Celestia sat on her throne with a vague smile as she looked down towards Junior, Koizumi and Mosura. Luna sat by with a scowl on her throne as she looked down on Koizumi. A few guards stood by with raised brows as they stared at the mercenary. Koizumi merely grinned while Junior and Mosura stood by with neutral expressions.
"So...you want a job?" asked Celestia.
"Yes, your majesty. I think that you would benefit from my experience and skills," said Koizumi. Celestia cleared her throat.
"Right. Please excuse me when I say this, but Equestria has no use for mercenaries." said Celestia with a laugh.
"Ah but here's the best part! I wouldn't be paid to assassinate anyone you want gone! I'll instead train your guards who are inadequate in combat!" said Koizumi. The guards shot Koizumi a glare in offense while Celestia merely chuckled.
"I assure you that the royal guard-"
"Will easily get their asses handed to them unless they receive more training," said Koizumi. Junior sent him a glare.
"You're not very good at offering your service," whispered Junior.
"More training?" asked Celestia.
"Princess, your country hardly seems to deal with internal conflict let alone from foreigners. Your lower ranking men are soft," said Koizumi.
"By whose standards?" asked Luna.
"His," answered Junior and Mosura in unison. Celestia placed a hand under her chin as she pondered Koizumi's offer.
"Junior, what do you think?" asked Celestia.
"Pardon?" asked Junior as he tilted his head.
"Do you think the royal guards can benefit from different methods of training from someone who claims to have the skills and experience of a former MONARCH soldier?" asked Celestia. Junior raised his hands.
"Wait. It's not really my place to give my personal opinion on royal matters," said Junior with a chuckle. Celestia merely smiled.
"Tell me, son," said Celestia. Junior sighed as he scratched his head.
"I...suppose it wouldn't hurt the royal guards to adopt a few new tactics. Just to guarantee the safety of the citizens and you," said Junior. Celestia nodded to him as she leaned back on her throne. Luna glanced at her curiously.
"Well said. That is their duty and it shall remain to be so," said Celestia. She looked towards her sister. "What do you say, dear sister?"
"The invasion during the Royal Wedding did show us that we have grown too relaxed with our peace and let our guard down. This could be good for all of us. I have been meaning to get back into training myself in the art of combat," said Luna with a smile.
"Sister, it's not like we're going to war!" said Celestia.
"Of course not. I just believe it's important to know how to fight. You ought to practice your combat skills yourself. Your rear could be toned a bit," said Luna. Celestia blushed in embarrassment.
"I-It does?" asked Celestia as she glanced down at herself. Junior looked down at the ground as he tightened his lips shut, attempting to keep a laugh from escaping.
"Lay off the cake for a while," whispered Luna. Celestia moaned in disappointment. She turned her attention back to Koizumi.
"How much do you desire for your service?" asked Celestia.
"Just five hundred bits a week to train all of your lower ranking guards," said Koizumi. Celestia looked down in thought.
"Sounds fair enough. You'll start tomorrow morning. I expect you to give us results on their progress. I shall have the higher ranking guards observe," said Celestia. Koizumi nodded.
"Cool. Maybe we can exchange tips," said Koizumi as he bowed before the princesses.
"Thank you for your time your majesties. A pleasure doing business," said Koizumi. He then patted Junior on the shoulder.
"Thanks a lot, pal. You just helped a man in need," said Koizumi with a smile as he began to walk down the hall. Junior slightly shuttered.
"For some reason, I don't like him thanking me," said Junior. Mosura raised a brow.
"Oh, don't worry. It's not like you helped him get hired to assassinate a politician," said Mosura. Junior nodded.
"I guess," said Junior. He then noticed Luna and Celestia walking down the steps from their thrones. The two royal Avatars approached the Transmutants.
"You really think that my rear is getting-" Celestia whispered to Luna with a worried look.
"Just a little," Luna whispered back with a small smile before turning to face Junior.
"I'm curious, sir Gojira. What was it that persuaded you to help this man?" asked Luna with a glance.
"Honestly, I wasn't going to because of his affiliation. But he seems to have a bit of an understanding on taking certain actions when left with no other alternative," said Junior. Celestia looked to him confusion.
"Certain...actions?" asked Celestia. Junior sighed.
"Forget it. I don't think you'd understand," said Junior as he began to walk away. Celestia grabbed his hand, stopping him in his tracks. Junior avoided looking at her.
"Junior, look at me," said Celestia. Junior looked towards her hesitantly. She looked to Junior with worry. "Let's talk about this,"
"I really don't-" Junior tried to avoid the subject with Celestia.
"No, as your mother, I think we should talk about this," said Celestia. Luna cleared her throat.
"We'll give you two some privacy. Guards, come along," said Luna as she walked towards the exit door of the throne room. Junior looked to Mosura with pleading eyes.
"I'll be outside. Don't worry," said Mosura as she gave him a reassuring smile. She began to follow Luna and the guards outside of the throne room, where they shut the doors. Junior sighed as he faced Celestia, who walked him over towards the steps that led to the throne and sat down with him.
"Junior, tell me what's wrong," said Celestia.
"I'm sorry. I just can't pretend that what happened never did," said Junior. He turned to Celestia with as he shook his head. "I'm constantly hearing whispers behind my back in the damn halls. It's always, 'How can the princess let such violent beasts into her castle?' or 'That boy was always trouble. Did you hear how he killed those Changelings',"
"Junior..." Celestia reached for him but the Transmutant pulled away. She lightly gasped as she saw the glare that he gave her.
"Don't pretend what I did never happened! Don't pretend I didn't stain the streets and the castle grounds with their blood!" said Junior.
"Junior, I'm not pretending that it never happened! Is this what this is about? You think just because I run this country in an effort for peace that I would judge you just for killing invaders?" questioned Celestia.
"Do you?!" demanded Junior. Celestia grabbed him by his shoulders and held him tightly.
"No!" answered Celestia.
"Then why haven't you said anything about it?" asked Junior. Celestia sighed.
"What's there to say? I'm appalled that you, my son, had taken so many lives? I'm disgusted?" asked Celestia.
"Honestly, I'd feel better that you'd come out and say what you feel," said Junior as he turned away. The Avatar frowned as she lowered her head.
"Junior, I have lived a lot longer than you have. I've seen violence of a magnitude worse than what I witnessed on that day. I think it is tragic that you had to resort to violence, but I'm not angry or disgusted with you. You helped saved many lives," said Celestia. Junior glanced at her as she wore a frown.
"Ignore what they whisper in the halls. I know what you did and why you did it. You're not the only one who's taken a life before,"
"What?" asked Junior in shock. He could never see someone as kind and motherly as Celestia ever killing another person.
"It was over 900 years ago. I was leaving my throne one night and headed for my chambers to rest. Luna was absent due to her banishment, and I was still grieving as if she had just been banished yesterday," said Celestia. She removed the ring that was on her middle finger, which was connected to the white gloveless sleeve that reached near her shoulder. She rolled the sleeve up and turned over her left arm and showed it to Junior. He spotted a very faint scar that appeared to be nearly gone.
"When I arrived, I was unaware of someone hiding inside. I heard someone approaching and turned to find an Elf lunging at me with a dagger. Startled and afraid, I tried to do whatever it took to fight him off. He ended up cutting me here and my right leg when I kicked him away," said Celestia as she moved her gown and held up her white stocking covered leg. She patted her calf to where she was cut and placed her leg down as Junior listened. She placed a hand over her forehead as she sighed. "He came at me again, swinging his knife like a madman. Next thing I knew, I had killed him with my magic,"
"I...I had no idea," said Junior with a frown.
"It's very obscure in the history of Equestria. No one wanted to know that their beloved Princess was nearly assassinated and that she killed her attacker," said Celestia with a scoff. She turned to face Junior with a frown.
"Like you, I'm not perfect. I did what I did because I wanted to live. I'll be honest, I've been afraid to die. Even for someone like me who's lived a long and good life. But now I worry of dying because I'm not ready to leave you or any of my subjects alone," said Celestia. She held his cheeks as she smiled warmly at him. "I want to see you grow so that my kingdom can be passed on to the next generation, so that they may continue to spread love and friendship across the land. That is my greatest dream,"
"Don't talk like that. You make it sound like you're dying," said Junior as his voice slightly cracked and his eyes were wet with unshed tears.
"Far from it," said Celestia as she held Junior. She planted a kiss on his cheek as she hugged him.
"I love you. Just remember that," said Celestia. Junior nodded.
"I'll always remember that," said Junior with a small smile.
Neighpon...
Battra roamed the lair of the Revolutionaries in silence. He clicked his tongue to rid his mind of the nervousness he felt. He walked down towards an open room where he found Megaguirus sitting on her rear as she dragged a stone over the concrete ground. He made his way over to the Transmutant, finding her to be well after being released from the medical wing. Battra took a deep breath to calm his racing heart. He then placed on his normal, neutral expression to hide his anxiety.
"Hey, I...what are you doing?" asked Battra. Megaguirus gasped as she dropped the rock and sat down on what she was carving on the ground.
"Nothing! it's nothing!" said Megaguirus with a nervous smile. Battra gave her a suspicious glance. He then shrugged.
"OK. I hope you won't mind than if I just..." Battra crouched down as he placed his hands around Megaguirus's waist. She gasped as she felt him raise her into the air and moved her to the side. She banged her fist against him.
"No don't look!" pleaded Megaguirus. Battra sat her down and quickly made his way to where Megaguirus was carving. The female Transmutant grunted in frustration as she tackled Battra to the ground as she held him tightly.
"I'm serious!" said Megaguirus as she held him tightly. She pinned him down to the ground as she wrapped her legs around his waist and her arms over around his neck. Battra struggled as he grunted in annoyance.
"Why is it such a big-" Battra was about to finish as he turned his head to face Megaguirus. He noticed how close her face was to his own. Their lips were just inches from each other as they stared into each other's eyes. He felt Megaguirus's limbs loosening their constriction over his neck and waist. Megaguirus broke into a bright blush as her breathing grew soft while Battra smiled in embarrassment as he caught her scent at such a close distance.
"Huh. You smell really nice today," said Battra. Megaguirus grinned in embarrassment.
"Yeah? Uh...you too!" said Megaguirus with a nervous laugh. The two remained in this position for several seconds in an awkward silence. Battra took the time to look over to where Megaguirus was carving and found that she was chalking up the floor with the stone. It was a white image of a very realistic cat. The white was toned and contrasted with the grey concrete on the ground.
"Did you draw this?" asked Battra in surprise. Megaguirus slightly shifted over him and raised herself. She sat over his waist as she twirled with the long strands of hair from her side burns. She avoided eye contact with him as she bore a frown.
"Yeah," answered Megaguirus.
"Why were you trying to hide this? It's amazing!" said Battra.
"One, it's not finished. Two, it's embarrassing," said Megaguirus. Battra looked to her incredulously.
"You're embarrassed? Why?" asked Battra.
"I don't know. I mean, look at it! It's not that great!" said Megaguirus. Battra stared at her blankly and then glanced back at the image. He then looked back to Megaguirus.
"Well, maybe because it's not finished," said Battra with a chuckle. Megaguirus scoffed as she punched Battra's chest.
"Ouch! What?" asked Battra in annoyance as he rubbed his chest to relieve it of pain. Megaguirus crossed her arms as she looked away.
"That's not funny," said Megaguirus.
"I wasn't trying to be funny. Meg, you have a talent and this is nice. Give yourself credit!" said Battra. Megaguirus lightly smiled at him as she leaned down over him. She stared at him seductively as she ran a finger over his cheek.
"Keep flattering me and you just might get lucky," said Megaguirus with a wink.
"Would our position right now be considered me being lucky?" asked Battra. Megaguirus stopped as she stared at Battra blankly. She leaned back and sat over his waist again. She looked behind herself and blushed brightly.
'I never realized I was so close. Ugh, I'm such a skank,' thought Megaguirus with a deep frown.
"Oh. Too much?" asked Battra with a frown. Megaguirus turned around and placed on a forced smile.
"No, no! I'm the one who went too far," said Megaguirus as she stood up.
"Wait, you never take the blame with flirting except for that one time with Hok," said Battra. Megaguirus made her way over to the image that she was carving and picked back up the stone. She dragged the stone along the image, attempting to give the appearance of fur, while blushing brightly as she avoided eye contact with him.
"I just need to concentrate on this, alright?" asked Megaguirus. Battra sighed in disappointment.
"OK. Sorry to bother you. I just wanted to see if maybe you... No, forget it. It's not really important," said Battra as he placed his hands in his pockets and turned away. Megaguirus stopped as she heard his disappointed tone. She turned around and found Battra walking away as he headed back for the hall.
"Battra!" called Megaguirus. The male Transmutant stopped and turned to face Megaguirus. She stood to her feet after she placed down her stone.
"What did you want to ask me?" asked Megaguirus in a timid voice. Battra cleared his throat as he slowly approached her. Megaguirus did the same as her heart raced in her chest. Battra stopped as he grew flustered.
"I wanted to know if....you uh..." Battra exhaled deeply as he looked away. He muttered to himself as he looked to the ceiling. Megaguirus made her way closer to him.
"Yeah?" asked Megaguirus. Battra looked down to her and sighed.
"Would you like to accompany me for a....for dinner?" asked Battra. Megaguirus's eyes widened in surprise.
"W-Wait, are you-"
"I know this nice little café that's close to the forest! We can just have some food and maybe chat a bit," said Battra as he chuckled nervously. Megaguirus merely smirked.
"Oh, I don't know. I mean, we don't really have any funds on us," said Megaguirus with a shrug.
"I've managed to make some money just by taking a few small jobs," said Battra. Megaguirus raised a brow.
"Does Destoroyah know?" asked Megaguirus.
"No, he doesn't. Don't tell him either," said Battra in a serious tone. Megaguirus nodded with a small smile.
"Hmm. It's a date then," said Megaguirus.
"Date?! Who said anything about a date? I didn't say date! We're just hanging out as friends rather than professionals," said Battra with a nervous smile. Megaguirus recoiled at his tone. Her brows furrowed as she was about to berate him for making her think that they were on a date. She then noticed how stiff his posture was and how his cheeks flushed. Her cheeks grew red as well as she relaxed her brows. She then smiled as she chuckled.
"Alright. Let's go 'hang out'," said Megaguirus as she nudged Battra's chest. He nodded in response.
"Uh...feel free to wear whatever you like," said Battra as he turned. Megaguirus grabbed his arm as she grinned at him.
"I like that jacket. Make sure you keep it on," said Megaguirus with a wink. Battra nodded as Megaguirus released him. He quickly walked down the hall as a small smile formed on his face. Megaguirus held her arms behind her back as she giggled.
"It's totally a date," said Megaguirus, pumping her fist into the air in triumph.
Later that night...
Battra and Megaguirus walked side by side down the streets of Trotkyo. The city was bustling as cars drove down the road and pedestrians walked across the street to get to the other sidewalks. Battra bore a nervous expression as he casted a glance at Megaguirus. She wore a pair of violet jeans with a black coat on. She lightly smirked as she caught Battra glancing her way, prompting him to tear his attention away.
"So, you've been to this place often? Mr. Second in command," asked Megaguirus.
"Not really. I have dropped by for a meal every once in a while. But I haven't been there in months," answered Battra. He lightly smiled. "The coffee is nice, the food is well made. I've had a hard time sticking with certain places since they don't put enough care into their food,"
"Bleh! I hate coffee so much." said Megaguirus as she stuck her tongue out in disgust. "It just sticks with your breath after drinking it and it tastes terrible! Yet it's so damn addicting!"
"That's a shame," said Battra with a shrug. The two made their way down the sidewalk until they found a small establishment just around the corner. They were in an area that lacked the tall buildings that made up the city. Instead, there were smaller establishments along with a nearby neighborhood. The two Transmutants made their way inside of the establishment, where they were led to their seats after a few minutes of waiting for a table. The two sat down across from each other at a booth as they looked over their menus.
"Hey, what do you recommend?" asked Megaguirus.
"Well, their pork buns are good. Uh...their curries are spicy, not sure if you're a fan of that. There's also..." Battra was going to finish his sentence until he heard a voice interrupting him.
"Good evening. I will be taking your orders tonight," said a woman with short hair. She then looked down to Megaguirus who sat down scanning through the menu.
"May I start you two off to drink?" asked the woman.
"I'd like a cola," said Megaguirus as she scanned through the menu. She then brightly smiled as she found her desired meal. The woman nodded as she jotted down the order. She turned to face Battra.
"And what would you..." the woman's voice trailed off as she stared at Battra with wide eyes. She began to tremble as her breath was caught in her throat. Megaguirus raised a brow as she gave her a glance. Battra stopped looking at his menu and glanced at the woman. His eyes widened in shock as he found the woman staring at him.
"Yasu-san?" asked the woman with wide eyes. Megaguirus's eyes widened as she quickly looked to Battra.
"Mai Yoshida?" asked Battra, his heart jumped with anxiety.
"What the fu-?" Megaguirus cocked her head in confusion. Suddenly Mai grinned as she wrapped Battra into a tight hug,
"Oh my goodness! It's been so long!" cried Mai. Megaguirus's eyes widened in horror as she watched this mysterious woman holding her date. She furrowed her brows as she clenched her fists.
"But... It's only been over six months since we've each other," grunted Battra as he felt Mai crushing him with her hug.
"What?" growled Megaguirus. Battra tensed as he noticed Megaguirus's piercing glare.
'Oh shit,' thought Battra. Mai released Battra as she noticed Megaguirus.
"Oh. Is this the sister that you were talking about? So you two patched things up!" said Mai. Battra frowned as he thought back to Mosura. Megaguirus's eyes glared at her in offense but then noticed Battra's expression.
"No. This is Megaguirus. A friend of mine," said Battra. Mai chuckled in embarrassment.
"Oops! Sorry about that. You two have that rocky theme going on, so I thought you two were related. My mistake," said Mai. She then looked to Battra curiously.
"So, how are things with your sister?" asked Mai. Megaguirus sent her a glare.
"Now's not-"
"She recently passed away," said Battra as he stared down at the table. Megaguirus looked to him in surprise at how he answered Mai's question without hesitation. Mai's eyes widened and she slumped her shoulders as she stared at Battra. She took on a sympathetic look.
"I'm...I'm so sorry," apologized Mai as she lowered her head. "I...probably shouldn't have asked. I didn't mean to-"
"No. No, it's fine. You didn't know," said Battra with a sigh. He stared down at the silverware at his own reflection. For a brief second, Mosura's cheerful smile replaced his reflection. He bore a bitter smile.
"I'm just happy to know that...she still loved me as her big brother. Despite my mistakes," said Battra. Megaguirus reached for Battra's hand as she held it tightly. Mai lightly frowned at Battra’s misfortune and felt sympathy for him.
"Can I...get you something to drink?" asked Mai. Battra nodded.
"Yes. I'd like some coffee," said Battra. Mai smiled.
"Hmm. Coming right up. Also, it's me who'll be making it for you this time," said Mai with a wink. Battra lightly smiled as he gave her a nod. As the Earthbound left the table, Battra turned to find Megaguirus wearing a frown.
"Are you going to be alright?" asked Megaguirus as she ran her fingers over Battra's hand. She had reverted back to speaking Equish. The male Transmutant nodded in response.
"Yeah, thank you," said Battra.
"Good," said Megaguirus. She then glared at him as she tightened her grip on his hand, causing Battra to grunt in pain as he clenched his teeth. Megaguirus pulled his hand, forcing Battra closer to his end of the table.
"You mind telling me who the hell was that?!" demanded Megaguirus as she whispered with a sharp hiss. Battra chuckled nervously.
"Uh..." Battra looked away, unsure how to explain that he spent the night with a human on Hearth's Warming.
"The truth!" said Megaguirus. Battra recoiled.
"I-"
"I'll break your fingers if you don't spill the beans, you damn player!" said Megaguirus.
"Player?!" exclaimed Battra. A few people turned to face him with quizzical stares, causing the Transmutant to chuckle nervously. He cleared his throat as he furrowed his brows at Megaguirus.
"Look, she's just some woman that I saved from being raped by three other guys," said Battra. Megaguirus furrowed her brows.
"So she's like some love sick puppy?" asked Megaguirus. "You two seemed awfully friendly with each other, especially for a misanthrope like you,"
"Don't be ridiculous! It's nothing like that! She just invited me over to her home for coffee as gratitude," said Battra with a scoff. He then sighed as he rubbed his neck. "I also...sort of stayed over at her apartment at night when we were watching a film,"
"You stayed over her apartment at night?!" demanded Megaguirus. Battra recoiled from her tone, regretting that he brought up the fact. "When were you going to tell me about this?!"
"Meg, this happened way before I met you! Why is it a big deal?" questioned Battra.
"Because! You...you kept your human girlfriend a secret from me and the others! Did you bring me out here to introduce us?!" demanded Megaguirus.
"No! And She's not my girlfriend! Besides, I didn't know she worked at this café. I hardly even come here!" said Battra in exasperation. Megaguirus sighed as she rubbed her temples.
"Look...I'm sorry. It's just a big shock to me that you made friends with a human and you never told anyone. Not even me," said Megaguirus in a hurt tone.
"Megaguirus, we're more like acquaintances. I left the next morning with a note. I told her that I didn't plan on seeing her again because of personal issues, which is code for my job as second in command of the Revolutionaries. I didn't bring it up because it doesn't matter," said Battra.
"Battra...you said you saved her. Why?" asked Megaguirus.
"What do you mean?" asked Battra with a raised brow.
"Don't play dumb. You don't give a shit about humans. Why did you save her?" asked Megaguirus. Battra rubbed his forehead.
"I don't...I don't know. I wasn't going to, but I just couldn't stand hearing her beg for someone to help her," said Battra. He sighed in frustration. "It's hypocritical of me to have saved her when I've killed civilians without hesitation."
"Yeah. I...I remember hearing how you and a few others have a habit of doing that," said Megaguirus as she glanced away from him. Battra frowned as he inhaled deeply.
"I...I notice you aren't a fan of that," said Battra.
"Well it's just...I don't know!" said Megaguirus as she looked away.
"You do know," said Battra.
"It's just that I don't think it's necessary to involve these civilians, right? I mean, they can't hurt us!" said Megaguirus.
"But they can ostracize us and band together to crush us." said Battra. He shook his head. "We'll never be safe if we just-"
"I'm calling bullshit," deadpanned Megaguirus. Battra's eyes widened in surprise as he stared at Megaguirus. The female Transmutant sighed as she took Battra's hand.
"I can see how you don't feel right about it anymore. You only want to stop MONARCH," said Megaguirus. Battra stuttered out a response.
"Feel....right about it? I don't feel anything about it!" said Battra. Megaguirus scoffed in response.
"If that's the case, then why didn't you just leave that girl alone?" questioned Megaguirus. Battra looked frantically as he tried to think up a response. He sighed as he rubbed his temples.
"Her cries were annoying. I had to stop them somehow," said Battra with a neutral expression.
"Mm hmm," hummed Megaguirus sarcastically. She then noticed Mai approaching with a cup of cola and a coffee mug. She placed them down on the table as she smiled at the two.
"So, what can I get you?" asked Mai. Battra began to place his order as Megaguirus glanced at him. She sighed in annoyance.
'Why can't you just be more honest with yourself?' thought Megaguirus with a frown. Lately, Battra had seemed to have been losing that bottomless fighting spirit to conquer the humans and free all Transmutants. His heart didn't seem to be in it and it worried her because she felt it would cause him to make irrational decisions that could him endanger others and himself. She couldn't lose him like that.
Later...
Battra stood at the counter where Mai was jotting down information on a piece of paper. Megaguirus stood by with a scowl on her face. Mai handed the small piece of paper to Battra as she smiled brightly.
"This is my address, in case you forgot. Feel free to drop by sometime! Bring your friend along too!" said Mai. Megaguirus glanced at her as she raised a brow.
"I'll uh...I'll see if I can make time," said Battra. He turned and made his way down to the exit door. Megaguirus fumed with jealously as she followed Battra out the door. Mai waved to them. She stopped as she sighed and puffed her cheek out.
"'Not boyfriend material,' huh?" asked Mai in annoyance. She smirked as she popped her knuckles. "Well, technically she's just a friend. I might just have a chance,"
Outside of the café, Battra and Megaguirus walked down the street in silence. Megaguirus sighed in exhaustion. She noticed how Mai would bat her eyelashes at Battra in the café. She cleared her throat as she bumped shoulders with the Transmutant.
"Well, that was...interesting," said Megaguirus. Battra cleared his throat as he looked away with a frown.
"I'm sorry. I didn't mean for this night to turn out like this. I was hoping we could just spend time together as...normal people," said Battra. Megaguirus smirked.
"Are you going to take me out again?" asked Megaguirus.
"If you'll allow me," said Battra. Megaguirus chuckled.
"Just ask me. Besides, we can still spend more time together tonight before we head home," said Megaguirus. Battra lightly smiled.
"What did you have in mind?" asked Battra.
The sound of loud, muffled music filled the air. A large building sat in the city where a large line of people waited outside to enter. The thumping sound of the beat filled a great room where dozens of people danced in clusters. Blue lights shined down over the dancers. At the very entrance of the dance club stood Battra and Megaguirus, where several other humans walked down to the dance floor. Megaguirus bore a look of excitement as she bobbed her head to the beat of the music. Battra stood by with a reluctant smile as he watched the people dance and as the loud music beat against his ear drums. A couple of women gave him flirty smiles as they walked by. Megaguirus glared at them as she made a cutting motion over her throat. The women gulped nervously as they quickly turned and walked briskly to the other side of the dance club.
"So...you come here often?" asked Battra as he leaned close to Megaguirus as he spoke as loud as he could. The loud music interfered with his voice.
"No, but I think I'm going to for now on!" replied Megaguirus. She grabbed his hand and rushed with him down the dance floor. She and Battra ended up standing in the middle of the dance floor where several other people were dancing either alone or with partners. Megaguirus rocked her hips as she swayed her arms from side to side. Battra smiled in amusement. He began to lightly bob his head as he joined Megaguirus to dance with the music. The two spent the next few minutes dancing. A few of the people that were inside of the dance club caught sight of these two, admiring their appearance.
"Who's that guy?" asked a woman as she stood with her friends.
"I don't know but he's hot!" said another woman with a grin. A few men stared at Megaguirus as they watched her dance with Battra.
"Damn. So glad I came out here tonight," said a man with a grin.
"I know. Wait a minute..." said another man. He was an Earthbound with grey hair. He watched as Megaguirus and Battra made their way over to the bar. He squinted his eyes as he tried to get a better look at the female Transmutant.
"Hey, that's Megaguirus," said the grey haired man. He made his way over to the area where the Transmutants sat at the counter, where they ordered a couple drinks. Megaguirus nudged Battra's shoulder as she wore a grin.
"I didn't know you were good at dancing," said Megaguirus.
"I'm a martial artist. I'm pretty limber," said Battra with a chuckle. He took a sip of his glass and sighed.
"Man, it's noisy in here. I'm starting to feel hot," said Battra as he unzipped his leather jacket.
"Well, that's the point of dance clubs, genius," said Megaguirus with a laugh. Her eyes widened in alarm as she caught sight of a grey haired Earthbound approaching. She turned away and held her hand by her face. Battra raised a brow at her.
"What's wrong? Are there MONARCH agents here?" asked Battra as he tensed his muscles and glanced to where Megaguirus was looking away from.
"No! No, that's stupid!" said Megaguirus with a nervous laugh.
"What's wrong with-" Battra was interrupted as he found the grey haired Earthbound man take his seat next to Megaguirus.
"Tonbo-chan?" asked the man. Megaguirus went stiff as she gulped.
"Shit," muttered Megaguirus. Battra raised a brow in confusion. The female Transmutant turned to face the man with a forced smile on her face.
"Oh, hey! Uh...um..." Megaguirus snapped her fingers as she searched her memory for the name of this familiar face.
"Shinji," said the Earthbound.
"Shinji! Yes, Shinji!" said Megaguirus with a nervous laugh.
"Megaguirus?" called Battra. He cocked his head in wonder. He was unsure of who this man was and how his fellow Transmutant had never seemed to mention knowing another human. He was noticing a parallel of a certain situation that took place earlier.
"Hey babe, you never called! What's up with that?" asked Shinji. Battra's eyes widened.
"Uh...'call'?" asked Battra.
"Oh uh..." Megaguirus tapped her fingers on the counter in discomfort. Her eyes darted all around.
"Tonbo?" called another male voice. Megaguirus turned and found a blonde haired Earthbound approaching.
"Oh, you have got to be friggin' kidding me," said Megaguirus with a scowl. She gasped as she noticed three other men approaching as well. Her skin went pale like the full moon.
"Babe! Where you been?" asked one of the men.
"Oh...no," said Megaguirus with dread.
"Who are these men, Megaguirus?" asked Battra. Shinji glared at Battra.
"Hey, where do you come off calling her by her first name? Chump," said Shinji as he made his way over to the Transmutant. Megaguirus's eyes widened.
"Shinji, he's-" Megaguirus raised her hand, but Battra turned from his seat and looked towards the human with a look of amusement.
"I'm a very close friend of hers," said Battra. Shinji looked like he was taken aback by the confidence that was in Battra's tone. His smug expression annoyed him.
"Yeah? Never heard of you," said Shinji. A few of the other men arrived with looks of confusion.
"Wait, who the hell are you guys?" asked Shinji.
"What? I know this sexy thing right here! Ain't that right baby?" asked a green haired Valkyrie as he grinned at Megaguirus. The Transmutant sighed in response.
"I flirted with you a couple of times. You act like we went to third base with each other," deadpanned Megaguirus. The rest of the men chuckled in amusement. Megaguirus then looked to the other men with a look of annoyance.
"That includes the rest of you! Don't act like we were going steady!" said Megaguirus.
"Aw don't be like that! Come on, let's ditch this loser and have some real fun!" said Shinji. Battra wore a scowl as he drank a shot of his alcoholic beverage.
"Uh uh! She's going with me!" said the blonde man as he shoved Shinji. The Earthbound shoved him back. Soon, the men began shouting threats to each other. Their attempts to intimidate each other like animals competing for a mate annoyed Battra. Megaguirus sighed as she hid her face from him. Her cheeks were red with shame. Battra turned to face the men with a stern expression.
"Hey, would you horny mutts mind leaving? Megaguirus and I are in the middle of a date," said Battra. Megaguirus turned and looked to him in surprise. She never thought that he would openly admit that the two were on a date. Shinji turned to face him with a glare.
"What did you say?" demanded Shinji as he got in the Transmutant's personal space.
"Get out of my face. Your breath smells like shit," deadpanned Battra. Shinji hardened his glare as he reared his fist back and punched Battra across his face. Battra lightly grunted as the fist connected with his cheek. Megaguirus gasped as she jumped in her seat. Shinji then grabbed Battra and shoved him out of his seat, knocking him to the ground.
"I couldn't hear you over the sound of you falling over," mocked Shinji. He then grinned at the female Transmutant as he winked at her. Megaguirus glared at him as she stood from her seat.
"Yeah, no," scoffed Megaguirus. Shinji glared at her.
"No? Fine whatever. I never knew how much of a slut you were until tonight," said Shinji. Megaguirus's eyes softened. Shinji gestured to the other men. "I mean, now I know how you like to fool around with a bunch of other guys,"
"Shut up! You don't know shit about me!" said Megaguirus.
"I know you're a slut. I bet you're infected with all kinds of nasty diseases from other guys. Gross!" chuckled Shinji. Megaguirus clenched her fist as she glared at Shinji. The insults wretched her heart as she knew how people ridiculed and judged her for being a notorious flirt. . She then noticed Battra rising to his feet as he glared at Shinji.
"Hey," called Battra. Shinji turned around with a scowl plastered on his face.
"My baby sister could hit harder than you," said Battra. He then suddenly reared his fist back and sent a powerful punch against Shinji's cheek, causing him to fly several feet away. He skidded across the ground as his mouth bled from the teeth that were knocked out. Battra glared at the other men as his popped his knuckles.
"Sorry boys. The lady is with me," said Battra as he popped his neck. Megaguirus's heart pounded in her chest as she lightly smiled at Battra. The other men backed away from Battra nervously.
"She's all yours man," said one of the men with a nervous chuckle. Battra relaxed his muscles as the men began to disperse. A few people stared with nervous expressions from witnessing the entire scenario. Baattra sighed as he rubbed his cheek. He turned to face Megaguirus as he felt her take his hand.
"Let's go home," said Megaguirus with a frown. Battra nodded to her in agreement.
"Sure," said Battra. The two made their way out of the dance club and found themselves walking down the street. The evening grew later over Neighpon, yet people were still out and about on this evening.
"Well, it looks like I'm not the only one who's been keeping secrets from the rest of the group," said Battra. Megaguirus bore a frown as she looked away from him.
"Battra...I'm sorry. I didn't mean for this to turn out this way. Those guys...they don't mean anything to me!" said Megaguirus.
"I know you didn't. I just never knew how flirtatious you could be," said Battra.
"I'm not always proud of it," said Megaguirus as she held her hands in her sweater pockets. Battra glanced at her with pity.
"You were right about me. I'm not proud of what I've done to civilians," admitted Battra. He began to look at all of the humans that were walking in the city. "I used to be. Now I'm sick to my stomach just thinking about it,"
"And those guys were right about me. I am disgusting," sighed Megaguirus. Battra reached for her hand and took it in his own. Megaguirus glanced at him with a frown. Battra merely smiled at her.
"You're not what Shinji saw you as. He lacks respect for himself and for those around him," said Battra. Megaguirus gave him a bitter smile.
"Jerk. Don't lie to me," said Megaguirus.
"I'm not. I care too much about you to do so," said Battra. Megaguirus smirked.
"So...were we on a date?" asked Megaguirus. Battra sighed as he looked with away with an embarrassed smile.
"I want to say no. Only because I don't think this would be an ideal first date," asked Battra.
"To most people, no. But you standing up for me...I think that made the night for me," said Megaguirus as she began to walk closer to Battra. He lightly smiled as he brought an arm over her.
"Well, I'm glad that some good came out of this night," said Battra.
"Me too," replied Megaguirus.
Zebrabwe...
The sun was setting over the Western half of the planet. The MONARCH base that was established in Zebrabwe sat in the fields, undisturbed by any outsiders. Sunset Shimmer leaned against the wall on her bed. Erika sat on her end of their quarters in silence. The Transmutant was busy reading over a magazine that showed off different kinds of flowers. She sighed as she looked at the beauty that nature offered in its gardens. Sunset raised a brow as she heard the sigh escape Erika's mouth.
"Are you checking out guys or something?" asked Sunset. Erika merely laughed in response.
"No. I'm just looking at these flowers," said Erika as she turned her magazine over and showed the images to Sunset. The Elf leaned closer to the magazine from her end of the room. She lightly smiled as she spotted the elegant petals that were formed on the flower head and how their bright colors stood out from the bushes.
"Wow, those are pretty!" said Sunset. She observed the images that depicted flowers such as gardenias, roses, daisies, azaleas, etc. They were images taken of gardens that earned their place in the magazine.
"I know! Plant life is just so beautiful!" said Erika with glee. She laughed as she continued to read through it.
"I never knew you were into flowers," said Sunset.
"Oh yeah, I love flowers. Roses are my favorite kind of flowers." said Erika. She then chuckled in amusement. "Kinda ironic how I was mutated with one. Well, something like a rose,"
"What do you mean?" asked Sunset.
"Well, I was told that I was crossed with both Alpha's Transmutant DNA and this new rose that they said worked like a fly trap. This would explain how I can sprout rose heads at the end of my tendrils," said Erika. Sunset shuddered.
"And here I thought roses couldn't get more painful," said Sunset. Erika laughed as she nodded in agreement.
"No kidding. Roses have thorns. Flytrap roses have teeth," said Erika. Sunset sighed as she lied down. Erika glanced over at Sunset with an unsure expression.
"Sunset," called Erika.
"Yeah?" answered Sunset Shimmer. Erika lowered her magazine as she rubbed the back of her head.
"Do you believe in ghosts?" asked Erika. Sunset raised a brow and then snorted in amusement.
"No, not really," said Sunset.
"Right," answered Erika with a frown as she read through her magazine. Sunset lost her look of amusement and looked to her friend in worry.
"Why do you ask?" asked Sunset.
"Oh. It's nothing. I've just been kinda spooked lately since that new robot was moved in," said Erika.
"You mean Kiryu?" asked Sunset. Erika nodded in response.
"Yeah, him," said Erika.
"Him?" asked Sunset as she cocked her head. Erika chuckled nervously.
"It! I meant, it!" said Erika.
"Riiight," replied Sunset with an unsure tone. Erika cleared her throat.
"I've uh...I've seen that thing when I was alone in the Mech Hangar. Damn thing gave me the creeps when it ended up scanning my identity and when it spoke in that creepy, distorted voice,"
"Oh yeah. I heard how that thing was busted when it fought Lucky Dragon. That bastard keeps getting away," spat Sunset in frustration. She then grinned as she stared up at the ceiling. "Well, they're almost done fixing it. Next time, I bet he won't get away,"
Erika sighed as she lied down on her own bed.
"That robot gives me the creeps though. Something seems off with it," said Erika.
"Off?" asked Sunset.
"Yeah. I don't know what though. I'm just not comfortable around it," said Erika. Sunset smiled in amusement.
"Ah you're just being paranoid! You're worried that it's going to turn on you because you're a Transmutant and because its A.I. malfunctioned," said Sunset. Erika gasped as she turned to face Sunset.
"It malfunctioned?!" exclaimed Erika. Sunset lost her smile and immediately turned to a neutral expression.
"...I don't know," said Sunset as nonchalant as she could. Erika glared at her.
"How could you not know?! You just told me it malfunctioned!" said Erika in a whiny tone. Sunset laughed nervously.
"Did I?" asked Sunset.
"Yes!" said Erika.
"Oh. Well, you'll be fine! Like I said, they're fixing it!" said Sunset with a forced smile.
"Well I hope so. I rather not get my ass shot by a metal dragon," deadpanned Erika. She sighed as she rubbed her head.
"You didn't know it malfunctioned?" asked Sunset.
"No. I wouldn't have gotten close to that thing if I knew it malfunctioned. I could've been killed if that thing's identification scan didn't work." said Erika. Sunset smirked mischievously.
"Well, the thing could be haunted. Who knows, maybe a ghost is trying to contact you from the grave," said Sunset as she waved her arms in the air. "Woooo,"
"Stop that!" said Erika with a glare. She grunted in annoyance as she held her magazine back up to her face with a scowl. "You're freaking me out,"
"Alright, alright," chuckled Sunset as she leaned back against her wall. Erika glanced at Sunset as she bore a frown. The memory of the glowing orb that led her into Hangar returned to her. It dumbfounded her how she was the only person to have seen it when it floated down the halls in front of a dozen soldiers. The thing that puzzled her the most was why she was led into the mech hangar. The voice that called out to her when she was all alone with the mech drilled itself into her memory. Erika could not make heads or tails over whether the voice was real or if it was her imagination. She wanted to bring the subject up with Sunset Shimmer, but she thought that perhaps she did just imagine what she saw.
Erika sighed as she placed her magazine under her bed and turned off the lamp that was on her side of the room. Erika pulled the covers back on her bed and began to snuggle underneath. Sunset proceeded to do the same on her side of the room. She popped her joints before sighing in relief.
"Goodnight Erika," said Sunset as she yawned. Erika placed her head down on her pillow as she clutched her blanket.
"Yeah. Goodnight," said Erika. She stared at the wall for several minutes. She later began to hear Sunset Shimmer snoozing peacefully. Erika sighed as she closed her eyes and began to drift off to sleep.
The sun was shining over a great field. Around the field were destroyed shacks that gave off smoke from the fires that turned the wood into ash. Erika was armed with a rifle as she stood with Sunset Shimmer and several other soldiers. They were all covered in dirt and scars from battle. Erika searched the area with her heightened sight.
"The area appears to be clear, sir," said Erika as she looked towards an older Valkyrie soldier.
"Can't be too careful, private. Everyone sweep the area. Shiragami, you remain here with Kiryu," said the Valkyrie. Erika went stiff at the order that she was given. She slowly turned around to find the mecha dragon standing a few feet behind her with its golden eyes glowing. Erika gulped as she turned to face her commanding officer again.
"Sir, wouldn't it be best if we both came along with the rest of you? I mean, Kiryu could provide cover fire," said Erika with a shrug. The Transmutant felt like she was going to have a heart attack just by knowing that the machine had its sights on her back.
"Negative. We need you two are going to need to make sure that we aren't boxed in by the Changeling swarm," said the commanding officer. He then looked towards the other soldiers.
"With me!" said the C.O. as he marched towards the more clustered areas of debris. Erika reached her hand out for the C.O. and wanted to call out to him, but held her tongue. She looked to Sunset with pleading eyes, who gave her a reassuring smile in return.
"You'll be fine," said Sunset with a nod. She began to follow the rest of the soldiers as they fanned out in the area. Erika heard the sound of mechanical whirring behind herself, prompting her to turn and find Kiryu lowering its head to look down at her. Erika chuckled nervously as she found herself under its gaze.
"So...you like...sports or something? Or maybe you like math! Cause...you're a computer?" Erika sweated profusely as she stared into the ominous optics of the mech. The machine remained silent as it continued to stare at her. Erika grew anxious as the machine intimidated her with its cold and emotionless stature. The mech lowered its head even further as its glowing optics turned dark and then gave a low whirring sound. The mech hunched over as its arms lowered down to its sides. Erika gasped as she stared at it in alarm. The machine had suddenly shut down, right in the middle of a mission.
"Oh, you gotta be kidding me!" said Erika as she dropped her rifle and ran towards the mech. She slapped her hand on its chassis in hopes of starting it back up. She was no tech genius nor did she understand how the machine worked, but she was willing to try anything to start it back up, despite being afraid of the machine. Erika grunted in frustration as she banged her fist against the chassis and then against the head.
"Turn back on you stupid piece of-" Erika was about to slam her fist against the mech but it she stopped when she caught the optics abruptly glowing again. Erika retracted her fist as she gasped. The mech's yellow optics suddenly turned into a hellish red. The mech suddenly swiped its arm at Erika, knocking her off of her feet, causing her to skid across the ground. Erika groaned as she shook off her disorientation, only to look up and to find Kiryu raising its arms at her with the gauntlet guns pointed straight at her. Erika gasped as she watched the mech's head sparking as it began to convulse randomly.
"E-E-E-E-Eliminating T-Tar-Target," said the mech as its voice became distorted. The cannons attached to Kiryu's gauntlets fired orange bolts towards the Transmutant. Erika yelped as she rolled away from danger. She stood up to her feet and stared in horror as several rockets flew down towards her. As the rockets dropped down all around her, she was engulfed in a fiery explosion. From the fires and explosions, Erika screamed in agony. Erika skidded across the ground with her body smoking and covered in burn scars. Her suit was burned all around, exposing her thighs and arms. Erika panted as she pressed her hands on the ground in attempt to push herself up. The sound of metal stomping towards her with slight whirs reached her ears. She slowly turned and found Kiryu stomping towards her as its head continued to convulse all around. Erika began to hyperventilate as she stared at the machine.
"Sunset, help!!" cried Erika. The mech suddenly grabbed Erika by her neck and lifted her into the air. The fires from the explosions raged around the two, filling Erika's lungs with smoke. Erika growled as she morphed her arm into her bone club and slammed it against the head of the mech. Kiryu's head was forced to the side as chunks of metal was scrapped off of the side of its head. The mech gave a screeching, electronic roar as it threw Erika down on the ground. The Transmutant attempted to stand back up but she was forced back down onto the ground as Kiryu stomped on her chest. Erika groaned as she attempted to force the mech's foot off of her body but failed. She looked up and gasped as she found Kiryu staring down at her with half of its metal face gone. Wires hung from the left side of its face as its glowing optic glowed dimly in the socket of its head. Erika noticed a bizarre trait of the exposed face of the mech. Under the dark wires, Kiryu had what appeared to be muscle tissue bleeding out. The exposed optic glowed brighter and exposed a skull's eye socket holding the mechanical eye. Erika stared in horror as the mech leaked the crimson liquid down from its chassis and down to the ground and Erika. The Transmutant ran her hand over cheek as a drop of the crimson liquid fell on her cheek. She stared at her hand as she began to tremble at the sight.
"What the hell is this?!" exclaimed Erika. She noticed Kiryu moving its arm. She tore her attention away from her stained hand and found the mech reaching for its face. The mech grabbed a loose end of the metal that covered the circuits in its head and then yanked as hard as it could. Sparks shot all around its head as crimson liquid sprayed all around the ground. Erika's blood ran cold as the mech revealed its exposed face to her.
Under Kiryu's facial plating were bloody wires and mechanical joints that allowed the jaws to open and close. Instead of a metal endoskeleton skull like most mechs bore to allow movement, there was instead a bloody dragon-like skull with the yellow optics built into its sockets. The sharp bone teeth were hidden behind the metal rectangular teeth that were built into the roof and bottom of the jaws. Kiryu gave a ghostly moan as its head convulsed, allowing wires to tear and blood to stain the ground around the pair. Erika screamed in terror as she stared at the monstrous machine. Kiryu suddenly dove towards her face as it opened its jaws and revealed its sharp teeth. Erika immediately closed her eyes as the machine’s opened jaws were about to descend on her face.
Erika cried out as she shot her eyes open and rose up. Her heart raced in her chest as she panted. Her eyes searched frantically for her surroundings. The mech was no longer standing on her body. In fact, she was no longer outside on a battlefield dealing with invading Changelings. She was back inside of her chambers. Erika turned and found Sunset sleeping peacefully in her bed on the other side of the room. Erika reached for any wounds on her body and found herself to be unharmed. Her heart still pounded in her chest as she thought back to her dream again. The Transmutant lightly whimpered as she held her knees against herself. She never had nightmares like that and she was always skeptical about ghosts, monsters, and zombies. The nightmare likely occurred from her talk with Sunset and her teasing over a haunted machine. Erika sighed as she lied back down. She turned her head and found her digital clock displaying the hour. It was 4:30 in the morning.
"I can't sleep now. Not after that dream," said Erika as she took off her blankets and got out of bed. She made her way over to her drawer and pulled out a pair of socks. She proceeded to place them on along with her military boots. The Transmutant slowly made her way out to the door and stepped out of her chambers. Erika wrapped her arms around herself as she roamed the dark and dimly lit halls. She was visibly shaking with fear from the dream that she had. Unbeknownst to her, a moth-like creature crawled along the ceiling in the shadows. Its light blue eyes stared at Erika as she roamed through the halls alone. The fairy suddenly vanished in a flash of light.
Canterlot, Equestria...
The moon hung over the sky. The early morning sun would soon be taking its place in the sky. The calm darkness wrapped Equestria in its cool embrace as the citizens and day time creatures snoozed for the remaining hours of the night. The little moth fairy known as Amber, fluttered around Canterlot Castle. She fluttered down to the gardens and found Caesar snoozing peacefully by a statue. Alongside him were several of her fairy sisters. If she had lips, she'd be smiling at the sight. The fairy fluttered away down towards the royal guard barracks and landed near a window. Inside, she found guards and a number of MONARCH's former soldiers resting inside. Amber nodded as she took off into the air again and flew higher towards the castle. Her wings began to leave golden sparkles behind in the moonlit sky. Amber made her way up towards a wing of the castle that she recalled was where the Transmutants of the Everfree were staying in. The fairy looked over the beautiful land that the castle and city overlooked from the mountain that it was built on. She sighed to herself at the beauty that the West had to offer in contrast to the East, which she had associated as her home for centuries. The fairy found herself fluttering towards a window that led to a bedroom. Amber crawled along the balcony and found Junior sleeping peacefully in his bed. Amber used her front legs to grab the cracks of the window and slowly pulled it open. Amber crawled through the open window and fluttered over to Junior's bed. She remained still as she crouched on his bed and listened to Junior’s breathing. She slowly crawled closer to his face until she was just inches away. She lowered her head solemnly as she thought back to her discovery of Kiryu. She gently rubbed her head against Junior's cheek in an affectionate manner. Junior furrowed his brows as he felt her fuzz tickle his cheek. Amber lightly gasped and scurried away from Junior as he stirred himself awake. The young Transmutant raised himself out of bed as he slouched forward with his eyes shut. He weakly opened them and turned to find Amber on his right on his bed.
"Amber? Is that you?" asked Junior in a drowsy tone. He was incredibly tired that his eyes just could not focus on her to find her the color of her pattern. He assumed it was her due to the fact that she was the only fairy that ever approached him.
"Yes. Sorry, I didn't mean to wake you," apologized Amber as she whispered to the Transmutant. Junior yawned in response as he scratched his neck.
"I'll let it slide. What are you doing in here?" asked Junior. Amber looked down towards the bed as she lowered her antennae. She contemplated telling Junior about his father being trapped in his remains and said remains were being used as a weapon. However, she was afraid how the young man would react. Obviously there would come the disbelief and anger if he were to believe her. But she feared if it would stir any irrational thoughts in him to act on. She didn't want to put the Transmutant through more pain. Although she hardly knew him, she felt it was her duty to help guide him to be the guardian that he was born to be, like much his friends.
"I...I just wanted to check on you," answered Amber. She cleared her throat as she pawed at the bed. Junior cocked his head in confusion. He then lightly smiled.
"Well, you didn't have to wake me up to see if I was fine," said Junior in a humored tone. Amber laughed in embarrassment.
"Sorry," apologized Amber. Junior sighed as he lied back down and brought his blanket over his chest. He stared up at the ceiling in thought.
"Amber...what does it mean for us to have taken the spiritual essence of our past lives?" asked Junior.
"Oh. Well, it means that you have taken up the mantle to protect the Earth from any threat that would come against it. You are the Guardians," said Amber.
"What effect does this have on us?" asked Junior.
"You'll become stronger than any other Transmutant as your souls fully accept the Kaiju spirit essence. You will be more in touch with your senses and you will begin to draw memories of your abilities from your past life," answered Amber.
"I see. Honestly, that's kind of scary. Gaining more power so soon," said Junior. Amber nuzzled his cheek in reassurance. He lightly chuckled from the feeling.
"Don't worry. That's why we're here for you all," said Amber. Junior nodded to her as he laid his head back. He gently reached for Amber and began to run his hand over her head and back. She lightly gasped in surprise but then relaxed as she felt his fingers graze over her back. She sighed with bliss as she felt the soothing touch of his fingers.
"That feels nice," said Amber as she lied on her belly and spread her legs out. Junior gently scratched her head as she let out a purr.
"Honestly, what are you? A cat or a moth?" asked Junior in amusement. Amber lightly giggled in response. She then sighed as she rolled over and lied on her back with her legs curled against her body. She slightly turned her head and found Junior getting ready to fall back to sleep.
"Takeshi, may I...rest with you?" asked Amber in a timid voice. Junior looked to her with a raised brow. He then lightly smiled.
"Sure. Just make sure you sleep in a spot where I won't crush you," said Junior.
"Aww. I didn't think you cared about me," said Amber. Junior smirked in response.
"Sure. Make it weird," said Junior. Amber huffed.
"It's not weird! It's really sweet of you," said Amber as she crawled onto Junior's belly and began to snuggle for warmth. Junior stared at the fairy in wonder.
"You know...you kind of remind me of Mosura a bit," said Junior.
"Well, she is the Guardian of Peace reincarnated. We fairies were also based on her and took on some of her traits. So, I guess you could say we're like her," said Amber. She leaned her head against Junior's stomach as she stared into his eyes.
"Sweet dreams," said Amber. Her glowing eyes dimmed into darkness as she calmly breathed. Junior leaned back and sighed.
"You too," said Junior as he prepared to go back to sleep. He glanced back at the fairy and lightly smiled. He gently scratched her head, causing her to lightly twitch her antennae. Junior removed his hand and began to drift off to sleep.
The morning sun had risen over Equestria. The citizens of Canterlot were already up, bright and early for their daily routines. The royal guards marched around as they made their way for their posts. The rebels had taken up the job of helping the royal guard in helping watch over the city. Blaire was shouting out orders to some of the younger members that were nearby. She turned to Canterlot tower and looked towards where Junior's room was. She lightly tapped her chin in thought.
Inside of Junior's room, he was still sleeping with Amber on his belly. The fairy sighed as she snuggled against the warmth that he gave off. Suddenly, there was a knock at his door. Junior's brows furrowed as the knocks began to awaken him. The knocks continued again.
"Rise and shine, Goji~!" called Mosura from the other side of the door. Junior moaned in response as he grabbed his pillow and held it over his face.
"Five more minutes!" said Junior.
"Nope! Get your lazy butt up!" said Mosura. Junior sighed in annoyance as he threw his pillow to the side. He rose up out of bed and rubbed the sleep out of his eyes. He felt a weight roll down onto his lap. His eyes widened as he recalled that Amber was sleeping on his belly. He looked down at his lap and found the fairy on her back, still asleep. Junior sighed in relief as he lightly smiled.
"Goji!" called Mosura. Junior sighed in exasperation.
"OK, OK. Keep your voice down," said Junior. He gently scooped the cat sized moth into his arms and then gently laid her back on her belly. He picked up his pillow and sat it down. The Transmutant picked Amber back up and gently sat her down on the pillow. She slightly began to stir as her antennae twitched and her wings slightly flapped.
"Wha- Whas' goin'..." Amber's eyes slightly brightened as she attempted to move. Junior made his way over towards the door and opened it. He found Mosura standing with her arms crossed and with a scowl on her face.
"What are you doing? Get dressed!" said Mosura.
"Mosu, it's freaking Saturday," said Junior. Mosura scoffed in response.
"Have you forgotten that we're going back to Ponyville today?" asked Mosura. Junior's eyes widened in surprise.
"Oh, that was today?" asked Junior.
"Yep! We're going home!" said Mosura as she tapped Junior's shoulder. She then noticed Amber lying on Junior's pillow.
"Amber?" asked Mosura.
"Hi," greeted the fairy in a drowsy tone. Mosura looked to Junior with a raised brow.
"She was up really late," answered Junior. He cleared his throat as looked to his drawers.
"Well, I'm going to get dressed and pack some clothes. I'll meet you guys outside in the garden in a couple of hours," said Junior. Mosura nodded in approval.
"Good. Also, don't forget to say goodbye to the princesses! Especially Blaire," said Mosura as she began to stroll out to the hall.
"Of course," said Junior as he closed his door. He turned and found Amber looking at him in a drowsy stance.
"You're leaving?" asked Amber.
"Later. We'll be in Ponyville in a couple of hours. You can get some more sleep if you want," said Junior.
"Thanks. But...can we see where you live? We'll need to know where to find you," said Amber.
"Sure. Just get some sleep and I'll wake you," said Junior with smile.
Later...
Junior walked out onto castle grounds with a backpack on while holding another bag that was strapped to his shoulder. Amber sat on his other shoulder as she shook off any remaining sleep that she had. A couple of other fairies fluttered after them.
"Now, all we have to do is wait for Mosu and the others," said Junior. Amber sighed as she slumped on him.
'I really wish that I wasn't up so late,' thought Amber. A fairy with pink markings on her wings fluttered near Junior’s face as she tilted her head in curiosity.
"Hey, is it true that you have a special somebody waiting back in the town where you lived?" asked the fairy in a curious tone. Her voice was soft and gentle like a feather. Junior blushed in embarrassment.
"I uh...I guess," answered Junior. The fairy gasped as she fluttered her wings in excitement.
"Oh my gosh! You must court her before it's too late!" said the fairy. Junior lightly groaned as he looked away.
"Blossom! You're embarrassing him!" said Amber in a scolding tone.
"What? Are you his mother?" asked the third fairy. Her wings were covered in blue markings and her eyes were violet. Her voice was scratchy and sounded more rough compared to her other sisters.
"No, Cornflower. But we shouldn't get into his business when it comes to this sort of thing," said Amber.
"But he needs help to capture the heart of a young maiden! He can't possibly do that on his own! Look at him!" said Blossom. Junior looked to Blossom in offense.
"What the hell is that supposed to mean?" asked Junior.
"Oh, you know what that means, mister," said Blossom.
"No, I don't know what that means!" retorted Junior.
"You look mean! Girls don't like mean guys!" said Blossom. Junior snorted in response.
"You say that as if all of them like nice guys. From my experience, it's bullshit. Some girls like jerks for whatever weird reason," said Junior.
"Does your woman like mean guys?" asked Cornflower.
"She's not my woman. Not officially at least. Also, I don't think so. I mean, I can be a jerk. I have been to her, but only before I warmed up to her as a friend," said Junior. Blossom sighed as she landed on Junior's head.
"So the bad boy's heart was captured by the good girl? How romantic!" said Blossom. Junior scowled in response.
"Please get off my head," said Junior in annoyance.
"Bad boy and good girl? Sounds cliché," said Cornflower. Junior sighed in response. Amber nuzzled him.
"I think it's cute," said Amber.
"Thanks," said Junior in a monotone voice as he furrowed his brows. He noticed Blaire strolling over to him with her helmet held at her side. Junior greeted her with a smile, while she returned the same.
"Hey lil' bro!" said Blaire. The fairies fluttered away from Junior, allowing him to wrap his arm around Blaire for a hug. The two released each other.
"So you're headed home?" asked Blaire.
"Yeah. Mosu and the others are letting me crash at their place," answered Junior.
"That's nice of them," said Blaire. She tapped her helmet as she cleared her throat. "Well...I have a question for you,"
"Shoot," said Junior.
"The royal guard and I were impressed with your combat skills from the Royal Wedding. We could use your guys' help sometime," said Blaire.
"What do you mean?" asked Junior.
"Well, like helping with monster attacks, stopping criminals, etc. Maybe help with a Transmutant that may appear." said Blaire. Junior scratched his chin in thought.
"I can't speak for my friends, but you can count on me if you need help with anything that you guys may be struggling with. I'd do anything for you," said Junior. Blaire smiled in response. She patted Junior on the shoulder as she gave a nod.
"Thanks Goji. Also, I heard how you tried to score with Twilight. You dirty boy," said Blaire with a wink. Junior groaned in annoyance while Blossom gasped loudly.
"Who told you that?!" demanded Junior.
"The princess did," answered Blaire. Junior rubbed his brows as Blaire sighed. "You've grown so fast,"
"Indeed he has. Here I thought he had no chance with girls," said Blossom as she gave a fake weeping sound.
"Me and you both," said Blaire as she pretended to wipe a tear away.
"We weren't going to do anything like that!" said Junior in exasperation. He looked up to the heavens with a glare. "Does my embarrassment amuse everybody that you feel the need to exploit it?!"
"Takeshi, stop yelling at the sky. You'll look like a crazy person," said Amber.
"Too late!" said a familiar voice. Junior turned and found Rodan approaching with Mosura and Angirasu behind him. He also noticed Celestia, Luna, Yoshi and Koizumi coming as well. Mosura made her way up to Junior and looked to the fairies in curiosity.
"Oh! Are you girls coming with us?" asked Mosura.
"Yes! We thought it'd be good if some of us split off to remain close to the Transmutants while the rest remain with Caesar and the rebels," answered Amber.
"Oh, you'll love the lair! It's a freaking cave!" said Rodan with a grin.
"Hmm. I do miss living in a cave," said Cornflower with a positive tone.
"Not me! I want to be around nature! Trees, flowers, and cute little animals!" said Blossom with a pout.
"I don't think that'll be a problem," said Angirasu with a reassuring smile. Junior looked towards Celestia and Luna with a smile.
"So, I guess I'll be seeing you all later," said Junior. Celestia nodded to him as she bore a motherly smile.
"We will be seeing each other. Right now, we need to help the rebels settle in a more legal place. They will need all the help that we can get to stop MONARCH," said Celestia. Luna stuck her hand out to Junior as she bore a small smile.
"We look forward to seeing you again, Sir Gojira," said Luna. Junior smirked in response. He sat down his bag and made his way over to Luna. He then merely pulled the Avatar into a hug, causing her to gasp in surprise. Celestia grinned as she held a hand to her lips as she watched the scene. Luna blushed as she returned Junior's hug.
"Enough with the 'sir'. Just call me Gojira," said Junior. Luna lightly smiled in response.
"Of course, Gojira," replied Luna. Yoshi made his way over to Mosura as he reached into his pocket and pulled out a COM ear piece.
"Take this. We'll need to stay in contact with you in case we need your help," said Yoshi. Mosura nodded to him as she took the device and placed it in her pocket.
"No problem. It's been a pleasure meeting you, Yoshi. I hope we can meet again soon," said Mosura with a bright smile. Yoshi lightly smiled as a small blush appeared on his face. He just couldn't deny the cuteness in Mosura's cheerful smiles and her kind nature.
"Likewise, Yasu-san," said Yoshi. Koizumi looked over to Junior with a scowl.
"Hey! You still owe me a sparring match!" said Koizumi. Junior sighed in annoyance.
"Fine. Just not now," said Junior. Rodan made his way over to Koizumi as he cleared his throat.
"I honestly would rather fight alongside you guys instead. I feel like taking on some bad guys," said Rodan. Koizumi grinned.
'That gives me an idea,' thought Koizumi. A scheme for an exhilarating combat experience brewed in his mind. Junior gave Celestia a quick hug as the train whistle began to blow.
"We gota go! Love you!" said Junior as he released Celestia and picked up his bags. He and the rest of the Transmutants rushed out of the area and towards the train station. The fairies fluttered after them.
"I love you too!" said Celestia. Koizumi smirked.
"Momma's boy," whispered Koizumi. Yoshi glared at him as he nudged his shoulder.
"Real mature," said Yoshi. Blaire and the princesses waved to the Transmutants as they rushed down towards the train station. The Transmutants were eager to return home to see their friends again.
Zebrabwe...
Sunset Shimmer sat down on the field where the other soldiers trained in combat. She looked at Erika as she watched the Transmutant drowsily staring at the ground with bags under her eyes.
"You OK?" asked Sunset.
"Not really," answered Erika. She looked over to Sunset with a blank stare.
"I'm afraid of ghosts," said Erika. Sunset tilted her head in confusion.
"Huh?" asked Sunset.
"Never mind. I just had a nightmare last night. I woke up too early," said Erika. Sunset cleared her throat.
"Do you want to talk ab-"
"Hell no!" shouted Erika with a glare. Sunset recoiled from her tone.