Yo! I am here!
Here's another chapter of the Rise of Ultraman.
As you guys read in the last chapter they are going to have the slumber party at Miko's house instead of Pinkie's.
Why?
You have to read the chapter and find out!
So here is chapter 13!
Disclaimer: My little pony Equestria girls Belongs to Hasbro and Ultraman Belongs to Tsuburaya Productions and any other media that is referenced or shown in this current chapter belong to their respective owners I do not own anything But my OC
Arc 02 Chapter 13: Slumber Party hijinks!
And the history of the Ultra.
After the "Party" if you could call it that, The Dazzlings had gathered in a secluded part of the school, about to discuss their next move.
"So, what's our next move?" Aria asked Adagio while Sonata was obliviously eating a taco she had picked up from the party.
Adagio smirked as she leaned against the wall, her arms crossed. "You already know our next move, win this little band competition and feed on everyone's negativity as we go."
"But what are we going to do about...Him." Aria said, narrowing her eyes as she was still skeptical about Miko Tsuburaya.
"Don't worry about him, once our magic is back to full strength, we will have enough power to put him under our control." Adagio said with a smug look.
"But back at the party he wasn't even affected by our spell, so how in the hell are we going to do that?" Aria questioned, her concern palpable.
Adagio chuckled darkly before looking out the window into the setting sun. "Oh don't worry about that. Obviously, he hasn't reached his full potential yet. And once we regain our full strength, he will be under our control, and this world will be ours for the taking. It's only a matter of time." She said confidently.
Aria glances at Sonata who is still blissfully enjoying her taco. "What do you think about all this, Sonata?"
"I think this taco could use a little bit more hot sauce," she said oblivious to the previous conversation, holding up her half-eaten taco for emphasis.
Aria facepalmed groaning at her "sister's" response. While Adagio half sighed, half groaned in irritation at the bluenette's stupidity.
Sonata blinked at their reactions. "Wait, what were we talking about?" She asked cluelessly, causing the other two to groan even more.
With Miko and the (Hu)Mane 7.
The group was in Miko's new SUV on the way to his house, when they first saw it at the parking lot, their surprise was palpable.
When Rainbow Dash asked why he got one, he deadpan and simply said. "So we all don't have to squeeze in like last time."
And so here they were on the road to Miko's house, while he continued to grumble.
"Honestly, I don't even know why you guys want a slumber party at my place, when you girls could do it at Pinkie's house." Miko said, trying to change their minds.
Unfortunately for Miko, his protests were countered by said pink haired girl. "But we want to go to your place!" Pinkie exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Besides we already had slumber parties at my house before and at everyone else's house, but Your's and Sunset Shimmer's."
His left eye twitched in irritation and once again he felt as old as his real age than his physical one. 'I'm getting too old for this shit.' He thought to himself.
Suddenly a thought came to mind and he glanced at Twilight from the rearview mirror. "Hey, Twilight."
"Yeah?" She asked curiously, noticing the curious glint in his eyes.
"You told us that you made a machine that opens up the Portal indefinitely, right?" Miko asked as he turned his sights back on the road, stopping at a red light.
Twilight nodded wondering where this was going. "Yes, I did. Why do you ask?"
"Not that I'm doubting you, but you did put an off switch to that machine of your's, right?" He raised an eyebrow at her.
Twilight blinked at his sudden seriousness. "Yes, of course I did. Why do you ask?"
Miko breathes a sigh of relief. "Oh, good. Just curious." He said, trying to keep the nervousness out of his voice.
Applejack however knew him long enough to recognize that look. "What aren't you telling us Miko?"
He sighed at Applejack's sharp observation. "Look, I just don't want some Idiot accidentally falling through the portal, Celestia knows what kind of mess that would make."
The group nodded in understanding at Miko's explanation, but the underlying tension remained.
To ease the tension Rainbow Dash turned on the radio. "Why don't we listen to a little music?" She said trying to keep the mood light.
Miko nodded. "Yeah, sure, go ahead." He said, grateful for the distraction.
The car filled with the sound of pop music, and Miko's eyes widened before he frowned. "Dash change the station, pop is overrated."
Rainbow shrugged and looked for a different station, eventually settling on a certain one.
[And now Sonic Fans, playing next is Live and Learn by Crush 40.] The radio's announcer voice filled the car as the opening guitar riff started to play.
Miko perked up and grinned madly along with Rainbow. "Oh, hell, yes!" He exclaimed before he and Rainbow hi-fived each other. Before he and Rainbow started headbanging.
The car filled with the sound of the high-energy rock music as they drove, and that's when Miko started to sing catching them by surprise.
[Miko Tsuburaya Singing]
Can you feel life, movin' through your mind?
Ooh, looks like it came back for more!
Yeah!~
Can you feel time slippin' down your spine?
Oh, you try and try to ignore!
Yeah!~
But you can hardly swallow
Your fears and pain!
And you can't help but follow
And puts you right back where you came!
His voice deep and gruff, yet perfectly in tune, everyone but Rainbow Dash stared at him in surprise and amazement as he belted out the lyrics to the classic song from Sonic Adventure 2.
Live and learn!
Hanging on the edge of tomorrow
Live and learn!
From the works of yesterday
Live and learn!
If you beg or if you borrow
Live and learn!
You may never find your way
Whoa, oh, yeah!
Rainbow smirked as she heard him sing this many times before, Twilight was surprised as she didn't know he had such a good singing voice and the others just nodded along.
Can you feel life tangle you up inside?
Yeah!
Now you're face down on the floor!
Oh!
But you can't save your sorrow
You've paid in trade!
And you can't help but follow
And puts you right back where you came!
Live and learn!
Hanging on the edge of tomorrow
Live and learn!
From the works of yesterday
Live and learn!
If you beg or if you borrow
Live and learn!
You may never find your way
Whoa, whoa, whoa
Oh yeeeaaah!
When hit a particularly high note, Miko's voice resonated through the car, causing the windows to vibrate slightly. their eyes widened in astonishment as the guitar solo started.
Rainbow not being able to contain her excitement anymore turned up the volume to the max and joined in.
[Miko Tsuburaya and Rainbow Dash Singing.]
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah!
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah!
There's a face searching far, so far and wide
There's a place where you dream you'd never find
[Miko Tsuburaya Singing]
Hold on to "what if"!
Hold on to "what if"!
[Miko Tsuburaya and Rainbow Dash Singing.]
Live and learn!
Hanging on the edge of tomorrow
Live and learn!
From the works of yesterday
Live and learn!
If you beg or if you borrow
Live and learn!
You may never find your way
Live and learn!
Hanging on the edge of tomorrow!
Live and learn!
From the works of yesterday!
Live and learn!
If you beg or if you borrow!
Live and learn!
You may never find your way!
Live and learn!
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah!
Live and learn!
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah!
Miko and Rainbow headbanged one last time as the song ended with a final electric guitar riff, leaving the rest of the car in stunned silence. The two looked at each other and grinned, the excitement of the music still buzzing between them.
"Whoo! Never gets old I tell you!" Miko exclaimed, his grin never leaving his face. Rainbow nodded in agreement, her eyes still sparkling with excitement.
The car remained silent for a few moments, the echo of the music still lingering in their ears, before Pinkie spoke up, her voice filled with excitement.
"That...was... amazing!" She exclaimed, bouncing in her seat.
Rarity nodded in agreement. "Miko, darling, we have heard you sing before in our band practices but..." She trailed off, unable to find the words to express her astonishment. "That was something else entirely!"
Applejack grinned broadly from the back seat. "Well, I'll be darned. Didn't know you had that kind of rock star in ya, Miko." She complimented, with Fluttershy and Sunset nodding in agreement.
Miko chuckled, feeling a warm blush spread across his cheeks. "Yeah, it's just something I could do for as long as I can remember." He said, trying to play it cool.
Rainbow snickered. "You should see him when he sings I am all of me and all hail shadow, he's like a whole different person."
"Come on Dash, I'm not that good..." He said, trying to brush off the compliments, but the blush on his cheeks said otherwise.
Twilight and Spike did not know he could sing like that, and their astonishment was written all over their faces. "Miko, I didn't know you could sing like that!" Twilight exclaimed, her eyes still wide with surprise.
"Yeah, you were awesome, Miko!" Spike added, his eyes shining with admiration.
Miko couldn't help but laugh a little at the overwhelming response. "Thanks, guys."
"Miko?" Twilight's voice was soft and curious.
"Yeah?" He glanced at her through the rearview mirror, still smiling from their impromptu jam session.
"Who's Sonic?" She innocently asked before the car jerks when he abruptly hit the brakes making everyone cry out in surprise.
Miko, Rainbow Dash, and even Sunset Shimmer looked at her in shock and slight horror.
"What do you mean, 'Who's Sonic'?" Rainbow Dash said with a mix of disbelief and horror. "You're kidding, right?"
Twilight looked around, noticing the shocked expressions on the Trio's faces. "What? Did I say something wrong?"
Sunset was the first to speak. "Um...okay, Twilight, why do you ask?" She said carefully.
Miko was frozen in his seat, his hand still on the steering wheel as he stared at Twilight through the rearview mirror. "You're serious? You don't know who Sonic is?"
"I just heard the...um Radio announcer? Mentioned the Sonic Fans before that song played. Who is he? Is he the ruler of a kingdom?" She looked genuinely puzzled.
Miko, Rainbow, and Sunset couldn't believe what they were hearing. "Sonic? The ruler of a kingdom? No, no, no!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed, holding her forehead. "Sonic the Hedgehog is a video game character, Twilight. He's like, the fastest thing alive!"
Miko chuckled. "She's right, Twilight. Sonic is a blue hedgehog who runs at the speed of sound and saves his world from a mad scientist named Doctor Eggman." He watched her in the mirror, her eyes widening with curiosity. "And that song we just heard is from one of the games he's in, Sonic Adventure 2. Which is a classic I might add."
Sunset nodded in agreement. "Yeah, he's pretty cool. And that song, 'Live and Learn', is from when he fights the final boss. It's like, the most epic battle song ever."
Twilight blinked several times as she processed the information. "So, he's not a real person... or a creature?" She asked, feeling slightly embarrassed.
Pinkie Pie leaned in from her seat. "Nope, but he's still pretty amazing!" She exclaimed, her voice filled with excitement. "And that song is totally rockin'!"
Miko couldn't help but laugh. "Yeah, it is. It's one of my favorite songs." He said starting to drive again.
"Mine too!" Rainbow added, grinning at her friend.
"But, What's a videogame?" Spike asked curiously with a tilt of his head, breaking the moment of shared understanding.
The three, groaned at this.
And so The ride continued with everyone explaining to Twilight and Spike what videogames were.
Soon Miko drove up the hill leading to his house. "I still can't believe you live all the way here Miko." Rarity said, her voice filled with amazement.
"I like the quiet." He said with a shrug as he pulled into the driveway. "And the view's not bad either."
He turned off the engine before he turned to his friends. "Okay, girls get your stuff and let's go. We've got a lot of work to do and not much time."
The group piled out of the car grabbing their bags from the back, their laughter and chatter filling the quiet evening air as they made their way to the house.
"Wow!" Pinkie exclaimed as she looked at the horizon, the sky painted with shades of pink and orange. "The view is super-duper amazing!"
"Oh, My!" Rarity gasped, her eyes sparkling at the sight of the sunset. "It's absolutely breathtaking!"
Fluttershy closed her eyes feeling the warm breeze, a gentle smile playing on her lips. "It's so peaceful here."
"Yeah, it is, that's one of the reasons why I bought the land and had my house built here." Miko said, his eyes on the horizon.
"Now that I think about it, this is actually the first time we get to see everythin'. Since the last time we were here, we were pretty... occupied." Applejack said, nudging Miko with her elbow.
"Yeah." Was all he said as he couldn't give them a house tour because of the group's first alien encounter and battle in the forest.
Twilight and Spike looked at them in confusion. "Wait, what? Last time? What do you mean by that?" She questioned with a raised eyebrow.
Miko and Applejack froze, realizing their slip-up.
"Ah...well... sugarcube, ya see what happened was- mmph!" Just before the blonde could spill the beans Miko's hand shot out and covered her mouth, effectively silencing her. "I'll tell you later once everyone's settled in."
Twilight's eyes narrowed but slowly nodded, still confused but trusting Miko's judgment.
Miko grinned nervously as Twilight followed the others to the front lawn before he removed his hand from Applejack's mouth as she deadpanned at him.
"Oh, don't look at me like that, I'll tell her." Miko rolled his eyes, crossing his arms. "Eventually."
Applejack pulled her bag over her shoulder, shooting a look at Miko. "You better, or else I'll spill the beans myself," she warned playfully, a smirk tugging at the corners of her lips.
Miko chuckled before he paced over in front of the group, reaching for his keys. "Okay, Twilight, I might've forgotten to mention something."
Twilight looked at Miko with curiosity, her eyes questioning as he unlocked the front door. "What is it, Miko?" She asked, sensing his apprehension.
"I got a new roommate so don't be surprised if something happens once I open the door." He said as Sunset and the Rainbooms gave each other knowing smiles when he mentioned his "roommate".
"Roommate?" Twilight echoed, raising an eyebrow.
Miko chuckled. "Don't worry, he's very friendly-oof!" He said once he opened the door before he was tackled to the ground by a silver blur.
"Miko!" Twilight gasped as she watched the silver blur pile on top of him. It was a wolf pup, its eyes a shade of blue. The pup looked up at them with a tail wagging so fast it was a blur.
He started to lick Miko's face. "Aha! Haha! Okay! Haha! Okay, okay! you got me!" He exclaimed through laughs as he gently push the pup off. "Hunter, Alright!"
Hunter's eyes sparkled with mischief as he jumped off Miko, tail wagging as he looked at the group of friends with a mix of curiosity and excitement. Twilight and Spike's eyes widened at the sight of the wolf pup, while the Rainbooms exchanged knowing glances.
Fluttershy being the ever lover of animals knelt down to Hunter before petting him gently. "Hello, Hunter. Have you been a good boy?"
Hunter's tail wagged more rapidly as he licked her hand. "Looks like he's missed you, Miko," she said with a warm smile.
Miko chuckled as he got to his feet, brushing off his clothes. "Yeah, he's always like that when I get home after school." He ruffled the pup's fur.
"Wow, he's gotten bigger since the last time we saw him." Rainbow Dash said as she knelt down beside Fluttershy to pet the pup.
Hunter's tail wagged faster as he recognized her, jumping up to lick her face as well. Rainbow laughed, her cheeks red from the affectionate assault.
Miko smiled as Hunter took in the attention everyone was giving him. "Yeah, he's definitely growing up fast." He said, scratching behind the pup's ear, causing him to lean into the touch with a content sigh. "Alright boy, let me introduce you to a couple of friends you haven't met yet."
He turned to Twilight and Spike, who were still standing at the doorway, looking slightly overwhelmed by the energetic display of affection from the pup. "Guys, this is Hunter. I found him when he was just a little thing out in the forest, and now he's practically part of the family."
Twilight stepped in, her curiosity piqued. "Hunter? That's an interesting name for a...uh, is he a wolf?" She tentatively reached out to pet the pup, who immediately rolled onto his back, exposing his belly for a scratch.
Miko chuckled and nodded. "Good eye, yeah I found him in the forest after his mother was...well..." He trailed off, remembering the tragic encounter. "Let's just say I had to step in."
"He's adorable!" Twilight exclaimed, her fears subsiding as she knelt down to give Hunter a belly rub. The pup's tail wagged in approval as Spike looked on with wide eyes.
After getting his belly rub, Hunter got up and started sniffing Spike, who was a little uncomfortable at first but soon warmed up to the pup's playful nature.
"Okay, let's get your stuff in the guest room, then I'll give you ladies a tour of Casa del Tsuburaya," Miko said, leading the way upstairs after closing the door.
Once they dropped their bags in a guest room the tour began. "Okay, there are gonna be a few rules, okay?" Miko said as they moved through the house. "Rule number one: No going into my room without my permission, okay?"
The girls nodded. "Okay, what's rule number two?" Pinkie Pie asked with a cheeky smile.
"Rule number two: no wandering off on your own into the woods after dark," Miko added, giving them a stern look. "After what happened with Hunter's mother... Better safe than sorry."
All but Twilight and Spike nodded solemnly.
The duo from Equestria looked at them in confusion and concern but chose to stay silent for now.
Miko shook his head of the dark thoughts before smiling and clapping his hands together. "Alright, let's get the tour started!" He called out, leading the group downstairs to the living room, "Well, obviously the living room first."
The room was spacious and modern, with large windows that offered a breathtaking view of the cliff outside. There was a large, comfortable couch and a state-of-the-art entertainment system set up against one wall.
"TV's huge." Rainbow Dash noted as she stared at the wide screen TV.
"Yeah, it's great for watching movies." Miko said, gesturing to the large flat-screen TV mounted on the wall. "And for video games too, obviously."
Spike's eyes lit up. "Video games? Like the ones you were talking about with Sonic?"
Miko nodded. "Exactly. And I have a feeling you're going to love it." He grinned, ruffling Spike's head. "Now come on, I'll show you the kitchen where I'll be cooking up some pizza for later tonight."
"The Kitchen." Miko announced proudly as they walked in. "It's where I create my culinary masterpieces," he said with a wink.
The Kitchen was simple but well-stocked, with gleaming stainless steel appliances and an island in the center. Pinkie's eyes lit up at the sight of the pantry, which was filled with snacks and ingredients that seemed to be organized with meticulous care.
"No smuggling snacks into your hair Pinkie." Miko said knowingly without looking at her.
Pinkie pouted as she puts one chocolate bar back into the pantry.
"The backyard." He said sliding the door open that leads to the outside area.
The backyard was vast, with a well-kept lawn that stretched out to the very edge of the cliff, where a railing kept anyone from accidentally falling off. There was a patio with a BBQ grill, and a picnic table that had a beautiful view of the forest beyond.
"The garage."
Miko led them to a large, spacious garage attached to the house, which contained a sleek motorcycle,his Camaro, and various tools and equipment neatly organized on shelves and benches.
Applejack whistle lowly at the sight of the motorcycle and car. "You sure know how to pick 'em, Miko. That's one fine looking bike."
"Thanks, Applejack," Miko said, his eyes lingering on his motorcycle with a hint of pride before he turned to the group. "Alright, now let's continue the tour upstairs...huh, I kinda sounded sleazy there for a minute." He muttered as an afterthought, causing a round of giggles to erupt from the group.
"Wow, your house sure has changed since the last time Spike and I were here, Miko." Twilight said as they walked upstairs, her eyes taking in the changes.
"Yeah, it's been a bit since you guys were her." Miko said with a nod. "I've had some renovations done to make it more...comfortable." He opened the door to his room.
A flat screen TV dominated one wall, with posters of various bands and a shelf full of comics, manga, and games lining the others. A master bed was in the corner, with a nightstand holding a lamp and a framed picture of him and Hunter. A gaming setup with a large computer and an array of consoles sat in another corner, surrounded by bean bags and a large, plush chair.
"And the last part of our tour is here." He said opening his closet much to their confusion.
"Uh, Mik? Why are we looking at your closet?" Rainbow Dash asked, tilting her head to one side.
Miko smirked at their confused expressions. "Because behind my closet is..." He pushed his hanged clothes aside revealing twin doors. "My Man Cave."
The girls gasped while Spike's eyes widened to the size of dinner plates. Behind the doors was a hidden room, walls lined with videogame and anime posters, one shelf filled with game cases both classic and new, another shelf with vintage and latest issues of comic books, manga and a bunch of action figures. In the center was another flat screen TV, only this one was bigger and had multiple consoles old and new hooked up to it. The floor was covered with plush bean bags, a mini fridge sat in one corner filled with soda and snacks, and there was a glow in the dark dartboard on one wall.
"Whoa." Sunset and Rainbow Dash breathed in unison as they stepped into the man cave.
Miko looked at them with a smug smile. "Impressive, right?"
"I know, I know, some of you girls aren't into these things, but I thought I might as well show you, since honesty is a part of friendship and all that," Miko said with a shrug, his cheeks slightly reddening under their amazed stares.
Fluttershy was the first to recover. "Miko, it's wonderful. It's like walking into a whole different world." She looked around, her eyes sparkling with interest.
"Holy-! Miko is that...?" Rainbow trailed off pointed to a specific comic book frame neatly on a wall.
Miko grinned walking up to it. "Yup, Action Comics No.1, my most prized possession." He said with a hint of pride.
"Isn't that the one where Superman debuted?" Applejack asked him with a raised eyebrow.
Miko nodded with a proud smile. "The very same. Cost me a fortune."
"How much?" Twilight narrowed her eyes, looking intrigued by the comic book.
"Eh, three million dollars give or take." He said, nonchalantly shrugging as if no big deal.
The girls and Spike's eyes bugged out of their heads at the mention of the price. "Three million?!" They exclaimed in unison.
Miko chuckled nervously, rubbing the back of his neck. "Yeah, I know it's a lot, but it's a piece of comic book history." He said with a shrug. "Plus it was worth every penny."
Sunset being a gamer herself admired the row of games, her eyes lingering on a few titles she recognized. "I see you're a fan of the classics," she commented with a knowing smile.
"Of course, can't go wrong with the originals." Miko replied, his gaze meeting hers, a silent understanding passing between them.
However he soon noticed a certain pink ball of energy was missing. "Wait, where's Pinkie Pie?"
"I don't know," Applejack said, looking around. "She was here a second ago."
"Wow! I can't believe he has something like this!" Pinkie's voice exclaimed from somewhere in the house before a loud engine roared to life, echoing through the walls.
Miko paled realizing where she was. "Shit!" He cursed before running out of his Man Cave and bedroom with the group following in confusion and concern.
Somewhere under the house.
Under the house, was what looked like a hidden hi-tech lair filled with an advanced computer in the center.
Pinkie Pie was inside the driver's seat of what looked like a bat-themed car with a jet engine at the back, bouncing with excitement.
However much to her disappointment, Miko jumped in and immediately turned off the engine before she could do anything. "Aww! Why'd you do that?" Pinkie pouted.
"Because, I'm not letting you take the Batmobile out into the city for a damn joyride!" He exclaimed panting as he got her out of the vehicle.
When the others arrived, they saw the Batmobile and Rainbow Dash's jaw dropped. "Dude, is that the Batmobile?!"
"Y-yeah, I guess you could say that." Miko stuttered, his cheeks reddening as the group stared at the impressive vehicle in awe.
She stared at said car in absolute disbelief. "That's not just a replica is it?"
"Nope It's the real thing, I made it myself," Miko said, trying to keep his cool under their gaze.
"Th-then are you...?" Rainbow Dash trailed off stuttering, her eyes wide with astonishment.
Miko sighed in defeat before he nodded. "Yeah...I'm Batman."
The (Hu)Mane 7's eyes widened even further, if that was even possible.
"Hah!" Miko's serious expression broke as he guffawed, pointing at them. "Gotcha!"
The group let out a collective sigh of relief, some of them chuckling. "You had us for a second there," Rarity said, fanning herself dramatically.
"Yeah, No, This is just a replica I made myself as a hobby." Miko said with a chuckle, "But I can see why you'd think that."
Even though she was wondering who Batman was, Twilight took the facility. "Miko what is this place?" She asked with wide eyes.
Miko cleared his throat awkwardly. "Well, this...is my lair, here where I train to hone my powers or study them." He said sheepishly.
"Wow, Miko, you've really gone all out here." Applejack said, looking around at the high-tech equipment with a mix of awe and concern.
Miko chuckled, his face turning a shade of red. "Thanks, Applejack. It's just a hobby, really. A way to stay prepared, you know?"
Twilight stepped closer to one of the screens, her curiosity piqued. "What exactly are you preparing for?"
"Aaah!" Before Miko could answer Twilight's question Rarity screamed, pointing at something contained in a glass case. "Is that what I think it is?" She stuttered out in shock.
"Oooh, I really should've hid that." Miko said with a wince, walking over to the glass case. Inside was a big skull, it was saurian like with a big horn on top of its head curved forward.
The others looked at the skull in complete shock, while Twilight and Spike had a look of mortification on their faces. "What...what is that?" Twilight asked, her voice trembling slightly.
"Miko, is that...?" Sunset Shimmer's voice trailed off as she stared at the skull in the glass case, her eyes wide with disbelief.
Miko closed his eyes, taking a breath, nodding. "Yes, it's Black King. Or whatever is left of it."
Sunset and Pinkie exchanged shocked glances, while Applejack, Rarity, and Fluttershy, took a step back, their expressions a mix of horror and shock.
Rainbow turned to Miko and gulped. "Why...?"
Miko sighed. "The day after the battle, I went back into the forest and found some remains, I...I couldn't leave it there," he explained, his eyes lingering on the skull. "It's too dangerous if it falls into the wrong hands."
Sunset nodded, her gaze still glued to the grisly trophy. "So, you brought it back here to study it?"
"Yeah, so we can be ready." He said, "Just in case." He added with a shrug trying to play it cool, but the seriousness in his tone betrayed his concern.
"Miko, what is Black King?" Twilight asked, narrowing her eyes at him as Spike took a step back.
Miko looked at the Princess before turning to the other girls having a silent conversation before they all nodded. "Twilight, take a seat. There is something you should know..."
And so Miko proceeded to tell Twilight what happened months prior since she's been gone, how he found Hunter in the forest and the body of his mother who died from her injuries, how he went to Investigate on what caused it into the forest with the rest of the girls following him despite his protests, at this he gave said girls a look causing them to give various reactions of regret, guilt, and embarrassment.
He continued how they found Black King and fought it with a little help from the girls and finally killed it, receiving a gasp of horror from the princess and her dog companion.
And finally taking the girls back to their respective homes with all of them agreeing to keep what happened a secret everyone including their families.
"And that's about it." Miko finished his story, with the girls nodding as they all looked at Twilight, who was now sitting in the computer chair, her eyes wide in shock.
Twilight took a moment to process everything she had just heard. "Wow... I had no idea you guys went through something like that." She said finally, looking up at Miko. "What happened to the...rest of the remains of Black King?"
"Well, besides the skull." He casually thumbed the skull for emphasis. "Whatever remains I found I burned to ashes and scattered them into sea"
Spike looked like he was about to pass out. "Whoa, whoa, whoa! You killed something that big and powerful?!"
Miko shrugged as if it was no big deal. "Well, it was either kill it, or let it reach the city and cause a ton of casualties." He said with a sigh, "Besides, it's not like I enjoyed it." He added looking at the skull with sadness in his eyes.
"But why did you keep the skull?" Twilight asked, her voice filled with concern.
"Oh, that, I had just finished studying it and using it for something today, I was planning to incinerate it after school, but it slipped my mind when the Dazzlings showed up." Miko said before pressing a few keys on the computer next to him and a compartment opened up in the wall, revealing a small incinerator. "But I guess now's as good a time as any." He picked up the skull, the weight surprising Twilight and Spike who had never seen a skull that size before, and placed it inside the compartment. With a press of a button, the compartment door shut with a hiss and a moment later, the skull was gone, reduced to ash.
"And done!" Miko said, turning around and slapping the side of the computer console with a satisfied look.
"Wait a minute, what did you use the skull for exactly?" Sunset asked, her curiosity getting the better of her.
"This." He said, pressing a few keys before a radar showing the earth appeared on the computer screen.
"Oooh!" Pinkie exclaimed in wonder as the radar came to life. "What's that?" She asked as the rest looked at the screen with intrigue.
"A program my girlfriend helped me make, after researching Kaiju Biology with the remains of Black King, we were able to create a long range scanner that detects Kaiju activity anywhere on Earth or..." After a few clicks the Radar zoomed out to show the rest of the nearby planets. "... outside it, using one of my satellites" He said with a smirk.
The group looked at each other in amazement before turning back to Miko.
"Wait, you have a satellite?" Rainbow asked, bewildered that her best friend owns a satellite.
Miko shrugged. "Eh, I have six." He said casually as if it was no big deal.
The group's minus Twilight's and Spike's jaw dropped in utter shock at Miko's revelation.
Rarity dramatically fainted in Applejack's arms realizing how rich her friend was.
"Dude! How in the hell did you have six satellites?!" Rainbow exclaimed, her eyes wide with astonishment.
Miko nodded with a chuckle. "Dash, buddy." He wrapped an arm around her shoulders, still nodding. "You don't want to know." He said, narrowing his eyes and smirking.
"Umm, has it found any Kaiju yet?" Fluttershy asked, her voice quivering slightly.
"Luckily? No, just a few annoying false alarms for the past few weeks." He said before closing the scanner and looked at his friends. "Now before we go back to the house and eat dinner while brainstorming for the counter-spell, Twilight is there anything you and Spike want to tell me, because ever since you came back I get the feeling you want to tell me something."
Twilight and Spike exchanged a look before Twilight nodded. "Actually, yes." She took a deep breath, "We learned something in Equestria that might be of interest to you."
And so Twilight proceeded to explain how she learned more of the Giant of Light and the Light of Hope from Princess Celestia and Princess Luna.
How a giant monster appeared in Equestria before the alicorn sisters took the throne and nearly destroyed the kingdom until the Giant of Light appeared and vanquished the monster and returned to the stars.
Including when Celestia and Luna informed her and her friends about the Light of Hope being an unknown force that has existed long before Equestria's foundation.
"And that when I told them about The Giant of Light within you and your connection to the Light of Hope, Princess Celestia believes you might be the Giant of Light reincarnated." Twilight finished, a serious expression on her face with Spike nodding.
Everyone looked at the two Equestrians in complete shock at this information.
Miko however had a look of contemplation on his face, his arms crossed leaning back on the computer.
"Wait, if Princess Celestia knew about this, how come they never told anyone?" Sunset Shimmer questioned, her brow furrowed in confusion.
"Celestia and Luna agreed that it should be kept secret because they feared that knowledge of such power could be misinterpreted or worse, sought after by those with malicious intent." Twilight explained, her eyes on Miko as she spoke.
"Jeez, things get crazier and crazier around you huh, Miko?" Rainbow Dash said looking at the others, when she didn't get a response she turned to him. "Miko?"
Miko didn't hear her as he was too deep in thought, his mind going back to one of his previous conversations with the Giant of Light.
Flashback
One night Miko was in his bedroom having another meditation trying to enter his mindscape.
When he opened his eyes, he sees that he was once again in the white void, he stood up and looked around trying to find the only one who could answer his questions.
Just then, with a shimmer of light the Giant of Light appeared but instead of it's natural size of fifty feet it was currently in human size.
"Hello Miko, is there something troubling you?" The Giant of Light's voice was gentle yet powerful, echoing slightly in the vast emptiness. Miko felt his heart race as he took a deep breath, trying to gather his thoughts.
"Aibou, there is something I want to ask you." He said looking at The Giant of Light who was currently in human size.
"Yes, what is it Miko?" The Giant asked looking at him wonderingly.
Miko took another deep breath before speaking as he looked into the eyes of his partner. "Just before I was reincarnated into this universe...of all people, why did you fuse with me?" He finally asked question that had been on his mind for a long time.
The Giant of Light, stayed silent for a few minutes as if contemplating Miko's question. The air was thick with anticipation as Miko waited for the answer that could potentially change his understanding of his existence. Finally, the Giant spoke.
"Miko, long before you were born, I was sent to on a mission from my home world to observe your planet." He began, "I watched over your people, your struggles, and your triumphs. But even then you humans were..." He paused, searching for the right words, "...flawed. Innovative, yet destructive. You had so much potential, but you often squandered it with greed and conflict."
Miko nodded a small frown. "Oh, I agree with you there," he said, thinking back to his past life and the chaos that often plagued humanity.
"For centuries, I have watched civilizations rise and fall," the Giant of Light continued, his gaze becoming distant as he recounted his observations. "But then you were born, and for reasons I did not understand you Intrigued me. So I decided to observe you, to understand you, but as you grew up..."
"Yeah, I wasn't exactly the best person in my past life," Miko murmured, feeling a twinge of self-reflection. "But why choose me specifically?"
"I chose you, the day you died..." The Giant of Light spoke with a solemnity that seemed to weigh down on the very fabric of the mindscape.
"The car accident..." Miko whispered, his mind reeling with memories of his violent departure from his past life. "I was just trying to help."
"You did not think, your body moved before you could think," the Giant of Light corrected gently. "You Instinctively risked your life in order to save a life. That selflessness, that courage, it was then I knew I couldn't let you die."
"And yet here we are in another world," Miko said, breaking the silence that had fallen between them.
"Yes by the time I fused with you the reincarnation process had already begun." The Giant of Light said, his human-sized form radiating warmth and compassion. "And now here we are in the MLP universe as you would call it."
"Yeah, I'm guessing our fusion is the reason why I still remember everything," Miko said with a smirk.
The Giant nodded with a chuckle. "Yes, but it was not on purpose, during that time I knew it was not the right time to make contact with you. So I did nothing but patiently observed you're second life through your eyes."
"Okay, that answers that, but I have one more question, How am I able to use your powers? I thought a human fused with an Ultra could only use their power once they transformed." Miko's curiosity grew as he thought about the various abilities he had demonstrated without transforming.
The Giant of Light thought for a minute before answering. "I do not know myself Miko. It is possible that the reason why you have your abilities is the result of our prolonged fusion. Remember, Ultra have never fused with a human for as long as we have."
Miko nodded, contemplating this explanation. "Okay that's a good yet confusing point," he said with a chuckle, "but I'll take it. And The light of Hope?"
Unfortunately his partner shook his head. "Unfortunately I do not know how it came to be, aside from knowing what it is called and that it is a power equal to the Elements of Harmony." The Giant of Light said, almost sheepishly.
Miko sighed and looked down at his hands. processing the information. "So, I've got this incredible power, and I'm not even sure how it works," he murmured to himself. "Hell, it's possible I got it at some point when I...we were being reincarnated."
The Giant of Light laid a comforting hand on Miko's shoulder. "Do not worry, together we will figure it out. And we will discover the extent of your abilities in time."
"Thanks Aibou. One last question." Miko raised his eyes to meet the Giant's gaze. "Sometime in the future...are you going to separate from me? Can you?"
The Giant of Light's smile dimmed a bit. "Miko... there is something you should know."
Miko looked up, a flicker of concern crossing his face. "What is it?"
"The kind of fusion I used in order to save you is not temporary," The Giant of Light began, his voice filled with a solemn gravity that made Miko's stomach twist. "In order to save you, I had to give you my life force."
Miko's eyes widened as he took in the implication of his partner's words. "What's that supposed to mean?" he asked, his voice wavering slightly.
"It means we are connected indefinitely, as if you were to die now, I would as well." The Giant of Light said, his hand still resting comfortably on Miko's shoulder. "Our life forces are intertwined. I cannot leave your body without causing your death and vice versa."
"That's a...very painful thought, if something were to say rip you out of me or something."
At the thought both shuddered almost comically. The room was silent for a moment as Miko digested the gravity of their situation. "So, I guess we're stuck with each other, huh." He said with small grin holding out his fist.
The Giant of Light chuckled and bumped his fist gently, his hand easily enveloping Miko's. "Indeed, we are, my friend."
They both laughed, breaking the tension in the air. "Well, at least we get along," Miko said, trying to lighten the mood. "So mind telling me more about the Land of Light?"
The Giant of Light's eyes lit up with excitement. "Of course."
Flashback end
Miko narrowed his eyes at the memory wondering if there was a connection between his partner and the Giant from Equestria.
'Partner, are you the Giant of Light in Equestria's legends.' He asked The Giant of Light using their mental connection.
'No Miko, I am not, however, years ago back on my planet I had overheard a rumor that an ultra saved a world inhabited by sentient ponies." the Giant of Light said.
'And the Kaiju, from the way Twilight described it, It's possible that it's an EX - Red King.' Miko mentally replied.
'Indeed.' was all the Giant said before Miko cut off their mental connection.
"Miko!" He was snapped out of his thoughts from a small shove from Rainbow. He turned to her, his eyes focusing on her again. "You okay?"
"Huh? What?" He blinked rapidly before shaking his head. "Oh, yeah, I'm okay." He rubbed his temples. "And Twilight no offense, While I believe you in the part where a Giant of Light appeared in Equestria, but the reincarnation part?"
"It's a lot to take in, I know." Twilight nodded sympathetically. "But we need to consider all possibilities. Your power, the way you use it, it all fits with the legend."
"I know, I know, but what I'm saying is I'm not the reincarnation." Miko spoke firmly.
"And what makes you so sure?" Sunset spoke up, curiosity tinting her voice.
Miko sighed, he knew he had to thread this carefully without revealing too much about his past.
The girls and Spike waited for Miko's response with bated breath, the air thick with anticipation.
He took a moment, his gaze drifting to the floor before meeting theirs. "The Giant of Light fused with me when I was younger." He started, "But it wasn't because I was a chosen one or destined for anything. It was because I was in the wrong place at the wrong time."
The group looked at him, their expressions a mix of shock and concern.
"When I was a kid, long before I met Rainbow Dash, I got into a bad car accident, doctors said I shouldn't have survived." Miko began, his voice even despite the gravity of his revelation. "A toddler was in the middle of the street when this car was moving towards the kid at high speed. The idiot driver probably thought it would be fun to go all Fast and Furious. Without thinking, I dashed to save the kid and got hit instead."
The group exchanged glances, their hearts heavy with the weight of Miko's words.
"The Giant saw everything and thought I was worth saving so he fused with me. Indefinitely." He paused, allowing the gravity of his words to sink in. "My powers didn't manifest until I was fourteen and that was a month before our fallout Dash." Miko looked at Rainbow Dash, his expression filled with a hint of sadness and regret.
"And The Giant said the reason he didn't reveal himself to me immediately is because it wasn't the right time. It wasn't until a week before the Fall Formal that he started to appear in my dreams, and you guys all know the rest of what happened after." He finished with a small smile.
The room was silent for a moment, each of them processing the gravity of Miko's revelation.
Rainbow Dash felt a pang of regret in her heart, if she had tried harder to know why he was distancing himself, maybe she could've helped him sooner.
Applejack leaned against a nearby wall, her eyes never leaving Miko's, filled with a newfound admiration for his bravery.
Fluttershy's eyes were filled with empathy, her gentle soul aching for the pain Miko had endured alone.
Rarity's face was a mask of shock, her mind racing with the implications of such an incredible secret.
Pinkie Pie, in a rare moment of seriousness, stared at Miko with a look that was hard to read, a mix of awe and sympathy.
Sunset Shimmer was the first to break the silence, her voice soft.
"Miko, I had no idea you went through all of that," she said, stepping closer to him. "But it just makes you even more amazing."
He shrugged off the compliment, his cheeks flushing a little. "It's nothing really, just something that happened."
Of course what he said was only half true but they didn't need to know about that.
Not just yet.
Miko cleared his throat before speaking. "Now as for the Giant that appeared before Equestria, well It's not the one fused with me but another of his kind." He said with a shrug.
"His kind?" They all echoed in unison, their eyes widening.
Miko nodded. "Yes, there is an entire planet full of them. An entire race of giants with amazing abilities and powers They are known as Ultras." He said with a smirk.
"Ultras?" They all once again echoed, their eyes wide with astonishment.
Miko chuckled at their reactions before speaking. "Computer. Activate field hologram and activate star map M78."
The computer beeped before a sphere-like device with multiple projectors appeared from the ceiling to the girls and Spike's surprise.
The sphere began spinning before the group's entire surrounding area was replaced by a vast sea of stars almost as if they were in space itself, the hologram was so realistic that Applejack had to take a step back to keep from getting dizzy.
"Everyone, welcome to the universe." Miko said, gesturing to the holographic display that filled the room. They all gazed in awe at the vast expanse of stars and galaxies.
"Incredible..." Twilight murmured, her eyes scanning the holographic display with wonder.
"Yeah..." Sunset nodded, her voice trailing off as she took in the vastness of the cosmos displayed before them. "This is...mind-blowing, Miko."
"Thanks, this is one of the few side projects my girlfriend and I have been working on." Miko said with a proud smile.
"Wait, your girlfriend helped you make this?" Rainbow Dash asked, her eyes flickering between the hologram and Miko, her mind racing.
Miko nodded, "Uh-huh, including the lair itself, she handled the programming of the computers while I did the heavy lifting, she's a real science wiz and a genius, heck she could give Twilight a run for her money." He said with a chuckle.
The group looked at each other in amazement, they never knew Miko had such a significant other. Rainbow's and Sunset's heart clenched a bit at the revelation but she pushed the feeling aside.
Miko cleared his throat before continuing. "It all started there." He said pointing to a red nebula in the distance. "Nebula M78."
The group leaned in as the hologram zoomed into the nebula, revealing multiple planets and at the center of it all a red sun.
"Two hundred and seventy thousand years ago." Miko started, getting everyone's full attention. "A race of human-like beings lived in a peaceful technological utopia on a planet in Nebula M78 that would eventually become known as the Land of Light."
The group leaned in closer to the hologram as he narrated, their eyes glued to the images of an alien world.
They saw the inhabitants looking exactly like humans and living in a world that was a blend of futuristic cityscapes and lush, natural landscapes. The hologram showed them flying vehicles and towering structures that looked like they were made of crystal and light.
Miko's face took on a grim expression before speaking again. "However, this society lived on a planet which was surely doomed, as its star was already in its red giant stage, and eventually went dark altogether."
The group watched in horror as the hologram shifted to show the star go completely dark.
"Good heavens." Rarity breathed out, her eyes wide with wonder and horror at the same time. "How did they survive?"
"The best and brightest minds of the Land of Light came together and came up with a plan to save their world And its people. and after many years of trial, error, and development they had finally created that which would save their home. And they called it, The Plasma Spark." Miko said as it showed many scientists working on a scepter-like device with a bright white crystal on top of it.
"Is that even possible?" asked the Princess of Friendship "To be able to produce such energy, I mean."
Miko shrugged, "Sorry Twilight, But the Land of Lights technology is far too advanced for me to understand fully. But this is where it gets really exciting." He said with a grin.
Applejack looked at him with a raised eyebrow. "What could be more exciting than making an artificial sun?"
Miko just smirked. "That's because AJ, none of the inhabitants of the Land of Light could've expected what happened the moment they activated the Plasma Spark. As the energy of Plasma Spark showered the Land of Light with its energy, the power of the artificial sun had an unforeseen affect on the people who lived on it."
The hologram shifted to show the same humans but now, they were glowing with energy, their forms morphing into something new and powerful.
"The energy of the Plasma Spark and transformed the people of the Land of Light, and they were gifted with incredible powers the likes of which no one has ever seen before.
They watched as the human-like inhabitants slowly grew to almost fifty feet size as their skin became metallic silver and their eyes became oval shaped glowing white.
"Upon study they discovered that they were incredibly strong, fast, and agile. Among other numerous abilities, their bodies generated chemicals that could enhance their strength, could fire energy beams from their hands and could change their sizes at will." He said, as the hologram showed the now giant beings testing their newfound powers.
"And so a new dawn had come. And with it came the birth of a new kind of hero." Miko's voice was filled with excitement and reverence as the hologram showed the newly formed Ultras standing tall and proud. "This, was the birth of the Ultras."
The group looked at the holographic display in awe, the story of the Ultras unfolding before them like a blockbuster movie.
"With their newfound powers and abilities the newly born Ultras decided to use their powers to defend the universe from the forces of darkness. to better do this the Ultras created the Space Garrison, an intergalactic force that patrolled the universe and helped anyone in need from the various threats that sought to destroy them." He explained watching with a smile of admiration.
"And so the heroic acts of the Ultras of M78 were made known throughout the cosmos. from battling Various and destructive monsters known as Kaiju, to thwarting Alien invasions on other worlds. Fighting for universal peace and justice." He finished with a flourish, the hologram fading away.
The room remained silent for a few moments, the gravity of the story weighing heavily on each of them.
"Wait, that's it? Miko! There's gotta be more to it than that!" Pinkie exclaimed, her eyes shimmering with excitement. "What kind of battles did they get into? Did they have any cool catchphrases?"
"Sorry Pinks, but that's enough history lessons for one day." Miko said with a chuckle, making her pout as the holo-sphere returned inside the ceiling.
"But wait, what about the Light of Hope?" Fluttershy asked timidly.
"The Giant of Light told me that the Light of Hope is a powerful force that resonates with the hearts of those who seek it. It is not bound by the same rules as the Elements of Harmony, but it shares their purpose of protecting and unifying. It is a beacon that guides the lost and gives strength to the weak." Miko explained, his gaze still on the spot where the hologram used to be.
"So,how come you never used it before like, right now? Because It could be useful against the Dazzlings." Rainbow Dash asked, her curiosity piqued.
Miko smiled widely at the rainbow-haired girl. "That's an easy answer, Dash." He said.
Everyone leaned closer, as he opened his mouth, eagerly waiting for his response.
"I have no idea how." Miko simply said, causing them to facefault.
"Seriously?!" Rainbow exclaimed, pushing herself off the floor with a huff. "You've had this power for who knows how long and you don't know how to use it?"
Miko shrugged helplessly, grinning sheepishly. "Sorry, okay. Unfortunately, while the Giant knows what it's capable of, even he doesn't know how I can trigger it or control it. It's like having a cheat code in a video game but not knowing the button combination." He chuckled slightly, trying to lighten the mood.
The group groaned in unison, except for Twilight who was deep in thought.
"Still, to think there is an entire world full of them." Twilight murmured, her mind racing with the possibilities.
"Yeah, I thought you guys deserve to know more of what I know about the Ultras since your my best friends, but I also trust you guys to keep this a secret, humanity as a whole is not ready yet to know that aliens are real, so do not, I repeat do not tell anyone else, not even your families." Miko said with a serious tone.
They all nodded in agreement, the gravity of the situation setting in. They were now privy to information that could potentially change the world as they knew it.
"We're in this together, Miko," Applejack said firmly, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Whether it's the Dazzlings or whatever else comes our way, we've got each other's backs."
"Applejack is right." Rarity nodded, her gaze steady and determined. "We're in this together, Miko. Whatever happens, we're going to face it as friends."
Fluttershy added, "And we won't tell anyone about the Ultras. We promise."
"Thanks, guys." Miko's smile was genuine, and he felt a warmth in his chest at their unwavering support. "But for now, let's get this slumb- I mean sleepover started." He said, leading them up the stairs to the lair's entrance which led to a corner in the house's living room.
"I still can't believe you had something like this under your house." Sunset said, stepping into the living room with the others following suit.
Miko grinned before he pressed a red button behind one of the shelves which closed the bookshelf like a door leading to the lair, "Well, what can I say, it's fun to keep all of you on your toes." He said cheekily.
"Though how long have you had that lair anyways?" Applejack inquired with a raised eyebrow.
Miko shrugged. "Three years...I think." He said with a chuckle. "Halfway into sophomore year, after I got my powers, I had the extra time and funds to build it. At first it was just a huge cave when I first found it."
He rubbed the back of his neck smiling nervously. "Okay, uhhh...you girls get changed into your PJs while I start making the Pizza."
"Yay! Pizza!" Pinkie cheerfully exclaimed before zipping up the stairs to her guest room, her excitement palpable.
Miko shook his head in amusement while the girls went upstairs to get ready for the sleepover.
Spike was about to follow suit before Miko grabbed by the collar. "Hey!" He protested.
"Sorry bud, but I don't want you to see anything that you shouldn't." Miko said, carrying him to the kitchen with Hunter following closely.
Soon everyone was in the living room in their pajamas, though Rainbow and Sunset blushed when they saw Miko in his. It was a simple white t-shirt and jogging pants that hugged his muscular frame in a way that left little to the imagination.
A while later everyone was doing their own thing and had finally settled down for the evening as Twilight was sitting on the couch working on counter-spell in Fluttershy's notebook with Miko pitching in suggestions here and there while he was reading a comic book while Hunter was lying down by his feet.
Applejack and Rainbow Dash were sitting on the floor playing video games, Fluttershy was petting Spike, Pinkie was typing on her laptop, and Rarity was checking her cell phone while Sunset watches.
"Status update: okie-dokie-lokie!" Pinkie said typing into her Mystable account.
Fluttershy and Sunset gather in close around Rarity, she taps her phone and aims its screen toward the three of them.
A flash, as Rarity snapped a picture of herself, Fluttershy, and Sunset sporting a broad grin, and Spike making a goofy face and holding up a dog biscuit in the background.
As soon as the fashionista looks at the selfie, Rarity grimaces mightily upon taking a good close look, then aims an icy glare in the canine's direction as the other two snicker silently at Spike's photobomb. Spike just smirks as best he can around the half-chewed biscuit in his teeth.
Meanwhile, the videogame showdown continues as Applejack appears to be having the upper hand. Rainbow's frustration builds to the point that she was about to smack the console but her hand instantly stopped when it was a few inches away from the console as Miko suddenly spoke up from the couch.
"Hit the GameCube, Dash and you owe me money." He said, not taking his eyes off the comic book.
Rainbow Dash groaned, dropping the controller. "Miko, come on, you know how much I hate losing." She grumbled as Applejack gave her a smug smile.
"Well I'm saving you from getting broke." He retorted looking up from his comic. "Not only is it hard to find a well conditioned one like that nowadays, but that thing cost me a pretty penny."
Rainbow rolled her eyes. "Oh please how much can it be?" She said sarcastically.
Miko raised an eyebrow at her. "Can you pay me thirty five hundred bucks right now?"
Rainbow opened her mouth to retort but thought better of it, she didn't have that kind of money and she knew it.
"Thought so." He smirked and looked at what Twilight was writing for the counter-spell before grimacing.
"So, Twilight, how is that counter-spell comin'?" Rainbow asked, looking over her shoulder at her friend.
"Huh? Oh, uh, good. Great." Twilight hesitantly replied, pulling the notebook closer to her.
Miko rubbed the back of his neck uncomfortably. "Yeah, umm, I've been pitching in here and there but..." He glanced over it again before grimacing again. "It's a working progress."
Twilight looked at him deadpan. "Thanks for the confidence boost, Miko." She mumbled, her pen scratching away at the paper as she tried to work out the spell.
He was about to retort when his phone went off, the ringtone echoing through the room. Miko glanced at the screen, and his smile dropped.
"Hang on guys. I need to take this." He said getting off the couch and walking into the kitchen.
They all exchanged curious glances as Miko disappeared into the kitchen, the tension palpable in his sudden change of demeanor. His voice was muffled, but the seriousness of his tone was clear.
Rainbow leaned towards Twilight, whispering, "Who could that be?" Twilight just shrugged, before looking at Fluttershy with a smile. "By the way, thanks for letting me use your notebook, Fluttershy. I really like the song you wrote for the Rainbooms."
"Thanks." The shy girl said with an appreciative smile before sighing sadly while holding Pinkie's alligator plushie whom she named Gummy. "Hopefully one day, we'll get a chance to play it."
Meanwhile with Miko
Miko's tepped outside to the backyard on his phone. "Hey man. What's up." He said into his phone, his heart racing.
As he listened to the voice on the other end of the line, Miko's expression grew more serious by the second. "But, what about Big Sis, can't she help you?"
The voice argued back, and a reasonable one made Miko sighed before he nodded. "Okay, I'll do it. But only after the band competition at CHS, there's a lot going down right now."
He ended the call with a heavy heart and before he shook his head and went back inside and took a peek at the Pizza oven, it wasn't quite ready yet. He took a deep breath before plastering a smile on his face and walked back into the living room.
Back to the Living room.
A bray of laughter was heard from Rainbow as she had snatched away Applejack's controller and held it out of her reach.
Miko rolled his eyes at this. "Controller, seven hundred dollars." He said as he plopped down on the couch.
Rainbow froze when she heard the price, the laughter dying in her throat as she gingerly handed the controller back to Applejack. "Killjoy..." She grumbled good-naturedly, sitting down beside Miko.
"So who was on the phone?" Rainbow asked casually, trying to keep her curiosity in check.
Miko shrugged. "Eh, it was just my girlfriend's brother checking up on me. Nothing serious." He replied, trying to play it cool, but his voice held a hint of concern that didn't go unnoticed by the perceptive Sunset but she decided to let it go, for now.
As Twilight was still working on the counter-spell Rarity took a seat to her right on the couch. "Twilight, I think I speak for all of us when I say I don't know what we would have done if you hadn't come back to help us." She said as the others voiced their agreement.
But Miko decided to respond differently. "Guys, remember. Twilight is here to help us, yes, but she's not in this alone. We're all going to contribute our part when helping her counter the spell the Dazzlings put onto the whole school." He said , looking around the room at all of them.
"Even me?" Sunset asked tentatively, her gaze flickering over to Miko.
Miko nodded with a smirk. "Yup, even you Sunset."
"But...I'm not in the band. How am I suppose to help?" She said, looking confused.
"You may not be in the band, but I'm sure even your slightest cheer will help us out when we all play together. This is just a hunch, but maybe even a moral boost can fuel the magic that we need." He winked at her, trying to lighten the mood.
Twilight agreed to Miko's assessment, nodding thoughtfully. "Hm. It's not a bad idea. You think that you'll be able to help cheer us on, Sunset Shimmer?"
"I'll do my best." Sunset said with a small smile, feeling a bit more included in the group.
Spike hopped on the couch with Hunter. "Don't forget us. We're a huge part of this group as well." He said with Hunter barking in agreement.
Twilight nodded with a smile. "Yes you are, you two. We'll count on you as well." She said, giving Spike a pat on the head and Hunter a gentle scratch behind the ear.
"I'm sure one person by our side along with a talking dog and badass wolf will be more than enough for us to help make the band look like it's a force to be reckoned with." Miko said with a grin looking at the two canines.
Spike grinned wagging his tail while Hunter puffed up his chest at being called a badass.
That's when they heard a ding coming from the kitchen. "Ooh! Pizza's ready." Miko announced, jumping to his feet.
"Finally!" Rainbow said as she followed him to the kitchen, her stomach growling loudly. "I'm starving."
"You and me both, Dash." Miko said with a laugh, as he pulled out the perfectly cooked pizza from the oven, the cheese bubbling and the crust just crispy enough to make anyone's mouth water.
The others quickly gathered around the kitchen island, drawn by the heavenly scent of cheese and sauce. Rainbow Dash's eyes widened at the sight of the large pizza, her stomach rumbling louder than ever. "Wow, Miko, you weren't kidding when you said you were going to make enough for everyone," she said, her voice filled with admiration and a touch of greed. "But why is a quarter of it filled with nothing but veggies?" she questioned, pointing at the sad corner of the pizza.
Miko rolled his eyes grabbing the pizza cutter, he pointed to Fluttershy. "Vegetarian." He said before pointing to Twilight and Sunset. "Ponies."
Rainbow nodded with understanding. "Ah, got it." She grabbed a slice of the non-veggie side with gusto. "But seriously, you can cook, you build techy stuff, and you're part alien. What can't you do?" She joked, taking a massive bite of her pizza.
Miko shrugged with a grin. "Ask me again once I find something I can't do."
"Miko you didn't have to make a veggie part you know I've eaten meat before." Sunset said with a smirk as she took a slice of pizza.
Miko deadpanned at her. "Yeah I know, we're the ones who encouraged you to try at least one meal, and no. I don't want a repeat of that fiasco again." He said as he and the others but Twilight and Spike shuddered at the memory.
Sunset just rolled her eyes at the comment and took a bite of her slice. "It wasn't that bad."
Twilight looked at them confused. "Wait, fiasco? What happened?" She asked with Spike nodding just as curious
Miko took a bite of his slice before answering. "Let's just say when Sunset got her first taste of a grilled steak. Uh...she went into a frenzy."
The Rainbooms chuckled at the memory except for Sunset whose cheeks flushed red. "It was just the taste, I swear!" she protested.
"Yeah, but when Miko refused to give you anymore you charged into a steakhouse downtown like a mad woman and demanded to give you everything they had on they're menu." Rainbow Dash teased, a laugh escaping her as she took another bite of her pizza.
"Which was comical yet disturbing at the same time." Miko said, a smirk playing on his lips as he watched Sunset's reaction.
Sunset glared at them before poking her tongue out at her. "It was one time!" She exclaimed with a huff.
"One time too many, and when you got some sense back you were as red as a tomato." Miko retorted with a grin, taking a swig from his soda.
They all laughed, the room filled with the sound of friendship and the occasional crunch of pizza.
Later that night
Everyone one was asleep in the living room in their individual sleeping bags while the couch having been converted into a bed for Twilight and Fluttershy. Rainbow Dash was snoring slightly, her head resting on a pillow that Miko had tossed her way earlier.
Twilight woke up and grabbed Fluttershy's notebook on the coffee table that was set aside earlier. She had to finish the counter-spell before the Battle of the Bands, and she was determined to get it right.
She got off the makeshift bed taking care not to wake anyone up, and made her way to the kitchen to continue her work.
Later in the kitchen, she has her pen clamped between her teeth and is holding the notebook open under her fists like a pony in Equestria might use mouth and hooves for this purpose. She scrawls a little something, eyes it critically, then lets disgust run over her whole face and shakes her head vigorously before spitting the pen out to one side.
"No, that's not going to work." Twilight said while rubbing her eyes, before a voice called out to her. "Hey, Twilight."
This startled the princess as she looked to see her Miko and Sunset Shimmer lounging at the kitchen entrance. "You're up late." She said entering the kitchen.
"Everything alright?" Miko asked, his voice low enough not to wake the others.
Twilight then hastily covers her scribbles so they couldn't see as they walk in. "Just looking over the counter-spell." She said trying to play it off before she picked up the book looking at the pages, a worried expression. "We only get one shot at this. It has to be perfect."
Miko took a seat right beside her while Sunset walked over to open the refrigerator.
"We really are lucky you're here." Sunset said before looking into the fridge.
At this Twilight looked away with a mixed expression of sadness and frustration. "That's what everyone keeps telling me."
"Must be nice to have everyone always looking to you for answers to their problems..." Sunset said, grabbing a bottle of water before turning to her with a small frown looking down. "...instead of waiting for you to cause a problem,"
"Just because everyone expects something from you doesn't mean it's guaranteed to happen." Twilight said a sad frown of her own.
Sunset took a sip of water before adding. "Well, that doesn't stop them from expecting it."
"It's like they think you're the one with all the answers." Miko said leaning on the kitchen counter.
Twilight looked down at the notebook. "Which only makes things harder because the last thing you want to do is..."
"...let everybody down." They all said in unison before they looked at each other in surprise before trading a pair of lopsided smiles with each other realizing they had more in common than they thought.
"Well, it seems I'm not the only one who feels like that." Miko said, his gaze flickering between Twilight and Sunset, a hint of understanding in his eyes.
Sunset leaned against the fridge. "No, you're not. But we all have our parts to play, right?"
Miko nodded. "Yeah, and we're all here to help each other. That's what friends do." He offered Twilight a comforting pat on the back, his hand lingering for a brief moment longer than necessary.
"Words coming from a true leader, Isn't that right Miko?" Twilight said with a warm smile, glancing up at him.
"What?" He said looking at her in surprise.
Twilight nodded, her smile growing a touch brighter. "Miko, earlier before we left the school, I saw how much you've changed since we first met. You're more confident and... well, you're definitely more open to others." She said, her voice sincere. "How you took charge, gave the girls courage and brought them together, that's what a true leader does."
Miko looked at her in disbelief before shaking his head. "Me? A leader? No, no, no, no, I'm no leader, I can't be the leader." He denied waving his hands in front of him, before looking at Sunset. "Am I?"
Sunset closed the fridge and put the bottle of water on the counter giving him a wry smile. "I always thought you kinda were."
The two Equestrians chuckled as Miko sputtered in embarrassment trying to deny it.
Miko cleared his throat trying to regain his composure. "Okay, um, changing the subject, Twilight do you need help with the counter-spell?"
Twilight and Sunset smirked at Miko's sudden change of topic, but Twilight shook her head. "Thanks, but I think I've got it under control."
But Miko wasn't buying it. He could see the exhaustion etched on Twilight's face and the frustration in her posture. "You know, you don't have to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders all the time, Twilight." He said gently. "Remember, you're not the only one here who's a student of Princess Celestia." He said, nudging his head at Sunset knowingly.
Sunset looked a bit unsure of this. "Miko, are you sure you want me to help? I mean, I've been gone from Equestria for a long time, my knowledge on magic might not be...up to par."
Miko nodded with a smile. "I'm sure." He said before he walked behind Sunset and gently pushed her closer to the counter next to Twilight.
"From what Twilight told me about your time as Princess Celestia's student, well...minus the bad stuff, you were-are a prodigy in your own right. If the both of you put your heads together, I know you two will crack this counter-spell." Miko encouraged, his tone sincere and hopeful.
Sunset blinked before setting aside her water bottle and taking a seat next to Twilight, opening the book to the page with the counter-spell. "Alright, let's see what we're dealing with here." She said with renewed determination.
And with that the trio spent the rest of the night working on the counter-spell.
The next morning
Sunset Shimmer slowly woke up in her sleeping bag as her phone's alarm went off. She groaned before reaching for the device and silencing it. She looked around the room to see Twilight and Fluttershy asleep with the shy girl hugging Spike close to her as they slept in the sofabed with a peaceful smile on their faces.
Rainbow was still out like a light, sprawled across the floor, and Pinkie was snuggled up next to Gummy, her alligator plushie. Rarity was still in her own sleeping bag, looking like a royal sleeper despite the less-than-ideal conditions.
The only ones not present were Miko and Applejack. Sunset sat up, stretching her limbs and wincing at the stiffness in her back. The night had been long, but their progress on the counter-spell had been surprisingly swift. Twilight had indeed been a huge help, her knowledge of Equestrian magic providing a much-needed perspective to Sunset's own understanding.
She heard a bark to her left and looked over to see Hunter right next to her, his tail wagging gently as he nudged her hand with his cold wet nose. "Good morning, buddy," she murmured, scratching him behind the ear, which earned her a quiet whine of contentment.
The dual-color haired girl soon caught the scent of pancakes coming from the kitchen, and her stomach growled in response. She managed to peel herself out of her sleeping bag and shuffled into the kitchen with the Wolf pup following to find Applejack standing at the stove, flipping a pancake with surprising grace.
Applejack soon noticed Sunset and smiled. "Mornin' Sunset. Hope you like pancakes."
"Morning Applejack." Sunset yawned and rubbed the sleep from her eyes. "You're cooking?"
"Eyup." Applejack nodded before she flipped onto a stack of pancakes onto a plate. "I figured I'd whip up something for breakfast before the big day." She said, placing the plate onto the counter.
Sunset nodded, taking the plate before Hunter barked happily at Applejack greeting her a good morning.
The country girl patted the wolf pup on the head and put three pieces of pancakes on his bowl. Sunset took a bite, the sweet taste and fluffy texture instantly brightening her morning. "These are amazing, Applejack."
"Thanks. Just a little taste of home." Applejack said, pouring more batter into the pan. The sizzle filled the room as she expertly spread it into the perfect circle.
"Where's Miko?" Sunset asked, glancing around the kitchen.
The blonde shrugged. "He went out for a walk early this morning. Said something about being a nice morning and needing to clear his head before the big day. He'll be back soon, I'm sure." She tossed a pancake onto a plate and slid it across the counter to Sunset.
Suddenly Pinkie Pie popped right next to Sunset, startling the two. "Are those pancakes?!"
"Whoa, Pinkie, where did you come from?" Sunset jumped back slightly, holding her plate protectively.
"From the living room, silly!" Pinkie said with a laugh, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "They smell great!" She snatched a pancake off Sunset's plate before the latter could protest, popping it into her mouth. "Mmm! Applejack, these are the bomb!"
Applejack shook her head in amusement. "Well there's also some apple fritters and oatmeal and eggs if you're looking for something else to munch on."
Sunset nodded, grabbing a plate and filling it with the sweet smelling apple fritters, the scent of cinnamon dancing in the air. She took a bite, the warm apple filling melting in her mouth. "Mm, these are delicious too."
That's when Twilight, Spike, Rarity, and Fluttershy minus Rainbow Dash stepped into the kitchen, all looking like they had just rolled out of bed. "What's cooking?" Twilight asked with a yawn.
Applejack turned around with a smile. "Pancakes, apple fritters, and eggs if you want some. Rainbow Dash is still out cold?"
Rarity nodded, taking a seat. "Well we tried to wake her but she's out like a light."
Fluttershy nodded, taking a plate and serving herself some eggs.
Twilight noticed a certain someone was missing from the kitchen. "Where's Miko?" She asked, rubbing the sleep from her eyes.
"He went out for a walk." Sunset and Applejack said in unison before the latter added, "Said it was a nice morning."
The group nodded, the room filling with the comforting sounds of pancakes sizzling and plates clinking as they filled their plates with the delicious breakfast spread. Rainbow Dash remained unbothered by the commotion, her snores a constant background noise in the living room.
Soon Miko entered the house, whistling a tune. He saw everyone in the kitchen and grinned. "Good morning, guys."
He deadpanned to see Rainbow sprawled out on the floor next to the couch snoring loudly.
"I'm guessing none of you could wake up Dash?" He asked with a smirk before heading over to the fridge.
Spike nodded. "No, she's out like a light bulb, a very loud light bulb."
Everyone nodded in agreement, their laughter echoing through the kitchen. Miko opened the fridge and grabbed a carton of juice, pouring himself a glass. "Let me handle this," he said, taking a sip before heading towards the living room.
He grinned like a cheshire cat before grabbing the remote and turned on the TV
[SSSSKKKKRRRREEEOOOOOOOOOONNNGGGTTT!] The sound of Godzilla from the TV at full volume blared through the room, and Rainbow Dash shot up from the floor, her eyes wide with surprise. "What the...?" she groaned, looking around in confusion.
"Hahahahaha!" The room erupted in laughter as Dash's hair stood on end and she frantically searched for the source of the noise.
Miko guffawed as Rainbow's hand shot to the TV remote and silenced the monstrous roar, her sleep-addled eyes shooting a glare his way. "What the hell was that for?!" she complained, rubbing the sleep from her eyes.
"Just making sure you didn't miss breakfast." Miko said, still chuckling as he took his seat at the kitchen counter.
Rainbow threw a pillow at him, which he deftly caught. "You're such an ass."
Miko's laughter subsided, and he took a bite of his pancake. "You know you love me for it."
Rainbow shot him a playful glare before stumbling into the kitchen, grabbing a plate and filling it with food.
"Miko where did you run off to this morning anyways?" Sunset asked as she took a seat next to him, her plate filled with pancakes and apple fritters.
Miko shrugged as everyone looked at him expectantly. "Like I told AJ, I took a nice morning walk."
As soon as he said that the TV went to a news bulletin. [This just in, a daring robbery at the Canterlot City Bank was stopped today, while the police have no leads, several witnesses claim to have seen a mysterious blur stopping the assailants. While security footage was not clear, the criminals are swearing about the blur having glowing blue eyes. More on this developing story at eleven.]
The eight girls and two canines slowly turned their heads to Miko, who was blinking wide eyed at the TV screen.
Rainbow crossed her arms looking at her best friend with narrowed eyes. "A walk, huh?"
They all waited for his answer, but Miko was unfazed as he took a bite of his apple fritter chew slowly.
(Munch)
(Munch)
(Munch)
(Gulp!)
"I was taking a very enthusiastic walk."
End of Chapter 13
And that's the chapter.
Miko's song sequence was experimental at best, so sorry if it wasn't good.
Now some of you are probably expecting Ore Kaigan next and yes it will be.
but I've been brainstorming new ideas lately
My oc Miko Uzumaki in Glitch Techs.
Pairing will be Zahra X Five and Miko x Miko
Don't worry I have something to help with the name confusion.
Tell me what you think in the reviews.
Oh and thank you for those who follow, favorite, and continue to read my fics.
See you all soon!