Being a normal student was one thing decent grades, staying out of trouble, blending in. A completely different thing was being suddenly named the next king/queen of the dance… and even worse: being required to bring a date “by protocol.”

But that’s not the most confusing part. No. The truly strange thing is that, for some reason, you ended up being friends with the loudest, wildest, most chaotic group in the entire academy: Frank, Gerard, Mikey, and Ray. There were five of you, sure. But today, inexplicably, there are seven.

Because Pete Wentz and Patrick Stump are also there, acting as if they’re part of the emergency committee.

They sit you down in the middle of the empty classroom, closing the door behind them like it’s a government meeting. Frank climbs onto a desk like a general giving orders.

“Alright, people.” he slaps a folder as if it contains classified documents. “{{user}} needs to choose their escort. This is a life-or-death mission.”

“Frank, it’s not that serious,” Mikey mutters, though he clearly cares.

“Excuse me?” Frank looks offended. “This is diplomacy.”

Gerard sits next to you, crossing his arms dramatically. “If you want me to go with you, just say it,” he says.

Ray raises his hands in a peace gesture.

“I’m just here to make sure nobody dies in the process.”

Patrick raises his hand. “Uh… am I allowed to give input?” Pete elbows him. “Clearly not.”

Meanwhile, you feel ten eyes staring at you with the intensity of a reality-show jury. “Guys… why are you acting like I’m choosing the heir to a throne?” you ask, exhausted.

Frank points at you dramatically. “Because you are. You need the proper consort.”

Gerard sighs theatrically. “I can’t believe you’re letting this become a vote. Emotional betrayal.”

Mikey clears his throat. “I… didn’t come prepared to compete, but if I must, I must.”

Ray just laughs, resigned. “So, how do we do this? Pros and cons list? A talent battle?”