//------------------------------//
// Chapter 56: Darkness Returns 
// Story: The Arrogance of Man 
// by Johng117 
//------------------------------//

It was the afternoon on this next day. An uneasy silence filled the living room of the Transmutant Four's lair. Junior sat on the sofa. With him were the rest of the Transmutant Four, the Main six, and the Sirens. They all stared at the Transmutant worriedly. Twilight nearly looked distraught while Junior sighed heavily as he lowered his head.
"By now, I think it's safe to assume that you all read the news about what happened in Canterlot. Especially one particular detail that's pretty popular," said Junior.
"What happened? Why would you do something like that?" asked Twilight.
"Twilight, I swear to you, what happened was an accident! I...I don't know what happened," said Junior as he lowered his head.
"Dude, how can you not know what happened?! The paper said you attacked the Princesses!" said Rainbow Dash as she held up yesterday's paper and held it to Junior's face. The Transmutant glared at the image in hate. He snatched the paper from her and tore it up, causing the girls to flinch. He sent Rainbow a glare.
"You can talk to me about what happened, but don't ever show me that shit again!" said Junior in a harsh tone. Rainbow recoiled at his tone.
"Hey-hey! Relax!" said Rainbow with a nervous expression. Rodan stepped by Junior as he sent him a glare.
"You don't have to yell at her," said Rodan in disapproval. Junior sighed as he rubbed his temples.
"You're right. Rainbow, I'm sorry that I snapped at you. I just can't stand to look at that picture anymore," said Junior in a soft tone. Rainbow relaxed as she looked at him worriedly.
"Well, let's talk about it. Why did you do it?" asked Rainbow.
"Yeah, you'd never hurt the princesses! Especially Princess Celestia!" said Pinkie.
"I know, I know. There was a Revolutionary attack going on in Canterlot. Half of the rebels and Shining Armor were in Hallows Shade repelling a Changeling attack that happened a few hours before. Caesar and I had gotten back from training and found ourselves caught in the middle of a war zone," said Junior as he rubbed his head. His friends gave him their full attention, analyzing the story.
"So, we got caught up fighting this MONARCH Transmutant named Ghidorah. Then Destoroyah came in. Next thing I knew, I was standing in the middle of the street with some destruction left behind and the Princesses hurt," said Junior.
"You don't remember attacking them?" asked Rarity in confusion.
"No. Well, I did when I came to. But it was fragmented memories. I...I don't remember when I lost control of myself," said Junior. The girls looked at each other in worry and then back to Junior. Mosura looked down in thought.
'It must be the spirit essence. Amber did say that he would be more prone to aggression if angered,' thought Mosura. She then looked to Junior.
"Goji, were you angry when this was happening?" asked Mosura. Junior glanced at her.
"I...well, I guess you can say that," said Junior. Fluttershy looked at him worriedly.
"What were you angry about? It may have been why you were lashing out at the princesses," said Fluttershy. Adagio crossed her arms as she stood with her fellow Sirens.
"That could be it. It wouldn't be the first time," said Adagio as she focused her eyes on Junior. The Transmutant looked down in shame while Mosura cleared her throat as she looked to the ceiling.
"Wait...you've seen him blow up like that before?" asked Rainbow.
"You...can say that," said Adagio as she looked away. Twilight focused her attention on Junior.
"Gojira?" called Twilight.
"I rather not discuss it," said Junior. Twilight sighed in response as she crossed her arms with a look of annoyance. Junior then focused his attention on the Sirens.
"I actually wasn't expecting you three to be here," said Junior. Adagio smirked.
"What? Didn't you miss me?" asked Adagio as she placed a hand on her hip. Junior lightly smiled.
"Of course. I just wish our reunion wasn't at a time like this," said Junior.
"Eh. I've had worse," said Adagio.
"I won't bother asking then," said Junior. Mosura tapped Junior's head, grabbing his attention.
"OK, so we've established what happened. You've lost control and ended up attacking the princesses. The MONARCH soldiers that were locked up got away during the chaos and you've have had only fragments of yourself attacking the princesses," said Mosura. Junior nodded in response.
"That's correct," said Junior. Mosura sighed as she brushed the strands of her hair away from her eye.
"OK. Well, at least we all know that you haven't turned your back on us. That'd hurt more," said Mosura with a light frown.
"So, what about him losing it? What are we gonna do about that?" asked Applejack.
"He can take a vacation!" said Sonata as she raised her hand up. Fluttershy hummed in thought.
"That may not be a bad idea. It'll give Goji some space and a chance to relax. We can even take another counseling session for anger management!" said Fluttershy with a bright smile. Rainbow sighed in annoyance.
"Just don't make me put on a school girl's uniform again," said Rainbow.
"Babe, you look good in it," said Rodan with a flirty smile. Rainbow crossed her arms as she looked away with a flush and scowl.
"Oh! Maybe a trip to the spa will help work off some of that stress!" suggested Rarity.
"A party!" said Pinkie as she stuck a party blower in Junior's mouth. He scowled in response as he blew through it, causing the rolled up paper to extend out as a honk came from it. Junior then opened his mouth and allowed it to fall onto his lap.
"A nap can do him so good," said Rodan.
"I'm leaning more to the vacation idea," said Angirasu with a small smile.
"Me too," said Twilight with a nod. She then gasped.
"Oh! Since Hearth's Warming is coming up in a few weeks, we can have another party like last year!" said Twilight.
"How about a vacation somewhere else like Manehattan or Canterlot where we can go to the spa with him and celebrate Hearth's Warming Eve with a party after Goji's counseling session?" suggested Pinkie with a large grin. Everyone in the room began to give verbal agreements as they gave off suggestions on what to do for their friend. Junior sighed heavily as he shook his head.
"Guys! Guys, be quiet for a second!" said Junior. Everyone went silent as they looked at Junior in confusion.
"Look, I appreciate what you are all doing. But honestly, I can't take a vacation. Especially to somewhere like Manehattan or Canterlot," said Junior.
"Why not?" asked Rarity.
"One, I pissed off everybody in Canterlot after attacking the princesses. Two, a vacation somewhere isn't going to help me since I have something that I have to do," said Junior.
"What about the spa trip?" asked Twilight.
"Or the party?!" asked Pinkie with a frown.
"Look, I just...I can't leave the Everfree," said Junior. Rodan chuckled.
"Sure you can! Just get your ass up and walk on out of here and into Ponyville!" said Rodan.
"Yeah, but I actually don't want to," said Junior as he stood up to his feet and walked over to the kitchen. He reached into the cupboard and pulled out a glass cup, which he filled up with water.
"Wha...What do you mean?" asked Adagio. Junior turned to face the Transmutants.
"Mosu, how were things in Ponyville after news hit?" asked Junior.
"Uh...people that already didn't trust us got angry. Some people that still trusted us questioned us about why you would attack the Princesses and if we had anything to do with it," said Mosura. Junior pointed to Mosura as he looked towards Adagio.
"There you go. Let's face it guys, I messed up. I blew it," said Junior as he took a sip of his water.
"Celestia worked hard to help people to understand us so that we can live as citizens again and I ruined it. Protesters were outside of the castle claiming that I was too dangerous and that I was the worst out of all of the Transmutants," said Junior. Everyone looked at him with a frown as Junior kept a calm expression. In truth, he was hurt as he retold the events.
"So, I think there's only one way to save the Transmutants from being ostracized again," said Junior as he chugged down his water.
"What might that be?" asked Applejack in a curious tone.
"I have to disappear," said Junior. Everyone in the room looked at him in shock.
"What?!" they exclaimed. Junior flinched at the high volume and the assault of a dozen voices.
"What do you mean by that?!" demanded Mosura.
"You're not planning on running away again, are you?!" demanded Twilight as she made her way over to Junior with a glare.
"Of course not! I just mean that...maybe I should stay in the Everfree. I should never show my face in town or any town again," said Junior.
"Why would you do that?" asked Rarity with a frown. Junior sighed.
"Because...I think if people consider me the worst, then Mosu and the others may have a chance at getting back on more people's good side," said Junior. He then turned to face his fellow Transmutants.
"Guys, people have always warmed up to you the most. I'm the one who did something wrong, not you. If I keep showing up into town with you guys, it may end up hurting you," said Junior.
"No, Goji. Come on, man," said Rodan with a frown.
"Look, I can't keep showing up if it's going to cost people's trust in you! They need you guys protect them, not me," said Junior.
"Gojira, we're a team! We need you!" said Angirasu. Junior shook his head.
"No, you don't. You guys are the greatest fighters that I've ever met. You were good without me, and you can be like that again," said Junior. Mosura sent him a glare.
"So, you're going to stop helping humans? You're just going to leave us to do all the work because you're afraid?" demanded Mosura.
"Yeah, that's not like you!" said Rainbow.
"You're tougher than that Goji!" said Pinkie with a smile. His friends began to give verbal agreements.  Junior sighed in frustration.
"Look! I admit it alright?! I don't want to help humans anymore! It's not because I hate them or I'm becoming lazy. It's just that I don’t know if I can make up for what I did and change people's minds about me!" said Junior.
"They have to be the ones to change! You can't do it for them," argued Twilight.
"Not everyone changes, Twilight. That’s why I can't keep doing this. I'm only going to make things worse," said Junior.
"Sugarcube, you don't really think that do you?" asked Applejack with a frown. Junior gave her a solemn expression.
"You want to look me in the eye and tell me that I'm lying?" asked Junior. Applejack deeply frowned in response.
"No. Then I'd be lying," responded Applejack as she lowered her head. Silence filled the room for several seconds before Fluttershy turned to Junior with a frown.
"Does...that mean you don't want to be our friend anymore?" asked Fluttershy. Junior chuckled.
"Don't be silly. Of course I still want to be your friend. All of you. But I can't keep showing myself in town. I have to stay here," said Junior.
"You don't have to," said Twilight as she crossed her arms and looked away. Junior lowered his head.
"Let's make a deal, guys," said Junior. Everyone in the room turned to face Junior curiously.
"Listen, I can't go into town anymore because of what happened. But, I can leave the Everfree every once in a while. I'll go as far as...Sweet Apple Acres and Fluttershy's cottage. Those places are far enough from most townsfolk," said Junior. Twilight rubbed her arm as she looked away.
"I...guess that's fine," said Twilight in reluctance.
"We can do that Hearth's Warming party, but it can't be in town," said Junior.
"Then where?" asked Rarity. Junior looked down in thought. He then began to look around the house. Junior turned to face the other Transmutants.
"Guys?" asked Junior. Mosura sighed as she gave him a small smile.
"I don't mind, but the decorations would need to be brought here. Ours are old and broken," said Mosura. Junior nodded while he found the girls looking unsure of themselves before Pinkie smiled.
"I think we can liven this place up for a party," said Pinkie. Junior nodded.
"OK, and here's the last one. I will keep helping out in town, for all of your sake. But, only if it's something that involves a monster or Transmutant attacks. Anything small like a parasprite invasion or stampeding bunnies I will have to sit out," said Junior. The humans nodded in agreement but still bore frowns.
"Goji, we can work this out. It doesn't have to be this way," said Applejack.
"Just...let me try this for a while. If I'm not satisfied with the results, then I'll come out," said Junior.
"Fine," said Applejack as she crossed her arms. Junior watched the frowns of his friends and the worry from the Sirens. The Transmutant was beginning to have second thoughts with his plan, but shook off the hesitation.
'No. I have to make sacrifices,' thought Junior. He then cleared his throat as he faced them all.
"Guys, I'm going to be preoccupied for a while. Actually, I think we're going to be preoccupied," said Junior as he looked towards the other Transmutants.
"Why?" asked Rodan in confusion. Junior walked to the back of the room and opened the door. Ahead on the metal bridge, he found Erika waiting with a slight worried expression.
"Come on in," said Junior. Erika nodded as she walked along the bridge. Junior stepped back and allowed Erika to step inside. Everyone looked on in shock.
"Huh. I thought I smelled roses," said Angirasu. Mosura looked at Junior with an appalled expression while the Sirens shot Erika a glare.
"You!" growled Adagio as she recognized the Transmutant. Junior raised his hand.
"Adagio, relax! She's with me," said Junior.
"With you?!" questioned the Elements of Harmony.
"Gojira, what is she doing here?! I thought you said that the MONARCH soldiers escaped!" said Mosura.
"More importantly, and I'm repeating Mosu's first question, what is she doing here?!" exclaimed Rodan.
"She needs help finding Sunset Shimmer. She said that the soldiers were broken out by MONARCH's stealth force and were killed by them and the Revolutionaries. Turns out they were working together and they kidnapped Sunset Shimmer," said Junior.
"That's terrible. But, I find that hard to believe. Why would either one ally with each other?" asked Mosura. Erika sighed.
"I don't know. There was this man named Thanatos who led the team that broke us out. I don't know where they've gone and why they did it! I just know that Sunset was taken alive!" cried Erika.
"Wasn't she the chick that was trying to kill you?" asked Rainbow with a raised brow as she looked at Junior.
"Yes, why would you want to help her?" asked Rarity.
"I have my reasons," said Junior. He turned to the Transmutants.
"Guys, this could be big. MONARCH soldiers and the Revolutionaries in an alliance? Something doesn't seem right with that and I doubt the entire organization knows about this," said Junior.
"So, you want us to help you find your old girlfriend so you can save her?" deadpanned Rodan. Twilight's eyes shot wide open while the other girls looked on in shock.
"Wait, 'old girlfriend'?!" exclaimed Twilight. Junior gulped as he heard her appalled tone. He then shot Rodan a glare, who chuckled nervously.
"Tsss. Awkward," muttered Adagio as she looked off to the side.
"For the last time, she was not my girlfriend! I just had a crush on her when I was a kid!" said Junior.
"I- You- We-!" Twilight babbled as she tried to formulate a coherent sentence.
"Twilight, it was just a stupid kiddie crush that I had. It's all in the past," said Junior.
"I...why didn't you tell me about this?" asked Twilight. Junior scowled in response.
"Because you never asked me who I had a crush on before," answered Junior.
"But-"
"Hey, I never asked you about any crushes that you may have had before you met me," said Junior in a defensive manner. Twilight scowled in response. Junior then turned to face Rodan.
"And no, I'm not doing this for me. I'm doing this for Shiragami," said Junior. Erika looked at him in surprise.
"Why her?" asked Rainbow.
"Because Transmutants have to stick together. Besides, I wouldn't feel right letting her lose her friend if there's something I can do to help. The Revolutionaries give me enough reason to get involved," said Junior as he crossed his arms.
"We can help," said Twilight as she stepped forward.
"You can help us find her. But beyond that, stay out of it," said Junior as he began to walk to the back room.
"We can't just stay out of it! You'll need help getting her back!" said Rainbow. Junior turned to face her with a hard stare.
"No, we can do this ourselves," said Junior as he continued to walk towards the cave. Twilight ran after him. The Transmutant turned as he was halfway across the bridge and found Twilight looking at him with a hard stare.
"Why are you so adamant about us helping you? Why are you pushing us away?!" demanded Twilight.
"I'm doing this for your own good," said Junior.
"No, that's not what it is! You're not letting go of the past and it's tearing you apart!" said Twilight.
"I'm going to fix things, Twilight. Soon, it's going to stop hurting and I'll be able to live in peace," said Junior as he turned and continued to walk. Twilight scoffed as she ran after him. She tugged at his arm.
"Then let us help you! We can put an end to it together!" said Twilight.
"I can't get you and the others involved in that, Twilight," said Junior.
"Why? Why don't you trust us with this?" demanded Twilight. Junior turned and glared at her.
"Because you will die!" shouted Junior. Twilight recoiled in response and stared at him with wide eyes. Junior sighed as he lowered his head.
"Twilight, there are some things in this world that you can't help with. This is one of them. MONARCH and the Revolutionaries have to be stopped. But if you and the others get involved, you will not stand a chance, you know why? Because the soldiers will mow you down with their guns," said Junior in a low tone. He hardened his stare.
"The Transmutants will tear you apart without a second thought. This isn't your war, Twilight. It's ours," said Junior. Twilight lowered her head solemnly.
"Gojira, I love you. I can't sit idly by while you try to take on the world on your own. It isn't fair to me and it isn't fair to you," said Twilight. Junior brought his hand under her chin and raised it up.
"I love you too. That’s why I can't let you get involved in this. Not this time. I'll never forgive myself if something were to happen to you for getting involved in this conflict," said Junior. He lowered himself as Twilight leaned closer to him.
"If you keep this up, you'll never be happy. You just...have to let some things go," said Twilight. Junior sighed.
"Easier said than done," said Junior. Twilight brought his face closer to hers as she gave him a firm expression.
"No one ever said it's easy. But the struggle is worth it," said Twilight. Junior looked down at the ground with a frown.
"Right," said Junior. Twilight wrapped her arms around him as she planted her lips against his own. The two shared a short kiss.
"You may not believe it, but things will get better. You'll see," said Twilight. Junior nodded to her.
"I hope so," said Junior. Twilight playfully slapped Junior's chest.
"Well, since you're going to be at home more, I better not have to drag you out of the Everfree for another date, mister," said Twilight with a wink. Junior smirked.
"You can try but I don't think you'd get very far," said Junior. Twilight laughed as she placed a hand on her hip.
"Then I'll just have to stay at your place," said Twilight. Junior took Twilight's hand and began to walk with her out of the cave and back to the main house.
"Fair enough," said Junior with a small chuckle.




Meanwhile in the Frozen North...

The sound of stomping filled the air. Destoroyah walked through the hall of the Temple of Shadows. His eyes were hard and his face bore a small smile as he led several Transmutants. Behind him were Battra, Gaira, Ebirah, Titano, Shinomura, and Mukade. With them were several other unnamed Transmutants. Battra walked with a hard stare as he held Sunset Shimmer by her neck. The Elf grunted as she attempted to free herself.
"Let me go!" shouted Sunset Shimmer as she slammed her fist against Battra's arm.
"Be quiet," ordered Battra as he sent Sunset a glare. Sunset gritted her teeth as she glared at him.
The Transmutants later found themselves inside of a great room near an altar. Behind the shimmering magic wall that held the dead black moth Kaiju in its frozen tomb. Thanatos, Ghidorah, Chrysalis and Onyx stood near an altar. Around the great room were the other members of the Shadow's Hand, Changelings and the Revolutionaries. Destoroyah stopped along with the Transmutants that were by his side.
"The time has come," said Thanatos. Battra stepped forward and threw Sunset to the ground. The Elf panted as she looked around with a frantic expression. On the walls were dozens of Changelings and all around her were Revolutionaries and humans in cloaks. She looked up to the throne and found Thanatos raising his hand. Sunset gasped as she was levitated into the air and brought closer to the altar. She narrowed her eyes.
"You betrayed MONARCH and decided to side with them?! How could you?!" demanded Sunset. Thanatos laughed.
"You are a fool, Sunset Shimmer. MONARCH is under our control. The higher command may think they control the organization, but it is us who are pulling the strings in the dark," said Thanatos. He then glanced at Onyx.
"Isn't that right, Director?" asked Thanatos. Onyx smiled.
"It is, master," said Onyx. Sunset's eyes widened in response as Onyx levitated Sunset over to the stone altar and placed her down on it. Sunset's ankles and her wrists were bounded by black shackles that appeared out of thin air. Sunset grunted as her limbs were spread apart, forcing her to be splayed out on the altar. She panted as she stared fearfully at the hooded old man that stared down at her with his red-orange eyes.
"Wh-What are you going to do to me?" whimpered Sunset. Thanatos chuckled.
"Don't worry. You will be just fine," said Thanatos as his hand glowed with dark magic. Sunset's eyes widened as Thanatos brought his hand down on into her chest. She gasped as she felt something reaching inside of her. Sunset looked down and found Thanatos's hand had fused into her chest.
"Ah!!" screamed Sunset in terror at what she was witnessing. She struggled on the altar with Thanatos's hand in her chest as she continued to scream.
"Hold her still!" ordered Thanatos. Chrysalis sighed in annoyance as she made her way to Sunset's head and used her long arms to hold Sunset by her shoulders. She then used her two extra arms to hold Sunset's head in place as she covered her mouth. Sunset continued to give muffled screams as she kicked her legs, causing the shackles to rattle. Ghidorah grabbed her ankles held her down. He then applied pressure to her ankles, causing Sunset to give a muffle cry in pain.
"Shut up and suck it up," said Chrysalis in annoyance. Sunset moaned as she closed her eyes. She gave a muffled sob as she peaked at Thanatos moving his hand inside of her body. Battra merely watched with a cold stare as he watched Sunset sob to herself.
"This should be enough of her energy for King Sombra," said Thanatos as he pulled his hand out of Sunset's chest. Her chest rippled like a puddle before restoring back to a normal surface. Chrysalis and Ghidorah released Sunset, who inhaled deeply as she coughed furiously. She panted as she whimpered to herself as her eyes were pink from the tears that she had shed.
"Yes," said Thanatos with a dark smile as he held up a flaming ball that was a moderate cyan mixed with black.
"This is merely a fraction of her power. But it is enough to release King Sombra," said Thanatos.  
"Shadow's Hand, present the concentrations of emotion that you have collected over the years," said Thanatos as he turned towards the ice wall as the cult members pulled out glowing, green and black spheres. The Transmutants all looked at the cultists curiously. Onyx pulled out a larger sphere that was crackling like fire.
"What's up with that one?" asked Shinomura. Onyx looked towards the Transmutants with a smile.
"This is Gojira Takeshi the Second's. His hate is strong," said Onyx.
"His hatred," said Battra as he looked at the flaming sphere. Just looking into the sphere, he can feel just how much pain it must cause to one individual. He kept a cold gaze as he watched the cultists hold up the spheres. Onyx held up the sphere of Sunset's power, which sucked in the spheres of emotion, absorbing them like a black hole. As the sphere's disappeared from the hands of the cult members, Thanatos's sphere glowed brighter. He then pointed his finger towards Sunset, causing a dark mist to flow out of her body and into the sphere.
"Your despair and anger for Celestia will contribute greatly," said Thanatos with a dark smile. Sunset whimpered as she stared at the old man. As energy from her negative emotions filled the dark sphere, it began to glow brighter like a raging flame. Thanatos chuckled as he held up the sphere into the air.
"Lord Sombra! We release you from your icy prison! Rise and lead us once again!" shouted Thanatos as he turned and threw the sphere into the icy tomb of the Kaiju. The sphere whizzed pass the frozen Kaiju and bounced along the icy walls. As it traveled further down into the ice cave, it crashed into a great wall and sent cracks into it. The dark demonic magic and the negative emotions that filled the sphere seeped into the cracks behind the ice wall. After a few seconds, the cave rumbled as a bright purple light shined through the cracks. The wall burst open and out came a black cloud that hissed as it flowed through the cave. The Transmutants gasped as the cloud of smoke burst out of the cave and swirled around the room. A dark and echoed chuckle filled the room. Battra's eyes widened as he saw a pair of red and green cat-like eyes in the clouds. The eyes turned towards the altar where they found Thanatos, Onyx, and Ghidorah. The shadow gave a ghostly moan as it crashed down several feet away from the group. Everyone except for Onyx, Ghidorah and Thanatos, recoiled as the clouds forged into one single masculine figure.
"Lord Sombra," said Thanatos as he knelt and pulled back his hood and revealed his silver hair. The old man bowed before the figure before him. The figure was a man standing to be six foot three in height. His muscles were toned underneath the silver armor that covered his body. His breastplate marked his pectorals and ran down to his belly. His arms were covered in spiked gauntlets and his hands in metal clawed gloves. On the Elf's back was a red, fur patterned cape while his head had a silver crown with two silver spikes on each side of his head. In the center were two smaller red spikes with a silver oval in the middle. The Elf's black wavy hair matched his shadows as his thick black eyebrows were furrowed.
"Thanatos and Ghidorah, so good to see you," said Sombra as he revealed the fangs in his mouth. His voice carried a raspy and echoed tone to it.  He smiled darkly as Ghidorah bowed his head.
"Welcome back, King Sombra," said Ghidorah.
"How is it possible that you two are still alive? It has been a thousand years," said Sombra.
"I've studied in the arts of dark magic for years, my master. I've kept myself alive by absorbing the youth of men for centuries," answered Thanatos.
"I was placed under a spell that preserved me until the last few decades," said Ghidorah. Sombra nodded in response. He then turned to face Onyx and Chrysalis. He hummed to himself.
"Who are they? Why is there a Changeling here?" questioned Sombra.
"Master, this is my apprentice, Onyx. This is Queen Chrysalis. She has accepted an alliance to take back the Empire, in exchange for helping her take Equestria. Her army has been a great help at freeing you," said Thanatos. Sombra stared at Chrysalis with a blank stare. The Changeling gave a suppressed growl in annoyance at his silent stare.
"Hmm. Then perhaps we can work something out," said Sombra in a neutral tone. He then grunted as he turned to find Destoroyah down below with the Revolutionaries. The crustacean armored Transmutant merely kept a hard stare.
"Thanatos, what is this creature that is in my presence?" asked Sombra with a raised brow. The Transmutants growled in offense while Destoroyah kept a hard stare.
"How dare you speak to Lord Destoroyah with such-" Shinomura stepped forward with a look of anger. Sombra hardened his eyes at the few Transmutants that stepped forward with zeal. Destoroyah raised his arm in front of them and looked to them with a hard stare. The Transmutants backed down.
"Please forgive my men, your majesty. They are quite sensitive when being referred to as something less than human. Something that they must learn to accept," said Destoroyah with a growl as he looked towards the Transmutants. He then turned to face the shadow king.
"My name is Destoroyah. I am the leader of the Transmutant Revolutionaries. A race capable of transforming into strong beasts. Currently, we wage a war for survival against the rule of humans. We were promised protection and a chance to become powerful enough to stand against our foes so that we may make a new home for ourselves," said Destoroyah. Sombra glanced at Ghidorah with a neutral expression and then back to Destoroyah.
"Yes. I can sense that a number of you are special like my servant, Ghidorah," said Sombra. He then looked to Destoroyah with a dark smile.
"So, you desire to become stronger? To destroy those who threaten to destroy you?" asked Sombra. Destoroyah nodded.
"We all do," said Destoroyah. A few shouts of agreement from the Revolutionaries filled the room. Sombra crossed his arms as he bore a smirk as he turned to Thanatos.
"I was not expecting this for my return, my apprentice. Here, you have passed down all that I have taught you and used that knowledge to teach the descendants of those from long before," said Sombra. He then gestured to the Changelings and Transmutants.
"Now, you have obtained allies for the Crystal Empire," said Sombra.
"We will need them, master. For the Avatar princesses will try to end your reign before it begins," said Thanatos. Sombra growled angrily as he thought back to the Royal sisters that had banished him into the ice. He turned to face all that were in the room.
"If you pledge your allegiance to me, you shall all become strong!" said Sombra. He began to pace around as he directed his attention on all that were in the room.
"The humans have been most unkind to you, I'm sure. But I personally do not care about species. No, I care about strong allies! Allies who can stand up on their own and crush any obstacle in their path! Separated, we are strong but we can fall. I've learned that when the Avatars ruined my reign. But together, we can all end their reign and rule!" said Sombra. He turned to face Chrysalis.
"Your people shall be free to feast on as much love as you desire! I personally could live without such a disgusting emotion," said Sombra with a cringe. Chrysalis smiled to herself. Battra raised a brow in response.
'Love, disgusting?' thought Battra. Sombra then turned to face Destoroyah.
"You and your kind will be granted the power that you seek!  You shall have your own nation and your own empire where your race can thrive!" said Sombra. Destoroyah gave a dark smile while the Transmutants looked on in hope.
"Together, we shall rise up to defeat those who have brought us down to be the lowest. We will rise!" shouted Sombra. He then shot his hands out as his cape was blown by the wind.
"Glory to the Crystal Empire!" shouted Sombra.
"Glory to the Crystal Empire!!" shouted the cultists. Destoroyah shot his fist into the air.
"Revolution!" shouted Destoroyah.
"Revolution!!" shouted the Revolutionaries in unison. Chrysalis flapped her insect wings, causing a loud buzz.
"For the Hive!" shouted Chrysalis. The Changelings gave a buzzing sound with their wings as well.
"For the Hive!!" the Changelings shouted in unison. Sombra gestured for Destoroyah and Chrysalis to join him. The two made their way over to the Elf as they held hard stares. A Changeling guard followed Chrysalis while Battra followed Destoroyah. Thanatos stood at Sombra's side. As the three leaders kept their eyes on each other, Sombra held his hand out.
"May our enemies fall and may our kingdoms thrive," said Sombra. Destoroyah took Sombra's hand and shook it.
"May the strongest survive," said Destoroyah. Sombra then shook Chrysalis's hand.
"May we rise above our struggles," said Chrysalis. The room interrupted in cheers from the groups. Battra turned to find Sunset Shimmer staring at the group with wide eyes. Battra hardened his eyes as he began to approach the altar.
"You're going to pay for what you did to my little sister," said Battra in a cold tone. Sunset gasped as the Transmutant held her head down.
"No! Please, don't!" cried Sunset. Battra reared his hand back as he aimed for Sunset's fearful eyes. He grunted as he thrust his arm forward towards Sunset but his fingers never reached her eyes. His eyes widened in shock as he found Sombra holding onto his arm as he stared at Sunset's wide eyes. Battra sent the Elf a glare.
"What are you doing?" asked Battra. Sombra moved Battra to the side as he shook his head.
"No. Do not kill the girl. We still need her," said Sombra. Battra clenched his fist in response. Sombra then turned to face Sunset with a smile as he examined her feminine figure. He then chuckled as he saw her fearful face.
"My, she looks wonderful when in fear. She will make a lovely bride," said Sombra. Sunset gasped as her eyes widened in horror. Battra's eyes widened.
"I...But-" Battra began to protest but stopped as he found Destoroyah giving him a hard stare.
"Battra," called Destoroyah. The young Transmutant gritted his teeth in response and then lowered his head. He sighed heavily as he turned away from the altar.
"Very well, your majesty," said Battra as he clenched his fist. He then turned to glare at Sunset. He then turned away and walked away from the altar. Sombra ran a cold metal gloved hand over Sunset's cheek, making her shiver from the cold metal.
"Thanatos, when do we open the gates to the spirit worlds?" asked Destoroyah.
"For now, we will have to wait a bit longer. When one of the dwarf stars is in the right position. On that day, you shall become the strongest beings in our world," said Thanatos as he placed his hood back over his head.
"When will that be, exactly?" asked Destoroyah in an irked tone. He wished the old man had just given a specific day rather than having to ask himself.
"By early next year," said Thanatos. Destoroyah sighed in frustration.
"Do not worry. It will not be long now. Besides, one dwarf star experiences a specific change once every thousand years. This change has already happened to a few before and remain so today, but only one of them is closest enough to draw power from," said Thanatos. Destoroyah nodded in response.
"Very well. What should we do until then?" asked Destoroyah.
"We will need help of one of your trusted Transmutants to retrieve two artifacts for the day to come. They will be broken down and their powers will be used by Sombra, myself, and Onyx. We will draw more power from Sunset Shimmer and the violet dwarf star to open the spirit worlds and grant enough time to bring in all of the spirits of Kaiju that were reincarnated today," said Thanatos. Destoroyah nodded in response.
"I shall send my best and most trusted to retrieve these artifacts. Just inform me when we begin and tell those I send what they are looking for," said Destoroyah as he walked away.
"Of course," said Thanatos. Destoroyah turned to face the Revolutionaries.
"You are dismissed," said Destoroyah as he continued to walk down the hall. He smiled darkly.
'Soon, the Takeshi clan will finally be completely gone and I will restore honor to mine. Neighpon will be the Spider Crab's once again,' thought Destoroyah.
As the Transmutants left the room, Sombra stood with Chrysalis in silence. He then turned to face her with a neutral expression. Chrysalis sighed as she turned to face the Elf king.
"If I were you, I'd be careful around those things. They are a lot stronger than they look," said Chrysalis. Sombra nodded in response.
"I shall keep that in mind. But, I do have the loyalty of one," said Sombra as he glanced at Ghidorah. He watched as the Transmutant and Onyx move Sunset Shimmer away from the altar as she was bounded in magic shackles.
"No! Please, you can't do this to me!" cried Sunset as she attempted to flee. Ghidorah merely grabbed Sunset by her shoulder and moved her to his front.
"Move it!" ordered Ghidorah. Sombra hummed to himself as he watched Ghidorah.
"Master," called Thanatos. Sombra turned to face Thanatos as he stood by the ice tomb of the Kaiju.
"There is something I would like to show you," said Thanatos as he turned and began to walk into the icy cave. Sombra turned to face Chrysalis.
"You may return to wherever you reside. I trust my apprentice has a way of contacting you?" asked Sombra. Chrysalis nodded.
"Yes. But my subjects and I cannot travel in the snow. Our wings will shatter," said Chrysalis. From her side came Agana.
"Don't worry, we'll get you and your subjects home safely," said Agana. She then bowed to Sombra.
"My Liege," said Agana. Sombra nodded in approval. He then turned to join Thanatos inside of the Kaiju tomb. Sombra ran his hand over the frozen exoskeleton of the creature and continued on through the cave. The air had grown colder, but it did nothing to affect him. Sombra's metal boots kicked up snow and ice, leaving tracks behind. Sombra eventually found Thanatos further into the cave and found a crystalline pod with a male figure. He stood by Thanatos as he looked at the figure with a neutral expression.
"What's this?" asked Sombra. Thanatos sighed.
"I know that Ghidorah is a powerful ally. He was brought to you as a gift by the one who reincarnated him. He was meant to serve you and to expand your empire. But, I fear that he might turn on us the first chance that he has," said Thanatos.
"When he gains the power of a Kaiju, he might," said Sombra. Thanatos then looked to Sombra with a neutral expression.
"That’s why we must be ready. But, I took the liberty of preparing a replacement and your very own successor. Unlike Ghidorah, he will not turn on you," said Thanatos. He then gestured towards the figure.
"Here, he was bred many years ago. He was created from the blood of one of the reincarnated Kaiju and was infused by the magic of Crystal Human Magic," said Thanatos. He then looked to Sombra with a sinister smile. "I think you may be familiar with who I am referring to."
"Princess Amore. Former ruler of the Crystal Empire," said Sombra in a low tone. He hardened his eyes.
"She was a fool. I could have led our Empire to greatness. Yet she denied me my rightful place as the one to succeed her. Something that she paid for with her life," said Sombra. He then looked towards the figure inside.
"We needed at least two different individuals and their blood in order to create a life form that would not die from having an incomplete set of genes. So, we chose a boy that was reincarnated after one of the Kaiju. He was a young warrior from a deceased clan that lived in Neighpon," said Thanatos.
"So, this is essentially their son?" asked Sombra. Thanatos nodded.
"In a way, yes. Their blood flows into his veins. He was granted the same abilities as his father as a Transmutant," said Thanatos. Sombra looked over the male figure that had his eyes closed. The figure was a Neighponese male that appeared to be in his mid-twenties. His ears were pointed, marking him as an Elf. His shoulders and forearms were covered in crystal-like protrusions that stuck out of his flesh. The man's spine was exposed out of his back, but did not bleed. The man's hair and eyebrows were silver.
"Does he have a name?" asked Sombra.
"Onyx's scientists gave him a name, which was 'Diamond Dragon', but here, we've paid homage to his father," said Thanatos. He then looked at the clone that lied sleeping inside.
"We call him..." Thanatos began.




Later...

Battra sat down alone inside of the temple of Shadows in silence. He bore a look of anger. The Transmutant was just seconds away from avenging his sister but the damned fallen King had ruined that chance. He was tempted to just punch the King and jam his fingers into Sunset Shimmer's eye sockets, but he knew better than to react with violence against the King. It would have started a battle between everyone and would have left the Transmutants dead. He instead mopped at how he would never get the chance to avenge his dear sister.
"Damn it all," spat Battra. He heard the sound of footsteps approaching from his side. He turned and found Destoroyah wandering over to him.
"Battra, thank you for restraining yourself," said Destoroyah. Battra sighed as he looked away.
"It wasn't easy, Sensei. I really wanted to kill that girl," said Battra.
"I know you did. But still, you put the group before yourself. That is commendable," said Destoroyah. Battra sighed.
"Sensei, I don't like this King Sombra. He seems...off," said Battra.
"I know. Neither do I. But this is our only option," said Destoroyah with a sigh. He then turned towards the other Revolutionaries that conversed with each other.
"With a few of our members missing, we feel more vulnerable," said Destoroyah. He turned to face Battra with a hard stare. "Which is why we have to trust Ghidorah, for now,"
"Understood, Sensei," said Battra. He stood up to his feet and began to walk away.
"I should check on Megaguirus and the couple in Neighpon. I want to see if they're ready to come here," said Battra.
"Go on right ahead," said Destoroyah with a nod. Battra continued on through the hall of the temple in silence. He pulled out a flat stone with a gem in bedded in it. He pressed the gem, which opened a swirling portal. Battra made his way inside and found himself in an alley in Neighpon. Battra hid his warp stone and placed his hands in his jacket's pockets. He shivered as he felt the cold. Battra continued on through the small neighborhood in Trotkyo, Neighpon.
After he spent several minutes walking, he eventually found himself inside of the elevator that led to Mai Yoshida's apartment. The Transmutant left the elevator as it reached the floor that he desired. Battra made his way over to Mai's apartment door and knocked. Shortly after the knock, the sound of the door being unlocked reached Battra's ears. The door opened and revealed Megaguirus standing with her face covered in a mud mask coating and a bath towel on her head. Battra recoiled with his eyes wide.
"What the hell?" asked Battra. Megaguirus scoffed as she sent him a scowl.
"Hello to you too," deadpanned Megaguirus.
"Eh...sorry. I just wasn't expecting to see you wearing a mud mask," chuckled Battra. Megaguirus rolled her eyes as she stepped aside, allowing Battra to step inside. The male Transmutant took off his shoes and placed them to the side and began to walk to the living room. He found Mai and Abra sitting together on the ground. Battra's eyes widened in surprise as he found Mai rubbing a coat of mud mask over Abra's face. The human's face brightened into a smile as she caught sight of Battra.
"Hello, Yasu-san!" greeted Mai. Battra lamely waved.
"Hey," said Battra. Megaguirus took a seat beside them as she picked up a board with a paper stuck to it. She began to sketch on the paper as Battra stared curiously. He turned to his side and found Hok sitting on the couch with the triplets in his arms.
"Uh...little help here?" asked Hok with a chuckle. Battra nodded as he made his way over to him and took Hope out of his arms. The baby cooed as she was cradled in Battra's arms. The male Transmutant sat down on the sofa as he stared into the baby's red-orange eyes. He lightly smiled as Hope moved her arms around while cooing.
"Oh, Yasu-san!" called Mai. Battra turned his head to face Mai.
"Yes?" asked Battra.
"The babies are going to need more food and diapers for the week. Why don't you and I head into town and shop for some?" suggested Mai as she stood up from the ground as she carried a bowl filled with remains of the contents that she had rubbed on Abra and Megaguirus.
Megaguirus shot up to her feet as she placed her board on the ground.
"Uh...why don't I go with you instead, Battra?  I'm sure Mai is busy," said Megaguirus with a forced smile.
"Nah. I'm free right now! Besides, you may not want to go out in public with a mud mask on," said Mai as she gestured to her own cheek. Megaguirus cleared her throat as she sat down.
"Right," said Megaguirus as her face bore a small scowl. Battra nodded in response.
"OK. Here, someone take Hope," said Battra. Megaguirus stood up to her feet and made her way over to Battra. She took Hope into her arms and sat down on the sofa beside him.
"Alright! I'm going to put this stuff away and get my coat," said Mai as she rushed out of the living room and down the hall. Battra sighed as he slumped in his seat.
"You seem tired," said Abra with a curious stare.
"I am. A lot has happened during the last two days," said Battra.
"What exactly?" asked Hok.
"Well, our alliance with the humans had led us to cause trouble in Canterlot while they broke some prisoners out," said Battra as he rubbed his head.
"Were any civilians killed?" asked Megaguirus with a slight worried tone.
"Not that I know of. I was actually too busy killing rebels to meet Thanatos near the castle," answered Battra.
"So, what happened?" asked Abra.
"Long story short, we fought some rebels, a few of us were stuck fighting the princesses and Gojira Takeshi," answered Battra. Hok's eyes widened in response.
"The Avatars?! Did anyone make it back?" asked Hok.
"We all did. But they were badly hurt. We ended up only taking one of the soldiers," said Battra. He shook his head. "We now brought the King of the fallen Crystal Empire back with her power. It seems that the Shadow's Hand had been planning this for years,"
"OK, so you guys helped them get their King back. Where does that leave us, the Transmutants?" asked Megaguirus with a shrug.
"King Sombra and the Shadow's Hand seem to be willing to keep their end of the deal. If we help them overthrow the Avatars that rule Equestria, he will help us in our struggle with MONARCH and the High Command," said Battra.
"How can we trust them?" asked Abra in a worried tone.
"I don't know. I've tried scanning through their minds to find any evidence of deceit, but I think they're sensitive to my abilities," said Battra.
"How? You're just reading minds!" said Megaguirus.
"True, but the host can feel my meddling if I use my power on them for too long. I tried using it on one of the cultists, but she looked at me with annoyance," said Battra. He then shuttered. "She said, 'you better not be trying to manipulate my mind so you can have your way with me'."
"Oh my," said Abra with wide eyes. Megaguirus scoffed.
"She must think highly of herself," said Megaguirus.
"Look, the point is that I think these Elves have their minds trained well. Using mental manipulation or mind reading will prove to be difficult if not dangerous. It may even shatter any trust that we have with each other if I were to scan through Thanatos's mind," said Battra with a sigh.
"So, it's just faith we have to go on?" asked Hok.
"Looks that way," answered Battra. "But, I suppose we can't be too worried. They have made an alliance with a Changeling Hive. They wouldn't dare cross the Queen unless they have a death wish,"
"Battra, you said that there was a way that we could become stronger to beat MONARCH. How so?" asked Megaguirus.
"Well-" Battra was going to answer but was interrupted by Mai as she entered the living room.
"Alright, I'm ready Yasu-san! Let's hurry before it gets dark," said Mai. Battra took a quick glance at Megaguirus.
"I'll explain later when we get back to the Frozen North," said Battra in Equish. Megaguirus nodded in response. Battra stood up to his feet and met Mai at the door.
"We'll be back!" said Mai as she waved to the remaining Transmutants. They waved back and watched as Mai and Battra walked out the door. Megaguirus gave a heavy sigh with a small frown on her face, causing Hok to look at her curiously.
"Hey, what's wrong?" asked Hok. Megaguirus's cheeks began to flush.
"Uh...nothing! Nothing is wrong!" said Megaguirus with a titter. Abra's face grew a coy smile.
"Ooh~. I see what's going on here," said Abra.
"Mm!" Megaguirus went stiff in response while Abra lightly chuckled.
"What?" asked Hok in confusion.
"Isn't it obvious? Megaguirus likes Battra!" said Abra. Hok kept a blank stare several seconds.
"Oh! Oh, yeah I knew that," said Hok as he looked away. Abra gave him a deadpanned stare in response.
"You don't have to lie about it if you didn't know," said Abra. Hok chuckled in embarrassment. Abra rolled her eyes in response and turned to face Megaguirus with a grin.
"How long has it been since you had feelings for him?" asked Abra.
"Uh...a few months," answered Megaguirus as she looked away with a bright blush.
"Have you confessed to him? Did you two ever go out?!" asked Abra with an eager expression. Megaguirus avoided contact.
"Not...exactly. But we technically did go out. We went to a cafe and to a night club some time ago," said Megaguirus. She then cleared her throat. "It wasn't a very ideal date. I found out that he was keeping Yoshida a secret when we saw her working at the cafe. A few guys that I may have flirted with recognized me at the night club," said Megaguirus with a nervous laugh.
"That must have been awkward," said Hok.
"You don't know the half of it," said Megaguirus.
"Well, you seem to be jealous over Mai," said Abra as she removed the bath towel that was on her head.
"Wouldn't you? I mean, he met her before we met and seemed real friendly with her," said Megaguirus.
"But isn't he friendly with you as well?" asked Hok with a raised brow.
"Well...yeah. But I think she has a trick up her sleeve," said Megaguirus. She scowled to herself. "She's more girly compared to me,"
"Maybe. But, you actually know Battra. That's an ace up your own sleeve. All you have to do is use that to your advantage," said Abra with a wink. Megaguirus looked down in thought. She smiled to herself.
"Yeah, you're right. Maybe I haven't lost just yet," said Megaguirus with a devious smile. Abra chuckled to herself as she placed a hand on Megaguirus's shoulder.
"We should come up with a game plan. I can give you some pointers if you'd like," said Abra as she gave Megaguirus a thumbs up and her own sinister smile. Megaguirus nodded as she kept her smile. Hok watched with a nervous smile.
"It's nice to see them getting along," muttered Hok.



Battra and Mai wandered through town in silence. Mai sneaked a glance at the male Transmutant as she bore a small smile. She took a couple of steps closer to Battra's side.
"So, how goes the search for a home for your cousin?" asked Mai. She then waved her hands frantically as she bore a nervous expression. "N-Not that I mind them staying at my place! I'm just concerned for them, that’s all!"
"Well, I think there's a place that might be good enough for them. I just want to make sure if there's any alternatives before we start making plans. There's also the cost," answered Battra. Mai smiled as she nodded.
"That's good! You know, I think it's nice that you're helping out your cousin," said Mai.
"Thanks. It's what I do for those closest to me," said Battra as he searched the street for any stores that may have what the infants would need. Mai took his arm and rushed along the sidewalk with him. Battra looked at her in confusion as he was pulled down the area.
"Hey, what are you doing?" asked Battra.
"Why don't we hang out for a while? We can get the stuff for the babies later!" said Mai as she sent Battra a smile.
"Uh...but-" Battra found himself being dragged along town.



Battra sat across from Mai with a neutral expression. The two were sitting in a ramen shop where a few other people sat, conversed, and ate. Mai bore a large grin on her face as she propped her head up with her hands. Battra cleared his throat as he scratched the side of his head.
"So...do you often drag your friends to hang out?" asked Battra. Mai giggled in response.
"Sorry, I hope you don't mind. I've been meaning to hang out with you since you've showed up after months. But you've been busy these last few weeks," said Mai.
"No, it's fine. I was just not expecting this," said Battra as he waved his hand. He turned as a woman came over to their table and sat down to bowls of ramen.
"Here you go! Enjoy, you two," said the woman with a wink.
"Thank you," said Battra and Mai in unison. They took their own bowl and readied their own chopsticks.
"I humbly receive this meal," the two said in unison. Battra took a bottle of hot sauce from the side of the table and began to pour some in it. Mai's eyes widened as Battra continued pour more of the sauce into his bowl of ramen. The sauce mixed with the juices of the noodles along with the bits of ham and vegetables.
"That's...a lot of hot sauce," said Mai with wide eyes.
"Hmm?" Battra glanced at her as he stirred his bowl of noodles. "Oh. Yeah, I like my ramen spicy,"
"That's an understatement! You're gonna have to go to the bathroom soon if you take in that much spiciness!" said Mai. Battra shrugged.
"Not really. I have a stomach that's greater than any mortal man," said Battra as he ate his meal. Mai smiled in amusement at the Transmutant's confidence. She then took the hot sauce and began to pour some in her own bowl. Battra raised a brow.
"What are you doing?" asked Battra.
"Trying something different. Besides, I think I can match up your level," answered Mai as she poured a bit more hot sauce into her bowl. She was careful not to put as much in her bowl compared to Battra's. She then eyed her bowl warily as she thought of what she had done.
"Yoshida-san?" called Battra. Mai gulped and then slurped her noodles. Mai smiled as she kept her eyes on Battra.
"Yeah?" asked Mai. Battra looked on in concern as Mai's brows became damp with sweat.
"Are...are you alright?" asked Battra.
"Yeah! I'm great!" said Mai as she gave a small sniffle as her eyes watered.
"Here. Drink your ice tea while you eat," said Battra with a worried expression. He pushed a cup filled with ice tea towards the human. Mai nodded as she took her cup and began to chug down her tea. She sighed in relief.
"Sorry, I'm not good with spicy stuff," said Mai with an embarrassed laugh.
"If that's the case, why did you do pour hot sauce in your ramen?" asked Battra with a deadpanned stare. Mai crossed her arms as she looked away.
"Well, excuse me for wanting to try something different! I just wanted to wipe that cocky smile off of your face," said Mai. Battra shook his head in amusement.
"Next time, start small," said Battra. Mai grumbled to herself as she ate her meal. She pushed through the spiciness as she ate and rinsed her burning tongue with her tea. Battra went back to eating his meal, savoring the taste that danced on his taste buds. His eyes widened as he spotted a group of MONARCH soldiers marching through the street outside the window. He brought his face down as he avoided eye contact. Mai failed to catch this as she continued to eat. She looked out the window and her eyes widened in surprise.
"Huh. They must be really sweeping everywhere to find them," said Mai.
"Who?" asked Battra as he tried to sound calm.
"The Revolutionaries. Didn't you hear that they found where they were hiding and captured some of them?" asked Mai.
"I...no I haven't," lied Battra as he continued to eat.
"Well, they did. But some of them got away. Now, the government has given MONARCH permission to be closer to its cities," said Mai.
"Is that wise? I mean, where does it end when it comes to allowing MONARCH this much freedom?" asked Battra. Mai shrugged as she stared at her bowl.
"I...I honestly would feel a lot safer this way. I mean...it can't be any worse than the Revolutionaries," said Mai. Battra's eyes slightly widened. He lowered his head a bit with a look of dejection.
"I understand. Yeah, I suppose that most people would feel safer if they were here," said Battra.
"Well, it's just that the Revolutionaries aren't looking for friends in us. So, you gotta..." Mai shrugged in response as she bore a small look of amusement. She lost her expression as she noticed Battra's expression.
"Hey, are you OK?" asked Mai.
"Huh? Yeah, I'm fine," answered Battra. Mai looked down in embarrassment.
"Sorry. I guess you're one of those people that heard about Transmutants getting along with humans in Equestria," said Mai. Battra looked to her in surprise.
"Wait, they do?" asked Battra.
"Well, that's what the rumors are. A co-worker was in Equestria during a royal wedding. She said she saw several Transmutants fighting these bug-like creatures. I guess the Equestrians are allowing the Transmutants there to live among them. They seem alright, unlike the Revolutionaries. I assume that's why you feel bad," said Mai.
"Right," said Battra with a small frown as he continued eating. Mai looked down at the table and then back to Battra. She lightly sighed to herself.
"Hey, can I ask you something?" asked Mai.
"S-Sure," said Battra, startled out of his thoughts.
"What's your relationship with Tonbo-san, exactly?" asked Mai. Battra raised a brow at her.
"Megaguirus? Well, we're good friends," said Battra as he shrugged. Mai looked down at her bowl as she stirred the remains of her ramen.
"Hmm. Good friends, huh?" asked Mai with a small smile.
"Yes," answered Battra. Mai sighed as she leaned closer across the table. She then placed on a playful smile.
"Do you love her~?" asked Mai, teasingly. Battra's eyes widened as his cheeks flushed.
"Do I...I uh...I mean...I-I don't-" Battra stuttered uncontrollably as he tried to formulate a coherent response. He cleared his throat.
"I uh...If by love you mean, I care about her, than yes. I mean, maybe not in a romantic sort of way," said Battra as he nervously rubbed the back of his head. Mai laughed in amusement. Battra scowled as he looked away. Mai brought her finger over Battra's forehead and flicked him, causing the Transmutant to flinch and show an annoyed look.
"You're cute when you're flustered, you know that?" asked Mai as she propped her chin up on the table with her hand. Battra's blush brightened as he kept avoiding eye contact with the human while Mai giggled.
"Hey," called Mai. Reluctantly, Battra turned his attention back to the young woman. She bore a small, yet sad smile.
"Your secret is safe with me," said Mai as she gave Battra a wink. The Transmutant looked at her in confusion at her response.
"Hey, are you OK?" asked Battra.
"I'm good. Let's hurry and finish eating," said Mai as she went back to eating her ramen. Her face began to turn red from all of the spiciness that plagued her mouth. Battra reluctantly went back to eating as he thought back to her expression.
'I wonder...' thought Battra.
The next hour had gone by and Battra found himself walking besides Mai as the two carried bags filled with baby food and diapers. The Transmutant glanced at Mai and found her to be silent as she carried a neutral expression. The hour at the ramen shop still stuck with Battra. He just couldn't help but wonder why Mai seemed to smile like that. He flinched as he felt Mai walk closer at his side, prompting Battra to look down to find a small smile on her face.
"Yasu-san, I still think you'd make a good boyfriend," said Mai. Battra sighed as he looked away in embarrassment.
"W-Where is all of this coming from?" asked Battra.
"No reason. Just thought I'd let you know," said Mai as she leaned her head against Battra's shoulder. The two continued to walk down the sidewalk and to the apartment building. Mai sneaked a glance at Battra, who was flushing at his cheeks.
'Am I even the right girl for him? Or should I just...' thought Mai. She mentally sighed in exasperation. She shook her head as they came closer to the apartment. The two entered the elevator inside of the building and eventually found themselves outside of Mai's door. The human fished out for her key and unlocked the door to her home. As Mai and Battra entered, they found Megaguirus resting on the couch. Battra made his way over towards the Transmutant and began to shake her shoulder.
"Meg, wake up," whispered Battra. Megaguirus's brows crinkled as she stirred in her sleep.
"Five more minutes, dad," muttered Megaguirus. Battra smiled in amusement while Mai made her way over to the guest bedroom. She quietly opened the door and found Hok and Abra sleeping together in bed. In between them were their triplets, sleeping soundly. Mai lightly smiled and closed the door. She made her way back to the living room to find Megaguirus sitting up as she rubbed her eyes. Battra patted Megaguirus on her shoulder.
"I'm going to put this stuff away. Get ready to head home in a minute," said Battra as he took the bags and made his way to the kitchen.
"Hmm. 'Kay," replied Megaguirus in a drowsy tone. Mai took a seat beside Megaguirus with a neutral expression on her face. The human leaned close to the Transmutant.
"He's a real nice guy, you know. Handsome, too," said Mai. Megaguirus blushed in response and looked away.
"Oh, yeah. He's pretty cool. Not bad looking either," muttered Megaguirus. Mai chuckled in response.
"Just so you know, I'm not going to lose to you. Not without a fight," said Mai. Megaguirus looked at her in confusion, but then her mind registered what she meant. The Transmutant hardened her eyes as she bore a smirk.
"So, it's going to be like that?" asked Megaguirus.
"Yep. No hard feelings, but I really like him. I figured it out that you did as well whenever you would look at him when he wasn't paying attention," said Mai in a teasing tone. Megaguirus hid her face as she scowled. She then smirked to herself.
"What's to stop me from confessing to him now and becoming his girlfriend?" asked Megaguirus.
"Easy. You don't want to be rejected unless you're sure that he likes you the way that you do," said Mai. Megaguirus shrugged.
"Alright. We'll see who he'll choose. Worse-case scenario, it's neither of us," said Megaguirus. Mai smirked as well and held her hand out. The two shook hands as Battra made his way out of the kitchen.
"What are you two up to?" asked Battra.
"Nothing," said Mai and Megaguirus in a nonchalant manner. Battra shrugged in response.
"OK. Well, thank you Mai. We'll drop by again soon to check on Abra and Hok. I put the baby food in the pantry," said Battra.
"Sure thing! See ya around!" said Mai as she walked the Transmutants out the door. The two waved to her as they exited her apartment. Battra and Megaguirus continued down the hall in silence.
'So much for not being pressured. This sucks,' thought Megaguirus.