Rainbow Dash, Please Report to the Principal's Office

Chapters

1: Observation
2: Speculation
3: Experimentation
4: Frustration
5: Relaxation
6: Preparation
7: Commotion
8: Revelation
9: Repercussion
10: Discussion
12: Proposition
13: Please Report to the Principal's Office (I)
14: Please Report to the Principal's Office (II)
15: Please Report to the Principal's Office (III)
16: Conclusion
11: Adaptation

1: Observation

To: Silver Spoon
From: Diamond Tiara

Oh. My. Gosh. This is the fifth time Rainbow Dash has been called to the principal's office this week! Attention-seeker, much? It's not a good look for the captain of, like, every sports team to get in trouble so much. I'm supposed to have pride in the Wondercolts, you know? But if this keeps up, I might have to start rooting for the Shadowbolts. Mother says it's not good to associate yourself with problematic people, after all.

Why does the principal even want her so much? Like, what did she do? Didn't she save our lives a couple months ago? Ugh. They better not expel her or anything! I'd rather not be killed off by rogue magic from a place I don't even know.

Anyways, how is Biology class?

To: Fluttershy
From: Applejack

Not gonna lie, I'm gettin' worried about Rainbow. When the announcement came, she left the Biology classroom faster than a pig at feeding time, and now she's been there for over twenty minutes. That's a long time to be trapped with the principal! I have no clue what's going on, and she hasn't been replying to any of my texts or calls. Have you heard anything from her? I hope she's okay. She'd have told us if sumthin was wrong, right?

To: Sunset Shimmer
From: Trixie Lulamoon

Can you believe this injustice? While I, the Great and Powerful Trixie, am stuck in biology class, Rainbow Dash gets to skip the whole period! How come she gets to spend the day with the principal while I'm stuck dissecting a dead frog from a box?! No fair!

I think I'm gonna throw a smoke bomb and bolt. Could you cover for me pleeeeease? I'll buy you that new video game you wanted! Just tell me the name and it's yours! Anything to get me out of this frog prison!

To: Pinkie Pie
From: Rarity

Darling, did Rainbow Dash seem a little odd to you earlier? She seemed really happy when she came back from Principal Celestia's office. Like, burst into song happy. Obviously, I am ecstatic to see my friend with such lifted spirits, but this felt peculiar. The only time I've seen her with such a smile was when she won the soccer game against Crystal Prep last semester. And surely, she was not playing a game with Celestia.

What could she have possibly been doing in the principal's office to make her so happy? The only time I've ever been called there was when my sequins were, and I quote, "so shiny they were blinding your fellow peers." Sure, it was out of the dress code, but it was FASHION! Fashion requires taking risks! Of course, I had to go home and change my outfit, which was absolutely dreadful! But her outfit is well within the dress code, and she's much happier than I was. So what happened?

Pinkie Pie, you're the happiness-expert. Maybe you can get it out of her?

To: Bon Bon
From: Lyra Heartstrings

Hey, girl, just wanted to warn you: steer clear of Rainbow Dash today. I was asking her for her History notes in the hallway earlier, but she totally brushed me off like I wasn't even there! I doubt she was trying to be mean, but clearly she's preoccupied, so we should give her space. Although, that means I still don't have the History notes.

Side note, could I borrow your History notes?

To: Sunset Shimmer
From: Twilight Sparkle

Has Rainbow Dash seemed strange to you? She's usually an open book, but today, she's been so cryptic. During lunch, I asked her why she was sent to the principal's office again, but all she'd say was, "Don't worry about it. I promise, it's good." And believe me, I trust Rainbow Dash, but I can't help but be a little worried. She normally tells us everything, even if it's something as gross as picking her nose! This change in behavior is just... weird.

For example, what does "good" mean? Good as in, she's learning something good, or doing something good? Because if she's doing some research with Principal Celestia, I would love to help her! Or maybe she's getting extra credit? Again, I'd love to assist her!

I hope she's okay. I've been reading some psychology books in my free time, and one thing I've learned is that honest and open communication is key to successful relationships. Hopefully, she'll talk to us soon!

To: Silver Spoon
From: Diamond Tiara

No. Way. Rainbow Dash just got called to the principal's office. AGAIN! That's the second time today! If she's getting expelled, then I'm going to have my father sue the school for personal endangerment. We need her to stop that Equestrian magic from ruining our days! I refuse to be part of a school that would be so reckless with our safety. She better still be in school when we come back tomorrow!!!

By the way, should I invite Apple Bloom to my birthday party? Mother says no, but I kind of want to. Let me know your thoughts.

To: Twilight Sparkle
From: Sunset Shimmer

I'm worried about Rainbow Dash, too, but frankly, it's not really our business. Whatever's going on is her situation to deal with, and if she's choosing not to tell us yet, then we should respect her privacy. I know curiosity can get the best of us, and we want all the answers as soon as possible, but sometimes, it's better to just be patient. I'm sure she'll tell us when she's ready, if she wants to tell us at all.

Rainbow Dash is our friend, and we trust our friends. I have full faith that she has everything under control, and if she needs our help, she'll ask for it when the time comes. Everything's going to be fine.

To: Flash Sentry
From: Sandalwood

Yooo, bro, do you have any idea what's going on? The energy in gymnasium is wonky today. Probably because every single person in class is talking about Rainbow Dash getting sent to the principal's office again. I feel like I missed something. Apparently this is a regular thing now? Micro Chips says he thinks she's getting kicked off the football team, which would be no bueno, but Captain Planet thinks she's been chosen for some elite sports gig out of school. Regardless, it's the only thing anyone wants to talk about. If you got any information about this, please tell me, cause I am so lost.

To: Photo Finish
From: Trixie Lulamoon

The Great and Powerful Trixie will NOT stand for this!

How come Rainbow Dash is getting buckets of attention?! All she's done is walk in and out an office several times a day! I put hours of time and effort into my magic tricks, and yet no one talks about them as much as they're talking about her! This is a travesty, I tell you! A travesty!

And if they must talk about her, they could at least talk about the truth. I don't know why everyone is wasting their time on silly theories about her sports career, when it's pretty obvious what's going on here.

Rainbow Dash is in a secret relationship with Principal Celestia. Duh.

2: Speculation

To: Rarity
From: Applejack

I cannot believe the nerve of that girl! Spreading a rumor across campus that Rainbow Dash and Principal Celestia are dating? That's worse than a rotten apple at the bottom of a barrel! I know Trixie wants attention, but she's just spreading lies! That ain't right at all! I'm gonna talk to her at lunch and hopefully knock some sense into her head. Our Rainbow Dash would never do sumthin like that!

Speaking of, have you heard anything from Rainbow? I tried calling her after school, but she didn't pick up! All she sent was a text message saying, "Too busy with work." Since when does she do her homework immediately? She LOVES procrastinating! Whatever's going on in her office meetings is doing something to her. I hope she opens up soon. Wouldn't want this to get blown even further out of proportion.

To: Silver Spoon
From: Diamond Tiara

Surprise, surprise, Rainbow Dash just got called to the principal's office again! That's, like, the seventh time this week. Seriously, is she okay? She's still here at CHS, which means I don't have to start a lawsuit yet, but I've got my father on speed-dial, just in case.

I don't really subscribe to Trixie's idea that Rainbow and Celestia are dating, cause like, ew, that's gross. Isn't Principal Celestia old enough to be her mom? No, I think Rainbow Dash pulled one of her stupid pranks on Mr. Doodle, and now she's paying the consequences for it. Probably put gum on his chair or something. Probably have to have a whole set of meetings about it with her parents. Drama. Honestly, I'm amazed she's not, like, suspended. With how much time she spends in that office and NOT in class, she might as well be.

By the way, I put Apple Bloom on the guest list, but that might mean I have to bump someone. Any suggestions? I was thinking Pipsqueak, but he's kinda cute. Whatever. Just tell me what you think.

To: Flash Sentry
From: Sandalwood

Yo, this is crazy. Ever since the hubbub started yesterday, Micro Chips has been collecting data, and it turns out, Celestia has called Rainbow Dash to her office at 9:35 A.M. twice now. He says a pattern is forming! Isn't that exciting? Obviously, he still has to collect and analyze more information before he can draw a definitive conclusion, but bro, I've never felt more alive. Maybe I'm a gossip junkie? Or a finding-the-truth junkie? Doesn't matter. My aura has changed into this like, happy, yellow, light. I still don't understand why we care about what Rainbow Dash is doing in the principal's office, but man do I wanna find out!

To: Lyra Heartstrings
From: Bon Bon

Everyone in History class was buzzing today with theories about Rainbow Dash and Principal Celestia. Some people think she's gotten a sports scholarship and is leaving for a new school next semester. Others think she's serving a punishment for some prank-gone-wrong. And then there's Trixie. Oh, Trixie. I don't think many people are taking her suggestion seriously, but they're definitely listening to it! I mean, how could they not? It's all she talks about!

Personally, I think this is Rainbow Dash's personal business, so I'm just gonna steer clear of the drama and wait until this all blows over. I overheard some of our other classmates, though, and they're talking about actively going out to find the truth. What that means, I'm not sure, but it sounds like they're gonna get in trouble.

Oh, yeah, we spent our entire class on Rainbow Dash, so we forgot to take notes for History. You think I could maybe borrow your notes?

To: Fluttershy
From: Pinkie Pie

THIS IS AN EMERGENCY!

Rainbow Dash has been in Principal Celestia's office for over an hour now! This calls for Operation: Breakout! You grab the grappling hook, I'll grab the balloons, and we'll meet at the water fountain in ten minutes! We're gonna free Rainbow Dash from her prison! Oh, and don't forget the brownie batter or the inflatable boat!

To: Silver Spoon
From: Diamond Tiara

Why weren't you at lunch today? You missed so much!

Mr. Cranky Doodle was on lunch duty today, and Wallflower Blush went up to him directly and asked if Rainbow Dash was in the principal's office because of something she did to him! You know how gutsy that was? Honestly, she's, like, my hero now! And I didn't even know she existed before today! Unfortunately, Mr. Doodle said no and went off on a whole rant about "the dangers of gossip," blah, blah, blah, all that stuff we heard in the social media safety assembly last month. So, turns out I was wrong and it wasn't a prank, but that doesn't mean I'm not worried she's going to get expelled at the end of this! I have my lawyers ready!

Oh, but the best part of lunch was Applejack giving Trixie a verbal beatdown! Her dumb theory was, well, dumb, and boy, did Applejack let her know it. Of course, she did it with country sweetness and brutal honesty. That girl doesn't sugarcoat anything! Unfortunately, Mr. Doodle intervened and ruined the experience, but it was a sight to see, and Trixie definitely got the message.

By the way, I'm bumping Snails from the party. Hopefully that doesn't bother Snips too much!

Message me back soon!

To: Sunset Shimmer
From: Trixie Lulamoon

Sunset, please! Accept my sincerest of apologies! I didn't mean to spread that rumor throughout the whole school! Well, maybe I did, but now I feel nothing but remorse. I had no intention of stirring up trouble, really! The attention and fame was just calling to me, and I totally forgot how my actions can have consequences. Imagine if what I said had left the school! Rainbow, Celestia, and I all could've gotten in trouble! I'm just glad neither of them caught wind of it. I promise, I'll never do something like this ever again. Hopefully, you forgive me and we can just forget this ever happened.

Message me back whenever you're ready, friend.

To: Flash Sentry
From: Sandalwood

Bro, Rainbow Dash didn't go to a single afternoon class! Whatever she's doing in the principal's office is taking up ALL of her time. Now that we know she didn't prank Mr. Doodle and Trixie's idea has been shut down, the leading theory is that she's gotten some kind of sports scholarship that's going to take her away from CHS. Captain Planet thinks she's going to Crystal Prep! Wouldn't that be a sick twist of fate?

By the way, Micro Chips needs some help collecting a certain kind of data. Any chance you know how to get in contact with the Dazzlings?

To: Fluttershy
From: Pinkie Pie

FLUTTERSHY! I've got the balloons, and I'm at the water fountain! WHERE ARE YOU?

3: Experimentation

To: Aria Blaze
From: Micro Chips

Greetings, Ms. Aria Blaze! I don't know if you remember me, but my name is Micro Chips. We went to school together for about a week before you ran off into the uncertain oblivion. Strange how life has brought us together again, huh?

Listen, I need your help doing something rather unorthodox. There's this whole conspiracy at CHS about why Rainbow Dash is spending so much time with Principal Celestia, and, well, I won't go into specifics, but I need someone to help me install a spy camera in her office. I remember you as sort of a bad chick with a cool vibe, so I think you'd be the perfect candidate to help me out. Let me know what works! I'm free at any time, but this would make more sense to do at night, cause, well, stealth.

Ciao! Looking forward to our new partnership!

To: Trixie Lulamoon
From: Sunset Shimmer

Of course I forgive you, Trixie. I know you. You want the approval of our classmates, which is fine, but know there are safer ways to get it that don't hurt anyone. Great example: baking cookies! Pinkie and I have perfected the art of the snickerdoodle. Believe it or not, the key is not sugar or cinnamon. Remind me to give you the recipe sometime!

I just don't want you doing something that will get you in trouble, alright? This whole Rainbow Dash situation is already a mess. Try not to stir the pot too much, okay?

To: Silver Spoon
From: Diamond Tiara

Did you hear what Trixie just did?!

I think she felt bad about spreading that awful rumor yesterday, so she literally sacrificed herself to get the truth for us! When Mr. Doodle's back was turned in class today, she threw a smoke bomb, placed a tack on his chair, and disrupted the whole class! Obviously, he sent her to the principal's office, which means, now, she can spy on Rainbow Dash and report back to us! Isn't that incredible? She purposefully got in trouble to support the cause! Sorry, Wallflower Blush! Trixie is my hero now!

By the way, why aren't you replying to my texts? We need to plan for my party! Message me!!!

To: Fluttershy
From: Rarity

Darling, don't you think this is getting a tad out of hand? Trixie just risked suspension to find out what Rainbow Dash is doing in the principal's office! If the truth isn't revealed, before we know it, they'll be a whole video series online about the conspiracy! And I can't film interviews, not in this heat! My hair just won't cooperate!

We have to get to the bottom of this. We're her best friends! If we ask politely, then she'll have to tell us, right? Or maybe if we let her in on the urgency of the situation? After all, with all her time cooped up in that room, I doubt she even knows the whole school is looking for answers! Think about it, Fluttershy. You and I could stop this petty drama once and for all and move on with our lives! Wouldn't that just be dazzling?

We must meet up with her for a little chit-chat. Let's say, ten minutes after the bell, school parking lot? I promise, we shall get the answers we need!

To: Flash Sentry
From: Sandalwood

Bro, people are saying that they didn't even see Rainbow Dash today! Like, she went straight to the principal's office when she walked in, no announcement or anything! How crazy is that? Seriously, I'm addicted to this now. Knowing the truth is like a drug!

Micro Chips has been taking too long to accumulate data, so I took matters into my own hands. I went on the internet, found Rainbow Dash's dad, and wrote him an email. Could you maybe look it over, see if there's anything I should change? It needs to be perfect.

Dear Mr. Hothoof,

Hey, man, my name is Sandalwood. I'm Rainbow Dash's friend from Canterlot High. Well, kinda. We don't really ever talk, and I don't know if she knows my name. But anyway, she's been going to the principal's office a lot lately, so much so that she hasn't even gone to class! It's become a real big thing at school, bro. I was just wondering if you knew anything about that, cause I have to know the answers! My teenage life depends on it!

So, write me back ASAP, and have a chill day.

--Sandalwood

P.S. I love your surname! Sounds like you're a horse! A hot horse!

Now, tell me, how good is that?

To: Sunset Shimmer, Twilight Sparkle, Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, Diamond Tiara, +63 others
From: Trixie Lulamoon

I'm sure you're all wondering what happened during my time in the principal's office. First off, I got afterschool detention for disrupting the class, which isn't surprising. But who cares about that?! The Great and Powerful Trixie has information on Rainbow Dash's disappearance, which she shall relay to you in a dramatic fashion!

I was inside Principal Celestia's office, ready to face the consequences for my brave and selfless sacrifice. However, my eyes darted around the room, searching for a glimmer, a glance, a gleam of a rainbow-haired friend. But at first glance, nothing. That is, until I looked down at our fair principal's desk. There, several pieces of paper with Rainbow's name on it. Papers of... homework? Yes, homework! In her time in Principal Celestia's office, Rainbow Dash has been doing her... homework? But if she's doing her homework, why isn't she going to class?

And that's when I saw her. Or rather, one single strand of her luscious hair, streaming out from behind a locked door. She was hiding from me! But why? Unfortunately, I was forced to leave at that moment, but believe me, I had seen enough. There was nothing about a sports scholarship, no punishments, not a sign of a relationship. No, Rainbow Dash seems to simply be skipping class and doing her missed work elsewhere. And Celestia seems to be... letting her?

That's all I've got. Thank you, one and all, for listening to the Great and Powerful Trixie! What a dazzling audience! I'll be here all night, so message me with any further questions. Bravo! What a show!

To: Applejack
From: Rarity

Unsurprisingly, talking to Rainbow Dash after school was a miserable failure. She didn't even look at Fluttershy and I! It's almost as if we didn't exist to her! She hardly even acknowledged us speaking! What is going on with her?

I'm worried about her, and I'm worried about our friendship. Did we do something wrong? Is she ignoring us on purpose? And what does this have to do with Celestia? I know us Rainbooms are collectively against the school being so interested in Rainbow Dash's personal life, but you must understand, darling, it's getting harder to trust that this is something we don't have to worry about! I wish it didn't come to this, but I have to know. Whatever it takes.

To: Micro Chips
From: Aria Blaze

DELETE THIS NUMBER IMMEDIATELY, OR I WILL FIND YOU AND END YOU.

4: Frustration

To: Flash Sentry
From: Sandalwood

Yooooo, Micro Chips actually did it! I didn't think he had the courage, but he totally put a tiny hidden camera into Principal Celestia's office last night! Captain Planet heard from Pixel Pizzazz, who heard from Photo Finish, who heard from Bulk Biceps, who heard from Trixie that Sour Sweet and Indigo Zap were in town yesterday at, like, midnight. I think Micro Chips might've gotten their help to break into the school and install the camera. Isn't that crazy? Wondercolts working with Shadowbolts! Man, this thing is getting so whack.

What's even more whack is that Micro Chips is holding a watch party to find out the truth! We have extended homeroom today, so everyone is gonna skip that and go to the gym, crowd around his computer, and watch what Celestia and Rainbow do instead! It's gonna be amazing! Dude, you better be here! Finally, my craving will be satisfied!

In other news, no response from Bow Hothoof (RD's pops). But now, we won't need it, since Micro Chips has our backs! This is gonna be so great!

To: Fluttershy
From: Applejack

Goodness gracious. A watch party? Really? Whatever happened to respecting people's privacy? Now the school is fixing to turn her personal situation into a spectacle? That ain't right! Course, talking sense into the whole school will be a lot harder than just confronting Trixie at lunch. Maybe I'll borrow one of Pinkie Pie's megaphones and make a speech at the watch party. I was going to go anyway, since Rarity wants to be there, and I want to make sure she doesn't get Trixie-levels of involved in this mess. Although, I doubt anything I say could make our peers hush up. This goshdarn drama is so embedded in their lives, I doubt anything short of the truth will end this mania.

I hope this whole mess ends soon. I miss our Rainbow Dash.

To: Silver Spoon
From: Diamond Tiara

You haven't been responding to any of my texts, so I'm not talking to you. Well, after THIS, I'm not talking to you.

Rainbow Dash walked into the school and started straight toward the principal's office, like usual, but get this. Her DAD was with her! I wasn't there, of course, but Scootaloo says that Rumble was there, and from his testimony, it sounds like Mr. Dash had no idea his daughter was skipping class! Drama! I wonder how he found out?

Anyway, now he's headed toward the principal's office with Rainbow, and I bet Celestia is going to explain to him exactly what's happening. And thanks to Micro Chips, we'll be watching from the safety of the gym. He's my new hero!

You HAVE to be at the viewing party, Silver Spoon! The truth is about to be exposed! Get over here! We're starting in like three minutes!

To: Bon Bon
From: Lyra Heartstrings

Sweetie, where are you? I'm in the gym, trying to return your history notes, but the crowd here is so big I can hardly see anything. Just about every student is crowded around this one computer, shouting something about Rainbow Dash? I don't know, but if you're here, hop on one foot so I can see you. Also, because seeing you do that would be adorable.

Oh, wait, their shouting just went from curiously excited to extremely upset really fast. I'm gonna head out before something bad happens. Text me where you are so you can get your notes!

To: Sour Sweet
From: Micro Chips

He SAT on my camera!

Rainbow Dash's dad interrupted my livestream and SAT on my camera!

It was going so perfectly, too. Principal Celestia was in her office, sifting through her paperwork, and Rainbow Dash walked in, saying she needed to "talk." Of course, before we could get any context, stupid Mr. Hothoof burst into the office, kvetching about how his daughter "needs an education" and "should be going to class" so she can fulfill her dreams! Principal Celestia told him to calm down, and that she would explain everything. And then, right as she was about spill the beans, he SAT on my camera! Instead of a live feed exposing the truth, we got to watch the seat of his khakis squirm around uncomfortably, hearing nothing but the sound of his grunts! Obviously you're uncomfortable in that seat! You're sitting on my camera! What's even worse is that when he got up, the camera got stuck to his pants somehow, so now, I can't even get my camera back! No, instead, all I've got is a livestream of whatever his backside can see! UGH!

All our hard work was ruined by a middle-aged man! Think of all the scientific research we could've amassed from that footage! Not to mention, that camera was expensive, and we definitely broke some law breaking into CHS last night. I've never been more upset in my life! Ugh. Sorry to make you come all the way to Canterlot and risk getting arrested just for a failed experiment. It was supposed to be great...

Any chance you could help me break into Rainbow Dash's house to get my camera back?

To: Sunset Shimmer
From: Trixie Lulamoon

Oof. You should be glad you didn't come to the watch party, Sunset. It was not great, nor was it powerful. It was just bad. Instead of finding out why Rainbow Dash is spending so much time in the principal's office, we watched her dad's behind for five minutes. Gross. Seriously, who puts a hidden camera on a chair, of all places? I thought Micro Chips was supposed to be, like, smart or something.

But the awfulness didn't stop there. Since we all skipped homeroom, Miss Cheerliee and Mr. Doodle went looking for us. And when they came to the gym and saw what we were doing, well, let's just say it wasn't pretty. There was a lot of yelling about "boundaries" and "an invasion of privacy" and "student misconduct," none of which I really listened to, to be completely honest. Basically, they're going to talk to Principal Celestia, and on Monday we're going to have yet another assembly about the dangers of gossip and "controlling our impulses". Yawn. The Great and Powerful Trixie does not have time for such infantile conversations when the truth is out there, waiting to be discovered!

Speaking of, now that we know Rainbow Dash is still keeping up with her classes under Celestia's supervision, there's a whole realm of possibilities that open up. Don't hate me for this, but maybe she is in a relationship with Celestia, and the two are "hanging out" when class is happening. Of course, to keep their relationship going, Celestia has to make sure Rainbow doesn't fail school or get expelled. I'm not saying that's the truth, nor will I spread it around the school as such, but it's just a possibility to explore. Think about it.

Ugh, this assembly on Monday is going to be torture.

To: Pinkie Pie
From: Applejack

Well, I'll be. I just don't understand it. Even though the watch party was a bust, and there's a severe reprimanding in store for us at that assembly on Monday, our peers sound more motivated than ever to find out what's happening with Rainbow Dash! I mean, during gym class today, everybody was buzzing with their theories again, as if nothing had even happened this morning! And normally, I'm all for being motivated by your failures, learning from them, and trying again till you get results, but not for this!

I just heard Octavia Melody suggest that Rainbow Dash is Principal Celestia's secret daughter, and they're spending their time in there dealing with those ramifications. Clearly, this has gone way too far.

At least the weekend is finally here. We can take a break from this madness! Because, surely, our peers won't carry their conspiracy theories into our time away from school, right?

Right?

5: Relaxation

To: Applejack, Sunset Shimmer, Twilight Sparkle, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Flash Sentry, +88 others
From: Zephyr Breeze

Why, hello there, fellow students of Canterlot High School. Hope you're enjoying this fine Saturday morning. While at school yesterday, I couldn't help but overhear the commotion surrounding our dear friend, Rainbows. Well, look no further for that beautiful truth, because I, the one and only Zephyr Breeze, have all the answers you're seeking! After all, what kind of boy friend would I be if I didn't know my girl friend's deepest, most darkest secrets?

Course, I'm not gonna give my girl's secrets out all willy-nilly. No, no, no, if you want the answer bird to fly free out of its cage, you gotta do something for me. You see, this may come as a shock to you, but I'm struggling just a tad in my history class. All those long names, foreign places, and life-changing events, well, they just don't stick with me. Help me pass my History test on Monday, and the truth is all yours. Yeah, that's right. It's as simple as tutoring moi. 😉

Hit me up with a DM if you're interested. Only the best of the best will be selected, so come prepared!

To: Fluttershy
From: Rarity

Fluttershy, dearest, explain to me how you and Zephyr Breeze are related. Because you're so kind, sensitive, sweet, and empathetic, and, pardon my French, but he's blegh. Obviously, he doesn't know what's going on with Rainbow, since she utterly despises him. If she won't confess the truth to us, she's definitely not trusting her personal secrets with him. No, I surmise he's just exploiting the school controversy to get free stuff. Sure, for now, it's just History tutoring, but in due time, I'm bet he'll be asking for free food, free rides, free movie tickets, free everything, thinly veiled under the notion of "supplying the truth". You and him are blood, darling. Perhaps you can talk some sense into him?

Oh dear. I pity the poor fools who fall for his tricks.

To: Bon Bon
From: Lyra Heartstrings

O. M. Goodness! Have you read Zephyr Breeze's text? That's the perfect gig for us! We've already been sharing our History notes and studying together. Why not just add him into the mix?

Yes, I know, we don't really care why Rainbow Dash is going to the principal's office so much, and we want to respect her personal life... but aren't you at least the teensiest bit curious? Plus, since Zephyr is sharing his knowledge privately, we'd get the honor of broadcasting it to entire school! Doesn't that sound cool? We could be heroes!

Of course, I wouldn't want to do this without you. Let me know how you feel about it, but don't take too long! I'm sure Zephyr Breeze is getting spammed with messages as we speak!

To: Flash Sentry
From: Micro Chips

I just watched my expensive, top-of-the-line spy camera go into the laundry basket, and I may have shed a tear or two over it. But I was definitely not full-on bawling, regardless of what Sandalwood might tell you. And even if I was, I had the right to do so, since my amazing plan was turned into the butt of a school-wide joke. Pun not intended. That chair had the perfect angle to watch Celestia's desk, okay???

That's not why I messaged you, though. Sandalwood and I have top-secret information to share, for your eyes only. You see, Bow Hothoof is a very oblivious man. That camera was stuck to him for several hours yesterday, and he totally missed it, even when he was scratching his rear end (I know, disgusting, but I had to watch the entire film for research purposes, okay?). So, at about eight o'clock last night, his sink stops working, so he bends over to see what's wrong and fix it. Of course, what he didn't know is, by doing that, he gave me the perfect shot of Rainbow Dash in the next room over! She was standing completely still in front of a mirror, reading aloud from a beige sheet of paper. Unfortunately, Bow's phone was vibrating in his back pocket, so I couldn't hear exactly what she was saying, but I know for a fact she was repeating the same phrase over and over again. Never underestimate the power of lip reading, my friend.

This morning, I called Sandalwood over and the two of us reviewed the footage. Now, I'm not totally on board with this theory yet, but Sandalwood thinks Rainbow Dash is preparing to be initiated into a cult. I know, I know, that sounds preposterous, but, to be fair, there's no evidence disproving that claim. Perhaps Principal Celestia is the cult leader, using her office hours to educate Rainbow Dash on their customs so she can become one of them! We don't know yet, but we intend to find out. We're going to go to the grocery store, buy some snacks, and review the footage one last time, just to make sure there's nothing we missed. Who knows? Maybe Bow was facing the mysterious paper at some point? Or, facing away from it, I guess, but you get my point.

You can't tell this to anybody, okay? We're gonna be the first people to crack this case, I just know it! The truth is OURS!

To: Silver Spoon
From: Diamond Tiara

I can't believe it's finally here! My birthday party is TONIGHT! Even though you haven't been responding to my texts, I'm sending this to you as a reminder to arrive at 5 P.M. so we can have our own private celebration before the guests arrive. And don't forget your sleeping bag. It was already enough of a hassle convincing Mother to make this a sleepover, so try not to blow it, okay?

Oh, did you see Zephyr Breeze's text? Ugh, what a phony. All he knows about Rainbow Dash is how to get rejected by her. He's using her scandal for his own benefit, which, honestly, pathetic. Twist was messaging me, saying he's her new hero, but anyone with half a brain could see through his lies. By the way, speaking of "heroes", I had to uninvite Micro Chips's sister. After he got everyone in trouble yesterday with that mess of watch party, I refuse to have any connection with him. It's like Mother always says: it's not good to associate yourself with problematic people.

One last thing. Since Micro Chips let us all down, Zephyr Breeze is a poser, and Trixie only got us circumstantial evidence, I've decided to take matters into my own hands. For my birthday present, I'm going to ask Father to hire a private investigator to find out the truth about Rainbow Dash. Everyone else is failing horribly at finding the truth, so naturally, we should invest in a professional. But, of course, that's tomorrow's concern. Tonight is all about celebrating ME!

You better arrive on time or I'm eating your slice of cake. See you soon!

To: Sunset Shimmer
From: Pinkie Pie

SUNSET SHIMMER! Did you see?! Did you see the news?! They were doing a story about my favorite Chocolate Coated Caramel Crispy Cookies, so I tuned in, only to find out that they're getting DISCONTINUED! Can you BELIEVE it?! They were a staple of my childhood! Oh my goodness, Sunset, I have to buy ALL of them before the store runs out! AHHHHHHHHHH!!!

Please, please, PLEASE come with me! We can take your car, stuff the trunk with cookies, and listen to PostCrush on the way back. We just HAVE to get those cookies!!!

Text me when you're here, Sunset! And HURRY!!!

To: Bow Hothoof
From: Windy Whistles

Honey, dearest, I just found a spy camera hidden in our laundry basket. Should we be worried? I know every one of Rainbow Dash's belongings, and this is NOT one of them. And, more importantly, should we call the police?

Call me as soon as you get this!

6: Preparation

To: Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, Twilight Sparkle, Pinkie Pie, Sunset Shimmer, Zephyr Breeze, +65 others
From: Trixie Lulamoon

The Great and Powerful Trixie has seen something she needs to share with her fellow peers! Last night, at exactly 8:46 P.M., during my regular nightly stroll, I spotted police cars outside of Rainbow Dash's house! Perhaps this scandal goes far deeper than we had thought! Has she been engaged in illegal activities? Maybe her and Celestia were in a relationship (like I had previously suggested, thank you very much), and got caught! Unfortunately, the police officers weren't willing to answer my inquiries, and escorted me off the premises before I could obtain any information. How rude of them! Don't they know we've got a school-wide conspiracy to unravel?

Anyway, if anyone has a suggestion on how to get out of the terrible assembly tomorrow, please DM me. Somehow, I doubt smoke bombs are the way to go this time around.

To: Rarity
From: Fluttershy

Um, I was going to talk to Zephyr Breeze, but, um, he's currently at Bon Bon's house, so I couldn't. I'm sorry. Um, I hope that's okay.

To: Lyra Heartstrings
From: Bon Bon

Ugh. I know you're sitting across from me, but we need to talk, and if Zephyr finds out what we're saying, this already-bad situation will turn into an absolute disaster. I'm sure we'd both prefer if we could finish this study session with our brains still in tact.

This is going horribly! Zephyr Breeze is totally unteachable! I don't think he's retained a single drop of information this whole time, and we've been helping him for three hours! It's almost like he's trying NOT to learn! Remember when I asked him where the Battle of Canterlot took place, and he said France?! Plus, he's eating me out of house and home! Like, all my cookies are gone, my soda's been consumed, and he stole all my tea bags to make something called "kombucha"?! What even IS kombucha?!

He won't learn, and he's taking all my stuff without asking! Lyra, what do we do? Is the truth worth putting up with this?

Oh no! I think he caught a glimpse of my phone screen! Quick, mission abort! Abort!!!

To: Flash Sentry
From: Sandalwood

Yoooo! Bro, you will NOT believe what happened to Micro Chips and I at the grocery store yesterday! We wanted Chocolate Coated Caramel Crispy Cookies to eat while we watched the spy cam footage, but when we found them, Pinkie and Sunset were at the other end of the aisle, ready to fight for the sole remaining box. It was like one of those trippy old Western showdowns you see in movies. We all RAN for the cookies, then passed around the box like it was a hot potato! It was insane.

At some point, Sunset called out Micro Chips for putting a camera in Celestia's office to spy on her friend, and guess who overheard that from the next aisle? Vice Principal Luna! She was out shopping for her sister, and when she heard what Sunset said, she rushed over to find us. We thought we were in so much trouble, but no! Instead of chastising us, Luna asked what we'd found out! Apparently, she ALSO has no idea what's going on between her sister and Rainbow Dash, and she agreed to help us find the truth! Isn't that great? We have a faculty member on our side now!

Only downside, we didn't get the cookies. But, while Celestia is hosting the assembly tomorrow, Luna's going to have her own private meeting with Rainbow Dash to interrogate the truth out of her! We still have to attend the assembly, though, which meh. You win some, you lost some.

Man, I've never been so excited! Searching for the truth is such an epinephrine-booster! What am I gonna do when this is all over? How am I gonna satisfy this craving? Whoa, I hadn't even thought about that. Whatever. That's future-Sandalwood's problem, not mine!

Whoops, gotta go. Micro Chips is freaking out about something. Text you later.

To: Silver Spoon
From: Diamond Tiara

UGH! That was the WORST. BIRTHDAY. PARTY. EVER!

All anybody wanted to talk about was Rainbow Dash and Principal Celestia! "Oh, I think they're dating." "Oh, I think they're related." "Oh, I think Celestia is helping her with college applications." "Oh, I think Rainbow is too embarrassed to tell her friends she needs time away from them." Ew! Who cares about all that?! The day was supposed to be all about ME, not HER! Ugh! That's why I kicked everyone out after breakfast this morning. I couldn't take it anymore! If they won't celebrate me at my birthday party, they don't deserve to stay in my mansion!

I officially HATE this Rainbow Dash and Principal Celestia scandal! It's ruining my LIFE! First, I get in trouble for watching Micro Chips's livestream, and now I don't even get to have a good birthday party? NO! I'm a member of the Rich Family, and I do not deserve to be treated this way!

Forget hiring a private investigator. I don't care about "the truth" anymore. No, I'm going to show those phony students that you do NOT mess with Diamond Tiara. Just you wait. By tomorrow afternoon, Rainbow Dash won't be the talk of the school anymore. I guarantee it.

To: Fluttershy
From: Rarity

It's okay, Fluttershy, you needn't worry about Zephyr. I'm sure Principal Celestia will knock some sense into him at that dreadful assembly tomorrow morning. Although, one thing, darling, you don't need to type "um" in your text messages. Most people try not to show any signs of hesitation when they text. No, most hesitation comes before and after you hit send.

Anyway, see you tomorrow, lovely!

To: Flash Sentry
From: Micro Chips

HELP WHAT DO I DO

I WAS WATCHING THE NEWEST FOOTAGE AND THE POLICE FOUND THE SPY CAMERA

OH MY GOD THEY CAN TRACE IT BACK TO ME

IM GOING TO JAIL HOW AM I EVER GOING TO GET INTO COLLEGE

HELP

7: Commotion

To: Twilight Sparkle
From: Sunset Shimmer

Wow. I can't believe it's come to this. Here we are, sitting in homeroom, waiting for the bell to ring so we can attend an assembly about the dangers of gossip again. Only, this time, everyone is... excited? Just yesterday, Trixie was complaining about this being "absolute torture she'll never recover from", yet now everyone is happy?

According to Octavia, "the truth" is going to be revealed at the assembly. According to Bulk Biceps, Vice Principal Luna is going to reveal "the truth" after school. According to myself, "the truth" is that I really don't care! This craziness has done nothing but send our school spiraling into madness! People are skipping classes, resorting to spying, and extorting each other for free stuff! Whatever happened to the idea that Wondercolts are supposed to support another and promote friendship? This is NOT the CHS spirit Rainbow Dash wants!

Back at the Friendship Games, she was our unifier. Now, she's our divider.

I just wish we could talk to her again.

To: Flash Sentry
From: Sandalwood

Yo, Flash, bro, I'm really worried about Micro Chips. His aura was totally messed up yesterday, especially after watching that footage of the police putting his camera into an evidence bag. And now, he's not even in school today! Do you think he got arrested? What if he's in juvenile detention?! Oh gosh! Stupid Bow Hothoof and his stupid behind!

Wait a second. This is all MY fault! Bow Hothoof came to the school and sat on the camera because I emailed him and told him Rainbow Dash wasn't going to class! Oh no. Oh no! What was I thinking?! I was so obsessed with getting the truth, I didn't even CONSIDER the consequences! And now, my best friend is in jail, and it's all because of ME!

Oh man. I think I need to take a minute to clear my head. Tell Miss Cheerilee I've gone to the bathroom, okay? I'll be back before the assembly.

To: Bon Bon
From: Lyra Heartstrings

Grrrrrr. I still can't believe what happened last night. We studied for ten hours straight, sacrificing both sleep and food, and we got NOTHING from Zephyr! No truth. No hints. Not even a mention of Rainbow Dash! Let's face it, he used us, Sweetie! He used us like toilet paper! We served his needs and he threw us away! (Although, thinking it over, he's probably still going to fail his History test, so maybe we can find some solace in that.) Ugh, I'm so mad! I guess we're not gonna be the Canterlot High School's new heroes...

WHOA. Bon Bon, have you seen the hallway?! Come outside now!

To: Sunset Shimmer
From: Twilight Sparkle

Sunset, are you seeing this?! This wasn't here when we went to homeroom, was it? Every single locker has one! What's going on?!

To: Sandalwood
From: Flash Sentry

Is this a part of the assembly?! If so, NOT COOL, Principal Celestia! Now the whole school is going to know that my hair is actually PINK!

To: Applejack
From: Rarity

Okay, Applejack, haha, soooo funny! I get you were upset that I wanted to know the truth about Rainbow Dash, but did you really have to hang up that picture of me with a MULLET from 7th grade? And don't lie, I know it was you! You're the only one I've EVER shown that picture to! I trusted you!

To: Fluttershy
From: Pinkie Pie

Oh, hey, look. It's that picture of my tongue stuck to a pole. What's that doing on my locker?

To: Silver Spoon
From: Diamond Tiara

Turns out, being the Queen Bee has its perks.

Pulling this off was so easy. Rainbow Dash has the right idea, not telling anyone what's happening, because when you share your deeply personal secrets with other people, they tend to get... revealed at some point or another. Really, an anonymous source said one bad thing about Zephyr, and suddenly, I had the tools to set off a whole chain of blackmails. Zephyr says something bad about Bulk, Bulk complains about Flash, Flash complains about Sandalwood, etc. Then, all I had to do was wait until homeroom started, print out the pictures/secrets, and tape them onto their respective lockers. Yes, I did all of that and still had time to post a selfie on SnapGab, because I'm a boss and everyone needs to know it.

Really, though. How ironic is this? Our peers will spend days trying to expose "the truth" about someone else, but when their own truth is at stake, they'll throw anyone under the bus to protect it. Now, they can watch as the weight of their actions crumbles before them. Ha. Honestly, I think I did a better job teaching them a lesson than ANY assembly could. You do NOT mess with the happiness of Diamond Tiara.

Oh, by the way, we're having a redo-birthday party at my house next Saturday. Be there or be square!

To: Sunset Shimmer
From: Fluttershy

Um, can you tell me when the commotion is over? When everyone started yelling at each other, I hid in the first floor girl's bathroom with Roseluck and Violet Blurr, and now we're just shivering on the floor. The hostility out there is way too much to handle! I think a fight broke out!

To: Fluttershy
From: Zephyr Breeze

fluttershy! fluteershy oyu have to halp me! buk biceps is chasing em and i don't know what to do! please give ne shelkter!!! hes gonnabeatme up!!

sorrt its hard to runa nd text at the same time

oh curd another fight broek out gottago

To: Lyra Heartstrings
From: Bon Bon

Oh, dear. Did you hear Principal Celestia's voice on the loudspeaker? We're all screwed. It's time to head to the assembly in the auditorium, also known as our place of death. It was really nice knowing you, Lyra. I will always cherish the moments we had together.

Except the Zephyr Breeze ones. I would happily forget those.

8: Revelation

To: Rainbow Dash
From: Principal Celestia

Dear Rainbow Dash,

I feel as if I owe you an apology. This project was supposed to be a simple surprise for your classmates. You'd learn your lines, film the video, then head back to your classes by Tuesday. There weren't supposed to be any complications. After all, I had no reason to anticipate the violent reaction your fellow peers would have to your absence. Yet, here we are.

Micro Chips hid a camera in my office to spy on us. The police caught him, and now he's in out-of-school suspension for a week. Zephyr Breeze manipulated several classmates into giving him their belongings, pretending like he knew what your peers refer to as "the truth". Your own friends, Applejack and Rarity, began arguing because one wanted to know and the other didn't. The whole school fell into CHAOS, all because you were in my office.

And then, there's Diamond Tiara. I almost want to applaud her, because she's the only one who tried to put an end to this madness. But at the same time, she just made it worse. She exposed the secrets of almost every other student, humiliating them and starting at least three fights in the hallway. Her actions are inexcusable, but so are the actions of every student who exposed another to save their own hide. Not once in my entire career have I had to make a list of students who need to be written up. In fact, this time, it's easier to make a list of students don't need to be written up. That's how far this situation spiraled out of control.

To be frank, I am utterly appalled at the actions of your peers. When I reached out to you to film this "Welcome to Canterlot High" video, it was because I had full pride in our Wondercolts. I thought we had a school full of students who regularly practice the magic of friendship and spread its ideals wherever they go. This video was meant to be a pleasant surprise for them, celebrating the wonderful things they've accomplished and the fantastic people they've become. Of course, I see now that the words on the script I gave you are false, and perhaps our students are not worthy of the praise we were planning to give them. If this is how they treated each other, how they treat you, then clearly, I have failed as the principal of this school. I'm sorry, but I'm cancelling the project.

When you get the chance, I would suggest you thank Sunset Shimmer, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, and Twilight Sparkle. They are the only students who truly stayed out of this. None of them tried to invade your privacy, and none of them encouraged their fellow peers to find "the truth" out for them. Also, thank Vice Principal Luna. She caught wind of this faster than I did, and, over the weekend, pretended to be on the students' side to learn much of the information I have just relayed to you. Micro Chips and Sandalwood confessed all the secrets, theories, and drama to her on Saturday, so without her, we would not have learned about Zephyr Breeze, who hid the camera, etc.

Again, Rainbow Dash, I am so sorry. This is my fault for not better educating my students on the values of friendship. You deserve to be treated better than the way they've treated you.

Sincerely,

Principal Celestia

To: Applejack, Rarity, Micro Chips, Diamond Tiara, Sandalwood, Zephyr Breeze, +89 others
From: Rainbow Dash

Wow. Just wow. I can't believe all of you. I leave you guys alone for ONE week, and THIS is what you get into?

Principal Celestia told me everything, and you all should be ashamed. We were creating a special video to surprise you and celebrate us as Wondercolts, but now, I'm not even proud to be a Wondercolt. Why did it even matter why I went to the principal's office? Did it affect you? No! Instead of just respecting my privacy and letting me do this, all you did was cause trouble for everyone.

Micro Chips, you embarrassed my dad and sent both of my parents into a frenzy of fear. Zephyr Breeze, you are NOT my boyfriend, and destroyed any chance you had at ever becoming my boyfriend (not that you had a chance to begin with). Trixie, because of your rumors, I was getting spammed with texts about my "relationship with Celestia" in the middle of the night! Diamond Tiara, you went way out of line because of jealousy. And Rarity, I can't believe you, one of my best friends, was on board with all of this! All of you, turning my secrets into a watch party? Seriously? That makes me sick! Canterlot High School, this project was for YOU, and you ruined it.

But I'm not the one who needs an apology the most. No, that "honor" goes to Principal Celestia. She trusted you, believed in you, loved you, and you let her down! I know she's chewing you out at the assembly as I'm typing this, but once it's over, and you serve whatever punishment she has coming your way, you owe her the biggest apology in the history of the world. Just... don't let Zephyr Breeze come up with it, since he clearly doesn't know his history.

Starting tomorrow, I'll be back in class, since my video project was cancelled. And instead of hearing rumors about ME or what I'M going to do, I better be hearing about how you're going to make this up to Principal Celestia. Because SHE deserves better.

Come on, team. Show us what it really means to be a Wondercolt.

To: Sunset Shimmer, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Twilight Sparkle
From: Rainbow Dash

Hey, girls. Sorry I haven't really been in contact with you lately. As I'm sure you've heard by now, I was working with Celestia to film a "Welcome to Canterlot High" video. It would've celebrated our current students as Wondercolts, and also would've been shown to future generations as a way to showcase how special our school is. That's why I said it was "good"! Except, now, it's not even going to happen.

I had to get taken out of class to review my script, revise some details, rehearse, and other stuff like that. And, at the climax of the video, I was going to give an improvised speech about how important friendship is at CHS. To make it as authentic as possible, I chose to separate myself from everyone for a week, just to see what life without friendship was like, and how having friends enhanced my life and made it better. I'm sorry I left you in the dark, but, as I'm sure Sci-Twi would agree, the experiment probably wouldn't have worked as well if you all had known.

Of course, the whole school scandal kind of ruined everything, but if there's one thing I learned while making the video, it's that you guys are the most AWESOME friends a girl could ever have! I felt so lonely without you! It sucked having no one to talk to or hang out with! But that's all over now. I'll be back in school tomorrow, and I can't wait to be friends with you again.

Thanks for being awesome and not hunting for "the truth". It means a lot to know I can trust you. Hopefully, the rest of our class will see the error of their ways soon.

You're the truest Wondercolts of them all.

9: Repercussion

To: Bon Bon
From: Lyra Heartstrings

Yikes.

That assembly was just... yikes. I can't think of any other word to describe it. Who knew Principal Celestia could get so vulgar? And who knew people's faces could turn so red? I haven't seen anyone that angry since the cafeteria took red velvet cookies off the menu. Gosh. If we thought those were dark times, then this is the APOCALYPSE!

We did this, Bon Bon. We wanted to become heroes, yet all we did was feed into a school-wide conspiracy that destroyed our principal. She believed in us. She trusted us. She wanted to do something nice for us. And we totally let her down! I've never been so ashamed in my life. This feels awful! First, Zephyr uses us, and now this happens... We've really hit a new low.

I'm just amazed Celestia didn't punish us. Although, now that I think about, effectively punishing 99% of the student body sounds impossible... And, honestly, this crushing grief might be punishment enough. Seriously, how are we supposed to attend class after all that yikes? Couldn't she have just called an emergency half-day? We really need it.

This afternoon is gonna suck.

To: Rarity, Diamond Tiara, Sandalwood, Micro Chips, Flash Sentry, Bulk Biceps, +57 others
From: Trixie Lulamoon

Are you kidding me? A "Welcome to CHS" video? That's what all this commotion was about? Nuh-uh! I refuse to accept that phony explanation! We spent so much time and effort on this! Where's the payoff? Where's the satisfaction of knowing the truth? What was the point of all this drama, if The Great and Powerful Trixie never got to say "I told you so"?!

It doesn't even make any sense. If they were working on a "special school project" together, then how come they didn't just say that? Why keep such a normal thing from us? Not to mention, that doesn't explain the excessive amount of time Rainbow Dash spent in the principal's office. Couldn't she have just learned her lines at home? After school? Over the weekend? Why did she need to be in Celestia's office, missing countless hours of class, for such a simple task? Honestly, it seems like most of their work could have been accomplished through an email! And, on top of that, why keep calling Rainbow down on the PA system? One of them had to have realized we'd get suspicious after, like, the fourth time! Why did they keep drawing attention to it? Truly, Celestia's explanation was worse than my disappearing textbook trick. And that's saying something, believe me.

I think we've been lied to. Yeah, that's right. I think this "making a video" story is a cover-up! This is a puzzle with missing pieces, people! Rainbow and Celestia must be hiding something bigger than this. A secret relationship, perhaps, like I've been suggesting for days? Or maybe... it's even deeper than that! Regardless, I have every reason to believe we're being fed fake news to satiate our hunger for the truth, and I will not stand for it!

The real truth must come out! If we stick together and combat everything the school system throws at us, then we will find the answers we deserve! There's no more hiding, Principal Celestia. The revolution has begun!

#RainbowGate

To: Captain Planet
From: Flash Sentry

Wow, Trixie just got called down to the principal's office. Think it was about that ridiculous mass text she sent out earlier? Probably, right? I wonder who ratted her out...

Actually, never mind, I don't. My mind has had more than enough drama for one day.

To: Micro Chips
From: Sandalwood

DUDE! Thank goodness you're okay! I've been so worried! When you weren't in homeroom this morning, my brain jumped to the worst case scenario. But, luckily, you were only suspended! That's way better than getting arrested, right? Although, knowing your parents, they probably confiscated your electronics... which means you're probably not going to get this text for a while... whatever. You're a tech wizard. You'll find a way.

Being trapped at home must be such a bummer, but I'm sure it's better than what we're experiencing over here. Everyone's vibes are totally jacked up today. Diamond Tiara put all these incriminating photos and secrets on everyone's lockers, and a bunch of fights broke out. Don't worry ⁠— yours was just a baby photo. Of you. In a sink. Naked. Not that bad, right? Other folks weren't so lucky, though. Like Rarity ⁠— she had a mullet in 7th grade? Blegh! The picture is absolutely horrifying. I'll send it to you later, but be warned: once you see it, you can never look at Rarity in the same light. Never.

You know what really sucks, though? Diamond Tiara got all those images from us! Our peers exposed each other to keep their own secrets hidden... and now nobody wants to talk to each other. Legit. Since leaving the assembly, I've heard four words spoken aloud and they were, "get away from me". Not exactly the warmest sentiment.

And, of course, finding out the truth didn't help matters. Now everyone just feels terrible (except for Trixie, who's still in denial). We besmirched the Wondercolt name, hurt our fellow classmates, and caused Principal Celestia to hate us. Anytime her or Rainbow Dash is in the hallway, everyone else just turns and bolts. Normally I can sense a certain sort of energy surrounding people, but today, all I can sense is shame. Nobody wants to be here. No one can even look each other in the eyes.

I feel so guilty. The two of us especially were horrible to Rainbow Dash. Like, you used a security camera to spy on her, while I brought her dad into the mix and egged you on. Everything we did was clearly bad, and yet, we just sat down, laughed, and had a good time watching footage of Bow Hothoof's butt. Seriously, what happened to us? Where did our morals go? We never cared about how Rainbow Dash or her family felt. We only cared about finding "the truth". Do you know how wrong that sounds? Ugh. This is not the person I want to be, Micro Chips. It's just not.

We have to find a way to redeem ourselves and make amends with the people we've hurt. I know you're currently suspended, but whenever you get the chance, please call me. Maybe, just maybe, we can make this right together.

To: Rainbow Dash
From: Sunset Shimmer

Wow! Let me tell you, it feels incredible to hear your voice again after all this time! Well, to read a text in your voice, but you get my drift.

I've missed you so much, Dash! These past few days have been insane without you. School scandal aside, even simple things like having lunch felt wrong when you weren't there. It was hard to focus in class, hard to hang out with the others... nothing felt right. So, if I've learned anything this past week, it's that all our lives are much better with you in them.

That being said, I wish you had given us a hint or something ahead of this. When you ghosted us and then disappeared, we were really worried something awful had happened. Of course, we're relieved you're okay, but a heads-up still would've been nice. I'm not mad ⁠— you've always been one to take your passions a bit too far — just a little confused, I guess? Sure, your experiment might have given you a more heartfelt speech for the video, but at what cost?

Look. I am not defending the school in any way when I say this. I think they were so wrong to invade your privacy and turn this whole thing into a massive spectacle. But also, remember, our student body has been through some traumatic times. I turned into a raging she-demon and possessed them, the Dazzlings hypnotized them into hating each other, Twilight turned into another she-demon and almost broke our world, and Gloriosa Daisy trapped them at Camp Everfree. It's been rough!

For some reason, things just have a tendency to go wrong with this group of people. And to them, you going to the principal's office was the start of yet another wrong thing. With all the trouble we've faced, I can't exactly blame them for freaking out about this one. Obviously, it escalated and they took it waaaaaay too far, but maybe it wasn't entirely coming from a place of malice. Think about that.

Anyway, I gotta go. Rarity and Applejack aren't talking to each other, so Twilight and I are gonna help them. Let's meet in-person later. I miss seeing your face.

To: Applejack, Sunset Shimmer, Twilight Sparkle, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, +106 others
From: Zephyr Breeze

Fellow students of Canterlot High! Listen. I know these are dark times filled with betrayal, deception, sadness, and guilt. I know many of you are questioning who you are and what you've done. And I know I am definitely the last person you wanted to get a text from right now. But please, don't delete this number just yet. I have something to say, and it might just surprise you.

I know we're doing the whole "not talking to each other" thing at the moment, and that's cool... Except it's not. It's lame and it's unproductive. Sure, we screwed up (myself included ⁠— see Rainbows, I'm big enough to admit my faults), but that doesn't mean we should be clinging onto all those bad vibrations! No, we should be making the best out of a bad situation!

So here's my proposal: tomorrow night, after school, every single person who has received this message comes over to my place. But I'm not throwing a party ⁠— no, no, no, I'm throwing a get-together where we hash out all our problems and find solutions. Think of it as a group forum! We can talk about the locker crisis, how we hurt each other's feelings, and engage in the process of forgiving. We can talk about "the truth", everything we've done wrong, and how we can make it up to Principal Celestia. It's the perfect place to air your grievances with each other (and with yourselves) in front of a live audience! All our problems solved in one night — doesn't that sound great?!

Oh, by the way, there will be free pizza. Yeah, it's that serious. So be there or be square!

To: Lyra Heartstrings
From: Bon Bon

Excuse me, did I read that right? Is Zephyr Breeze trying to be the voice of reason?! What?! This cannot end well.

You bet I'm going to that party tomorrow.

10: Discussion

To: Fluttershy
From: Rarity

Fluttershy, darling, could you please talk some sense into your brother? This whole "get-together" idea is dreadfully inane, and an obvious recipe for disaster. You can't bring hundreds of people together and just expect them to talk about their feelings! We have a hard enough time talking about our feelings when we're alone! It's simply not going to work. Please, just this once, save Zephyr Breeze the embarrassment of another failed scheme.

And... perhaps it's selfish, but I really cannot attend an event like his this evening. Both Applejack and Rainbow Dash will be there, and we're not on speaking terms. Plus, the moment I step into your house, everyone's going to mock me for that mullet photo! Ugh, just typing those words made me gag! That picture already killed my popularity. I can't let it kill a perfectly good Tuesday night, too! Of course, I know my peers, so if I don't show up when everyone else does, it will just add fuel to their fire of scorn! Unless this get-together is cancelled, it's a lose-lose situation for me.

So, please, talk to your brother. My heart can't take much more of this humiliation.

To: Silver Spoon
From: Diamond Tiara

Ugh! Father is forcing me to go to that idiotic get-together tonight. It's so annoying! According to him, it might be good for me to "get some perspective" and "realize the consequences of my actions". Um, hello? Obviously, I know the consequences of my actions. That's why I revealed everyone's secrets in the first place! Parents never understand, do they?

Why am I getting punished for this? Sure, maybe a couple of fights broke out because of my stunt, but it's not like I set the school on fire! Everyone was already being a jerk to Rainbow Dash; I just exposed them all as hypocrites! They did this to themselves, not me.

Whatever. Even though Mother already cancelled my second birthday party, Father clearly thinks I need even more punishment, so now I'm stuck going to this stupid event. Ugh! Tonight's gonna be a total dumpster fire. At least I'll get to wear a cute outfit while it burns...

To: Micro Chips
From: Sandalwood

Dude, I'm so bummed you won't be able to make Zephyr Breeze's party tonight. It's, like, the exact opportunity we've been waiting for! A whole night to talk about our mistakes, brainstorm solutions, and eat free pizza with friends... doesn't that sound like a dream? The hype is real, man! I'll be sure to keep you updated.

Really wish you could join us, though. Huh. If only you could sneak a security camera into Fluttershy's house and watch the party on your laptop. Wouldn't that be neat? Hahahaha!

...Too soon?

To: Applejack, Sunset Shimmer, Twilight Sparkle, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, +106 others
From: Zephyr Breeze

Hello, beautiful souls of Canterlot High School! This is a friendly reminder that the "First Annual CHS Get-Together", hosted by yours truly, starts in half an hour! That's right, thirty minutes. Now, I don't expect guests to bring anything, but, if someone potentially wanted to supply chips, guacamole, salsa, cupcakes, cookies, popcorn, wings, hummus, or fries, I certainly wouldn't say no!

See you soon, folks!

To: Pinkie Pie
From: Twilight Sparkle

Hey, where are you? I just arrived at the get-together, but I can't find any of our friends. It's so crowded! Fluttershy's house is way too small to fit the entire student body! We should've done this at your place instead.

Oh, Zephyr Breeze is ushering everyone into the basement. Maybe we'll see each other there.

To: Silver Spoon
From: Diamond Tiara

Eww, he's bringing everyone into his creepy basement? If this party turns into anything resembling a murder or a cult, the Shy Family will be hearing from our lawyers!

To: Micro Chips
From: Sandalwood

UPDATE: Zephyr just established some basic rules for the night:

1. Everyone has to sit in a circle.

2. If you want to speak, you must stand up, move to the center, and address everyone.

3. You're free to talk about anything relating to the school scandal or its aftermath.

Now he's encouraging us to get whatever's bothering us off our chests. Looking forward to a productive evening!

To: Bon Bon
From: Lyra Heartstrings

Eek, this is even worse than yesterday's assembly! Nobody wants to stand up and talk, and it's making me really uncomfortable. You know how much I hate awkward silences! They're so disconcerting. Every time they happen, I feel like running away and never looking back! That better not happen tonight!!!

I'm starting to think this get-together was a mistake. The pizza hasn't arrived yet, and the only snacks are veggie straws. Seriously, what kind of party doesn't have Sour Cream and Onion chips?! If nobody talks soon, I think we should leave. I'm getting a bad feeling about this thing...

To: Fluttershy
From: Zephyr Breeze

Sis, please, throw me a bone! I forgot to order the pizzas (also, I'm broke), so if we don't get some conversation going, this whole night will be a bust! Go on up there and speak your beautiful heart out!

To: Captain Planet
From: Flash Sentry

Holy crap! Who knew Fluttershy had such a foul mouth?! She's totally obliterating us right now! I thought she was all timid and quiet! When did she become so assertive?!

They should call her Fluttercry... because that's what she's making me do...

To: Silver Spoon
From: Diamond Tiara

Oh, great. Another one of Canterlot High's heroes is chewing us out for our wrongdoings. Yawn. Really, how is another reprimanding supposed to help anyone? If these girls want to teach us a lesson, they'll need to think outside the box. Like I did.

Also, if I don't get that pizza soon, I will be calling our lawyers.

To: Sunset Shimmer
From: Applejack

Golly! I love Fluttershy as much as the next person, but yellin' at everyone probably ain't the best start to this night. Our peers already know they've done wrong, so if we wanna fix this whole mess, we need a unifying voice. Like yours! Please, hop into the center of that circle and get our class on track!

Uh-oh. Trixie is standing up.

To: Micro Chips
From: Sandalwood

UPDATE: All hope for a calm, productive evening just got thrown out the window. After Fluttershy berated everyone (and then profusely apologized, since she made Flash cry), Trixie decided she would be our second speaker. Yeah, the energy in the room just got real jacked up.

I'm trying to tune her out, but we all know Trixie is a force of nature. As expected, she's spewing out everything she sent in that mass text yesterday. The only difference now is that Rainbow Dash is here to listen. More details soon.

To: Lyra Heartstrings
From: Bon Bon

No way. Did Rainbow Dash really just shake her head? After all that? Trixie accused her of lying to the entire student body, yet she chooses not to comment or defend herself? What does this mean? If Dash was telling the truth, she could've easily shut Trixie down. But she didn't even try to argue... Is there more to this story than we think?

Wow, I really wish we had some popcorn for this. Meanwhile, we don't even have the pizza we were promised...

To: Twilight Sparkle
From: Sunset Shimmer

I cannot believe I'm saying this after everything we've been through, but could Trixie possibly be right? Rainbow Dash isn't acting like herself, even though "the truth" is out. Watch her for thirty seconds, and you'll see the telltale signs of discomfort: shifting in her seat, avoiding eye contact, passing on the veggie straws, etc. Not to mention, we all know she'd challenge Trixie after such an incriminating speech. Something's wrong with her, I can feel it. But what?

To: Pinkie Pie
From: Rarity

Aaaaaand, there it is. The mockery has begun. Sandalwood must think it's soooo funny to bring up my mullet after Trixie's scathing accusations. Well, it's not! I am very upset! It's about time someone taught that tree hugger a lesson...

To: Micro Chips
From: Sandalwood

UPDATE: Rarity is kind of a tool! I brought up that hilarious picture of her to lighten the mood after Trixie's dramatic speech, and she just went off on me! Seriously, she really brought up our birdhouse from the Friendship Games. That's such a low blow! I chose not to respond and amplify her negative energy, but dude... I was fuming on the inside.

Can't believe I was excited to come here tonight. The only saving grace is the pizza... oh, wait, there isn't any! Worst. Party. Ever.

To: Silver Spoon
From: Diamond Tiara

Wow. Sandalwood really opened a can of worms by bringing up that mullet. Once again, everyone's at each other's throats over their little secrets. They're never going to get anything done tonight, are they? Ugh. I warned Father that this would happen, but did he listen? Of course not.

At least nobody's blaming me for this mess. They did this to themselves, and they know it.

To: Fluttershy
From: Zephyr Breeze

Everything is fine. I'm not worried. No siree, this is great! I organized this get-together so we could talk about our problems. And guess what? We're doing that! Everything is fine. Sure, everyone's yelling and talking over each other and not standing up when they're speaking, but those are just minor inconveniences, right? Everything is fine. I'm definitely not terrified of a fight breaking out. And I certainly don't have the police on speed dial! No, everything is fine, sis. Everything is gonna be just fine!

To: Micro Chips
From: Sandalwood

UPDATE: Chaos! Applejack is yelling at Rarity for invading Rainbow Dash's privacy. Rarity is yelling at Applejack for sending Diamond Tiara the mullet picture. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo are screaming. Flash is crying in the corner. Sunset Shimmer is waving her arms around, trying to calm everyone down. Bulk Biceps tried to punch Zephyr Breeze! People are starting to run out of the basement! Trixie is throwing smoke bombs! Diamond Tiara is just laughing! It's INSANITY!

Tell my family I love them, dude. I don't know if I'm making it home tonight!

To: Bon Bon
From: Lyra Heartstrings

Umm, did you hear that? Was that Rainbow Dash?! Is she okay?

To: Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, Twilight Sparkle, Pinkie Pie, Sunset Shimmer, Zephyr Breeze, +65 others
From: Trixie Lulamoon

Everyone who left, come back! The commotion's over, and now Rainbow Dash says she wants "to set the record straight and end our mindless drama". We're about to find out the truth. For real. HURRY BACK!!!

To: Micro Chips
From: Sandalwood

UPDATE: This has now become the worst night of my life.

In the midst of all our chaos, Rainbow Dash stood up and yelled "STOP!" Everyone fighting just froze, and everyone who had left came rushing back inside. After we re-formed our circle, Dash went to the center and told us the truth. The real truth.

Turns out, the video project was real. Principal Celestia had approached RD about making a "Welcome to Canterlot High" video two weeks ago, and she eagerly accepted the job. There were only supposed to be two meetings in the principal's office, though ⁠— one at the beginning for script adjustments, and one at the end to review the final project. Dash had planned to do most of the work at home, after school, or during study hall. Except... one week later, her grandmother passed away.

It was a shock to the whole family. None of them had expected it to happen so soon, and it really hit them hard. "Absolutely devastating" was the phrase Dash used. But, despite that, she decided to come to school the next day. Being at home while her parents were planning the funeral was just too depressing. And, since she didn't want everyone crowding around her, telling her how sorry they were, how bad they felt, and putting her in a vulnerable position... she just didn't tell anyone what happened.

She thought coming to school would provide a good distraction, but she found herself unable to focus in class. So, she emailed Principal Celestia, told her what was happening, and asked to be sent to the principal's office so she didn't run out of her class in tears. Together, they worked out a deal: Rainbow Dash would spend the next few days isolated in the office until she felt better and was able to properly attend class again. To pass the time, she worked on parts of the video, which cheered her up and took her mind off of more troubling matters. She said those moments planning the project were the happiest she had felt since her grandma's death. Working on something good made her feel good.

Of course, then the school scandal happened. She knew confronting it would only add to her stress, so she chose to stay silent and deal with the situation as best as she could. Remember when Trixie did recon in the principal's office? Turns out Rainbow Dash hid from her because she was in tears and didn't want to be seen. And she didn't tell her parents about the new arrangement, so when I brought Bow Hothoof in, he was genuinely shocked and concerned about his daughter.

As for the PA system? Rainbow Dash wasn't allowed to be alone in the principal's office, so whenever Celestia left, she would have to relocate. Simply put, Celestia was using the speakers to call her back, since her phone stopped working. She wished it would've been more private, but at the time, it seemed like the only option.

Basically, this whole school scandal we've been obsessed with? It was really just Rainbow Dash sheltering herself because she was mourning the loss of a family member and wasn't comfortable telling anyone about it. There was no secret relationship, no cult, nothing. Dash wanted to be alone and sort through her feelings by herself... and we all totally intruded on that.

So, yeah... the night has taken a turn. We've ended up right back where we started. Everyone's sitting in a circle. Nobody wants to talk. No one can even look each other in the eyes, especially Rainbow Dash. It's just... silence. Awkward, awkward silence.

And now Lyra just ran out of the room. Yikes.

To: Sunset Shimmer
From: Twilight Sparkle

I can't believe this. My heart is broken. Rainbow must be in so much pain, and we just forced her to face that in front of an audience. She must be traumatized!

Even though she made up the whole "video experiment" thing, I'm not upset. She needed time to herself, away from us, and that's okay. I just hope she knows that we're here whenever she's ready to talk.

To: Fluttershy
From: Zephyr Breeze

Goodness gracious. It's been a full five minutes since anyone spoke. We've got to save this night somehow. Any ideas?

To: Silver Spoon
From: Diamond Tiara

Am I a bad person? Answer truthfully. Because now that I've heard the truth, my heart feels like it's melting. Ever since this scandal started, I've only added fuel to the fire. No, scratch that. I dropped a whole ton of gasoline into the fire! Rainbow Dash is grieving, and what have I done to help her? Absolutely nothing! Maybe Mother and Father were right about punishing me...

Oh no, I just realized — that "Welcome to CHS" video was the only thing making Rainbow Dash happy, and now it's cancelled! Because of us! We did this! I did this! This is all my fault!

Silver Spoon, please reply to this message. I need an answer. Am I a bad person?

To: Bon Bon
From: Lyra Heartstrings

Don't worry. I only made it across the street, and I promise I'm coming back. Sorry for the scare, but you know how awkward silence gets to me.

Hold on a second. Is that a tambourine I'm hearing?

To: Micro Chips
From: Sandalwood

UPDATE: Wow. What a night.

After Rainbow Dash spilled her guts, it seemed like the party was over. The vibe was dead, and nobody knew what to say or how to feel or what to do. Then, out of nowhere, Fluttershy grabbed her tambourine and started making a beat. Obviously, everyone was confused. We had just had a sick bombshell dropped on us; how was this supposed to help? But Twilight and Sunset started clapping along. Then Pinkie joined in. Then Zephyr, Flash, Lyra and Bon Bon, Rarity and Applejack, Diamond Tiara... and finally, Rainbow Dash herself. Soon, the whole school was just clapping in the basement! (Side note: the acoustics in there were wild.)

And then we started chanting. Not in a creepy cult way, but like, an inspiring a cappella sort of thing. Remember that assembly before the Friendship Games, where RD inspired us to take on the Shadowbolts? It was that.

Na, na, na-na-na-na, Wondercolts united together

Na, na, na-na-na-na, Wondercolts united forever!

We were singing and clapping along with the tambourine for a solid minute when Rainbow Dash joined in with the chorus.

We'll always be Wondercolts forever

And now our time has finally arrived

Cause we believe in the magic of friendship

And you know, at the end of the day...

We all sang the last line together. "It is we who survive!" And, suddenly, the energy in the room just totally shifted. Like, some kind of magical force possessed us or something. Everyone just started laughing and hugging and crying and singing... It was like this perfect moment in time, Micro Chips. Really wish you had been there to experience it.

I don't think we solved many of our problems tonight, if any of them. There's still animosity between certain students, everyone feels immensely guilty for hurting Rainbow Dash, and we didn't even begin to discuss apologizing to Celestia. But after we were done singing and crying, that magical feeling didn't go away. No, the get-together actually transformed into a sleepover (slash proper party). Now, instead of talking about our problems, we're singing karaoke, playing video games, and building pillow forts... It is honestly incredible.

A lot of mistakes were made among the student body, and we're definitely not good. But after today, we're just a little bit better. And that has to count for something.

Oh, I almost forgot to mention — the pizza finally showed up! It was, like, an hour late, but we still enjoyed that cheesy goodness as a school. Man, I wish you could've been there. It was a night to remember.

To: Zephyr Breeze
From: Micro Chips

Hey, Zephyr. Don't worry about paying me back for the pizza; it's my treat. Just one thing, though: please don't tell anyone that I sent it — you're the one who came up with this wonderful get-together idea, and you deserve to take the credit. Go and be the hero for once. You deserve it.

Enjoy the pizza, and have a great night.

12: Proposition

To: Twilight Sparkle
From: Sunset Shimmer

Wow, talking to Rainbow Dash felt really good. Even though I totally understand why she needed time to herself, I'm glad she finally opened up to us. Gotta applaud her bravery. Revealing the truth at the get-together must've been hard, but it's led to some good things. Hopefully Dash knows that we're here for her... whenever she's ready, of course.

Plus, it had been over a week since all seven of us were together, and I'd really missed our group hugs. The moment was just... perfect. Well, almost perfect. Kinda wish Rarity and Applejack would've talked more. If you ask me, their whole mullet drama has been blown way out of proportion. Applejack needs to apologize for sharing the picture, and Rarity needs to stop being so petty. It's just a hairstyle ⁠— who cares? At least they both apologized to Rainbow Dash. That's a step in the right direction, I guess.

Still, we need a way to save their friendship, Twilight. Any ideas?

To: Captain Planet
From: Flash Sentry

Whoa, do you smell that? Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Big Mac, and Bon Bon are cooking up a Smorgasbord in there! It feels like my nostrils are in heaven! Between the baked ziti and the burgers, our team of chefs have really outdone themselves! Rumor has it Pinkie Pie even found an online recipe for homemade Chocolate Coated Caramel Crispy Cookies! Isn't that amazing? This brunch is gonna be spectacular!

Also, Diamond Tiara's perked up. I never approached her (felt too awkward), but it looked like she had an "a-ha" moment right after I texted you. Now she's pacing around the yard, muttering something under her breath. I wonder what that's all about?

To: Micro Chips
From: Sandalwood

UPDATE: Diamond Tiara might just be a genius!

So, the Wonder-cult conglomerated in the backyard at three to enjoy our brunch (which was closer to linner, but who cares? Food is food). And, dude, it was incredible! There were sandwiches, wings, fries, slices of pizza, and just about everything but the kitchen sink! I pocketed, like, twelve homemade Chocolate Coated Caramel Crispy Cookies, so you and I are gonna have a feast the next time we see each other!

But I'm getting off-topic. Everyone was eating, socializing, and having a great time, when suddenly — midway through my third bowl of guacamole ⁠— Diamond Tiara hopped up onto a lawn chair and shouted "EVERYBODY, QUIET"! At first, I thought she was gonna try and drive everyone apart again. But instead, she had an amazing suggestion.

"Let's make the 'Welcome to Canterlot High' video together as a school!"

DUDE! It's the perfect idea! Think about it: Principal Celestia cancelled the video because we failed as Wondercolts and divided ourselves. What better way to make amends with her than uniting as a school to create a project that showcases our pride? Ever since the get-together, we've been slowly regaining our school spirit — apologizing for our wrongdoings, forgiving each other, forgiving ourselves ⁠— and this is the perfect opportunity for us to prove that, even though we may have messed up, the Wonder-cult is still a positive community of love, friendship, and support. Diamond Tiara even proposed that we dedicate the video to Dash's late grandmother. Everyone agreed without hesitation.

We're all eager to show our Wondercolt pride to Celestia, and there's no real reason to wait, so we've decided to make the video tonight. Breaking into the school should be no problem — after all, you did it to hide the spy camera — and Rainbow Dash already has the script. All we need to do is divvy up the lines and film! Diamond Tiara also made a point of making sure every student is included, so we're each gonna make a short speech about what it means to be a Wondercolt and what we've learned throughout this crazy experience. It's going to be RAD!

Right now, everyone's calling their parents to explain why they're not coming home tonight. Hopefully they'll understand that it's for a good cause. Then, as soon as the janitors leave at ten o'clock, we're off and running! Man, I am so hyped! I haven't felt an adrenaline rush like this since we started pursuing the truth, and this is way healthier! I really wish you could be here to experience this with us. Stupid grounding...

Whoa. I just remembered that future generations of Wondercolts are gonna see this video! Everything we say will be immortalized on film! Mind. Blown. Talk about pressure! I gotta go prepare my speech!

To: Spoiled Rich
From: Diamond Tiara

Mother, I am not coming home tonight.

I don't care if you're upset. I'm doing something important with my classmates, and no punishment or consequence is gonna stop me. And I know what you're gonna say ⁠— "Causing trouble at school again? Absolutely not. This new behavior of yours is troubling. Clearly, those classmates of yours are problematic people, and you cannot associate yourself with them any longer. I don't want you becoming a disgrace to the Rich family name!" ⁠— but you know what? The CHS Wondercolts are a team I'm proud to be part of, and they're certainly no more problematic than me.

Father forced me to attend the get-together yesterday. Well, guess what? Everyone's together now, and we're ready to break some rules. Turns out I did gain some perspective — I never needed a second birthday party or a school-wide riot to feel good about myself. No, I just needed friends like the Wondercolts. They've made mistakes, but they're bouncing back stronger than ever. And even if it means breaking curfew... I'm ready to bounce with them.

See you tomorrow, Mother.

To: Lyra Heartstrings
From: Bon Bon

Hey, Lyra, I need your input on something. This video idea is great, but we're definitely missing someone. Photo Finish and the Snapshots can film, Octavia and DJ Pon-3 will provide a killer soundtrack, and everybody else'll perform the script. However, if we really want this done by tomorrow, we're gonna need an amazing editor... and I think Micro Chips is perfect for the job! He's a tech genius! And more importantly, he's a Wondercolt, just like the rest of us. He deserves to be a part of this project. The only problem is that he's grounded at home, and is thus unable to help... unless we break him out!

Look, I know it's a crazy suggestion, but... don't you think it's about time we embraced the craziness? I mean, everything's been kinda crazy this past week, and we've just chosen to stay away from it. Wouldn't it be nice to get our hands a little dirty for once? Plus, I've been dying to break out the grappling hook that I have for... no specific reason.

Come on, Lyra. We can do this. I believe in us! Besides, I've already called in an expert for some help...

To: Fluttershy
From: Pinkie Pie

Fluttershy, quick! Grab the inflatable boat and meet me out front! This is an EMERGENCY! There's no time to dilly-dally! Oh, and don't worry ⁠— I've already got the brownie batter, and Bon Bon was gracious enough to supply the grappling hook and balloons.

Come as fast as you possibly can! Operation: Breakout is a go!

13: Please Report to the Principal's Office (I)

To: Vice Principal Luna
From: Principal Celestia

Goodness, sister. The crazy train just got even crazier.

I shouldn't be surprised. After all, none of our students showed up for school yesterday. Obviously, something was wrong! Still, I had hoped this drama would subside, and that we would soon return to some form of normalcy. Unfortunately, that does not appear to be the case.

Last night, I got a call from the Canterlot Police Department. Apparently, our entire student body had broken into the school and were now in holding cells. Yeah. That was quite the pleasant surprise. After an hour of phone calls, emails, and texts, I finally managed to release everyone, but only on the condition that I use my authority as principal to dole out some sort of punishment. Yes. Another pleasant surprise.

Uggggghhhhhh. You know me, Luna. I hate punishing my pupils, but this time, it might be our only option. So, instead of having a regular school day (honestly, is that even possible at this point), I'm calling each student down to my office, one by one, to explain their side of the story. Hopefully, their personal accounts will help me piece together what really happened last night, and from there, we can figure out a fair punishment. Oh, and since you're sick at home today, I'm going to record each student's confession. That way, we can go over them together after school.

Alright, I need to go. Sandalwood just arrived, and I'm sure his confession will be quite... interesting.

Recording of SANDALWOOD

Last night was absolutely radical, dude! Oh, sorry, Principal Celestia. Didn't mean to call you "dude". It's a force of habit.

Anyways, last night was the best. I ate Chocolate Coated Caramel Crispy Cookies, hung out with my best friend in the entire world, and got to bask in the totally righteous energy of my peers! Sure, there were a couple of mishaps, but nothing spirit-breaking, y'know? Everything worked out in the end. Kind of. Not really. I had fun, at least.

Oh, you want specifics? Well, breaking into the school was really easy. As soon as the janitors left, Applejack busted through the doors with her super strength, and Trixie taught us how to block the motion detectors with nothing but a sheet of paper. Seriously, it was that simple. If you ask me, the school's security system needs a real upgrade. You know how many Equestrian magic threats we've had to face over the past few years? At least five! You think we would've learned by now...

Okay, just the facts from here on out, I promise. Once everyone was inside, Twilight briefed us on how the night was supposed to play out. I'll admit, I wasn't really paying attention to that part, but it sounded like she had everything under control. After that, we split into different groups and started filming.

And that's when MICRO CHIPS returned! Dude, you have no idea how much I missed him! Life just wasn't the same without his awkward, geeky presence. I had nobody to talk to, nobody to play hacky sack with, nobody to— Right. Back on topic. Um, the rest of my night was pretty devoted to him. We ate cookies together, filmed some scenes for the video, talked about the meaning of life... y'know, general guy stuff.

Everything that followed is a blur. I remember sitting in a circle with the rest of the Wonder-cult, hearing the fire alarm, and then getting put into handcuffs. That's about it. Micro Chips was definitely the highlight for me.

Overall, last night was a quality group hang... at least, until the police showed up. We didn't get to finish the video, but we really tried our best. And that has to count for something, right?

By the way, if you see Diamond Tiara, tell her that I still have her phone. Thanks!

Recording of TWILIGHT SPARKLE

Principal Celestia, thank you for taking the time to meet with the student body before deciding your punishment. I'm sure that once you hear our side of the story, you'll understand that we had the best of intentions, even if our actions were somewhat... ill-informed.

That being said, I would like to officially state that I was against the idea of trespassing on school grounds. Nobody listened to my opposition, of course, but I can assure you that I tried very hard to discourage the Wondercolts from their flawed course of action. Once we were already inside the school, however... I'll admit that I was complaisant.

As the project's assistant director, I was in charge of designing a comprehensive shooting schedule that allowed us to film the original script, record about a hundred student speeches, and do some reshoots, all before sunrise. A challenge, for sure, but nothing I couldn't handle. After about twenty minutes of isolation, concentration, and superb organization, I created what Sandalwood dubbed "the most beautiful tri-fold he'd ever seen". And I have to agree; it was certainly some of my best work. Color-coated, even!

With my amazingly crafted plan, I had assumed the night would be smooth sailing. Unfortunately, that wasn't the case. After being on track for twenty-three minutes, everything started to go awry. First, Flash Sentry went missing, which was especially bad because he had only filmed one of his three scheduled scenes! Then, Rarity locked herself in the costume closet, which meant another three scenes were suddenly on hold. And, for the cherry on top, it started raining, which meant that every scene on the field had to be moved somewhere else! It was a logistical NIGHTMARE!

Now, at this point, some might say that I started "Twilight-ing". However, I believe that my "freakout" was totally justified, especially given the circumstances. What? Of course, I know that my eye is twitching! What about it?! I'm fine! Trust me! I. AM. FINE!

Ahem. Sorry about that. Lost control of my emotions for a second. Anyways, I wasn't about to let a couple of mishaps ruin our night, so I sent out a search party to look for Flash, while Pinkie Pie worked on freeing Rarity. After two or three other quick fixes, it seemed like everything would be okay again... until Spoiled Rich arrived. Then, it was utter chaos.

Ughhhh! Last night was so FRUSTRATING! My schedule was so perfect, but we barely even got halfway through it! Our emergency team meeting took up sooooo much time, and then the fire alarm screwed everything up! It was supposed to be simple! It was supposed to be easy! And, instead, it was MADNESS! How come my plans never work?! They NEVER work! Am I not as organized as I should be?! Am I just not adaptable enough?! Gosh, I'm supposed to be GOOD at this! This is what I do! This is my role! Celestia, tell me, please! Am I good at this? AM I GOOD AT THIS?!

Hmm. You know what? I might need a minute to calm down. Um, good talk. I'll, uh, just send in the next person, if that's alright with you...

Recording of LYRA HEARTSTRINGS

Last night? Oh, I don't think I'll have very much to add. See, I was late because Bon Bon and I were helping Micro Chips sneak out of his hou— I mean, we were doing something else... that was... not that. Whew. Saved it.

Okay, fine! Micro Chips was grounded, and we really needed an editor for the video! And since there's parental controls on his laptop now, we needed to get him to the computers in the library! I promise, there was no breaking and entering. Everything was done from the outside! Pinkie Pie has this really neat trick with a brownie batter and an inflatable bo— Wait. Forget I said Pinkie Pie's name. She wasn't there. It was just me. And Bon Bon. And definitely not Fluttershy!

...Crud. Can I start over? Maybe you could delete this recording and— No? But the police never caught wind of how we broke out Micro Chips, so we were hoping that— Still no? Drat.

Oh well. Even though we got caught, it was definitely worth it. Sandalwood called us "heroes" for delivering Micro Chips, and that felt really, really good. I guess, if there's anything I've learned from this whole scandal, it's that you don't need to do big things — like exposing a certain someone's secret to the whole school — to be a "hero" and help out your friends. Sometimes, it's the smaller things — sharing your History notes, putting salami in someone's cart, reuniting best friends, dedicating a video to a deceased family member — that truly count and make all the difference. Regardless of whatever punishment comes our way, I'm glad I had this experience to teach me that.

Hey, are you sure I can't restart? Because I thought of a really good quote about friendship that I think would elevate my message to— No? Fine.

Recording of TRIXIE LULAMOON

Tell you what really happened? Absolutely NOT! The Great and Powerful Trixie refuses to expose her friends in such a manner! Her willpower is stronger than an ox, and her mind is locked up tighter than a safe! No secret shall ever come out of he— What's that? You'll contact my father if I don't comply? Never mind! The Honest and Informative Trixie shall tell all!

As a magician, I know all about the art of improvisation. See, when you're on stage, there's a lot that could go wrong. Audiences could boo. Rabbits could get stuck in their hats. People could actually get sawed in half. And when that happens, you can choose to either run away and never look back, or to simply seize the opportunity. As long as you play to your strengths and refuse to show weakness, you can always save the performance.

And that's exactly what I did. When I heard that Flash and Rarity had ruined Twilight's perfectly-crafted schedule, I knew that the Great and Powerful moi had to step in. See, the Rainbooms and Flash Drive were supposed to perform in the video, but with both bands missing important members, that was impossible. So, naturally, I volunteered to play in their place! That's right — one-hit wonder Trixie and the Illusions, back for one night only! It was going to be GREAT, POWERFUL, and MARVELOUS!

At least, if director Diamond Tiara had approved it. She was concerned about my song's lyrical content. While Better Than Ever and Cheer You On were songs about friendship and supporting one another, she called Tricks Up My Sleeve a "self-righteous slew of brags and unfounded cattiness". Can you believe that? The girl who incited a school-wide riot called me catty! Really, I felt like sawing her in half, but since I wanted the night to be drama-free for Rainbow Dash's sake, I just stepped away and moped in the girl's bathroom. Much better use of that negative energy.

Only, I lost track of time. Turns out, I was moping for an entire hour, and was about to miss my most important scene! I bolted out of the bathroom as fast as I could, but instead of finding the film crew, I found a bunch of police officers! Trixie was TERRIFIED! Without thinking, I screamed, threw ten smoke bombs, and ran the other way.

Unfortunately, I don't think the smoke detectors liked that. Normally, when I throw one smoke bomb, nothing happens. But since I had thrown ten at once, the fire alarm started blaring and the sprinklers turned on and everyone started screaming and— It was a mess. Believe me, Trixie was only trying to help! But instead of seizing the opportunity and improvising, she ran away and didn't look back.

Blegh. Now I'm getting all emotional! Darn it! Look, I know I'm not the only person who messed up the video project, but I still feel awful. This was supposed to help Rainbow Dash... to bring everyone together... to prove that we're still proud Wondercolts, but now... it's just another in a long string of failures. We wanted to fix everything, but maybe we can't. Maybe this is how our lives are gonna be from now on. We're just destined to screw up, over and over again...

Ugh. Now the waterworks are coming. The Raw and Emotional Trixie needs to excuse herself. Sorry.

Recording of ZEPHYR BREEZE

What?! Breaking into the school? Who could ever possibly do that?! Not I, that's for sure! And if you want an alibi, I've got one! Just gotta think of it...

14: Please Report to the Principal's Office (II)

To: Vice Principal Luna
From: Principal Celestia

Well, I just finished talking to the first wave of students, and it seems this situation might be more complicated than we thought. While the story of last night is slowly revealing itself, the emotional impact it had on our students is quite varied. Sandalwood cheerfully praised the experience, while Trixie ran out of my office in tears. And while Lyra confidently spoke about her growth, Twilight Sparkle doubted her own. And then there's Zephyr Breeze, who refuses to tell me anything!

Despite their differing experiences, there does seem to be a common through-line: good intentions with unfortunate results. Thus far, everyone has stated that the video project was supposed to unite the Wondercolts and prove that they still have the magic of friendship within them. So, even though they trespassed on school property and got in trouble with the police, I'm hesitant to punish them so harshly. What if I accidentally teach them that teamwork just leads to trouble? Trixie already believes the group is doomed to fail — what if I spread that mentality even further?

I'm so conflicted, sister. All they wanted to do was apologize and show me how much they've changed. And yet, they've only caused more chaos and given me even extra work to do. Can I trust them? Should I trust them? Are their good intentions enough to eclipse their actions? How do I finally put a end to this madness?

Please help.

Recording of RARITY

Last night, you say? Darling, that is but a distant memory. Feels like I've lived a whole life since then! Believe me, freeing yourself from the petty drama of the world is quite liberating. My only regret is that I didn't do it sooner!

What's that? You need actual information? Very well. Ever since Diamond Tiara's ghastly stunt, I'll admit I've been somewhat of a wreck. You see, Applejack wasn't too pleased with my participation in the school scandal, and unfortunately lashed out by sharing an abysmal photograph from my past. Naturally, I was taken aback by her perceived hostility, and the two of us began a nasty feud. Truly, those days were some of the most dreadful I've faced in years. Not speaking to my best friend was painful, but I needed her to apologize.

Apologies, I'm getting ahead of myself. The aforementioned photograph was of me in a mullet. Dreadful, I know! Even mentioning it sends shivers down my spine. It was seventh grade. We all made questionable choices back then. Anyways, I've always taken great pride in my appearance, so suddenly being mocked by my peers really shattered me. Look, I do know my strengths — I'm smart, I'm good with business, and I'm the most fashionable girl for miles — but overhearing their scornful confab made it feel like none of those qualities mattered. Suddenly, I was defined by my hair, of all things. Astonishing, right? Well, my insecurities began to manifest then, and I'm not exactly proud of what happened next.

When Sandalwood casually mentioned that this video would be watched by future generations of Wondercolts, I panicked. After all, if my looks were to be immortalized on film, they had to perfect, right? There was no way I was going to have another mullet mishap! So, once we got to the school, I began testing hundreds of different hairstyles — bangs, buns, curls, ponytails, knots, lobs, wigs — but no matter what I did, I always felt self-conscious. My hair had taken over my mind! And since going on camera looking less than tres belle wasn't an option, I locked myself in the closet until my appearance was flawless. Spoiler alert, it never was.

As you may have already surmised, this story does indeed have a happy ending. You see, while in tears, fearing that I'd nothing but the "mullet girl" for eternity, I heard a knock on the door. Pinkie Pie. I wasn't really in the mood for her high-octane shenanigans, so I simply brushed her off. That is, until she said:

"Rarity, they're not laughing at who you are. They're laughing at who you were. Wouldn't it feel good if you laughed with them?"

And that was it. I rushed out of the closet, dug through my locker, found the photograph, looked at the mullet, and then... I laughed. Well, according to Pinkie, it was a "snortle", but since that word is absolutely repulsive, we're just going to call it "laughing". And you know what? It was strangely cathartic! Laughing at my former self made me realize just how much I've grown over the past couple years. Since that picture, I've joined a band, gotten superpowers, started an internship at Carousel Boutique, defeated several threats from Equestria, designed costumes for Vignette Valencia— the list goes on! With how much I've accomplished, how could I ever possibly let a mere mullet define me? I am RARITY, for heavens sake! I needed to own my identity and film that video! ...which I never got to do because Sunset Shimmer called an emergency group huddle. Still, I was prepared to do it!

Oh, and Applejack? We made up later in the holding cell. Simply put, I apologized, she apologized, and voila! We were back on track. Just goes to show that, sometimes, our problems are only as large as we make them. Hm. Imagine if our student body had come to that realization last week. Perhaps we could've avoided this whole debacle. Oh well. Hindsight is 20/20, I suppose.

Goodness, I've gone way past my time slot, haven't I? Sincerest apologies. I tend to over-embellish, but that's only because I love a good story! Which reminds me, have you ever heard about the time Sweetie Belle got her head stuck in the fourth floor— Oh yes. Leaving now. Sorry!

Recording of ZEPHYR BREEZE #2

Ahhh. Brought me back for round two, I see. Totally understandable. The intoxicating effects of my prescience can be addicting. Please, don't be embarrassed. Happens to everyone.

...Oh my. I just said that to my principal, didn't I? I am so sorry. Let's just forget that ever happened, okay?

Look, you want information on last night? Fine. It was me who sent the anonymous tip to the police. Which I know sounds like a dick move, but I promise, there was a good reason for it! ...I just can't say what it is. Rainbows would kill me if anyone else found out, alright? Just know that we needed to stop production, and calling the police was the only way to make that happen. I can't spill anything else.

Hey, could you do me a favor and keep this conversation between the two of us? Really don't want word to get around that I was the one who ruined the video project. It was the right decision, but others might not see it that way. So... could this maybe be our little secret? Please?

Thanks, Principal Celestia. You're a real one.

15: Please Report to the Principal's Office (III)

Recording of FLASH SENTRY

Where I was last night? Where do I even begin?

I'm sure the other students have given you the whole "Wondercolts united" spiel, so I'll just cut to the chase. Earlier in the day, I had heard Diamond Tiara singing a heart-wrenching ballad, which caught me really off-guard. She's normally this confident and effortless queen, so I knew something was wrong. But instead of consoling her like a good friend, I just ended up watching her sorrow through the window like a creepy stalker.

Now, I know people usually ignore the spontaneous-musical-number-of-the-day, but I felt like such a jerk observing Diamond's pain and doing nothing to help. We were making a video about the magic of friendship, yet here I was, too scared to answer someone's cry for help. That's not being a good friend! If I was going to be immortalized as an example of what it means to be a Wondercolt, I had to start acting like one.

So, I ditched the video and went to Sugarcube Corner.

Wait, that sounds bad. I wasn't abandoning my peers, I promise! The opposite, actually! Twilight planned for us to pull an all-nighter filming the video, but her schedule barely included any breaks or time to rest. So, I thought I'd do my fellow Wondercolts a favor and bring them all coffee! It'd boost their spirits, give them energy, and prove that I'm not just a horrible, jerky window stalker! It was only supposed to take twenty minutes, tops — order the coffee ahead of time, pick it up from the shop, and be back at school in a flash. Oh, jeez, that pun was terrible. Did we seriously record that? Yikes.

Anyway, you know what they say about the best laid plans. Halfway back from the shop, this pair of dapper-looking salesmen — I think their names were Flib and Flab? — cornered me in an alley. At first, I thought I was gonna die. Instead, I had to listen to a twenty-minute musical presentation about a vacuum cleaner. Side note: did you know that a fraction of the dust we vacuum is comprised of our own skin?! Freaky.

Back to the point, sorry. By the time Flib and Flab finally left me alone, I was super late to my next scene, so I tried running back to school — only now, my hands were filled with dozens of coffees and a vacuum cleaner. (Yes, I bought one. Their pitch was very convincing.) I was carrying too much, which meant I couldn't really see below me, and well... one crack in the sidewalk later, I was back at Sugarcube Corner purchasing even more coffees. When I finally made it back to the school, everybody else was being rounded up by the police, so I just ditched the coffee and fell in line.

It was a rough night, to say the least, and I don't feel any better about ignoring Diamond Tiara's song. In fact, I feel even worse now, since I abandoned my friends and totally ruined Twilight's schedule. Maybe I'm not fit to be Wondercolt like everybody else. They've got the magic of friendship, while I've got nothing more than the magic of failure.

By the way, did the police mention anything about a vacuum cleaner when they called you? It was confiscated last night and well— No? Darn. Alright. I'm sure we'll reunite someday.

Recording of DIAMOND TIARA

Principal Celestia, I need you to expel me. What? No, I'm being serious! Please, just listen to me!

Last night, while we were in jail, I overheard Applejack say "one bad apple spoils the bunch". And when I thought about it, I realized: everything bad that's happened over the last week can be traced back to one person — me! Twilight's schedule imploding? That's because I blackmailed Applejack into giving me mullet picture and Flash Sentry heard my song. The fire alarm interrupting the emergency meeting? That's because I criticized Trixie's song and separated her from the group. Nobody wanting to talk to each other? That's because I started a school-wide riot! Not to mention, I had the idea to make the video and break into the school! I'm pretty sure I even sent the very first text about Rainbow Dash!

So, you see? This is why I need to be expelled! I am a bad influence on Canterlot High. I promise, my expulsion won't affect my parents' donations, and they won't sue you. Just punish me, please!

Am I okay? What do you mean? Um... Yes, my mother did come to school last night while we were filming the video. What did she say? Nothing I hadn't heard before. "You're an ungrateful daughter." "Actions like these are unforgivable." "How dare you soil the Rich Family name?" "Canterlot High should be ashamed to have you." "You're a toxic influence on this school." "This is why you have no friends." "It's no wonder nobody wanted to stay at your birthday party." Stuff like that. No, I didn't respond. She left before I could. Uh, no, she didn't pick me up from precinct. I walked home in the rain. No, I didn't speak to her this morning.

Wait... the Teen Center? Is that the room with the therapy dogs? I've never been there before. You said there's somebody there who'd like to talk to me? Oh, okay.

Um, thank you for your time, Principal Celestia.

Recording of SUNSET SHIMMER

This has been a weird week. Remember when all we had to worry about were raging she-demons and sirens from another world? Simpler times.

All jokes aside, this week has been a transformative experience. In some ways, it felt familiar — us Wondercolts have argued before. Only this time, the Dazzlings didn't hypnotize us. We did this to each other. To ourselves. We're capable of causing this much chaos and disharmony, even over text. That's kind of a sobering notion, honestly.

However, last night taught me that we're equally capable of putting good out into the world. The exact same energy that drove the Wondercolts to invade Rainbow's privacy was used to plan an epic apology video which would've showcased the magic of friendship for generations of Wondercolts to come. When everyone wanted to know "the truth" — chaos. When everyone wanted to apologize — harmony. It's amazing how much can change with a simple shift in perspective.

Yes, everything went awry last night. But our unity never waivered. Right until we were in handcuffs, us Wondercolts were prepared to do whatever it took to make a glorious video. Not one person wanted to give up.

Minutes before the fire alarms went off, I called for an emergency meeting in the cafeteria. Twilight was Twilight-ing and Spoiled Rich was being toxic, so I wanted us to regroup and figure out our next steps together. And immediately, everyone began supplying genuine, meaningful suggestions to steer the plan back on track. Flash Drive suggested a collab with the Rainbooms so we only needed to record one song when Flash returned. Photo Finish and her crew gave their expensive supplies to complete novices so that more scenes could be filmed at once. Sandalwood, Zephyr Breeze, Wallflower Blush, and dozens of other students were willing to cut their testimonials to ensure we could finish the video on time. That's right — the exact same people who selfishly revealed their peers' secrets earlier were now selflessly giving up their own solo moments to shine. Pretty touching, if you ask me.

I know some people are upset about last night's outcome. Honestly, though, I think it proved that we've still got the magic of friendship inside of us. It wasn't perfect, but we did learn from our mistakes and tried to be better to one another. As a school, we need to make amends, and last night was a step in the right direction. A step that should be celebrated.

Wow. If going to jail was a step in the right direction, we really went off the deep end, huh?

To: Vice Principal Luna
From: Principal Celestia

Sister, I'm at a total loss. I've pieced together everything (except why Zephyr Breeze called the police), and yet I still have no idea how to proceed.

Can I be candid with you for a moment? I almost cried when I first heard that the students were producing the video on their own. Happy tears, of course. After all the fighting and the deception, they were finally coming together to create something for the next generation of Wondercolts! How could I not be touched? If they had only waited and not trespassed on school property, I would have gladly accepted the video as their apology. But alas.

However, I am inclined to agree with Sunset Shimmer — last night was a step in the right direction for the school as a whole. There were no riots or serious fights, and everyone remained united the whole time. In fact, I believe their only actual crime was breaking into the school. Certain students — like Flash, Twilight, and Trixie — are beating themselves up over individual blunders, but in all honesty, their mistakes were largely inconsequential. The video was always going to be shut down by the police, regardless of scheduling conundrums or smoke bombs. Remind me to have one-on-one sessions with them later to assure them that their well-intentioned contributions had nothing to do with the ultimate failure of the video.

With that in mind, all signs point to a school-wide punishment. Everyone trespassed, so everyone needs to face the consequences. But how am I supposed to punish such a well-meaning student body? They were simply thinking with their hearts instead of their heads — that doesn't warrant detention, suspension, or expulsion. They did do the right thing, just in the wrong way. How can I express that to them without causing any serious damage? (Side note: Thank you for convincing me to install the Teen Center and hire school counselors. They certainly came in handy today.)

I have one last interview to conduct, and it's with Rainbow Dash. She's been hurt by her peers numerous times, but she's also watched them grow and make amends. If there's any one student who could help with my decision, it's her.

Time for some déjà vu.

Recording of PRINCIPAL CELESTIA

Rainbow Dash, please report to the principal's office.

16: Conclusion

To: Applejack
From: Rarity

Darling, is it possible to be overdressed for a funeral? I know Dashie's message said nothing about a dress code, but I want to ensure that my ensemble remains respectful and appropriate. Obviously, sequins are out, but could I possibly get away with a pearl necklace? Ebony, of course. Although, that might stand out too much. Perhaps one in midnight or ink would work better?

Ugh. I'm definitely overthinking this. Unless somebody shows up in an inflatable dinosaur costume, I doubt Rainbow Dash will care about our appearances.

No, the important part is being there to support her, and I'm more than ready for that. She wants ice cream? I've got a coupon. She needs a tissue? I made personalized handkerchiefs. She wants my fainting couch? Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom, and Big McIntosh are on standby to move it. Today, I vow to help her however I can.

I was positively horrid last week. Never again.

To: Sandalwood, Lyra Heartstrings, Bon Bon, Trixie Lulamoon, Flash Sentry, Zephyr Breeze, +98 others
From: Diamond Tiara

Attention Wondercolts!

After being rained out yesterday, Day 3 of filming for the "Welcome to Canterlot High" video is officially a go! Unfortunately, Twilight Sparkle won't be joining us today, but she's entrusted me with her airtight schedule, so I know we can pull this off without her!

Everyone, please meet in the Canterlot High gymnasium at noon. Vice Principal Luna will be there to let you in. Thanks!

To: Micro Chips
From: Sandalwood

Yo, dude, I am so proud of you. Talking to Bow Hothorse yesterday must've been tough, but you followed through and delivered a totally epic, genuine, and meaningful apology. Both your auras massively changed for the better. In fact, everyone's have! The spiritual and emotional healing this week has been totally rad!!!

Speaking of rad, the new video's coming along nicely. I have three scenes to film today, plus I agreed to help Pinkie bake some Chocolate Coated Caramel Crispy Cookies for the watch party next week. Lemme tell you, getting involved feels waaaaaay better than searching for "the truth". And it's much more fun! A couple of us were worried that Celestia and Luna's supervision might affect the project's authenticity, but they've been real champions of our vision. It's good vibes 24/7! No grudges, no arguments, and especially no eleventh hour chaos destroying our hopes and dreams. Who could ask for more?

It's a real bummer that you're grounded and can't join us. At least you're still the editor!

Oh! Before I forget, make sure to send some cash Diamond Tiara's way. Everyone's pitching in to buy flowers for the... what do we call them? The Dashes? The Whistleses? The Hothoofs? Whatever. We're buying flowers for the family. Funerals are rough, and we want Rainbow Dash to know that we're here for her.

I just hope this project can honor Grandma Hothoof's memory!

To: Bon Bon
From: Lyra Heartstrings

Hold onto your hat! I've got news that will totally and completely rock your world! Can I get a drumroll, please? 🥁🥁🥁🥁🥁

...Zephyr Breeze failed his History test!

Obviously, I'm being sarcastic. Nobody's shocked that he only scored twenty-six points. Apparently, his grade's gotten so low that he needs a ninety-five or above on the next three assignments to even pass the class. It's very dire. The dude needs a tutor.

...Or a pair of romantically involved tutors.

This gig was made for us, Sweetie! I know our last study session with him was an absolute train wreck, but times have changed! Zephyr deserves a second chance. Plus, ever since we reunited Sandalwood and Micro Chips the other night, I've been itching to help more people around the school. Becoming "LyraBon: Canterlot High's #1 Tutoring Service" (we'll workshop the name) sounds like the perfect way to keep the kindness train a-chugging!

You're my favorite person, Bon Bon, and I'm glad we stuck together through all the nonsense. Can't wait for our next adventure to begin. <3 <3 <3

To: Rainbow Dash
From: Trixie Lulamoon

The Somber and Respectful Trixie offers her sincere condolences.

When my grandpa died, I couldn't muster up the strength to attend his funeral. Instead, I stayed in bed and taught myself the Four Burglars card trick. Great distraction at the time, but when I tried performing the trick onstage a couple weeks later, I ended up bawling in front of my three-person audience. Totally humiliating, but also, weirdly cathartic? Definitely the most magical part of that magic show.

You're not alone, Rainbow Dash. Whatever you need, I'm here. Your parents are here. Your friends are here. Canterlot High is here. Remember, the Wondercolts would happily break into a school for you. Your support system is both great and powerful. Don't forget that.

Anyway, I'm off to pester Diamond Tiara about including "Tricks Up My Sleeve" in the video. Wish me luck! Talk to you soon.

To: Silver Spoon
From: Diamond Tiara

Can you at least tell me why you're ghosting me? We're about fifty messages deep into your apathy, and there's been zero explanation. No replies, no reactions, not even an emoji! You're my best friend, Silver Spoon! I know I can be an absolute b-word sometimes, but I deserve to know the truth. Why are you ignoring me?!?!

To: Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo
From: Diamond Tiara

Good afternoon, Canterlot Movie Club. Due to recent events, I have decided that you shall be my new Silver Spoon. This comes with certain expectations and responsibilities, of course, but I won't bore you with the details. For now, let's gossip!!!

First, can we talk about Flash Sentry? Total weirdo! He named his vacuum "Earl", and he's been acting like it's his son. Could somebody please get that boy a hobby? Clearly, guitar ain't cutting it! Also, he was spying on my private musical number the other day. Should I unleash my lawyers on him? Yes or no?

Second, what's the dress code for Pipsqueak's birthday party? I have this stunning white dress that I planned to wear for the Spring Fling, but since that's been cancelled, it needs its time in the spotlight elsewhere. And how do we feel about rhinestones? Yes or no?

Third — and keep this on the down-low — I started therapy recently. Yup. Diamond Tiara, the girl who started a school riot, in therapy. Big shock. To be honest, though, it's kinda cool having someone to talk to (someone who actually responds, unlike some people). And who knows, maybe this could lead to a better life: one where I'm happier and feel like I deserve my Wondercolts jersey. Maybe!

Fourth, have you seen Zephyr Breeze anywhere? His annoying face was supposed to be on camera six minutes ago! If you find him, tell him to come to the gym immediately. Thanks.

CMCs, this feels like the start of a wonderful friendship!

To: Zephyr Breeze
From: Rainbow Dash

Hey, dude. I know you're busy with the video, and I'm busy with the funeral, but... I never thanked you for what happened.

You were right. I was avoiding my parents. Sixty-three ignored texts and thirty-nine missed calls (I counted). The get-together was the perfect excuse to hide from them, and then busting into the school was intoxicating, y'know? The ultimate distraction!

Except I didn't need a distraction, I needed to face reality. Calling the cops was maybe excessive, but I do appreciate the gesture. When we got home, my parents and I spent the night talking, crying, and reminiscing... which we needed. Felt pretty darn good, and it never would've happened without your intervention. So... thanks.

You're a cool dude, Zephyr. Sometimes infuriating, but cool. Maybe we could hang out sometime —platonically, of course. We'll talk when I'm back in school.

To: Vice Principal Luna
From: Principal Celestia

Sister, I can't believe I'm saying this, but... all's well that ends well?

This whole debacle has been stressful from day one, and it finally seems to be over! The Wondercolts are friends again, none of them are in serious legal trouble, and the video project is nearly complete! What a miraculous conclusion.

Canterlot High may not be perfect, but it's one of the good ones. I'm very proud to be its principal.

Wait. What was that?

To: Sandalwood
From: Flash Sentry

NOOOOOO EARL!!!!!!!!!!!!

To: Lyra Heartstrings
From: Bon Bon

Did you see that?! Someone just threw Flash Sentry's vacuum off the roof!

To: Diamond Tiara, Lyra Heartstrings, Bon Bon, Trixie Lulamoon, Flash Sentry, Zephyr Breeze, +98 others
From: Sandalwood

Does anyone have the video?! I can't believe I missed it!!!

To: Sandalwood, Lyra Heartstrings, Bon Bon, Diamond Tiara, Flash Sentry, Zephyr Breeze, +98 others
From: Trixie Lulamoon

Not pointing any fingers, but Zephyr Breeze has been gone for a while...

To: Sandalwood, Lyra Heartstrings, Bon Bon, Diamond Tiara, Trixie Lulamoon, Zephyr Breeze, +98 others
From: Flash Sentry

WHOEVER DID THIS TO EARL IS GONNA PAY

To: Sandalwood, Lyra Heartstrings, Bon Bon, Diamond Tiara, Trixie Lulamoon, Zephyr Breeze, +98 others
From: Flash Sentry

SERIOUSLY HE WAS EXPENSIVE

To: Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo
From: Diamond Tiara

Ugh! Can't we go one week without some inane drama?!

To: Lyra Heartstrings
From: Zephyr Breeze

Why is everyone messaging me?! And who the heck is Earl?!

To: Vice Principal Luna
From: Principal Celestia

Shoot.

To: Diamond Tiara
From: Silver Spoon

Hey bestie! Totally forgot to mention: I got a new number! Sorry! When you stopped texting, I thought you were going through another one of your "cold and distant" phases, which usually pass after some "alone time"... My bad!!! Hope you didn't send anything important!

BTW, you need to catch me up on everything that happened while I was sick! Featherweight called earlier and mentioned a "get-together" and "jail"(???), but the connection was horrible. Doesn't sound like too much happened in my absence, though!

Anyways, see you soon! XOXO

11: Adaptation

To: Cranky Doodle
From: Cheerilee

Hey, quick question. Was there a field trip today or something else I forgot about? Because there are zero students in my class right now, and I'm really confused. And concerned. I mean, even Twilight Sparkle isn't here, and she hasn't missed a day of school in years! Seriously, she once came to class with a fever and still got a 105 on a quiz! If she's not around, something must be wrong.

I'm worried, Cranky. First the school-wide riot, and now this? Since when are our students so troublesome? Is there some new drug on the market that we don't know about? Because I honestly haven't sensed this much disharmony since Celestia took red velvet cookies off the lunch menu. And those days were dark.

This could be a symptom of some larger, underlying issue. Or maybe it's an act of rebellion. Perhaps a protest against Celestia? Against Rainbow Dash? But why? What statement are they trying to make here? What's going on in their heads? Why are they skipping class on a Wednesday? What is happening?!

To: Micro Chips
From: Sandalwood

DUDE, WE FORGOT ABOUT SCHOOL!

Everyone was so into the sleepover yesterday, it totally slipped our minds! We stayed up until, like, four in the morning! There was no way we were getting up on time! And since both of Fluttershy's parents are away on a business trip, nobody was around to remind us!

We were shocked awake at noon by a chorus of ringtones. Apparently, Principal Celestia told our parents that everyone was missing, and they promptly called us all in a panic. At once. Normally, I love exploring the various sounds this world has to offer, but believe me... waking up to a hundred screeching phones was torture. Flash keeps saying he lost his hearing because of it, and I can't tell if he's exaggerating! It was that bad!

Anyway, we're definitely in trouble with our parents for essentially skipping school. But, at this point, nobody really cares. Being in trouble is our new status quo. Besides, last night was exhausting, both physically and emotionally. The Wonder-cult needs a day off! (Oh, I forgot to mention — I coined the term "Wonder-cult" last night. Get it? It's like "Wondercolt", but a cult.)

So, instead of going to school late or going home to angry parents, we're just gonna chillax here at the Shy house for a while. Everyone pitched in three dollars for food, so Zephyr, Lyra, and couple others headed to the supermarket to buy stuff. Once they come back, our resident chefs will cook up a meal, and we'll have brunch as a group! Kind of like a party after-party. Could be fun, right?

And, hey — since everyone's finally talking to each other again, maybe we can use this time to sift through yesterday's craziness. After all, we still need to apologize to Celestia for this mess. Although, thinking about it now, collectively skipping school probably isn't helping us in that department...

Eh, whatever. I've got a good feeling about today. The Wonder-cult is going to make some progress!

To: Sunset Shimmer
From: Twilight Sparkle

NOOOOOO!!!

How did this happen?! I've never slept through my alarm before! NEVER! In fact, I haven't even been late to school since fourth grade! And that time was only by six seconds! THIS IS OVER FOUR HOURS, SUNSET! FOUR HOURS! Maybe if we run, we can still make it in time for the Chemistry quiz!

Wait... did I hear Sandalwood correctly? We're not going to school? We're preparing a brunch instead? NOOOO!!! I could handle being late, but skipping school entirely?! That's too rebellious! I'm gonna fail the quiz! I'm never going to get into college! My perfect attendance record's gonna be ruined!!!

WHAT HAS THIS SCANDAL DONE TO ME?!?!

To: Pinkie Pie
From: Applejack

Oh, brother. Looks like she's "Twilight-ing" again. Better get my lasso ready. Wouldn't want a repeat of last time...

To: Bon Bon
From: Lyra Heartstrings

Really wish you were here, Bon Bon. This supermarket run has been wild. First, Snips got stuck in a shopping cart. Then, Roseluck and Photo Finish started arguing about whether pancakes or waffles are better (pancakes, duh). And then, we lost Wallflower Blush in the produce aisle and spent ten minutes looking for her... only to realize she was behind us the entire time. Yeah, not our finest moment.

The weirdest part of this trip, though, has been Zephyr Breeze. You're never going to believe this, but he tried holding the door for me earlier. Isn't that insane?! He never does that for anyone! Sure, it was an automatic door that would've opened without him, but still. And that was just the beginning! He's since asked for my favorite cookie, ice cream, frozen pizza, and deli meat, all of which have "mysteriously" appeared in our cart!

I'm worried. Either Zephyr's barking up the wrong tree, or he's suddenly turned nice. Between hosting the sleepover, ordering everyone pizza, and now being a considerate shopper, he's become an entirely different person! It's hard to believe this is the same guy who tricked us last week! Why the sudden change of heart? Does he feel guilty for using Rainbow Dash's tragedy to be a leech? Or is he just afraid of Bulk Biceps punching him again?

Either way, I think putting salami in the cart might be his attempt at an apology. If that's the case, I accept. He may have used us, but it's not like we had the best of intentions in the first place. Besides, we're not going to get anything done if we hold petty grudges. We have to move on. That's the only way we can fix a mess like this.

Okay, wait. He just put a case of "kombucha" in the cart, even though we know he stole your tea bags to make some himself. Some things never change, I guess.

To: Rainbow Dash
From: Trixie Lulamoon

Rainbow Dash, read this very carefully. The following message contains a sentiment I seldom express and rarely actually mean. I want to assure you, though, that everything I am about to say is the truth. The Candid and Emotional Trixie owes you an apology.

Truly, I am sorry for everything that's happened this past week. I invaded your privacy, perpetuated several rumors, and called for a school-wide revolution, all of which was grossly uncalled for. Nobody at this school ever takes me seriously, and I thought helping uncover the truth might finally earn me some respect. Obviously, that doesn't excuse my actions, but I thought you should know the truth. I feel absolutely awful for exploiting your tragedy, and I hope you can forgive me someday.

That being said, The Wise and Thoughtful Trixie would like to offer you some advice. Very few people know this, but my grandfather passed away last semester. It was my first experience with loss, and I shut down. Couldn't focus in class. Couldn't do my homework. Couldn't even perfect my magic tricks. The agony took over my life, to the point where it felt like there was nothing else...

Until I spoke to Sunset Shimmer.

Rainbow, grief is like a roller coaster. There's twists, turns, and many times when you'll want to scream. And just when you think the ride's over, it starts up again. And you can't get off. At first, it's scary and lonely. But then you realize that roller coasters have multiple seats. And when I let Sunset ride with me, those twists and turns stopped being so jarring. Even though she'd never experienced anything similar, having someone to talk to made the darkest days feel that much brighter. So, while I'm still riding the roller coaster to this day, I've adapted to it. There's still some sadness within me, but it no longer controls my life. The Great and Powerful Trixie made her triumphant return, which wouldn't have been possible without accepting help from a friend.

Listen, I know that the grieving process is different for everyone. However, I also know that your friends really care about you. Like, freakishly so. There's no shame in talking in them, Dash. They want to help you. And, hey, if you ever want to talk to somebody who went through something similar, I'm sure I could make time in my schedule.

Okay, that's enough of the Knowledgeable and Empathetic Trixie for one day. See you at brunch. 💨

(That emoji was supposed to be a smoke bomb, if you couldn't tell.)

To: Captain Planet
From: Flash Sentry

Hey, you know how our classmates sometimes spontaneously break out into songs expressing their innermost thoughts and desires? Well, I just witnessed one through the window. Diamond Tiara was sitting alone in the backyard, scrolling through her phone, then BAM! Just like that, she started singing! It was a pretty heartbreaking number, too. Something about wishing she could be somebody else, and not knowing how to become the person she wants to be... Sounded like a real downer.

I know we typically ignore these spur-of-the-moment musical numbers, but Diamond Tiara seems pretty upset. Should I go over and talk to her? Would that be awkward? I hope she's okay...

To: Silver Spoon
From: Diamond Tiara

Ugh. I just watched Rainbow Dash go into the bathroom with all her friends. They're probably going to have a heart-to-heart about the importance of communication and friendship. Maybe even share a group hug or song. Meanwhile, I'm all alone in the backyard! Nobody wants to talk to me. Nobody even wants to be near me! (Although, Flash Sentry is apparently stalking me through a window, so that's... fun.)

Mother always told me not to associate myself with problematic people, but now I've become the problematic person! Like, I literally started a school-wide riot to tear everyone apart. That's not the Wondercolt way! CHS is all about the magic of friendship, while I exemplify the magic of manipulation. Do I even belong here?

I wish that Memory Stone hadn't been destroyed. I could've made everyone forget this whole scandal ever happened! Or, at the very least, I could've gotten Principal Celestia to un-cancel Rainbow Dash's video...

Oh my goodness. Silver Spoon, that's it! That's the key to our problems! This is gonna sound crazy, but I have an idea that might just fix everything!

Buckle up, Wondercolts. This brunch is about to get interesting!