"So help me, God," muttered Junior in worry as he looked down at his test. It was his algebra period, and today was test day. Algebra homework was already difficult for him, so when it came to tests, he didn’t have much confidence. He turned to his side and found Sunset giving him thumbs up as she gave him a light smile.
'Well, at least I'm somewhat prepared for this,' thought Junior, partly relieved for the last minute studying and homework reviews with Sunset. He may not get a 100% grade on this test, but he hoped that he at least would get a passing grade.
"You may begin," said the teacher. The students all picked up their pencils and went to work. Junior exhaled as he began to read the first question.
Later...
Fluttershy was looking down at her phone as she sent a text message to her mother about the plans that she had with her friends. Meanwhile, Rarity was going on about how she knew an outfit that would be fitting for Twilight. After Fluttershy sent her text, she went back to finishing her meal for lunch. Her eye then wandered over to the table where the Transmutants mainly sat. She then noticed Junior lying face down into his crossed arms on the table. Fluttershy felt gloomy vibes from the Transmutant. She swallowed her food and stood up from her seat.
"Hey, so you might not have gotten a passing grade. There's still retakes, right?" asked Rodan as he tapped Junior on the shoulder.
"I shouldn't have to retake tests. I should get a passing grade the first time," answered Junior as he kept his head down. Rodan merely scratched the side of his own head, feeling bummed at Junior's current attitude. It couldn't be healthy for a person to easily get gloomy over academics after some mistakes made. He then noticed Fluttershy approaching the table on Junior's side.
"Oh hey what's up, Flutters?" greeted Rodan, his mood brightening back up at the sight of the pink haired beauty.
"Hello, Rodan. Um... What's wrong with Gojira?" asked Fluttershy as she directed her attention on the Transmutant that didn't acknowledge her presence.
"He thinks he might have bombed his math test. Again," answered Rodan.
"Shut up, Rodan." said Junior. Fluttershy lightly frowned at the Transmutant's state. Then an idea formed in her mind.
"Well, if you failed your test, there's always the retake," said Fluttershy.
"That's humiliating. I rather be left with a low grade rather let people know I'm retaking something I failed," said Junior. Fluttershy tapped her chin in thought. She thought that Junior wasn’t easy to reassure, but an idea came and she smiled to herself.
"You know, you're not the only one who had to retake a test. I had to retake a test a few times as well," said Fluttershy. Junior slightly raised his head and brought his eyes over on the girl.
"I sometimes got embarrassed for having to retake it. But I looked at it this way. It's a great time to review the subject and come back with a higher grade on the test," said Fluttershy. She then placed a comforting hand on Junior's shoulder.
"You can do the same. I believe in you," said Fluttershy with a soft smile. Junior was speechless at Fluttershy's words. He had no idea how to respond to her. He was mostly mocked for having low test scores and for being known to retake a test in the past, yet Fluttershy encouraged him to retake it, having not been perfect in academics herself. Although Rodan was trying to do the same, he was too carefree to take seriously, but Fluttershy had no such thing going on about her.
"You do?" asked Junior. Fluttershy nodded.
"Mmhm! If you can beat up three other Transmutants while they're transformed, then a test should be possible for you to pass," said Fluttershy. She then pointed to the other side of the cafeteria, where Sunset sat with Mosura, Flash Sentry and a few other popular kids.
"Maybe Sunset can help you review just in case so you can go into the retake with more confidence," said Fluttershy. Junior exhaled as he turned his gaze on Sunset Shimmer. He took out his phone and looked at his contacts.
"Alright, I'll ask her," said Junior as he texted Sunset. Fluttershy smiled brightly in response. Rodan looked over Junior's shoulder with wide eyes.
"Uh... Thanks, Fluttershy. That um... That helped a bit," said Junior as he avoided eye contact with Fluttershy.
"You're very welcome. Good luck," said Fluttershy as she wandered back to her table. Junior felt his shoulders gripped tightly and turned to find Rodan holding them as he gave him a forced smile.
"Goji, we're pals right? We're homies, aren't we?" asked Rodan as he rocked Junior back and forth.
"What's your problem?" asked Junior in annoyance as he pried Rodan's hands off of his shoulders.
"Dude, when the hell did you get so friendly with Fluttershy?!" demanded Rodan. Junior scoffed.
"It's not even like that. We're just in the same club and she was just being nice," said Junior. He then cupped his mouth as the fact came out.
"Wait, you're in a club, you're buddy-buddy with Fluttershy, and you have the phone numbers of Sunset, Mosura and a couple of other girls?!" asked Rodan with wide eyes. Junior sent him a glare.
"Hey! Don't peak at people's phones!" scolded Junior. Rodan gasped.
"You admit it then!" said Rodan.
"Not really," said Junior as he turned away.
"This has all happened so fast! No one thought it was possible! Surely these are the end of times! Repent! Repent!" cried Rodan as looked to the other Transmutants at their table frantically.
"You're being dramatic. And could you stop treating me as an apocalyptic sign?" deadpanned Junior.
Meanwhile at the popular kids' table, Sunset Shimmer felt her phone buzzing. She reached into her pocket and fished it out. She found Junior's address and a text message notification. Curious, Sunset opened her inbox and read the text.
"Hmm. Not a bad start for your first message," said Sunset to herself as she typed a reply.
"Hey, who are you texting?" asked Flash in curiosity.
"Classmate. He's asking me if I could help him review for a retake on the math test," answered Sunset as she typed, 'sure' with a smiley face on her reply.
"Who is it?" asked Flash.
"Does it matter?" asked Sunset with a raised brow.
"Why is it a problem to tell me?" asked Flash. Sunset rolled her eyes in response.
"It's Gojira," said Sunset. Flash scowled in response.
"Oh. So... You have his phone number," said Flash.
"Yeah, it makes things easier whenever he asks me to tutor him in math. I won't have to worry about him being a no show while waiting for him," said Sunset. She then noticed the scowl that was on Flash's face, which began to annoy her.
"What?" asked Sunset.
"Nothing," said Flash.
"That look on your face doesn't seem like nothing. Why are you upset?" asked Sunset. Flash sighed.
"Well, I just thought we were going to that party together tonight. Plus, I don't like that-"
"Babe, I'm just helping a classmate. That's all it is. We're still going to that party. Besides, why do we need a party as an excuse to hang out?" asked Sunset as she leaned against Flash. He wrapped an arm around her and lightly smiled. However, his eyes then wandered over to the Transmutant table, where he found Junior conversing with Rodan, and hardened with distrust for the Transmutant.
It was P.E. for Junior. He was jogging along the track with the rest of his classmates. Rodan picked up his speed and started to take the lead. Meanwhile, Junior was jogging in the middle of his other classmates. He started panting after his fourth lap due to being a terrible runner who didn’t know how to pace himself. As a handicap, Transmutants were expected to complete more laps than the humans, given their higher stamina. He sighed in frustration as he continued to run while the human students took a seat near the bleachers. After what felt like an eternity, the Transmutants had finished their lap. They walked over to the empty bleachers next to the human students. Junior sighed as he sat down on the far side of the bleachers and slumped his head down.
"Howdy," greeted a feminine voice. Junior kept his head down, not responding.
"Hello?" called the voice in a half offended tone.
'Whoever she's calling better answer,' thought Junior. He then felt a finger press against his cheek. He turned his head with a look of annoyance but then his eyes slightly widened. Applejack was kneeling next to him as she bore a light scowl on her face.
"Oh good. I've got your attention," said Applejack with a smile. Junior slightly pulled away.
"Yeah. What is it?" asked Junior.
"Eh. Just thought I'd drop by and greet ya," said Applejack.
"Oh yeah? Do you often grab people's attention like that for a greeting?" asked Junior with a raised eyebrow.
"Nah. That was a first. It was the only way I could think of getting you to look my way," said Applejack. Junior rolled his eyes.
"A simple tap on the shoulder would've been fine as well. I wasn't ignoring you, I just thought you were greeting someone else," said Junior. Applejack merely smiled as she walked around the Transmutant and took a seat beside him. Junior glanced at her with a raised brow.
"I wanna thank ya," said Applejack.
"What for?" asked Junior.
"For saving Fluttershy, of course. If it weren't for you, my friend wouldn't be here today," said Applejack with a smile. Junior looked away.
"Oh. Yeah, sure," said Junior as he crossed his arms over his chest. He felt a little warm inside from the thanks, since he was rarely thanked by others aside from Blaire and his mother. He had to admit that receiving appreciation was always nice.
"Oh by the way. No hard feelings about that day during dodge ball, sugar cube," said Applejack. Junior looked at her in confusion.
"Sugar cube? What the- wait, what makes you think I think I was worried about that?" asked Junior in annoyance. Applejack smirked.
"What? I never brought up how I thought you felt. I just told ya that there were no hard feelings," said Applejack. Junior was about to retort. He then turned away with a scowl and lightly flushed cheeks. Applejack lightly chuckled.
"Hey, I heard you were in the Friendship Club," said Applejack. Junior's eyes widened.
"Shh! Hey, you mind not announcing it to the whole class?!" whispered Junior with a glare. Applejack shrugged in response.
"They're gonna find out soon anyway. That club helps around with some stuff in the school. Not to mention a majority of students know who you are," said Applejack. Junior mentally cursed at the girl's argument. He hated just how true it was.
"Well, I'd like to keep a lid on it for as long as possible," said Junior as he turned away. Applejack rolled her eyes in amusement.
"That's just like a boy. You gotta put on a tough guy act," said Applejack.
"Whatever you say," said Junior as he propped his head up with a hand beneath his chin. He had to wonder why suddenly more people were slowly beginning to make conversation with him. It all seemed to start with Fluttershy. Junior shrugged it all off as just a phase that was bound to pass soon. He thought there was no point in looking deep into it. He suddenly felt a weight around his shoulders and felt his seat rock. Rodan had just sat beside him.
"G-man! What's up, homie?" greeted Rodan. Junior sighed in annoyance.
"We've already greeted each other," said Junior. Rodan grinned as he faced Applejack.
"AJ! Lookin' good!" said Rodan as he released Junior and placed on a suave tone.
"Uh... Thanks," said Applejack with a raised brow.
"So Applejack, I was wondering if you'd like to... You know, go out sometime," said Rodan. Applejack smiled in response. Rodan was squealing inside as he saw that smile.
"I'm flattered but no," said Applejack. With that, Rodan felt his heart torn in two, and then stomped into dust. Applejack nudged Junior in the shoulder.
"Well, nice talkin' to ya. I hope you get along fine with Fluttershy and the others," said Applejack as she stood up and walked away. Junior glanced at Rodan, who bore a blank expression.
"Told you she'd say no. But I think that thanks to you, she decided to leave me alone," said Junior. Rodan sighed as he looked down in disappointment.
"What a bummer," said Rodan. Junior patted him on the shoulder.
"Ah don't worry about it. There's plenty of fish in the sea, right?" asked Junior. Rodan shrugged in response.
"Yeah, but she was quite a catch," said Rodan. He then nodded. "Oh well. You're right."
Rodan then caught sight of a girl walking along the track as she stretched her arms. The Transmutant smiled as he got off the bleachers and ran after the girl.
"Hey, Octie!" called Rodan. Junior shook his head.
"Nice recovery, Rodan," said Junior.
Later that day...
Junior was present in the club room after school. He sat down beside Sunset Shimmer as she reviewed the last couple of chapters for the test. The study guide given to the class was a big help for him to remember what to go back and review for. Meanwhile, Twilight was sitting at her desk as she read through a book. Erika sat by Mosura and Fluttershy, watching them play a game of checkers. Overall, it was quiet in the club room, much to Junior's relief. But there was still the math, the bane of his existence.
"You're close, but no. You're forgetting the decimal point," said Sunset. Junior sighed heavily.
"Hey come on. There's no need to get so worked up. All you did was miss a decimal point, you almost got it," said Sunset in reassurance.
"But it's mistakes like this that cause me to fail," said Junior.
"If you keep stressing about it, you'll fail for sure. You just have to... Think more confidently," said Sunset. She then tapped his arm with the butt of her pencil.
"Like when you get into a fight. You're always confident about beating the other guy, right?" asked Sunset. Junior gave her a deadpanned stare.
"Fighting and math are not the same," said Junior. Sunset rolled her eyes.
"Well duh. But it helps if you're confident when doing either if you have something to back yourself up with. Think of it like that, but your opponent is math and the equations are its punches," said Sunset. She then tapped on the question that Junior was on.
"That decimal point you missed, it was a hit. But it wasn't that hard. All you have to do is hit it harder," said Sunset. Junior looked back at the test. He sighed.
"I gotta admit, that's a clever analogy," said Junior. Sunset smiled proudly in response.
"Why thank you," said Sunset. The door was knocked on, prompting everyone's head to turn.
"It's open!" called Twilight. The door opened, revealing a female student with grey hair.
"Excuse me, but your club helps with some stuff in school right?" asked the student. Twilight nodded in response.
"Correct! We also help with friendship problems, make friends and-"
"Yeah, yeah. That's great. Anyway, I need some help with something. The Fall Formal will be rolling around soon and we don't seem to have enough people to help set things up. Could your group pitch into help say next Thursday?" asked the student.
"Fall formal? Gross," muttered Junior under his breath. Sunset caught this and raised a brow at him.
"I think we can help with that. What do you say ladies? Uh... And gentleman," said Twilight with a sheepish smile. The girls all gave verbal approvals while Junior crossed his arms in his seat.
"Whatever," said Junior.
"Cool! See you guys soon!" said the student as she began to leave. She then looked back in confusion at the closed door to the clubroom.
"Since when was that guy part of that club?" asked the student.
Back in the club room back in the club room junior went back to reviewing for his potential retake. Sunset merely stared at him.
"I can feel you staring at me. What is it?" asked Junior.
"Well it's just that... Do you have something against school dances?" asked Sunset. This question drew the attention of the other girls. All eyes were on Junior, much to his annoyance.
"Well, yeah," said Junior.
"Why?" asked Erika. Junior turned to face her.
"I'm sorry?" asked Junior. Erika shrunk back nervously.
"I-I asked why," answered Erika. Junior sighed as he went back to his study guide.
"I don't know. I just find them pointless and stupid. Not to mention expensive for a goddamn ticket to get into a school event that's full of kids that later have these stupid contests of popular kids being crowned," said Junior.
"Well when you put it like that..." Erika rubbed her arm with a light frown. Mosura shook her head.
"Don't mind him, Erika. These dances aren't in everyone's taste. Besides, Goji might be upset about it because he can't dance," said Mosura in a teasing tone.
"While it's true that I can't dance, that's not my reason. I just hate crowds," said Junior. Twilight looked at him in curiosity.
"Has anyone ever asked you to one of these dances?" asked Twilight.
"Define, 'anyone'," said Junior. Fluttershy frowned in disappointment.
"That's too bad. You're missing out," said Fluttershy. Junior snorted in response.
"On what? It's not like I can socialize with everyone there. Who cares?" responded Junior.
"A lot of students care about going to the formal, actually," interjected Sunset.
"Then by all means, let them flock to the Fall formal. I've got better things to do than participate in that nonsense," said Junior. The girls all sighed in unison. Junior scowled.
"The hell is with the collective sigh?" asked Junior in annoyance.
The evening was present. Mosura bore a helmet over her head as she held Battra's waist tightly. The two rode on a black motorcycle that bore gold streaks. The vehicle roared as it drove through the neighborhood. Soon, the siblings found themselves arriving at a two story house. Lights shone brightly out of the window and several cars parked along the sidewalks. A few teenagers talked outside as they remained on the porch. Battra sighed as he removed his helmet, allowing the cool air to make contact with his face.
"Remember, don't embarrass me. I want you to behave," said Mosura as she removed her helmet. Battra nodded to her.
"I'll try. But if someone is bothering you, let me know," said Battra. Mosura nodded to him with a smile. The two made their way over to the house, where Mosura was greeted by students who recognized her. The two made their way inside and found the living room to be filled with over a dozen other students that mingled with each other as they bore soft drinks and snacks. From the sofa in the room, Sunset smiled brightly as she shot out of her seat and waved.
"Mosura! What's up?" greeted Sunset as she made her way to the Transmutant and met her with a hug.
"I'm feeling good. Hope you all don't mind that I brought my big brother with me," said Mosura she gestured to Battra.
"Not at all! It's good to see you again, Battra," said Sunset as she brought her hand forward. The male Transmutant greeted her with a small smile as he held his hand forward to shake Sunset's.
"Nice to see you as well," said Battra. Mosura searched the room in curiosity.
"Say, where's Flash?" asked Mosura.
"He just went to the bathroom. Oh! I also brought Erika along. But I haven't seen her in a couple of minutes," said Sunset. Her face turned to worry. "I'll be back. I should go check on her,"
Sunset briskly left the living room. Battra looked around the house, finding students to be laughing as they conversed. Music played from the stereo and filled up most of the bottom floor of the house.
"Wow. There's a lot of people here. Say, whose house is this anyway?" asked Battra.
"It's Vinyl Scratch's," answered Mosura as she pointed to the edge of the large living room to where a girl bearing shades and headphones stood behind a stereo set. She nodded her head to the beat of the music.
"Ah," responded Battra with a nod. He noticed a couple of girls giving him flirty smiles from the staircase. Battra greeted them with a small wave as he bore an embarrassed smile. He cleared his throat as he turned to Mosura.
"I'm gonna go get something to drink. You want anything?" asked Battra.
"I can go for some water," said Mosura. Battra nodded to her as he left the living room and made his way into the kitchen. Inside were a few other teens that were conversing as they had chips with dip. The Transmutant muttered to himself as he searched for any cases of water bottles.
"Yo Battra!" greeted a male voice. Battra grimaced as he recognized the voice. He turned and found Flash Sentry emerging from a small group of other boys. The Transmutant placed on a false smile.
"Flash Sentry. Nice to see you," said Battra.
"You too. So, I guess that means your sister is here? Sunset will be thrilled to know that she made it," said Flash.
"Yeah we actually ran into her a minute ago," said Battra as he managed to find the case of water.
"Hey, why don't you chill out with us for a minute?" suggested Flash.
'Shit. I'm treading into deep water right now. The cool kids are its sharks,' thought Battra in annoyance.
"Uh actually, I have to-"
"Come on, just for a minute. Let the girls have a moment to talk," said Flash. Battra sighed.
"Sure," said Battra in defeat. He followed Flash to where a few other students were.
"Hey, Battra!" greeted the other students.
"Hey," greeted the Transmutant.
"So, how's it going? You been good?" asked another student.
"Sure. I've been great," said Battra. He felt great at least twenty seconds ago.
"Yo, you seen any girls you like? I think I can introduce you to some," said Flash. Battra mentally groaned. He feared that this boy would try to pair him up with an airhead or a snob.
"Like, what about Lyra?" asked Flash. Battra turned his head and found the girl standing next to Bon Bon, conversing.
"No, she's gay. Or bisexual at least," said Battra.
"How do you know?" asked another male student.
"You can tell if you see how she looks at Bon Bon. She's got those bedroom eyes on her. The two seem awfully close together," said Battra as he began to analyze the two.
"Huh. I always thought they were just friends," said Flash as he scratched his head.
"It's obvious that the two are into each other," said Battra.
"What about Octavia?" asked Flash.
"No," said Battra.
"Erika?" asked Flash.
"Shiragami? No. She's nice, but... I'm actually not looking for a relationship guys," said Battra with a hint of annoyance in his tone.
"It's all good, man," said another male student.
"Hey, did you guys hear about last night? That Night Angel guy took out some guys at that old produce store," said a female student as she held her phone out. The screen displayed an article that talked about the previous night which Battra was more than familiar with.
"Yeah, that's crazy how he took out those guys on his own," said a male student.
"Right? It kinda freaks me out. The article talks about how a van was crushed and that these guys had all kinds of guns," said another student in the group. Battra mentally sighed as he found himself stuck in a conversation about himself.
"He's definitely a Transmutant. They say this guy has the strength of at least ten men despite how scrawny he looks," said another student. Battra raised a brow at this and looked himself over.
'I am not scrawny,' thought Battra. Flash scoffed.
"We seriously don't need these freaks running around with a mask. It's bad enough they go to school with us," said Flash. Battra's brow twitched.
"Yeah, how don't we know that this guy is actually one of those Revolutionaries and is just trying to get on people's good side?" asked another student.
"He probably might even start recruiting Transmutants," said another student. Battra sighed in annoyance, drawing the attention of everyone in the group.
"Do you realize how ignorant this sounds? You're jumping to radical conclusions about this vigilante based on your prejudice towards Transmutants," deadpanned Battra. A few of the students were taken aback by this.
"I read the article. It mentioned how a street gang was associated with the terrorist organization, The Purists. The police found military grade weapons and a ton of ammunition to go with it," said Battra.
"Hey, the Purists are not terrorists. They're heroes," said Flash with a glare. Battra smirked.
"Heroes? That's funny. You know, some Transmutants find the Revolutionaries to be heroes, but they're far from that. Likewise, anyone who tries to call The Purists heroes is hypocritical," said Battra.
"Whenever a Revolutionary kills a large number of people, there is an uproar. But when a Purist kills even one Transmutant, there is praise or silence," said Battra with a hard stare.
"Most people would feel safer with the Purists around," argued Flash. Battra shrugged.
"Maybe. I guess you can say that it's a mindset I have to not support groups that have ideals of racial superiority. I mean, look at the assholes that were alive throughout history who had these ideals," said Battra. He then sighed.
"Looks like history is going to be repeating itself soon," said Battra. Flash gave him a hard stare.
"You would feel the same way if you had lost someone close to you to Transmutants," said Flash. Battra was about to retort but was interrupted.
"Yo!" greeted a feminine voice. Battra and Flash tore their attention away from each other and found Vinyl standing before them with a grin on her face.
"Battra Yasu and Flash Sentry chillin' at my house! Ha! I love it! I love bringing guys along together for a party," said Vinyl as she held her fist out to Flash.
"Hey, Vinyl," greeted Flash with a fist bump.
"Mosu's big bro! Hello," greeted Vinyl as she held a fist out to Battra but noticed he had his hand out for a handshake instead. She merely smirked as she opened her fist and took his hand.
"So proper. I think Octy would love ya," said Vinyl as she shook his hand.
"Ow! Wow, you got yourself a nice grip. You should definitely not pick a fight with this guy!" said Vinyl with a chuckle as she nudged the Transmutant's shoulder.
"Nice to properly make your acquaintance," said Battra. He then cleared his throat as he stepped back.
"It's been nice 'chillin', but I have to get my sister her drink," said Battra as he made his way back to where the drinks were and took a water bottle. Flash merely scowled at the Transmutant in response. He sighed as he turned back to his group.
Meanwhile, Battra made his way over to the living room. He found Mosura sitting down on the sofa with a scowl on her face as another boy held out a beer can to her. Erika sat by worriedly while Sunset tried to tell him off. Battra merely hardened his eyes as the boy harassed his little sister.
"I told you, I don't want any. I don't even drink!" said Mosura in annoyance.
"Yeah, leave her alone! You're trying to hard now," said Sunset.
"Aw come on, baby girl. Just a sip?" asked the boy. He suddenly felt a tight grip on his shoulder. He turned with an annoyed look but lost it as he found Battra's piercing red eyes glaring at him.
"When a girl tells you 'no', it's best to listen," said Battra in a low tone. The boy gave a nervous laugh as he got off of the sofa and stepped away.
"Whatever you say, man!" said the boy as he left the room. Battra shook his head in response. He took a seat beside Mosura and gave her the water bottle.
"Thanks big bro," said Mosura with a smile.
"Yeah, he was starting to get on my nerves as well," said Sunset. Erika sighed with a look of envy.
"You're lucky to have a brother looking out for you. It makes me jealous," said Erika.
"If you want, you can call me big brother too," said Battra in a joking tone. Erika laughed in response. The three sat on the sofa together as they conversed with each other on this night.
Fluttershy sat down on her bed in a shirt and pajama pants. Rarity sat behind her wearing silk pajamas as she braided Fluttershy's long hair. Meanwhile, Twilight was lying on her belly as she read a book and Pinkie lied against her back. Applejack and Rainbow Dash sat down with game controllers in their hands. The two were using a console that was brought over by Rainbow and were playing a game that involved gritty looking characters fighting in an Eastern tournament. Rainbow's character was a ninja in black and yellow that had defeated Applejack's character, a man with a cybernetic eye.
"Finish him!" said a deep voice from the game as text appeared on screen. The yellow ninja removed his mask, revealing a flaming skull and spewed fire onto his opponent. Fluttershy felt her stomach turn as the game showed the victim burnt to a crisp.
"Fatality!" said the deep voice.
"Booya!" said Rainbow in triumph.
"Ugh. Honestly, how can you two play something this graphic?" asked Rarity with a grimace.
"Because it's fun. Duh," said Rainbow.
"Another round?" asked Applejack.
"You bet!" said Rainbow. As the two went back to their game, Twilight turned her head to Rarity.
"Hey, are you sure that our dresses won't be too much trouble. I feel bad having you use your materials for us when you could be using them to apply for a job at that place in town," said Twilight.
"Oh don't worry about it! Besides, those dresses will serve as a presentation after the formal," said Rarity with a smile as she finished braiding Fluttershy's hair.
Fluttershy smiled as she looked at her hair through a mirror.
"Thank you, it looks gorgeous," said Fluttershy. Rarity nodded to her in response. Pinkie hummed as she looked out the window towards the evening sky.
"Looks like it's going to rain pretty soon," said Pinkie. A flash of lightning shone in her eyes and the muffled sound of thunder came through the walls. The girls all jumped at this with startled expressions.
"Never mind," said Pinkie in a small voice.
Meanwhile outside, Junior stood at the driveway of his home in silence. He raised his head up to the sky as the thunder came. He felt droplets of water beginning to rain down on his face. He gave a heavy sigh as he pulled his hood over his head.
"I can't believe I forgot my fucking house key," said Junior. It was just over two hours ago when he had first come home to realize that he had left his key to the house inside. He was so worked up about the test in the morning that he had forgotten about it. Now he was stuck outside in the rain as his mother was going to be returning home late. He sighed at his misfortune as the rain water picked up speed, hitting him like pebbles. He turned to his left where Fluttershy's home was, finding it to be lit.
"I can't ask her to let me stay with her until then," said Junior. He lowered his head and allowed the rain water to drench his sweater. As thunder and lightning struck, he remained motionless, unphased by the forces of nature.
Meanwhile back in Fluttershy's house, the girls all sat down as they watched a movie. It was a romantic comedy, much to the dismay of Rainbow Dash. Fluttershy gasped as she remembered something.
"I forgot to bring the mail inside!" cried Fluttershy. She shot out of her bed and rushed to her closet and slipped on her boots.
"I can go out and get it for ya," said Applejack.
"No, I got it," said Fluttershy as she grabbed a green sealed umbrella. She rushed out of her bedroom out to the living room and stepped outside of the house, only to flinch as she felt the cold breeze and a few droplets of water on her cheeks. She stepped further outside and made her way over to the mailbox that sat on the edge of the lawn of her home, but stopped as she spotted a lone figure in her peripheral vision. With her heart racing, she quickly turned to see who it was. She then relaxed as she saw that it was Junior. The Transmutant kept his head lowered as he stood in the rain. He slowly looked up at the night sky, desiring to see the stars that were hidden by the storm clouds above. He sighed in disappointment as he lowered his head. Fluttershy deeply frowned at the sight and made her way over to Junior's porch until she stood at his side. She brought her umbrella over him as well, shielding him from the rain. Junior slowly raised his head and his eyes widened in surprise. Fluttershy greeted him with a warm smile.
"What are you doing out here in the rain?" asked Fluttershy. Junior looked away.
"I uh... I forgot my key in the house. I've been outside for a couple hours," said Junior.
"That's awful. When is your mom coming home?" asked Fluttershy.
"Like ten or eleven," answered Junior. Fluttershy frowned. She couldn't leave Junior outside in this weather. She reached for his hand and held it firmly, making Junior's cheeks flush.
"Come inside. You can stay at my house until then," said Fluttershy with a soft smile. Junior stared into her kind eyes for a second. He looked down at the ground.
"I... Thank you," said Junior. Fluttershy nodded to him as she led him to the mailbox where she was able to collect a few envelops. The two made their way inside of the warm house. Junior sighed as he removed his damp sweater.
"Are you hungry? We have plenty of pizza left," said Fluttershy as she gestured to the kitchen. Junior reluctantly nodded to her. Although he was hungry, he didn't feel right about accepting the offers made to him. He made his way to the kitchen and grabbed a paper plate. With it, he grabbed two slices of pizza and sat down at the table.
"I'll take your sweater and put it in the dryer for you," said Fluttershy.
"Thanks," said Junior. Fluttershy lightly smiled as Junior began to eat. As she was about to leave, Junior called out to her.
"Um... Your hair is braided. It... It looks nice," said Junior in embarrassment. It was no easy task to directly compliment a pretty girl. He'd probably die if he ever complimented Principle Luna. But it was the least that he could do since she was offering him her hospitality.
"Oh. T-Thank you," said Fluttershy with a bashful smile. She made her way into the laundry room, unaware that Rainbow was walking passed her with her knee high rainbow socks grazing the carpet floor.
"I can go for another slice of-" Rainbow trailed off as she entered the kitchen and her eyes widened as she found Junior at the table. Junior widened his eyes as well when he noticed the girl and stopped eating. The two were locked in a staring contest until Rainbow hardened her eyes while Junior slumped his shoulders.
"Um... Good evening?" Junior suddenly found himself tackled to the ground and out of his seat.
"You big jerk!" shouted Rainbow as she pulled on Junior's cheeks.
"Ow! Could you not?!" Junior pressed his hands against Rainbow's shoulders as he attempted to get her off of himself. He stood up but felt Rainbow still latched onto him.
"Get off!" said Junior in annoyance as he stumbled out of the kitchen.
"Not until you apologize!" said Rainbow.
"For what?!" asked Junior.
"Everything!" shouted Rainbow. The two had ended up in the living room, with Rainbow pinning Junior down on the sofa. Junior could have easily overpowered the girl, but then he may hurt her unintentionally. From the hall rushed in Fluttershy with the rest of the Main Six.
"What in tarnation is all this racket?!" asked Applejack. Twilight's eyes widened in surprise.
"Gojira?" called Twilight. Pinkie grinned while Rarity looked on nervously.
"Now that AJ and Pinkie are here, apologize!" ordered Rainbow as she grabbed Junior by his nose.
"Never!" said Junior. He tried to press his hand against Rainbow's shoulder but missed. He was forced to readjust his right hand and brought back but ended up pressing against her chest. As his palm pressed against her, Rainbow gasped as her cheeks flushed and a moan escaped her mouth. Junior's eyes widened in horror while Fluttershy cupped her hands over her mouth and the rest of the girls stared in shock. Rainbow's eyes widened as she started trembling while the Transmutant pulled his hand away.
"I-I Didn't- I mean-" Junior gulped as Rainbow gave him a look of fury as she clenched her fist.
"You pervert!!" screamed Rainbow as she punched Junior in the jaw. The Transmutant's head was knocked to the side and stung for just a few seconds. Rainbow groaned as she clutched her aching fist. She growled as she glared at Junior.
"I'm gonna kill you!" cried Rainbow as she lunged at Junior but was caught by Applejack, who held her back.
"Settle down, RD!" said Applejack.
"I'm sorry! I swear I didn't mean to-" Junior was filled with panic. He unintentionally groped a girl that was now after his head, right in front of five other girls that he attended school with. He imagined his mother looking at him in disapproval.
"This wouldn't have happened if you apologized in the first place you jerk!" shouted Rainbow. Twilight stepped in front of the two.
"Let's settle down, everybody. It was an accident. But Rainbow, you didn't have to attack him," said Twilight in disapproval.
"Why do you assume I started it?!" demanded Rainbow.
"Because you've been after him for days!" said Applejack. Junior stood up to his feet with a pant. He realized that he couldn't have been locked out of his own home at a worst time.
"I didn't know you lived in the same neighborhood," said Twilight in surprise.
"He lives next door. He's going to be staying over for a while until his mom gets home to unlock the door," said Fluttershy.
"You should really keep a house key on you," said Rarity. Junior scowled.
"I do but I forgot it inside this morning," responded Junior. He suddenly felt Pinkie tugging on his arm.
"Goji, you're going to have a lot of fun while you're here! You just crashed our slumber party!" said Pinkie with a grin. Junior's eye twitched in response. He looked to Fluttershy with a smile.
"I appreciate you taking me in, but I think I'll take my chances in the rain," said Junior as he began to make his way to the door. Pinkie was being dragged along with him.
"Wait! Gojira, you don't have to go!" cried Fluttershy as she followed the Transmutant.
"Yeah, you'll catch a cold!" said Twilight as she followed after Junior as well.
"I'm not going to get a cold! I have a super immune sys-" as Junior reached the door and opened it, the night flashed from a lightning strike. Thunder roared, startling everyone except for Junior. The wind blew against his face with water droplets and he found himself wrapped into a tight hug by Pinkie, Fluttershy and Twilight. The three of them gave screams from the thunder.
"You gotta be kidding," said Junior.
"Um... Please stay," said Fluttershy with an embarrassed smile. Junior sighed in exasperation.
"Fine. Just let go," said Junior as he closed the door. Twilight and Fluttershy released the Transmutant with flushing faces. Meanwhile, Pinkie held onto his arm.
"That means you too, Pinkie Pie," deadpanned Junior. Pinkie moaned in disappointment as she released Junior.
"You calmed down?" asked Applejack in annoyance as she held Rainbow. The rainbow haired girl scowled.
"Yes," said Rainbow. Applejack released her, while Rainbow stood with a scowl.
"For the record, I would've kicked your ass if AJ hadn't stopped me," said Rainbow as she glared at Junior.
"Sure you would have," said Junior in an unimpressed tone. An awkward silence filled the living room. Fluttershy glanced at her friends and the Transmutant in worry. She wondered how she could break the tension.
"Um... Gojira, I don't think you properly met Rarity," said Fluttershy. She brought the Transmutant closer to the other girl with a smile.
"Rarity, this is Gojira," said Fluttershy.
"Uh... Charmed, I guess," said Rarity with an unsure expression.
"Hey," greeted Junior. He then walked away into the kitchen and sat back down at the table.
"Feel free to carry on with your slumber party. Don't mind me," said Junior as he went back to eating. Pinkie appeared right beside him with a smile.
"Come watch some movies with us!" said Pinkie.
"Why?" asked Junior in annoyance.
"Duh! So you can hang out with us!" said Pinkie with a giggle.
"Yeah, come on! It's not like you have anything better to do anyway," said Twilight. Junior looked to Fluttershy with a deadpanned stare.
"Would your mother approve of you having a boy in your room? I mean, I assume she wouldn't be thrilled if one was in your house while she's not around as well," said Junior.
"She's working late as well. But I'm sure she wouldn't mind. I trust you," said Fluttershy with a smile. Rainbow scoffed.
"I don't," said Rainbow as she crossed her arms over her chest as she scowled. Her cheeks were flushing out. Junior sighed.
"It was an accident! I didn't mean to touch you there!" said Junior in annoyance.
"Look, let's all just forgive and forget. No use in fighting over it," said Applejack.
"But he has a point. It is rather uncouth for a boy to be in one room with a girl," said Rarity as she eyed Junior.
"Except that it's one boy and six other gals. I think we'll be fine," said Applejack. She the nudged Junior in the shoulder.
"Come on, partner. You'll miss out on the fun," said Applejack. Junior was about to argue but found himself being pushed out of his seat by Pinkie. She and Twilight dragged him off into Fluttershy's bedroom despite his protests. Rainbow groaned as she lowered her head and Rarity rubbed her shoulders in pity.
"You'll get through this, darling," said Rarity as she walked her to the bedroom with Applejack trailing behind.
Junior found himself sitting on the floor next to the bed. Beside him were Applejack, who lied on her belly and Fluttershy, who sat on his right. Pinkie, Twilight and Rarity lied on the bed in a row. Pinkie was smiling to herself as she ran her hand through Junior's spiky hair, much to his dismay. Rainbow sat beside the bed as she used her cellphone, hoping to kill time until the film ended.
"Your hair is nice. I love how it tingles," said Pinkie with a giggle. Junior sighed heavily. His eyes wandered around the room, finding a couple of cute posters of lion cubs and rabbits. He found the neatness of the room to have been slightly ruined with the blankets and pillows that lied on the ground for the girls. It was going to be a crowded sleeping space for the girls. Junior's eyes were suddenly attracted to motion. They locked onto Applejack's leg as it raised itself up and down. Her toes scrunched every time she raised her leg. Junior's heart raced as he stared at the girl's soft feet and her luscious legs, looking up to her thighs. He tore his eyes away before he found himself staring at her ass.
'Damn these hormones!' thought Junior. His cheeks were hot with shame for staring at his classmate. It didn't help that she was wearing short bottoms that exposed most of her leg. He was happy that he at least had self-control over himself.
"Hey Goji," called Pinkie.
"Uh... Yeah?" asked Junior, being knocked out of his thoughts.
"What kind of girls do you like?" asked Pinkie in curiosity. Junior cleared his throat as he pulled his head away, much to Pinkie's disappointment as she released his hair.
"That's pretty up in the air, you know?" responded Junior. He hated how he was suddenly forced into this situation.
"I'm actually curious to know too," said Twilight with a smile.
"Come on. Lay off the guy. Ya'll just embarrassing him," said Applejack. Junior sighed in relief.
'Thanks hot-legs', thought Junior.
"You simply can’t have a slumber party without conversations like this! Give us the scoop, darling!" said Rarity with a look of interest.
"Are you all serious right now?" asked Junior in annoyance.
"I couldn't care less," said Rainbow.
"Tell us! Tell us! Tell us!" chanted Pinkie, Rarity and Twilight. Fluttershy glanced at her friends in disapproval. Though she had to admit, she was curious to know what sort of girls a guy like him would be attracted to.
"Alright! Alright just be quiet!" said Junior. The girls all went silent as they listened to Junior with eager expressions, excluding Applejack and Rainbow Dash. The Transmutant gave a heavy sigh.
"I... I like..." Junior scoffed as he turned away from the girls.
"I change my mind!" said Junior with a scowl. The girls moaned in disappointment. Applejack smirked as she locked her eyes on the Transmutant. She raised her legs and locked them both around Junior's neck. He yelped as he was forced on the ground with the girl's legs holding him down on the ground. The Transmutant flushed as he felt her soft tan skin against his own.
"Eh. I'm starting to get interested myself," said Applejack. Junior sent her a glare as he tried to pry her legs away but felt them held down on the ground. His eyes widened as he found Rarity and Twilight holding them down with devious smiles. He then felt his legs being restrained by Fluttershy.
"So sorry, so sorry, so sorry!" said Fluttershy with a nervous expression. Junior was shocked at how this kind girl was suddenly turning against him. Pinkie Pie suddenly sat down on him above his waist with a large smile on her face. Junior gulped nervously.
"Last chance, Goji," said Pinkie.
"Nope!" said Junior with a hard stare.
"You forced me to do this!" cried Pinkie. She dove her hands onto the Transmutant's belly and mercilessly tickled him. Junior laughed hysterically as her fingers tickled his sides and stomach. He slightly convulsed with laughter but was held down by the rest of the girls, who laughed at his state. Rainbow watched in amusement.
"Stop! Stop, I'll tell you!" cried Junior in between laughs. Pinkie removed her hands and got off of Junior to sit beside him. The rest of the girls released him as well and allowed the Transmutant to catch his breath. Junior sighed in relief.
"OK. I like... Ugh. I guess I like... Nice girls," said Junior as he looked away. "You know, ones that are friendly and kind,"
"Oh, so you mean a girl like Mosura?" asked Rarity. Rainbow laughed.
"Dude, she's way out of your league!" said Rainbow. Junior looked at her in annoyance while Applejack and Twilight looked at her in disapproval.
"I never said anything about her. I was just saying what I found attractive in girls," said Junior.
"I never would've guessed. I thought you would be into those edgy kind of girls. Or some sort of punk style girl," said Pinkie.
"If she has that personality trait and isn't a total bitch, I might like her," said Junior.
"Well, do you have a crush on someone at school?" asked Pinkie. Junior scowled while the other girls looked on with curious stares. He then smirked.
"Sorry girls, but I'm keeping that secret to myself," said Junior as he stood up to his feet and began to walk away. Pinkie looked on in disappointment while Fluttershy watched him leave in curiosity.
"You think we went too far with him?" asked Twilight in worry.
"If we did, he doesn't seem mad about it," said Applejack with a shrug.
Meanwhile back in the living room, Junior was sitting down on the sofa. He felt his neck as he recalled the softness of Applejack's legs against his own skin. He flushed furiously as he moaned with his head slumped.
"I just want to go home and sleep," said Junior. He then heard footsteps approaching. He turned and found Fluttershy taking a seat beside him.
"Hey... I-I'm sorry about that back there. I was actually curious myself," said Fluttershy. Junior sighed.
"Why do people suddenly care about what kind of girl I like and who I have a crush on? At least some of your friends didn't want anything to do with me," said Junior in annoyance.
"Well... Maybe they just want to get to know you better," said Fluttershy. Junior glanced at her and found her warm smile. He looked away with a small sigh. The sound of thunder filled the air, startling the girl out of her wits. She yelped as she dove for Junior's arm and buried her face into his shoulder.
"Relax. It's just a little thunder," said Junior in embarrassment. Fluttershy tightened her hold on the Transmutant as she whimpered. Junior lightly smiled as he stroked her hair.
"It's alright. I guess some are more afraid of thunder and lightning than others," said Junior. Fluttershy nodded as she kept her head hidden.