Equestria Girls: Starlight's Story

[Scene 9: The Tables have Turned]

[EXT. Parking lot-Crystal Prep Academy-The City-Morning]

[Principal Cinch has just arrived from her car, and notices a limo parked in one of the spaces, and enters the school.]

[INT. Hallways-Crystal Prep Academy]

[Cinch tries furiously to call somebody on her cellphone, but with no answer.]

Principal Cinch: Come on, come on… [grunts] I cannot believe that fool is not answering. He must've known I'd find out. Is he trying to ridicule me? I swear if I ever see that ignoramus again, I will—

Voice: Principal Cinch!

[Cinch stops and sees who's approaching her in one of the halls. It is the president of the Canterlot High School Board, Spoiled Rich. She is a tall, thin, middle-aged lady with dark pink skin, groomed purple hair, and a curled upward nose. She also has dark turquoise eyes, light purple eyeshadow, a big diamond ring on her finger (her cutie mark), a gold chain necklace around her neck, and a light blue dress on. She walks up to Principal Cinch with an unpleasant scowl.]

Principal Cinch: Spoiled Rich. I thought I saw your limo taking up space in our parking lot. To what do I own the pleasure of speaking with the head of Canterlot High's school board here in my academy?

Spoiled Rich: Spare me the pleasantry, Cinch. I'm here to ask what kind of school are you running here. It seems that you have absolutely no idea how to properly educate your students into behaving in the most civilized standings. Let alone the lack of respect and trust you are setting for them. You have proven once again your complete incompetence in keeping this school functioning the way it should.

Principal Cinch: How dare you question my resolve? I have done nothing but keeping my school afloat. But if you want to continue about that mishap at the Friendship Games, I assure you, I was barely involved. Of course, being from a rival school, I can see you may have some concerns for your fair dues.

Spoiled Rich: Oh I'm not talking about that. I was referring to the control you have over your students. Have you been setting a good example? I hope you are proud of yourself for all the damage.

Principal Cinch: What are you talking about?

[Spoiled Rich pulls a cellphone out of her handbag, taps on it, and shows it to Principal Cinch. The phone plays a video of Starlight's attack on the Canterlot High students on the sports field. Cinch looks in shock to see her star-student, in her Crystal Prep uniform, beating on kids from their rival school; knocking them down with little effort, beating them senseless with advance fighting moves, and blasting them with her custom-made weapons. The footage has left Cinch dumbfounded.]

Spoiled Rich: Isn't that your prized pupil you praised so much about?

Principal Cinch: I…uh…but…how…eh…?

Spoiled Rich: My daughter recorded all this on her video phone, as well as several other students. It's already posted on the internet now. Both school boards have probably seen it by now, and knowing them, they are as displeased about it as I am. Is this what you've been teaching your kids over here. I know Crystal Prep has a history of pulling pranks on Canterlot High. But this seems to be a tad too much, don't you think? Shows how incompetent you really are, letting psychopaths like this into your school. And since you recommended this girl to enroll here, it seems fitting that you should be held responsible as well.

Principal Cinch: Now wait a minute! I—

Spoiled Rich: The school is going to have a meeting with Principal Celestia later this afternoon. I'm already considering scheduling a personal meeting for myself, and Principal Celestia and Vice Principal Luna, with you and the head of your school board. Then we will discuss your future here at Crystal Prep. If things go exactly as I predicted, you won't be able to get a job teaching at a children's daycare center.

Principal Cinch [startled]: But…but…but…I…

Spoiled Rich: Now, it would seem I have wasted enough of my time as it is. So now if you excuse me, I have to return to the board and set up our meeting with Celestia. I'll be seeing you very soon, 'Miss' Cinch. Good day.

[Spoiled Rich turns around and walks away from Cinch down one of the halls. She passes Fleur Dis Lee and Suri Polomare, who both turn and look at Mrs. Rich.]

Suri Polomare: What's up with that woman's nose?

[Cinch continues her walk down the hallways, feeling offended by what Spoiled Rich said, but is also devastated by what has happened. While going through a hall full of students, she can see they are all talking amongst themselves in groups. Cinch feels uneasy from overhearing her students' comments about Starlight. At one point, she looks over one boy's shoulders, and sees him and his friends watching the Starlight vs. CHS video on his phone. She continues up the stairs to her office, still shaken up from the news, with a hint of anger.]

[EXT./INT. Principal Cinch's office-Crystal Prep Academy]

[Cinch tries to shake off the negative feeling from the Canterlot incident as she approaches her office door. As she enters the office, she is surprised to find Starlight Glimmer sitting in her chair in a relaxed position, staring at Cinch with a sinister smile, her legs crossed and feet propped onto the desk, and her hands place behind her head. She then breaks her position to greet Cinch.]

Starlight Glimmer: Welcome back, Cinch.

Principal Cinch [walking towards Starlight in anger]: Get out of that chair!

Starlight Glimmer: Why? Is feel go comfortable.

Principal Cinch: I said get out!

Starlight Glimmer: And the position it's in. Behind this desk; the power, the authority, the feeling of importance. I can see why you like it so much.

Principal Cinch [standing next to Starlight]: Funny. I was just about to call you in. What are you doing here?

Starlight Glimmer: Same as you. I just want to talk. In fact, I'd thought of keeping myself entertained in the meantime.

[Starlight pulls out a cellphone, and plays the video of her. It is at the part where she flipped Bulk Biceps.]

Starlight Glimmer: [laughs] That is my favorite part. It's wasn't easy turning that lunk's mass against him. [laughs]

Principal Cinch: Are you insane?! Is this why you skipped school yesterday?! What were you thinking?! You walked in a rival school in broad daylight; you attacked a number of innocent students; you violated the relationships between our two schools, and for what?! Vandalism, assault, trespassing, damage to private property, and possession of hostile weaponry…have you got any shame?! I have a mind to report you to the—

[At this point, Starlight stands up from Cinch's chair, and confronts her with a more serious tone.]

Starlight Glimmer: Spare me your sentimental nonsense. Why do you care? You hate Canterlot High. You hate the Wondercolts. I only did what you wanted.

Principal Cinch: Excuse me!? Why in the world would I want you to launch a one-man assault on Canterlot High for no reason?! I would never ask for such behavior!

Starlight Glimmer [walking around the desk]: Oh please. You despise Canterlot High for costing you that win at the Friendship Games. You despise them for putting a black mark on your "perfect" winning-streak. You see them as such a nuisance. I was just trying to make a point; that Crystal Prep is way more superior to Canterlot High. Now that this is your intention, not mine. I'm more interested in befriending them as equals. [She sits down on the usual stool in front of the desk.] Come to think of it, they were doing friendship all wrong. So many different interests, different styles, different talents…I just had to let them know that what they were doing is all wrong.

Principal Cinch: This is outrageous! Such acts of intolerance are not how a Crystal Prep Shadowbolt should behave. If you wish to continue your stay at Crystal Prep, you will have to answer for what you have committed.

Starlight Glimmer: Oh, what are you gonna do? Expel me? The officials won't let you.

Principal Cinch: Oh really?

[Principal Cinch picks up her office phone and taps in the number with confidence, while Starlight looks at her with an unfazed smirk.]

Principal Cinch [on the phone]: Hello, Child's Service? This is Abacus Cinch, headmistress of Crystal Prep Academy…Yes; I'm calling about a certain student of mine…Starlight Glimmer. You see, she's been behaving in the most absurd manner. So she- …What? ...But…I didn't call you for that…What? ...But I didn't…She is? …But…Alright, thank you. [She hangs up the phone, looking all stunned. Then she looks at Starlight, still smirking. Cinch becomes more firm and picks up the phone again.] Hello, Social Department? This is Abacus Cinch… I want talk to about Ms. Starlight Glimmer…What? ...What email? I didn't send you an email…Well, I know she's my responsibility. But she- …Oh…I see…Well, thank you anyway. [Principal hangs up the phone again, looking wearier, and Starlight's still smirking. She tries putting in another number.] Hello, Homeland Security? My name's Abacus Cinch. My students, Starlight Glimmer, had done a terrible thing. She is in possession of some very dangerous equipment, and- …What do you mean it was just a kid's home movie?!...I know I shouldn't take it seriously. But- …But I didn't- …Alright. [She keeps calling numbers desperately and hanging up over-and-over. But no one would hear her out about Starlight.] But I didn't send you a document…Yes, I'm sure of it…I understand. You look into that then…Goodbye.

[She hangs up once more, feeling depressed, while Starlight just sitting there, still smiling.]

Starlight Glimmer: Aw, what's the matter, Cinch? Couldn't get any of the sources to hear you out? That's too bad.

Principal Cinch [looking at Starlight all terrified]: What did you do?

Starlight Glimmer: I made sure my place at Crystal Prep is secured, unlike yours. Homeland Security, huh?

Principal Cinch: How…how did you do all that? How do you know those numbers?

Starlight Glimmer: I thought you weren't interested in what I do in my free time.

Principal Cinch: I…It doesn't matter. I can still go to the school board about this.

Starlight Glimmer: Oh, I wouldn't go do that. It's most likely the board has already caught wind of that little incident at CHS. They must be very ticked at you about that by now. I know they were upset with you before, but could you imagine how furious they are at the moment?

Principal Cinch: Don't you start passing blame onto me. We both know you are responsible for that catastrophe.

Starlight Glimmer: True, and who is responsible for me? How wonderful it will be for to explain to the members of the board how your student, your 'star-student', you star-student who 'you' recommended personally has gone on a senseless rampage on a rival school?

[Then Cinch, more irritated than before, pulls a file out from her desk.]

Principal Cinch: I-It won't come to that. I just have to show them this. I'm sure they'll understand.

Starlight Glimmer: Ah yes, my completed juvy record. [Cinch looks at Starlight in surprise.] Yeah, that's right. I know Stormy Flare came to visit, and I know about your representative. I just don't know who that is. You wouldn't happen to know who that is, do you? [Cinch remains silent.] Anyway, it's quite a shame you gave Stormy Flare the 'only' evidence to this misunderstanding. It wouldn't look good for you if you tell them I came from juvenile hall, as you claimed to have "hand-picked me". That might raise a lot of questions. If you planning on taking me to the school board to confess my actions, then I'll just tell them you put the idea in my head. And you can't tell them you were fooled, or else you'll be a laughing stock in Crystal Prep history. Just give it up, Cinch. It's my word against yours. You can't get rid of me that easily.

[Cinch becomes furious that a little girl has trumped her every move. But then a thought has come to her mind, and she starts to calm and give a smile.]

Principal Cinch: Well in that case, if I can't get you to leave Crystal Prep, then I'll just have to make your stay here most unpleasurable, as you try to ruin mine. Stormy Flare dropped you into my lap, now she's gonna get you off my back. I understand you're hoping to gain your classmates' influence into joining your "equality sect". But after reading the contents of your record, I find it appalling and disturbing to boot. Why, if word ever got out about what you've been promising the other students…

Starlight Glimmer: Are you…threatening me?

Principal Cinch: I prefer to think of it as "reminding you that this is my territory, and warning you about the hazardous conditions that come from treading on it", but…yes. So I'll make you a deal. All I ask is your complete cooperation and for you to take full responsibility for what happened at Canterlot High, and I may keep this information just between the two of us. Although, I could inform the students about your past. That wouldn't look good for your generous proposal. What do you think I should do?

[The two just stare at each other, frozen in a moment of complete silence, until it is broken by Starlight, bursting with laughter. Cinch is caught off guard by this sudden reaction.]

Principal Cinch: What's so funny?!

Starlight Glimmer: Sorry, but that would be intimidating if you were…well intimidating. [laughs]

Principal Cinch: Don't you understanding what I'm saying here?! I'm practically holding your future in my hands!

[Starlight starts to settle, and she pulls out some sort of little microphone gadget. When she flips the switch, the entire intercom system gives off a high pitch squealing sound that everybody in the school can hear.]

Starlight Glimmer [talking into the gadget, on the intercom]: Attention all students. This is your fellow classmate, Starlight Glimmer speaking, and I am here today to deliver a very important announcement.

[Principal Cinch is surprised to see Starlight speaking on the intercom through her little wireless device. She tries using her own microphone to figure out this predicament, but there is no response from it.]

Starlight Glimmer: [to Principal Cinch] Yeah, that's right. I high jacked your intercom system. [Back on the intercom] As you probably know, there been a series of videos on the internet of me attacking the Canterlot High School Wondercolts. And it pains me to inform you…it is true. I have assaulted our rival school. For you see, I was just trying to relate to all of you. [All the students in the school the members of faculty, even Dean Cadance are listening to the announcement. This includes the Shadow Five and the four kids who know Starlight.] I am fully aware of your history and your relationship with the students of Canterlot High. Of how you wanted to crush them for not being like you, to show them that they are inferior compared to you, to prove you are more superior in all things. But now I understand you want no quarrel with them anymore. You want to befriend them instead. To be the equals. And that's been my intention for a very long time. I have been trying the show people that there is a better life than being great, that you'd never have to be alone, and that there shouldn't be so many differences. I was so close to making that vision true, until…well…I must be honest with you. I have spent three months prior to attending Crystal Prep in juvenile hall. [Principal Cinch is shocked to hear Starlight confessing, and the students are more than surprised to hear of this.] I know this will come as a shock, but it's true. And you must understand that the things I've done to end up there was just for the sake of others. Could you imagine being sent to juvy just because you were doing what you believe is right?! [Most of the students listening start expressing their agreement.] Is this how you want to be remembered? To deliver pain to those lesser than you?! To be branded as purveyors of hatred and false judgement?! To be misled by the words of the most misguided of individuals into becoming a pack of sellouts?! [The students continue their approval; all except the Shadow Five and the four friends.] I am here to help you from suffering the same fate as I did, while showing you the meaning of true friendship! For together, we have a chance to make-up for our mistakes! So we can be redeemed! So we can be cured! So we can be all EQUALS!

[Starlight turns off her device and turns back to Cinch, looking all distorted.]

Starlight Glimmer [to Principal Cinch]: How's that for influence? Did you really think you can control me with such a feeble attempt like that? I'm not ashamed of my past. I knew you going to exploit my record in hopes to manipulate me. You're so predictable. But if you really want to play that game, fine. Let's play.

[She pulls a folder out of her backpack, and slams it on the desk in front of Cinch. Cinch looks down on it with confusion. She opens it up and is shocked to see what's inside.]

Starlight Glimmer: The numerous benefactors who have been placing bets on your past Friendship Games, favoring Crystal Prep and giving you your usual cut to add to the school's budget. The anonymous parties that supply you with the equipment for your school, some of which come from devious origins. A list of students that you threatened to exploit if they did not answer your demands; along with those demands, and the intel you used against them. Hundreds of rejected students' requests. Hm, seems this one was meant for charity. Guess you didn't think it was worth their time. And what's this? Hundreds of intercepted messages of students…demanding your retirement.

Principal Cinch [looking franticly through the papers]: Where did you get this?

Starlight Glimmer: Now who's interested in my free-time? [She pulls out a recorder.] Oh, and let's not forget the previous talk we had about my predecessor. [She clicks "plays".]

Starlight Glimmer's voice on the recorder: "Did you ever give Twilight Sparkle a choice?"

Principal Cinch's voice on the recorder: "Twilight Sparkle was weak. She had the passion for learning, but lacked the confidence and determination to do whatever it takes to win."

Principal Cinch: You've been recording us?

Starlight Glimmer: I don't think the school would be happy to know what you've been doing behind their backs. Wouldn't you agree? First order of business is to get new chairs for this office. I am not gonna make these dealings on a stool.

Principal Cinch [smiling]: Let me see if I got this right. So your plan is to blackmail ME, but you just handed the evidence to ME. Now what's the next step in your "master plan"?

Starlight Glimmer [playful distort]: Oh! Oh no! Your right! What was I thinking? My plan has been foiled! Whatever am I going to do now? Oh well. Guess I'll just have to use one of the copies then.

Principal Cinch [stun]: "Copies?"

Starlight Glimmer: Yeah. You didn't think I flash this stuff in front of you without making backups.

Principal Cinch: WHERE ARE THERE?!

Starlight Glimmer: They're EVERYWHERE! They're in my locker, they're at my house, they're in my cellphone, in my computer, on a private account on the internet just waiting to be uploaded! I made dozens. Even if you can find one, I'll still have more, and have hidden them so you can never get to them all. You have nothing on me. [Takes out a cellphone] All I have to do is hit a button, make a call to contact, or walk to the nearest mailbox, and all your dirty secrets will go viral. So, Abacus…may I call you "Abacus"?

Principal Cinch: No.

Starlight Glimmer: So, Abacus. You can't stop me no matter what you do.

Principal Cinch: That doesn't seem fair.

Starlight Glimmer: Fair? Don't you dare act like you know anything about me. That village of mine was a sanctuary of equality, where nobody would ever be allowed to feel superior! It was a special place, until people like 'you' took it away! Now it's MY turn to take something special from YOU!

Principal Cinch: Are you so willing as to run all of Crystal Prep to the ground?

Starlight Glimmer: Oh of course not. I'm not going to destroy Crystal Prep. I'm going to cure it! One bad rep for a bad rep! Sounds like a fair trade to me! What do you think I should do?

Principal Cinch [facing forward, as Starlight stands beside her]: And to think, you were meant to save my reputation. Now it seems my plans have just backfired on me. I was gonna reclaim what is rightfully mine. But I had it taken away from me. Now I have lost the trust and respect of all my students, all thanks to a few individuals who did not approve of my vision.

[Starlight then pauses and looks down upon the headmistress with a realization.]

Starlight Glimmer: I see. Guess we do have something in common after all.

[Principal Cinch then looks up at Starlight with the same expression. The two just stare at each other for just a moment.]

Starlight Glimmer [smiling]: Tell you what…I'm gonna help you. [Puts away the cellphone, and take away the file and recorder] So here's the deal. I'm gonna keep this information between the two of us. As for "blackmail", I may ask for a few things in the future, which I am hoping you will grant. But for now, I'm only asking for one thing from you…Don't get in my way. [She is able to leave, but stops before she can make a step.] Now that I think about it, there is, at the moment of course, just one more little thing you can do for me.

[Principal Cinch looks with caution, while Starlight keeps grinning down on her.

[INT. Science lab-Canterlot High School]

[Both Twilight and Sunset (in lab coats) are going through the weapons and gadgets Starlight left behind with her duffel bag. They just take them apart and look over the pieces, while Spike brings them the tools they asked for. They have a wheeled bulletin board with the photos of Starlight's assault on the students pinned on it. Just then, their five friends walk in.]

Spike: Hey, girls!

Applejack: Howdy, Spike.

Fluttershy [to Twilight]: Did you find what you were looking for?

Twilight Sparkle: Oh yes. Lots of it actually.

Applejack: Mighty kind of Principal Celestia to give you two access to that Shadowbolt girl's freaky gizmos.

Sunset Shimmer: I'll say. Some of this tech used in the attack is amazing, and some I found very peculiar.

Rarity: What do you mean?

[Sunset holds up tweezers with a small circuit board in them.]

Sunset Shimmer: Look at this. A PJRC Circuit Board.

Rainbow Dash: Okay?

Sunset Shimmer: This is the kind of stuff you find in MP3 players. [She looks at the disassembled devices.] Cellphones, Computers, Digital Camera…Whoever this girl is, she managed to remove the circuit from ordinary electronics and out them, together with these new parts, to make weapons. Some of them I don't even recognize. They must handmade.

Twilight Sparkle: Well the explosives is what got me interested. I analyzed the chemical compound in the bombs and rocket fuel, and I was able to identify the mixture. Some of the chemicals were very familiar. There's one place I know that they are registered to.

Sunset Shimmer: Let me guess…Crystal Prep science lab?

Twilight Sparkle: Yes. But that's not what got me boggled. The rest of the chemicals I found very interesting. They seem to be comprised of ordinary cleaning fluids and ground-up minerals, like rocks you can just find right outside. The combination of that, along with these classroom chemicals, can make a combustible compound or a vapor emitting fluid.

Sunset Shimmer: So this mystery girl is not only a tech genius, but also an expert in chemistry.

[Rainbow Dash and Applejack look at the photos on the board.]

Rainbow Dash: [grunts] I can't believe Photo Finish took pictures of us getting our butts kicked. Still, not too bad.

Applejack: Yeah. Not only is this girl tough, she's good. [She points at the picture of when her lasso was wrapped around Starlight's thruster gadget after she ducked from getting tied up by it.] Like right there. The second she saw my lasso, she ducked just before it went taut. Must have taken some good timing and reflexes to pull that off.

Twilight Sparkle: Yeah. [She seems lost in thought.]

Spike: Are you alright, Twilight?

Twilight Sparkle: Huh? Oh yes, of course.

Sunset Shimmer: Still thinking this Crystal Prep girl could be Starlight Glimmer?

Twilight Sparkle: I don't know. She might be.

Rainbow Dash: Well if we know who she is, why don't we go tell Principal Celestia or Vice Principal Luna about it?

Twilight Sparkle: Because we're not even sure if it really is her. We never even met her before.

Sunset Shimmer: Yeah. We don't even know what she looks like.

Fluttershy: She's right. All we have to go on is what Princess Twilight told us about her the last time she was here.

Pinkie Pie: [quickly] Yeah. Like how we never got a response from Princess Twilight during the Friendship Games about the Twilight from this world and our magic getting stolen. But she couldn't because she was busy in Equestria with one of her enemies, Starlight Glimmer, a crazy pony who grew bitter and tried to make everyone exactly the same. So she takes revenge on Twilight by having her caught in a time traveling loop, preventing her from having any friends. But then Twilight showed her what they were doing to the present. So she shows her what friendship truly means and fixes everything, and then decided to take Starlight on as her student. Only afterwards, she got our message, only to come to our world and meet the new Twilight.

Twilight Sparkle: I'm not quite certain if that really is Starlight or not, but the way she talked about "equality" and "true friendship", and how she put that equal sign on the Wondercolt statue, it's exactly how the other me described her. Could you imagine if it really was her, the girl who was meant to be 'my' students? Now she's at Crystal Prep. Who knows what sort of things Principal Cinch could be doing to her; how they're treating her over there? And she wants to know who Midnight Sparkle is.

Sunset Shimmer: Don't worry. [She looks at her magic journal, sitting on one of the tables.] I've already sent a message to Princess Twilight of this development. I know she might have a lot to deal with, being a princess of Equestria. So I'm not expecting an immedient response. But it doesn't hurt to ask for some advice, since she knows more about Starlight than we do.

Applejack: We sure could use some. She told us the Starlight in her world is pretty talented with magic. Could you imagine how talented she is with science in this one?

Rarity: I believe we've proven that theory first hand. I just can't believe my clothes were all wrecked during that commotion.

Rainbow Dash: [grunts] I am so miffed that one little girl was able to beat us like that.

[Meanwhile, Spike distracts himself by swinging around and gnawing on his chew rope near the entrance. He swings it so hard; it flies out of his mouth and out the door, into the halls. Spike runs out to get it, while getting in the way of an orange-skinned boy. Spike notices the kid stopping in front of him, and starts sniffing him. He has spikey blue hair under a red and white cap, and purple eyes under a pair of sunglasses. He wears red sneakers, blue sweat pants, and a red, white, and black jacket.]

Boy: Whoa! Sorry, dog.

[Fluttershy walks out of the science lab, gets Spike, and goes back into the room, as the orange boy proceeds walking.]

Sunset Shimmer: Look. Let's say this girl is Starlight Glimmer. We don't have anything that ca—

[Suddenly, Twilight's laptop makes a sort of "pinging" sound, signaling her she has a video chat request. She goes to her computer and responds to the message. Then a video window opens up, with Dean Cadance on the other end.]

Dean Cadance: Twilight!

Twilight Sparkle: Dean Cadance!

Dean Cadance: Oh Twilight! I've just learned what happened. Are you alright? Are your friends okay?

Twilight Sparkle: I'm fine. We're all fine.

Dean Cadance: Oh I am sorry. I never meant any of it to happen. She's one of our new students. I had no idea she would go this far. Her name is—

Twilight Sparkle: Starlight Glimmer.

Dean Cadance [now perplexed]: Yes…it is. [The others girls are now shocked to hear of this.] How did you know that?

Twilight Sparkle: Um…lucky guess?

Dean Cadance [unconvinced]: That's was way too specific for just a guess.

Twilight Sparkle: Um…well…uh…

Sunset Shimmer: She told us herself when she was here. What do you know about her?

Dean Cadance: Starlight Glimmer has been enrolled here at Crystal Prep for the past two weeks. She is very brilliant, but uncontrollable. When I spoke with her, all she wanted is for everyone to be treated fairly and equally. It was just yesterday, I've learned she spent three month in juvenile hall with no progress. She's dangerous. I can't believe she would be capable of doing such a thing.

Applejack: Guess that means she's in real trouble now, right?

Dean Cadance: She should be. But Principal Cinch has ordered the staff to not go anywhere near her until farther notice. Not long ago, Starlight herself have just made an announcement over the intercom, confessing her time in juvy. Now the students are rallying around her words. And to make matters worse, Spoiled Rich, the head of your school board came over and called Cinch out on it.

Rainbow Dash: Whoa.

Dean Cadance: She said she's considering a personal meeting with the heads of both boards and schools.

Twilight Sparkle: Is there anything we can do?

Dean Cadance: I'm afraid there isn't. I'll see what I can do over here. I'm so glad you're all alright.

Twilight Sparkle: Yeah. Me too. [She closes the chat, and turns to her friends, now looking disturbed.] She's Starlight Glimmer.

Sunset Shimmer: And she's still evil in this world.

Rainbow Dash: Three months in juvenile hall.

Fluttershy: What are we gonna do now?

Applejack [noticing Sunset's journal is glowing and vibrating]: Look!

Sunset Shimmer: Well, looks like we're about to find out.

[Sunset picks up the book and opens it, while everyone else gathers around to hear the message.]

Pinkie Pie: What's it say?

Sunset Shimmer: It says "Help Starlight Glimmer. Trust her. Be patient with her. I know you can do it. Good luck. – Twilight." [She looks closely at the message, all confused. She even turns the page to see if there's anymore.] That's all there is.

Rarity: [sarcastically] Well that was certainly helpful.

Applejack: Great. Now what are we gonna do?

Sunset Shimmer: Maybe Princess Twilight thinks we're all capable of figuring this out on our own.

Rainbow Dash: Well I say we go to Crystal Prep and teach that Starlight girl not to mess with us.

Sunset Shimmer: Hold on, Rainbow Dash. Let's not get ahead of ourselves. We need to plan this out. We can't just rush in and confront this girl head on. We need to know what she's hoping to accomplish.

[Twilight goes over to one of the lab tables, with several more photos of Starlight's attack. She goes through some of them, until one of them just stuns her.]

Twilight Sparkle: [loudly gasps]

[This catches her friends' attention.]

Sunset Shimmer: Twilight? What is it? What's the matter?

[Twilight's face is frozen with fright. Sunset walks up to her and looks at the photo she's holding. She expresses the same fear in her face as she takes the picture from Twilight's hand. She drops the photo and runs out the lab.]

Rarity: Sunset? What is it?

Applejack: What's wrong?

[The picture falls to the floor, revealing it to be the one Photo Finish took of Starlight stealing Twilight's magical spectrograph from Sunset's locker.]

[INT. Hallways-Canterlot High School]

[Sunset looks frantically through the inside of her locker. Her friends catch up to her.]

Sunset Shimmer: It's gone! Twilight, your magic capture device is gone! She took it! How did she get in?

Twilight Sparkle: She must've been after that device the whole time, and the attack on Canterlot High was just a diversion.

Pinkie Pie: Oh no! What could she want from stealing that thing?!

Fluttershy: With Starlight having that pendent, I can't imagine what she could do.

[As her friends talk amongst themselves, Twilight is in deep thought.]

[INT. Hallways-Crystal Prep Academy]

[Starlight is smiling, walking down the hall with a small stack of files under her arm. A girl student is walking towards her. When she notices Starlight, she scarcely moves aside for her.]

Girl: Go right ahead! I insist!

Starlight Glimmer: Why thank you. That was awfully kind. [As she continues walking, she waves over to the Shadow Five.] Hi, girls!

[They feel a bit uncomfortable to see her at the moment.]

Sour Sweet: [sweetly] Hi, Starlight!

Starlight Glimmer: Hey, uh…I'm sorry. Am I speaking to Sweet or Sour? It's really hard to tell. [To the others] I've been looking for you guys. I have something to tell you.

Indigo Zap: Yeah, we got something to tell you too. What were you thinking?!

Starlight Glimmer: What do you mean?

Sunny Flare: You assaulted the Canterlot High Wondercolts!

Starlight Glimmer: Oh that. Sweet, wasn't it?

Lemon Zest: What? No! Those were our friends.

Starlight Glimmer: Friends? Those were Wondercolts, your archrivals, the very people you love to hate. I thought you like to have them beaten and humiliated. And I can see why, they all seem to have so many differences.

Indigo Zap: Well…yeah…but things are different now.

Sunny Flare: You had no right to do that.

Sugarcoat: Well, in my opini—[Starlight looks at her with an angry look on her face.] Nevermind.

Starlight Glimmer: In any case, I guess that makes me one of you now.

Sour Sweet: [sourly] Are you kidding me?! There's no way you're one of us after the stunt you pulled! There is nothing in this world you can do to make me acce—

[Starlight presents the files to the girls.]

Sugarcoat: What is that?

Starlight Glimmer: Everything Principal Cinch has on you girls.

[The girls seem surprised.]

Lemon Zest: What?!

Starlight Glimmer: That's right. [She hands out each of the girls their own file.] All information that that Cinch had to use as leverage against each and every one of you. Profiles, photos, it's all here. Now you can do whatever you want without that witch bearing down on your shoulders.

Indigo Zap: Whoa.

Sour Sweet: [sweetly] Did I ever tell you how caring and gener-?

Starlight Glimmer: Save your breath. I know you don't mean it.

Sunny Flare: Wow. Starlight, I don't know what to say. Thank you.

Starlight Glimmer: No worries. It's just something that "good friends" do for one another.

Lemon Zest: Whoa! This is cool. How did you get these?

Starlight Glimmer: I persuaded Witch Cinch to hand them over with a little leverage I have on her.

Indigo Zap: No way.

Starlight Glimmer: You see, I would do anything for my friends.

Sugarcoat: Wait. You didn't get these for us as a favor to join your "equality thing", did you?

Starlight Glimmer: Well that seems a bit harsh, don't you think?

Sour Sweet: So is it true? Did you really go to juvenile hall for three months?

Starlight Glimmer: Tragic, yes. But it's true, I'm afraid.

Lemon Zest: Wow. What did you do to end up in a place like that? Come on, tell us. Come on. Come on. Tell us. What'cha do? [She pokes Starlight's arm repeatedly.] What'cha do? What'cha do? What'cha do? What'cha do? What'cha do? What'cha d-? [Starlight swiftly grabs her finger, and proceeds to bending it.] AAHHH! UNCLE! UNCLE!

[She then lets go of her finger.]

Starlight Glimmer: Very well. You see, all I ever wanted was a nice peaceful place for everyone to be equals and good friends. So, I gathered up the neighborhood kids and told them the truth about the false promises and the consequences that life can give. Once they understood, they would leave their old lives behind and come live with me, in a quaint little village I made just for them in a secluded location. It was a safe haven for those who wish not to flaunt their special talents. I had to keep them under complete surveillance; to make sure no one inspires all sorts of free thinking. [chuckles] I even took a piece of wood I found and passed it off as something called "The Staff of Sameness". [chuckles] I can't believe they bought that. Those who don't would be disciplined. It was for their own good. It's quite a shame, really. I never got around to doing the electric shock collar treatment. Oh well. [Right now, the five girls start getting worried about Starlight.] In any case, those were the days. It was a perfect paradise, ready to allow others to make a pilgrimage to our town, until that dream was ruined.

Sunny Flare: Wha—What happened?

Starlight Glimmer: The adults were starting to get concerned. After a week of searching, they found our little village. I tried reasoning with them, the only way I know how, despite their disapproval. I almost had them convinced, until some of them got very nosey. They uncovered the inner workings of my methods, and exposed it to the villagers. They were surprised to see I went against what I taught them. I only did it for their sake, to keep our new lives in perfect harmony. The parents turned them against me. They called me "a fraud". They called me "a control freak". They called me "insane". After everything I've done for them, this is how they repay me? I freed them from their miserable lives, and they were willing to throw it all away because of other people. People like Abacus Cinch. I brought them friendship! I brought them equality! I created harmony!

Sour Sweet: Well I wouldn't blame them for it. You lied to them.

Starlight Glimmer: So what? E-Everything else I said is true! The only way to be happy is if we're all equal!

Sugarcoat: Except for you.

[Starlight fiercely turns to Sugarcoat with a loathsome look.]

Sunny Flare: Double Diamond was right about you.

[Starlight pauses and slowly turns to Sunny.]

Starlight Glimmer: Double Diamond? He's here?

Lemon Zest: Well yeah, he is; along with Sugar Belle, Night Glider, and Party Favor.

Sour Sweet: Lemon!

Lemon Zest: Oops…

Starlight Glimmer: [gasping with glee] Are they?! Oh my old friends! I missed them so much. And they remembered me. Did they say they missed me?

Sunny Flare: They told us you were insane.

Starlight Glimmer [scornful]: Oh. So they are still a bit sore about what happened. But not to worry; once they are reintroduced and reminded to the way things were then, they'll have to see once again how promising it is and how they are better off without their special gift. I lost everything that day. But soon, I will reclaim what was taken from me.

Sour Sweet: What are you saying? You're not thinking of turning Crystal Prep into another one of your "sanctuaries", are you?

Starlight Glimmer: And why not? I am familiar with this school's history. It has been nothing but a breeding ground for arrogant bullies and spoiled brats. But once my changes for this school have begun, things here will finally work out for the best, as soon as I get Cinch to see things my way. My attack on Canterlot High was just to get under her skin. That was just "Strike 2". She just made "Strike 1" at the Friendship Games. Just one more strike, and she's out. So, what do you say? Continue living under Cinch's thumb as miserable glory hogs, or you can join me and find a better path to true happiness.

Sunny Flare: I just have one question. Why us? I mean, out of all the students here Cinch got a file on, why did you ask for just the five of us?

Starlight Glimmer: I-I don't know. You were the first to ever approach me on my first day. I guess you're the closest thing I have to friends. So how about it? Join me and you will be the perfect people you want to be. We can help everyone get better too. We can have more friends. Isn't that what you all wanted?

[The Shadow Five are deeply hesitant on this matter, as Starlight waits for their answer.]

Sugarcoat: Why not?

Indigo Zap: What?!

Sugarcoat: Girl, think about it. We can finally live the lives we are meant to have. We will never have to fight anyone for anything again.

Sour Sweet: Yeah. It would be better for everyone if we would all just change. I want in.

Starlight Glimmer [cheerfully]: That's the spirit! Now I'm sure you won't reg—

Indigo Zap: Stop! Hold on! Girls, are you crazy? You can't give in to this madness.

Sunny Flare: I'm with Zap on this. All of this, it just feels so…wrong.

Sour Sweet: What? Sunny, we have a chance to fix the mistakes we made in the past. Don't tell me you're planning on going back.

Sunny Flare: I'm not. I'm just doing what I feel is right.

Sour Sweet: [sarcastically] Yeah, that's worked well for you so far.

[Sunny gets stunned.]

Sugarcoat: This is the only way.

Indigo Zap: You're not seriously gonna go through with this garbage, are you?

Sugarcoat: As if you even know what "garbage" looks like.

Lemon Zest [putting her hand on Sugarcoat's arm]: Dude, calm down. No need to get worked up about it.

Sugarcoat [knocking Lemon's hand off her arm]: Why don't butt out of this? You don't even understand how hopeless our condition has been, what with you always sticking your ears into those noise makers.

Lemon Zest: Oh yeah?! Well do you ever hear any of the stuff that comes out of your mouth?

Indigo Zap [to Sugarcoat]: Yeah! If you're unable to notice the useless babble you talk to make people miserable, it's really no surprise you would agree to this dribble.

Sunny Flare [to Sour Sweet]: I can't let you ruin your life like this.

Sour Sweet [to Sunny Flare]: My life's already ruined. How much worst can it get?

Sunny Flare: She'll use you. Can't you see it?

[Starlight looks in devastation, as the five girls continue to bicker amongst themselves. She is very upset to be watching Sunny Flare arguing with Sour Sweet, and Indigo Zap and Lemon Zest with Sugarcoat. As they continue yelling at each other, Starlight keeps looking at each of the girls, slowly getting angry from watching them fight. Then finally, she gets so fed up, she moves so swiftly in an instant. In just a moment, Starlight is standing there, breathing heavily, while the five girls are all lying on the floor, groaning in pain. The girls try sitting up, looking at Starlight with fright.]

Starlight Glimmer: This is what I was talking about. Different opinions lead to disagreements, which leads to conflict, which leads to hatred, which leads to misery. So, you still considering joining my cause now? [But Sunny Flare, Indigo Zap, and Lemon Zest seem concerned about it. Even Sugarcoat and Sour Sweet are having second thoughts. Starlight feels very disappointed.] So, that's how it is then. Some friends you'd turned out to be. But that's alright. Once everyone here has been converted, you won't have any choice. Only then will you be free from the ideals of false idols; like Cinch the Witch…or Twilight Sparkle. [The Shadow Five are staggered by that remark.] Oh yes. I've seen Ms. Sparkle at CHS, and I must say…I'm not impressed. I can see why she left. She doesn't want you to feel the shame.

[Sour Sweet gets irritated, she stands right back up.]

Sour Sweet: How dare you? Don't ever say that way about Twilight. She would never resort to this. If you were half the girl she is—

Starlight Glimmer: I'm not Twilight. I'm just the fool who took her place. Just as she replaced all of you.

[Starlight turns around and walks away, leaving Sour Sweet in a state of shock. The other four get up, and Lemon Zest is concerned for Starlight, and then runs after her.]

Lemon Zest: Yo! Wait! Starlight!

[Sour Sweet begins stammering, then releases a small scream in anger and storms off in the other direction.]

Sunny Flare: Sour Sweet! Wait!

[Sunny Flare runs after Sour Sweet, leaving Indigo Zap and Sugarcoat, looking depressed.]

[Sunny Flare catches up with Sour Sweet.]

Sunny Flare: Sour, wait! Sour! Look, I know Starlight was out of line, but you can't just walk away from this.

Sour Sweet: It's not her. It's everything! I can't take it anymore, Sunny.

Sunny Flare: Look, this is our last chance fix our mistakes, make it up to Twilight, and help Crystal Prep get out of its rut.

Sour Sweet: It's easy for you to wait.

Sunny Flare: NO I'M NOT! [The two stop walking.] I'm tired of waiting for things to get better. When we were at the Friendship Game, all I wanted was for everyone to play fair and follow the rules. When Cinch was convinced the Wondercolts were cheating, I actually believed her. When she asks us to cheat too, I thought I was doing what's right by getting even with them. But all I've done was turn Twilight into Midnight Sparkle. When Cinch started calling her "a monster", it makes me wonder about how she really feels about us.

Sour Sweet: Sunny, I'm tired of putting on a happy face when I know things aren't okay. You have no idea what I'd-

Sunny Flare: What?

Sour Sweet [tear forming in her eyes]: -What I'd give to be someone else.

[As Sour bursts into tears, Sunny puts her arms around her, embracing her.]

Sunny Flare: Don't worry, Sour. I'm here. We can get through this, together.

[The two just stand there, while Sour continues crying.]

[Starlight is marching with anger while Lemon Zest is still running after her.]

Lemon Zest: Hey, Starlight! Wait up! Will you just stop?

[Starlight gets aggravated; she turns around, stops, and faces Lemon Zest in front of a trophy case.]

Starlight Glimmer: What do you want?!

Lemon Zest: Yo man, that was uncalled for. You didn't have to do that. We were only trying to help you.

Starlight Glimmer: Help me?

Lemon Zest: Yeah, that's what we need to do now. You're one of us.

Starlight Glimmer: [chuckles] One of you? I came here to help you. I thought you were all like me. I don't know what I was thinking. Maybe I shouldn't have signed that enrollment sheet.

Lemon Zest: You just want everyone to get along. I understand.

Starlight Glimmer: No you don't! You don't understand, none of you do, you're Shadowbolts. [She points at the trophy case.] You're used to-to this life. Winning is the only thing that matters, when you think your better than everyone, not caring who you hurt, becoming the most hated school in existence, where nobody cares about you at all. [Right now, Lemon Zest gets stammered.] I thought this school was filled with people who just want to change. But now I see they are nothing more than a bunch of ungrateful degenerates that have to be forced to see wha—[She stops speaking, surprised to see Lemon Zest sniffling and tears building up in her eyes.] I-I'm sorry. I didn't mean to…I…it's just…eh…what I meant was-

[Lemon holds her hand up to signal Starlight to stop what she's saying.]

Lemon Zest: No, you're right. [She then looks at the trophy case, and sees the pictures of the Shadowbolts beating the Wondercolts time and time again.] Nobody cares about us. [Starlight feels awful about what Lemon said. Then Lemon Zest turns back to Starlight, smiling.] Whatever it is you're planning, I won't judge you. You have my support. All I can do is wish ya luck.

[Lemon holds out her hand for a shake. Starlight hesitates at first, but then shakes Lemon's hand anyway. Lemon Zest turns arounds and walks away, while Starlight looks at the trophy case one more time, and then leaves in the opposite direction.]

[EXT. Parking lot-Crystal Prep Academy-Sunset]

[Indigo Zap and Sugarcoat are sitting in the chair on the lawn with the umbrella tables. Sugarcoat seems most depressed, and Indigo is worried about her.]

Indigo Zap: Oh come on, SC. Everything Starlight said was just a load of hooey. Don't take it too seriously. We'll be just fine without any of that stuff. [There is no response from Sugarcoat.] Look, is this about what she said to you the other day? Like I said, you can't make a big deal out of it. [Still no response.] You really shouldn't blame yourself for what happened to Twilight at the Friendship Games, you know? Principal Cinch was just manipulating her, and got the rest of us to coach her into doing it. Okay? We put too much trust in her, but now it's over.

[After a few seconds of silence…]

Sugarcoat: You still don't get it, do you? It really was all our fault. We can blame Cinch for what happened, but it was our own actions. She didn't "use" us. She protected us from our own moral conscience, and we thanked her for it. I…liked it. Now do you see? How do you expect people to trust me if I can't even trust myself? I don't know who I am anymore.

Indigo Zap: Hey, we're both on the boat. During the games, I was trying to get Twilight all amped up for them. But all I've ever done was pushing her. I even pushed her to releasing all that magic and all it did was turn her into Midnight Sparkle. I still remember the frightened look on her face, her reaching out with her hand, and her cries for help. And what did I do then? Nothing. I could've helped her then. I could've stopped it.

Sugarcoat: There was nothing you could've done.

Indigo Zap: Is there? In the motocross event, you got attacked by those giant plant monsters, and I didn't help you. I wasn't thinking about you. I wasn't thinking about her. All I cared about was winning. We never cared what she wanted.

Sugarcoat: We were all not in the right mindset.

Indigo Zap: She was just an innocent kid, and I was her teammate. We would've been good friends, and I treated her like nothing. I'm supposed to support and help her, always have her back, and think about what's best for her. [Tears start building up in her eyes.] That's what I'm supposed to do!

[She wipes the tears from her eyes, as Sugarcoat gets up from her seat and walks over to Indigo. Sugarcoat puts her hand on her shoulder. As Indigo looks up, Sugarcoat gives her a comforting smile. Then Indigo returns a smile to her.]

[INT. Twilight's Room-Night]

[Twilight is at her desk, on her computer, with Spike sitting on the desk, next to her. There is a knock on her door, and Shining Armor comes in.]

Shining Armor: Twily, Dean Cadance told me what happened the other day. Are you alright?

Twilight Sparkle: Yes, I'm fine.

Shining Armor: I didn't think this Starlight girl would be capable of such a thing. I'm gonna march right down to Crystal Prep tomorrow and—

Twilight Sparkle: Wait! Hold on, big brother. There's no need to do that. It's really nothing to worry about.

Shining Armor: But, Twilight—

Twilight Sparkle: It's alright. I'm sure Cadance has everything under control. And besides, if that girl ever shows up again, I'm sure I can take care of myself.

Shining Armor: If you say so, Twily. I know you had trouble with your old school, but nothing like this has ever happened. You and Cadance have been pretty vague about it. You sure you don't want to talk about it? [He notices Twilight feeling uncomfortable about it.] Well if you ever want to talk about it, just let me know. Okay?

[His sister gives a nod. He scratches Spike behind the ears and leaves the room. Twilight sits back down on her chair and gets back on her computer.]

Spike: You know, you're gonna have to tell him sooner or later. About magic, Equestria, Midnight Sparkle…the fact I can talk.

Twilight Sparkle: I know, Spike. But for now, the fewer people who know, the better. Right now, we gotta find a way to help Starlight Glimmer.

Spike: Twilight, you've been at this all day. I know we should handle this issue with Starlight, but you seem pretty fixated. Why is this such a big deal to you?

Twilight Sparkle: I always knew this day would come, though I never intended it. The Starlight Glimmer from Equestria was convince to give up her evil ways by Princess Twilight, and was made her student. Now this Starlight is at Crystal Prep, my old school. If anybody can make sure she does the same, it's got to be me.

Spike: But don't you have Sunset and your friends to help you?

Twilight Sparkle: Well of course they can help, but I have to be the one to get through to Starlight. She's meant to be my student. [Smiles with confidence] If she has any hope at seeing the light, then I must live up to everything the other Twilight believes in.

Spike: So what are you doing exactly?

Twilight Sparkle: From what Princess Twilight told us about Starlight Glimmer, I think I know what might help us with that.

[She picks up her cellphone and enters in a number. She waits for it to stop ringing, and someone on the other side picks it up.]

Twilight Sparkle [on the phone]: […] Hello, my name is Twilight Sparkle. I'm sorry to have called you at this hour unannounced, but I just had to tell you, I've been reading up on your work about energy convergence and manipulation. And I must say, I found it very fascinating. […] Well you're very welcome. I like to discuss more about it with you, and I would love to exchange my own query on the subject. But before we go into any details, I want to ask one personal question. […] Do you know of a girl named Starlight Glimmer?

[Her computer reveals a picture of an orange-skinned boy with slightly messy vermilion hair, blue eyes, a goatee, and white framed glasses with circular lens.]

To Be Continued…

Sorry, folks. This chapter took a lot longer than anticipated.

It was really nice to bring back the Shadow Five. It's really great to add more to disposable characters and getting to know them better when they have so much potential that's being wasted. Now the Shadow Five are more conflicted, heat on both Principal Cinch and Starlight is bearing down on them more, and the Humane 7 are getting involved.

Till next time…