Shy and Aggressive

by Johng117

Anthology: Friendship is Magic Pt.4

It's been a couple weeks since Junior had been over to Applejack's home. That left plenty of time of interacting more with the club room. By this time, he realized how close Mosura and Sunset had grown to him, especially with him and Sunset coming to a better understanding from each other, despite a heated argument they had before. Although, it was also shortly after the nasty incident after the Fall Formal, he hoped that his presence didn't too negatively affect anything. He found himself sitting at a lunch table with them, along with Angirasu, Rodan, and the Main 6. It was funny. Just before, Junior was either by himself or with Rodan during lunch, but now he was surrounded by a lot of different people.

While Junior preferred his space and some solitude, he didn't hate this, especially since the atmosphere felt warm. He found himself looking to Fluttershy, who gave him the warmest smile that she had given him. He thought that the two of them had actually grown closer too. If not for her, he'd still be in angst, alone somewhere.

Later that day, Junior found himself walking through passing period. He kept thinking back to how different he felt compared to back then. He wasn't as agitated as before. It was like something in him has started to change. Whatever it was, Junior liked it. This must have been what Twilight was talking about when she mentioned 'sharing her experience'.

During P.E., Junior was jogging on the track. He was panting as he passed up some students, who appeared to have grown exhausted. Junior chuckled as he ran, feeling satisfaction to be able to leave some in dust rather than he himself being left. It was like these days, he had grown some more energy. It could be that his shift in mood may have been link to it. Whatever the case, Junior was loving being able to actually run faster, but it also may have had something to do with the fact that he no longer had an inhibitor chip in him. Fortunately, Fluttershy and the others had vowed to keep that fact a secret. Plus the club has allowed him to get his focus off of that worry. Though at first he was afraid to get back in since he was sprouting scales randomly that looked like rashes.

Eventually, Junior made his way to the final lap. Coach Agony nodded in approval as he marked the boy's time. Junior chuckled as he strolled over to the bleachers, leaning against them with a sigh. Rodan panted as he made his way over.

"Damn, dude. Share your secret on how you're able to get this good at running the mile," said Rodan, wiping the sweat from his brow. Junior shrugged.

"Your guess is as good as mine," said Junior with a smirk. Rodan scowled.

"You know, that look on your face pisses me off," said Rodan. Junior chuckled as he patted the boy's shoulder. Rodan gave him a strange look.

"Dude you're starting to creep me out. You're in too good of a mood. I don't like it," said Rodan.

"I do," said Applejack, making her way over.

"Hey, what's up?" Junior greeted with a smile.

"Come on, AJ. Even you gotta admit that it's not normal for him to be in this good of a mood," said Rodan, cocking a brow. Applejack hummed as she looked to Junior, a playful pondering look on her face.

"I don't know. It's nice to see him in a good mood," said Applejack.

"It must be that I'm used to him not being in a good mood with all of these years I've known him," said Rodan.

"Could be," said Junior.

---

It was after school. Junior found himself in the Friendship Club. He scratched his head as he looking through his work. Meanwhile, the rest of the club was sitting closer together at the table. Among them were the newest members, Angirasu and Rodan.

"Gojira, won't you join us?" asked Twilight.

"Not right now. I still have a couple more problems to work through," said Junior.

"Alright. Who's next?" asked Twilight.

"Me! I got a good one," said Rodan.

"Floor's all yours," said Sunset.

"Alright. What do you call a fake noodle?" asked Rodan, his voice turning to an accent. This got some chuckles out of the other club members.

"What?" asked Mosura.

"An Im-Pasta!" said Rodan. The others chuckled in amusement.

"Ey! Pasta-pazool!" laughed Sunset. Junior shook his head in amusement.

"What do you call a flying a Transformer?" asked Erika.

"An Aerialbot?" asked Rodan.

"A Seeker!" said Sunset.

"Nope! It's a robot in Deh-skies!" said Erika. The club erupted into chuckles.

"Not bad," said Junior, as he finished off his work and put his book away. While he normally thought puns were dumb, this club made him appreciate them. At least there was some effort put into these lame puns. He got up and began to move his seat to the circle with the group, sitting next to Fluttershy and Mosura.

"OK, I got one! What do you call a dinosaur that can't land a good joke? A Tyrannosaurus-Wrecks!" said Mosura. This got laughs from the rest of the club. Junior chuckled.

"Hey! You bet Jur-Ass-ic can't!" said Junior over the laughter. Everyone went silent.

"Wait. What did you just say?" asked Mosura. Junior stifled his chuckles.

"I-I said, 'You bet Jur-Ass-ic can't'!" said Junior.

"Ooh!!" Everyone in the room cried out. They all laughed in hysterics.

"You did not just go there!" laughed Sunset.

"Comedy gold!" said Rodan. Junior chuckled as everyone began to settle down.

"Man, you should've joined in sooner. That was a good laugh," said Mosura.

"Nice word play, Gojira," said Twilight in approval.

"Thank you," said Junior. There was a sudden frantic knock at the door. Everyone turned in confusion.

"Huh. Who could that be?" Twilight got up and made her way to the door. Once she opened it, she yelped as she was suddenly grabbed by her shoulders.

"I need help!!" cried Rainbow, her eyes wide and her hair frazzled.

"Rainbow Dash?" Fluttershy's brows raised in surprise.

"Whoa. Where's the fire?" asked Rodan.

"I have a big game coming up in two weeks! And one of our guys just broke his leg! We need someone to fill in for him or our chances at winning will be lower!" said Rainbow, frantic.

"Oh no! That's awful!" said Fluttershy.

"Yeah! So I need someone to do it! Preferably a boy!" said Rainbow, looking to the boys in the room.

"Wait a minute, girls are an option?" asked Junior in confusion.

"It's a Co-ed thing going on with this game! We got the best players from both the boys' and girls' team combing into one team for this game with another school coming up. They're doing the same," explained Rainbow.

"Eh. Not sure I like the idea of co-ed sports. That sounds like a slippery slope," said Junior with a grimace.

"Look, I don't care about that! I need someone to fill in! Anyone!" said Rainbow.

"I don't think I can. I'm supposed to be home then, since my cousin is supposed to be coming back from college for break," said Angirasu.

"Ugh! Seriously?!" asked Rainbow incredulously.

"My aunt is hell bent on us spending time together. She really misses her," said Angirasu, emphasizing the word, 'misses'.

"W-Well, what about you, Ro? You can help your 'home girl' out, right?" asked Rainbow, a weak smile on her face.

"Ooh. Sorry. I'm actually in trouble with my mom right now. I was falling behind one of my classes. If I don't get that grade up, I'm getting 'la chancla'," said Rodan.

"Huh?" asked Rainbow.

"You ever hear how Mexicoltan kids get hit with sandals by their mothers? That's what he means," said Junior.

"Wait a minute, I thought you were Neighsian," said Sunset in confusion.

"I'm mixed," said Rodan.

"Ah." Sunset nodded in understanding.

"So you can't- Ugh..." Rainbow groaned. She then grimaced as she looked to Junior, her lip quivering.

"I hate to ask," said Rainbow.

"Then don't," said Junior, crossing his arms.

"Gojira!" said Fluttershy in disapproval.

"What? If she's gonna be like that, then I'm not gonna help. Besides, sports aren't my thing," said Junior.

"I only said that because I didn't think you'd be interested! Just help me out, man!" said Rainbow.

"I don't know..." Junior hummed as he leaned back in his feet.

"Ugh! Come on! Look, what do you want? Money? I'll pay you! I'll do your homework! I'll do anything!" said Rainbow, pleadingly. Junior gave a heavy sigh.

"Which sport?"

"Soccer!" said Rainbow. Junior hummed to himself.

"You just need me to fill in for that one game, right?" asked Junior.

"Yes!" answered Rainbow. Junior scratched his head as he thought about it more. Rainbow was gritting her teeth as she anxiously waited for his answer. Everyone sat silently, waiting to hear as well. Fluttershy was worried, hoping that the boy wouldn't try to play a cruel trick by pretending to consider the request.

"Oh fine, I'll do it. For free, mind you. I don't want there to be rumors going around that I took advantage of the desperation of the team captain," said Junior. Rainbow gave a relieved sigh.

"Oh my God! Gojira, you rock! Come on!" said Rainbow as she grabbed Junior's arm and hauled him up to his feet.

"Wait, now?!" asked Junior.

"Yes! Come on, we need to get practice in!" said Rainbow as she grabbed Junior's back pack and handed it to him.

"Go get changed and meet me out in the field!" said Rainbow.

"Shit. OK. I guess I'll see you guys later," said Junior as he left the club room.

"Huh." Twilight smiled as the room went silent.

"That was nice of him," said Erika.

"Sure was," said Sunset in agreement. Fluttershy cleared her throat.

"Did you hear about the guy that was hit in the head by a can of soda? He was lucky it was a soft drink," said Fluttershy. There was a brief moment of silence. Then everyone began to laugh.

---

Junior found himself making his way over to the soccer field. He carried his back pack over his shoulder as he was dressed in his gym clothes. He found Rainbow pacing about, as the rest of the team was slouched on the bleachers. She gasped as she noticed Junior. She ran over to meet him.

"Geez! It took you long enough!" said Rainbow in annoyance.

"Yeah, yeah. I'm here now," said Junior as he followed the girl back to the field.

"Alright, guys! We got our stand in! Gojira Takeshi," said Rainbow, drawing the attention of the team. The teens all groaned.

"Seriously?" asked a girl.

"You asked him of all people?!" asked a boy. Junior furrowed his brows as he suppressed a growl.

"Maybe this was a bad idea," said Junior as he was about to walk off. Rainbow quickly held an arm in front of him, beginning to panic.

"No! Come on, just be cool! Guys, be cool!" said Rainbow, looking back and forth from Junior to the team.

"Look, this is only for one game. Let's try to get along until then," said Rainbow.

"I thought it wasn't fair for there to be Transmutants in a game with non-mutants," said Junior.

"Well, that was until they changed the rule recently. Convenient too," said Rainbow.

"Cap, does he even play soccer?" asked a girl. Rainbow was about to answer but glanced at the boy.

"I know how to play," said Junior with a shrug.

"Great. We're relying on a rookie. It doesn't matter if he's a mutant. All of that brawn is only good for show if he hasn't practiced. He'll just drag us down!" said a boy. Junior crossed his arms.

"Hey, I can-"

"It doesn't matter! We just need him in to fill space. We'll just have to work harder to win," said Rainbow. Junior looked at her incredulously.

"Wait, but I thought-"

"Alright, enough fooling around! Lets get some laps in!" said Rainbow, prompting the rest of the team to get up and to start running. Junior merely looked to the tomboy in disbelief.

"Dash, I thought..."

"Look, we don't have a lot of time. I can't count on you to help pull the weight of team this late. I just need you to participate in practice for a general idea of our thing and to show up at the game," said Rainbow. Junior furrowed his brows.

"Fine. Whatever," said Junior.

"Alright, then get to running! Come on!" said Rainbow as she began to join the track run. Junior scoffed as he followed.

While on the run, Junior thought back to how his introduction went. It pissed him off to say the least. He knew that he wasn't Mr. Perfect or Nice Guy, but some gratitude would've been nice. After all, he was setting aside time for them. He had no real obligation to do this. Not to mention Rainbow's lack of confidence in him.

"Why am I here again?" asked Junior.

"Come on! Put your backs into it!" shouted Rainbow, leading the rest of the team on the run. Eventually they finished their laps. Rainbow had the team do their stretches. Junior was still ticked off about earlier. It was always his presence that seemed to be the problem.

"Alright. Now, I know we had a setback. But we can still pull this off. I believe in you guys," said Rainbow, pacing about as she looked to the team. Junior merely stood, arms cross and staring off into space.

"And I know that our stand in isn't exactly ideal," said Rainbow. Junior grumbled to himself.

"But don't worry. We'll get through it. Since it's short notice, Takeshi will be made goalie. So Thunderlane, you're on the field," said Rainbow.

"Got it, Cap," said a boy with very light blue hair, styled as a mohawk, but it looked more like the plume of a Spartan helmet, rather than the stereotypical mohawk that Junior was used to seeing.

"That work for you?" asked Rainbow, looking to Junior.

"Sure, whatever," said Junior as Rainbow tossed him a pair of gloves. She then pointed to one of the twins present, a girl with long hair and a pink bow.

"Flitter, you're on the other goal post for now," said Rainbow.

"Roger!" said Flitter.

"Alright, get into position! Takeshi, you're over there!" said Rainbow, pointing to a goal post. As the rest of teens rushed to the field, Junior just slowly walked over to the goal post. He sighed.

"Get over it, Gojira. You aren't here to make friends," said Junior as he stood at the goal, loosening his joints. It did make logical sense to put him in the goalie position. After all, it was late in the game. He wouldn't be reliable on the field since he's never actually practiced. Plus he was large, making him perfect for the role. This was just for one game, so there was no reason to bitch.

The practice went underway. The team split into two teams to simulate the game. They began to run along the green field, kicking the soccer ball along the way. Certain members ran up ahead for a pass, while the others attempted to sweep in to steal the ball.

Rainbow managed to sweep in and stole the ball. She began to kick the ball and gave chase, guiding it to Junior's goal. The boy steeled himself as he prepared to block the ball. He began to mirror Rainbow's movement as he moved from side to side. However, Rainbow kicked the ball towards Thunderlane, who Junior failed to see coming from the other side. Once the ball was in his path, Thunderlane kicked the ball into the goal.

"What the hell?" Junior bore a surprised look.

"Nice work!" said Rainbow in approval. Thunderlane grinned proudly. Junior bent over and picked the ball up.

"Alright, just toss it over so we can start again," said Rainbow. Junior tossed the ball to Rainbow, allowing her to take it back to the center. Again, the rest of the team repeated the process of kicking the ball across the field, all an attempt to score a goal. Flitter grunted as she managed to catch the incoming ball. She dropped it to the ground and kicked it across the field, prompting the others to give chase.

Junior sighed as he stood with a bored look, as the other teens fought over the ball. All the while, Flitter kept guard as the ball came her way. Eventually, the game was headed for him. Junior quickly shook off his boredom as he prepared to block the ball. A girl with light freckles, brilliant cerise hair with grayish emerald highlights reared her leg back for a kick. Blossomforth was her name.

The ball was sent flying towards the goal. Junior grunted as he leaped to the side in attempt to catch the ball, but it slipped passed his fingers. He grunted as he hit the ground hard, as the ball rolled back to him.

"Come on, Takeshi! Step it up!" said Rainbow. Junior winced as he stood with the ball, covered in grass stains. He passed the ball back to Blossomforth, who walked off with a scoff.

"Honestly," said Blossomforth. Junior bit his lip to prevent himself from making a remark at the girl.

Throughout the hour, Junior found himself struggling to act as goalie. While had succeeded in blocking a few attempts at a goal, he mostly fell over or missed entirely. He was bruised and completely dirty. These must have really been the best players that the school had to offer. That, or Junior was just a lousy goalie.

"Alright guys! Let's call it a day!" said Rainbow. Junior sighed in relief as he removed the gloves, wincing from the bruises that he felt. He began to pick up the ball as Thunderlane and a couple of the other boys walked by.

"So lame," said Thunderlane. Junior merely glanced as he watched as the soccer team passed by. Junior merely stood upright and approached Rainbow, placing the ball into a net she carried.

"Alright, not too bad for your first day. There's room for improvement," said Rainbow. Junior bore a suspicious look. He noticed Rainbow was looking away when she said that. It was like she afraid to give honest input.

"Noted," said Junior.

"Come back here immediately after school tomorrow. We need all the time we can muster before the game next Friday," said Rainbow.

---

Throughout the week, Junior had spent his time after school practicing with the soccer team, rather than join his club for their activities. During this, Junior has continued to play mostly the role as goalie, though it wasn't the highlight of his days, since he was mediocre at best with his performance.

Aside from that, Junior had to put a lot of focus into his homework. He knew that he had to keep his priories straight and have a balance of work and practice. At first, Junior was worried, but he has squeezed in more tutoring with Sunset to at least keep himself on track with math class. For now, things seemed to be going well.

After the school bell rung, Junior began to make his way to the locker room. He proceeded to change into his gym clothes, bearing faint stains. Laundry has proven to be a pain lately. Junior also began to place on the shin guards that were lent to him before the boy made his way outside to the field.

"Goji!" called a familiar voice. Junior turned to find the Friendship Club to be seated on the bleachers, waving to him.

"What are you guys doing here?" asked Junior in confusion.

"We thought we'd watch you practice. Offer you moral support," said Mosura.

"Oh. You guys didn't have to do that," said Junior.

"Eh. We were bored anyway. We thought this would be more fun," said Rodan with a shrug.

"Gojira! Get over here!" Rainbow called.

"Oops. Gotta go," said Junior as he jogged over. As he approached, he heard idle conversation from a few of the team members.

"I don't know why she's still bothering with him. He's just making us-" Thunderlane complained.

"Shh! He's here!" whispered Blossomforth. The teens went silent as Junior arrived. He noticed how they didn't so much as acknowledge his presence.

"Alright guys, you know the drill. Warm up exercises and let’s get to practicing those moves. We need to improve in our weakest areas," said Rainbow.

"Some of us more than others," whispered Cloudchaser, prompting Flitter to snicker. Junior lightly frowned as he heard this.

"Alright, let's move!" said Rainbow.

The teens went to their usual warm up exercises. During this, Junior began to reflect on the past week. What Cloudchaser said wasn't too far from the truth. He didn't seem to be making any progress with practice. While Rainbow had him participate in non-goalie related practices, he was expected to play that one role.

After the warm up exercises and the practices for self-improvement, the team split into two for another scrimmage match. Junior, as expected, found himself posted at the goal. The match began, and the players were racing for the ball. They swept and kicked it, moving throughout the field for the goal posts. Junior kept his guard up as he tried to anticipate the ball. But as expected, he began to miss the ball, over and over. Only once after every couple of scores did Junior manage to prevent a score.

"Ugh!" Cloudchaser groaned in annoyance as Junior passed her the ball.

"Dude, you suck!" said Cloudchaser.

"Shut up, I'm trying," said Junior.

Meanwhile back at the bleachers, the rest of the Friendship Club watched. They winced when Junior would fall to the ground in a vain attempt to prevent a score.

"Huh. He's not very good at this," said Rodan.

"Oh! He got that one at least," Erika.

"Yeah, but if they actually plan on making him the goalie for the game, it might be close unless he can improve," said Sunset. Twilight watched as Junior struggled to keep up.

She knew that Junior was a strong guy and could endure, but Twilight could see that he wasn't as fast as the other players. His reaction time was slower compared to the soccer team. Not to mention more coordinated. Junior may have been a Transmutant, but that didn't matter without skills.

"Hang in there," said Twilight to herself.

Junior grunted as he stood. He hissed as he felt a pain in his shoulder. He had just noticed it. As he attempted to sooth the pain by rubbing his shoulder, he heard a voice call out to him.

"HEAD'S UP!" Rainbow shouted. Junior brought his attention back to the field. Flitter was dashing to the goal, with the ball. Junior barely had enough time to react.

Flitter gave a mighty kick. The ball shot through the air, whizzing to the goal. Junior stumbled as he attempted to block the shot. As he tripped, the ball struck directly into his face. His head was forced back as he fell over.

"Ooh! That's gonna leave a mark," said Rodan with a wince. Fluttershy gasped in alarm as she found Junior, writhing in pain on his side.

"Oh my gosh! I'm so sorry!" exclaimed Flitter. Junior sucked air through his teeth as sat up on his rear. He heard Flitter gasp in alarm. Through his pain, Junior felt something warm and wet fall to his lip. His nostrils felt a cool breeze as his nose ached. The boy realized that he was bleeding. But his shoulder ached too much for him to care.

"Oh shit!" said Rainbow as she and the rest of the team rushed over. From the bleachers, the Friendship Club began to rush over as well.

"It was an accident! I swear!" said Flitter in a panic.

"Gojira, are you OK?" asked Fluttershy worriedly.

"Just give me a minute." Junior hissed in pain.

"Alright, let's take five. Get cleaned up, buddy," said Rainbow.

"Here let me help you up," said Rodan, taking Junior's hand. Once he hauled him up, Junior held a hand over his nose, blood seeping through his fingers.

Later, Junior found himself in the bathroom just by the locker room. He was rinsing himself off, as some blood still spilled from his nostrils. He winced as he held a paper towel against his nose and tilted his head back. He winced as he cupped his free hand over his aching shoulder.

"How bad is it?" asked Rodan.

"Pretty sore. But I should be better in a few minutes. This is me we're talking about," said Junior.

"Cool. I'll let the others know," said Rodan as he left the bathroom. Junior sighed as he removed the paper towel, sniffing. After tossing the paper towel away, he proceeded to make his way to the door. Leaving the bathroom, he found himself in a short hallway connected to doors that led to the gymnasium, the boy's locker room, and outside. He headed for the door outside and was about to leave until he heard muffled laughter. He opened the door and stepped outside. He found that Blossomforth, Thunderlane and Cloudchaser were standing over by a corner of the building. Junior shrunk back, leaving the door open just a crack.

The mutant's hearing was able to pick up the voices and what they were saying.

"Did you see how your sister popped him in the face with the ball? He went down like a tree!" laughed Thunderlane.

"It wasn't that funny. Especially since we only have a week left until the game," said Cloudchaser.

"Yeah. I don't know what Rainbow Dash was thinking. He's freakin' terrible," said Blossomforth.

"We'd be better off without him. He's just dragging us down," said Cloudchaser. Junior grimaced as he heard this conversation. He gave a heavy sigh as he stepped outside.

"Yeah, the guy's a knob! I guess all that brain power goes straight to his muscles! No wonder he's such clumsy-" Thunderlane fell silent as he noticed the two girls had fallen silent, eyes wide that they could bulge out of their skulls. The boy slowly turned to find Junior looking down at him, his brows furrowed and his eyes narrowing.

"Uh..." Thunderlane weakly smiled.

Junior was sorely tempted to just wail on this guy. His fist was clenched as he glared daggers at the boy. But, Junior merely scoffed.

"Gee, don't sugarcoat it. Tell me how you really feel," said Junior as he walked passed Thunderlane, brushing his shoulder against him. Junior just kept walking until he found his back pack by the bleachers, where the Friendship Club and the rest of soccer team stood.

"Gojira, are you alright?" asked Twilight.

"Hey, you good to get back in?" asked Rainbow. Junior said nothing. He instead picked up his bag and proceeded to walk away.

"H-Hey! Where are you going?" asked Rainbow incredulously.

"Home." Junior answered. He didn't want to remain here. After all, he was still pretty heated. Plus, he certainly wouldn't want to 'drag down' the team.

"Gojira?" Fluttershy began to grow worried. Rainbow grunted as she ran after the boy.

"Hey! What gives?! You're not gonna quit just because of a bloody nose, are you?" scoffed Rainbow.

"Go away," said Junior as he walked on. Rainbow growled.

"Dude, people get hurt in sports all the time! If I knew you were gonna be a sissy, then I would've asked someone else to fill in!" said Rainbow. Junior just glared at her.

"Then why don't you find someone else? I'm fucking done!" said Junior as he stormed off. Rainbow groaned as she watched as the boy walked to the parking lot.

"Fine! Who needs ya?!" shouted Rainbow. She sighed as walked back to the field.

---

It was the end of the day. Rainbow Dash sighed in frustration as she stood out in the front of the school. She was with the rest of the Friendship Club.

"I can't believe he bailed like that! Now I have to figure out what we're gonna do for the game next week!" said Rainbow.

"Yeah, I wasn't expecting that," said Mosura. Fluttershy bore a thoughtful look.

"All because of what? A couple of boo boos?" mocked Rainbow.

"Nah. That's not like Gojira," interjected Rodan. Everyone turned their attention on him.

"He always gets hurt to the point that he starts bleeding, even when we were kids. That couldn't have been why he left," said Rodan. Fluttershy mentally agreed. She saw that Junior looked angry when he left.

"Then why would he just leave?" asked Rainbow.

"I think I have an idea. Has he been this bad during practice this week?" asked Rodan.

"Well... Yeah. But he's getting a bit better," said Rainbow with a shrug, though her tone was unconvincing.

"Uh, huh. That explains it," said Rodan.

"Penny for your thoughts?" asked Sunset.

"I think it has to do with him being frustrated or something. I can't say for sure," said Rodan.

"Well, it doesn't seem to matter now. He's made up his mind," said Twilight. Rainbow sighed heavily.

"Thanks anyway, guys. I'll see you around," said Rainbow. She began to walk off, while the Friendship Club went their separate ways. Fluttershy walked after Rainbow.

"Rainbow Dash, maybe we can get him to change his mind. He lives next door to me, after all," said Fluttershy.

"I guess..." said Rainbow, though she wasn't feeling all too confident.

"Rainbow!" Called Flitter, as she came rushing over.

"Flitter? I thought you went home," said Rainbow in confusion.

"My sister went ahead without me. Did you say that you were going to Gojira's?" asked Flitter.

"Yeah, why?" asked Rainbow.

"Can I tag along? I feel bad about earlier. I can’t help but feel it was my fault he left..." said Flitter, a frown growing on her face. Rainbow looked to Fluttershy, who nodded with a smile.

Later, that evening, Fluttershy stood at the front door of the Takeshi residence. She began to knock, while Rainbow and Flitter waited. The door opened, revealing Miwa Takeshi.

"Oh. Hello, Fluttershy," said Miwa in surprise.

"Hello, Mrs. Takeshi. Can we talk to Gojira?" asked Fluttershy. Miwa cleared her throat as she turned to the hall.

"Junior! Fluttershy is here to see you!" said Miwa. After a moment, footsteps filled the air. Junior stepped over, his expression turned to a scowl as he took notice of Rainbow and Flitter.

"Oh. You're here too," said Junior.

"Yeah," retorted Rainbow, a hand on her hip. Junior stepped outside and closed the door.

"Why are they here?" asked Junior.

"To get you to change your mind about quitting the team," said Fluttershy.

"Not gonna happen" said Junior flatly.

"Goji, you can't just walk out on the team," said Fluttershy.

"Sure I can. I just did it. I'm not even an actual team member," argued Junior, crossing his arms.

"You agreed to help! That makes you part of the team!" said Rainbow with a glare.

"Oh yeah, says the one who apparently doesn't need me," said Junior with a scoff.

"I- Ergh!" Rainbow groaned in frustration.

"L-Listen... I'm sorry about hitting you with the ball earlier," said Flitter, fidgeting in place. "But don't stop because of-"

"You guys think this is about that? I'm not even upset about that!" said Junior.

"Then what?" asked Flitter in confusion.

"It doesn't matter. You guys are clearly in a whole other league. I'm just dead weight," said Junior as he turned to the door. Rainbow quickly placed a hand on the door knob.

"Whoa! Whoa! Who said you were dead weight?" asked Rainbow.

"Come on, we all know I'm lousy as a goalie. I've seen it on your face. You think I'm more of a detriment to your team. You're better off without me," said Junior, attempting to get through.

"Wait hold on," said Rainbow, her expression softening. "That's why? But you're making progress."

"Not according to the team," said Junior, looking away. Rainbow looked to Flitter, who slightly shrunk back as she twiddled her thumbs.

"We've sort of been... talking about him behind his back. I think today he caught a couple of members of the team," said Flitter in a small tone.

"Why would you do that?" asked Fluttershy incredulously. She was appalled that anyone would do such a mean thing, when Junior had gone out of his way to be of help. Flitter said nothing.

"Doesn't matter. They're right. I'm just dragging you guys down. As you said, I'm not an ideal fill in," said Junior. Rainbow sighed heavily.

"Idiot," said Rainbow. Junior looked at her in annoyance.

"Look, I know that I haven't shown confidence in you. But I do have it," said Rainbow.

"Yeah, right," scoffed Junior.

"No, listen. When I first started, I wasn't as good as I thought I was. It took a lot of hard work and commitment. I learned that you can't expect the best thing out there to fall into your lap. Sometimes, you have to work with what you got. And with some time, it could be something awesome," said Rainbow, giving Junior a smile. The boy merely glanced away, his expression still hard.

"We really need your help, Gojira. One less guy on the field means less of a chance to win. Heck, if we lose, I want to at least know that we gave it our best. What about you?" asked Rainbow. Junior said nothing. The girl sighed.

"Just sleep on it, man. See ya," Rainbow walked off from the porch. She continued on, leaving the property. Flitter turned to Junior, rubbing her arm.

"Um... I-I'm sorry. Sorry for talking about you behind your back," said Flitter, before walking off. Junior watched as the two left. He found Fluttershy looking up at him, a sad look on her face.

"I'll... See you around." Junior opened his door and entered his house. After closing the door, he looked through the peak hole, finding Fluttershy walking off. He gave a heavy sigh as he slumped his head against the door.

"Something the matter?" Junior shot up and turned to find his mother looking at him worriedly.

"It's nothing. I think I'm gonna head to bed early. Good night," said Junior.

"Sure. Good night, sweetie," said Miwa, watching as the boy left for his room.

Junior sighed as he lied down on his bed. He stared up at the dark ceiling with a grimace. He felt a weight on him. While he was set on his decision to stop helping, it didn't sit right with him. After all, he agreed to help Rainbow Dash with the team, though he wasn't a very valuable asset, since he was incompetent as a goalie. He certainly wouldn't be any better on the field.

While Rainbow was resorting to the option she had, which was Junior himself, she was willing to make the most of it. But even then, he wasn't appreciated and was basically just a clown to the team. Always tripping over himself like a clumsy fool. He had no reason to help people like that. Normally, he'd say 'screw them'. But what would that say about him if he were to just bail out midway through the journey?

The boy knew he couldn't deliver a victory to the team. But, he didn't necessarily agree to that. He agreed to help the team. Nothing more, nothing less. So whether they won or lost technically wasn't on him. Junior was a lot of things, but he was not one to go back on his word. Not for something as simple as this at least. He sighed as he began to draw out his phone. He went online and began to type 'Soccer goalie tips'.

---

It was Monday afternoon. School had recently ended. Rainbow stood by the bleachers with the team, pacing about in her soccer uniform. The rest of the soccer team were all slouched on the bleachers.

"He's not coming, Dash," said Thunderlane in exasperation. Cloudchaser shrugged.

"Yeah. Just goes to show that he was never fit to play," said Cloudchaser. Some of the other team members murmured in agreement. Flitter frowned as she sat in silence. Rainbow sighed.

"OK. Let's-" Rainbow fell silent as she found Junior walking over, dressed in his gym clothes while lugging his back pack. She smirked.

"You're late!" said Rainbow. Everyone turned in confusion. Junior shrugged.

"Had to sleep on it," said Junior.

"The whole weekend?" snorted Rainbow.

"Not really. But hey, I'm here. So are we gonna practice or what?" asked Junior.

"Alright! Get off your butts and do your laps!" shouted Rainbow. Everyone got up and began to run. Flitter passed by, giving Junior a smile. The boy merely nodded to her in response. Rainbow made her way over to the boy, crossing her arms.

"So what made you change your mind?" asked Rainbow.

"I thought since I already committed to this, I thought I might as well see it through," said Junior, nonchalant. Rainbow chuckled.

"Come on. Race ya!" said Rainbow, as she began to run. Junior groaned in annoyance.

"But you're already the fastest," said Junior as he began to run after the girl.

After the warm up exercises, Rainbow walked up to Junior.

"Hey, I was thinking we'd try putting you in the field today. Just to see if it works better for you," said Rainbow.

"Actually, I wanna give the goalie position another go," said Junior. Rainbow was surprised by this.

"Are you sure?" asked Rainbow. Junior nodded to her, a determined look on his face.

"Alright. Get ready," said Rainbow.

After a minute, Junior sported a pair of shin guards and gloves. He was posted at the goal post, as the scrimmage match began. A familiar routine of players fighting players for the soccer ball and moving as swift as the wind began. Soon, they raced for Junior's post. The boy relaxed his muscles, becoming loose in his limbs. His eyes followed the ball, while keeping note of his immediate surroundings.

Junior watched as Thunderlane raced with the ball. His eyes analyzed his every step and move. Junior took a breath as he kept a level head, standing on the toes of one foot. He began to anticipate Thunderlane's next move as he grew closer. The ball was kicked and shot towards the goal. Junior had swiftly moved in just a short moment. He lunged and caught the ball against his chest. Junior dropped to one knee, holding the ball tight.

"Nice catch!" called Rainbow. Junior stood and grunted as he threw the ball to the center of the field. Thunderlane scoffed.

"Don't get too confident," said Thunderlane.

The hour went by almost fast. Junior had managed to block significantly more attempts at scoring than normal. There were a few scores here and there, but it was though the previous experiences had been completely inverted. He blocked more scores than he allowed.

"Alright! Let's call it a day! Great work today!" said Rainbow. As the team left for the day, the tomboy approached Junior, who was chugging down water from a bottle. She was grinning from ear to ear.

"Dude, you were killing it today! How did you suddenly get this good?" asked Rainbow.

"Over the weekend, I was researching proper techniques to act as goalie. I asked Rodan and Angirasu to help me practice. I practiced reaction time, blocking, catching, anything to help," said Junior. He winced as he felt a couple bruises ache. Just a sign of the work he put into improving himself.

"That's awesome. You keep that up, we just might pull this off," said Rainbow.

---

The big day had come. The sky had grown orange for its sunset. Many people, whether it was students, families, school staff, were all seated at the bleachers. There was cheering as there was anticipation for the game to begin.

From the bleachers, the Main 7, excluding Rainbow, were all seated. With them were also Mosura and Erika. They watched as the opposing team, the 'Buffalos', raced to the field.

"Oh man, I'm super nervous! They've been training hard for this moment!" said Pinkie. Fluttershy sighed. She'd be lying if she wasn't nervous herself. She knew Junior decided to continue to help and joined the game, but she hoped that the hard work would pay off for him and the soccer team.

From one end of the field, Rainbow stood before her team. All were present and accounted for. Junior tugged at the cyan jersey he wore. Rainbow let loose a sigh.

"Well, today's the day. All of that time spent practicing has led up to this moment," said Rainbow, looking to her team.

"We're going out there against the best that school has to offer. So let's not disappoint them," said Rainbow.

"Yeah!" said the team.

"Now you guys know I hate losing. But I want you to know that no matter what, I'm proud of each and every single one of you," said Rainbow, smiling to each member. She held out her hand, prompting each and every member to place a hand over the other. Junior was last.

"3! 2! 1!" Rainbow counted.

"GO WONDERCOLTS!!" The team cried out in unison, throwing their hands into the air. They raced to their positions. Junior headed to his post at the goal. He could hear the distant cheers of the rest of the Main 7, Mosura and Erika.

"Knock 'em dead, Goji!" cried Mosura.

The game went under way. The whistle was blown and the ball was off. The Wondercolts dashed through the field, sweeping up the ball from the Buffalos. The crowd went wild as the opposing teams played for the ball.

Rainbow Dash managed to steal the ball and made a run for opposing goal post. She made a strike, sending the ball hurling passed the goalie. The crowd erupted into cheers.

"Go Dashie!!" cried Pinkie, honking an air horn.

"1! 2! 3! Who is running free?!" called a squad of cheerleaders from the sidelines.

"Wondercolts! Yeah!!" The cheerleaders cried, leaping into the air with their yellow pom poms.

"Not the best rhyme I've heard," said Twilight.

"Yeah, but those outfits are cute!" said Mosura, admiring the cheerleaders' uniforms. They were a cyan color with a white stripe running across their chest. The outfits fit tightly, showing off their fit forms, and the long sleeves complimented their arms. Their skirts flowed from their motion, as they inspired the crowd with their smiles and charisma.

"Yeah, they do look nice," said Twilight in agreement.

"Maybe we should try out," said Mosura in a thoughtful manner. She grinned as she fantasized catching Junior's eye in uniform.

"Please, I don't have the legs for that skirt," chuckled Twilight.

"AJ does," said Pinkie.

"Hey now..." Applejack blushed with an embarrassed look. Rarity pouted.

"Now I want to wear the uniform," said Rarity.

"Guys, the game!" said Sunset. While everyone focused on the game, Fluttershy was picturing herself dressed in the outfit. She grew red as she covered her chest. She was embarrassed at the thought of that with her bust size. But, she did like the idea of being out there, cheering Junior on from the sidelines. It was a shame that he was playing for one game and that the girl was so shy.

The game went on. While the Wondercolts managed to score many points, the Buffalos were catching up. Junior managed to block the scores as best he could, but they would manage to get passed him. These guys were a lot better than he thought they'd be. The boy was thankful that he managed to get better during this week. Otherwise, the Wondercolts may have been far behind.

Junior found that the players were racing his way. He let loose a breath as he loosened himself up. The opposing team came closer. The ball was sent to his goal, and Junior smacked it away. As it bounced, the players began to swarm each other for the ball. The ball was shot towards him again. Junior leaped and smacked it again. However, several Buffalo members swarmed the area, racing for the ball and began to send it back.

"Fuck!" Junior exclaimed as he continued blocking their attempts, but he felt himself growing overwhelmed. When the ball was sent his way again, Junior jumped to the side, catching the ball square in the face as he slammed onto the ground.

"Ooh!" Sunset winced.

The referee blew his whistle, stopping the game. Junior winced as he cupped a hand over his face. A few members of his team rushed to him.

"Crap! Are you alright?" asked Rainbow.

"Yeah. I'm good," said Junior with a wince. His nose slightly swelled as did hs forehead.

"Takeshi! Can you still play?" asked the coach. Junior nodded.

"Yeah!" nodded Junior as he stood tall. The crowd cheered as the game resumed, with the fielders back at the center. Again, the Buffalos began to push towards the Wondercolt's goal.

"Come on! We gotta overwhelm this guy!" shouted a player. Junior found that one moved in, sending the soccer ball back to him. Reflexively, the mutant reacted with the typical blocking, but he noticed how the opposing team was moving in with a few members. Just like before, they attempted to overwhelm him by making him expend his energy by blocking a ball that was quickly being sent right back to him.

"Wow, look at him go!" said Pinkie in awe.

"Go Goji! You can do it!!" cried Mosura. She stood from her seat, screaming to the top of her lungs, startling those around her, though the rest of the girls began to join in her cheer.

Junior panted as he stumbled over after blocking the ball again. It was fought over by the players until a player of the Buffalos swept the pole with a swift kick. Junior grunted as he shot back up, his hands raised. But the ball slipped through his fingers, slamming into his face again. The crowd all exclaimed "ooh" with winces. Fluttershy grimaced as the referee again stopped the game, as Junior was kneeling.

Back on the field, Junior groaned as he held his face. These last two hits came from powerful kicks. By now, his face started to swell up a bit as he felt a slight daze. Add that with the amount he's pushed himself during this game to prevent another score. He was met with Rainbow Dash, Flitter, the coach, and Thunderlane.

"He's not looking too good," said Rainbow.

"We still have a minute on the clock," said Thunderlane.

"Yeah, but he can't keep going! Look at him!" said Flitter.

"I'm fine," said Junior with a wince.

"Alright, Takeshi. I'm benching you for the rest of the game. Flitter, you take his place," said the coach. Junior stood as he shook his head, his face having swelled up more. One eye was squinted while the other was normal.

"I can still play! Just let me get a quick sip of water!" said Junior.

"I don't know dude. You took some nasty hits," said Rainbow.

"You had a good run, son. But now you gotta sit this out," said the coach.

"I said I'm fine! It's just swelling! I can still stand! Just let me back in the game, coach!" said Junior.

"Coach!" called the referee, holding an expectant look. The coach sighed as he appeared hesitant.

"Alright, get back to your place," said the coach. Junior nodded as he stood.

"You're crazy," said Thunderlane.

"Maybe," said Junior.

"Good luck man. Hang in there," said Rainbow. The rest of the players got back to the center. Rainbow briefly looked back, finding Junior to be standing at the goal post. While he didn't show it, Rainbow could tell that he was in a lot of pain. She was reminded of herself.

Rainbow recalled her days growing up. She was an active kid back in the day. She wasn't like most girls, who were mostly interested in dolls and less physically active games. Rainbow liked hanging out with the boys since they enjoyed the things she liked. Even when she got hurt, she didn't show pain or cried. She just got back up. Rainbow saw this endurance in Junior. While she never thought much of him before or really liked him, Rainbow had a newfound respect for him. Now she had to make good use of his strength the only way she can.

The referee blew the whistle. The players again scrambled for the ball. The crowd cheered as they rooted for the teams they were here for. The cheerleaders continued to rally the audience. The clock was counting down, as both teams were tied. Fluttershy grimaced as she watched Junior, who appeared slouched. She didn't like that he was still in the game. The girl hated seeing him in pain. With the clock nearing its final count down, Fluttershy dreaded him being allowed to be the goalie for the penalty shoot-out to break the tie. She just wanted one of these teams to win already so he could rest.

Back on the field, the ball was being kicked around by the several players. Eventually, Cloudchaser raced and kicked the ball down the field. As a Buffalo player headed her way, she passed the ball over to Blossomforth. As she carried it along, she was cut off by two Buffalos that got in her path.

"Blossomforth!" called Thunderlane. Blossomforth quickly passed the ball over to the side, allowing Thunderlane to continue to kick the ball to the goal post.

"There's only 10 seconds!!" Pinkie cried in dread, violently shaking Twilight. On the scoreboard, the digital clock was counting down. Thunderlane panted as he continued on. He found Rainbow cutting passed the other players, nearing the goal post.

"Go for it, Cap!" said Thunderlane, passing the ball. Rainbow found the world slowing down. She kept her focus on the ball after taking note of her position and the goal post. Then she took note of the goalie, who was on the far side of the post, opposite of the tomboy. Now was her chance.

Rainbow swung her leg, striking the ball and sent it racing. The goalie jumped for the ball. The girl could see the ball as it raced to the net, as the goalie was just inches away. She grinned as the ball slipped through his fingers, hitting the net. There was a great roar from the crowd. The audience for the Home team all shot up and cheered. The cheerleaders jumped and cheered, the Wondercolts ran to Rainbow Dash, cheering her name.

"We won! We won!!" cried Rainbow as her team hoisted her up into the air, tossing her up and catching her.

From the Wondercolts' goal post, Junior stood alone. He watched as the team celebrated, giving high fives, hugging, etc. He found Rainbow with a big grin on her face. Junior bore a soft smile as he watched from the outside at their victory. He walked over to the bench and took his water bottle. He found the Wondercolts rushing to the bleachers where friends and family greeted them.

As Rainbow was surrounded by friends and teammates, Junior lightly frowned. While he was satisfied with being able to help, the boy felt a void in him. Something he never really had been able to fill. The pain of his face was nothing in comparison.

"Time to go home," said Junior as he walked off from the field. He slipped away like a ship in the night. That was easy, since everyone was high from victory. So he continued on to the locker room alone. He began to change his clothes, not bothering with a rinse in the shower. Only his movements and locker were the sounds present.

Junior left the locker room, carrying his backpack over his shoulder as he was dressed. He gave a tired sigh as he walked.

"Hey!" called a familiar voice. Junior stopped and turned, finding Twilight jogging over to him.

"Yeah?" Junior answered.

"What are you doing way over here? We couldn't find you," said Twilight in amusement.

"I was just gonna head home," said Junior.

"Head home? You can't do that! We're gonna go celebrate with Rainbow and the team!" said Twilight.

"That's nice. Have fun," said Junior as he began to walk. Twilight bore a confused look. She began to follow him.

"Hey, why aren't you coming? Are you really hurt that bad?" asked Twilight, concern on her face.

"No. I..." Junior grimaced. He was beginning to feel a bit nauseous. He just wanted to go home.

"There he is!"

Junior turned and found Rainbow standing along the rest of the Main 7, Mosura and Erika. A couple Wondercolt team members, Thunderlane, Flitter, Cloudchaser and Blossomforth, were with them.

"Get over here! We're gonna go eat!" said Rainbow.

"I-" Junior grunted as Twilight towed him along.

"Come on!"

Junior felt his legs carry him along as Twilight towed him. He wasn't able to stop himself.

"I gotta say, you were one hell of a goalie," said Thunderlane with a smirk.

"Yeah, you were awesome!" said Cloudchaser.

Junior felt his face slightly redden as he was given praise. It was flattering, but he felt that he didn't deserve it. Nor the invite to a celebration to a team that he wasn't actually a part of. He found Fluttershy walking over to him, holding out an ice pack with a warm smile. Junior smiled back as she placed it on his swollen cheek. With a wince, he took the cold pack for himself.

"Come on, I'm starving!" said Blossomforth. Junior found himself led by the rest of the teens, away from the school. His cold heart having grown a bit warmer that day.

Author's Note:

The art in this chapter was drawn by FallenAngel5414 on DeviantArt!

https://www.deviantart.com/fallenangel5414

Comments

[DDDDDDDDD23]

so is this a fantasy world or a new story.

[Johng117]

10279559
no it's an anthology. It takes place in the past, between Junior first joining the friendship club, and before he gets banned.