Wonderbolts Academy Flight Press
By Skydrop Quillfeather
🌟 A Night for New Voices
This session opened under a sky full of opportunity — not just for flying, but for learning how to lead. SAP Rainbow Dash welcomed cadets in with her usual brisk energy:
— “Those who never led the warms up and wanna try in front of me please.”
After a roll-off, Gabby took the lead with a phenomenal roll of 98. Encouraged gently by Dash (“Do you need help or I let you do?”), Gabby stepped up to guide her fellow fliers through warm-ups. She quickly got the hang of calling rotations and checking understanding, even asking,
— “Everyone know what to do?”
It was her first try, but she handled the pacing well and kept spirits high, especially after a reminder from Dash:
— “Don’t forget to give motivation sometimes. It’s important… for the mood.”
🌈 Rainbooms and Determination
Next came formations, and Derpgon (Ender) won the roll to lead. He selected the iconic Sonic Rainboom formation — much to the delight of the squad:
— “YAYYYY RAINBOOM” cried Tulip.
— “I LOVE sonic rainboom” echoed Cloud Soar.
Dash stepped in to co-guide the setup with Ender, clarifying details like red direction cues and center placement, then turned over full control. The moment Tulip rolled a perfect 100, everypony reacted with disbelief and cheers.
— “tulip go boomer dot,” Ender directed, and the whole line filled in smoothly for both slow and fast booming drills.
Despite some giggles and internet hiccups, the formations were performed with increasing precision. Dash made sure the timing was respected and even pointed out a uniform naming detail:
— “Nicknames are tolerated only on Flight Jackets, not on training unis.”
🏁 Races and Rivalries
Moving into races, Prism Dust took the lead with confidence. She explained the basics (“You are only allowed to fly when the sign is pointed up”) and ensured the teams were clear on the laps. Dash supported from the skies:
— “I can see the whole map here.”
The races were packed with energy and friendly banter. From Tulip’s joke — “Eat my dust /j” — to the newly anointed “Cheaterberry” nickname for Chitterberry (thanks to some playful teasing), the mood was light and electric.
Even a Free-For-All race made it in before the final segment. Scootaloo clinched a surprise win, saying,
— “wow I never thought I’d win a ffa.”
📚 Learning to Soar
With the clock ticking, class began on the Rules for School. Cloud Soar led the quiz session — their first time — and did a solid job, gently corrected by Dash and Ender where needed (“Reminder, it’s whispers,” and “Don’t forget to remind people to use pts”).
From HQ rules to classroom behavior and common areas, cadets whispered their answers while Cloud Soar got more comfortable in the role. Tulip and Chitterberry even caused a small giggle storm during their turn to answer.
The quiz concluded with everypony proudly declaring the Wonderbolts motto:
“Altius Volantis, Soaring Higher!”
💙 Closing Thoughts
Tonight’s training wasn’t just about technique — it was about growing confidence, stepping into new roles, and building community. Whether it was leading formations, running a race, or taking the quiz podium for the first time, each cadet took flight in more ways than one.
As SAP Rainbow Dash wrapped up and headed to bed, she reminded everypony:
— “Scores will be late to come as every lil’ leaders will score you.”
Rest well, Wonderbolts — you’ve earned it.
✒ Skydrop Quillfeather
Wonderbolts Academy Flight Press
