It was nearly time for Crystal Prep to start heading on over to Canterlot High to meet their rival school for the Friendship Games. Sci-Twi was busy in her private lab that was in the janitor's closet of the school. She kneels on the floor, gathering papers and loading them into a backpack while Spike sits nearby. An athletic jersey lies among the disorder and when she picks it up, the little canine snatches the tail in his jaws and pulls at it with a growl.

Sci-Twi: Ugh! Come on, Spike! I was always gonna go to Canterlot High for the Friendship Games.

The jersey is released to snap back into her face.

Sci-Twi: The only difference now is that I have to compete. Besides, it's not like Principal Cinch gave me much of a choice... or (R/N)...

He gives a piteous little whimper and lies down, earning a consoling pat on the head. This brings him up off the floor with a panting smile.

Sci-Twi: I know, Spike. I don't like it either. I probably won't be able to collect anywhere near as much data as I thought.

Picking up her souped-up compact, she lets a calculating smile steal across her face.

Sci-Twi: But maybe I can still get some.

A second later, she ran a cord through the hole cut in the hinge and knotted it around her neck as an oversized pendant. Spike whimpers again as Sci-Twi picks him up and hugs him.

Sci-Twi: Spike, I wouldn't leave without you.

She then tucks him inside of her backpack.

Sci-Twi: Just remember to be quiet. And try not to shed.

Zipping and shouldering the bag, she strides out of the lab and closes the door behind herself.

Outside in the parking lot, students were lined up to enter the bus that was departing for Canterlot High School. Some of those students in that line included Sour Sweet, Sunny Flare, and (R/N) who didn't look particularly happy at the moment. In fact, now that Cinch has some dirt on him, he's worried about what will happen to both him and his harem.

Sour Sweet and Sunny Flare are quick to take notice of (R/N)'s expression as he even lets out a soft groan making the two girls look at each other in both confusion and concern for their boyfriend.

Sunny Flare: Is something the matter, dearie?

Sunny Flare's voice apparently broke (R/N) out of his stupor as he turned around to his girlfriends.

(R/N): Huh?

Sour Sweet: *sweetly* Naturally, you're always leaping with joy. *sourly* Right now though, I doubt even a leap of faith would get you to that point.

(R/N) quickly shakes his head to get rid of all of the worry that was in his head before changing himself back to his normal serious and cocky expression.

(R/N): Tch. You seriously make me laugh sometimes. I think we've only one girl here who is "sour."

He said before he leaned into Sour Sweet's face making her blush.

(R/N): But she should also know that I find her as "sweet" as candy~

Sour Sweet: *sweetly* *giggles* Oh, sweetie, haven't we discussed this somewhere before? *sourly* Never. Use. Puns. Of my name!

(R/N): Kind of hard when you have such a "sweet" name yourself. Even Sour Patch commercials take after it.

Meanwhile, Sunny Flare crossed her arms and raised an eyebrow as she could've sworn that (R/N) looked downtrodden a second ago and that's not something she sees everyday in her boyfriend.

Sunny Flare: Don't try to slip your way out of this one, (R/N). We agreed that you wouldn't keep secrets from us when we formed this harem. I know something is on your mind.

She gently drags her finger under his chin.

Sunny Flare: Come now, dearie. Tell me what's got you so flabbergasted?

(R/N): *sweats* L-Like what? Nothing bothers the King of Crystal Prep... except Cinch that is...

Sunny Flare: *sigh* What did she do this time? I hope it wasn't another threat to you.

Sour Sweet: *sweetly* Sunny, Cinch would never do such a thing. *sourly* Not while I'm attending this school, she won't.

Hearing that made (R/N)'s eyes widen, but as much as he knows that it would be the right thing to tell them about what happened in the principal's office, the last thing that he wants is to worry his girlfriends that he might be forced to break up with them. He decides to come up with a vague fib to throw off the questions as he turns around.

(R/N): *sighs* It was nothing... Just Cinch's usual blathering, lectures, and blah, blah, blah... It's nothing you need to concern yourself with, Sunny.

Sunny wasn't swayed by that as she approached her boyfriend and gently pressed a hand to his chest.

Sunny Flare: Are you sure that's all it was?

(R/N) looked at Sunny to see a really worried look on her face, but he just gives her a small smile as he pecks her on the forehead.

(R/N): ...Of course I'm sure. Just—Just drop it, okay? Please?

Sunny stares back, still showing her look of worry. She really wanted to know what was bothering him, but she didn't wanna pry into it any further and upset him more than he was, so with a heavy heart, she removed her hand from his chest and resorted to wrap that hand along with the other around (R/N)'s torso, hugging him closely.

Sunny Flare: Well... alright. Just... don't ever feel like you can't share anything with us, okay? You know we'll love you no matter what. At least I always will.

(R/N) was surprised from the quick move of affection as he stared down at Sunny Flare before he slowly hugs her back with a slight smile.

(R/N): *chuckles* You worry too much.

Sunny Flare: Is there really such a thing as a girl worrying too much about the one she loves?

He laughs at that, but a small frown quickly makes itself onto (R/N)'s face as this was just making him a lot more worried that if he doesn't win the Friendship Games then he loses his harem. When he and Sunny break apart, he smiles at both her and Sour Sweet, but all three of them soon see that Sci-Twi has apparently cut in line right in front of them as Sour Sweet gapes while both (R/N) and Sunny Flare glare at her.

(R/N): *quietly* Sounds like someone forgot their manners. What do you girls think?

He asked, but Sour seemed to have already beat him to the punch.

Sour Sweet: *sourly* You could try the END of the line!

(R/N) was surprised to see Sour Sweet take charge, but playfully rolled his eyes.

(R/N): (I was going to say that.)

The violet brainiac turns around, nudging her glasses up when they slip.

Sci-Twi: What did you say?

Sour Sweet: *sweetly* Just that someone as smart as you should definitely go first.

Sci-Twi: I... I didn't mean to. I was just asking.

(R/N) snorts from this as he walks up condescendingly towards Sci-Twi and gives her a piercing glare which makes the purple girl shrink down in fear from him.

(R/N): *sarcastically* Suuure. You just casually walk to the front like it's no one's business, oh, but at least you didn't mean to, so that's automatically fine!

Sci-Twi darts her eyes back and forth from this sarcastic comment.

Sci-Twi: It is?

Almost immediately, (R/N) facepalms from her question.

(R/N): (How is she classified as one of the top students of this school?)

Suddenly, Dean Cadance calls out to Twilight.

Dean Cadance: This is the right bus, Twilight. Go ahead.

Sci-Twi: But... I didn't mean to cut in front.

(R/N) then grabs her from behind and drags her right behind him where Sour Sweet and Sunny Flare were.

(R/N): Then why don't you just stay where you belong like the little pushover that you are!

(R/N) walks ahead as Sunny Flare and Sour Sweet smirk at him for letting Sci-Twi know her place. As (R/N) walks through the doors of the bus, he has not even made it up to the driver's seat before Indigo Zap thrusts herself into (R/N)'s face with beaming confidence.

Indigo Zap: Are we gonna win?!?!

(R/N) paused for a second as that question quickly reminded him of the negotiation with Cinch, but he quickly shakes his head before smirking back at Indigo Zap.

(R/N): I-Is that even a real question?! C-C-Crystal Prep along with their ultimate student NEVER lose!

Indigo Zap: Uh...was it cold when you woke up this morning (R/N)?

(R/N): N-No, why?

Indigo Zap: You were stuttering for a moment there.

(R/N): O-Oh, I was uh...doing the ice bucket challenge! Y-Yeah, that's what I was doing!

Indigo tilts her head at him for a second, but then shrugs her shoulders with a playful smile. When (R/N) passes her, the thought rolls in through his mind again.

(R/N): (I have to win this... If there's one thing that I REALLY can't lose it's you girls...)

He then hears Indigo Zap yelling the same question to Sci-Twi, however he hears a rather timid response from her which made him roll his eyes annoyed. He then looks up ahead to see Sugarcoat with her hand on an empty seat next to her while staring at (R/N). When she sees that (R/N) took notice, she blushes and looks away while (R/N) smiles and walks over to sit right beside her.

(R/N): You saved me a seat? Thanks, Sugarcoat. And here I thought you didn't want to get closer to me.

He said, wrapping an arm around her shoulders.

Sugarcoat: I didn't save you anything. Anyone could've taken that seat; I really don't care.

She tried to deny it, but (R/N) was easily able to see past her façade as he just pecked her on the cheek.

(R/N): Your hand that I clearly saw on the seat said otherwise.

Sugarcoat blushes while crossing her arms, but (R/N) was able to notice a small smile appear on her face which says it all.

Sugarcoat: I was resting my palm. Don't make such a big deal out of it.

(R/N): Yeah, yeah, I love you too.

Sugarcoat groans and throws a small jab to his shoulder. They both then notice Sci-Twi taking a seat next to Lemon Zest as Sci-Twi notices Sugarcoat next to (R/N) and waves to her.

Sci-Twi: Hi, Sugarcoat.

Sugarcoat: That was a really bad speech. You should consider not speaking in public.

(R/N): Or in general for that matter. Your timid, awkward demeanor is very off-putting.

His hurtful words earned a saddened slump from Sci-Twi as she hung her head. As the bus engine revs up, Twilight smiles to herself and opens her pack to let Spike peek out for a second.

Sci-Twi: Well, Spike, at least I've got you with me.

A faint blare of rock music causes Spike to glance off to one side with a whimper. This was clearly from Lemon Zest as she notices Sci-Twi and leans over to place her headphones onto her head.

Lemon Zest: Dude, you have gotta hear this!

Now the music comes through all too loud and clear, prompting Sci-Twi to shudder and moan softly with one eye squinched shut against the assault.

Sugarcoat: You're lucky you didn't sit with her or else you'd be dealing with that.

(R/N): If I knew she was sitting there, I probably would've moved. She certainly knows how to express her love for things, unlike some.

Sugarcoat's eyes narrow as she gives him a slight pinch, forcing a yelp out of him. The bus starts to move and head down the street as they were all now on their way towards Canterlot High School.

At Canterlot High School, the (Hu) Mane 7 or also known as their band name, the Rainbooms, were currently in the music room playing their instruments clearly practicing their skills. All six have ponied up, but the extra features disappear as the final chord dies away. Rainbow Dash stands up from the kneeling position she has assumed.

Rainbow Dash: I hope the Friendship Games have a music competition, because we would totally rock it!

She hits a chord on the end of her psyched out line.

(Y/N): *sarcastically* Yeah, and I'm sure showing off our supernatural abilities to a school that has no knowledge of magic is a great idea too.

Sunset Shimmer: (Y/N)'s right, you know. We're supposed to keep the magic out of the Friendship Games.

Rainbow rolls her eyes and sighs wearily while Rarity was touching up on her makeup.

Rarity: Easier said than done, darling. I'm sure in Equestria, magic does whatever you want. But...

Sunset Shimmer: This isn't Equestria.

(Y/N): You make a fair point. Rainbow just Ponied-Up earlier during the rally without even using her guitar. If that can happen, then we have to keep a close eye on ourselves. Magic just activating out of nowhere might be a problem. Then again... maybe there is something that we're missing in all of this.

Applejack: Well, whatever it is, let's hope it's discovered by the time the games roll around. Last thing we need is to be accused of cheatin'.

Rarity: And while Sunset works on keeping the magic "out" of the games, I've been working on what to put "in!"

She lets out a giggle from this as Applejack looked incensed.

Applejack: Rarity, what'd you go an' do?

Suddenly, a rack of clothes is shoved into view before them. Half of them are athletic outfits in school colors while the rest are dresses in a variety of other styles.

Rarity: Well, I had a little time on my hands, and since we don't know what the Friendship Games' events are, I made a few options for uniforms!

She takes out a Wondercolts soccer uniform and effortlessly slides it onto Rainbow Dash as she rubs an embarrassed hand along the back of her head.

Rainbow Dash: You really didn't have to do that.

Rarity: I know.

Applejack: No. You REALLY didn't have to.

She says as her, Fluttershy, and Sunset were puzzling over the other racks. Pinkie stands up behind them, having switched to a wizard's robe and starry hat and a fake pink beard. (Y/N) then comes out with an outfit clearly made specifically for him as it was a black and (C/C) tank top that had (Y/N)'s favorite two-digit number in the middle of it. There were some (F/C) gloves and even some sunglasses too as he looked at this outfit in shock.

(Y/N): Wow, Rarity... It's almost scary how good you are making outfits that suit us perfectly! I mean... You made THIS specifically for me?!

Rarity: Why, of course I did, dear!

She answered, giving him a peck on the lips.

Rarity: It's my way of showing how much I love you, after all.

(Y/N): When the competition starts, I'm SO putting this on! Rarity, don't ever change! Seriously, I can't think of a better fashionista who knows us so well to make such accurate ensembles!

This makes Rarity both blush and beam at the same time from this compliment.

Rarity: Aw, darling~! You always know the proper words a lady needs to hear.

(Y/N): When that lady shows that she does more than she needs to for her friends then I wouldn't know why she wouldn't deserve those words.

She gives him a hug right afterwards.

Rarity: Love you, dearest~

(Y/N) chuckles and happily reciprocates the hug.

(Y/N): And I love you, my beautiful gemstone.

Outside of Canterlot High School, the Crystal Prep buses have arrived as Vice Principal Luna stands in front of one of them while Principal Celestia was greeting Principal Cinch.

Principal Celestia: Vice Principal Luna can help your students get settled if you'd like me to show you around, Principal Cinch. There have been quite a few changes since your last visit.

Principal Cinch: Oh, yes, Principal Celestia. I'm sure that would be fascinating.

At the bus doors, Crystal Prep students were walking out of the bus as Vice Principal Luna and Dean Cadance were sharing a warm embrace.

Vice Principal Luna: Oh, it's always such a pleasure to see you, Dean Cadance. Even if it means another defeat.

Dean Cadance: Thank you, Vice Principal Luna, but I hear it's not going to be so easy this time.

Only now does Twilight put her head out through the doorway, her backpack slung up and closed and no longer wearing Zest's headphones. After a tentative flick of the eyes back and forth, she draws herself up, adjusts her glasses, and promptly gets shoved aside from behind by the pumped-up Indigo Zap.

Indigo Zap: Comin' through!

Twilight loses her balance and topples off the steps, taking the nearby Sunny down with her. Sour Sweet stares in surprise as the two fallen girls sit up back to back; Twilight adjusts her glasses again and Sunny Flare rounds on her.

Sunny Flare: Seriously?

Sci-Twi: Oh, sorry. I didn't mean to.

Suddenly, a familiar hand immediately grabs Sci-Twi by her neck collar, making her gasp in shock before it throws her to the side of the bus nearly making her slip again. The culprit was none other than (R/N) as he glares daggers into Sci-Twi's face.

(R/N): I have a reputation to maintain here if you don't mind! And you knocking over one of my girls is going to make them AND me look like dirtbags!

Sci-Twi: I-It was only an accident!

(R/N) rolls his eyes and growls a little as hearing her apologize with the same excuse over and over again was getting annoying to him.

(R/N): Hmph! Is that going to be your excuse for everything at this point? You're pathetic! I don't see exactly what Cinch sees in YOU that'll make us win the Friendship Games.

Sugarcoat: I don't know about pathetic, but she's definitely being a doormat right about now.

She joined in, stepping off the bus.

(R/N): Pfft! If she were a doormat, that would imply that she has an ACTUAL purpose for something.

Sugarcoat: Is being a doormat even something though?

(R/N): No. Not really.

Lemon Zest: Yo, hold up! Don't leave me hanging, dudes!

She called from the bus as she hopped off while still jamming to her music. As they all headed off to meet up with their fellow Shadowbolts, Sci-Twi lagged behind when her pendant suddenly came to life and beeped ominously. She lifts it for a closer look and, after a quick glance around herself, aims it toward the building.

Making very sure that no one else is paying her the slightest mind, she grins and jogs toward the doors, Spike putting his head up from her backpack. As she climbs the front steps, Sweetie Drops (Bon Bon) and Lyra Heartstrings are walking down the steps and notice Sci-Twi as they greet her.

Sweetie Drops (Bon Bon): Hi, Twilight.

Not even the slightest break in stride as she becomes puzzled and Lyra shrugs.

Inside of the Canterlot High School lobby, students of Canterlot High were currently going about their day. Sci-Twi just walks into the corridor with her eyes fixed on her little device. She moves into one of the hallways, passing a green-haired rocker girl.

Cherry Crash: Hey, Twilight!

This time, the budding scientist does pause her steps for just a moment, one eyebrow lowering in mild befuddlement. She continues on her way, encountering a few other students going the other direction.

Sweet Leaves: Hi, Twilight.

Mystery Mint: Hi, Twilight.

Scribble Dee: Hey, you. Lookin' good.

Sci-Twi: Um, hi.

Sophisticata: Hey, what's happenin'?

Blueberry Cake: Really nice to see you.

Velvet Sky: Twilight, how ya doin'?

Starlight: Twilight, yo!

Sci-Twi: Hi. Hello. Uh, good.

As Twilight continues her awkward reverse perambulation, she collides with Flash Sentry, sending herself, him, and the cased guitar he carries to the floor. The impact knocks her glasses off to land nearby.

Flash Sentry: Twilight? I almost didn't recognize you.

She, on the other hand, shifts into the classic squint and hands-extended grope of a person in search of missing corrective lenses. One hand finds its way to the fabric of his T-shirt by chance as he glances toward floor level to see Sci-Twi glasses on the ground. He turns to her with a raised eyebrow.

Flash Sentry: When did you start wearin' glasses?

He says as he reaches down for them.

Sci-Twi: Um, like, since forever.

Flash Sentry: Oh, so how long are you here for?

Sci-Twi: Just for the Friendship Games.

Flash Sentry: Right. Of course.

He then slowly and carefully puts her glasses back on her face.

Flash Sentry: Well, (Y/N) is definitely going to be happy to see you here. And with both him AND you, we'll totally win for sure.

Sci-Twi's ear apparently heard a single word or should we say, "name" in that sentence as it was all too familiar to her.

Sci-Twi: Wait... (Y/N)? He's here?!

Flash Sentry: Been here since early this morning actually. Well, I won't get in your way since you're probably eager to see your boyfriend again.

As Flash leaves, Sci-Twi's eyes pop wide open from this and she stares off in silence for a second as she was trying to process what Flash just said in that sentence. She turns her head around in complete confusion before walking off.

Sci-Twi: B-Boyfriend?? What? I-I don't have a boyfriend.

It should be abundantly clear by now that he, and everyone she has encountered, believe her to be Princess Twilight who helped save Canterlot High during the Fall Formal and the Battle of the Bands. Though, that didn't go through Sci-Twi's head as she carried on down the hallway.

The Rainbooms were still in the practice room as Rarity had changed her friends into many unorthodox outfits. However, (Y/N) was currently trying on his brand new Friendship Games clothes that he was going to wear during the events as he was inspecting himself in a mirror with a grin.

(Y/N): Hey, girls. Be honest. Does this make me look skinny? More athletic? It really goes with my hair.

Applejack and Rainbow Dash deadpan at (Y/N) admiring his new outfit that Rarity made for him as they can clearly see that the style of the design has quickly gone into his head.

Rainbow Dash: You look the same in pretty much anything...

Applejack: Ditto.

Rarity then comes up to the cowgirl and inspects her outfit for a brief second.

Applejack: Uh, Rarity, these outfits are great, but why would you put so much time and effort into clothes we might not even wear? You're gonna exhaust yourself before the games even start.

This just makes Rarity sputter out a reaction of disbelief.

Rarity: Don't be silly, darling! Putting effort into clothes is what I live for, and spending time on my friends fills me with energy!

At the end of this... a sparkly blue-violet glow surrounds her, edged by a corona of white, and she ponies up without any warning and strikes a joyful midair pose. This makes the rest of the Rainbooms all murmur in both surprise and delight.

Sunset Shimmer: And magic, too, I guess.

She commented while wearing a... welder's mask.

(Fourth Wall Break)

(Jordanwolfboy9743: *sigh* Okay, when would a welder's mask ever be used in a series of what is basically the high school equivalent of the Olympic Games?)

(The Nintega Guy: I mean... You know how random the Friendship Games events can be. Who knows? Maybe next time they'll have them fixing cars as an event...)

(Shadowlight2784: Wait, how would that work? Would they win the car if they manage to repair it first or...?)

(The Nintega Guy: You want an answer...? Ask Pinkie Pie...)

(Jordanwolfboy9743: *sigh* Nevermind, it's probably best to not question it. She probably had a hand in it anyways.)

(End of Fourth Wall Break)

Meanwhile, Sci-Twi had just arrived outside the music room as her pendant still pulled her along to some unknown source when it suddenly stopped. The direction finder begins to zero in on a heading and once it gets a lock, the device snaps open and circular panels in both halves begin to glow magenta.

Sci-Twi stops short, her glasses sliding down and getting a quick tweak. Inside of the room, the streamer of purple energy on Rarity is now wafting from her back and through the slit between the not-quite-closed double doors and out in the hallway, it wavers for a bit before being drawn into the detector. Rarity's gusto and aura fade away and she sinks back to the floor, slumping on her feet.

Rarity: *out of breath* Actually, Applejack...now that you mention it...I suppose I could use a...tiny break.

(Y/N) immediately moves in to help as he catches the exhausted fashionista as she crumples with a sigh, saved from cracking her head on the tiles due to (Y/N) catching her under the arms.

(Y/N): Whoa, it's okay. I've got you, Rares.

He then picks her up bridal style before walking over to a nearby stool and he gently sets Rarity down to relax.

(Y/N): I think you might be a bit dehydrated. You need some water?

Rarity: Phew, I'd like that. Thank you, love.

Before you could leave though, Sci-Twi enters, closing the detector, and finds six amazed, smiling faces and one guy simply shocked when they notice her.

The Rainbooms: TWILIGHT?

Twilight lets her detector hang from its cord, now silent.

Sci-Twi: Uh, yes?

Applejack, Fluttershy, Rainbow, and Rarity gather around her while (Y/N) stared in complete confusion.

Applejack: Well, I'll be. You shoulda told us you were comin'.

(Y/N): Uh... Girls...?

Sunset Shimmer makes her move closer, relief and elation written all over her face, and grins as she tries to think of what to say. Rarity, however, beats her to it.

Rarity: Darling, those glasses. What are you wearing? It's so... severe.

Sci-Twi: My uniform?

Fluttershy: Your uniform for what?

Sci-Twi: For... Crystal Prep. But why does everyone at this school know who I am?

Rainbow Dash: Did you just say "Crystal Prep"?

Seeing how Sci-Twi was starting to get really uncomfortable considering that the girls don't know that this is the Twilight from their world, (Y/N) takes this opportunity to intervene and speak up.

(Y/N): G-Girls, girls! Let's give her some space, okay? I mean she clearly feels a little bit uncomfortable with you all bombarding her during her arrival.

When Sci-Twi looked up at (Y/N), her eyes immediately popped open as she pushed her way through the girls and locked eyes with him.

Sci-Twi: Wait. I-Is that you, (Y/N)?

This caused the girls to get confused on why Sci-Twi was asking that because they knew that Princess Twilight would probably be able to recognize her boyfriend from just about anywhere.

Rarity: Whatever do you mean, darling? You two are practically inseparable sweethearts.

This causes both (Y/N) and Sci-Twi to get flustered as they both blushed up storms on their faces and immediately tried to deny that claim.

Sci-Twi: S-S-Sweethearts?!

(Y/N): N-No! No, no, no, no! Y-You guys got the wrong idea!

Sunset Shimmer: What are you talking about?

(Y/N): I-It's just... um... She's not the "princess" that I know, okay? She's more of her look-alike.

Sci-Twi: (Look alike? What is he talking about?)

Rainbow Dash: Wait. So you're saying we got all of our hopes up for nothing?

(Y/N) nervously turns to Twilight with an anxious smile.

(Y/N): Uh... could you excuse us for a second, Twilight? I-It's nice to see you by the way...

Sci-Twi slowly nods while looking away just as nervous and flustered as (Y/N).

Sci-Twi: Um... Sure... and... N-Nice to see you as well...

(Y/N) then gathers up all six of his current real girlfriends in the room as they huddled together so Sci-Twi couldn't hear their conversation. The Rainbooms were all looking at (Y/N) with skeptical or annoyed looks.

(Y/N): Okay, I know you guys have a lot of questions for me right now and before you ask... I did know about this world's Twilight and I knew she was coming.

Sunset Shimmer: And you didn't bother to tell us anything about it?

(Y/N): I know, I know! I promised I wouldn't lie again, but this time it was really for both of our good.

Applejack: You better elaborate then because if ya don't...

Applejack raises one of her boots up causing (Y/N)'s eyes to widen and he squeezes his legs tight as he knows what's coming next if he doesn't explain in the next second.

(Y/N): Okay, okay. Geez! Listen, remember when I told you all about the day when I was hanging out with Flash, Sandalwood, and Micro Chips? Not only did we talk about the Friendship Games and meet that King of Crystal Prep guy... but I also happened to meet this world's Twilight at the library in the mall.

Rainbow Dash: And?

(Y/N): Even I assumed it was Princess Twilight in there. I decided to take a closer look and I found her looking through books all alone. I didn't want to make anything awkward with her at first, so I thought I would just leave before I looked like I became a stalker, but... she got a little clumsy and her glasses fell onto the floor...

Applejack: I guess we can all agree on what happened after that.

(Y/N): Well, what was I supposed to do? If she wears glasses then she could've got hurt if no one stepped in to do anything. But that's not the strangest part though. It seems the resemblance between me and the King of Crystal Prep is uncanny and when she thought that I was him, she got very timid and scared around me.

Sunset Shimmer: You definitely don't give off that vibe of being scary though.

(Y/N): No, but Pinkie said that the guy who looked like me acted all edgy and condescending like she was wasting his time.

Pinkie Pie: And you know me too well that I have all of the time in the world to do practically anything, sweetie! Talk to complete strangers, bake cookies with my backup cookie dough that I was store for extra use...

She said as she pulled a bag of said cookie dough out of her hair which gave the Rainbooms baffled looks before she put it back into her hair.

Pinkie Pie: What? I'm always hungry for cookies anyday of the week.

(Y/N): *chuckles* That's...

Rarity: Shush and continue.

(Y/N): *sighs* Okay, so also Applejack's assumption on this guy may be correct too... as Twilight did tell me that she often gets bullied by this guy.

Some of the girls gasped from this as that definitely meant that someone is no good if someone else is labeling them with a reputation for bullying.

Fluttershy: Oh, my. The King of Crystal Prep really does scare me now.

Rainbow Dash: I'm not really that surprised. It's Crystal Prep. What are you expecting out of them at this point?

(Y/N): To come after me, that's what. He's mostly looking forward to meeting me... and I doubt that I'm going to have any kind of nice introductions with this guy.

Rainbow Dash smirked as she placed a hand on (Y/N)'s shoulder.

Rainbow Dash: No worries, babe. If this guy has got some beef with you then they'll have to answer to us first.

The rest of the Rainbooms nodded in agreement to that which made (Y/N) smile.

(Y/N): I'm glad that I can count on you girls to stand with me on whatever comes our way.

They ended their little group huddle before turning back to Sci-Twi who was fiddling with her little device before she sees (Y/N) walk up to her. She stands up straight and they both lock eyes on each other before they both smile awkwardly with blushes before looking away from each other.

(Y/N): So... yeah, um... Hi...

Sci-Twi: Y-Yeah. H-Hi...

They both don't say anything for a quick second before Sci-Twi did something a little bit bold and she decided to (Y/N) a quick embrace that he quickly returned as this lasted for only a split second before parting from him and she readjusts her glasses as well.

Sci-Twi: I... kind of missed you to be honest.

(Y/N): Really?

Sci-Twi: *nods* Mm-hmm. I haven't exactly had the... "happiest" time over at Crystal Prep recently...

(Y/N) crosses both of his arms as he has a quick feeling why.

(Y/N): Let me guess, (R/N)?

She frowns and nods, but (Y/N) places a hand on her shoulder making Sci-Twi look him in the eyes.

(Y/N): Well, don't worry, even if you are having the hardest time because of him, I won't let your time here be any more miserable. In fact, with you here, I feel like we'll both have a great time here.

Sci-Twi stares at (Y/N) surprised from this, but a smile was all that needed to be said that she'll definitely appreciate that. The Rainbooms however, all looked at each other with agreeing smirks that said that those two will become a lot closer than they think.

Spike then chooses this moment to break the instant tension by poking his head out of Sci-Twi's backpack and barking.

Fluttershy & Rarity: Spike!

Fluttershy immediately comes over to pet the dog while Sci-Twi gasps and recoils a step back.

Sci-Twi: You know my dog's name, too?

The others have no immediate response to this. Outside, Principal Celestia was walking with Principal Cinch along the hallways until they got over to the practice room.

Principal Celestia: And our music program has especially taken off.

They stop at the door, Celestia pulling in a little gasp of surprise upon seeing Twilight from behind. Abacus, on the other hand, just cocks one eyebrow.

Principal Celestia: Twilight?

Sci-Twi: This is getting ridiculous!

Principal Cinch: I must apologize for the curiosity of one of my prized students.

Principal Celestia: "Your" student?

(Y/N): "One" of?

Principal Cinch turns her head to look down towards (Y/N) and the moment that she looks at him, she raises an eyebrow with a confused look before adjusting her glasses.

Principal Cinch: And who might you be? Now that I do look at you, you remind me of someone.

Not liking that Principal Cinch was immediately trying to interrogate (Y/N), Principal Celestia immediately crossed over to (Y/N) and gave off the best fake smile that she could to Cinch while placing a hand on (Y/N)'s shoulder.

Principal Celestia: I suppose you could say he's MY prized student. And has quite the spirit to be one I must say considering he is the son of someone we both knew in the past. *chuckles* You remember (M/N), right?

The moment that Cinch heard the word "(M/N)" in that sentence was enough to shock her as she looked down at (Y/N) who gave her a nervous grin as he felt like a smile should be shown towards her at least. However, Cinch's reaction is to narrow her eyes at (Y/N) looking rather peeved.

Principal Cinch: Well... I see that your tastes in both friends AND students haven't changed at all, Celestia. Although, it's not surprising that a (L/N) decided to make their appearance into the Friendship Games, I am shocked that one of my students decided to associate themselves with a (L/N).

She said that in a rather patronizing tone which made (Y/N) frown.

(Y/N): (Aren't you friendly?)

Principal Cinch: I'll be returning Twilight to check in with the rest of the classmates away from *clears throat* "peculiar" people such as him. You best keep your eyes peeled on how much effort Crystal Prep will be putting into the Friendship Games now that I know of your student.

She said as she and Sci-Twi turned to leave and Sci-Twi looked back at (Y/N) with a slightly disappointed expression and (Y/N) had pretty much the same look and as they leave, Cinch said one final thing.

Principal Cinch: Besides, this may prove that I'm much more viable as a better person than (M/N).

(Y/N) scowls from this and Principal Celestia had the same look from Principal Cinch being a tiny bit rude to both (Y/N) and his mother.

(Y/N): Geez, for a principal, she sure has a strange way of showing respect.

Principal Celestia then tried to change the subject as she turned to the Rainbooms in the music room.

Principal Celestia: I didn't know Twilight had a twin sister.

Pinkie Pie: She doesn't! That Twilight is obviously the Twilight from this world since it couldn't possibly be the Twilight from the pony world since the Twilight from the pony world doesn't go to Crystal Prep or wear glasses.

If Celestia's mind had slipped out of gear upon first seeing the visitor, this high-speed and, of course, entirely correct explanation causes it to belch up its entire transmission.

Princess Celestia: Nevermind.

She was getting ready to leave, but (Y/N) quickly got in front of her with a look that said that he wanted some answers.

(Y/N): Um... Celestia? WHAT is going on? What is it with these Crystal Prep snobs hating me? And how did Principal Grinch seem to be familiar with my mother back there?

Principal Celestia raises a finger up to try and protest that, but she could already tell that (Y/N) wasn't going to let her off without any answers as this could be harder if he found out later than now. She sighs before lowering herself down to his level and a certain theme of the said mother starts playing as well.

https://youtu.be/1U5eFvBKvGE

Principal Celestia: You remember how you used to live with (M/N) alone before she got that terrible coma?

(Y/N): Yeah, you said that she pretty much had that job her entire life.

Principal Celestia: Yes, well... That's not entirely true.

(Y/N): What do you mean?

Principal Celestia: You see (Y/N)... before you were born... your mother wasn't an agent... She was the superintendent of Canterlot.

This shocked (Y/N) and the rest of the Rainbooms heard this as well as this meant that (M/N) pretty much had authority over any kind of school in the city.

(Y/N): Superintendent?! ...What?! I didn't see that coming, but that's crazy! Although, what does that have to do with Crystal Prep hating my guts?

Principal Celestia: You see (Y/N), your mother loved this city and so did we as her friends who supported her through almost anything in life. She loved it so much in fact that she would sometimes refuse to choose anywhere else to go, but anywhere in Canterlot.

(Y/N): ...Uh, so what? Was she territorial or something?

Principal Celestia: Of course not! Let me explain.

(Flashback)

The scene then fades in and out to show three certain young girls conversing with each other cheerfully in what looked to be a school that took place decades ago when (M/N), Celestia, and Luna were teenagers.

Principal Celestia: Back when me, Luna, and your mother were high school students, not only were we inseparable... but everyone in our school pretty much loved (M/N) as she was considered to be most likely the most popular kid in the school. There was no one who would show any ill intent towards her...

Certains scenes of the trio could be seen with Young (M/N) being the main focus as she could be seen either waving towards a cheerleading group, flirting with some boys who seemed to like her affections, or even just sharing her school notes with a student who seemed to be having trouble.

Principal Celestia: Well... no one, but one.

The scene then switched to show a teenage girl with fuschia skin and curly hair that looked to be just the same age as Young (M/N) and Young Celestia, but just a little older than Young Luna. This was Young Abacus Cinch and she was over towards a set of lockers staring at Young (M/N) with an extremely envious look.

Principal Celestia: Not only were (M/N) and Cinch pretty much polar opposites in the school... They were huge rivals.

(Y/N): How so?

Principal Celestia: Well, as you can probably tell from Cinch's attitude towards you... she wasn't exactly the best person you would want to hang around.

Unlike Young (M/N)'s scenes where she is seen to be doing nice things for others, Young Cinch would criticize the cheerleading group as if their spirit wasn't good enough, she acted all high and mighty around boys and they often got annoyed with her boasting, and finally in a classroom she wouldn't even bother to help out students who were having trouble thinking that her school notes are only hers to see.

The scene then switches to show Young (M/N) and Young Cinch walking in opposite directions down the hall as they both narrowed their eyes to each other with nasty looks and when they were at the point of crossing each other, a spark of lightning formed in between their faces for a quick second before they pass by each other to go and do their own thing.

Principal Celestia: There were times and times again where Cinch would try and prove that she was better than (M/N)... but to neither me, Luna, or anyone's surprise for that matter, she would just always prove her wrong. What's worse for Cinch is that (M/N) didn't really care at all if people considered her better, she would just say that no one's perfect or has to be perfect to be a good person.

(Y/N): I'd say you and Luna are definitely proof of that.

Principal Celestia chuckles a little bit from the compliment.

We see various scenes where Young (M/N) is apparently neck to neck with Cinch in some situations like running on a track, getting higher A's on tests, or even respect in general.

Principal Celestia: Their biggest competition though... was getting an award once we all graduated. Both of them had the dream of one day being the superintendent of Canterlot and if one of them got the scholarship, then their chances of being eligible for the job in the future would rise tremendously.

Both Young (M/N) and Young Cinch are seen on the stage in graduation gowns of both of their respective colors as both girls smiled politely at the crowd, but Young Cinch took occasional glares towards Young (M/N) wondering why this girl is on the stage with her.

The principal who was a tall and old man with gray skin and long white beard wearing a blue suit with yellow details was holding two diplomas in his hands, one that had a gold medal on it and one that had a red ribbon on it. He walked up in between the girls as they both faced each other with Young (M/N) looking at Young Cinch with a fierce smile while the latter didn't even show (M/N) a smile and just kept a nasty frown on her face.

The people in the crowd, two who were Young Celestia and Young Luna were silent in wondering who was going to get the award. The principal looks at both girls... before he turns to Young (M/N) who grins as she extends both of her hands and takes the award and people in the crowd start cheering. However Young Cinch just stared shocked as she stomped over to the principal wondering why she didn't get the award.

The principal gave Cinch a huge cocked eyebrow before he pulled out a piece of paper and handed it to Cinch and when she looked at it... her face turned speechless and it was definitely not the exciting kind. Young (M/N) seemed concerned as she walked over to take a look and she got the exact same reaction by putting her hand to her mouth in shock.

Principal Celestia: You see... Cinch would do ANYTHING to win and I do mean anything... even if it had to resort to... cheating.

(Y/N): Wait, you mean the reason she lost was because...

Principal Celestia: ...She apparently had plagiarized one of her essays. Without even giving credit too.

(Y/N): Well, I don't see a reason for someone to win any kind of award after someone decided to stoop that low.

Principal Celestia: Your mother didn't always think so. She did generally know that plagiarism is bad and she never did something like that during her high school years... but that didn't stop her from trying to be nice.

Young (M/N) placed a hand on Young Cinch's shoulder as the girl who lost turned her head to the kind victor as she gave her a smile before walking in front of her and offering her a handshake... However, Young Cinch just glared at (M/N) before she takes her wrist with the diploma and puts Young (M/N)'s hand on her chest telling her that she can keep the award and doesn't want any pity as she just turns and stomps away in anger shocking Young (M/N).

Principal Celestia: In the end though... some things never change. (M/N) got the job of superintendent after graduating college, Luna and I decided to teach her at Canterlot High, and Principal Cinch works at Crystal Prep.

(End of Flashback)

(Y/N): Oh... so that's why those Crystal Prep kids dislike me... The history Cinch had with my mother.

Principal Celestia: And also their different point of views. Cinch believes that everyone must value winning and being the best no matter the circumstances. (M/N) believed that anyone can be a winner as long as their kind and value friendship *smiles* and it's what me, Luna, and everyone here at Canterlot High believes too... including you.

She said as she boops him on the nose with a finger which made (Y/N) nervously chuckle with a goofy smile. However, there was still one question that needed to be answered.

(Y/N): But there's one thing that I don't get... if my mom loved her job so much as a superintendent... Why did she transfer her job to becoming a government agent to look over Canterlot instead?

Principal Celestia smiles from this as she stands up and puts both her hands on her hips.

Principal Celestia: Isn't it obvious? It was because of YOU, (Y/N).

(Y/N): *gasps* Me?! Why me?!

Principal Celestia: Your mother loved you so much that once she had you... she cared more about taking care of you than her job. And if she can become a government agent that looks after Canterlot... she would rarely be busy as she'll just walk around town and go home to you anytime of the day to see you.

(Y/N) was so shocked to hear that (M/N) really went out of her way of abandoning her dream job and getting a new one for the sake of him... that it nearly got tears welling up in his eyes as he wished he could've heard about this from his mother herself... but with her current state in a coma he couldn't even speak to her.

Principal Celestia notices (Y/N)'s sad expression as she gives (Y/N) a sympathetic look before putting an arm around (Y/N) which made him look up to Principal Celestia who just gave him a heartfelt smile.

Principal Celestia: She'll make it. I know she will. And I'm sure that either way, she would be proud to hear that you're going up against her old rival in the Friendship Games this year. Why don't you compete for her sake?

(Y/N) looks down to the ground pondering that thought for a moment before he sniffs and wipes his tears away before he looks back up at Principal Celestia with a competitive look.

(Y/N): Alright... I'm going to win the Friendship Games... for my mother's sake!

Principal Celestia: *smiles* I'm happy to hear that, (Y/N).

(End Music Here)

As Principal Celestia walks away to continue doing her own duty, (Y/N) turns back to his girlfriends to see that they all had sad or sympathetic expressions on their faces for (Y/N) as they heard all of Principal Celestia's story as well. (Y/N) just smiles at them before he walks over and shares a small group hug with all of his girlfriends as they'll love him just as much as his mother loved him.

Out on the front lawn, the rest of the Crystal Prep team is gathered at the statue, and Abacus and Twilight walk toward them from the front entrance.

Sci-Twi: I'm sorry, Principal Cinch. I was just following these strange readings. Actually, they led me to those girls, (Y/N), and—

Principal Cinch: Twilight, what you do in your free time is of little interest to me, but while you're here, I... all of Crystal Prep, in fact, require your complete focus.

She lifts Twilight's chin with a finger to lock eyes for a moment, then walks off toward the statue.

Sci-Twi: But why does everyone at this school seem to know me?

Principal Cinch stops and turns back to her.

Principal Cinch: Perhaps they're trying to confuse you. Perhaps they're trying to lure you away.

Sci-Twi: It didn't feel like anyone was trying to lure me. Especially not, (Y/N). I think he was pretty nice.

Principal Cinch: And you don't see how that serves as a ploy?

Sci-Twi: I don't think so... He seemed pretty genuine and happy to see me.

Principal Cinch: Perhaps...but whether it's genuine or not is irrelevant. They are still our adversaries and it's in your best interest not to get close with them. Specifically that one (L/N) you keep referring to.

Sci-Twi: Why? What's wrong with him?

In response to her question, Cinch was noticeably balling one of her hands into a fist as a viewable tremble could be made out, clearly indicating a sense of anger. However, realizing what she's doing, Cinch makes her hand stop and a low breath escapes her.

Principal Cinch: Do keep your privacy invading questions to yourself, Twilight. Your application to Everton can still be revoked if you're not aware of your choice of words.

Twilight takes the cue and moves in the indicated direction, albeit reluctantly.

Principal Cinch: I don't know what they're playing at, but I guarantee, it isn't to help us win.

She guides Twilight past the statue where all of the other candidates of the Shadowbolt team were. Sour Sweet spots her in the corner of her eye and watches her sulk to the bus as Principal Cinch approaches the group.

Sour Sweet: *sweetly* Hey, you found her! *sourly* Unfortunately...

Sugarcoat: Our odds of success would be greater if she wasn't on the team.

Sunny Flare: She will most likely rob us of our victory, Principal Cinch. Why is she one of the representatives?

Principal Cinch: She is one of Crystal Prep's top students, Sunny. Not utilizing her talents could serve as a liability.

Sour Sweet: *sweetly* Oh, you mean her clumsiness, her constant wandering, and her lack of school spirit? *sourly* All of them sound verrry useful.

Principal Cinch: I am well aware of the negative connotations she brings with her, Sour Sweet, but rest assured, this is a necessary measure to guarantee our victory.

Lemon Zest: If you say so, Principal Cinch.

She agrees as Principal Cinch walks away, leaving the rest of the group to gossip about Sci-Twi.

Indigo Zap: I'm not on board with this, though. Twilight sucks, like seriously sucks.

Sugarcoat: Academically, I disagree, but for anything else, I don't.

Lemon Zest: She's such a lousy team player. You guys remember that time Principal Cinch had us golf? It took her five strokes just to move the ball one inch. ONE inch!

Sugarcoat: Okay, I take back what I said. She's not good for anything. Even something like golf requires a certain level of math and coordination.

(R/N): (We are so screwed. No, no, don't start doubting yourself now, (R/N). I'm sure we can still find a way to win, even with this dead weight holding us back, somehow.)

Sunny Flare: (R/N)?

(R/N): (Oh, who am I kidding?! How? How in any way did she think Twilight would be good for this?! I'm gonna lose everything because of her! My reputation will be tarnished, my peers might even hate me and...I'll lose them. No, NO! This cannot happen, this cannot happen...)

Sunny Flare: Dearie?

(R/N): I WILL NOT LET IT HAPPEN!

His yell catches the Shadowbolts off guard as he immediately looks at them, embarrassed.

(R/N): Uh...did I say that out loud?

Lemon Zest: Y-Yeah. You uh...you good, dude?

(R/N): O-Of course, Lem! I'm the King of Crystal Prep, I-I'm more than good!

Indigo Zap: (There's that stuttering again.)

Sunny Flare: (R/N), are you okay?

(R/N): Y-Yeah, I-I'm fine, I'm fine. Don't worry about me. I just need to go have a quick talk with Twilight.

He grimaced a little through his fabricated smile as he walked away from the group to go track her down.

Sunny Flare: *sigh* I sincerely hope that I'm not the only one who knows something is wrong with him.

Sugarcoat: It was very obvious from the get go, Sunny. He does seem a bit uneasy.

Lemon Zest: He did mention Cinch, but he didn't say why.

Sunny Flare: I don't know what's going on with him, but it does make me worry and I feel a bit hurt that he won't tell us.

Sour Sweet: *sweetly* Even after he vowed he would never do that? *sourly* Some boyfriend he is.

Indigo Zap: Don't be like that, Sour. He's probably just a little overwhelmed or maybe he didn't get a lot of sleep last night.

Lemon Zest: He definitely got a lot of sleep, dude. He had a very comfortable bed last night; we can all vouch for that.

Sunny Flare: Uhh...

She blushes along with the other three Shadowbolts.

Sunny Flare: R-Right, l-let's not dwell on that now, though.

She places a hand on her heart softly and sighs.

Sunny Flare: ((R/N), I don't know what you're going through, but I do hope you remember that we're here for you. We love you, I love you, and nothing would ever change that. Not even if we lose. You mean more to me than any win Crystal Prep could ever achieve, but... I want to win for you, love.)

Back in the main foyer, (Y/N) and the rest of the Rainbooms are spotted approaching it through one of the school's corridors.

Rarity: I can't believe our world's Twilight goes to Crystal Prep!

Rainbow Dash: You're saying that Twilight's gonna play "against" us? She'd never do that!

Fluttershy: OUR Twilight wouldn't.

Sunset Shimmer: *annoyed* Our Twilight is a princess in Equestria and an expert in friendship magic! And if she was here, we'd have already figured out why magic is randomly popping up during pep rallies and costume changes!

The outburst stops as suddenly as it began, and she takes in the deeply concerned expressions on the six faces before her. A deep breath, and she slumps a bit on her feet.

Sunset Shimmer: Sorry. I'm just frustrated that I haven't heard back from her.

(Y/N): Well, I mean considering she's a princess in that world and I'm a prince in that world too, I wouldn't be surprised if they had their own matters to worry about. But I'm sure once they notice, helping us will be the Equestria Twilight's top priority.

Rarity: We certainly can't expect her to drop everything and pop through the portal whenever. Especially if it's to deal with something as minor as a few random pony-ups.

Sunset Shimmer: But they aren't minor! Magic came into this world when I stole Twilight and (Y/N)'s crowns. It's taken a lot for me to earn everyone's trust, but if we have to forfeit the games because I can't think of a way to keep it under control, then... I may not be able to retain that for much longer.

Fluttershy: Oh, Sunset, I'm sure you'll be able to figure things out.

Applejack: You're the one who helped us understand what was goin' on with the sirens. Remember?

Sunset Shimmer: I guess. But Twilight was the one who really figured out what we needed to defeat them.

(Y/N) then crosses over to her as he wraps an arm around Sunset's shoulders.

(Y/N): Note that you said "figure out". It wasn't just the seven of us who defeated the Dazzlings back then. We ultimately had you by our side and we're more than proud that you're still sticking with us.

Reminded of the role she played in that face-off, Sunset smiles and sighs quietly.

Sunset Shimmer: All right.

Words, and in Pinkie's case, squeals of encouragement came all around.

Rainbow Dash: Come on, guys! Let's see if we can find any info about the events and come up with a strategy.

(Y/N): Chances are low that you're going to find anything. I mean I bet they're keeping them hidden to keep everything fair for everybody... hopefully.

He said this with a nervous look remembering what Principal Celestia told him about Principal Cinch.

Rainbow Dash: Still, any kind of info could be useful for us.

(Y/N): I guess... but don't go try and look like you're snooping around! I don't want to get accused of cheating twice... or counting magic that's in us... thrice...

Rainbow Dash: I know, babe. Don't worry, we're just going to be walking around our own school. No big deal.

(Y/N): Alright then.

The former unicorn's newfound resolve begins to evaporate as she turns away from the lobby, about to bite a nervous thumbnail which (Y/N) notices and Rainbow doubles back to them.

Rainbow Dash: You guys coming?

Sunset Shimmer: I'll... catch up with you guys in a bit.

The blue teen gives her a thumbs-up and hurries away as Sunset begins to think and (Y/N) could tell exactly what she was planning.

(Y/N): Considering all of this talk about Equestria and portals, I take it that you're going to check and see if Princess Twilight is home?

Sunset Shimmer: *sighs* Do I really have any other choice? The Friendship Games start soon and the last thing that we all want is for them to get out of control because of the magic inside of you.

(Y/N): Well... I guess it wouldn't hurt to visit... Considering how much went by in Equestria during your time here, a simple question with a logical explanation could be useful to us.

Sunset Shimmer: Come on, let's make it quick.

Sunset then goes back the way from where they formerly came from with (Y/N) following right behind so that they can investigate further on the source of the random Pony-Ups that they've been having.

Back outside where the Crystal Prep buses were, it appears that the Crystal Prep students were in line to get checked in on their field trip for the Friendship Games. (R/N) could be seen talking to Sci-Twi amongst them and it didn't look like they were having the liveliest conversation at all as it was still (R/N) berating and bullying Sci-Twi.

(R/N): Do you have ANY idea how difficult it is to pull the weight of Crystal Prep's winning streak when you're constantly disrupting our coordination?! The rest of the team is already starting to have doubts now that you're a part of it!

Sci-Twi: I-I'm sorry, (R/N)! I-I'm not trying to cause trouble, I promise!

(R/N): Yeah, well, even when you're not, you still manage to do so! My girls love me for the fact that I've been able to keep CPA's winning streak alive and I'm not about to lose all of that just because you're too incompetent to pull your weight, so here's what's going to happen. Either you get a grip on what we're here for, or I will have Cinch drop your grades so low that not even a community college would accept you!

The thought of not being able to go to college overwhelmed the poor, timid girl to the point where she started crying.

Sci-Twi: P-Please don't do that, (R/N)! I-I swear I'll focus on the Friendship Games! I-I promise!

(R/N): Good, because if I lose my harem due to you costing us a win, having your application denied is gonna be the least of your problems. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go find Suri and Uppercrust.

Sci-Twi: What do you want with them?

(R/N): Well, somebody needs to keep an eye on you to make sure you hold up to your promise.

Sci-Twi: Wh-What? But you didn't give me a chance!

(R/N): Don't care, you obviously need supervision.

Sci-Twi: J-Just give me a chance, (R/N)! Give me one more chance to prove it, okay?

(R/N): *sigh* You drive a hard bargain, but fine. One more chance, Twilight, but if you screw it up, I will have the whole student body watching your every move, understand?

Sci-Twi: Y-Yes!

(R/N): Good, now I need to go discuss something with the rest of the team. Don't mess us up again, Twilight.

With that, he turns around and walks away as Sci-Twi lets out a sigh. She watches him step onto one of the buses and shakes her head solemnly.

Sci-Twi: (Why does he have to be so mean?)

She then notices her spectrometer picking up a reading and immediately begins to scope it out, hence, disregarding everything she promised (R/N) she wouldn't do.

Meanwhile, (Y/N) and Sunset approached the school statue as Sunset took a step closer to it. Sci Twi stood on the other side of the portal, still completely focused on what her device was picking up on. Sunset goes to press a hand on the portal, but then (Y/N) stops her.

(Y/N): Hold on, do you really think Twilight would know what to do here, Sunset?

Sunset Shimmer: Maybe not a full explanation, but I'm sure she could give us some clues or pointers.

(Y/N): I don't know, she seemed very lost during the Battle of the Bands and even you knew that. Maybe the reason why she's not replying is because she simply doesn't have a clear answer or is looking to find one.

Sunset Shimmer: Well, if she's looking to find one, then she must have a rough idea on what we could do about it. If we could just get a pinpoint on what triggers the magic to release...

She looked at the portal once more and placed her hand on it. However, she was quickly met with an array of magical particles which matched the same color of her hair emanating from her hand. She tried to pull it off, but her hand wouldn't budge and both of them ended up stuck on the portal frame.

Sunset Shimmer: Hey! Let...go!

(Y/N): Sunset?!

Immediately, (Y/N) rushed to her and grabbed her from behind. He tried to pull her hands off, but still had trouble trying to get her off. On the other side, Sci-Twi was struggling to maintain control of her spectrometer since it automatically opened. She eventually managed to close it, but not until after all the magic emitted from Sunset had been stolen from her. It knocks the three of them backward as Sunset landed on top of (Y/N).

(Y/N): Ow...you alright, Sunny?

Sunset Shimmer: Yeah, how 'bout you?

(Y/N): Perfectly fine.

Sunset looks back at the portal and discovers that Sci-Twi was there with her amulet emanating electrical sparks. Immediately, she knew that she had something to do with what just occurred.

Sunset Shimmer: What did you do?!

Panicking, Sci-Twi stood back up, nervous at what her device just did, but before she could mouth an answer, Dean Cadance spoke up behind her.

Dean Cadance: Twilight, you have to check in with the others.

Sci-Twi sprints off with her device as you and Sunset watch her leave. Still a bit baffled, Sunset presses her hand on the portal again...only to find that it was solid. Now, panicking, she desperately touches the surface with both hands.

Sunset Shimmer: Where's the portal? *grunts* WHERE'S THE PORTAL?!

(Y/N): Sunset, Sunset, calm down!

Sunset Shimmer: CALM DOWN?! THE PORTAL IS GONE!

(Y/N): I-It's gonna be fine, okay? If we managed to lose it, then there must be a way to get it back somehow. Just calm down, alright?

Sunset Shimmer: No! How are we gonna get an answer from her?! The book might not even work anymore either! We may have just lost all contact with Princess Twilight! We're never gonna—

She's quickly cut off by (Y/N) placing a hand over her mouth. He sighs as he gently puts his hand down and takes her hand.

(Y/N): Listen, don't panic just yet, okay? We'll find a way to get it back, it's not the end of the world.

Sunset Shimmer: But how are we going to figure out what to do? If these pony-ups start occurring, we'll have to forfeit!

At this moment, Sunset starts to tear up and bangs her head against the frame where the portal was.

Sunset Shimmer: I don't want it to come to that. Not after I promised Vice Principal Luna that I could keep it under control.

(Y/N): Well, I'm sure she'd understand, Sunset. I mean, it'd be too much pressure to put that all on—

Sunset Shimmer: It's not just that, (Y/N). For the first time in my life, I feel accepted and a part of a group that likes me for who I am. You remember that I told you about the way my parents treated me? I just...I don't want to lose what I have with the others, what I have with...you.

She lifts her head up and walks back to you slowly.

Sunset Shimmer: I already messed things up once with this school. To mess up all over again would...I-I can't bear the thought of what could happen to me.

(Y/N) was taken away by all this. He was confused at first, but then he reminded himself of the fact that this is the same girl that influenced his breakup with his harem to begin with, and he could understand why she felt this way.

Sunset Shimmer: I don't want to lose you, (Y/N) and I've been trying really hard to make sure I don't mess up, but...how can I keep this under control if I don't have a clear answer?

(Y/N): Sunset, I think you should know that I'm not going to just up and ditch you just because you make a mistake.

Sunset Shimmer: You left us for the Dazzlings.

(Y/N): *rolls eyes* ...I deserve that, but that's different. Look, just because you can't find a simple solution to a problem doesn't mean it's automatically going to make us ridicule you.

Sunset Shimmer: And what if it does? What if the magic gets so out of control to the point where it could pose a threat to this entire world? I'm already responsible for enough damage dealt to the school and if it went global... I couldn't live with myself. Everyone would be calling me a "she-demon" again or maybe something much worse. I don't want my life to be the way it was before the Battle of the Bands! To have that kind of hatred on me again would kill me!

(Y/N) has never seen Sunset so anxious before, but he gets a serious look before he hugs her tightly so that she could take a moment to relax in his arms.

(Y/N): Calm down!! ...Just calm down. Look, we stopped Equestrian magic twice before. I don't think that even at those extreme standards that it would make it impossible for us to stop it from going out of control again. Remember the song that you sang to me the other day? You said it yourself, "Your Past Is Not Today." So even if your or heck even any of our mistakes cause a global threat outside of the city, we just do what we do best... stop it together.

Hearing that surprised Sunset as she closed her eyes and took a couple of deep breaths before she wrapped her arms around (Y/N).

Sunset Shimmer: You're right... I'm sorry. I guess I'm still kind of on edge from everyone's resentment towards me. It might've even been worse than when my parents decided to leave me to rot. I just want to know, (Y/N). If...if I did mess up again, if everyone started glaring daggers at me again, or if even the Rainbooms wanted nothing to do with me again...would you still love me?

(Y/N) breaks the hug from Sunset with a smirk on his face before he pulls her in for a passionate kiss on the lips which surprised Sunset, but she immediately melts into it. It lasted for nearly a minute before they break apart with (Y/N) still having a smirk on his face.

(Y/N): Is that enough to answer your question?

Sunset Shimmer: Heh. Yeah, it does. I just... wanted to be sure. I mean, my parents told me they loved me and yet they still left me behind. I know you wouldn't do that, but...I still couldn't shake that fear of being abandoned again.

(Y/N): Don't worry, I Pinkie Promised to never leave you or the other girls and I already know that breaking them... I won't hear the end of it from Pinkie Pie, but there's nothing you're going to regret with being my girlfriend, part of the Rainbooms, and part of the harem.

Sunset Shimmer: Thanks, (Y/N). I love you.

(Y/N): I love you too.

He then turned his gaze to the statue again with a suspicious glance as he walked up to it and wanted to test something out. He reaches his hand for the mirror wanting to see if the portal was actually closed just like Sunset showed a minute ago. When he pressed his hand against the glass... his hand went right through the mirror which made both him and Sunset gasp.

(Y/N): Wait... What the?!

Sunset Shimmer: Y-You can still access it?!

(Y/N): Apparently, I can. Seems like she didn't take away the portal...she took away the magic that gave you access to it. Makes sense considering how the aura it generated seemed to match your hair color.

Sunset Shimmer: Right, but then...maybe you can go back there and get the answer from her!

(Y/N): I'd agree... but I don't really know my way around Equestria compared to you and Princess Twilight, Sunset. Besides, if that Twilight really did take your magic, then she must've taken Rarity's too when we were in the practice room earlier.

Sunset blinks a couple times and then just deadpans at him.

Sunset Shimmer: You... just don't want to go, do you?

(Y/N): Well, we already have more than enough to deal with right now and I don't think it would be wise for us to make a scene while CPA is on our campus. If any of them catch us disappearing through a statue, let alone that Grinch of a principal, it may cause problems. You even said we want to keep magic away from the games, so it's probably not a smart move.

Sunset raises a finger to try and retort to that, but the more that explanation rolled through her mind, (Y/N) had a point.

Sunset Shimmer:*sighs* So what now?

(Y/N) shakes his head and shrugs his shoulders.

(Y/N): The best course of action right now is to tell our friends what we just discovered since they pretty much have most of the knowledge about the magic that's still in the five of us. I also doubt that this world's Twilight is even aware of what she's doing.

Meanwhile on one of the Crystal Prep buses, Sci-Twi sits down in one of the seats and takes a moment to catch her breath.

(R/N): So you decided to break the promise already, huh? Could barely even last five minutes.

His voice caught her off guard as she turned to find him glaring her down one of his cheeks resting on his palm.

Sci-Twi: Wh-What are you talking about?

(R/N): Did I or did I not tell you to NOT wander around aimlessly and what do you go and do?! Walk right up to their statue and do who knows what! For God's sake, Twilight, what does it take to actually get you to listen to anyone?!

Sci-Twi: Y-You were watching?

(R/N): I was on the bus right behind you! I literally saw you do something to that statue! I don't know what, but I don't really care!

Sci-Twi: I-It's not my fault, my spectrometer started glowing and I–

(R/N): Your spectrometer?! You're concerned about your spectrometer?! We are here to win a competition! That is the ONLY reason why we're here, not, fiddle with rival school property with a *mocking* spectrometer! I swear if I don't win even a single event with you around, I'm gonna destroy that thing!

Sci-Twi: B-But I worked so hard on it!

(R/N): And WE worked so hard to train for this competition and we could've had literally ANYONE else in this school, but nooo! Instead, we had to get YOU! The one student that only contributes problems for all of us! You may have an accelerated academic record, but you are without a doubt the most useless student that this school has to offer! It's a miracle Cinch didn't expel you yet!

Sci-Twi: It...it is?

(R/N): Not for us, stupid; for YOU! For us, you're an accident waiting to happen!!!

If that didn't break Sci-Twi... then there couldn't possibly be anything else that could...

Tears slowly welled up in her eyes and she sniffled a little too trying to wipe them away with her hands while taking off her glasses as (R/N) had definitely hurt her feelings now. (R/N) just looked away from her, still annoyed at the fact that she broke what she promised him.

Though, after a couple of minutes, he looked back at her and saw that she was still crying. His expression softens as he hesitantly places his arm on her shoulder, forcing Sci-Twi to look at him. Her eyes were puffy and red and she took a moment to wipe her glasses.

(R/N): *sigh* Look, I'm sorry, alright? I probably went too far with that.

Sci-Twi: I-I don't understand, (R/N). *sniffs* W-Why are you so mean to me?

(R/N): Because no matter what I do, you somehow always manage to screw it up and make it worse. We have a goal to achieve here and it's to beat Canterlot High. Whether or not you choose to care about the Friendship Games is not something I'm concerned about. What I am concerned about, is the fact that this little thing of yours is going to interfere with our chances of winning it.

Sci-Twi: But why is winning so important, (R/N)? Why is winning the only thing our school cares about?

(R/N): I... *sighs* I can't answer why the school does, but I know why I do. Truthfully, I could care less about winning, but I know it means the world to my harem and I would do anything to make them happy. If I cost them a loss, or even grant a risk of them losing...I'm fairly certain they'd break it off with me... and it's not just them either... I'm supposed to be the King here. The guy who these students look up to and lead in the right direction. If we lose, they may think that I steered them wrong and I'd lose it all. That is why I need to keep the winning streak going. Not because I care about it, but because they care about it. Although, neither of those are the main reasons why I do this.

Sci-Twi: Then... why do you care this much about winning?

(R/N): It's... something my dad wanted out of me. He kind of disowned me in my adolescence. He wanted me to be an overachiever, you know, that kind of kid that utilizes every possible opportunity to succeed. Nothing I ever did was enough for him though, so he dumped me to this school. Cinch and him are friends, so if it weren't for the fact that she was close with him, I'd be out on the streets, homeless and uneducated. I figured if I could at least try to meet his standards of what he wants out of a kid, he might actually warm up to me. I'm the main reason why CPA has this incredibly long winning streak and I thought once he heard about that, he'd accept me as his son.

Hearing all of this shocked Sci-Twi as this was definitely a side of (R/N) she never saw before during her time at CPA and it makes her wonder if all Crystal Prep students have it just as bad as him. However, once (R/N) notices Sci-Twi giving him a slight sympathetic look, he turns away and goes back to his normal serious demeanor.

(R/N): But it's not like it matters, anyway. Look, can you at least try to pretend that you care about winning? It'll get a lot of people, most notably me, off your back. Save yourself the despair, Twilight.

She stays silent for a moment before she looks away and slowly nods timidly.

Sci-Twi: Okay. I'll try.

(R/N): And you better not tell what I told you to anyone, alright? I've still got my eye on you. Don't think that just because I opened up about this means we're close. It's gonna take a lot more than that.

He then gets up from his seat and walks away from Sci-Twi who continued to stare off at (R/N) before he went over to sit beside Sunny Flare.

Sunny Flare: You never told me that.

(R/N): Told you what?

Sunny Flare: That your father put you up to this.

(R/N): Oh... you heard that?

Sunny Flare: I heard all of it, dearie.

(R/N): *sighs* Guess you're mad at me, huh?

Sunny Flare: Mad? How could I be mad? I just heard from you that you win for us, not because it makes you look good. I'd call myself insane if I were mad at you for that, but I have been genuinely concerned about you, and now I understand why. What I don't understand though is why you never told us about any of that. It's fine that you didn't tell all of us, but I would've liked to at least be the first to know rather than...her.

She softly glares at Twilight before sighing as she looks back at (R/N).

Sunny Flare: You did promise that you wouldn't keep anything from us, dearie.

(R/N): *sigh* I know, I know, but...how could I tell you? How could I tell you that I was just some lowlife that got thrown into this school? You would hate me, along with everyone else in this school and the fact that it's all for my father's affection just makes me sound more pathetic.

Sunny Flare: (R/N), if your father is using his love as a means to force you to work this hard, it isn't worth your time. There are people out there that would love you no matter what.

She gently grasps one of (R/N)'s hands.

Sunny Flare: I will always be here for you, (R/N). I love you in more ways than I can express and all I really care about is making you happy. Lemon, Sugarcoat, Sour, and Indigo care a great deal about you too. Please don't hide things from us. If you have any problems, we want to be the first to hear about it. You don't have to tell us everything, but can you at least promise that you'll let us know when you feel down?

(R/N): Of course, Sunny. I promise I'll come to you first.

Sunny Flare: Thank you, (R/N).

She smiles at him and gives him a peck on the cheek.

Sunny Flare: Love you.

(R/N): Love you too.

Later on that afternoon, a welcoming party was being held for the students from Crystal Prep Academy. A "Welcome Crystal Prep" banner strung up amid balloons and streamers was hanging above the stage in the gym. It is flanked by two vertical banners, Canterlot High to the left, Crystal Prep to the right. Groups of students from the two schools are scattered about the floor, staying to their respective sides and giving each other funny looks. Tables loaded with refreshments stand near the stage, but no one is paying them any mind.

Flash Sentry, Sweetie Drops (Bon Bon), and Lyra Heartstrings put on a trio of tentatively welcoming smiles towards Sour Sweet and Sugarcoat across from them. Sour Sweet grins over the cup she holds, then twists her mouth into a feral scowl while crushing it. The remains are flung down and mashed even flatter under her shoe, bringing hostile glares to the three Wondercolts' faces.

The Rainbooms walk along or skip, in Pinkie's case having changed into more formal party attire or top/skirt ensembles that prominently feature each girl's signature mark. (Y/N) just wore a (F/C) collared shirt with his Cutie Mark symbol on the top left of his upper chest and (M/C) jeans.

Sunset Shimmer and (Y/N) were just explaining to the rest of them about what they encountered earlier outside.

Applejack: What do ya mean the portal's gone?

Sunset Shimmer: I mean it's gone. It's closed. It's not there anymore!

(Y/N): Well, not completely gone. Apparently, Sunset's magic is gone which disabled her link to the portal and because I still got mine, I was able to phase my hand right through the mirror.

All seven of them then proceed to walk inside of the gym.

Rainbow Dash: How'd that happen?

Sunset Shimmer: I don't know. But it has something to do with that Twilight.

Sci Twi is then seen completely absorbed in her detector's readings as she walks. So much so, in fact, that she fails to notice a bunch of balloons tied to a brick until she has walked into them. The thump of inflated rubber against skull knocks her glasses askew and pushing them into place, she starts to back up.

Applejack: What in tarnation is she up to?

She asked as she accidentally bumped into Indigo Zap, causing her to spill her drink. She growls and glares daggers at Sci-Twi, and the boy, Royal Pin with whom she was talking adds his two cents with a scowl as Sci-Twi backs away sheepishly. Behind them, Vinyl Scratch stands at her turntables and listens to a track playing in her headphones.

Sunset Shimmer: Leave this to me.

She goes to confront Sci-Twi, but then (Y/N) grabs her wrist.

(Y/N): Wait, Sunset, I don't think that's a good idea.

Sunset Shimmer: Why not?

(Y/N): We don't know how she did that and from the looks of her, I don't think even she knows what she did back there. We're better off not being hostile towards her, especially since most of her peers already seem to do that from what she told me.

Sunset Shimmer: Still, I can't afford to have anyone else's magic stolen from them, not while I'm still trying to figure out what triggers it. There might be a chance I can get it back from her and if she's responsible for what happened to Rarity, then maybe we can restore hers as well. She has to know that she's doing something, even if she doesn't fully understand it. You already saw what happens when we lose our magic, it could be dangerous for us as well as her. We need it back and I'm going to get her to fork it over, one way or another.

With that, she rips her arm away from (Y/N) and stares Sci-Twi down while walking towards her. (Y/N) sighs and facepalms as the Rainbooms watch her walk away.

Fluttershy: Is... she alright, (Y/N)?

(Y/N): I... I can't really tell. She seems to still have some kind of emotional turmoil from the Battle of the Bands and from the Fall Formal. You guys remember how Twilight was panicking when she couldn't figure out what to do? I think Sunset's having that same kind of complex.

Rarity: Oh, dear. I should've known that letting Vice Principal Luna give her that responsibility would put her under so much pressure.

Pinkie Pie: What do we do?

(Y/N): I'm not really sure yet, but we shouldn't let her confront Twilight alone. It could get really nasty. Come on.

(Y/N) leads the group to follow Sunset after she reaches earshot for Sci-Twi. The moment she speaks up, Sci-Twi quickly turns around in fear as she sees Sunset staring her down.

Sunset Shimmer: Twilight, what have you been up to?

She probes as (Y/N) and the rest of the Rainbooms approach from behind her. Sci-Twi backs up a little, intimidated now that there's more people reciprocating her demeanor.

Sci-Twi: M-Me?! O-Oh, I was just uh—

Indigo Zap: Who wants to know?!

Rainbow Dash: Uh, WE do?

Applejack: Alright, everyone. Let's not get too competitive before the games even start.

Sugarcoat: The games aren't really competitive since we've never lost.

Fluttershy: That's not a very nice thing to say.

Sunny Flare: Sorry, dearie, but these games aren't about being nice.

Rarity: Well, it might use a little tact.

After this was said, (Y/N) tries to get in between this entire argument and calm everyone down.

(Y/N): Okay, Okay! All of you break it up! I know the Games may be serious to some of you, but this argument here is just pointless!

All of the Shadowbolt girls stop and turn their attention to (Y/N). However, the second they got a good look at him, they all froze, kind of shocked and a bit hurt.

Lemon Zest: Wh-What are you doing with them?

Sour Sweet: *sweetly* Did you suddenly decide to switch sides? *sourly* Guess that really shows how much you love us!

Sunset Shimmer: Love you?! (Y/N), what are they talking about?

(Y/N): I don't know! I've never met these girls before!

Sugarcoat: Oh, so now you're going to pretend that you don't know us? After we formed a harem with you?

The Rainbooms: YOU WHAT?!

(Y/N): Okay, okay, just stop! I don't know who you girls are and the fact that you seem to know who I am is just weird! These girls are my harem and again, I don't know any of you, so stop making things up!

???: You're not in a position to demand anything you nasty, little, pincushion!

https://youtu.be/7mEoFzBoDzQ

That voice definitely sounded familiar to (Y/N) as he turned around and his eyes widened for what he saw next. The Shadowbolt girls who were confronting The Rainbooms immediately make space to let none other than (R/N) (R/L/N) through as he immediately pointed at (Y/N).

(R/N): Yeah, that's right! I'm talking to you!

Before (Y/N) could even say anything back, Rainbow Dash immediately tried to intervene by stepping in front of (Y/N) while glaring at (R/N).

Rainbow Dash: Oh, looks like we got a little (Y/N) poser here. Why are you going around wearing my boyfriend's face?

This question just immediately goes unanswered as (R/N) grabs her face and shoves Rainbow Dash back from him.

(R/N): I didn't mean you, Skittles...

Rainbow Dash then slips and falls behind (Y/N) as he looks down at Rainbow Dash in shock before glaring daggers back at (R/N) who points back at (Y/N) once more.

(R/N): I meant YOU! Hero of Canterlot High!

Fluttershy and the rest of the Rainbooms were staring at (R/N) with the exact same shock that the Shadowbolt girls had earlier.

Fluttershy: H-He looks just like (Y/N)...

Sunset Shimmer: That explains a lot...

Lemon Zest: Th-There's TWO of them?!

Sugarcoat: I am...honestly at a loss for words right now.

(Y/N): Hey, pal! I don't know what your problem is, but haven't you heard that girls hate guys who rush them?!

(R/N): Rush them? Is that your way of putting it? She was simply in my way and I moved her out of it. Nothing you should work up a sweat over.

(Y/N): Don't change the subject and don't treat my girls like crap!

(R/N): And just what are you gonna do about it? Fight me? Make a bigger scene than you already have? *sarcastically* Quite a good look for a proclaimed "Hero".

(Y/N) growls a little from the sarcastic comment, but this wasn't the end of (R/N) ridiculing (Y/N) and his harem as the guy points a finger to his chest.

(R/N): And you should teach your cats their place. I'm the King of Crystal Prep and the Friendship Games isn't all about teamwork and your pathetic school getting along with ours. You see, to order to be the best of the best, you must do whatever it takes to get your way to win... Without Canterlot High even having a single win... Well, you might as well just kiss the ground and go home while you still can.

(Y/N): "Kiss the ground and go home"? Do you hear yourself right now? You honestly think your inflated ego is gonna get us to drop that quickly? Why don't you prove how much of a "King" you are instead of talking down towards us?

All this does is just make (R/N) laugh.

(R/N): You clearly don't understand. The battle has already been over before it has even begun. Because I don't lose to anyone! Not even you! I'M the ultimate student wherever I go!

(Y/N): (Right, and I'm the student that saved my school and the world from magic multiple times.) *sigh* Uh-huh, and is that something your parents told you or is it something you believe they told you?

(Y/N) said this with a smug grin on his face and this comment definitely struck a nerve on (R/N) and considering that he told Sunny Flare about his father, even she glared daggers at (Y/N).

(R/N): *sarcastically* Oh, aren't you funny, Hero. Let's get one thing straight.

He jabs a finger into (Y/N)'s chest.

(R/N): I AM going to win these games one way or another and I could care less about what happens to you or that mediocre group of girls you call a harem in the process. You better keep them AND yourself in check or else I'm gonna be your worst nightmare!

He then smirks deviously.

(R/N): And considering what I heard from your pawns, I take it this isn't the first time you've even encountered something that involves them thinking you got yourself into someone else's harem.

(Y/N)'s eyes widened from this and that reaction was all that (R/N) needed to know that what he just said was true.

(Y/N): H-Huh?!

(R/N): *smirks* Guess I overestimated you a little. There isn't a single quality you possess that makes you qualify for a "Hero" and the fact that the students at this tax-funded rundown of a school think you do, shows that they really don't have any standards.

(R/N) then wraps an arm around both Indigo Zap and Lemon Zest before he turns away with them along with the rest of his harem as he laughs mischievously.

(R/N): See you out on the field, Hero! You and your school's gonna need it.

(End Music Here)

(Y/N) continued to stare off at this guy who insulted him and the other Rainbooms straight to his face and unlike the girls who had angry looks on their faces, (Y/N) was slightly unmotivated.

Rarity: Oh, who does that ruffian think he is?!

Rainbow Dash: Yeah! How can he just walk up and diss (Y/N) like that?!

(Y/N) just lowers his head and sighs as he shakes his head.

(Y/N): Well, I don't think that he's all talk you know... I better be on my toes during this competition. I mean, they do have a record of beating CHS and make sure that their efforts aren't forgotten.

After the little banter with both the Rainbooms and the Shadowbolts, Sci-Twi pretty much saw what happened and felt a little bad for (Y/N), but she felt it would be too awkward to go up and talk to him after what (R/N) said to him. She backs a little before bumping right into a waiting Pinkie Pie behind her.

Pinkie Pie: Hi, I'm Pinkie Pie!

She holds her hand out for a handshake which Sci-Twi timidly returns.

Sci-Twi: Oh, hi. I'm Twilight.

The two arms degenerate into a pink and violet blur as Pinkie pumps them frantically up and down. When she lets go, Twilight's glasses slide down so far that they might fall off at any moment.

Pinkie Pie: I know.

Now the specs drop to her chin and her hair tumbles out of its bun, turning her into a dead ringer for Princess Twilight.

Pinkie Pie: You look just like my friend. Her name is Twilight too.

Sci-Twi: That's... heh, weird.

She said as she fixed her hair back to normal in a bun. Pinkie then notices Sci-Twi's little device around her neck and seems interested in it.

Pinkie Pie: What's that?

Sci-Twi: It's sort of a spectrometer. I built it to track EM frequencies, but it can also contain anomalies.

No response except for a huge grin and a few blinks of Pinkie's big blue eyes.

Sci-Twi: It measures things.

Pinkie Pie: Like the party?

Which is still pretty dead, judging from cuts to the refreshment spread and the students sitting dully near the turntables. One has gone to sleep, and Vinyl Scratch slumps over her decks.

Sci-Twi: Yeah, though it doesn't look like much of a party to me.

Pinkie Pie: I know. Something is definitely missing.

She beams as an idea hits her and links her arm into Twilight's.

Pinkie Pie: Come on!

Twilight gets yanked bodily away by the peppy pink girl, leaving behind nothing but a startled yelp.

Meanwhile, (R/N) was leaning against the bleachers, observing (Y/N) and his harem with a disgusted expression.

(R/N): Ugh. That guy's a real mouthful.

Indigo Zap: I honestly can't believe he'd go as far as to use your parents as an insult. He probably thinks he's a real something with that "Hero" title of his.

Sour Sweet: *sweetly* If he hurts you, (R/N)...*sourly* I'll have him paralyzed from the neck down!

Sugarcoat: I am ashamed that we mistook him for you. He looks like a deformed clone that got lost in Twilight's closet of failed experiments.

Lemon Zest: That dude ain't cool and they somehow think that you're the one wearing his face.

(R/N): It doesn't matter what they think, and it certainly doesn't matter what he thinks either. We're going to win this thing, no matter how much they try to throw at us.

Sunny Flare just remained silent as she watched her friends go off about (Y/N), but knowing what (R/N) told Sci-Twi, she couldn't help but feel a bit enraged.

Sunny Flare: (I hope he doesn't let that get to him. (R/N)'s way more skilled than that jerk could ever hope to be. We'll see how much he wants to talk down to my boyfriend after the games are over.)

Soon after, Principal Celestia walks up on stage and gathers the attention of both student bodies.

Principal Celestia: Hello, everyone! I'd like to take this opportunity to greet all of our visitors from Crystal Prep Academy and welcome them to CHS.

Two large, wrapped gift boxes start to make their way into the gym, pushed by Twilight and Pinkie.

Sci-Twi: *grunts* What in the world is in these?

Pinkie Pie: Party cannons, of course!

Principal Celestia: And lastly, I would like to recognize the thirteen students that CHS has elected to compete.

Derpy, Micro Chips, and Sandalwood who were at the snack tables, waved to the crowd. Sweetie Drops (Bon Bon), Flash Sentry, and Lyra Heartstrings were lounging in the bleachers as the two girls wave, and Flash smirks and throws an index-finger gun gesture. Finally, the Rainbooms except for Pinkie were seen as the girls all turn and wave while (Y/N) gives a smirk, wink, and thumbs up. However, all of this quickly drops when they notice Sunset's disapproving look.

Principal Celestia: I don't think we could have chosen a better group to represent the excellence, sportsmanship, and friendship the games stand for.

(Y/N): (At least, that's what they're "supposed" to stand for...)

(R/N): (I used to prefer it either way, but not anymore...)

(Y/N)/(R/N): (...and it's all because of Cinch.)

The missing pink-haired goofball puts her head up from behind a table. Finding it set with trays of vegetable pieces and cheese cubes, she whisks them away and sets a large bundle in their place. The wrapping is quickly undone to become a new tablecloth, and the contents prove to be tray upon tray of cupcakes frosted in a multitude of colors. Fleur De Lis, standing nearby, is first to notice the quick change and be greatly perplexed by it.

Next Pinkie seizes a large circuit breaker switch and throws it, knocking out all the lights except for a spot that shines on a disco ball suspended from the rafters. She then hangs into view from the banner over Vinyl Scratch's booth, passes her a CD, and yanks herself up and away again. The turntablist slots it home and works the controls, starting a light, lively dance beat that sets faces from both factions to smiling. Sweetie Drops (Bon Bon), Flash, and Lyra perk up in the bleachers, and very soon the gym is abuzz with conversation as the two groups of students begin to mingle.

Now back at the two large boxes, Pinkie pulls them away and tosses them aside as an incredulous Twilight watches. Sure enough, inside each one is a bright pink cannon with a light-up bar gauge on the barrel. The support mounts are painted light yellow, and each one shows a balloon and a burst of confetti. Their owner/maker gets to work priming them.

Sci-Twi: Um, are you sure this is a good idea?

Pinkie Pie: Absolutely!

She pulls a string on each breech to set them both off at once. The resulting double blast of confetti and streamers sends Twilight diving for cover and brings cheers from the crowd. Once the geeky girl recovers her senses, she looks up to discover a party far livelier than it was just a few minutes earlier. People talking, laughing, dancing, with no regard to school loyalty or rivalry if a man were selling ice cream, it could be the setting for a Chicago song.

(Y/N) was initially confused on how the atmosphere changed so quickly before he quickly realizes that there could only be one girl responsible for this which made him smirk as he turned his head around to see Pinkie Pie with the party cannons.

(Y/N): *chuckles* That's Pinkie folks!

As Pinkie smiles ear to ear at the rescue she has just pulled off, she becomes wreathed in a sparkly pink glow and ponies up, rising clear of the floor.

Pinkie Pie: Ooh, floaty!

Twilight stands up, picking a loose streamer out of her hair, and her detector flares to life. This time, it not only indicates a direction but floats that way as if drawn by a magnet. She reels it in and holds on as it opens for the third time, drawing in the insubstantial pink streamers that are Pinkie's magic. As it leaves the party planner's body, she loses her cheer and sinks down, reverting to normal as the corona fades.

Pinkie Pie: Aw! Oh. I am party pooped.

Perhaps the very last thing that might be expected from either this girl or her pony counterpart, but the hand she drapes over her forehead speaks to their truth.

The siphoned magic crackles at the heart of Twilight's detector, throwing a spark that shoots through an opening between the rows of bleachers. Spotting its tiny glow on the other side, she leans in for a better look and sees it grow into a pink and purple-edged swirl whose center opens to show something very different from the gym wall.

A stretch of gnarled, vine-covered tree trunks that look very much like the old growth in Equestria's Everfree Forest. Twilight's mouth falls open in pure shock, and she manages to slam the detector closed after a moment's struggle. A second look into the bleachers shows her that the strange view is quickly shrinking away to nothing, and the detector shuts down as well. She can only scratch her head, absolutely confounded by this bizarre turn of events.

Out on the gym floor, the party continues until Abacus taps the microphone, generating a feedback squeal. The lights come up, startling Vinyl Scratch into a record scratch that sets off an even worse whine. Dancing and conversation stop just as quickly, leaving the place dead silent as she speaks into the mic, her next three lines amplified.

Principal Cinch: I'd like to thank Principal Celestia for her unconventional welcome. It's been four years since the last Friendship Games, but it feels as though nothing has changed.

(R/N): (Unfortunately, you didn't either.)

A mixed group of students were all taken aback by her buzzkilling words.

Principal Cinch: Canterlot High continues to pick its competitors in a popularity contest and Crystal Prep continues to field its top twelve students. It is a comfort to know that even after so many years of losses, your school remains committed to its ideals, however misguided they may be. I wish you all the best of luck, regardless of the inevitable outcome.

Principal Celestia and Vice Principal Luna scowl at her and even down from below offstage, (Y/N) didn't exactly have the most approving look for Principal Cinch boasting about Crystal Prep's advantage over Canterlot High and oddly enough, neither did (R/N).

(Y/N): (*sarcastically* Yeah... THAT was encouraging...)

(R/N): (*sigh* You know, I'd like at least one year where she can SPECIFICALLY acknowledge the top students in the school. We're the reason you even have this reputation!)

(Y/N) then heard a really exhausted moan as he looked over and saw that it was from Pinkie Pie who approached him with a few hairs having sprung loose from the frizzy magenta mop atop her head.

(Y/N): Pinkie! You alright?

He asked as he quickly embraced the pink party girl letting her rest her head on his shoulder.

Pinkie Pie: I-I...I feel funny, (Y/N).

(Y/N): Normally, I would say that you always feel funny... but looking at you I'm sure it's a different kind of funny.

Applejack: I'm sorry, Pinkie. I thought your party additions were really swell.

Fluttershy: They definitely broke the ice.

Rarity: Yes, if only that Principal Cinch hadn't frozen it again.

Pinkie Pie: Yeah, she's awful.

Nearby, (R/N) couldn't help but overhear them.

(R/N): *rolls eyes* (Welcome to my world.)

Sunset Shimmer: Wow, Pinkie, what happened to you?

Pinkie Pie: I don't know. Everyone started having fun after Twilight and I fired the party cannons and I ponied up.

Sunset Shimmer: Of course you did.

Pinkie Pie: But then the magic just drained right out of me.

(Y/N): Drained... Just like with Rarity and Sunset...

(R/N): (Drained? Is that what was going on back at the statue?)

Applejack: Hey, where is that other Twilight?

Pinkie Pie: Oh, she's right—

There is nothing in the direction she has indicated except for a patch of confetti-strewn gym floor.

Pinkie Pie: Well, she was right here.

(R/N): (She's...taking something from them? Okay, I don't care whether or not they're rivals, she needs to go give whatever it was she took back to them.)

With that, he silently takes off to go find Sci-Twi.

(R/N): (God, another problem you've got me stuck trying to fix, Twilight. What am I gonna do with you?)

Lemon Zest: Yo, where you goin' (R/N)?

(R/N) freezes as he turns around to face Lemon and the other four Shadowbolt girls with a sheepish grin.

(R/N): Uhhh...I'm just gonna hit the can for a bit. Sort of had a bit too much fruit punch, heh heh.

Sugarcoat: *sigh* Don't be so careless when you decide to indulge yourself, (R/N).

(R/N): Yeah, yeah, spare me the lectures, Sugar, I need to go.

And with that, he takes off through the same set of doors that (Y/N) and the Rainbooms went through. He looked around aimlessly throughout the halls of CHS, but couldn't find any trace of her. Eventually, he found her in the cafeteria with her pet dog, eyeing her spectrometer on the lunch table before her. (R/N) quickly steps in, taking in the dimmed environment as Sci-Twi turns her attention towards him.

Sci-Twi: (R-R/N)?!

(R/N): Twilight, what is going on? That clone of me and his girls are saying that you did something to them. I told you not to wander aimlessly!

Sci-Twi: I-I don't know what happened! M-My spectrometer opened on its own and it took something from that pink girl. I tried to close it, but then it opened some kind of rift to a forest!

(R/N): ...okay, what?

Sci-Twi: I-It's the truth! I was detecting strange readings from this school for a while and I think this might be the cause of it.

(R/N): You need to give it back to them! They're already aware that you're the one taking whatever it is you obtained from them! If word gets out, Crystal Prep may have to forfeit for theft and I will lose everything that I have! Probably way worse than if we actually lost!

Sci-Twi: B-But I don't know if I can!

(R/N): Well, you better find a way to do it! Crystal Prep could be in serious jeopardy if CHS discovers that we stole something of their property!

Sci-Twi: B-But—!

(R/N): No, buts, Twilight! I'm sick of having to clean up every mess you make, so either you return it to them now, or I'll destroy that stupid thing and give it back myself! Let me remind you, we are here to win against them, not steal their property and try to research it, so FIGURE IT OUT!!

With that, he storms off, slamming the doors behind him as Sci-Twi looks back down at her spectrometer. She holds a finger over it, ready to open the device in order to release the magic, but then she hears a voice.

???: Are you really going to give up all that research?

Sci-Twi: W-Wha? Who said that?!

???: Don't try to look for me. You're not gonna find me anywhere. I'm inside your head.

Sci-Twi: Wh-What?! NO! Get out! Get out! Get outta my head!

???: Calm down, Twilight. I'm not going to hurt you, I promise. But tell me, why are you giving up all your efforts now? You spent countless months on all this research and now you just want to throw it all away?

Sci-Twi: I-It's not worth it. I-I did something to (Y/N)'s friends and now he's all worried about them. I-If people have to get hurt for my research, then I shouldn't delve further into it.

???: Come on, it's not like you put them in danger. You just...took a little bit of their stamina. Big deal, that can be easily restored with a little water and exercise. What you've got in your hands right now is very powerful and if you could understand what it's capable of, you could get applied anywhere!

Sci-Twi: A-Anywhere?

???: Yes, anywhere. They'd be blown away at all the research you've conducted and the results you've gathered would be even more astonishing! Though, I'd advise not to alert any of your peers about this, especially (R/N).

Sci-Twi: Wh-What? Why?

???: You know Crystal Prep, they don't celebrate anything that they didn't achieve on their own. Heck, they don't even pay you much attention either.

Sci-Twi: Th-That's not true, (R/N) does! He came here looking for me!

???: Only because he was mad about what your device took from those girls. He wasn't worried about you. You heard it from him, you're just an accident waiting to happen for Crystal Prep!

Sci-Twi: S-Stop! J-Just leave me alone!

???: *sigh* Fine, but don't give up your hard work just because he wants you to. They don't care about you, so why listen to them at all? It's solid advice, Twilight, so take it.

Sci-Twi: W-Who are you?

???: Like I said, just a voice inside your head. Trust me, we're a lot closer than you think. Farewell, for now, Twilight..

And with that, silence flows through the area as Sci-Twi took a close look down at her device once more with a fearful look. Although she wanted to get rid of it at this point, with what both the voice inside of her said along with (R/N), she apparently had no choice, but to hold onto it for a bit longer.

Chapter 17 End.