Chapters Eqestria girls (genderbent)
Claire's pov
Today is my first day in Canterlot high and this is my first time outdoors in a new area without my parents in like a week or so and I am terrified. What if they don't like me or worse I embarrass myself in front of everyone and end up with some weird nickname.
In the distance, I could see a horse it was quite majestic but what has the horse got to do with the school, probably there's a meaning behind it but oh well.
Canterlot high was right in front of me, it was kind of intimidating,
'look its the new girl'
'OMG her hair is amazing, I wanna touch it looks so fluffy'
'Woah she's cute and her body wow'
'She's fat'
'Look at her thighs'
'and her skin is so dark, that girl needs lightning cream'
I glared at the group that called me fat. I AM NOT FAT IM JUST CURVY.
I walked in school like it is my personal runway cause I am the main character and a queen.
Walking through the doors people were staring and whispered maybe I shouldn't have worn a shirt abd crop top today, a lot of people were pointing but I help my head up high. Out of nowhere a guy with pink bouncy hair, pointed at me while gasping and ran away.
That was weird and rude. Do I look okay, I should have looked in the mirror before I left.
I continued walking down the hallway and surprisingly I didn't bump into anyone.
'Finally found it the principal office'
3rd pov
~ In the principal's office~
Claire knocked on the door and she heard a deep but soft voice say come in. Walking in she saw two men.
One had a mix of very dark orange and light orange and the other dark blue and light blue. They looked to be in their 20s
"They're so handsome and cute aren't I a lucky student."
Claire didn't realize it but she was checking out her now new principals.
A few seconds pass and claire was interrupted by a cough, it took a few seconds for her to realise, she was checking her now new principals and now at this very moment, all she wanted was a giant hole to appear and to suck her in.
"Hi, welcome to canterlot high, I'm the principal Solaris and this is my younger brother and my vice principal midnight, we welcome you to canterlot high," he pulls his hand out for a handshake and she shook it.
"It's nice to meet you both and I'm glad to be here," claire said still flustered about what happened just happen a minute ago and the fact they caught her staring made it worse. She couldn't look them in the eyes. Good thing she was dark-skinned or else she'd be as red as a baboons butt.
Vice-principal midnight looked at her and gave her a sheet "This is your schedule and the number to your locker, someone in the welcome committee will show you around when you reach there."
"We hope you enjoy your time in canterlot high," both principals said in sync.
"I will and thank you, " claire walked out and walked down the hallway. She wished that they'd forget about her and the fact she was checking them out.
That's what she wished, but what she didn't know is that she said she complimented them out loud when she left both men were amused by the girl and found it cute, the fact she didn't notice what she said.
"Hey mid this year is going to interesting isn't it"
"Sure is brother, it sure is"
They both chuckled at the thought of Claire.
♔♔♔♔♔
~Back with claire~
3rd pov
'104..104..104 oh found it' Claire looked around to see if she could notice the welcome committee but didn't. She turned around and saw the same pink-haired guy that rudely ran away but this time he was a few inches away from her face.
"OMG your the new girl! My name is Bubble Berry it's nice to meet you, sorry for running off like that, I was soooo excited and I had to prepare since I am the welcome committee and I'm here to welcome you!!" He took a huge gasp since he said that in one breath.
Claire didn't know what to feel, she loved bubble's enthusiasm and his energy, he's the kind of person she'd hang out with when she needs to have fun.
Then he started signing
[Bubble Berry]
Welcome welcome welcome
A fine welcome to you
Welcome welcome welcome
I say how do you do?
Welcome welcome welcome
I say hip hip hurray
Welcome welcome welcome
To Canterlot High today
Out of nowhere he pulled out a party cannon and shot it, she actually enjoyed it but where the heck did he get the cannon.
'I wish I had that power imagine the things I could pull out' she thought but regardless she applauded him and giggle.
Claire didn't notice but Bubble berry stops and stared in awe for a minute hearing her giggle.
'It was cute, she was cute' he thought, there was a hint of blush on his cheeks.
"Let's get on with the tour," Bubble exclaimed pulling claire along. Well dragging
♔♔♔♔♔
Claire's pov
After the tour, we stopped at the canteen, since it was almost lunch. I didn't feel like eating at the moment so Bubble berry went along and I went to the animal area since for some reason we missed it.
I walked in and there was a guy with light pink hair not like Bubble's and he was cute.
"Ummm... Hi," I said quietly. The boy turned around startled and flustered, he looked like the kind shy type.
"S-s-sorry I didn't notice you come in," he said, oh wow he really was the shy type. He was really quiet but I have good hearing since you know I'm an elf.
"It's okay, I'm new. My name is Claire and yours is?"
"You heard me"
"Yeah I have a great hearing"
"Oh well my name is butterscotch, umm are you here to volunteer to help?"
He seemed hesitant to ask since he was completely avoiding eye contact. "Yeah, I'll volunteer although I came here since Bubble berry avoid this place."
What I said must have caught his attention because he was now looking me in the eye as if I said something I shouldn't have.
"Bubble Berry, I think you should avoid him, he's rude and loud but you can start coming in here after on Fridays to help clean," he said but I needed to know why he wanted me to avoid Bubble berry. Before I could ask the bell ran and I had to be somewhere.
"Sorry I have to go and I'll see you tomorrow, bye," I said walking out heading to the principal's office. I didn't need to knock since the door was open and there were my mom and principal Solaris.
"Hi Rosey we're going home now," my mom said, she turned to principal Solaris "thank you for the chat goodbye," she shook his hand and off we went.
When she left Butterscotch thought that Claire was pretty and was nice, the fact that she wanted to help was great. He thought that she would make a great friend, unlike Bubble berry.
Eqestria girls (genderbent)
3rd pov
~on her way out in school~
Claire was at school early today because well she was new and Bubble berry showed her around a bit too quickly so she went back to exploring and pick up where she left off the other day.
She decided to go outdoors and there was a guy with striking rainbow hair, and it looked like he was practising football, to be honest, he was pretty good at it. Claire really wasn't the sporty type nevertheless she enjoyed volleyball.
She walked to the benches and sat there, hoping that he'll eventually see her which didn't take long due to the ball flying towards her.
Side note she had horrible reflexes and needs a minute to process things.
It hit her right in the middle of the face causing her to fall back. She shut her eyes waited for an impact on the bench behind her but felt arms around her back.
"Hey are you okay?" she opened her eyes slowly to see the guy with the unique hair colour. He looked worried and regretful.
"Yes, I'm fine, I'll probably just have a small bump on my head no need to worry," she said assuring the boy.
Still in his arms "are you sure, do you need me to take you to the nurse's office, I can carry you," Claire stood up quickly, "I really fine," she convinced him. He nodded
"My name is claire Rosalind and you are,'' she asked.
"Oh I'm Rainbow blitz, new aren't you?"
Claire chuckled "what gave me away"
He looked at her with a playful expression "never seen someone as cute as you and your hair is beautiful," he replied winking at me. Rainbow blitz expected her to fluster but that didn't happen.
"Well I think your cute and your hair is unique," she giggled.
He was taken aback, no one has replied to his flirting, they either just too flustered to reply or ignored him. He liked this, he found her interesting but still he wasn't going to give in.
"I'm-i'm not cute, guys can't be cute," he exclaimed stuttering, clearly embarrassed a cute girl called him cute.
Claire just chuckled, watching him all flustered made her want to tease him more.
"Okay, okay your not cute," she started walking away. She stopped halfway on the court and turned around to see him looking at her.
"YOU'RE ABSALOUTLY ADORABLE, BYE," she shouted and ran off giggling before she could get a response.
Rainbow blitz was too embarrassed to chase after her, she called him cute that was fine but now adorable that's too much. His cheeks were pink, shaking his head he went back to practising with the cute girl on his mind.
'She felt nice in my arms'
♔♔♔♔♔♔♔♔♔♔
Claire's pov
~in the hall way~
I couldn't help but smile after meeting Rainbow blitz, he was interesting and when he's embarrassed it was just cute. It took a lot of effort to not jump on him and hug him.
Due to the fact I wasn't paying attention, I bumped into someone.
"I'm so sorry I wasn't looking at where I was going," I apologized. I heard a chuckled and then "so you the new girl, your way more beautiful than how people have described you."
I looked up and saw a guy with red and orange hair, he was handsome but had an evil look in his eyes. He looked at me as if I was his prey.
I was trapped between him and the lockers. People were looking but no one help they looked worried.
"Date me"
My eyes widened and I look straight at him.
"what! Why! I just met you?" I asked.
"Well, I'm the king of the school and not only that I'm pretty good looking. We could rule all these low lives together, so what do you say," He started smirking. He obviously expected her to say yes 'Why would she say no, girls would love to be by my side whether in school or bed'
I grabbed his shirt and looked him straight in the eye. "listen here you narcissist, I'll never date you even if you were the last boy on earth and no one here is a low life. Now get out of my face before I scratch it to the point even plastic surgery can't fix you," I snapped.
He pushed me away "tch, you'll regret that watch your back, I'll make your life a living hell," he growled and left. Being mad was an understatement, he was furious no one talks to him like that. Not only that she had the audacity to embarrass him in front of the whole school. 'I'll get my revenge one way or another
It took me a minute to compose my self. When I looked up people were staring like they saw a ghost. Some had a look of admiration? I guess.
I really wasn't a fan of stares so I scurried out of there and walked in the first door I saw.
I turned around and observed the room, there were lots of clothes and they were magnificent. They looked like they belonged on the runway. I finally noticed I wasn't alone, the guy turned around and looked surprised.
"Oh, darling you must be the new girl that stood up to Sunburst, that quite daring of you. My name is Elusive by the way," He beamed. The guy was gorgeous, and his voice sounds so elegant.
"Oh that's the jerks name but how did you know, it just happened a few minutes ago," I wondered.
"News travels fast around here plus it's all over the canterlot internet. It felt good someone finally stood up to that bully but watch your back from now on, who knows what he'll do to you," he explained.
I didn't want this much attention in school, I already get enough because of my hair but now. Although standing up to that jerk felt great.
"That's was pretty quick and my name is Claire Rosalind. Did you make these clothes?" I asked.
He nodded.
3rd pov
Claire took his hands in hers then looked at him and smiled "They absolutely wonderful, just like the person who made them." she gushed.
Elusive blushed, he appreciated the compliment but her holding his hands and her smile made it ten times better.
"W-well thank you, darling, I hope to open a bouquet in the future and I'm not sure about it"
"Don't say that, you are already a great designer and with the magnificent clothes you're making now, you will have the best bouquet there is out there," she exclaimed then hugged him.
He was taken aback but hugged tightly back "thank you for your words, I appreciate it,"
*BELL RINGING*
They let go of each other and smiled at each other. Claire was the first to speak.
"well I guess ill see you later, okay"
"Yeah, I'll see you later"
Claire turned to leave but before she did, she felt lips on her cheek.
"This is a thank you for your compliment," he whispered in her ear.
Claire quietly said your welcome and left quickly, she was very flustered, a gorgeous guy kissed her cheek.
♔♔♔♔♔♔♔♔♔♔♔♔♔♔♔♔♔♔♔♔♔♔
~after school now club time~
Claire went to the big hall since Bubble mentioned that she was decorating it for some reason.
When she walked in, she was met by crates filled with bottles, they had apple symbols on them. Walking further in she saw the lunch lady.
I didn't have a club yet but Bubble berry told me to go to the hall and meet him because he needed help with decorations. She stood there for a few minutes till she turned around and noticed her.
"Hi sweetie, your that new girl people keep talking about, The names smith but people call me granny smith," She said, she had a warm smile on her face. This made Claire feel comfortable.
"Hi, it's nice to meet you, granny, what's going on?" Before she could get an answer the door opened.
"Hey, granny! We got the order of cider for ya!"
Granny and Claire turned to look and saw two boys one had pale brown skin and green eyes. He wore a cowboy hat and looked about six for tall. The other guy had pale pink skin with green eyes.
" Why thank you, deary, just go right ahead and put them there," Granny says. They set the crates and they finally noticing Claire. The first thing the blond hair boy noticed were her eyes. They sparkled. Then her hair, it looked unreal no wonder she was the talk of the school
"Well howdy their partner. You must be new here. The names Applejack" He greeted while tipping his hat.
"I am, my name is Claire Rosalind," She responded.
"Oh this is my brother Big Mcintosh but we call him Big Mac,"
"Eyup"
"You not much of a talker are you?" Claire askes.
"Nooope"
Claire turned to granny "Can I help you in here." Granny smith seemed surprised " You don't have to sweetie." Claire was determined to help."No, I want to help and so I will."
Gran chuckled "What a lovely girl you are, you can help and why don't you date my grandson," she gestured to Applejack. Claire didn't think that was a bad idea but she felt herself burn up.
Applejack chuckle "come on then, you can help me take the ciders out," He gently took her hand. Taking her to the crates he pointed out which needed sorting. During his explanation, he was occupied by the fact he's holding her hands and noticing how small they are compared to his. He found her cute.
While sorting out the crates, Applejack stricked up a conversation.
"So tell me, where are ya from, Claire?
"Well, I'm from Manhattan. My mom expanded her job here and decided to settle here permanently."
"Well, I welcome you to Canterlot-."
The hall doors slammed open revealing four out of breath guys, they looked like they were fighting over something They looked up and saw Claire.
"Claire!" they shouted in sync but then glared at each other. Claire looked at Applejack and noticed he was glaring at the group. He took Claire's hand pulling her along towards them.
The four guys out of breath took notice of their hands and felt a sharp pain in their hear but brushed it off.
"what do you guys want, bursting in here like ya own the place," Applejack was mad, to say the least
"I want Claire," they said in sync still glaring at one another.
'This is going to be one hell of a school year' Claire sighs now being in the middle of now five guys.
Eqestria girls (genderbent)
Claire's pov
It's been 2 weeks since I've started Canterlot high and at this moment I'm running late because my stupid self read Wattpad till 3 am, I think it was 3 am. People call me 'CHS Princess' why I have no idea.
During my first two days, the five guys I met became my friends even though it's a bit awkward since they're not friends. I've tried to sort it out but they won't listen.
I also became the principals' assistant. I usually help them sort out their office, during my free time. After that, they'd give me snacks or buy me lunch, which I obviously accepted.
Just a few days ago I fell on top of Mr Solaris. His hands were on my waist and I felt his abs. I'm still embarrassed, even when he said it was okay.
'I'm exhausted, I hate running. I made it finally '
I was about to walk in the door when I saw a bright light and a boy came out with a cute dog came flying out of the statue. I ran over to check if they're okay. "Hey, are you okay?"
The boy had violet eyes, dark blue hair that had purple and french rose streaks and wistaria skin. He wore a blue buttoned-up shirt with purple trouser they had a big star on them.
"Uh, Dusk?" the dog.
'OMG, the dog is talking, can my morning be any crazier'
"Huh?Jade! You're not supposed-Jade? Are you a ... dog?"
"I...think so. But I have no idea what you are!"
"Um.. your a human like me," I interjected. They looked at me, then dusk touched his face and screamed "AAAAAAAAAAHHH"
I crouched down and touched both his shoulders "Hey hey, calm down, its okay," I reassured him. He looked at me, and touched his nose "My muzzle?!"
'Muzzle? Why would he have a muzzle' I'm so confused, it's too early for this my brain still hasn't processed that fact I'm in school, which I'm late to now'
"Hey let me help you stand up," I said, he nodded and we both stood up but he stumbled a bit. "How come you came through the statue," is asked. He looked worried "Ummm what statute...I didn't come from a statue. What are you talking about?" I gave him 'are you serious look.'
"Dusk there's no point in lying she's seen everything, and we'll need help we're I'm a new world," Jade says. Dusk sighs "Well I'm from a place called Equestria, on top of that I'm actually a pony, and your world is in danger. because of my crown"
"What do you mean in danger?" I asked, he looked stunned.
"You actually believe me"
"Yeah, you jumped out of the statue portal so that's all the evidence I need."
He hugged me and I hugged back "thank you."
"I want to talk more but we have to go to school, we can talk there," I took his arm and dragged him, completely forgetting he can't walk yet. He almost fell but I caught him.
I giggled "Let's teach you to walk, one foot forward at a time." He nods it took a few tries and he got it. We reached the doors, he stood back and banged his head on the door.
"Omg are you okay? What were you thinking?" I checked his head for any injury.
He grunts and gasps "My magic! It isn't working!"
Jade looks at him "Makes sense since you don't have your horn."
"What!" He looked at me "Your world doesn't have magic does it."
I shook my head "Nope. We'll get you a mirror so you can see yourself"
We walked into school and it was empty till the bell rang. Then students start to flood the hallways. I looked at Dusk and well he wasn't doing so good, he bumped into a few people.
"Huh?Oo?," He bumped into Flash. He looked at him "Are you okay?" He nods his head and Flash leaves not before greeting me.
Dusk looked estranged "This really isn't like Pony Ville," Jade says.
[Dusk shine]
I've never seen a place
That's quite like this
Everything is turned around
This crazy world is upside-down
We walk down the hall and Dusk tripped and I helped him up.
Getting on my feet
It's the hand that I was dealt
But I don't have much time with them
Got to learn all that I can
He looked at me with determination in his eye. I took him to look around to explore. While I saying hi to a few people.
They don't use any magic or fly with any wings
I don't get these funny clothes, skinny legs or tiny nose
Everything's confusing when it seems so new
But I look a little closer and it starts to feel familiar too
I didn't notice but he walked into the girl's bathroom and I quickly pulled him out. Apologising to the girls in there.
What a strange new world (what a strange new world)
I'm trying to make heads or tails of this strange new world (what a strange new world)
Sorting through the small details of this strange new world
What a strange new world
3rd pov
~ In the hallway~
Both Dusk and Rosalind plus jade were walking down the hallway till they heard a bang. They turned down the corner and saw Butterscotch being confronted by Sunburst.
"Oh, I'm really sorry. I-I just found it, and-and I thought I should give it to him. I didn't know you dropped it," Butterscotch says, he was terrified and no one helped him.
" Well, I did! And I was about to get it before you swooped in and ruined everything! You shouldn't pick up things that don't belong to you," Sunburst scolded Butterscotch.
Both Dusk and Rosalind were mad.
"It....doesn't belong to you either," Butterscotch says rather quietly.
"Excuse me?!" Sunburst traps Butterscotch with both his arms which makes Butterscotch cower in fear. "N-n-nothing."
"That's what I thought. It's as good as mine, and you know it. You really are pathetic. It's no wonder your best friends are all stray animals."
Something snapped in the three that were watching.
"How dare you speak to him like that!," Dusk shouted which gets Sunburst attention
"What did you say?"
"He said 'How dare you going as far as to bully Butterscotch," Rosalind exclaimed.
"Oh look at who it is," Sunburst holds Rosalind's chin and tilts it up "Princess of Carntlot high is gracing me with her presence, why don't you run along to your subjects," he chuckles.
Rosalind was disgusted, she moves back and wipes her chin "Those aren't my subjects they are my friends and I won't stand here and watch you bully one of my best friends. Leave him alone!" She glares at him.
Dusk stands between them.
"Oh, you must be new here. I can speak to anyone anyway I want," he smirks. he walks off and scares a student into shutting themself in their locker. Rosalind rushes to help him out while Sunburst walks away.
Butterscotch looked at both Roselind and Dusk "I can't believe you guys did that."
"We couldn't just stand there and watch him bully you," Rosalind says while pulling Butterscotch into a tight hug. Butterscotch automatically hugged back and nuzzled his face in her hair. 'Her hair smells like flowers and she's warm. It's soothing ' He thought feeling relaxed in her arms.
Rosalind broke free from the hug and smiled at him. Butterscotch pouted, hed didn't want to stop hugging but he knew too. He turned to Dusk "I don't think I've seen you around. Did you just transfer to Canterlot high from another school?"
Dusk tried to give a straight answer "Um...yes!Another...heh, School! My name's Dusk." Rosalind mentally face palmed "He's my cousin and he just transferred here."
"Oh well...I'm Butterscotch," he said quietly looking down.
Dusk didn't hear him "Sorry, what was that?"
Even quieter "I'm Butterscotch"
At this point Dusk was very confused this didn't go noticed by Rosalind "It sounds like you said Butterscotch but how can that be-."
The extremely shy boy's eyes had stars in them and he squealed "Oh, my goodness! Who's this sweet little girl?" He started to pet Jade "That's his dog Jade isn't she cute," Rosalind answered
"She is cute!" He started fumbling in his bag and pulled out a treat "Go on, eat up little pup!"
Jade sniffed it and ate it.
Butterscotch stared in awe "Oh, wouldn't ya give anything to know what they're really thinking about?"
"He usually tells me," Dusk responded without thinking.
Butterscotch was puzzled "Oh, w-what do you mean?"
"He meant they have such a strong bond it's like she can talk to him," Rosalind said to help cover up his mistake. "Umm... Sunburst said you picked something up that belonged to him. It wasn't a crown, was it?"
"How did you know"
"uh, lucky guess? Do you still have it?"
"Mm-hmm. This morning, I was passing out flyers for the animal shelter like I do every Wednesday. Something hit the back of my head, it was the crown and I had no idea how it got there. I didn't want anything to happen to it, so I decided to give it to Principal Solaris."
"principal Solaris? He's the ruler here," Dusk asks.
"You could say that. Technically, I guess she and Vice principal midnight do make the rules," Butterscotch responded.
"I can take you there, besides we have to pass through there anyways," Rosalind says while taking Dusks hand in his. She started to walk with him to the office.
Butterscotch noticed they were holding hands and it didn't sit right with him."Wait!" He called out, they both turned around. When they looked at him, he couldn't tell them he didn't want them holding hands could he, then he noticed Jade. "You might want to hide Jade in your bag, they don't really allow animals on school grounds. That's what I do" He opens his bag and his bunny Angel, his cat Puddy tat and his red bird Jay come out of his bag.
They came up to Rosalind and they rubbed up against her. She pets them all. Dusk nods and Jade jumps in his bag.
*SCHOOL BELL RINGS*
"Oh, I'm late for class. Come on guys," Butterscotch ushers the animals in his bag.
Rosalind and Dusk wave goodbye at Butterscotch.
Eqestria girls (genderbent)
~in the principal's office~
Claire's pov
We reached the principal's office and Dusk knocked.
"Come in"
When we entered we saw Principal Solaris looking through my folder, when he looked at me he closed it quickly "Claire? this is quite a surprise. You didn't show up for your classes earlier we thought you were sick"
"Sorry sir, I missed my alarm clock and I woke up late. Then my cousin came to visit so I brought him here."
"I see...Well Claire since, this is your first time being late, I'll let you off this time but make sure it doesn't happen again," he said which makes me sigh in relief
He turned his head and looked at Dusk "Now then, who are you?"
"My name is Dusk Shine and I'm a distant cousin of Claire"
"Her parents are staying at our house for a while and they didn't want her to stay home. I was wondering if you could allow her to enrol in the school please," I asked.
"This is a strange situation but I will allow him to stay, considering her family issues. Welcome to Canterlot High Mr Shine," he smiled at him.
Dusk's face light up "Thank you, Principal Solaris. By the way Principal Solaris, I understand that Butterscotch found a crown this morning and gave it to you."
"Yes, I've had had vice-principal Midnight put it somewhere for safekeeping. No idea how it ended up in the front lawn. Were you interested in running for Prince of the Fall Formal this year"
"Uh, no. Not exactly. The truth is...Well, the truth is I...You see, the crown is actually..." I hit his foot, which grabs his attention 'Prince of the fall Formal' I mouthed at him. He looked confused "Prince of the Fall Formal?"
"It's Carntlot High's big fall dance," Principal Solaris answered.
"Like the Grand Galloping Gala"
The Principal looked confused "Uh, Grand Galloping Galla?"
"Oh it's just something that they did in his old school," I answered while nudging the guy beside her.
"And was there a prince?" The Principal asked.
"Yes but he wasn't exactly human," Dusk answered, I mentally faced palmed.
"Here at Canterlot High, the students select one of their peers to represent them. He receives his crown at the Fall Formal," Principal Solaris explained while showing pictures of Sunburst through the years that he's won the Fall Formal.
'He looks meaner in the last two pictures and his last picture looked like he conquered the world. I really don't get the hype of winning the Formal dance but this year its different it involves magic.'
Dusk shine spoke up while we walked out of his office "Hmm. You asked me if I was interested in running for Prince. Can anyone run?"
"Yes. You just need to let the head of the Fall Formal planning committee know you'd like to be on the ballot. Oh and Claire"
"Yes," I turned towards him.
"Dusk will be in your classes so show him around and take him to Bubble Berry and I'll need you tomorrow after school to sort something out for the Formal." He hands Dush the same schedule as mine. "Now move along you two and if you need anything else, my door is always open," He then slams the door shut.
I peek through the door which caught the principals attention "Are you okay?" I asked.
"Yes, I'm fine. It's just that I have a lot of work, so no need to worry. Now run along," he said with a fake smile.
I closed the door and head into the hallway and spike pops his head out of the bag.
♔♔♔♔♔♔♔♔♔♔
3rd pov
~ in the hallways~
Barbra looked at Dusk "Dusk, Why didn't you just tell him the crown was yours and ask for it back?"
"Oh. I was going to, but imagine if one of them showed up in Equestria saying they came from a place with tall, flesh, two-legged creatures with these?" He started gesturing to his hands and even lifted his leg to make a point "We'd think they're crazy!" Just across the hallway Micro Chips saw this and turned away quickly like he saw nothing.
Barbra hummed "You make a good point"
"Looks like if I want my crown back, I'll have to become Prince of Canterlot High Fall Formal. So that's what I'm going to do!" He lifted his and looked very determined.
"And how exactly do you plan on doing that?"
"I have no idea!" He exclaimed with his hands still in the air with the same expression.
Claire giggled "It will be hard because you're running up against Sunburst and he manipulates and bullies people to get what he wants. However your opposite from him so all you have to do is be yourself and I'll be there to help you get your crown back."
Dusk looked at her almost in tears and hugged her "Thank you, Claire"
She hugged back "No worries its what friends do." They broke free from the hug.
*School Bell Ring*
"Come on we have a class before lunch"
Author's Note
Harem
pinkie pie - bubble berry
Age- 18
Height- 5'9
Applejack - will remain the same
Age- 18
Height- 6'0
Twi-sci - Dusk shine
Age- 17
Height- 5'5
Sunset shimmer - Sunburst
Age- 18
Height- 5'9
Rarity - Elusive
Age- 18
Height- 5'8
Flutter shy- Butter scotch
Age- 17
Height- 5'8
Rainbow dash - Rainbow blitz
Age- 18
Height- 5'8
Trixie - Trixter
Age: 17
Height: 5'7
Celestia : Solaris stars
Age: 27
Height: 6'0
Luna : Midnight moon
Age: 25
Height 5'11
Eqestria girls (genderbent)
3rd pov
~In the cafeteria~
It was lunchtime, Dusk and Claire were getting lunch from the cafeteria. Classes went smoothly, Dusk was pretty smart and loved learning about science here and history. There a few looks on the way, since there were stuck together like glue. As the two were getting lunch, Butterscotch was ahead of them and Dusk sparked up a conversation.
"I know we've just met, but I was wondering if you might be able to help me with something," he asked him, while he copied the lunch he chose.
"Of course"
" I've decided to run for Prince of the Fall Formal, and–"
Butterscotch gasped and dropped his fruits salad which spilt all over Dusk's shirt, he notices the mess he's made "Oh! Oh, gosh! Sorry!" He grabs all the napkins and scrubs furiously trying to dry off Dusk's shirt ."It's just, oh, running for Fall Formal Prince is a really bad idea."
"Why?" Claire asked while helping Butterscotch dry off Dusk shirt. Once they were done Butterscotch threw them away and placed her hands on Dusk's shoulders.
"Sunburst Glare wants to be Fall Formal Prince, and when he wants something, he gets it! He'll make life awful for anyone who stands in his way. Just ask the boy who ran against him for Prince of the Spring Fling," he says, while the trio continues to get lunch.
"I have to try!" Dusk states as they followed Butterscotch to a table.
"Oh, I don't think you understand. You'd have to convince everyone here to vote for you instead of her: the athletes, the fashionistas, the dramas, the eco-kids, the techies, the rockers...," he points out different groups of people in the cafeteria.
Dusk looked confuse "Why is everypony-" Barbra pos out of his bag and smack his forehead and ducks back in "Uh, everybody separated this way?"
"Maybe it was different at your old school, but at CHS, everybody sticks to their own kind. One thing that they do have in common is that they know Sunburst Glare is gonna rule the school until we graduate." They sat down at their table.
"Not if I can help it!" Claire declares, gaining both of the boy's attention "I said I'll help Dusk get that crown and that's what I'll do no matter what. We have to show people you're the complete opposite of Sunburst and what an actual prince should be. You kind, caring and cute just like Butterscotch." She said which causes Butterscotch to blush. "We are getting you that crown Dusk!"
"Yeah!" Dusk cheered and grabbing his apple with his mouth and chewed on it.
Clare giggles "Let's go to the head of the party planning committee?"
♔♔♔♔♔♔♔♔♔♔
3rd pov
~In the main hall~
Claire opened the door to the main hall and the trio walked in "He should be in here, His name is-" She was interrupted by someone yelling.
"Incoming!" The three ducked as a bunch of streamers came flying towards them. They ended up covered in colourful streamers, Dusk stood up and helped Claire as well "Bubble Berry!"
He turned around while blowing a balloon. Dusk stared at Bubble for a minute "Bubble Berry?" Bubble Berry lets go of the ballon and jump towards Claire wrapping his arms around her "Claire! What are you doing here?" Before she could answer he turned around and notices Dusk, he gasps "A NEW FACE!" He exclaimed.
He grabbed him by the shirt and looked into his eyes "Are you a psychic?"
Dusk looked puzzled "Uh, no. I don't think so. Unless of course, that's something you can do here."
He lets him go and shrugs "Not usually." He goes back and blows another balloon, standing rather closely to Claire. Once he was done blowing his ballon he looked at Claire. "Bubble Berry this is my distant cousin Dusk, he just came to school for a few days."
"Well, welcome to Canterlot High Dusk!" What can I help you with?"
"Butterscotch said this is where I'd find the head of the Fall Formal planning committee."
Bubble's expression changed quickly "Butterscotch huh? Don't let that sweet name fool you. He can be a real meanie."
"You two aren't friends?" Dusk asked.
"No they aren't, they had a huge fight and since then, they haven't spoken to each other," Claire answered.
Bubble was once again inches away from Dusk's face eyed him from every angle "Now that I'm really looking at you...Do you have a twin brother who lives in the city, has a pet dog named Barabra that looks just like that one?"
"Um...maybe?"
"Thought so. Anyhoo, just need to fill this out and you are officially up for the coveted Prince of the Fall Formal crown." He holds out a clipboard and pulls out a pen out of his hair. Bubble smiles, but the light violet face shifts into a puzzled face after a long, silent moment, he grins and clamps his teeth on the end of the pen. Bubble's smile never flattens and Claire mentally faced palmed as Dusk racks his brain on how to use the pen. He glanced towards Claire, who gestures secretly gestured to her hands.
He plucked it out of his mouth and clumsily scribbled something on the clipboards. Bubble turns it around for a look, what he sees makes the board briefly pop out of his grip. "Wow! You have really bad handwriting. It's like you never held a pen before."
Dusk let out a nervous chuckle dropping the pen and scratching his head "It is?"
The door slammed open and a voice follows it was a thick southern accent, this gets their attention quickly "Somebody order a dozen cases of fizzy apple cider?" Applejack came in carrying crates.
"Ooh, ooh! Me!" Bubble shouted running towards applejack, who was sitting down the crate. Taking off off the hat and wiping his forehead. "Me, me, me! Me! Yeah! Uh-huh! Me!"
Dusk was taken back by the new arrival, his jaw dropped and Claire gently closed it.
"Can you bring in the rest?" Applejack yelled out.
"Ee-yup," in walks in Big Mac with four crates and Applejack takes the top crate off, he stops and spots dusk and Claire.
"Howdy Claire, whatcha doing here?" Before she could answer he looked wide-eyed at Dusk "Hey, I know you!"
"You do?"
He sets the crates down and pulled out a bottle "Sure! You're the new guy who gave Sunburst Glare the what-for today." He popped the cap with his teeth, and takes a swig as Bubble comes into view "Dusk Shine here is gonna run against Sunburst Glare for Prince of the FallFormal."
The mouthful of cider Applejack is working on finds its way back out meanwhile, the pink party-lover blows up the balloon in her hand and floats up.
Applejack looks at Dusk in disbelief "I'd think twice about that," Bubble drifts past "Oh, sure, he'll probably approach you all friendly-like..."
He yanks Bubble back to the floor, grabs the balloon from his mouth, and starts drawing on it while the latter goes to work on a fresh round one. Cut to a point a few feet above the floor; the heart balloon is held up into view, now bearing a rough sketch of a beaming Sunburst.
"I sure am lookin' forward to some friendly competition," Applejack says mimicking Sunburst voice. His other hand hoists the second one, decorated with Dusk's face. He mimics Dusk's voice "That's so good to hear." he goes back to his normal voice "But then." He turns the Sunburst balloon around, showing a pin taped to that side. "Here come the backstabbing "
One quick jab and Dusk's avatar has burst into a scatter of rubber scraps; the stunned real one watches as they drift down around his. Applejack lets go of the Sunburst balloon, but a quick jump and mouth-grab by Bubble save it from the rafters
"About the only by at this school you can trust less than Sunburst is Rainbow Blitz," Applejack sneered, Claire rolled her eyes.
"Rainbow Blitz?" Dusk asked.
Bubble bounces past on a gigantic balloon "He's the captain of a lie every team at Cnaterlot High."
"He's also the captain of sayin' he's gonna do somethin' for you, and then turnin' around and not even botherin' to show up!" Applejack ranted.
"Did you even bother to ask why he didn't come or something could have happened," Claire questioned.
He looked away, still looking angry "No because he bailed on me and he knew it was important."
"Are you sure about that?"
"I've never been more sure in mah life."
Dusk came in between them and faced him "Thanks for the advice, Applejack, but this is something I really need to do."
He shrugged his shoulders "Hmph. Suit yourself," He looked at him suspiciously "Hey...how'd you know my name was Applejack?"
"I told him about you," Claire answered quickly.
Dusk looked nervous "Well, uh, it was sure nice meeting you both. I'm sure I'll be seeing you around!" He rushes out the door.
Before Claire left, she took Applejacks apple cider, drank a bit from it, and then handed it back to him. "Thanks," she said and ran off to find Dusk.
Bubble pops beside him and watches her run off "That one's trying to hide a secret, but I am totally on to him." He leaned in and whispered, "He's a psychic!"
Applejack wasn't really listening and was looking at the bottle Claire just drank out of but just hummed to agree with whatever Bubble said.
He was quickly snapped out of his daze by the sound of the doors being thrown open. The students came in; Sunburst, Snips, and Snails.
"This looks terrible!" Sunburst fumed, he strides to the centre of the court "There should be more streamers near the stage and fewer balloons!"
"Yeah streamer," Snips said, ripping a streamer in two.
"And fewer balloons," Snip says, attempting to pop a balloon but ends up falling.
Sunset walks towards where the crates of apple cider were, he held up a bottle "Fizzy apple cider? Ugh! This is my coronation, not a hoedown!"
"Well, now, it ain't necessarily gonna be your coronation this time around," Applejack stated. Sunburst whips over into his face, which causes Bubble to be thrown off balance.
"Oh, is that so?," He turned Applejack's hat backwards, pulling it over his face. "You countryfolk really aren't that bright. Must be why the other students say such awful things about you."
The crown flips up to expose a pair of indignant green eyes and a circle of a face that has gone red and steaming with fury. A barely suppressed growl floats up through the opening, across the way, Sunburst approaches the stage
"Obviously it's gonna be my coronation, I'm running unopposed"
"Not this time! The new boy just signed up," Bubble help up the clipboard "Plus Claire is helping him."
"What!?" Sunburst snatch the clipboard and looked closely at the board.
"I know," he laughed "His handwriting is really bad.
He had a menacing look, his voice deepened "Where is this Dusk Shine and Claire Rosalind?"
Looking around himself, he realizes that he is getting a bit too much attention from Applejackand Bubble and quickly shifts gears with a laugh. Applejack has his hat back on the right way around, crown and all.
"I'm looking forward to meeting the competition."
Party organizer and country girl exchange a slightly bewildered look as they watch Sunburst leave.
Eqestria girls (genderbent)
Author's Note
Characters:
Apple bloom - Apple buck
Sweetie bell - Sliver bell
Scootaloo - Scooteroll
Cheerilee - Cherryloo
Spike- Barbara
Chapter 6
~In the hallway~
3rd pov
Dusk was following Claire to his next class, he got distracted and took a wrong turn to a dead end. The light above the flickered, Barbara, popped out the bag then someone spoke up.
"Can't believe I didn't recognize you earlier"
Dusk turned around to see Sunburst leaning on a locker ad now was walking up to him. " Should have known Prince Solaris would send his prized pupil here after my crown," he jabbed his finger at Barbara "and his little dog too."
"It's my crown," Dusk said, he glared at Sunburst.
"Whatever," He said. He circled around him like he was a predator "This is just a minor setback for me. You don't know the first thing about this place, and I already rule it."
"If that's so, why do you even need my crown? You went to an awful lot of trouble to switch it with the one that belongs here, "Sunburst stops and faces him.
" Pop quiz. What happens when you bring an Element of Harmony into an alternate world?" Dusk tries this query over a few dozen times, but no immediate answer.
"You don't know? Seriously?" He giggles "And you're supposed to be Prince Solaris's star student?... Then again...What were the chances he'd find somepony as bright as me to take under her wing after I decided to leave Equestria? Bit embarrassing that you were the best he could do." He walked past him smirking.
Barbara lunges halfway out of the backpack and snapped at him. Sunburst scratched his chin "Oh, and I'd keep an eye on your mutt. Hate for him to be...taken away from you.
"Is that a threat," barbara growled.
He smiled sweetly "Of course not," Barbara bark at him but Sunburst quickly shut her up by placing his finger to his lips and dropping his tone "But I'd cut down on the chatter if I were you. Don't want everyone to know you two don't belong here, now, would you? Do you want to be a prince here? Please." He starts to walk back to the school hallway "You don't know the first thing about fitting, oh and don't rely on Claire too much it's quite pathetic."
He walks past the two dejected new arrivals under an overhead light that stutters fitfully before burning out for good. Sunburst walks down leisurely down the hallway, he stops short, surprise registering on his face as Snips and Snails lurch into view each of them heavily wrapped in streamers of all colours like Technicolor mummies.
When they are within arm's reach, the boss grabs a free end on each and delivers a swift yank, unwinding them in a split second but leaving them very dizzy
"I want you to follow him. Bring me something I can use, just like you did with that last boy who thought he could challenge me. Oh, and follow Claire again and this time don't mess up," he demanded. He gets a salute from snips and snails.
"You got it, Sunburst," Snips says.
The atmosphere becomes heavy, a dark shadow clouds of Sunburst "When the crown and its power are mine, Dusk shine will be sorry he ever set hoof into this world—not that she would have been much safer if he'd stayed in Equestria," he let out a menacing laugh.
"Yeah, in Equestria," Snips says.
This interrupted Sunbursts evil moment, he glared at them "What are you still doing here?!? Go!" Snips and snails run oof unbeknownst to Claire was listening, once the two boys left she made her presence be known.
"Oh look it's her highness, are you here to join me rule the school now," Sunburst asked while approaching her.
"You know that's never going to happen and I heard you plan. I will make sure Dusk gets that crown."
He grabbed her arm and placed his other around her waist "I'm giving you the option to be mine before your reputation is ruined. We can rule this school together," his grip tightened around her waist.
Claire struggled but managed to get out of his grip "I won't be yours, leave me alone. I won't let you get the power from the crown."
"Oh, so you know about it," he chuckled "Do what you want princess" he turned around to leave "Just watch your back." Claire watched him as he walked away, if looks could kill he'd be dead. She walked off to find Dusk.
She found Dusk about to kick the vending machine "Dusk!" She yelled. He stood up as Trixter had also arrived. "Oh if it isn't Claire and the new kid."
"Hey Trixter," Claire grated him.
'Trixter ' Dusked thought surprised.
"The Great and Powerful Trixter," he pulls out a coin "needs some peanut butter crackers" He walks up to the vending machine and places the coin in the coin slot and picks the crackers.
"Voila!" He said happily and turned to Claire "Whose the new kid, I heard he stood up top Sunburst."
"This is Dusk Shine, he's a distant relative and he's running for Prince of the Fall Formal."
Trixter's eyes widened "Really! Trixter is impressed! No one ever goes against Sunburst for Prince of the Fall Formal. I applaud you for your courage, even you Claire."
"Huh? Me?"
"You stand up to Sunburst all the time. Your pretty popular with your kind nature and great looks," he winked at her. Claire faces warmed up, she smiled and hugged him "Thanks Trixter. I think your amazing and powerful."
Trister pulled back from the hug "Well the all mighty powerful Trixter has places to be so goodbye." Within a flash, he was gone.
Claire turned to the vending machine, she placed a coin in then pressed a few buttons. Out came a packet of an oat bar, she handed it to Dusk "Here you go ."
Dusk held it in his hands, with a sad expression "You know Sunburst is right."
"About what."
He look at Claire "I don't know the first thing about this place. If I'm gonna really fit in and win the vote," his confidence started returning "We need to do some research."
"Research?" Barbara asked.
"Yes, this school must have a library right, Claire."
"Yep, it does."
Let's go," he started walking in the opposite direction.
"Other way Dusk"
Dusk nervously chuckled nervously and grabbed Claire's arm, then dragged her down the hall towards the library. He slapped the door open and basked in the glory seeing the magnificent new books, he gets to read.
As the two walked in, Snips peeks his head behind the open doors "Got the phone," snips whispered. Snails puts his head around the edge of the other door and holds up a cell phone with a smirk. Cut to his perspective as he lifts it to frame his partner in crime for a camera photo.
"You got yours?" Snails whispered back, Snips pulls it out and snickers. He whips past the door and starts to edge sidewise past the circulation desk, while Snails drops onto his belly and literally worms his way across the floor.
Claire had left to wander around the library, Dusk was trying to figure out how to use a computer. He blinked and stared uncomprehendingly at it. His backpack rests on the floor next to him on the floor and Barbara claimed out. Meanwhile behind him, Cherryloo was re-shelving a cartload of books.
"So I just push the letters here...," Dusk pressed a few keys in confusion. Cherryloo winces noticeably, trying to keep his cool "and then the words and moving pictures will come up here?" Dusk lifted the computer, examining it.
Cherryloo guided the monitor back down "That's right."
"Maybe this place does have magic," Dusks astonished.
Cherryloo rolled his eyes and the cart, exposing Snips and Snails crouched down behind it with phones in hand. Claire noticed them, she followed them around. She crept up behind them and grabbed their phones and crushed them.
The two boys fell back startled and looked at her in horror as they watched their phones being crushed. "Why are you taking pictures of him. I bet Sunburst put you up to this, didn't he?" she glared at them both, if she didn't have control over her powers the books would be flying everywhere.
"I-i-its none of your business," Snips st----
"Y-Yeah and you owe us new phones."Snails...
"I can report you guys to the principal for taking pictures secretly of somebody and using them wrongfully. It's against school rules and the law," she leaned in towards them "There are cameras everywhere and we don't want to be in bug trouble do we" she smiled sweetly.
Snips and Snails frantically shake their heads, they got up quickly and ran out of the library. As they ran they stumble over each rather, knocking some books on the shelves.
Out nowhere music was blasting throughout the library, Claire made her way to the sound and she found herself at the computers where she left Dusk. The Cutie Mark Crusaders are grooving hard to the beat. The tune is that of their song in "The Show Stoppers."
Cherryloo was fed us at this point, he switches off the speaker and sighs loudly "Boys, what are you doing?!"
"We're just seeing how many hits our new music video has gotten," Sliver exclaimed. Apple buck turned up the music and all three started dancing.
Cherryloo was fed up "No just...," he took the speaker in his arms "The school computers are for research purposes only!"
Claire chuckled as she watched Cherryloo walk away with the speakers in his arms. She walked up behind the three and hugged them from behind "You guys gives Cherryloo such a hard time you know."
"Oh Cherryloo loves us," Silver said.
"Howdy Claire, How ya doing," Apple Buck asked as each boy hugged her.
"I'm great but what are you guys doing"
"Remember the song we did, well we posted it and now. We're going to check out the reviews we got," Scooteroll said
"You guys do that, I'm going to help Dusk over there," she looked up and across from the Dusk was working on the keyboard with his knuckles, the hands closed into fists as if he still possessed hooves.
Claire walked over to him and showed him how to use it properly.
Applebuck looked through the comments "Some of the comments about our song were really awful. 'Epic fail'... funniest thing I've ever seen.'
Silver's face lightened up "Funniest thing they've ever seen, huh?"
The other two young brains quickly tune in on his wavelength, but Dusk and Claire have a much more concerned reaction.
"Uh, I don't know that that's what you should take from...," Dusk's words fell to, deaf ears as the three ran past him out of the library.
Claire placed her hand on his shoulder "Don't worry their always like that." Dusk and Claire went back to business as Claire helped him n his research and how to use a computer.
They stopped and moved on to books, Claire sat on the bean bag and took and nap as she let Dusk read.
She was woken up by the announcement "The library will be closing in five minutes."
Claire stretched, she looked over to Dusk and Barbara who was piling up books "What are you doing?" she asked.
"Since I have no place to go, I'm going to sleep in the library."
"No, you're staying at my house"
"Are you sure, I don't want to intrude"
"No it's fine plus my parent will love you"
Dusk shoved a book in his bag, placed Barabra in his bag "Let's go!" She grabbed his hand and dragged him out of the school, they took a bus home. It did take awhile, Dusk was fascinated by everything he saw.
Claire unlocked the door "Hey mum! Dad! We have guests! " She yelled.
Claire mother Akira's head popped out of one of the doors "Well hi there," she walked up to the dress with an apron. Her father John followed behind wearing matching aprons with his wife "Who might you be?"
"Ummm I'm Dusk and I really need a place to stay, just for a few days. I promise not to be a bother."
"Have you talked to your parents about this, I don't want to be reported for kidnapping or anything," Akira said worriedly.
"He's not from here," Claire said.
Her parents looked at her confused, she took Dusk's hand and guided everyone to the living room. Claire sat next to Dusk while her parents sat opposite them.
She cleared her throat "Dusk here is from a place called Equestria, and everyone is a pony. He's here because someone stole his crown and the person who took it lost it and now whoever wears it gets powers. The person who stole it is doing everything in their power to make sure they get the crown and that means bad news, literally the end of the world!" Claire exclaimed taking a deep breath.
Her parents looked at her with a blank face, Barbara broke the silence popping her head out of the bag after taking a long nap "Hey, have you told your parents about us?" He turned around to her parents that stared at her shocked. She chuckled nervously "I guess not," she slowly slid back down in the bag.
"Claire please go to the kitchen and check on the food, we'll talk to Dusk okay," her mother said.
Claire gently squeezed Dusk's hand, reassuring him. Claire left and went and did as she was told. Arguing with her mother was not an option, even her father was afraid of her when she gets mad.
Claire sorted out dinner, it was pilau with steamed cabbage. Pilau did contain beef which she can eat since she was half-human. 'If Dusk was a pony, doesn't that mean she's vegetarian?' Claire started another dish, she made him vegetable fried rice.
The door clicked open and Claire popped her head out the door. Her dad was holding Barbara in his arms scratching her under her chin. He's always wanted a dog buy mom didn't want one for some reason.
"Hey angel, your mom said dusk can stay. So let's set up the table, and give this little cutie the dog treats," he said gushing over Barbara. Her father was about to set up the table but Claire was already on it, she used her powers and all the plates and utensils were placed perfectly on the table.
John turned to her and sighed "You really should use your powers less, or at least not in the kitchen for safety reasons."
Claire rolled her eyes "Dad it's fine, I'm quite good at using my powers," She said as the pots filled with food were floating in the air and serving spoons were dishing out the food.
John placed Barbara down and took the floating pans and spoons and placed them down "Tha's what you said last year. Knives were flying everywhere."
Claire groaned "It was just hormones dad, it's not like mom didn't have her moment."
"What moment," Akira said, she came into the kitchen with Dusk.
"Nothing," John and Claire blurted.
She sighed and crossed her arms "Well then, Dusk will be staying for as long as he needs to. He will be in your room for now so no funny business," they all sat down at the dinner "Dusk. Claire. If you guys are in trouble call me or John, considering that crown is from another world I understand it will cause some chaos. Now let's have supper."
Supper went on without a hitch, Barbara enjoyed it the most. Claire's father had top quality dog treats in case he sees a stray dog and lead them home. He knows Akira can't say no to a stary that ends up in our house.
Claire and Dusk got ready for bed, her pyjamas fit but was baggy since she was wider them him. They had an air mattress set out for Dusk, they had strict rules to not sleep in together. Her parents were at the door, making sure everything was fine. Once the two were in bed, they kissed them both goodnight and switched off the light.
"Hey, Claire," Dusk whispered.
"Yeah"
"I think we should get Elusive, Rainbow blitz, Applejack, Bubble and Butterscotch back together"
"Is this because they're your friends in Equestria."
"Yeah, I think I can do it. I'm the Prince of friendship after all"
"We can try"
"Thanks for letting me stay here by the way"
"It's fine. I like helping people," she slurred, with that she fell asleep and so did Dusk.
Eqestria girls (genderbent)
Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.