knocking her off of her feet. Sunset rolled along the sand and raised her rifle again.
"Sunset, wait!" cried Erika as she recognized the creature as a Shisa. Sunset did not listen. She pulled the trigger and began to fire at Caesar. The guardian raised his arm over his face to prevent the bolts from hitting his face. The Shisa stood up to his feet and began to run towards Sunset, whose eyes widened in shock.
"What the-" Sunset was suddenly struck by the Shisa's tail. She cried out as she was forced off of her feet and skidded across the sand. Erika threw her rifle on the ground and charged towards the Shisa. Caesar swung his arm towards the Transmutant, who leapt over his swing. She landed behind Caesar and sent a kick towards the Shisa's back. Caesar staggered forward and quickly dropped to all fours. He turned and growled at Erika as he crouched. He then charged towards her as he bared his teeth. Erika charged towards him and began to morph her right arm into a boney ball wrapped in vines. She gave a war cry as she swung her arm towards the Shisa, knocking him on his side. Caesar rolled along the sand after the weapon had struck him. Erika turned as she heard the sound of additional gun fire. She immediately raised her weaponized arm and formed a shield of bark, bone and vines to protect herself. Yoshi and Koizumi descended down to the ground from the battleship with their thruster packs. The two barraged Erika with magic bolts from their weapons and continued the assault when they landed on the ground.
"End of the line, honey!" said Koizumi as he fired his duel wielded submachine guns. The weapons fired bolts at a rapid burst. Erika raised her other arm and formed it into a shield bush as well. The magic bolts chipped away at the wood, bone and vines, sending the debris all around. Erika kept her hold as she snuck a glance at Sunset. The Elf was slowly standing to her feet with a glare. Sunset suddenly vanished from where she knelt and reappeared behind Yoshi.
"I've been waiting for this, you damn traitor." seethed Sunset. She raised her hand as it was engulfed in her magic aura. She fired a beam of magic that struck Yoshi in the back. He cried out in pain as he was sent several feet away with the beam heating the back of his armor. Yoshi tucked and rolled forward in the sand and immediately turned to find Sunset charging towards him.
"You'll pay for what you've done!" shouted Sunset. She pulled out an enchanted sword and prepared to swing it at him. Yoshi immediately reached for his katana and pulled it from the sheath that was magnetized to his back. He brought the sword in a defense above his head as Sunset brought her sword down on his head. She gritted her teeth as she stared hatefully into his visor.
"Soldier, you must stop this! We are not your enemies!" pleaded Yoshi. Sunset growled as she brought her sword up and began to slam down against Yoshi in attempt to knock it out of his hand. The armored man held his katana firmly as sparks flew around from the clashing of blades. From the corner of his eye, he spotted Koizumi charging towards her with his two katanas in each hand.
"Nighty night!" said Koizumi as he brought his blades in a thrusting motion. Yoshi's eyes widened in horror.
"Koizumi, wait!!" cried Yoshi. Sunset was too focused on trying to break Yoshi's defense that she had not noticed the oncoming samurai power armored man. Koizumi was suddenly tackled to the ground by Erika. The woman began to punch the rebel's helmet. The man's head slammed against the sand every time her fist connected with his helmet. He grunted every time, but then lied down still with his helmet slightly dented. Erika kept a vigil stare as she kept her fist raised. Koizumi slowly raised his head and tilted his head.
"Is that all you got?" asked Koizumi. Erika scoffed in annoyance and then sent a stronger punch against Koizumi's helmet. His head was forced back into the sand again.
"OK. I felt that one." said Koizumi in a dazed state. He then reached for his pistol and ignited his thruster pack. Koizumi was suddenly propelled from under the Transmutant, who fell onto her back. As Koizumi was propelled away from the Transmutant, he pointed his pistol at Erika and pulled the trigger. The bolt struck her in the chest, causing her to yelp in pain. She continued to cry out in pain as the bolts were continued to be fired from the weapon. Koizumi landed onto his back as his thrusters died down. He immediately sat up and saw Erika rising back to her feet.
"What?! You're still standing after all of that?!" exclaimed Koizumi. He then slumped his head down. "Oh, my old man would be ashamed."
"Don't feel bad. I can regenerate." said Erika as she dusted herself off. She then began to charge towards the soldier as her hands transformed into clawed hands.
"Ah shit." said Koizumi as he drew his blades. He stood to his feet and began to engage Erika in combat. Erika moved acrobatically as she leapt over the man and swiped her claws. Koizumi swung his right katana over his head and caught the claws before they could reach him. He then swung his left katana and dismembered Erika's right forearm. She cried in agony as she rolled along the sand. She panted as she groaned while rising to one knee. She glared at Koizumi as he began to charge towards her. The man began to swing his swords at Erika's head. The Transmutant immediately ducked under the blades and then swept his legs with a kick. Koizumi onto his belly just as Erika immediately stood up and brought her claws down onto the exposed area. Erika was suddenly shot by a bolt of magic before she could impale Koizumi. She grunted as she staggered back and found Yoshi pointing his pistol at her. Sunset was charging over towards him with her sword engulfed in a magic aura. She yelled as she swung her sword towards him but her attack was blocked by Yoshi's sword. He forced Sunset's sword away and kicked her in her gut. She staggered back as she clutched her stomach.
"Please, stop this!" pleaded Yoshi. Sunset growled as she merely raised her hands. She fired a beam of magic at Yoshi, forcing the rebel to use the only thing that he could to defend himself. He raised his katana blade in hopes to catch the beam. Unfortunately, it merely knocked the katana out of his hand. Yoshi cursed under his breath as his eyes followed where the sword had flown to. He turned back and found Sunset firing several bolts of magic at him. Yoshi rolled away from the attack as they struck the sand.
"Very well. You don't seem keen on listening to reason. I will defend myself, soldier." said Yoshi with a hard stare. He dashed towards the younger soldier. He sent a punch, which Sunset sidestepped from and grabbed his arm. She pulled his arm as she stepped to the right, forcing his elbow to lock in place. Yoshi grunted in pain as his joint was forced to where it could not possibly allow his arm to be. Sunset shot her hand against his chest where a magic aura had engulfed her hand. Yoshi forced her hand away, allowing a beam of magic to fire off to the side. Yoshi kneed Sunset in the stomach and then picked her up from the ground. Yoshi yelled as he tossed Sunset away to the sand. He looked back and found that the rest of the rebels and survivors were making their way back to the functioning ship. Sunset growled in anger as she picked up her rifle. She was about to fire at Yoshi but then she spotted the rebels. Sunset fired her weapon at the rebels, managing to pop a few on their shoulders. Yoshi charged towards the Elf as he picked back up his katana blade. Yoshi ignited his thruster pack and was propelled towards Sunset with his katana in grip. Sunset gasped as she caught sight of Yoshi hurling towards her. She immediately raised her rifle in attempt to catch the blade. Yoshi brought the katana over her rifle, slicing it in half. Sunset's eyes widened as she stumbled back.
"You lack focus, soldier!" said Yoshi as he swung his katana at Sunset. The blade caught her in her arm, causing her to cry out in pain. She duck under another swing as it came back for another strike. Sunset raised a shield in front of herself as Yoshi came in for another strike. He grunted as he encountered the magic resistance. Sunset panted as she held Yoshi at bay. She then forced her shield out, sending Yoshi a few feet away.
"Damn you." cursed Sunset as she glared back at Yoshi. Erika was fighting with one arm against Koizumi. She glared at the soldier that still kept fighting. She rushed over towards the pair that fought and raised her rifle. She fired semi shots at the armored man. Koizumi turned as he heard the sound of gun fire and swung his katanas at the bolts, deflecting them away. Sunset growled in frustration and began to continue firing. Koizumi deflected a few more shots and ducked under Erika, who pounced towards him. She rolled forward as her dismembered arm began to regenerate into a boney fist. She morphed her other arm into a boney fist as well can charged towards Koizumi. She sent quick jabs towards the gaps that his armor left. His stomach was punched along with his ribs. Koizumi staggered from the blows and was then lifted off of the ground by the Transmutant. Erika grunted as she held him into the air and then slammed him against the ground. She then stomped on his chest, causing the armor to dent and spark. Koizumi groaned in agony as he lied on the ground. Sunset projected a smaller shield in front of herself as she caught the magic bolts fired from Yoshi's rifle. She teleported behind him and sent her hand towards his back. Yoshi immediately dropped to his hands and swept her leg with a kick. Sunset yelped as she fell down on her back and found that Yoshi had raised his katana over her.
"Believe me when I say that I hate to do this." said Yoshi as he brought his katana down. Sunset clenched her eyes shut as she waited for her imminent demise. However, Erika picked up Koizumi and threw him towards Yoshi, knocking him down to the ground and saving Sunset. Both fell with a grunt as their heavy armor slammed against each other. Sunset's eyes shot open as she found Yoshi on the ground, attempting to stand. Erika rushed over to her and stood in front with her claws out. She yelled as she charged towards Yoshi and began to slash her claws at him. Yoshi dodged her attacks and blocked her claw with his katana. He thrust his sword into her gut, causing Erika to groan in agony. She glared at him as she morphed her right hand back into a human fist and sent a powerful punch against Yoshi's helmet, causing him to stagger back. Erika yanked the katana out of her gut and groaned. She charged towards Yoshi as she swung his own katana against him. Yoshi ducked under the blade and caught her hand and applied pressure to it. Erika grunted in pain as Yoshi squeezed her hand. The rebel then grabbed the katana with his other hand and kicked Erika away. The Transmutant staggered back as she morphed her arm into a boney club held by vines. She swung her arm as it the vines held it passed her average arm's length and struck Yoshi in his side, knocking him to the ground. Sunset panted as she attempted to get a hold of herself after being so close to death. She then heard the sound of gunfire that rang in her ears. She turned and found magic bolts heading towards her and Erika that were fired by the rebels near the base of the ship. The Elf raised her hand and projected a shield that blocked the magic bolts. Erika's hands morphed into bushes as shields against the bolts that rained down on them. Koizumi remained motionless on the ground as Yoshi struggled to stand. He found Caesar unconscious in the sand with a bleeding head. Sunset cursed as the bolts continued to rain down on them. From behind them came more gun fire. The two soldiers turned their heads and found their comrades rushing over to their position as they fired back at the rebels on the ship. The rebels on board began to redirect their fire on the soldiers, who continued to move forward. The Elves formed a magical barrier in front of themselves, forging cover from the oncoming bolts. The soldiers hid behind the barrier as the bolts continued to strike.  Sunset lowered her shield as Erika lowered her bushes and reformed them back into her human hands. Her skin was exposed from up to her forearm due to her torn suit. Koizumi lied motionless on the ground as she began to walk away from him and Yoshi. Sunset turned and glared at Yoshi as the soldiers and rebels continued their fire fight. A couple of soldiers and Sunset's commanding officer made their way over to them.
"Excellent work you two." said the commanding officer. Sunset nodded.
"It was no problem." replied Sunset. Erika gave her a deadpanned stare in response. Yoshi slowly attempted to rise to his feet with his katana out. His armor slightly sparked as he glared at the soldiers. The soldiers pointed their rifles at him. Yoshi reached for his backside and held a capsule behind himself. He then pressed the button as the soldiers fired their rifles at him just as he threw the capsule on the ground in front of himself and Koizumi. Before the bolts could reach him, a blue magic dome formed around the two, protecting them from the gunfire. The soldiers growled in frustration.
"Son of a bitch had a bubble shield!" shouted one of the soldiers. Sunset gritted her teeth in anger as she took a rifle from one of the soldiers and began to fire at the dome. The bolts struck the shield and merely caused it to ripple. Yoshi remained motionless as he watched the Elf yell as she continued to fire her rifle. The soldiers watched as she wasted all of the ammo in her magazine. Her rifle clicked as she kept pulling the trigger. She grunted as she tossed the rifle at the shield, causing it to only bounce off. Koizumi slowly stood to his feet as he panted. Sunset yelled angrily as she brought her hands forward as she fired her beam of magic. Tears began to stream down her face at the betrayal of the rebels and the man she looked up to. Yoshi and Koizumi watched as she attempted to bring the shield down with her own power.
"Shield isn't going to last much longer." said Koizumi. Yoshi nodded in agreement.
"I know." said Yoshi. He found Caesar stirring as he lightly groaned.
"Koizumi, when Caesar attacks, I'm going to drop the shield. We'll both grab whatever weapon that we can and make a break for it." said Yoshi in Neighponese.
"Just don't pussy out when it comes to killing these guys." said Koizumi in annoyance. Erika watched as Sunset continued to fire her magic towards the shield. She found the Elf to be straining to keep up her attack due to her sweaty appearance.
Suddenly, the sound of a rumbling growl could be heard. Sunset turned and found Caesar rising to his paws. He roared, catching the attention of every soldier nearby. Sunset immediately turned and began to fire her magic beam at the Shisa. Caesar ran through the beam as it crashed into his armored body. He leapt into the air and bared his teeth as he was headed for Sunset Shimmer. The Elf waved her aura engulfed hand and teleported away from him. She reappeared next to Erika, who got into a fighting stance.
"Damn you!!" shouted Sunset. The closest soldiers began to fire upon Caesar, causing him to grunt.
"Escape, Yoshi!" cried Caesar as he blocked the bolts. Yoshi dropped the shield, prompting Koizumi to break into a sprint and to charge towards the soldiers. Yoshi did the same as his gloved hand began to spark with electricity. He caught the commanding officer by his neck and sent bolts into his body, causing the man to convulse and foam from his mouth. Yoshi knocked him to the ground as Caesar got in front of him and caught the bolts of magic that threatened to hit him. Yoshi took the rifle and the spare magazine that the commanding officer had on him.
He then saw the rest of the soldiers that were hiding behind the magical barrier turn to face them. They all pointed their rifles at him and began to fire. Yoshi ran the other direction as he fired back. The soldiers began to walk as they continued to fire at him. Koizumi grinned as he ran over towards the soldiers that were closest to him. He caught a soldier and pulled him in front of himself as he used the soldier as a meat shield. He then tossed the soldier to the other and charged towards the one who shot at him. Koizumi grabbed him and with a twist, he snapped the soldier's neck. Erika gasped as her enhanced hearing picked up the sickening crack and immediately turned around while Sunset Shimmer continued to fire her magic bolts at Yoshi and Caesar along with the other soldiers. Koizumi was running towards her while holding his katanas. She morphed her hand into a clawed hand and dove for the rebel. As she shot her clawed hand forward, Koizumi raised his swords over his head and caught the claws before they could cut him. The claws grazed his helmet leaving scratches. The soldier merely forced the Transmutant away and then spun as he crouched and sliced Erika's right leg clean off. She cried in agony as she fell down into the sand as Koizumi ran over to an approaching soldier and slashed his blades against his belly. He cried out in agony as he dropped to the ground. Sunset growled as she turned and faced Koizumi.
"You won't get away you traitors!" shouted Sunset as she shot multiple bolts of magic from her hands. Koizumi side stepped from a few and then deflected the rest with his with the swings from his swords. As he reached Sunset, she was suddenly knocked to the ground by a cloaked figure. He stopped and stared in surprise at this shorter figure engaging Sunset in combat.
"Who the hell are you?!" demanded Sunset. The figure did not answer but merely continued to fight. The assailant ducked under Sunset's bolt and knocked her to the ground. The figure turned and found Koizumi staring at her. The figure was unable to make out the expression of the man since his face was obscured by a helmet.
"Am I right to assume that you're on our side?" asked Koizumi with a tilt of his head. The figure merely nodded in response. The soldier smiled from under his helmet. He then noticed Yoshi running away from gunfire with Caesar acting as his shield and that the battleship was beginning to leave the beach and slowly reversing its course. Koizumi dove for the rifle and looked to the figure.
"Well if you're with us, stranger, you better follow me! Yoshi's got those guys distracted so we can make a break for it!" said Koizumi. The figure nodded in agreement and began to run past him.
"Hey, wait up!" cried Koizumi as he began to run after the stranger. Sunset stood to her feet with a growl and picked up a rifle. Erika reached for her dismembered leg and painfully held it up to the stub that bled. Vines and roots sprouted from her skin and reconnected the limb back to her body. Her wound healed just as good as new, with just a tear of the material that made up her suit where she was cut. She and Sunset began to chase after the two and fired their weapons. The figure leapt and continued to sprint away from the shots while Koizumi fired back.  The two continued around the barrier and continued to sprint as the rebels above the moving ship covered them. Caesar and Yoshi made their way close to the pair while running away.
"Who's this?!" asked Yoshi as a bolt struck his armored shoulder. He grunted as he began to pick up his speed. Caesar fell behind them and began to take all of the shots.
"I have no idea! But this guy just kicked some ass!" said Koizumi with a laugh. Unbeknownst to the men, the figure scowled in annoyance. Caesar's eyes widened as he stared at the cloaked figure. He felt something coming from the person, something that he had not felt for a long time. It was a familiar aura.
"There's Inoue!" cried Yoshi. Ahead of them on the beach front were a few elves holding a shield down as they fired at the soldiers. Yoshi's squad member waved frantically at him. The group hid behind the shield and looked back to the ship that was sailing away.
"How are we supposed to get out of here?!" demanded Koizumi.
"Quit your whining and let us handle this!" retorted Inoue in annoyance. The Elves came together and projected an aura that combined into a dome. As it sparkled, it began to glow brightly. Suddenly, the entire group vanished into thin air. The soldiers on the beach stopped firing as the group disappeared. Sunset and Erika stopped running as the figures teleported away just before they could reach them.
"No!!" shouted Sunset angrily as she threw her rifle to the ground. "Why?! Why do we keep failing to stop our enemies?!"
"Sunset..." Erika reached for Sunset's shoulder, but the Elf pulled away.
"Why? Why is it that everything that I do ends in failure?!" cried Sunset as she sat on her knees. Erika placed a comforting hand on her shoulder.
"It's OK. It's nobody's fault." said Erika as she held Sunset's shoulder.
"I couldn't beat him. He's was too strong." said Sunset as she gritted her teeth.
"It's OK." said Erika as she rubbed Erika's shoulder. Sunset clenched her fist as she stared back at the boat. Erika brought her into a hug.
"You don't always have to be the best, Sunset. There will always be someone who can do something more efficiently than you, but it doesn't make you weak." said Erika. Sunset frowned as she leaned against Erika.
"We'll stop them Sunset. We'll all bring them to justice, as a team." said Erika as she stared at the sailing boat. Sunset nodded in response with a small smile. Erika felt unnerved that a Shisa was helping MONARCH's former soldiers. They were the guardians of Neighpon, so she was confused why it was away from the East and why it was helping traitors that killed the men and women that they once fought alongside with. 
Meanwhile on the battleship that was sailing away, Yoshi fell onto his knees along with Koizumi. Caesar sighed in relief as he lied on his belly. Inoue looked to Koizumi and Yoshi with disapproval.
"Don't you three ever scare me like that again! I thought you guys were going to die!" cried Inoue as she knelt down and shoved Koizumi. He fell onto his back.
"Hey, please be gentle, babe. I just got my guts punched by that friggin' Transmutant." said Koizumi as he clutched his stomach. Inoue sighed in annoyance.
"Sorry. But we had to make sure that you and the others got to the ship safely." said Yoshi as he slowly stood up. He was then punched by Koizumui and fell to the ground. His helmet fell off as he fell to the ground. He glared at the armored rebel.
"What the hell was that for?!" demanded Yoshi.
"That was for you and Caesar ditching me." said Koizumi as he popped his shoulder.
"I didn't ditch you! You were too busy killing the soldiers!" said Yoshi. Koizumi punched him again, giving him a large bruise. Inoue gasped and then glared at Koizumi.
"Stop that!" said Inoue.
"That one was for taking too long for killing that Elf!" said Koizumi. He then raised one of his katanas in the air as he mocked Yoshi's stance.
"'Believe me when I say that I hate to do this'." mocked Koizumi. He placed his sword down as he glared at Yoshi. 
"Were you trying to stall for time or give that kid comfort that MONARCH's prodigy regretted killing her?!" demanded Koizumi. Yoshi flinched at his accusation. He sighed.
"Look, I only-" Yoshi was about to make an excuse but Koizumi reared his fist back, shutting Yoshi up.
"Yoshi, you're a good guy. I'll admit that about you. But you can't risk trying to reason with your enemies! Even if they were once your allies!" shouted Koizumi. "You tried to explain to that girl of why we rebelled but she wasn't going to listen! You didn't even have evidence with you!"
"Hey, Koizumi..." Inoue was attempting to calm the armored man down but he sent her a glare from behind his helmet. The rebel shrunk back, despite not being able to see behind his helmet.
"Yoshi, next time, keep your head in the game. You're lucky that you’re as good as they say you are. But what good is that if you're dead because you couldn't stomach killing your former allies?" asked Koizumi. Yoshi lowered his head.
"You're...you're right. I'm sorry, Koizumi." apologized Yoshi. Koizumi sighed.
"You have balls, use them crap sakes. It never stopped you before. But I'm glad that you realized how fruitless your effort was before it was too late." said Koizumi with a smile. Inoue sighed in relief. She then noticed the hooded figure heading for Yoshi and helping him to stand to his feet.
"Say, who's the girl?" asked Inoue. Yoshi's brow raised in confusion.
"Girl? You mean this guy?" asked Koizumi as he pointed towards the cloaked figure. The figure scoffed.
"I am not a guy!" said the figure in a feminine voice, offended by the soldier's assumption. Koizumi went stiff.
"Whaaaa?" Koizumi turned and noticed the figure reaching under for her hood and pulled it over and revealing her face. Yoshi turned and his eyes widened in shock.
"No way." said Yoshi. He stared at the woman in disbelief.




Saddle Arabia

The sun was scorching the air and ground with its summer heat. It has been over two weeks since Junior has been trapped inside of the dome. The radiation continued to infect the air and the soil all around. That radiation was constantly being taken in by Junior. The Transmutant lied down on the ground inside of the destroyed Reactor Building where he had his battle with Destoroyah. He was covered in torn clothing that he had taken from one of the fallen workers. Junior's bones and muscles ached. He stared up at the ceiling, his stomach had stopped signaling him to eat just a day ago. He had at first attempted to scavenge the soil around him for any insects that he could find, but they did little to satisfy his hunger. He felt no hunger driving him, but he worried about running out of fresh water to drink. There were still a couple of pools left filled with water, but most of it was drained from the attack. Dehydration would surely kill him instead if his body had no desire to eat. Still, it puzzled him how he had just stopped feeling the need to eat. He felt like he was still gaining nutrition and energy, but in a different way.
"I wonder if I'm growing." said Junior as his body continued to ache. He slightly raised himself onto his rear but hissed in pain. His body was under constant strain and his muscles begged him to lie down. He looked over his joints, looking to find anything swollen, red, and tender. He rubbed his arm in attempt to sooth his aching muscles. There was no sign of anything that resembled a disease, so that was a relief off of his mind.
"I'm either still growing or that fight is still affecting." sighed Junior. The idea to still be growing after he was nearing his 20s annoyed him. Memories of his fourth grade in Elementary School and up returned to him. The other children grew intimidated by his growth spurt making him tower over them, but that was a long time ago.
Junior stood to his feet and slowly began to walk around the facility. He found a puddle of water inside of a large foot print. He recognized the round sole imprint with the four clawed toe prints and sluggishly got on his knees and hands, panting as his muscles continued to ache. He leaned in to the footprint that he had previously made nights ago during the battle and sipped the water. He then raised himself up and wiped his lips.
"I need to get out of here." said Junior as he looked at the limited amount of water. Although there were a few places in the building with water, the puddle reminded him how his water supply was scarce. He turned and found an ebony blade lying down on the ground a few feet away. He slowly made his way over to it and picked it up. He frowned as he stared into the blade.
"Oh, Mosu." said Junior as he gritted his teeth. He lowered his head as stared angrily at the ground. He was unable to move on from the death of his friend. The woman who was there for him and who fought with him. He hated how their time together was short and that he didn’t know if Rodan and Angirasu were still alive. He placed the blade back down and returned to the puddle of water, rage swirling inside of him without rest.
"Oh God. I can't go on like this. I feel like I'm losing my mind." said Junior as he took another sip of water. He panted as he felt his head daze.
"The mind? That's not something to worry about." said a deep and dark voice. Junior gasped as he sat up on his knees and stared at the puddle in shock. The dragon that haunted him replaced his own reflection. It was speaking to him with pupil-less, glowing red eyes.
"Oh god, not you again." said Junior with dread. The dragon sighed in disappointment.
"Oh, my dear boy. Look how fearful you've become." said the dragon with a shake of his head. "You've lived your life in fear for too long. Even when it came to forming relationships with others, you were still fearful."
"Don't try to talk down to me you bastard! You would too if you were stuck in the shit that I have to face!" said Junior angrily.
"Yes, but you forget, I'm a part of you. You are a part of me. We are one. We're the same." said the dragon. Junior glared at the beast.
"We are not the same!" shouted Junior.
"No? Gojira, I am a part of your inner thoughts, your heart, your soul. We are one. You have seen this in your battles." said the dragon. Junior listened in annoyance at this creature that he suspected to be a figment of his imagination out of control.
"Your strength is great, your rage fuels your fighting spirit. You have something that goes beyond other Transmutants and you know it! Yet here you are, sulking like a pathetic child because you failed to save your friends." mocked the dragon. Junior gritted his teeth in anger. "Why do you feel hate towards me? I am telling you the painful truth. You fear MONARCH because of what they are capable of. But, have you ever found it strange that you are one of few they want to kill as quickly as possible?"
"What are you getting at?" asked Junior. The dragon smiled.
"They are afraid of you because they fear what you are capable of." said the dragon. Junior leaned in closer to the reflection. "Gojira, they know the power that you possess is greater than their military. If you can stand up to your foes, think of what else you can do!"
"Wha..." Junior's eyes were wide as he stared at the malicious smile that the creature had.
"You're going to gain the whole world. With this kind of power, who's to stop you?" asked the dragon. Junior's eyes widened even further. "Destoroyah is nothing but a mindless beast. Sunset Shimmer isn't too far behind with her bloodlust for you."
"No." said Junior as he stared angrily at the reflection and clutched his head. He then swiped his hand at the puddle, causing it to splash. "I don't want power! I just want my life back!"
"No, you don't. You just want to make them suffer just as they have done to you. Don't deny it." said the dragon softly. Junior panted as he clenched his hands. He slowly stood up on his feet with the pupils in his eyes shrinking and his irises growing in size and becoming more reptilian in appearance. Junior began to walk through the building and up the steps towards the ground level of the Reactor building.  He continued down the narrow dark hall that led into the Turbine Building, his eyes began to glow a neon blue.
"They took away your humanity, Gojira. The same was done to your friends by other people. Now, the world seeks you're death. MONARCH will destroy you all." said the Dragon. The young Transmutant found himself standing outside of the building where the asphalt was cracked and the dirt was exposed underneath. He growled like a beast as he stared at the ground. His body began to change shape and size.
"Unless, you destroy them first." said the dragon. Junior had changed into his Transmutant form and began to glare at the ground. His glowing eyes died down and returned back to their reptilian appearance. Junior roared as he began to dig his claws into the earth, tearing away at the asphalt and dirt.




Mustangia, Equestria

It was the afternoon. The townspeople of Mustangia went about their business. They had managed to fully rebuild what was destroyed during the raid of the Diamond Dogs. Some people were fully healed from their more serious injuries. The debate of whether the Transmutants that had appeared were allies or enemies continued on. Some people that believed them to be allies have begun to seek out these new heroes. Others saw them as a danger to their town began to grow anxious, and fearful.
Despite this division of opinions, there has yet to be any form of conflict over the subject. It was June the 20th. The townspeople have begun to work together to prepare for a special event. The Summer Sun Celebration would start at the crack of dawn during the coming evening. Valkyries flew in the air, hanging banners and Elves used their magic to wrap ribbons along poles. Street lights held up flags of the Cutie Mark of Princess Celestia, the sun. People were excited for such an event to be held in their town. Blaire stood among the decorated area of the town with a smile. Around her were a couple of other guards.
"Well, let's hope the Princess will be pleased with tonight." said Blaire. She then turned to Sapphire curiously.
"Say, how are the Princess's 'special guests' doing?" asked Blaire.
"They're fine, ma'am. One of them is reluctant to come so I told him that cider was going to be available for free." said Sapphire.
"Is it a good idea for them to be free?" asked another guard in concern.
"Well, they're free for him." said Sapphire with a shrug. Blaire chuckled.
"Well, I guess if it'll make him more comfortable then so be it." said Blaire. The two continued to watch as people set up decorations and vendors around the area.
"So...what are they like?" asked a guard.
"Well...they're like any other person. One's high spirited, one's a smartass and cynical, and the other is honorable." said Sapphire.
"Should we be worried about any of them?" asked a guard.
"Well...just don't piss the shorter one off. I think he's touchy." said Sapphire.
"Kay', don't comment on his height." said a guard. Another guard elbowed him in the side with a glare. Sapphire looked down in thought.
"I think I should go check on them. Make sure that they're still coming." said Sapphire.
"Alright. I'll come with you." said Blaire as began to walk ahead.
"Um...no offense ma'am, but is that a good idea?" asked Sapphire.
"I don't see why not. It's not like ten of us are going." said Blaire with a shrug. Sapphire sighed.
"Well, alright." said the guard. The two Valkyries took off into the air and began to fly outside of the town.




Canterlot, Equestria

Celestia sat in her chambers alone. She held her hair brush with her telekinetic magic and began to brush at her multi-colored hair. She showered and dressed up for the event while humming to herself. This would be the night where she would meet these heroic Transmutants and befriend them. If this were to happen, she could start a movement within her kingdom to establish better relations with Transmutants. It wouldn't be easy since there would be opposing views and other politicians who would try to undermine this effort, but she would not back down. She vowed to continue to push forward in hopes of Transmutants being treated as equals and friends.
From the reflection from her mirror, Celestia spotted Luna opening the door and entering her chambers. She smiled brightly and turned around to greet her little sister.
"Luna, how do I look?" asked Celestia as she gestured to herself. Luna smiled.
"As beautiful as ever, my sister." answered Luna. Celestia smiled back.
"Do you think that I should really go in my usual attire? Perhaps I should try something more modern. Oh, dear." pouted Celestia.
"Sister, thou is worried about attire? What is wrong with what thou normally wears?" asked Luna.
"It's just that this year's Summer Sun Celebration is going to be special. I just feel as though that I should try something different for once." answered Celestia with a sigh. She then turned to Luna. "Luna, have you spoken to Junior lately? Did he say that he would be coming?"
"Sister..." Luna looked down solemnly. Celestia's smile disappeared from her face as she heard Luna's sudden change of mood and tone.
"What's wrong?" asked Celestia worriedly.
"Gojira...he did say that he would be returning to Equestria with his friends before the event could start. Or at the very least, soon after." said Luna. She then looked back to Celestia in worry. "That was over two weeks ago. Something has happened. I've tried to visit his dreams recently, but something was wrong."
"What do you mean?" asked Celestia worriedly.
"He told me that he could not return home yet. I have tried to ask him why but he refused to answer. He just told me that to tell you that he would not be returning yet." said Luna with a frown. Celestia sat back onto her seat with wide eyes. She had been hoping for weeks that her adoptive son would return home to her, so she could embrace him and cry joyfully for his return. She would house him back in her castle and help him pull through the prejudice of other citizens to protect and support him like a parent would. However, her hopes were pushed back by the very child that she raised as her own. 
"I should have been a better parent." said Celestia.
"Sister, this is not your fault!" said Luna. Celestia sighed.
"Sometimes I wonder." said Celestia. Luna frowned.
"Celestia, he never said that he would not return. He said that he could not return yet. We must have faith that whatever it is that's keeping him away will not do so for long. I shall continue to visit his dreams until he tells me of his situation" said Luna with a reassuring smile.
"Thank you, little sister." said Celestia. She then stood up to her feet. "Will you be joining me on this night?"
"Would it be alright? I mean, right after..." Luna rubbed her arm as she looked away. Celestia placed her hands on her shoulders with a smile.
"Come with me sister. Let's meet our new friends." said Celestia. Luna looked back to hesitantly, but then smiled and nodded to her. Celestia then turned to her dresser and found a picture frame of herself and Junior. She sighed as she held the frame. Celestia turned back to a letter that she had received from Goro a week ago. She recalled how he wrote that one of his friends had trouble believing that Junior was a Transmutant himself, let alone if he existed. She turned back to the picture frame with a smile.




Mustangia, Equestria. Hours later...

Baragon sat down on a chair with a scowl on his face. His sunglasses were off due to the small amount of lighting in the cave and the setting sun. Blaire and Sapphire remained in an awkward silence as Goro came wearing a pair of dark blue jeans and a button up shirt over a tank top. His hair was slightly combed. Baragon wore a pair of grey jeans and a maroon colored shirt.
"Soooo....how's the hero business?" asked Blaire awkwardly.
"It's been well. Thank you for asking." said Goro with a smile.
"That's great! So um...you guys like sports?" asked Blaire.
"I like baseball." said Goro. Blaire and Sapphire looked over to Baragon curiously as he had his arms crossed over his chest. He then noticed the stares that he was receiving.
"Wha? Oh. Uh..." Baragon began to scratch at his chin in thought. "I guess I like football."
"I like basketball!" shouted Manda from deeper within the cave. Baragon cupped his hands over his mouth and turned towards the direction the voice came from.
"Basketball is for communists!" shouted Baragon. The two guards looked to him in confusion.
"Huh??" said the guards in unison. Goro slugged Baragon's shoulder with a neutral expression. Baragon yelped in response.
"Don't mind him. He's joking." said Goro. Baragon glared at him as rubbed his shoulder.
"OOOK." said Sapphire as she looked up to the ceiling of the cave. Goro cleared his throat.
"I hope I'm not too forward or anything by asking this, but would any of you ladies happen to have someone special in your lives?" asked Goro, curiously.
"Not really." answered Sapphire as she rubbed her arm in embarrassment.
"I'm happily married to my husband." answered Blaire with a smile as she removed her glove and revealed a ring on her finger.
"That's great! Any children?" asked Goro.
"I have a ten year old daughter." answered Blaire.
"That's nice." said Goro with a smile. Baragon rolled his eyes as he stared at the wall. He then heard footsteps approaching.
"Alright, ready to go!" said Manda in a cheerful voice. The woman emerged from the back of the cave wearing a strapless, teal summer dress. She wore white sandals and her long hair jade hair was tied into a ponytail. She whipped her hair back with a smile.
"How do I look?" asked Manda. Baragon looked away with a slight blush on his face.
"You look great." said Goro with smile.
"Man, wish I could rock a ponytail like that." moped Sapphire as gently grabbed a lock of her short hair. 
"That dress is cute! Where did you get it?" asked Blaire with a smile on her face.
"I found it at this shop around the town. I'll show you later!" said Manda. She then turned to face Baragon with an expectant look on her face. Baragon noticed her gaze and glanced at her.
"What?" asked Baragon.
"Do you have something to say? What do you think?" asked Manda as she gestured to herself. Baragon coughed into his hand.
"Um...it's alright." said Baragon. Manda frowned.
"Uh...'alright'?" asked Manda. Baragon's heart raced as he found himself in such an uncomfortable situation. He immediately stood up to his feet.
"Say, we should probably get going! Wouldn't want to keep her royal highness waiting!" said Baragon nervously. He briskly began to walk away from the cave. He hummed to himself as he continued to walk out. Manda stared at him as he left with wide eyes. She then lowered her head with a look of hurt. Sapphire noticed her expression and glared at Baragon as continued to leave. Goro sighed as he shook his head. Blaire stood up and placed a comforting hand on Manda's shoulder.
"Don't worry about it hun. You're beautiful." said Blaire with a smile. Manda smiled back, sadly.
"Thanks. I just wish he would have been honest with me." said Manda.
'That jerk.' thought Sapphire in disapproval.



The Transmutants of Mustangia walked with Sapphire and Blaire in silence. They were just a mile outside of Mustangia. Lights shone in the distance as the sound of distant music filled their ears. Baragon avoided eye contact with Manda as much as possible. The female Transmutant kept a frown as she saw how the man continued to ignore her. The group had finally made it to the town. People conversed amongst themselves as they held drinks or food. Children played together as parents looked after them while conversing with the other parents. A few guards remained, watching over the town.
"Come on. The princess wants to meet you guys first before she introduces you all." said Blaire as she led the Transmutants into town. They passed several people and began to disappear among a few guards that remained on the side walk. The group noticed a few glances that were cast on them from the locals. A few looked on in surprise and began to whisper to some of their friends.
'Oh boy.' thought Baragon anxiously. The group continued on until they found themselves away from the crowd and near the stage that remained alone in the town. They moved on towards the stage where they found a group of guards standing with two tall Avatar women.
"Oh! I had no idea that Princess Luna would be here." said Blaire in surprise. The group continued on near to the base of the stage where the Avatars and guards remained. Celestia noticed the oncoming group and greeted them with a kind smile.
"Welcome. Would you happen to be my special guests?" asked Celestia. Goro greeted her with a smile of his own.
"We are, your majesty." answered Goro as he and Manda bowed. Baragon mentally sighed as he bowed with them. "We thank you for inviting us, we are honored."
"And I am honored to have such heroic individuals to attend this event." said Celestia. The Transmutants stood back up.
"I am Goro. These are my friends, Manda and Baragon." said Goro as he introduced the two other Transmutants. Manda waved while Baragon remained silent. He then noticed Luna standing by silently.
"A pleasure to meet you all." said Celestia. She then grabbed Luna by her shoulders and brought her from the crowd of guards. The princess of the moon wore an anxious expression as she was brought next to her elder sister and close to the Transmutants. "This is my little sister, Luna."
"Tia'." whispered Luna as gave her sister a quick glare. She then turned back to the Transmutants with a nervous smile. She cleared her throat.
"Greetings! Uh...we are happy that you have come." said Luna. Baragon hummed in thought.
"Wait I think I heard of you. Both of you ruled together a thousand years ago right?" asked Baragon.
"That is correct." answered Luna. Baragon smiled.
"Wow. You ladies do look good after all of those years." said Baragon. Luna blushed in embarrassment while Celestia smiled with a light blush appearing on her face.
"Why, thank you." said Celestia with a giggle. Manda turned away with a scowl as she crossed her arms. Sapphire looked to Baragon with a glare from behind. Manda then looked the Monarch and Diarch over with wide eyes. She watched as their long hair flowed majestically. She was in awe of how their hair sparkled and of their vibrant colors. Their feathered wings were neat as they remained folded behind their backs.
"Wow." said Manda to herself as she slumped her shoulders. The beauty of these royals surpassed the descriptions from the citizens when it came to seeing them in person.
"Come along, It is almost time to introduce you all." said Celestia as she pointed towards the gathering crowd. Goro took a deep breath to calm himself. They then began to follow the Sisters up to the stage where a few chairs remained. Baragon made his way over to Luna, who looked down to meet eyes with the shorter man.
"By the way, I'm such a big fan of how you got mad at your sister and turned into a raging goddess of death." said Baragon with a genuine smile. The story always did intrigue him at how the peace loving country's co-ruler could go through a meltdown that would create conflict over power. He thought of her as someone who wouldn’t take crap from those who enrage her, which was something that he respected. Luna looked to him with wide eyes after those words left his mouth. She then cleared her throat and looked away.
"Good to know." replied Luna nervously as she put on a forced smile. Her shoulders slumped as she was reminded of her actions from a millennia ago.
The citizens of Mustangia began to gather around the stage. A few guards remained on roof tops or on the side walk as the personal guards of the princesses remained on stage. Celestia made her way over to the center stage. Luna timidly walked to her side with a neutral expression.
"Good evening, my subjects! I am pleased to be holding this year's Summer Sun Celebration in Mustangia!" said Celestia. The crowd erupted into an applause and cheers, honored to hear their ruler's pleasure.
"For the first time, my sister Princess Luna has decided to join us on this evening." said Celestia as she turned to Luna and began applaud her. People began to applaud and cheer for her as well, causing Luna to go stiff from the sudden attention. She lightly smiled as she rubbed her arm.
"As you know, I have announced that I would be inviting special guests to this year's Summer Sun Celebration." Celestia turned and gestured for the three Transmutants to join her and Luna. Goro stood up along with Manda. However, Baragon remained seated as still as stone. Blaire noticed Baragon's state and leaned next to him.
"What's wrong?" asked Blaire.
"I can't do it." said Baragon in a panicked tone.
"You're gonna chicken out?!" asked Blaire with wide eyes.
"There's too many people! I'm a Transmutant! What if we get lynched or something?!" said Baragon in a panicked tone. Blaire looked to him with wide eyes. She was appalled at the thought of citizens committing such an atrocious act.
"I don't know what country you're thinking of, but that is something that we do not do!" said Blaire as she grabbed Baragon. Goro and Manda had already made their way at Celestia's side and looked over to him worriedly.
"Get your butt up there!" whispered Blaire. The guard began to push Baragon across the stage and next to Goro and Manda. The Transmutant went stiff as eyes were focused on him and the other two Transmutants. A few people began to whisper to each other, recognizing them.
"Citizens, please welcome Goro, Manda and Baragon. The Transmutant vigilantes of Mustangia." Celestia gestured to the Transmutants as she said their names. A few people gasped in shock, some in surprise, and others in horror. An awkward silence filled the air along with the small chirps of a cricket. The Transmutants began to grow uneasy. Celestia kept her smile, but she was growing worried as the silence continued. Suddenly, from the back of the stage, clapping was heard. The Transmutants turned and found Blaire and Sapphire applauding them. Sapphire nudged a guard next to him, causing him to hold his spear by his arm as he clapped as well. From among the crowd, a few people began to give scattered applause and cheers for the Transmutants.
"Woo!!" cried a woman from the crowd. More people began to applaud genuinely or out of politeness for these Transmutants. Some did not even clap at all. The Transmutants began to relax themselves after several cheers.
"Let the celebration begin!" said Celestia proudly.




Later that night...

The Transmutants remained together and as close to the princesses and guards as much as possible. They were standing together in silence as people continued to enjoy the festivities of the event. Manda tapped her foot impatiently with an anxious expression on her face. She turned to face Blaire and Sapphire.
"Hey, you girls wanna hang out?" asked Manda. Blaire and Sapphire looked to her in surprise at how she broke the silence. The two guards looked over to Celestia.
"With your permission, your majesty." said Blaire as she bowed her head. Celestia gave her a motherly smile.
"Of course." said Celestia. The two guards looked to Manda with a smile and began to follow her out to the crowd. Baragon and Goro remained.
"Man." said Baragon anxiously. He then felt a tap on his shoulder and found a guard handing him a card. He looked at it with a smile.
"Why don't I get you guys something to drink while I'm at it?" offered Baragon.
"That won't be necessary, sir." said the guard. A couple of other guards silently groaned in annoyance to themselves.
"Come on! My treat!" said Baragon.
"You aren't even paying for it." deadpanned the guard.
"No. But you guys don't have to go anywhere to get Cider." said Baragon. He then turned and began to make his way down the street. Goro sighed. Luna looked to him in confusion.
"What was it that sir Baragon received?" asked Luna.
"Apparently a card for free cider for this event." answered Goro.
“Wait, isn't the cider here alcoholic? Is that wise?" asked Luna worriedly.
"It takes a lot for Transmutants to get drunk, depending on the strength of the alcohol. It should be fine." said Goro. He then looked down in thought. "Then again, it wouldn't hurt to keep an eye on him."
"Indeed." said Luna. Goro began to follow Baragon through the crowd of people. The Transmutants crossed the sea of many humans. Along the way, Goro met with a few people who gave him the stink eye. He nervously continued on, ignoring their stares. He found Baragon at a vendor where a man stood next to several barrels.
"I need myself five mugs of cider." said Baragon as he placed the card on the table. The man analyzed the card with his eyes and then scowled.
"Damn it." said the Earth bound as he handed the Transmutant the card back. He spent the next minute filling up the mugs up with the beverages. "Do me a favor. Try not to burn through my supply of cider."
"Sure." said Baragon in annoyance. Goro felt a tug at his shirt and turned to find a child staring at him with wide eyes. With him were a couple of other children.
"Oh, hello little ones." said Goro with a friendly smile.
"Hey, what's it like turning into those big monsters!" asked the child, eager to learn about the Transmutant. The rest of the children began to pester Goro from an answer, who wore a vague smile.
"Great, we're a walking freak show now." griped Baragon. Goro cleared his throat.
"Well, it's..." Goro was about to explain, but then he noticed a woman rushing over to the children.
"Hey, I told you three not to wander off!" scolded the woman.
"But mom, we wanted to meet the Transmonsters!" said the kid. Baragon sighed in annoyance.
"It's Transmutants. Not Transmonsters." corrected Baragon. The woman noticed the men and then placed on a nervous smile.
"Oh! Um...I'm terribly sorry if my children were being rude." apologized the woman.
"No it's no trouble at all." said Goro with a smile.
"What about my question?" asked the kid with a frown. Goro cleared his throat.
"Well, when we change, it's possibly the worst experience a living thing could experience." said Goro as he began to recall the changes. He kept a nonchalant tone about it. "You see, it feels like your bones are being broken down by heavy boulders, then being reshaped like clay. Your muscles feel like they're being torn by the claws of wolves and your organs are moved around to fit in your new body as they grow."
"Uh..." Baragon turned and glanced at Goro with a deadpanned stare. Goro continued with his description.
"Your organs feel like they're being impaled by wooden spears as they are reshaped and moved around in your body. It feels like an hour before you finish transforming. Your skin even begins to strain when you start to grow scales. The eyes, oh those are terrible when you transform into an insect. Those things just grow in your skull!" said Goro as he kept a nonchalant tone. "It's the most painful thing that you could ever feel."
Goro then turned and noticed the expressions of the woman and her children. The children wore disturbed expressions and were as pale as ghosts. The woman wore a look of horror at the description that she and her children had heard. Goro's shoulders slumped as he saw their expressions as an awkward silence filled the air while Baragon face palmed in response. One of the younger children suddenly burst into a crying fit, causing a few heads to turn. Goro noticed the stares and then began to sweat.
"Um...Thank you for that...fascinating explanation." said the woman with a forced smile. Goro chuckled nervously.
"Too much?" asked Goro. The woman did a hissing intake of air from behind her teeth as she kept her forced smile and nodded.
"I do believe you scarred my children for life." said the woman in a calm tone. She then began to usher them away.
"Is this man insane?!" the woman whispered to herself. The closest people continued to stare at the Transmutants. Some even looked to Goro in disapproval.
"Right." said Goro with a frown.
"You know, I would have just left it at, 'extremely painful'." said the man that had finished filling the mugs with cider. Baragon snorted in agreement.
"Nice first impression, dumbass." said Baragon. Goro lowered his head in shame as he slumped his shoulders.
"I know." said Goro, glumly.




Meanwhile...

Manda, Sapphire and Blaire strolled together through the crowds of people that enjoyed the festival. The three heard a commotion going on. Curious, they began to follow the cheers and found themselves arriving at a table where a crowd was gathered. The crowd was watching two muscled men straining as they arm wrestled. Their faces were beginning to sweat. The men groaned as one began to gain the edge. His arm began to weigh down on his opponent's, bringing it down onto the table. The small crowd erupted into cheers as the winner stood with his hands in the air.
"Oooh! I gotta participate in this!" said Manda in an eager tone. Blaire and Sapphire looked to her in confusion.
"Uh..." Sapphire was about to protest but was interrupted.
"Who's next?!" asked the man in a challenging voice. Manda grinned.
"Me! Me! Me!" said Manda frantically as she waved her hand in the air. The crowd turned and their faces turned to shock in surprise. The man chuckled in response.
"You sure about that, lady?" asked the man in a mocking tone. Manda smirked.
"Pfft! Am I sure?" said Manda as she looked to Blaire and Sapphire. She then began to make her way over to the table and sat across the man. She placed her elbow firmly on the table as she had her hand out.
"I'll go easy on you." said the man as he locked hands with Manda. Her toned arms were smaller in build compared to the man's more rounded muscles. But, Manda's confidence defied what the people thought of her chances at winning.
"Don't." said Manda. The two locked eyes as they firmly held each other's hands. After a couple seconds of mental preparation and breathing, they were ready.
"Go!" said a man on the sidelines. The Earthbound and Transmutant began to use their strength against each other to bring each other's arm down. The man began to strain as his face slowly turned red. Manda smiled as she kept her arm locked, refusing to budge. The man was sweating as he groaned. The crowd watched in awe as the Transmutant slowly began to bring the man's arm down. Blaire and Sapphire were cheering Manda on with excitement. Manda grinned as she brought the man's arm down lower. But, her ears caught the sound of a panicked voice calling for help. Manda's eyes wandered to the side and found a woman panicking as she held onto an older man. His face was turning blue as he struggled to breathe. Manda's eyes widened in horror.
"Oh, gosh!" cried Manda as she quickly brought her opponent's arm down on the table.
"Ow." said the man as he rubbed his wrist from the sudden force. The crowd erupted into cheers but began to trail off as Manda stood from the table and ran away.
"Help! My father is choking!" cried the woman in panic. The Transmutant ran over to older man and wrapped her arms around his belly as she got behind him.
"I got ya!" said Manda as she stood the old man straight. She then squeezed her arms against the man's stomach and made him convulse and cough up a large piece of a carrot. The man began to wheeze and cough furiously as Manda gently lowered him to the ground. She then held the man's arms in the air.
"Breath with me, man!" said Manda as she began to take exaggerated breaths. The old man began to take wheezing breaths as he followed Manda's breaths.
"You OK?" asked Manda worriedly.
"I...I think you might have cracked one of my ribs." said the old man as he felt his lower side. "Ouch! Yeah...it's broken."
"Sorry, I don't know my own strength sometimes." said Manda shamefully. The man took Manda's hand and shook it furiously.
"No, you just saved my life young lady!" said the older man. He sluggishly stood up to his feet. "I may have been injured, but I get to return home and to live to see my family again!"
"Wha..." Manda looked to him in confusion. The old man brought her into a tight hug.
"Thank you very much!" said the old man. He then released Manda and made his way over to his daughter and wrapped her into a hug. Manda looked on in surprise and then heard the sound of clapping. She turned and found the crowd that was watching her arm wrestle were applauding her for her act. She shyly rubbed her arm in response.



Goro and Baragon walked side by side through the crowd. Some people greeted them with friendly waves while others cast them weary glances. Goro began to grow more comfortable with walking among the humans since he was meeting with a balance of friendlies compared to unfriendliness. The two made their way down and began to hear the sound of wood slamming together. They spotted two men carrying long wooden staffs as they stood on top of a narrow bridge that stood over a large pool of water. The two men grunted as they swung their staffs at each other, clashing the wood as it caused a bang. One of the men was swiped off of his feet by the other by the staff and fell into the pool of water. Cheers erupted for the champion.
"You want a go?" asked Goro. Baragon shrugged.
"Beats doing nothing but drinking the night away." said Baragon. The two began to wait in line for several minutes. When it was Goro's turn, he succeeded in knocking his opponent into the pool in under four seconds. Some people complained, claiming it to be unfair due to him being physically superior to the rest. Baragon remained in line as silent as possible, but  he wore a scowl.
"Fine! I'll challenge him since you guys are so afraid to take on big bad Transmutants!" said Baragon in a mocking tone.
"Oh, this should be interesting." said a man from the crowd. Baragon began to walk up the stairs towards the bridge and caught a staff that was tossed to him. He looked down and found the pool of water, waiting to catch anyone who fell. He gulped nervously.
"You alright, Baragon?" asked Goro.
"I'm good." lied Baragon. He then cleared his throat and got into a fighting stance as he held the staff in his hands. Goro readied himself as well.
"Good luck, short stack!" called a woman from the crowd. A few other people began to laugh in amusement.
"What did you call me?!" demanded Baragon as he looked to the woman as he waved his staff.
"Baragon, let it go." said Goro as tapped his staff on the bridge, grabbing Baragon's attention. Baragon sighed in exasperation.
"Whatever." said Baragon. The two men began to stalk closely to each other as they readied to strike. Goro thrust his staff forward, leading to Baragon to lean to the side. He then countered by swinging his staff at Goro's feet, but the taller man hopped over to the staff and thrust his own at Baragon's gut. The shorter Transmutant staggered back as he began to wobble. He immediately regained his balance and caught another strike from Goro. The two Transmutants began to hold their staffs sideways and began to slam them against each other in attempt to shove the other away. Suddenly, both of their staffs snapped in half. The Transmutants looked to the two half's of their weapon in confusion. The two then tossed one half of their own staff and continued to fight with their remaining half. They swung at each other as if they were swinging swords. Goro then thrust his broken staff at Baragon, who caught it with his own broken staff. Baragon forced Goro's staff down to the bridge, both glared at each other as they were locked. Goro shrugged off Baragon's staff and then swung at Baragon's foot.
"Gah! Dick!" said Baragon as he hopped on one foot. Goro twirled his broken staff and turned it sideways. He attempted to use the side to shove Baragon away but the shorter man immediately brought his staff in front sideways. The two began to slam their broken staffs together to shove each other. Again, the staffs snapped in half again. The two looked at their broken half's and groaned in annoyance.
"Wow, again?" asked someone from within the crowd. Goro and Baragon tossed on broken half away and placed both hands on the small half of their broken staffs. They began to hold their weapons sideways and began to rapidly slam their sticks against each other as they circled around. The two began to pant as they stopped to rest. They then broke into a war cry as they continued to slam their sticks against each other, causing them to snap again.
"Seriously?" asked a woman from the crowd. Goro and Baragon looked at the smaller half's of their broken staffs in confusion. They both closely analyzed their own sticks as they tossed the other half. Goro began to tap his shorter stick against his head in thought. Baragon continued to analyze his stick as he looked it over. The two glanced at each other and then immediately broke into a fighting stance. Both held their arms forward as they kept their hands on each end of their own stick.
"No way." snickered another person from the crowd. The two Transmutants stared each other down as they prepared to strike. Both of their shoulders were tensed as they watched every move of the other. Baragon released one end of the stick and then quickly struck Goro's left hand. He yelped as he waved his hand while he held onto his stick with one hand. He then immediately returned the action against Baragon's right hand.
"Ow! Asshole!" said Baragon with a glare. He then slammed his stick against Goro's hand. Goro returned the action. Baragon hesitated to return the attack and then immediately regretted it when Goro beat him to it. Baragon waved his stricken hand to relieve it the pain. The two stared each other down before the other could strike. Goro swung his stick again towards Baragon's hand but stopped before he could reach it. Baragon reacted to the falsified strike by pulling his hands away with a cocky smirk. His eyes widened as he realized that Goro had pulled his strike away at the last second. He was then struck in the forehead, causing the Transmutant to drop his stick.
"Oh, come on!" said Baragon as he clutched his forehead. Goro then swung his stick at Baragon's foot, causing the man to hop on one foot. Suddenly, he lost his footing and fell over the bridge. He landed in the pool of water. The crowd applauded Goro, wearing amused smiles. Goro chuckled as he thought back to the whole match.
"Help me! I can't swim!" cried Baragon from the water as he splashed frantically. Goro's eyes widened. He then looked down and found Baragon squirming on his feet in the water as he splashed.
"I'm drowning! Help!" cried Baragon as he continued to splash. Goro began to stare at the Transmutant with a deadpanned look. Baragon was standing with the water reaching just below his chest.
"Baragon, that water only reaches to be four feet."  said Goro. Baragon stopped panicking and splashing. He then slowly raised himself higher from his bent knees and found himself standing over the surface.
"Oh." said Baragon in surprise.




Later...

Goro and Baragon sat at on a bench. Baragon's hair was drenched as was his clothes. A towel was wrapped around his shoulders as he sat down with a scowl. Goro glanced over to him.
"You never told me that you couldn't swim." said Goro.
"I don't want to talk about it." said Baragon with a glare. Goro shrugged in response. The two spotted Manda, Sapphire and Blaire approaching. The women were laughing as they conversed.
"So, I was like, 'Sir, I don't know kung fu. I'm not from that part of the East!'" said Manda.
"Wait, do you know any martial arts?" asked Sapphire in between laughs.
"Nope! But I thought it'd be fun to humor him." said Manda with a laugh.
"Ah man. I remember how Goji use to practice some martial arts that his old man taught him before he passed away. He would always practice in the guard's training room when he thought no one was watching. Little did he know that big sister was watching!" laughed Blaire with a look of nostalgia on her face. She then noticed Baragon and Goro sitting on the bench.
"Oh, hey guys!" greeted Blaire with a wave. Sapphire smirked in amusement as she noticed Baragon's drenched form.
"What happened to you?" asked Sapphire.
"I lost to Goro in the Staff fighting competition." answered Baragon with a scowl. Manda made her way over to him and took a seat next to him.
"So, how's your night?" asked Manda.
"It's alight." answered Baragon with a sigh. He then noticed a stand where it displayed a sign.
"Oooooh shit! Chili!!" cried Baragon. He immediately removed his towel and began to rush over to the stand. Manda's face brightened into a smile. She then faced the guards and Goro.
"You guys want any?" asked Manda.
"No thanks." declined Goro.
"I'm good." said Blaire. Sapphire made her way up to Manda.
"I'd like some. I'll go with you." said Sapphire. Manda nodded in response. The two women made their way to the stand, leaving Blaire and Goro alone. Blaire chuckled.
"Wow. I can't believe this is happening." said Blaire with a smile. Goro looked to her curiously.
"Oh?"
"I mean, I can't believe that on this night, we have Transmutants walking among us as clear as day, and no chaos has erupted out of it." said Blaire with a smile. She made her way over to Goro and sat next to him. "Honestly, it's a miracle."
"I agree. Things haven't been easy for us Transmutants for these last few years. We have always faced danger from MONARCH and prejudice from other humans." said Goro with a sigh. Blaire frowned.
"I'm sorry to hear that." said Blaire. She then looked away and sighed. "It makes me wonder how Goji is holding out in the world."
"Who's Goji?" asked Goro, curious to know what this individual had to do with Transmutants.
"He's my little brother. Well, not really my brother. He's like a brother to me." said Blaire. She cleared her throat. "Princess Celestia took a little orphan boy in and raised him as her own over a decade ago. He was the son of an old friend of hers. When I found out that the kid was lonely, I took it upon myself to spend time with him. Next thing I knew, I started calling him brother."
"He's the boy that Celestia took in and who turned out to be a Transmutant?" asked Goro. Blaire nodded.
"He is." said Blaire.
"What did you think when you found out?" asked Goro. Blaire frowned.
"I was shocked. I couldn't believe that Goji was a Transmutant. I mean, he just seemed so normal. No offense!" said Blaire worriedly.
"None taken." said Goro as he waved his hand.
"He did a good job at blending in. I guess the only hint was his abnormal strength as a non-magical Earthbound." said Blaire. She then crossed her arms as she looked down sadly. "I didn't care about him being a Transmutant. But I was worried for him, especially when he ran away. I know Goji. He wouldn't hurt those he loves. Not on purpose, at least."
"I see." said Goro. He looked down, sympathetic for the Valkyrie. The guard reached under her breast plate and into her shirt breast pocket. She pulled out a photo.
"This was him when he was a little kid." said Blaire as she held the photo to Goro. He took it into his hand and unfolded the photo. He found a younger Blaire during her early twenties hugging a little boy with charcoal grey hair and yellow eyes. He looked at the photo with a smile.
"This is a wonderful photo." said Goro as he handed the picture back to Blaire.
"I'm hoping that it will not be the last." said Blaire with a frown. Goro shared her frown as well.
Back at the chili stand, Baragon strolled over to the counter. He met a brunette young Earthbound woman with a Stetson hat on her head. She smiled at him as she leaned against the counter.
"What can I do you for, hun?" asked the woman in a southern accent. Baragon placed a grin.
"I'm a fan of chili. What do you got?" asked Baragon. Behind him, Manda and Sapphire were approaching.
"Well, we've got mild, spicy, volcanic, and hellish." answered the woman with a smile. She then ducked under the table and pulled out four containers. Each one was labeled with the names that she gave off. "You could add this with some chips or with the peppers itself. Some folks love dumping peppers into chili and taking a bite."
"Damn. Those must be some hardcore customers." said Baragon.
"You bet, sugar." said the woman with a wink. Baragon chuckled in embarrassment. Manda's eyes widened and immediately began to scowl.
"So, what'll it be?" asked the woman.
"I'm feeling daring tonight. I'd like to try the hellish chili along with a chili pepper to dip in it." said Baragon. The woman smirked.
"It's pretty hot." said the woman.
"Is it as hot as you?" asked Baragon with a grin. Manda scoffed as she placed a hand on her hip. Sapphire crossed her arms with a look of annoyance. The woman merely chuckled in response. She then began to get a paper bowl and used a plastic spoon to scoop the hellish chili and dumped it into the bowl. She then took a couple chili peppers and stuck them inside. She then placed a couple of chips as well.
"This is on the house, hero." winked the woman. Baragon smiled in response. The woman cleared her throat. "You sure you can handle it?"
"Handle it? Pfft! I'm a Transmutant. If I can survive receiving as many shots from a gun that could kill a man, I think I could handle chili." retorted Baragon in confidence. Manda glared at him from behind, irked at how her friend confidently complimented this stranger on her looks and not her own. Baragon took the chili pepper and dipped it inside of the hellish chili and took a bite. He began to crunch the pepper, slowly feeling the spiciness build up in his mouth.
"Mm. Pretty good." said Baragon as he spoke with his mouth full. He could not bring himself to swallow. He then waved his hand slightly. "It's a little...ahem...spicy."
"Yeah, it gets a little hotter as it sits in your throat there." said the woman as she sipped from a bottle of cider.
"Mmhm." Baragon nodded in agreement. His throat strained to give the response as it was assaulted by the blistering spice. His face was turning red as his eyes began to water and his face began to sweat. The woman flinched in response.
"You OK?" asked the woman in worry. Baragon nodded. He then pointed to the other direction, over to where beverages were being sold. His face continued to sweat as he finally managed to swallow the pepper. His throat began to burn.
"I understand." said the woman. Baragon nodded and immediately turned and found Manda looking to him in worry. He handed her his bowl and broke into a sprint.
"Oh my God! I swallowed the very fires of Hell!" cried Baragon. Manda and Sapphire broke off into a sprint, chasing after the shorter Transmutant. He ran passed a stage where a large bellied man with a white Stetson hat was on stage. Music played from the speakers as he danced on stage with a microphone in his hand.
"Ooooh don't cha wish your girlfriend was hot like me? Don't cha wish your girlfriend was a freak like me?~" sang the man as he shook his rear. Parents covered the eyes of their children that were watching the performance. Sapphire stopped and noticed the performance. She stared in confusion.
"What the hell?" Sapphire tilted her head, dumbfounded at the sight.



Baragon sat down at a table chugging down a large bottle of water. He sighed in relief as he set the water bottle down. Manda sat next to him along with Sapphire.
"Man, I felt like I was going to die." said Baragon.
"Yeah, what a tease." muttered Sapphire in annoyance.
"What was that?" asked Baragon with a raised brow.
"Huh?" asked Sapphire in an innocent tone. Baragon shook his head and continued to drink his water. Manda cleared her throat.
"Well, you seemed to be awful friendly with that vendor." said Manda. Baragon nearly choked on his water and back washed a bit of it inside the bottle.
"Gross!" said Sapphire in disgust. Baragon panted as he tried to catch his breath.
"Wha...what do you mean by that?" asked Baragon. Manda sent him a glare.
"Don't play dumb! I heard everything that you said!" spat Manda. Baragon recoiled from her tone. "How come when I asked you how I looked, all I got was, 'alright'?!"
"Um..." Baragon looked away nervously. Sapphire whistled to herself as she looked away. Secretly, she was enjoying the moment.
"Do you think I'm ugly or something?" asked Manda in hurt tone. Baragon's eyes widened.
"Wha- No! No, of course not!" said Baragon.
"I don't believe you." said Manda as she turned away with her arms crossed.
"Manda, come on!" said Baragon. He then turned to Sapphire with a helpless expression.
"Hey, this is on you." said Sapphire as she looked away. Baragon sighed in exasperation.
"Manda..." Baragon gulped nervously. "Listen, I don't think you're ugly. You look...pre- no, beautiful."
Manda slightly glanced at Baragon as he rubbed the back of his neck. A light blush appeared on his face. He cleared his throat.
"I...said that you look alright, because I was embarrassed to say what I actually thought how you looked. I was only able to say that woman was hot because there was no chance of me seeing her again after tonight. With you, you're closer to me and it's harder for me to compliment you." admitted Baragon in embarrassment. "You know how it is right? You don't want things to get awkward between friends if you were to compliment them like that."
"Was that vendor prettier than me?" asked Manda as she turned to face Baragon.
"No. You get a bonus with the pony tail." said Baragon as his blush brightened. Manda's face reddened from the compliment. She smiled to herself as she rubbed her arm. Sapphire raised a brow as she sipped from a straw of her soda. Manda pulled Baragon into a hug.
"I forgive you!" said Manda as she squeezed Baragon. He groaned in pain as he smiled.
"Good...to know." strained Baragon.




Later that night...

It has been a few hours since the event had begun. It was past midnight, so some people were still awake during this night while others went home earlier to get a quick night's sleep before awakening later. The Transmutants, Blaire and Sapphire were sitting with the Princesses at a table.
"Princess Celestia and Princess Luna, we thank you for inviting us to this event. It's been a wonderful experience." said Goro.
"The pleasure is all mine, Goro." said Celestia with a smile. Luna nodded in agreement. Manda nudged Baragon's shoulder.
"Come on and say it." said Manda with a smile. Baragon sighed.
"Thanks for the free cider. And for not arresting us and locking us up fifty feet under." said Baragon. Celestia gave a half amused smile.
"Oh, of course." said Celestia.
"I'm serious about that last one by the way. I heard that Transmutants that get captured by MONARCH are sent to a prison in Neighpon and are locked up miles underground." said Baragon with a shudder. Celestia's eyes widened.
"I...had no idea." said Celestia. Baragon chuckled bitterly.
"Yeah, there's a lot of shit people don't know about MONARCH." said Baragon. Celestia slightly winced at his swearing, but kept quiet about it.
"Such as?"
"Well, for one-" Baragon was about to spill some of MONARCH's dirty secrets but was interrupted.
"Baragon, now is not the time to get into the subject. Perhaps we can discuss it another day." suggested Goro.
"What? Why-" Baragon looked to him in confusion. Goro shot him a silencing glare. Baragon sighed in response. Celestia looked the Transmutants over in confusion. Goro looked back to her with a smile.
"So, I heard that your adopted son was a Transmutant. Could you tell me a bit about him?" asked Goro.
"Oh, certainly!" replied Celestia. She reached over for a satchel that she had and fished for the desired object. She took out a picture frame of herself and of Junior. She handed it to Goro. "This is Gojira Takeshi the 2nd. My adopted son."
"Wait, Takeshi? As in, the family famous for its role as warriors for the Old and New Empire of Neighpon?" asked Goro in surprise. He began to look the picture over and found the resemblance of the boy that was in Blaire's photo.
"The very same." answered Celestia. Baragon looked over the picture in surprise.
"Wow, the princess's adopted Transmutant son does exist." said Baragon to himself. Manda looked over the photo with a smile.
"I bet this kid was popular with the girls!" said Manda.
"Not exactly." said Blaire with a sigh. She then smiled in amusement. "Well, at least several months ago, he was."
"This is impossible." said Goro to himself. Everyone looked to him in confusion.
"What does thou mean?" asked Luna.
"The Takeshi clan died off over two decades ago after their feudal war with the Spider-Crab clan. Gojira the First was the last of his clan and was said to have perished during an attack of the Alpha. I never heard of him having a son." said Goro. Everyone except for Celestia looked on in surprise.
"Gojira the First did die, but the information about his demise is false." said Celestia. She pulled out a journal from her satchel and showed it to Goro. "Junior wrote that he and his father were in fact, the Transmutants known as Lucky Dragon and Alpha. His father was the Alpha."
"Shit." said Baragon in surprise.
"So, that's why he's run away." said Goro to himself. He then noticed Celestia's eyes glistening with tears. She immediately wiped her eyes and cleared her throat.
"Goro, may I ask you a favor?" asked Celestia.
"Of course." replied Goro.
"Junior, he's the world to me. I can't search for him, wherever he may be. No matter how much I want to, my duties as princess are stopping me." said Celestia. She looked to him with pleading eyes. "Please, could you perhaps look out for him? My sister visited him in his dreams and was informed that he would be returning as soon as possible. I wish that you inform as soon as possible if you see him."
"Of course, your majesty." said Goro as he bowed his head. Manda and Baragon nodded in agreement. Celestia smiled in response.
"Thank you all." said Celestia. She then stood up to her feet. "It is about time for the main event."
The crowd began to gather around a stage where a sculpture of a crescent golden moon with solar spikes around the edges stood on a pole. The Transmutants stood front at the front row of the crowd next to Blaire and Sapphire. Luna and Celestia made their way onto stage, standing side by side. Luna closed her eyes as she spread her wings and her hands were engulfed in her magic aura. The moon began to lower out of sight of the people. Celestia unfurled her wings and began to hover above ground. Her hands were engulfed in her magic aura as the sun slowly began to rise past the moon. She flew in sight of the center of the sculpture and was engulfed in the sun's bright light. A great glare flew around the area, creating an orange apparition of Celestia as the light shone brightly. The Transmutants stared in awe at the light, mesmerized by it as the darkness hid away. Manda looked to Baragon with a smile.
"Glad you came?" asked Manda.
"Honestly, I kinda am." said Baragon with a smile. Manda slowly reached for his hand and held it firmly. Baragon cleared his throat and looked away in embarrassment. Manda smiled to herself as she watched Celestia descend back down to the stage, where she was greeted with applause. This was the dawn of a new day, a day where humans and Transmutants will begin to strive to live in harmony.