Chapter 17: Friendship University

On a rocky plateau, Star Swirl writes a letter as he has a smile on his face.

"Dear Twilight and Chase, it is difficult to express how grateful I am to you for teaching me the power of friendship. You would think after a thousand years, there would be nothing left to yet, even a Pony as old as I can continue to be surprised by how much there is to know." Starswirl's voice said as he hikes on a trail leading to a high mountain, and then he looks back as his travel companion then drops on the snow.

He helps him as he removes his pack and helps him up. Star Swirl and his friend soon traveled up the mountain as they soon reached the summit and placed a flag.

On a river, Star Swirl is now rafting down a river with Tree Hugger. Then there was trouble as there was a waterfall ahead, but Star Swirl quickly teleports them to safety on a riverbank and the raft went over.

(Scene changes)

One day, at the School of Friendship, Twilight and Chase were reading letters and postcards from Starswirl regarding his travels.

"I hope you find these postcards enjoyable, and I look forward to seeing you again, though I can't say when my journey will be complete." Twilight reads a postcard from Star Swirl. "Your friend, Star Swirl."

Once done reading, Twilight placed the postcard on the window and placed some tape on it, which was filled with other postcards sent from Starswirl. Rarity, Jade, and Sunray with the alicorn couple at their office.

"Wow, Twilight. You sure enjoy his letters and postcards." Jade said amazingly to Twilight as her sister-in-law turned to her. "I guess with him learning about friendship, it sounds like he's taking it step by step."

"Yeah." Sunray added in agreement with a smile. "It must be fun to have all of the ponies admire him as a hero again after he's saved his reputation from all of the wrong doings he's done."

Chase chuckled in amusement at his younger siblings.

"Well, it was when he realized that Stygian just wanted to join them." Chase replied back with a smirk.

"It must be gratifying to have your idol writing to both of you about the friendship lessons he's learning," Rarity said.

"I'm not sure we'll ever get used to it. Of course, if he really wants to learn about friendship, he could just come to our school," Twilight replied and then the door opens as they turned.

"Professor Sparkle? Professor Chase Young? The mailpony just came with, uh, a few things," Cozy Glow said, revealing some wooden crates.

"Ooh! The sewing machines I ordered for my class!" Rarity replied, then dashed over to the crates.

Chase, Jade, and Sunray looked at her with unamused looks.

"Come on, Rarity. Can't you at least stop over doing the money we have? It's not pleasant for us." Chase said with a glare as Rarity turned to him indignantly.

"Now, now, Chase. I do have a quality to teach sewing class, which requires a lot of money to buy the best machines for the students." Rarity replied back proudly.

This of course left Chase, Jade, and Sunray to roll their eyes with a glare.

"These came, too. I wasn't sure what to make of them," Cozy Glow said, bringing out some fliers on her back.

Twilight uses her magic to bring the fliers to her and Chase as they read one while Rarity opens a crate revealing a sky blue sewing machine.

"These machines were costly, but I am quite certain the friendship lessons I can teach my students with them will be invaluable," Rarity said.

Twilight and Chase gasped at seeing one of the flyers.

"Oh, don't worry, darlings. I'll think of something. And I didn't use the school funds to buy these. I made the purchase entirely with my own bits," Rarity said.

"It's not that. It's this!" Twilight replied, showing her the flier.

"What's the matter, guys?" Jade asked her family with concern as she and Sunray joined them as Rarity removes the flier to look at it.

"'Why waste your time at a friendship school that's just a school? Learn everything they teach and more at Friendship University'?!" Rarity read.

Twilight, Chase, Jade, and Sunray were shocked at this.

*Main theme*

It wasn't long before Twilight, Chase, Rarity, Jade, and Sunray speed walked through the hallway, pondering about Friendship University.

"Who would open another friendship school?" Twilight asked.

"Oh, pfft! I'm sure it's nothing to worry about. You're the Princess of Friendship. What could this other school possibly offer?" Rarity said.

"I'm not sure about that," Chase replied.

"Yeah, it sounds like whoever is opening that school doesn't even know the concept of friendship." Jade added in agreement with her older brother as Sunray nodded as well.

The five of them were shocked as they stopped and noticed the Young Nine huddled up talking about Friendship University.

"It isn't just another friendship school. It's a university!" Smolder said.

"It says they teach the same lessons of competing schools in half the time. That's twice the learning!" Ocellus replied.

"And it's in Las Pegasus? If Professor Rarity lets us skip her sewing class, road trip!" Gallus added.

Korra, however, took one good look at the flier and was surprised by what she saw in the corner of the paper.

"Uh, you guys might wanna take a closer look at it." Korra said, gesturing to the paper as they noticed something that shocked them.

" 'No nonponies allowed' ?!" Sandbar asked in shock.

"What a rip off!" Gallus said angrily as he tore the flyer off along with his friends doing the same with angry looks.

Chase, Jade, Sunray, Twilight, and Rarity watched from the side as the alicorn stallion took one good look at the picture and saw the no creatures sign on it.

"Well, looks like Korra managed to see that picture in just one second." Chase said to his family and Rarity.

"I don't like it, guys. I wanna know who's behind it all." Jade said with a determined look on her face.

"Me too." Sunray said in agreement with a determined glare of his own.

"Yes. I think we need to look into this school," Rarity said.

"Good thinking," Chase replied in agreement.

(Scene changes)

Upon their arrival at Friendship University, Twilight and her team found something odd and confused about the university. The place looked more like a commercial building with book logo and the signboard of 'Friendship University' has the lighting bulbs around it. Along with them was Grazer as he heard the news as well.

"Thanks for coming with us, Grazer." Chase said to the dragon-turned-wingquin with a grateful smile.

"My pleasure, Chase. Infact, I've heard that your school might have some competition." Grazer replied back while glaring at the new 'school' disdainfully.

"I don't like to judge solely on appearances. But..." Rarity remarked in uncertainty and confusion, "what kind of friendship school is this?"

"Only the best friendship school in the west... and maybe all of Equestria!" A stallion called Polo Play replied, walking up to them before he entered the school.

Just as Polo Play went into the university, more ponies arrived and entered the university. Twilight and her team were completely shocked and surprised by it.

"That was unexpected," Grazer remarked in an uncertain tone, "Why would they be excited for this place?"

"I don't know, Grazer." Sunray replied back with a shrug. "Guess we have to find out."

Twilight, Chase, Jade, Sunray, Rarity, and Grazer marched and entered the university at once. And to their surprise, they found many more ponies gathered inside the grand hall while looking at the stage. Most of them chatted and talked about Friendship University.

"There's more ponies in here than at our whole school. Who is running this place?" Twilight asked in concern.

Suddenly, the hall's lights turned off and became dark. The ponies gasped in surprise and confusion as they wondered of what's really going on. Two ceiling spotlights shone around the stage, making everyone tense and excited for it.

"Welcome, friends! You are about to embark on a journey of amazing magnitude! One that will change your lives forever!" one stallion's voice spoke up.

"Prepare yourselves to embrace a new path and become students of..." another stallion's voice added.

"Friendship U!" Flim and Flam finished in unison, revealing themselves.

"Flim and Flam. Of course," Twilight said in disbelief.

"These guys just don't know when to quit," Chase added.

"It has to be these two?" Rarity sighed in disbelief.

[Flim]

f you're alone and you can't make friends

We understand your plight

[Flam]

Until now, there was just one way

Your friendships could take flight

[Flim]

There is a school real far away

That'll teach you what to know

But if you live here, you couldn't stay

[Flam]

You'd learn you have to go-o-o-o

Ponies awed disappointingly and sympathetically about it. They too feel the same way for leaving their own home to go and study Friendship Studies at School of Friendship. However, Twilight and her team rolled their eyes in disbelief and annoyance.

Instead of continuing with sober singing, both Flim and Flam singing calmly and sincerity as they're convincing their customers and newcomers that they have a way for them to stay and study Friendship Studies.

[Flim]

Now, there is an alternative to all of that adversity

[Flam]

Not just a school, I'll have you know

Flim and Flam jumped from the stage. The ponies moved aside and letting them to moved out and singing proudly and happily, advertising and convincing them about Friendship University is the best place to stay and learn, instead of going to Ponyville Town.

[Flim and Flam]

But a whole university

At Friendship U, our aim is true

In a city, not some backwater

You'll learn the things you need to know

At our new alma mater

Flim and Flam returned to the stage's podium stand. The slim brother exclaimed, "That's it, everypony, you heard correctly!"

"Friendship U, the one and only university of friendship!" Flam agreed happily.

"To my hoof, fakers," Chase remarked dryly as Jade and Sunray glared at the two as well.

Annoyed by his remark, Flim and Flam decided to ignore him as Chase matters little to them. Flim pulled down the chalkboard with graphs, charts and bar about how effective and good their Friendship University is.

[Flim]

As you can see, we're a success

By any kind of stat

Twilight was not convinced by it. Instead of worried and scared by her, Flim and Flam smirked slyly as they mocked her amusingly and playfully. They claimed that she has come to give her bless and support for their teachings of Friendship. They approached and talked with some ponies about how good the Friendship University is.

[Twilight]

That may be so, for all I know

But I still smell a rat

[Flam]

Everypony, lookie here

That other school's headmare and headstallion

[Flim]

Their presence is a testament

To the mutual respect...

[Flim and Flam]

...we sha-a-a-are

"What?! No, it isn't!" Twilight protested.

"Why you little…" Chase said angrily.

[Flam]

It really is the final piece

To make our work complete

[Flim]

To have the Friendship Princess and Prince

Bless our school is such a treat

[Flam] We're so honored!

[Flim and Flam]

At Friendship U, we teach to you (and you!)

All of our friendship knowledge

You'll learn it all in half the time

At the one and only friendship college

"Somehow, I doubt that anypony can learn friendship in half the time." Chase said dryly.

Flam scoffed while holding Chase close to him.

"Our coursework is so accelerated, to take longer would be a crime!" Flam said with a sly smile.

[Flim]

The lessons that we teach have been

Reviewed and checked and edited

[Flam]

Which might explain why our new school's

Flim and Flam continued convincing and talking more ponies to join the Friendship University to study and learn more of friendship than the School of Friendship. The ponies are convinced and believed that this university is a good place to study than going to a far away school.

[Flim and Flam]

About to be accredited

At Friendship U, oh, yes, it's true

Even the Princess and Prince of Friendship agrees

The only place in Equestria

To give out friendship degrees

Yeah!

Many more of ponies joined in as they all chanted happily and wildly. They even performed cheerleading performance for Friendship University.

[Ponies]

Friendship U!

Friendship U!

Friendship U!

Friendship U!

Friendship U!

Friendship U!

"That's it, everypony! Let's hear it! Tell us again why it's the best!" Flim encouraged proudly,

[Ponies]

It's the only university of Friendship U!

[Flim and Flam]

Yeah!

"Boring…" Sunray remarked dryly while crossing his hooves. Flim and Flam were annoyed by his remark. He scoffed, "So you guys are the ones who have been doing all of the nasty things to Applejack and her family. I see you haven't change at all."

"Yeah, neither can we." Jade said as he and Chase glared at the two brothers as well.

"And somehow we doubt that for this place." Chase added sternly. "Who would accredit this place?"

"Why, the EEA, of course." A familiar stern yet calm and firm voice spoke.

The voice shocked and alerted Twilight and her friends. They all turned and looked back, where they found Chancellor Neighsay emerged out from the crowd. He smiled calmly yet proudly as if he outdone himself with latest work.

"Chancellor Neighsay?!" Twilight exclaimed in disbelief.

"Oh great! Look at what the unicorn stallion dragged in." Chase said as he, Jade, and Sunray glared at Chancellor Neighsay.

"It just had to be you again." Sunray added angrily.

"Hello, Master Chase and Princess Twilight. We meet again." Chancellor Neighsay greeted dryly.

"The feeling is mutual." Twilight said as she glared at Chancellor Neighsay.

"Somehow, we figured you'd be behind this joke." Chase said sternly. "What do you think you're doing here anyway?"

"On the contrary, this isn't a joke. It's the reality," Chancellor Neighsay said calmly with a smile, "Something that you all have failed to fulfill the EEA's requirement."

"And you think this place is better?" Chase asked dryly, "Because this place is perfect for 'ponies only and no creatures."

"Do not mock me, Chase." Chancellor Neighsay firmly contradicted, "The Equestria Education Association has taken an interest in institutions that teach friendship in a pony-first environment. Surely you didn't think your school has a monopoly on the concept?"

"Well, they did write the book on it." Rarity answered confidently as Chancellor Neighsay rolled his eyes in unamusement.

"Ah, yes. How to teach friendship to creatures who will one day use it as a weapon against us." Chancellor Neighsay remarked.

"How could they use friendship as a weapon?!" Twilight questioned in annoyance.

"Do you really believe they could do that?!" Chase demanded angrily.

"You tell me. It's your book." Chancellor Neighsay retorted. He turned and looked at Grazer, "Your Quinkan friend is the perfect example of what he did to your friends back in Ponyville."

"For your info, Chancellor Neighsay, he wasn't in control of his force Zhao had created him!" Sunray said in Grazer's defense as the former dragon-turned-Wingquin glared at Chancellor Neighsay with a snarl.

"Is that so? Fascinating that you would defend this… monster." Chancellor Neighsay said with scoff as Grazer growled at him angrily.

"I don't appreciate you mocking my friends with that reckless behavior, Chancellor. And if I were you, I would watch your manners." Grazer said, pushing Chancellor Neighsay aside, making the unicorn stallion glare at him.

"Oh, I'll teach you some manners when I'm out of here." Chancellor Neighsay said bitterly.

"That's enough, Grazer. He's not worth it." Chase said as he, Jade, and Sunray calmed Grazer down.

"And besides, Chancellor Neighsay should know better for causing an international incident with our allied creatures," Twilight said firmly and dryly. She glared at him, "Princess Celestia will not tolerate this if you keep on doing it again."

"I am aware of my consequences. I do not need a reminder. Thank you very much." Chancellor Neighsay said as he grunted.

"Still a jerk as before," Chase remarked dryly. He scoffed amusingly, "If Bumi was here, he would give you a piece of his mind. Painfully."

"Unfortunately, he has an important task to be concerned with. The three White Lotus leaders will not be here," Chancellor Neighsay said dryly yet relieved. He looked around at his surroundings, "Meantime, this university appears to be a promising option for ponies who'd prefer to stick to the EEA book on the subject."

"Then, you must be more foolish than I realized," Grazer mocked dryly and sarcastically. He turned and glared suspiciously at Flim and Flam, "These two are obviously up to something."

"Well, that certainly wasn't friendly, coming from a 'reformed' Quinkan monster." Flim replied as the twins made sad faces, making Chase, Jade, and Sunray glare at them as they knew they were faking it.

"If I remembered correctly the last time I saw you both, you tried to ruin Sweet Apple Acres for good until Stan Hoofington came to save the Apples." Chase said with a glare, making Flim and Flam glare at him annoyingly.

"It seems that Princess Twilight's beloved husband and Elite Ninja leader would behave differently." Chancellor Neighsay remarked. He hummed, "Interestingly. Since the School of Friendship is uncredited, I suspected that his wife is here to undermine the competition."

The ponies gasped in shock and disbelief to hear such a thing. Twilight looked worried yet embarrassed to be accused of undermining.

Just before she insulted, Chase put a hoof on his wife's shoulder and gestured to her to let him handle this.

"Oh, really?" Chase asked before taunting with a smirk, "If we want to undermine this school, we would have mocked and trashed you and your place. The EEA has proven themselves to be incompetent and corrupt politicians, who want to save their faces and reputation. Not bother to care about right and wrong. Chancellor Neighsay is the perfect example."

Hearing this made Chancellor Neighsay to glare at him furiously.

"Why you insolent little…" Chancellor Neighsay said angrily when Twilight cleared her throat as he turned to her.

"Chancellor Neighsay, I wouldn't do something irrational and foolish. You're in public, not in the office to tell my husband off." Twilight said with a firm professional look while standing next to Chase.

The ponies chattered and muttered in concern as they talked about Chancellor Neighsay's behavior while wondering if his decision to accredit Friendship University is true or not. Seeing this, he was embarrassed about it. He muttered and grumbled angrily about it.

"Now, now, fillies and gentlecolts." Flam spoke up calmly as he levitated and set up the table with a portion of registration papers, "No need to start the fight. Let's show our guests just how friendly we are by signing up for some classes!"

Ponies cheered happily as they gathered and lined up at the registration table. They're now signing up for Friendship University's classes.

Flim turned and looked at Chancellor Neighsay.

"Why don't I show you around?" Flim proposed as Chancellor Neighsay turned to him.

"Yes, please do," Chancellor Neighsay agreed dryly before glancing angrily at Twilight, her family, and her friends, "I would like to be away from my humiliation…"

Then Flim gave Chancellor Neighsay the tour Twilight, her family, and her friends looked at each other as they firmly nodded that they need to check out on this.

"Thanks, Chase." Twilight said to her husband with a smile before she became worried. "But you need to be careful of what you said. I don't want you to get into trouble. It will ruin your reputation."

"I don't care. I won't let him talk bad about you." Shadow Dragon said firmly.

"I agree." Grazer added with a nod. "Chancellor Neighsay's slander and insults to us and School of Friendship won't help him to gain good publicity. If we find the evidence, he would feel more humiliated and embarrassed."

"Let's follow them now." Twilight suggested.

As Flim was giving the tour for Chancellor Neighsay around the Friendship University, Twilight and her team were able to keep up with them.

"I'm sorry, but approval from the EEA won't convince us that this school is what you promise," Twilight said.

"Neither this convinces us," Jade said dryly, "I still don't believe that anypony like you would agree with this false school."

"And what would it take to convince you both?" Flim asked.

"Well, some ponies whose opinion I respect, for one." Twilight said calmly and confidently, "And I am confident that Chancellor Neighsay's cannot be trusted."

That caused Chancellor Neighsay to groan in frustration.

"I hope you are not referring to Pakku. He has other things to do at the moment with his clan." Chancellor Neighsay said firmly.

"Maybe so. But at least, he's not a corrupt and racist jerk like you, sorry wannabe politician." Chase remarked mockingly.

"I watched that tone if I were you. I do not tolerate it." Chancellor Neighsay said as he growled.

"Go ahead and try it, impostor." Chase dared sternly.

Chancellor Neighsay was about to scold Chase, but was halted by Flim.

"Now, now. No need to start the fight. We're here on a tour of Friendship University." Film said as he turned and looked at the room. He smiled, "I have somepony, who can convince you otherwise."

Flim opened the classroom's door. It revealed a familiar figure, who was studying and writing down on the papers, which involved Friendship. This shocked and surprised everypony to gasp while looking at him.

"Twilight?" Starswirl asked in surprise. "Chase?"

"What the heck?" Chase asked in disbelief.

"Uh-oh," Rarity said.

"Oh no." Jade said with worry.

"Star Swirl? What are you doing here?" Twilight asked as she, Chase, Jade, Sunray, Rarity, and Grazer approached him.

"Why, studying friendship at Flim and Flam's wonderful school!" Starswirl replied.

"Oh, please. I think I know a disguise when I see one," Rarity said, not buying it. "Take off that ridiculous beard... FLAM!"

Just before Starswirl could say anything, Rarity used her magic levitation to pull the beard very hard, making the ancient wizard screamed in pain. Everypony and Flim looked worried and concerned as they had the feeling that he might be real as Flam arrived.

"How's it going in here?" Flam asked calmly.

Everyone turned and found Flam just entered the classroom. This shocked and surprised Rarity to dispel her magic, releasing his beard.

"It-It's really me." Starswirl groaned while rubbing his face.

"Rarity, don't ever do that again!" Chase said to Rarity sternly as she smiled apologetically and embarrassingly while Chancellor Neighsay approached Starswirl.

"I've heard rumors you've returned, but I didn't believe it until now. A pony of your stature studying here is a promising sign." Chancellor Neighsay said in surprise before he turned to Flim and Flam happily as he added. "I'll need to observe a few more classrooms. But from what I've seen so far, I can all but guarantee complete and unreserved EEA accreditation. I shall take my leave before the princess, the prince, and their friends here make even greater fools of themselves."

"We could say the same thing for you. I can promise you that accredit this fake is not gonna help you get a good reputation. It's gonna make you the worst." Chase said with a scoff.

Chancellor Neighsay groaned in annoyance as he couldn't stand the insult. Regardless, he immediately leaves and heads off to inspect the classroom.

"I... I don't understand. Why would you come here and not our school?" Twilight asked.

Starswirl looked around with a nervous look before he cleared his throat.

"My travels brought me to Las Pegasus. I didn't come for the school, but Flim and Flam convinced me to try it out," Starswirl replied.

"You can't trust Flim and Flam! They tried to con the Apples out of their farm! They sold fake health tonic! They run a resort in Las Pegasus!" Twilight said.

"Technically, our resort is a legitimate business," Flam pointed out.

"I spent a thousand years thinking the worst of a "bad" pony. You taught me to look for the best in him. Whatever Flim and Flam's past may be, starting this school shows they want to change for the better," Starswirl said.

"You can't trust Flim and Flam!" Twilight insisted in concern, "They tried to con the Apples out of their farm! They sold fake health tonic! They run a resort in Las Pegasus!"

"Technically, our resort is a legitimate business." Flam corrected dryly.

"Correction. You don't own the resort." Jade said dryly, annoying Flim and Flam. He continued, "I thought you two learned your lesson after that issue with Gladmane after he tried to see the place for Kai so that the Quinkan could turn it into a training ground."

"Of course we do." Flim replied back annoyingly. "Your family and other friends were there since they stopped him."

Chase glared at the two brothers as Starswirl approached Twilight.

"I spent a thousand years thinking the worst of a 'bad' pony. You taught me to look for the best in him. Whatever Flim and Flam's past may be, starting this school shows they want to change for the better." Starswirl said calmly.

"I wish Chase and I could believe that," Twilight replied.

"Twilight, Chase, I promise I'll visit your school soon." Starswirl assured Twilight and Chase. He looked at Flim and Flam, "Flim and Flam, you do not mind if I join them for lunch. This study has made me very hungry now."

Flim and Flam nodded happily.

"No problem. Just make sure they don't cause the problem." Flim said with a smile.

Starswirl nodded as he guided Twilight and her team out of the class. Unknown to them, they were being watched by a student who was hiding behind a wall. He picked a commlink out as he made the contact.

"Stan, this is Woody Woodchuck. They're here." Woody reported, "Just as you planned…"

"Good. Keep an eye on them. Help them in any way you can until you find what those troublemakers were really after…" Stan Hoofington's voice said through the commlink.

(Scene changes)

Starswirl led the six out of the Friendship University. They all headed straight to the café for lunch and drinks. And at the same time, they were also discussing and talking as well.

"Now, this hits the spot. Never thought this era's food could be as good as my time," Starswirl remarked calmly with a sigh after eating spaghetti. He then noticed Twilight's concerned looks. He asked, "Twilight? You're still not upset about not coming to your school?"

"A bit…" Twilight admitted in an upset tone. She then asked, "Starswirl, you don't think they're running an actual friendship school, do you?"

Starswirl looked around at his surroundings as he was making sure that he wasn't followed or even eavesdropped by someone else. He gestured to his friends to come near. Twilight, her family, and her friends were confused and uncertain by his gesture. They obeyed and moved close towards him as they wondered why he was secretive.

"No, Twilight, I don't." Starswirl answered calmly.

Everyone was surprised and confused by the wizard's answer.

"What?" Chase asked in disbelief.

"Then why are you here?" Sunray asked the wizard with a curious look.

"I came here to investigate." Starswirl answered with a suspicious look he sent to Friendship University.

"Really?" Rarity asked in surprise.

Starswirl nodded,

"Yes. The real reason why I was here was because Princess Celestia, Pakku, and I received the unanimous tip about this university. It claimed that Flim and Flam built this place to get more good reviews and support of ponies, as well as making a terrible point of your school for housing creatures. I also heard that someone has stolen and delivered one of your Friendship Studies to them to make this happen." Starswirl explained further.

"W-What?! Who?! Why?!" Chase asked seriously. "That can't be."

"Which is why we have to investigate," Starswirl said seriously and firmly.

But Twilight looked worried and scared.

"But we can't go poking around the school. Everypony'll think Chase and I are still just 'threatened by the competition'. And I don't want to risk you to do this, otherwise it will ruin your reputation. They will think that you work for me." Twilight protested, but Starswirl smiled confidently.

"Do not worry, Twilight. I'll be fine. They still think of me as a model student and supporter of this place. They won't think twice of me being a threat to them. But how do the rest of you investigate without anyone recognizing and spotting you?" Starswirl asked the others.

Chase, Jade, and Sunray smirked in reply.

"Hey, we're ninjas. The best way to do that is to use the art of disguise and deception." Sunray answered confidently.

Knowing what they were thinking, Rarity smiled slyly.

"I like what you three are thinking." Rarity said with a grin.

(Scene changes)

Rarity guided and led the rest of her team to a boutique, which was located two blocks away from the Friendship University. Rarity selected and picked the clothes for her friends to try while Starswirl and Grazer were sitting down as the wizard was reading the 'Mare in the Moon' and the 'History of the Quinkan' story, which scared yet intrigued him to learn more about it.

After 15 minutes of choosing and wearing their clothes, Twilight and her friends emerged out and revealed their own disguises.

Rarity is wearing a yellow shirt with pink blouse, blue shorts, blue cap covering her messy yet styled mane and her left back leg was tied with blue ribbon.

Chase wore a black T-shirt that covered his wings with torn sleeves, black jacket, black shorts, and worn sunglasses.

Sunray worn a crimson shirt and pants with the tag, white hooded coat.

Jade wore a blue t-shirt with an ocean wave tag on the front, and shorts with some sunglasses.

"Very interesting." Grazer said with an amazed look.

"Oh. How intriguing," Starswirl remarked in surprise.

"In these disguises, we could pass as students at our own school." Rarity said as she smiled.

"Then, I supposed we're ready," Chase said firmly and calmly.

"I don't know, Rarity." Twilight said in concern from the dressing room as Rarity cleared her throat,

"Ah-ah. What did I say about using our real names?" Rarity asked.

Just as the dressing room's door opened, Twilight emerged from it. She wore an eyepatch and a sticky note on her flank.

"Sorry, 'Plainity'. But I'm pretty sure this isn't enough of a disguise." Twilight said as she rolled her eyes.

"I'm afraid I concur with Twilight. This kind of disguise is too obvious and ridiculous…" Starswirl said as he nodded in agreement.

"Looks like we're on the same page," Chase said calmly.

Just before anypony could say anything, Chase pushed and moved Twilight back into the dressing room. He helped Twilight to change her disguise for a better one.

A few seconds later, he came back out, still in his disguise, and Twilight followed.

Instead of the eyepatch and sticky note, she was now wearing glasses, a white shirt that covered her wings, and a pair of pants. Her mane was even tied in a ponytail.

Everypony looked surprise of what they're looking at.

Shadow Dragon moved the long-rounded mirror before his wife.

"What do you think, honey?" Chase asked with a smile.

Looking at her mirror carefully, Twilight couldn't help, but smile happily.

"It's perfect! Thanks, sweetheart." Twilight said as she gave Chase a loving nuzzle, making her husband return the favor and Rarity looked disbelieved yet surprised.

"Too perfect." Rarity said in disbelief.

"Honestly, Rarity, what were you thinking?" Jade asked in annoyance as Rarity rolled her eyes in irritation.

"I was trying to make the disguise so obvious that Flim and Flam won't suspect it. They will think a smart pony like her would think something more complicated and subtle." Rarity replied back, but Starswirl shook his head in disagreement.

"It's too obvious, Rarity. Flim and Flam won't fall for that kind of trick. I could tell that difference."

"Everypony has to be critic…" Rarity grumbled. She cleared her throat, "Okay, everyone. I've read enough Shadow Spade to know the key to going undercover is rehearsing your backstory." She blandly introduced herself, "I'm 'Plainity'. I love bland old normal stuff. No frills for me. What's your name?"

"Mine will be Sci-Twi. I love science and math for friendship." Twilight said calmly.

"Call me 'Shadow'. The baddest but coolest type of boy in town." Chase introduced himself.

"My name is 'Blaze'. Known to have quite a temper and love to write graffiti." Sunray introduced himself.

"And I'm 'Cool Breeze'. Very kind hearted and beautiful." Jade introduced herself with a smile.

Starswirl then thought of something as he turned to Grazer.

"What about you, Grazer?" Starswirl asked the Winguin curiously. "How will you disguise yourself?"

Grazer smiled before he concentrated his powers as his eyes turned grey before he became in invisible.

"This power was given to me after Zhao dumped me into the Sanzu River. My invisibility power will help me." Grazer said as the others were surprised by this.

"Alright. Let's go." Chase said as he and Twilight the others to Friendship University. "Now, how should we start our investigation?"

Twilight hummed thoughtfully before she turned to the others.

"I think we should split up. Rarity will enroll in some classes and find out what they're actually teaching. Grazer, Chase, Jade, Sunray, and I will look around and see what we can find." Twilight said to her family and friends as Starswirl nodded.

"I will join with you as well," Starswirl suggested. Everyone looked at him. He continued, "To ensure that you two don't try anything foolish."

"Foolish?" Twilight asked in disbelief before she scoffed with blowing a raspberry, "As if! I mean why would I do anything so foolish? It's not like I would just go on my own to infiltrate Flim-Flam's office for investigation and trying to find out if they're scamming until I get caught in picture for trying to sabotage. Yeah. I'm not trying to do anything foolish that will get us into trouble."

Everyone looked surprised and shocked by Twilight's rant as her tone and attitude have convinced them that she needs someone to be there with her.

"Definitely you need to be with her," Chase remarked. "But just to be safe, I'll go check out the office while you guys look around the area."

"Agreed. I'll make sure she won't do anything foolish during our investigation." Starswirl said in agreement.

"If you're done talking, let us go now," Sunray said impatiently.

"Yes. Sunray, we're going now." Jade said with an annoyed sigh.

Chase, Twilight, their family, and friends headed off and returned to the Friendship University to continue their investigation as well as also trying to be avoided from getting caught by the Flim-Flam Brothers.

(Scene changes)

Inside Friendship University, with Starswirl joining them, Twilight and her friends split up and continued their investigation. Both Rarity and Sunray are in the Generosity Class, along with other students. While studying and checking out on their Friendship Studies, Flam dashed in while sliding down dashingly and stylishly.

"Welcome, newest students!" Flam greeted enthusiastically, "Let's dive right in, shall we? One of the most important elements of friendship is being thoughtful. True or false?"

Most of the students enthusiastically and excitedly raised their hooves while chattering eagerly. Sunray scoffed while leaning against the chair as he ignored everything. Flam hummed thoughtfully while looking at the students carefully to pick for an answer. He eventually picked Rarity to answer.

Rarity cleared her throat as she answered in deep yet casual voice.

"If by 'thoughtful' you mean 'generous', I'd say true." Rarity said.

Flam was surprised and amazed as he laughed.

"Correct! It was a trick question. Very impressive, Miss...?" Flam asked, wanting to know what her name was.

"Plainity." Rarity introduced herself.

"Well, well, well, Miss Plainity, keep it up and you'll be ready for our next level in no time!" Flam remarked with pride and cockiness.

The students awed in amazement and surprised as they all chattered about her. Rarity was surprised by the attention.

Thinking of the plan, she realized that if she could answer any kind of Friendship Questions and done all kinds of errands, she can access to Flim-Flam Brothers' office and find the evidence of their scam. Sunray rolled his eyes about Rarity getting attention, though he played along as he believed that this could help their investigation.

"Now, let's see if you can demonstrate for the class." Flam said cockily as he approached and sat down on his seat, "What's something generous you could do for… me right now?"

Rarity gave some thoughts of what she can do to 'demonstrate' generosity. She gasped at the idea. She brought a pillow and a bowl of grapes. She placed the pillow on the back of Flam while feeding him the grape. Flam was impressed.

"Class, Plainity here is now my star pupil. If any of you want a chance at studying with Star Swirl, I'd take notes on her every action." Flam said, but then glared at Sunray, who was slacking and lying on the chair. He scoffed, "And pay no attention to him. He's the best example of a 'lazy' student."

The students obliged and wrote down on what Rarity has done so far. And at the same time, Sunray was scoffing and laying down on his chair while secretly filming a camera on the event, which would make good evidence to turn against them. He believed that they really have no interest of teaching students, but using them for their greedy pocket.

(Scene changes)

Twilight, Chase, Jade, and Starswirl were at the Loyalty Class, along with the group of students. And surprisingly, Twilight, Jade, and Chase's disguises managed to fool everypony, including Flim and Chancellor Neighsay.

As Flim was teaching them about 'loyalty', Chancellor Neighsay was there to oversee and check on their progress.

"Now class, this study is very important for you all to learn and understand carefully because 'loyalty' concept is very tricky and challenging," Flim said calmly and sincerely. He cleared his throat, "While it's important that we have to help each other and be there for them as well, we should also ensure treated each other fairly and kindly. Otherwise, bad things could happen to us or them."

Recalled of the event for turning on his own best friend, Starswirl sighed.

"Thus, the bonds of fellowship will be broken and lost forever. Will never be forgotten and never heal." Starswirl said outloud.

Jade, Chase, and Twilight were completely aware of Starswirl's talk as he was talking about Stygian's Case.

"Correct, Mr. Starswirl. So, be sure that you don't mess this up or else you might end up like Pakku Shisho." Flim confirmed calmly. The students chattered and muttered in confusion and concern about why would Flim say that. He continued, "Why him? Because Pakku is known for only caring about his clan rather than join any events at the time."

Twilight became concerned about that.

"Professor Flim, any idea of why he would do such a thing especially they were so loyal to him?" Twilight asked calmly, to which Flim shrugged.

"No one knows, Sci-Twi. One thing for certain is that Pakku cared about fulfilling his ambition and wanted to get out of the Underground since he as well as his clan members were turned into monsters by Zhao." Flim explained. He feigned a sigh of 'hurt'.

Twilight, Jade, and Chase glared at him for insulting Pakku.

"I am certain that he has his own reason to do so," Starswirl suggested.

Chancellor Neighsay scoffed arrogantly.

"The reason is very obvious. He nearly wanted power and world domination. Everypony knows that. He is no hero. He is still considered a villain, even if he was still a Quinkan monster." Chancellor Neighsay said indignantly.

"Can you be certain of that?" Chase demanded with his narrowed angry eyes, "Are you even sure that he's the traitor?"

Chancellor Neighsay glared back.

"I am certain. Unlike me, I am very loyal to Princess Celestia. I would rather fight the creatures than ally with them because they're a threat to our society. They and us have nothing in common." Chancellor Neighsay said sternly.

"If that is true…" Jade said dryly.

The school bell rang loudly, signaled the recess time. Flim and Chancellor Neighsay immediately exited out of the class, followed by the students. Twilight, Chase, Starswirl, and Jade remained behind as they had a discussion.

"I can tell that you're bothered by Pakku," Starswirl said calmly.

"I just can't believe they would insult one of the greatest jiu jitsu masters in a long time." Chase said angrily. "Do they even know how long they've been trapped underground?"

"Wrong, Chase," Starswirl disagreed firmly. Chase looked at him. He continued, "While he and the rest of his clan were Quinkan monsters before, it was obvious that Zhao was the one who put all of those ponies under his control."

"I'm worried that would destroy his reputation and ponies would think otherwise." Twilight said in concern,

Jade shook her head.

"He'll be fine, Twilight. And besides, Pakku hardly cared about reputation because his main concern is to protect order and peace, especially threats from the Quinkan." Jade said to her sister-in-law with a confident look.

Starswirl nodded in agreement.

"Indeed. His own homeland, some of his trusted allies like me, and even Celestia and Luna knew him and his intentions well thanks to you and your family after your adventure to the Underground. And he's not afraid to fight and do what is right. He's doing this for us. He'll be fine." Starswirl said confidently and calmly.

"Yeah. He won't go down so easily," Chase said confidently and calmly. Twilight smiled in relief to hear it as she kissed her husband on the cheek. He gestured at the gate, "Come on. Let's go and find out what scams they're planning. I'll go to the office. You guys find out from others. Check on Grazer, Rarity, and Sunray."

Twilight nodded,

"Okay. Watch yourself and don't do anything stupid." Twilight said quietly.

Chase gave the confident smirk to ensure her that he won't. He headed off to Flim-Flam Brothers' office while Starswirl, Jade, and Twilight talked with the students about Friendship University, and also checked on Grazer, Rarity and Sunray's investigation.

(Scene changes)

Shadow Dragon arrived at Flim and Flam's office. Before entering it, he looked around as he wanted to make sure that no one spotted him. He then looked inside as he found the office was completely dark and empty. He smirked slyly that he could sneak in and investigate.

Just as he entered the office, Chase looked around his surroundings as he was searching for clues and information that involved of the scam or even the missing Friendship Studies. He found some documents and leaflets that involved of 'The Element of Laughter and its applications', 'consultancy leaflet' and 'Friendship University's Objective'. The investigation frustrated and annoyed Chase Young.

"Oh man." Chase said as he grunted in frustration. "Where is the proof that it's all a scam?"

"There isn't any!" Flam's voice exclaimed.

Just before he could do anything, the clap of hooves that activated and turned on the lights. Chase turned and looked at the entrance, where he found Flim and Flam stood before him. They all smirked slyly and amusingly. Flim used his magical levitation to remove the disguise while Flam used the camera to take a picture of Chase.

Flam has the picture of Chase snooping in the office as he groans.

"Not exactly the picture we're looking for." Flam said in annoyance as Flim nodded.

"Indeed, brother of mine. We were hoping Twilight to be here but not you." Flim said while glaring at Chase.

"Is that so?" Chase mocked with a glare, "Sorry to disappoint you, guys. So, what do you hope to accomplish in this?"

"Isn't that obvious?" Flam asked amusingly while showing the photo of Chase snooping around the office, "We were hoping to take a picture of your wife, so everypony will recognize the Princess of Friendship sneaking into our office."

"I can see the headline now! 'Princess of Jealousy! Twilight Sparkle Bent on Ruining Her Competition!'" Flim said with a smirk.

"So sad. A news story like that would destroy your wife's reputation. Nopony will want to go to your school after that." Flam said with a mocking smile.

"Just wait until the papers get a hold of this!" Flim said slyly.

"'Princess Unhinged!' It'll be the talk of Equestria!" Flam said with a mischievous grin.

Unfazed and unimpressed, Chase continued to glare at the two con-artists.

"Am I supposed to be worried about this? How would you know that I wouldn't do something you feared?" Chase asked firmly.

"Please. What can you possibly do?" Flim scoffed arrogantly.

"Indeed. Fighting and punching us won't get you anywhere." Flam said as he nodded amusingly, but Chase didn't back down.

"That was pathetic and petty of you for pulling this stuff," Chase remarked sarcastically and dryly, annoying the brothers. He questioned, "What exactly is this about? I doubt that you guys have any interest in teaching friendship to ponies. What are you really after? I also doubt that Chancellor Neighsay is behind this too."

"You guessed right that he's not quite in this." Flim said with a smirk. Chase was surprised. He explained, "Well, let's just say that we have some common goal."

Flam crossed his hooves.

"Indeed. You will regret for what you have done to us after you brought those health inspectors to Sweet Apple Acers. And believe us, pal. A perfect payback." Flam said with a sly grin.

Instead of annoyed by their pettiness, Chase smirked slyly.

"I see now. You guys aren't just petty. You're pathetic, cowardly, and impressively stupid for using the same tricks to trick ponies and getting greedy hooves on money, without realizing the trouble you both have gotten into or even cared about ponies especially if it's family like you two." Chase said with a smirk, making Flim and Flam gasp in shock as they were offended.

"You dare?!" Flam asked in anger.

"Yes, I dare," Chase said dryly and firmly, "You guys never learn your lessons. Always repeat the same mistakes until one day, ponies will forget about you. You two will always be the laughingstock and least ponies in history. Nopony will even care about you, not even your own family. What would your own mother say right now if she saw you both doing this."

Flim and Flam growled at the alicorn master as they felt their blood go red.

"That's it!" Flim exclaimed in anger and rage.

"It's GO TIME!" Flam shouted angrily.

"What is going on here?" Chancellor Neighsay's voice demanded firmly.

The three turned and looked at the office's entrance, where Chancellor Neighsay entered. And at the same time, Jade, Starswirl, and Twilight were hiding behind the door while spying on them. They both looked worried and concerned.

"What is Princess Twilight's husband doing here?" Chancellor Neighsay demanded.

"Would you believe us that he getting caught snooping in our office in disguise?" Flim explained calmly while showing the picture to Chancellor Neighsay. He shrugged, "Well, sort of."

"Oh, honestly, Chase Young, envy does not look good on you." Flam said as he shook his head in disappointment.

Chancellor Neighsay hummed while looking at the photo.

"If it were Princess of Friendship, then I would be more convinced about it." He glared at Chase, "Still, if you're here, then that means your wife is indeed undermining her competition."

Chase Young gave his stern glare at Chancellor Neighsay.

"Wrong again, Chancellor, as always. I didn't come here for investigation." Chase said sternly.

"Then, what are you doing here in the first place?" Flim asked amusingly.

Flam nodded while looking at the photo.

"From the looks of this picture, it does look like you were snooping in our office." Flam said calmly as well.

"Oh, I am snooping in the office," Chase confirmed firmly. Everyone was shocked and surprised. He picked up one of his shurikens, "I was looking for this. One of my shurikens was left in here."

Flim, Flam and Chancellor Neighsay looked suspicious and unconvinced.

"Do you honestly think you could fool us so easily?" Chancellor Neighsay questioned suspiciously as Chase remained calm and firm.

"Believe what you want. That's the truth. And besides, if you publish this picture to the public, no pony would believe in you. Why would I be snooping around in the office, unless it was a fake?" Chase replied back sternly.

Chancellor Neighsay, Flim and Flam glared at the calm yet cool-headed alicorn stallion. Jade, Starswirl, and Twilight looked worried and concerned for him now before Chancellor Neighsay sighed.

"Very well, leave now." Chancellor Neighsay said as Chase was about to leave when Flim got in his way.

"You won't get so lucky next time. We will show the world that Princess Twilight undermines our university." Flim said with a smirk as Flam nodded in agreement.

"Unless... you decided to drop the whole 'uncover the scam' thing." Flam added as well with an evil smile.

"Why yes, my brother. We'll forget about getting picture of your wife, so it won't ruin her and her school." Flim smirked slyly.

"Oh, really? Then who would believe in you two when everypony finds out you lost your bet? You or me?" Chase asked as he gave Flim and Flam a death glare, making the two con artists scared by that. "Be careful of what you said, Flim and Flam because it will come and bite you back. Very painful for you both and the chancellor."

Chase firmly marched out of the office. As soon as he left, the three of them sighed in relief. They never thought Chase could be very threatening and terrified for them to handle.

Chase met up with Twilight and Starswirl, who smiled in relief to see him alright. Twilight immediately hugged her husband before the three quickly moved out while searching and meeting with Rarity, Sunray, and Grazer.

"That was too close," Starswirl remarked in relief. He looked at Chase, "I don't know if that is brave or foolish of you to do that. In fact, you have definitely impressed me, Chase."

"You know him, Starswirl. He's my brother for you." Jade said as she and Chase smiled at each other.

"And one thing's for sure, guys. They don't scare me." Chase said with a smirk.

"Either way, let's find others," Twilight said calmly, "Hopefully they've got some good news."

(Scene changes)

Twilight and her team were looking around, searching for Rarity, Grazer, and Sunray. Outside of the Friendship University, they found their friends chatting and talking with the students about generosity. As soon as the students left, they approached them.

"Starswirl, everypony." Rarity greeted them warmly. She noticed Chase, Twilight, and Jade are not in disguise. She gasped, "Was your cover blown?"

"You could say that. Flim and Flam took a picture of Chase sneaking into their office instead of me." Twilight answered with a sigh of relief.

"Be thankful that wasn't you," Jade said calmly while patting Twilight's back, "Because if you were in that picture, you would be in a difficult position. And who knows how much damage it will cause to us and our school?"

"Probably the worst, Jade." Sunray remarked dryly as Twilight sighed again depressingly.

"If I don't stop investigating, they're going to tell everypony that I'm trying to sabotage their school because I'm jealous." Twilight said with worry.

"Don't tell me that you're giving up now." Grazer asked in disbelief. "This is not like you, Twilight."

"Might as well be, Grazer. I don't want to risk everyone's reputation for this investigation." Twilight admitted in concern, "It's not worth it. We should probably just go home."

"Twilight, you are not the kind of pony to let your emotions cloud your judgment." Rarity encouraged Twilight, "If you think Flim and Flam are up to no good, you can't give up."

"I Agree with Rarity, Twilight." Starswirl said firmly and seriously. He patted Twilight back as he comforted, "Sometimes, it is necessary to risk your reputation when your gut's telling you to do, especially your adversary's personality and plan. And I believe we're on the right track."

"How so?" Twilight asked in confusion.

"You were right about Flim and Flam." Starswirl explained. "They claimed they turned a new leaf, they're willing to stoop so low to snap a picture on you and blackmail it to the public and Chancellor Neighsay to turn against you. And I also noticed that some students have to pay extra bits for other assignments and tools for the course, unlike mine. I get a discount."

Rarity hummed in concern.

"Why yes. I noticed that too. If you want to keep advancing here, you would need lots of bits. The tuition's free, but the worksheets sure aren't." Rarity said as she then showed her empty pouch, "I used all of them."

"Well, you should've ignored it, Rarity." Sunray remarked dryly. He then held his camera up, "Flim and Flam aren't the only ponies trying to get the proof. I taped everything Flim and Flam have been doing including their teaching style, giving false grading and especially getting extra paid for more worksheets. And interestingly, I don't see any teachers but Flim and Flam."

"It appears that Flim and Flam did leave us a clue." Starswirl said while stroking his beard with a suspicious look.

"Clue? Clue to what?" Chase asked in surprise.

"The true goal behind Friendship University," Starswirl explained. "Paying extra bits for some kind of expansion to their resort would most likely be it."

"And where their students are paying them more extra bits, there could be a secret vault hidden somewhere in the school." Jade said, theorizing on what the con-artists were doing.

"Yes. Very quick thinking and brilliance, Jade." Starswirl said, admiring Jade's intelligence as the unicorn mare smiled in reply.

"Twilight, Chase, maybe the others and I should take over the investigation." Rarity suggested Twilight and Chase, "Think of your reputation!"

"Our reputation isn't worth much if we won't risk it for what we think is right." Twilight said firmly, earning Starswirl's proud smile. She continued firmly and confidently, "Besides, we have a plan."

"Yeah. This time, Flim and Flam are going down." Chase added with a determined smirk as the others shared the same smile with him.

"If you need help, I might be able to do that for you." A voice came from behind them as they turned to see Woody Woodchuck in disguise as a student.

"Who are you?" Chase asked curiously.

"Chase, it's me." Woody said removing his disguise as the seven surprised by this.

"Woody!" Chase and Twilight said happily.

"What are you doing here?" Jade asked Woody curiously.

"Stan, Quarry, and I found out about this so-called school and sent me to investigate it." Woody replied back. "And I know where the vault is if you follow Flim and Flam carefully not get spotted by Chancellor Neighsay."

The group nodded as Woody began to tell them quietly what to do.

(Scene changes)

It wasn't long before Flim and Flam were headed to their office with a bag of bits, unaware that Twilight, Chase, Jade, Sunray, who was now out of his disguise, Grazer, who was uncloaked, and Starswirl were following them.

Glancing to be sure they weren't followed, Chase peeks through the doors, and sees Flim turning a clock hand. The two con-artists then flipped their picture frames upside down and then a secret door opens as they went through a tunnel.

"Bingo." Chase said with a smirk as he, Twilight, Jade, Sunray, Grazer, and Starswirl followed the brothers, knowing their theory was correct.

(Scene changes)

Reaching to the end of the room, Flim and Flam have arrived and entered the richest yet royal-themed vault with brown curtains and shelves, which was filled with piles of bits, jewelries and even souvenirs. It has the furniture, portraits, pots of plants and in the center has the large table of Las Pegasus Display.

Flam climbed a ladder and emptied the bits onto a pile, then climbed back down with a smile on his face. Flim used a paintbrush with red paint and filled in a drawn up beaker.

"Well, brother of mine, we've got almost all the bits we need to expand our resort. If we add another level of classes and worksheets, we'll be there," Flim said.

"Maybe we should add two levels, just to be safe," Flam suggested.

The brothers had a look at a scale model of their resort expansion plan, trying to decide where to place certain things.

"It's a thing of beauty. But I was thinking. What if we added another extreme pool slide here?" Flim asked while placing a flag on the set.

"Mmmm... Sure, as long as the pipes for the musical chocolate fountain go through... here," Flam replied as he placed another flag close by of the slide location.

"But shouldn't that go closer to the pudding hot tub here?" Twilight's voice questioned while pointing at two places.

"Fair point, but-!" Flim was interrupted as he and Flam. "WHAT?!"

They saw Chase, Jade, Sunray, Grazer, Twilight, and Starswirl glaring at them sternly.

"Surprise, guys!" Chase said with a smirk.

"We knew your school was a scam!" Twilight said sternly, stamping her hoof down.

"Did you two honestly think you were going to get away with it?" Jade added with a firm glare as Flim turned and looked at Starswirl.

"And you?" Flim asked Starswirl fearfully.

"Undercover to investigate this school and its purpose," Starswirl answered calmly and firmly, shocking Flim and Flam. He scoffed while looking at his surroundings, "I meant what I said about you two wanting to change for the better. But it appears that you have no good intention of helping the students to learn about friendship. How disappointing."

"All this is to spite me and my friends for ruining you all and also getting the bits for resort expansion plans. My husband and I are tempted to lead your students here to see your true colors." Twilight said angrily, scaring Flim and Flam even more.

"Uhhhh… l-let's not get hasty." Flam spoke up nervously. "You all have something on us, we have something on you. Let's just call it even."

"I don't think so. You can destroy my reputation if you want, but using your students' bits to expand your resort is wrong, even if the lessons you teach are good ones." Twilight firmly disagreed.

"Of course they're good. We copied them from your book," Flam replied, revealing their lesson plan as he held the copy of the alicorn couple's book.

"We just skipped every other page. All the lessons, half the time!" Flim added as Flam flipped all of the pages, but they were given the shock of their lives when Chase zipped over and snatched the book from them.

"Well, not anymore." Chase said sternly as he stood next to his family and friends. "We're taking this back to our school and put it back in our office where it can't be used to harm other ponies."

"It's so obvious that Twilight, Chase, their family, and their friends are the only ponies that know about friendship. Hardly anyone like you two ever taught that." Starswirl added sternly

"And if you really want to call it even, give back the bits and stop charging for our lessons. Then you can teach them as much as you like." Twilight offered with a smile, making Flim and Flam turned to each other.

"Nah!" Flim and Flam replied in unison.

"Running a school is more work than we thought. Besides, we almost have everything we need," Flim said.

The brothers made a dash for the door only to be blocked by Rarity, "I think not!" she replied.

"Plainity? My star pupil?" Flam asked.

"Not Plainity, but..." Rarity said, resuming switching to her normal voice and removing her disguise, "Rarity!"

"Who?" Flim asked.

"She's not the only one and neither are the others." A voice came in as Woody Woodchuck came next to her and removed his disguise, shocking the two con-artists even more.

"Officer Woody Woodchuck?!" Flim exclaimed in shock.

"We decided to bring somepony else here to listen to everything you just said!" Rarity replied as she and Woody moved aside to reveal Chancellor Neighsay marching into the vault, shocking and scaring the two con-artists as Flim stutters.

"Hey, Chancellor Neighsay." Flim greeted nervously. "We were just about to-"

"Enough lies!" Chancellor Neighsay exclaimed in fury, silencing and scaring the two con-artists. He continued, "Not only you all have deceived me to approve and accredit your school because of my bigotry against the creatures, but also used this university to fill up the bits in your greedy pocket and resort expansion. You have truly disgusted and insulted me, gentleponies. I'm ashamed of this. I will not allow you to continue with this intolerable activity and action, especially stain the reputation of the EEA! By the power invested in me, the Friendship University's accreditation is hereby revoked! Return the bits you've collected from your students and close your school! Flim and Flam, I will pardon you for this but as long as you never set a hoof in a learning environment again."

Flim and Flam gulped nervously.

(Scene changes)

It wasn't long before Flim and Flam reluctantly gave the students their bits back. Woody was keeping an eye on them with the aid of the newly arrival of Stan Hoofington and Quarry Breeze.

Twilight, Chase, Jade, Sunray, Grazer, Rarity, and Starswirl were there as well, even Chancellor Neighsay. Then Stan Hoofington gave his speech.

"Flim and Flam are notoriously con-artists and criminals for selling ill-equipped and dangerous products and items to ponies for getting their greedy hooves on bits. They have committed many crimes, but never been arrested or even faced with the consequence. And today proves their treacherous and devious action by building their own Friendship University. All of this was to spite Twilight, Chase, their family, and their friends, and even collecting the bits for themselves. This action will not be tolerated and unforgiven." Stan sternly said to the crowd.

Everypony chattered in concern from hearing that.

"And that's not all," Woody continued while sternly pointing at Chancellor Neighsay, who was in shock and disbelief. He continued, "Due to his selfishness, arrogance and desire to spite the School of Friendship, Chancellor Neighsay has accepted their bribe and abused his power to support Flim and Flam's so-called university, allowing them to gain more bits. And the worst he ever did is that he wants to frame Princess Twilight and Master Chase for undermining the investigation. All this is to restore his reputation and prove that his concerns about creatures and ponies are enemies, not allies. So, to avoid this scandal, he's willing to discredit and close down Friendship University to cut off his connection with them."

Everyone gasped in shock and disbelief. They all glared at Chancellor Neighsay, who gulped in fear and concern.

"No! No! No! That is not true! I have no connection to them! Honest!" Chancellor Neighsay protested, "I have nothing to do with this!"

"Spare us the lies to save your reputation, Chancellor," Quarry said sternly, cuffing Chancellor Neighsay as he was shocked by this. "As of now, you are hereby placed under arrest for this fake establishment."

"And we will take into custody so Princess Celestia can revoke your EEA privileges as well as having your medallion taken away!" Stan added, taking Chancellor Neighsay's medallion away, shocking him even further.

Completely humiliated and ashamed of what has been happening, Chancellor Neighsay turned and glared at Twilight, Chase, Jade, Sunray, Grazer, Starswirl, and Rarity. He was completely furious and angry as he thought of them for this mess.

"Glare at us and I'll kick your flank even harder," Chase threatened darkly, "Trust me, you have no one but yourself to blame for this mess. I told you this will be very painful."

Chancellor Neighsay narrowed his angry eyes.

"I won't forget this." Chancellor Neighsay said bitterly as Stan, Woody, and Quarry escorted him to a police carriage wagon, shoving him in, and took him away.

"Thanks for returning our bits." Said a yellowish Earth Pony. "But how are we going to learn about friendship now?"

The others felt the same way as they muttered to each other sadly.

"Well, I can refer you to a fairly reputable establishment just outside of Ponyville." Star Swirl said with a calm smile. "I'm quite certain the headmare and headstallion would consider letting you in."

"And we're more than happy to bring you all in." Chase added as he held Twilight close to him as she giggled happily.

"The School of Friendship always welcomes the new and bright students to join us." Jade added happily as the students cheered.

(Scene changes)

Soon enough, Twilight, Rarity, Chase, Jade, and Sunray were back at the School of Friendship.

"…Of course, if I ever go to a school again, I'll make sure it's yours. In friendship, Star Swirl." Twilight said, reading Starswirl's latest postcard as Chase was sitting next to her while reading the latest info of Chancellor Neighsay facing trial.

"Well, guys. It looks like Chancellor Neighsay won't be a problem to us anymore for a while." Chase said with a smirk. "At least now he's in jail for his crimes."

"Yeah, hopefully that will learn some manners eventually." Jade said in agreement as Sunray chuckled.

"He should've seen the look on his face when he heard the false school. It was priceless." Sunray added as his family laughed in agreement.

"I still don't understand how Flim and Flam could have gotten a copy of your book," Rarity replied with a confused look.

"Yeah, I wonder how they did, anyway. There has to be some sort of logical explanation of who could've done this." Chase said with a confused look.

"Surely they couldn't have just randomly gotten a hold of one." Jade said. "Right?"

"I don't know, guys. Whoever it was, we should keep it quiet." Twilight said when the door opens, and saw Cozy piers in her head in.

"Uh, I finished straightening up in the library." Cozy said. "Professor Rarity, I just to make sure you're definitely keeping these." She gestured to the crates.

"But of course, darling." Rarity said. "If there's one thing I learned at Friendship University, it is not to give up when you know what's right. And I know teaching friendship through sewing is right! I just need to figure out now."

Twilight and Cozy smiled as if they were laughing on the inside. Chase, Jade, and Sunray just rolled their eyes with amused smiles on their faces.

"Well, I have to go now. I have a friend waiting for me somewhere else." Cozy said as he leaves the office.

Chase looked confused as he felt something suspicious was off about the pegasus filly.

(Scene changes)

A little while later, Cozy Glow flew into the cave of Dark Mountain and landed inside before she walked to the dojo.

She saw Kai sharpening his blade for a few times before he stopped as he felt her presence.

"What is it, my student?" Kai asked as he turned to Cozy Glow, who approached him.

"I did exactly as you told me to do, Kai." Cozy said with an evil smirk. "Handing Flim and Flam that copy of the alicorn couple's book was ingenious. I managed to get the artifacts and brought them down to the catacombs of the school so we can begin the ritual after we have Chase out of the way."

This made Kai smirk upon hearing that.

"Excellent." Kai said as he placed his sword down. "Once we have him banished, draining all of the magic will be easier than ever. Soon, we will rule both the Netherworld and Equestria."

Kai then chuckled sinisterly as his eyes flashed green a bit.

Author's note:

Well, guys. Looks like Chancellor Neighsay is sent to jail for a while until we reach to chapter 26: Framed as he will appear again to get rid of Chase. Hope you enjoyed this one.

Peace out!