It was a cold night. The evening sky was darkening, as a storm rolled in. The sound of hellish shrieks filled the air.

Junior found himself diving for cover, as a tree fell down. The boy's eyes were wide, his heart pounding in his chest. The child found a massive creature to be crashing into the earth close to him.

The creature was like a demon with a scarlet carapace, and four bat-like wings. The beast had a face that almost resembled the skull of a man's. Its beady yellow soulless eyes narrowed at the boy, as mist seeped out from crests that stuck out from the sides of the demon's head. A single tall horn protruded from its head.

The demon stood on a pair of hulking armored legs, and raised its almost skeletal arms. Its long claws carved into the fallen tree, while shrieking.

Junior cried out as he bolted from cover, just as the demon spewed a violet ray and mist from its mouth. The ray engulfed the tree, causing it to quickly decay. The child scrambled through the forest, as the demon shrieked, charging after him. It knocked down every tree that was in its path.

Suddenly, Senior, in his beast form, slammed into the demon. The two tumbled into a few trees, causing them to collapse over them. The dragon rose up and shrieked at the demon, which crouched to the ground, spreading its wings. The demon lunged for Senior, who had taken a fallen tree and swat it out of the air. The demon fell to the ground, causing the earth around them to shake.

The demon hissed as its horned began to illuminate. It lunged again, as a projection of plasma extended from the beast's horn. With a swing of its head, a long projection of plasma slashed across Senior's chest. In an instant, the armor and leathery chest of Senior suddenly split open. His wound bled profusely. Senior wailed as he stumbled back, clutching his wound, which stained his hands. The demon cackled as it swung its tail, where a pincer was revealed at the end. The pincer locked onto Senior's neck and slammed him to the ground.

"FATHER!" Junior cried.

Senior snarled, as a cyan light glowed from his dorsal plates, as well as the gaps in his scales. A loud whir filled the air. Senior roared as a bust of energy exploded from his body. The demon shrieked in agony, as it was burned by the dragon's raw power. It backed away, as the membranes of its wings bore burns, portions of its carapace were charred, and its pincer on its tail crumbled to ash. The demon shrieked in rage, glaring at Senior.

The forest had caught on fire from the attack. In an instant, the closest trees in the surrounding area had been lit aflame, which quickly spread all around. Senior panted, as his wound bled profusely. His body was covered in slashes and bite marks that were gained from this battle. He was visibly growing weak. That blast drained him even further. He turned to Junior, who stood in cover.

"Junior, you must go."

Junior was taken aback. He turned to find the demon attempting to recompose itself. While it was in no better shape, it still had a lot more fight left in it.

"Father, I can help you! Together we can beat him!" said Junior.

"No, I will not risk your life. Get as far away from here as you can. MONARCH will no doubt pursue. I will hold this demon off," said Senior.

"The Takeshi clan do not run!" shouted Junior. Senior held a bitter smile on his muzzle.

"That's right. But that was the old way. The way of the samurai has ended. It ends with me, my son. You may live as you choose," said Senior. Junior shook his head, his eyes watery. His mind was racing. He was no fool. He knew what was to come.

"Dad, please! I don't want to lose you too!" cried Junior. Senior softly smiled.

"Fret not, for death is a mere parting. I will be with your dear mother. We shall meet again someday," said Senior, turning to face the demon, who's armor began to suddenly regenerate. The pincer on its tail reformed. The demon chuckled darkly, narrowing its eyes.

"I love you, my son," said Senior. Junior's eyes began to run with tears. His father gave one final shriek, before charging head on to the demon.

"GOOOO!!" Senior shouted, as the two beasts collided. Junior ran from the area, but skidded to a halt once he heard the sound of cracking. He cried out as a tree branch dropped in front of him. He suddenly heard a pained cry. He whipped around, only to find the demon holding his father by the head. Senior groaned, the tail had a lock on his neck. The demon grabbed his head, digging his claws into his skull.

"Your line ends here..." The demon spoke in a rasped voice. It pried open Senior's mouth. The crests of the demon began to spark, as did its horn. It opened its own mouth wide and spewed a violet ray of energy. The ray shot down Senior's throat. His eyes rolled back, as the flesh around his mouth began to deteriorate. The ray soon pierced through his neck, eating away at the flesh and muscle, leaving only bone. The demon ceased spewing its ray, holding Senior's head. The mutant's eyes were cloudy. His neck had completely decayed, destroying all organic matter, except for the bones that held the head in place. The demon tossed Senior to the ground. It spread its wings and shrieked, claiming victory over the Transmutant it had vanquished.

Junior just stared, his eyes meeting with Senior's. The eyes lost their light. Soon, the boy realized that he was now looking at an empty shell. His eyes ran with tears, as the fire raged around him. The demon focused its attention on him with a hiss. The fiery atmosphere and light truly gave this creature its demonic appearance. It was though Junior had been dropped in the middle of the Netherworld.

"Don't despair. You will be joining him soon," said the demon, malice in its voice. Junior backed away fearfully, as the creature approached. Junior's sclera began to darken, as his heart pounded in his chest. his face began to contort and twist, as an inhuman grunt escaped from his throat. He felt like he was losing consciousness, yet his body still remained animated.

Suddenly, a beam shot towards the demon. It shrieked in agony, as its shoulder was suddenly covered in ice. It turned with a snarl, finding a couple of tank-like vehicles to be approaching. They bore large cannons, with satellite-like attachments at the tip of the barrels. A platoon of MONARCH infantry units arrived alongside them. Junior gasped, as he snapped out of his haze.

"Take him down!" ordered the commanding officer.

The tanks aimed their cannons at the demon, firing off their beams. The demon shrieked as its body was bombarded by the blasts from the cannons. The impact of the blast froze the creature's body. It began to slow down, as it attempted to flee, but, it collapsed, while still being bombarded by the blasts. It shrieked as its movements began to slow down, the freezing cold shutting down its motor skills.

"Son of a bitch. Director, Alpha has been terminated by Oni. We were too late," said the commanding officer, talking over the COM.

"Damn it. Salvage what you can. Make sure that you find Lucky Dragon and terminate him," said Onyx, over the COM. His tone however was that of displeasure. It was no surprise, since Alpha was their number one priority.

"Lucky Dragon sighted!" a soldier cried out, raising his rifle. He was suddenly shoved out of the way by Kenra.

"HE'S MINE!" The woman shouted, before aiming her rifle. Junior gasped, once the soldiers turned their sights on him. He turned to flee, as Kenra fired off her weapon at him. The boy panted as he bolted through the burning woods, escaping to what was unscathed by the flames. Bolts from the soldiers' guns shot after him. He cried out, as the bolts nearly struck him, only to zip by and crash into either trees or the ground. Junior forced his way through the bushes, stumbling. He grunted, as his body began to change form. Soon, he had changed into his beast state. While he wasn't as strong or large as his father, he at least would be protected.

HUMVEES pursued the boy. Kenra sat at the turret, a smirk on her scarred face. She began to fire off the gun, sending rapid shots of magic bolts. Junior cried out as he felt the bolts against his back. While they didn't pierce, they were enough to cause pain. He continued to run, as a second HUMVEE flanked the other. A gunner turned the turret to the boy, launching a harpoon at him. The harpoon managed to impale Junior in the shoulder, causing him to wail in agony. A tether was attached to the harpoon, pulling against him. The mutant stumbled over his own feet, tripping and falling down a hill. This caused the tether to tear, causing the HUMVEE to nearly crash.

"GET DOWN THERE AND FLUSH THAT THING OUT!" The commanding officer shouted.

Junior found himself tumbling passed trees and bushes, slamming down into a stream. He whimpered, as the harpoon stuck out of his shoulder, causing him to bleed into the water. His eyes ran with tears. All he could think of his father. If he had been stronger, and if he had been braver, he could have saved him. His father was gone because of his weakness. He ran when he should've fight. Now, he was fleeing like a coward. He was a disgrace to the Takeshi name.

"THERE IT IS!" A voice shouted. Junior turned to find a few soldiers to have made it down to the stream. He bolted up to his feet and ran, as the soldiers fired their weapons at his hide. The soldiers fired their rifles and shot guns at him, causing nasty stings. Junior felt like that sooner or later, these bolts will cause more damage. Water splashed from every step that was taken.

Junior fled from the stream, but found the HUMVEES to have been giving chase. Kenra fired from the turret, screaming. Junior winced as the bolts continued pelting him. A second HUMVEE arrived. A soldier carried a rocket launcher in his grasp. He fired at the young mutant. The rocket zipped passed the boy, missing him. It exploded against the ground, sending debris his way. Junior kept running. But, he found a large tree in his path on the road. He picked up his pace. The Transmutant latched onto the tree and mustered up enough strength to bring the tree down.

The HUMVEEs skidded to a halt. Kenra yelped as she felt herself nearly thrown out of the gunner seat. She found Junior to have taken advantage of this and kept running. She slammed her fist on the roof of the vehicle in anger.

"FUCK!"

Junior continued to flee from the area. He panted, having not heard a single rev of an engine, or gun fire. He may have actually got a moment to catch his breath. The mutant found himself in a clearing of the forest. He whimpered as he grabbed the harpoon that stuck out of him and yanked it out, crying out in pain with tears streaming down his face. He panted, dropping the harpoon to the ground and cupped his wound, looking around. His stomach went into knots once he saw that there was a cliff ahead.

"Oh no." Junior panted. He wasn't sure how much longer he could keep running. He was trapped. The mutant gasped once he heard the roar of engines. He found the HUMVEES to be rushing after him. They came in from all directions, closing in on him. Junior turned to the cliff, finding an ocean out in the horizon. It was his only chance.

Junior grunted as he mustered up what little stamina he had left and sprinted towards the cliff. He trampled the earth beneath his feet, nearing the cliff. But, he heard the roar of an engine at his side. A HUMVEE came racing towards him at full throttle. The vehicle slammed into him. Junior cried out as he was sent spiraling to the ground. The vehicles stopped. Soldiers emerged from them, aiming their weapons at the boy. Kenra smiled darkly once she raised herself up to the turret of the vehicle she rode in, gripping the handles.

Junior staggered to his feet, whimpering in pain. He found the soldiers and turrets all aiming right for him. Junior shakily raised a hand, causing the soldiers to tense.

"P-Please, this is a mistake," said Junior. The soldiers showed no expression aside from animosity. They weren't moved by the mutant's tears.

"Fire on my command," said the commanding officer. The weapons all cocked in unison.

"I don't want to hurt anyone," said Junior.

"Ready! Aim!" The C.O. shouted. The world around Junior began to spin. He was going to die here. Put down like a mad dog in the street. Junior suddenly felt a chill. The air had suddenly grown freezing cold. He froze, feeling a pair of hands on the sides of his head. Junior's brow twitched, as his sclera blackened. His irises became soulless silver. His head contorted, as a growl rumbled in his throat. Junior suddenly made a loud shriek, attempting to lunge for the soldiers.

"FIRE!!" The C.O. shouted. In unison, the soldiers opened fire on the Transmutant. Junior wailed as he was bombarded by the bolts of their weapons all at once. He began to back away snarling like a deranged beast, saliva flailing from his mouth. The soldiers continued firing, pushing Junior back to the cliff. One of the soldiers drew out a rocket launcher, crouching to the ground, as another loaded it.

"Rocket, going out!" The soldier announced. The rocket blasted from the launcher, soaring towards Junior. The rocket detonated on impact, exploding against the boy's chest. Junior was blown off of his feet, falling backwards. He was at the edge of the cliff, staggering back up. He snarled, as his chest gave off smoke. A ghastly wound was left behind. Junior stood in a daze as the soldier's ammunition ran dry. Kenra cursed as she smacked the turret, as it overheated. Junior's eyes rolled back as he fell back. The Transmutant plummeted down to the freezing cold ocean water below.

The commanding officer made his way to the edge of the cliff. The wind blew against him. He gazed down to the watery abyss, where the mutant had fallen. There was no sign of him.

"Target has been terminated, Director," said the commanding officer.

"Can you confirm kill?" asked Onyx, over the COM. The officer hesitated for a brief moment, before answering.

"Negative. Target fell into the sea."

"Then until we find a carcass, it's still out there. Sweep for Lucky Dragon. I will be sending the coast guard to assist in the search," said Onyx.

"Copy that. Over and out," said the commanding officer. He motioned for the soldiers to fall in, as he stepped away from the cliff.

Junior's eyes opened. The boy coughed up water. He felt a chilling breeze, along with the splash of water over him from the waves. He sluggishly picked himself up from the muddy sand. He panted, his body in agony. He found himself back in his human form, naked and cold. His body was covered in numerous bruises, and blisters. He hissed as he held his chest, which caused a sharp pain in his shoulder. He found a soft tissue to be formed on his chest, where the rocket had hit. On his shoulder, soft tissue had also formed. His body had regenerated the wounds, but he could still feel the pain of his injuries.

Junior gasped once he noticed a few boats to be running along the coast, approaching. Junior looked down to the ground, finding that the large muddy imprint from his previous form to have been washed away by the waves. Junior took the opportunity to flee from the area, disappearing into the woods.

A couple hours had passed. Junior spent the whole time running. He didn't stop to rest. No matter how much his body ached, or how tired his legs got, Junior pushed on. He dreaded that stopping would mean his demise. Be in the elements or MONARCH. Junior staggered out of the woods, finding a rural town ahead. His salvation was at hand. He had found civilization.

Junior began to rush through the night, making his way to the town. But, he slowed down, as he felt the breeze over his bare skin. He couldn't run around naked like this. Not to mention that it may have been unwise to remain here for too long. That left only one option. The boy needed to fill whatever needs that he could that was most important at the moment.

The boy sneaked to a yard, where a house lied. Junior began to sneak over to the laundry line, searching for whatever clothes that he could. Fortunately, there was a pair of shorts that was his size hanging. Junior snatched them from the pins and slipped them on, before sneaking away from the yard into the shadows. Junior roamed the lonely road in the night on his own. Many of the houses were dark, signs of slumbering residents.

The boy's stomach growled. He grimaced as he felt his gut. He noticed a small building ahead. It was a local restaurant. Junior jogged over to the building, finding that it was closed. The boy sighed. But, an idea came to mind. He ran around back, finding sets of trash bags to be resting on top of a wooden pallet. The boy made his way over to the bags. This wasn't the first time that he had to dive in trash for something to eat.

One by one, Junior tore open the bags. The boy grimaced, having no such luck of finding anything that he could eat. But, he finally managed to come across something he could eat. He found thrown away produce, obviously from the kitchen of the establishment. Junior began to scarf down what he could.

"Oi! What do you think you’re doing?!" A man shouted, having emerged from the back door of the establishment. Junior suddenly dropped everything and bolted out of the area. His mouth still stuffed with some cabbage. The man shouted as he gave chase. But, Junior was able to outrun him with ease.

Later, Junior found himself arriving at the steps of an abandoned temple. The boy passed by Shisa statues, which sat with barred teeth, as their large eyes glared at whatever wicked spirit would trespass. Or so as the legend goes.

Junior soon entered the inside of the temple, finding it to have been run down. Planks of wood were decayed, the ceiling had partially caved in. The shrine was in shambles. Junior sat down in the corner of this dark, cold place. The boy huddled his knees close to himself, his eyes burning with tears. He buried his face into his knees, weeping. Now, he was all alone.

---

It was early morning. Clouds filled the morning sky of Ponyville. The air was freezing cold. Junior found himself bundled in just his hoodie, which Rarity had repaired some time back. Junior sighed, as his hot breath appeared in front of him as mist. He looked up to the cold sky, a stoic look on his face. Junior made his way into Ponyville, which was covered in snow.

People were in the process of putting up decorations for the coming holiday. Hearth's Warming. Another holiday that was new to Junior from when he first came to Equestria. Junior gasped once he noticed Pinkie Pie, bounding through the snow with a cheerful look on her face.

"Ah man." Junior grunted, as he hid behind a corner. The girl bounded passed him, having not noticed him. Junior sighed in relief.

"Safe." Junior whispered to himself.

"Safe from what?" Pinkie suddenly appeared in front of the boy, hanging upside down from a flag pole with a smile.

"AH!" Junior exclaimed, stumbling back. He sighed in annoyance, glaring at the girl.

"Don't do that!" scolded Junior. Pinkie giggled. She gasped as the back of her legs nearly slipped from the pole. She tittered, having secured herself.

"How'd you even do that?" asked Junior.

"Don't question it!" said Pinkie. Junior sighed in dismay.

"No, I shouldn't anymore. Get down from there before you hurt yourself," said Junior.

"OK! Catch me!" said Pinkie as she swung her legs off of the pole, she hung off by her hands, but they slipped from the cold metallic surface.

"AH!" Pinkie cried. Junior instinctively caught the girl into his arms. Pinkie sighed in relief. She then smiled bashfully a she looked up at Junior, realizing that he was carrying her like a princess.

"Gosh, Goji. You sure do know how to make a girl feel special," said Pinkie. Junior rolled his eyes.

"Should I reward you with a kiss, good sir?" asked Pinkie, puckering her lips with a smooching sound.

"I'm gonna drop you." Junior stated flatly. Pinkie giggled with a snort.

"Just kidding!"

Junior set the girl down, allowing her to adjust her jacket. She was bundled up warmly, with a thick jacket, a beanie and a pair of cotton gloves. She sighed.

"So, are you excited?" asked Pinkie. Junior grimaced.

"For what?" asked Junior.

"For your birthday, silly! Twilight told me that your birthday was tomorrow!" giggled the Earthbound.

"Of course she did," said Junior. Pinkie took his hands, bouncing up and down excitedly.

"I have a lot planned! I have a list of guests that I'll be sending out invites to! We'll make this the most fun birthday you've ever had!" said Pinkie.

"Isn't it usually the person with the birthday who decides who they want to invite? At any case, I rather you didn't throw me a party, Pinkie," said Junior, pulling his hands away. The girl bore an incredulous look.

"Why not?"

"No offense, but your parties are... not my thing," said Junior, shrugging. Pinkie gasped in shock.

"How could you say that?! I throw the most fantastic parties in all of Equestria! Show me one other person who throws a better party than me!" said Pinkie, indignant.

"I don't doubt you are. And that's the problem. I was kinda hoping to keep to myself on my birthday. You know, kick back and relax. Maybe treat myself to a nice meal. Parties aren't really my thing." said Junior. Pinkie's expression turned to a deep frown. She kicked at the snow before sitting on the frozen steps to the building they stood by.

"Oh, OK. I understand. I'll probably just toss out that yummy chocolate cake that I made, Chocolate filling, chocolate icing..." Pinkie said, with a sad tone. Junior seemed to perk up at this.

"Chocolate?"

"It's really good too. But oh well. And I guess I'll just tell everyone that you aren't interested in hanging out for your birthday. All of your friends, who love you very much. I guess we aren't very good friends if you don't want to celebrate the day you were born with us," said Pinkie, twiddling her fingers, sniffling. Junior sighed in dismay. The girl sure did know how to play the guilt trip card.

"Oh. Alright," muttered Junior. Pinkie perked up.

"Alright what?"

"I guess we can celebrate my birthday together," said Junior in defeat. Pinkie suddenly jumped to her feet.

"YAY!" Pinkie wrapped the boy into a tight hug. Junior grumbled with an embarrassed look, as the girl nuzzled her cheek against his chest.

"You won't regret it, Goji! It'll be lots of fun!" said Pinkie, excitedly. Junior suddenly pulled away from the girl.

"Hold it. I have a few conditions." Junior interjected.

"OK!" said Pinkie.

"One, DO NOT, invite the whole town. Not half, not one third, not even my neighbors aside from Fluttershy. Only our friends," said Junior.

"Can we invite Rodan, Mosura and Angirasu?" asked Pinkie, eagerly.

"They are our friends, aren't they?" asked Junior, bearing an amused smile. The Earthbound squealed in delight.

"Number two, keep it casual. Number three, food and drinks. And I hope you weren't lying about the cake," said Junior.

"You have a sweet tooth?" asked Pinkie, playfully.

"Only when it gets cold. Number Four, no happy birthday songs. In fact, let's make singing off limits," said Junior.

"Aw... But's that's the best part!" Pinkie whined in disappointment.

"Pinkie." Junior said sternly.

"Oh OK. Can we at least play some games?" asked Pinkie. Junior sighed.

"Why not?"

Pinkie clapped her hands excitedly.

"I'll let everyone know! Oh! Do you know where Mosu, Rodan and Aangey live?" asked Pinkie. Junior's heart jumped at this.

"Uh- Don't worry about that. I'll let them know for you. In fact, tell me where the party will be held," said Junior.

"Your place?" asked Pinkie.

"Eh. Too small," said Junior. He also didn't like the idea of cleaning up his house again after he's just cleaned today.

"We can hold it the library."

Junior and Pinkie turned, finding Twilight to be standing nearby, bundled in a coat and ear muffs. Her nose and cheeks were red from the cold.

"Sorry, overheard you two and decided to drop by," said Twilight, sheepish.

"Are you sure?" asked Junior, reluctant.

"Mmhm! I'm positive! There's plenty of space. Besides, I'll take any excuse to hang out with my friends," said Twilight sweetly. Junior smiled.

"I guess your place it is."

"I need to get everything ready! See you tomorrow!" Pinkie suddenly bolted away, leaving Junior and Twilight behind. Junior sighed tiredly.

"That girl. I couldn't even say no," said Junior.

"I'm glad you didn't," said Twilight. Junior blushed as he saw the look that the girl was giving him. Something about it made his heart throb. It was the sweetest smile she has given him. Junior cleared his throat.

"A-At any rate, I should be going. I have errands to run," said Junior.

"See you later!" said Twilight, waving to the boy.

Junior made his way further into town. While he wasn't going to be able to relax on his birthday as he hoped, and avoid Pinkie's eagerness to throw a party, he was happy that the girl was willing to compromise with him. Maybe it might be a fun experience.

The Transmutant made his way over to the post office. He brushed off snow from his shoulders as he made his way to the front counter, where a green haired Earthbound stood. A three leaf plant making up the seal of an envelope, representing his Cutie Mark, was displayed on a patch on his uniform.

"Morning, Mr. Takeshi." The man greeted.

"Morning Shamrock Post. Just came to send something out," said Junior, reaching into his hoodie, drawing out two sealed packages.

"Ah. Gifts for Hearth's Warming?" asked Shamrock, taking the packages.

"Yeah, something like that."

"Gifts should be wrapped. We can take care of that here if you'd like. Just three extra bits," said Shamrock.

"Sure." Junior shrugged. He looked across the counter as Shamrock made his way to the back.

"Looks like the post office has been busy," said Junior.

"That's the understatement of the century. We might be working on Hearth's Warming Eve itself. I'm afraid that I have to break that to my daughter," said Shamrock in dismay.

"Well, at least mom's at home, right?" asked Junior, after setting down three bits.

"I wish. Unfortunately, she's smothered with work as well," said Shamrock.

"Oh." Junior said in surprise.

"Yeah. But, it puts food on the table and clothes on that girl's back. I'm sure she'll understand," said Shamrock, optimistically.

"Well, hang in there," said Junior

The next day had come. Junior found himself walking alongside the rest of the Mutant 4 into Ponyville. Rodan bore an eager look, while Angirasu was mildly chipper. Mosura however had somewhat of a grimace.

"You don't have to come if you're uncomfortable, Mosu," said Junior. Mosura shook her head.

"N-No. Sorry, I'm just still getting used to interacting with the outside world. I don't know if you've noticed, but I'm way out of practice when it comes to social interactions," said Mosura.

"That's what happens when you live in isolation for years," said Rodan flatly.

"Don't worry about it. It's just my friends that are going to be there," said Junior.

"Well, that makes me feel a little better. But even still, I wouldn't want to miss celebrating your birthday. Welcome to the 19th year of your life," said Mosura, playfully.

"He's in his prime, but is like a grumpy old man," said Rodan.

"Watch it, Rodan," said Junior.

The quartet found themselves arriving at the Golden Oaks Library. Junior knocked on the door.

"Come in!" Twilight's voice called from behind the door. The Transmutants looked to each other oddly. Junior shrugged, before opening the door. Once it opened, there was a loud explosion. Debris flew towards the Mutant 4. Junior's eyes constricted, as his adrenaline shot up. The boy suddenly dove down for cover, as the rest of the mutant 4 exclaimed with a start.

"SUPRISE!!" The Main 6 and Spike cried out in unison. Pinkie was standing inside with a cannon, as confetti fell to the ground.

"Oh gods, my heart!" Mosura held a hand to her chest, panting.

"Wait, you can't throw a surprise party when the guest of honor's aware of there being a party!" said Rodan.

"Yeah, we tried to tell her that. But Pinkie insisted that we did it anyway," said Twilight flatly.

"Say, where is the birthday boy?" asked Applejack, confused.

"What? He's right-" Mosura turned but gasped, once she noticed Junior to be on the ground.

"Oh gosh, Gojira!" exclaimed Mosura. She stepped over and knelt down next to the boy. She reached to touch his shoulder. Once she did, Junior quickly turned on his back, his arms raised over himself in a protective manner. The girl's eyes widened, once she noticed the boy looking pale. His eyes were wide and alert. His breaths were quick, and he was trembling. She's never seen such genuine fear in the boy.

The sound of the cannon triggered an old memory. Being shot at by MONARCH with their guns and rockets. He barely survived that encounter. Being so young and faced in such a dire situation left the boy traumatized.

"Oh shit," said Rodan.

"I-Is he OK?" asked Fluttershy, as the rest stepped out of the library. Worried looks were on their faces. Mosura took the boy's head and made him face her.

"Hey, hey. Look at me. Calm down. It's OK," said Mosura, her tone soothing and soft. Junior stared into her eyes and felt her warm touch, as he lied in the cold snow. The reassurance she gave and her comforting voice helped the boy to settle his breathing. The sounds of gun fire and booming explosions faded from his thoughts. His trembling ceased, and his breathing grew calm. His heart rate settled.

"Help me up," said Junior. Mosura and Applejack helped the boy up to his feet. Rarity began to pat away the snow that was stuck to his hoodie.

"You good?" asked Rainbow, worried. Junior nodded.

"Y-Yeah. I'm fine. Sorry I uh... I was just startled," said Junior. He looked to Pinkie, who held her hand to her mouth, her eyes wide in alarm.

"I-I uh... I think that in the future, you not use that thing for me," said Junior, forcing a chuckle. Pinkie deeply frowned, as guilt welled up inside her.

The teens soon were in the library. The atmosphere had grown a bit tense after what had happened. Junior was sitting, drinking hot tea. He looked around, finding that the library was decorated with streamers, signs and a few poster games on the walls. Everyone sat around in an awkward silence. It seemed that the incident had spoiled the mood. Junior sighed as he scratched at his head. He might as well have stayed home if he knew it was going to turn out like this.

The boy looked around, noticing that someone was missing from the party. Junior looked over to Twilight, who sat the table with him.

"Hey uh... Where's Pinkie Pie?" asked Junior.

"Hmm? I think she's in the back somewhere," said Twilight, pointing to another room. Junior nodded as stood up.

"H-Hey, you sure you're alright?" asked Twilight. Junior met her eyes. His stomach ached as they burned with concern. He never wanted to make anyone worry this much.

"Yeah, I'm fine. I'll be back," said Junior, as he began to make his way to the back room. He entered, finding some book shelves to be lined along the walls as well. Different genres were present here in this area. He found Pinkie, sitting on the floor in the middle of the room, alone. The room had a gloomy atmosphere about it. In fact, Pinkie herself looked gloomy, as her messy, cotton candy-like hair hung down, straight as though it had been drenched. Junior knocked on the wall, drawing the girl's attention.

"What are you doing over here by yourself? The party's in the main room," said Junior. Pinkie turned away, tracing a finger on the textures of the wooden floor.

"I don't deserve to be there," said Pinkie, her tone sad.

"What are you talking? You're the one who made a big deal about throwing me the best birthday party ever. Now you're just gonna sit it out?" asked Junior, incredulous.

"You didn't even want to have a party. I forced you. And now I..." Pinkie muttered, her eyes tearing up. She sniffled as she wiped her eyes.

"I was stupid. Instead of making you happy, I ended up triggering something in you," whimpered Pinkie. Junior sighed.

"Come on, don't say that. You're not stupid," said Junior, making his way over to the girl.

"I am. I'm a big fat stupid head that hurts her friends," muttered Pinkie, more tears falling to the ground.

"Don't talk like that," said Junior, as he knelt in front of the girl. Pinkie kept her eyes to the ground.

"Pinkie, look at me."

The Earthbound refused. She averted her gaze as she had this whole time. Junior sighed. He leaned close and wrapped his arms around the girl. Pinkie felt herself pulled into his embrace.

"W-What are you doing?" muttered Pinkie.

"Remember? You told me that hugs could help people feel better," said Junior, a small smile on his face. Small sobs managed to escape the Earthbound. Junior began to stroke her hair. The girl's tears soaked into his shoulder.

"It's alright. Let it out," said Junior. Pinkie continued to cry her eyes out, leaning against the boy. Her tears flowed like a water from a dam that had collapsed. With seemingly no end in sight.

After a minute of crying, Pinkie sniffled as she managed to settle down. Though, she hiccupped a bit.

"Better?" asked Junior. Pinkie nodded with a sniffle.

"I-I'm sorry, Goji. I didn't-"

"It's OK, really. To be honest, I had a bit of history having a couple of episodes in the past. Though they weren't severe like this," said Junior. The reoccurring nightmares were but a symptom of the boy's troubled past. He only hoped that there weren't any more triggers that could cause him to break down like he did before. Even fireworks were mild for him.

"Do you... wanna talk about it?" asked Pinkie. Junior glanced at her.

"Not really." said Junior.

"Oh. OK," said Pinkie. The two were in a moment of awkward silence. Junior sighed.

"Hey, enough of this," said Junior. Pinkie looked at him oddly, as the boy pulled her up to her feet.

"I thought I was celebrating my birthday with the best party girl in all of Equestria! You gonna show me a good time or not?" asked Junior, his tone more upbeat. The Earthbound's frown slowly inverted. A bright, beaming smile appeared on her face, as her eyes lit up. The girl's hair suddenly puffed back up to its familiar appearance.

In just moments, Pinkie burst through the door from the back room, with Junior at her side. This startled everyone in the library.

"Hey, why's everyone sulking? Let's turn those frowns upside down! It's party time!!" Pinkie cried cheerfully. Everyone was caught by surprise by this. Junior made his way to Rainbow Dash.

"Yo Dash. I bet you can't beat me at darts," said Junior, confidently. Rainbow was surprised, but her expression turned to a smirk.

"You're on!"

Twilight smiled, as in just moments, the atmosphere had begun to grow lighter. Music began to play in the back, while everyone enjoyed the festivities. She watched as Junior competed with Rainbow in darts. As far as she knew, the boy was never competitive. But, she was able to tell that he was working to lift everyone's spirits. To not worry. It was like him to not want people to worry. Just like it's like him to comfort Pinkie, whom Twilight knew was distraught over the earlier incident.

The friends participated in all sorts of activities aside from the darts. And Junior participated in all of them. One was Twister. Junior found himself on the mat with Angirasu, Rodan and Mosura. Mosura grunted as she stretched her arm passed Rodan, sighing in relief.

"Ha! I got it!" said Mosura.

"Left foot, yellow!" said Spike, having turned spinner. The Mutant 4 began to move their left legs to what yellow spot they could.

"Oop! Sorry, Goji!" said Mosura, smiling in embarrassment, her foot grazing against the boy.

"Hey if you're gonna play footsie with me, at least take me to dinner first," said Junior, jokingly. This gained a laugh from everyone.

"Agh. I don't know how much longer I can keep this up. I'm tapping out," said Rodan.

"Rodan, don't you plop-" Angirasu was interrupted as Rodan suddenly collapsed. His splayed limbs and the cluster of bodies caused everyone to collapse. This gained a laugh from everyone.

Soon, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy and Twilight found themselves taking their turn. The girls seemed to struggle more, and were stretched out all about. Rodan grinned as he watched.

"Best game ever," said Rodan. Junior chuckled.

"Rodan, for the life of me, I don't know how you haven't gotten your ass kicked," said Junior. Rodan leaned close, nudging his elbow against Junior.

"Real talk, man. You gotta admit that it's kinda fun to watch. I mean, look at these gorgeous babes," whispered Rodan. Junior sighed, a bemused look on his face. Even then, his eyes couldn't help but be drawn to the feminine forms of the girls. He especially couldn't help but gaze at their legs, as they stretched them out to stand on whatever color spot that was ordered.

"Well, I won't disagree with you," said Junior. Rodan chuckled. Mosura suddenly pinched his side, a disapproving look on her face.

"Hey, show some decency. No ogling," whispered Mosura.

"Ah come on. Like you never ogled a boy," said Rodan, crossing his arms. Mosura looked away, her face red.

The friends continued to play more games. From pin the tail on the pony, and a word game.

"So, any of you ever played 'I'm going to the moon'?" asked Pinkie. Fluttershy gasped.

"I have! I love that game!" said Fluttershy.

"I haven't. What is it?" asked Junior.

"It's a word game. You have to use deductive reasoning to figure out what words fit for a theme," said Twilight.

"I'll start us off. I'm going to the moon and I'm bringing a thistle," said Pinkie. Fluttershy hummed.

"I'm going to the moon and I'm bringing a cactus," said Fluttershy.

"Nope. Can't take a cactus," said Pinkie. Twilight scratched at her chin.

"I'm going to the moon, and I'm bringing a tray," said Twilight.

"You can bring a tray," said Pinkie.

"Wait, what?" asked Junior in confusion.

"Uh... I'm going to the moon and I'm bringing a plate," said Rarity.

"Nope, can't bring a plate," said Pinkie. Mosura hummed to herself.

"Oh! I'm going to the moon and I'm bringing a trough!" said Mosura.

"You can bring a trough!" said Pinkie, smiling.

"Um... I'm going to the moon and I'm bringing a wagon," said Junior.

"Nope! Can't bring a wagon," said Pinkie. Junior scratched as his head, while Twilight giggled. The boy grimaced.

"Twilight, I don't know this game," said Junior.

"Just keep thinking! You'll figure it out," said Twilight.

"I'm going to the moon and I'm bringing a tin can," said Fluttershy.

"You can take a tin can," said Pinkie. Fluttershy smiled brightly. Junior racked his head. For the life of him, he couldn't identify the theme. But, he felt like it was staring right in front of him. The most common thing he saw is that some of these things carried stuff. But, the wagon wasn't an acceptable answer. After pondering, it clicked.

"Oh, I get it! I'm going to the moon and I'm taking a tank top!" said Junior.

"You can take a tank top!" said Pinkie, grinning.

"Wait a minute, I'm lost. How'd he get that right?" asked Rodan, incredulous.

"The theme is the letter 'T'. Anything that starts with that letter is an acceptable answer," said Twilight. Pinkie nodded vigorously.

"That's right!" said Pinkie.

"I get it now!" said Angirasu.

"OK, new game!" said Pinkie.

After a couple of rounds of the word game, the teens found themselves in a circle. Pinkie set down an empty bottle in the center. Junior met her with a flat look.

"Really? What are we? In high school?"

"This is my version of Truth or Dare! You spin the bottle, and whoever it points to, they have to choose truth or dare. The one who spun the bottle gets to give whatever demand that they want," said Pinkie.

"Truth or Dare?" asked Mosura, raising a brow.

"Think of it like the King's Game," said Junior.

"Sweet!" said Rodan. Mosura grimaced. She quickly raised her hand.

"S-So, should we establish some rules?" asked Mosura.

"Ah come on. Let's go a little nuts. Besides, birthday boy here just turned 19. Let's have some fun," chuckled Rainbow, a mischievous smile on her face.

The bottle was spun by Pinkie Pie. The bottle spun until it landed on Spike.

"OK Spike, truth or dare?" asked Pinkie.

"Uh... Dare!" said Spike.

"I dare you to eat this cupcake," said Pinkie, holding out a pink icing covered cupcake. The little dragon snorted.

"Is that all? Too easy," said Spike. Before he could take the cupcake, Pinkie drew out a small hot sauce bottle. A sinister smile grew on her face as she poured it on the cupcake.

"With hot sauce," said Pinkie. Spike gulped.

"You can opt out. But you'll lose," said Pinkie, shrugging. Spike gulped as he took the cupcake. He quickly scarfed it down, much to everyone's shock. The dragon's face reddened, as his eyes slightly teared up.

"Spike?" Twilight called worriedly. The dragon opened his mouth and spewed forth flames, causing everyone to yelp with a start. The flames stopped, and the drake started panting, waving at his burning tongue. He ran to the kitchen, as the sound of running water filled the air.

"My turn!" said Rodan, spinning the bottle. Everyone watched as the bottle spun quickly. It soon slowed down, pointing at Angirasu.

"Truth or dare?" asked Rodan.

"Uh... I'll say, dare," said Angirasu, scratching his head. Rodan smirked.

"I dare you to kiss Fluttershy," said Rodan. Angirasu's eyes widened, while Fluttershy gasped, her face turning beat red.

"Rodan!" Mosura scolded.

"Ooh! I didn't think anyone had the guts to get bold with these!" said Pinkie, grinning.

Angirasu looked to Fluttershy. Their eyes met. They looked away from each other in embarrassment, as an awkward tension filled the air between them.

"Hey, you can just admit defeat, Aang. I guess you're not man enough to go through with it," said Rodan, smiling smugly. Angirasu glared at Rodan. That cockiness was starting to get under his skin.

"Oh yeah?" Angirasu turned to Fluttershy, who stiffened. The boy scooted closer to her.

"He's going to do it!" Rarity squealed. Rainbow stifled her laughter, while the rest of the girls watched in anticipation. Mosura however, watched anxiously.

"W-Wait! Angirasu, I-" Fluttershy whimpered as her face grew more red. Angirasu placed his hands on her shoulders. The girl gulped, feeling a haze over herself from the heat of the blood rushing to her face.

"I never..." Fluttershy spoke softly, as her eyes began to close. Suddenly, Angirasu leaned in. He planted a small peck on the girl's cheek.

"There," said Angirasu. Fluttershy's heart jumped in her chest, her haze growing. The feeling of the boy's lips on her cheek was etched into her mind. The rest of the girls looked disappointed, as was Rodan.

"You call that a kiss?!" exclaimed Rodan.

"Yes. You said to kiss her. So, I kissed her cheek," said Angirasu, nonchalant. Rodan glared at him.

"I meant that you should suck face!" said Rodan.

"Well, you weren't specific," retorted Angirasu. Rodan groaned in annoyance.

After the games, everyone had partaken in the chocolate birthday cake. Junior savored every bite that he took. The sweet chocolate goodness danced on his taste buds.

"Hey, Goji! It's present time!" Pinkie called, from the main room. Junior cocked a brow once he noticed that his friends had gathered, carrying some gifts that were wrapped. He swallowed the bite that he had taken and made his way over.

"Aw. You guys didn't have to get me anything," said Junior.

"It's a birthday party! You're supposed to get gifts!" said Spike. Twilight nudged him before sending him a look.

"Open mine first!" said Pinkie, before snatching Junior's cake from his hand, while switching it for a gift wrapped in a box and bow.

"OK."

Junior began to remove the bow from the box before lifting the top. He reached inside and drew out what was inside. He bore a flat look.

"A card would've worked too," said Junior, as he showed off a Membership Card to Sugarcube Corner.

"I ran out. Besides, you can't put this baby in a card! It's Sugarcube Corner's new 'Membership Card'! Just show us the card and you'll get discounts on your favorite treats at Sugarcube Corner!" said Pinkie, grinning from ear to ear.

"You guys started doing memberships?" asked Rainbow, confused.

"Oh! Could I get discounts on low fat products?" asked Rarity, curiously.

"Wait, does Goji even go to Sugarcube Corner enough to justify having a membership?" asked Rodan, scratching at his head. Pinkie smacked herself on the forehead.

"Ah fiddles sticks! I didn't even think about that! I just got stuck on what I should get him and I just-"

"It's fine, Pinkie. I appreciate the gift. If there was ever a reason to drop by there, then you just gave me one," said Junior, giving the girl a small smile. The Earthbound smiled brightly in response. While Junior didn't plan to visit the place on a regular basis, he wanted to show his appreciation for the girl's effort.

"Might I go next?" Rarity asked, before walking over, carrying a gift that was wrapped in wrapping paper. She handed it to the boy, who began to open it. He found a dark leather based jacket.

"Oh cool, you got me a jacket," said Junior, looking it over. Rarity smirked.

"Oh, darling. Anyone can GET someone a jacket. No, this was made by yours truly! Quick, try it on!" said Rarity, before taking the jacket from the boy's hand. Once Junior removed his hoodie, Rarity quickly began to place the jacket on himself.

"H-Hey, I can do it myself!" Junior protested. His friends looked on in amusement. Rarity squealed in delight once she took a step away from the boy, admiring his appearance.

"It turned out better than I could have hoped!" said Rarity. Junior began to test the motion of his arm. While it was a bit less loose compared to his cotton hoodie, he still had a good range of motion.

"Nice. Thank you, Rarity." Junior smiled. The elf smiled warmly at him. Pinkie whistled.

"Lookin' hot, Goji! You should really embrace that 'bad boy' side of yours!" giggled Pinkie.

"Bad boy?" Junior snorted.

"That is a cool jacket," said Rodan.

"He does looks hot," said Twilight, absent minded. This drew everyone's attention. The girl's eyes widened, her face becoming red hot.

"D-Doesn't he? I mean, leather doesn't really breathe, and it's kind of warm in the library!" Twilight tittered.

"Yeah, it is a bit toasty in here," said Junior. Twilight cleared her throat, while Junior removed his jacket with a relieved sigh.

"A-Anyway, this is for you! It's a uh... A book," said Twilight, holding out a wrapped gift. Junior raised a brow at her.

"Twilight, you're not supposed to tell me what it is," said Junior.

"I know. Just wanted to help you manage your expectations," said Twilight disheartened. Junior took the gift and tore the wrapping. A bright smile grew on his face.

"Oh wow! This is my favorite author's new book, 'The Dragon's Heart'! I didn't even know that this book was published yet!" said Junior. Twilight seemed to have perked up at this. In fact, she was relieved at his reaction. Everyone else was surprised by how the boy's eyes seemed to have lit up.

"Y-Yeah! I uh... Someone I know back in Canterlot sent me a copy before it hit the book stores!" said Twilight with a shy smile. Spike sent her an odd look.

"Wait, isn't that-"

Twilight quickly glared at the young drake and shushed him. Then she returned to her innocent smile.

"This is awesome. Thanks, Twilight," said Junior, smiling graciously. The girl blushed as she looked away. Her heart fluttered in her chest. She watched while Fluttershy, Applejack and Rainbow Dash gave the boy their own gifts. Although, Mosura, Rodan and Angirasu expressed regret for not being able to get him anything, Junior wasn't upset. He seemed happier that they were here with them. Twilight smiled to Junior.

"Hey, I was thinking that we'd all hang out for Hearth's Warming this year. We could all hang out here in the library again! What do you guys say?" asked Twilight, looking to her friends.

"Sounds fun!" cried Pinkie.

"I'll have to drop by a little later but I'm all for it," said Applejack, nodding.

"Count me in!" said Rainbow.

"Hearth's Warming? I've always wanted to celebrate Hearth's Warming! Can we go? Please?!" Rodan whispered, leaning close to Mosura. The mutant girl grimaced. She sighed, forcing a small smile.

"I guess it couldn't hurt. If you'll have us," said Mosura, turning to Twilight. The elf nodded.

"Of course!" Twilight turned to Junior.

"How about it?" asked Twilight.

Junior's smile faded from his face. It seemed to have darkened. Twilight felt a twinge of unease by the sudden change in his mood.

"Sorry. I have plans for that night," said Junior.

"Oh. O-OK. Well..." Twilight awkwardly looked to the side. Something felt off. Junior cleared his throat as he looked to the clock.

"It's uh... It's getting late," said Junior. Everyone turned to the clock as well. The time was that it the late afternoon.

"Oh, you're right. Let's get cleaned up," said Twilight.

Time seemed to have passed quite fast. With that, the party had ended. Everyone pitched in to help clean up for the day. After everything was cleaned up, everyone began to depart from the library.

"Bye Goji! Hope you had a good birthday!" Pinkie waved, before walking down the street. Junior waved back smiling at the girl. He found Fluttershy to be wrapping her arms around him. The boy chuckled as he hugged her back. The Valkyrie released him, holding a sweet smile.

"See you later, Gojira!" said Fluttershy, as she began to walk off. But, she slowed down once she passed Angirasu. She shyly waved at the boy, her face growing red.

"See you, A-Angirasu," said Fluttershy. The boy's heart skipped a beat. Her timid nature was just too cute. He chuckled bashfully, before waving.

"Yeah, see ya," said Angirasu.

Soon, the Mutant 4 found themselves leaving the Library, making their way down the road. Junior carried his gifts in a bag, his eyes staring straight ahead. Rodan stretched and sighed.

"Man, that was a lot of fun. Though, Truth and Dare left something to be desired," said Rodan, a flat look on his face.

"You could've dared a girl to kiss you." deadpanned Angirasu.

"Nah, that would've been weird. It's only funny and exciting when a third party makes two people participate in that kind of dare," said Rodan.

"Well, at least you have a line," sighed Mosura. She then glanced at Junior, who had been silent the whole way.

"Hey, about what happened earlier. With the cannon..." Mosura spoke up.

"I don't want to talk about that," said Junior, his tone neutral. The mutant girl nodded.

"R-Right. Sorry. It's just... Are you sure you're going to be OK?" asked Mosura. Junior sighed.

"Yeah. It's not as bad as it used to be. I guess that's the life you get when you get shot at as a kid," said Junior, his eyes downcast.

Next Chapter: Chapter 12: A Merry Hearth's Warming Estimated time remaining: 11 Hours, 35 Minutes