Chapter 1: School Daze, Part 1
It has been a week since the Friendship Festival and the Storm King's invasion. The Mane Fourteen, Starlight, and Spike gathered around the cutie map table to see that the map expanded more of the places beyond Equestria that they went to.
"Whoa, check it out, everypony." Chase said, looking at the Friendship Map.
"This happened while we were gone?" Twilight asked in surprise.
"It sure looks that way." Jade said equally surprised just like her family and friends.
"Wow! Those are all the places we went when we left to save Equestria!" Applejack said.
"Ugh! There's that horrid town where we were almost sold." Rarity remarked in disgust as she looked at Kuldgetown.
"The pirates! They were pretty awesome!" Rainbow said, seeing Celaeno's ship before she noticed Chase giving her a blunt look and looking sheepish. "Uh, once they decided not to throw us over-board."
"And before you set off the Sonic Rainboom." Trini said bluntly, making the cerulean mare glare at her annoyingly.
"And Mount Aris!" Pinkie said as she observed Mount Aris while bumping Applejack. Then she zipped over to Starlight, grabbing her by the cheeks. "Oh, Starlight! Did you know that we made seashell necklaces for aaaaaa..." Pinkie Pie inhaled and then continued, "...aaaaall the seaponies?" Then she remembered the time they found out about Chase's grandfather, Darius Hisomi's friendship with the Hippogriffs. "Oh and Chase's grandfather, Darius, was also there when he saved the Hippogriffs from the Quinkan in the past!"
"I… you… he… really?" Starlight asked stunned as Pinkie nodded her head while smiling. Then the lilac unicorn turned to Chase and Twilight as she looked at the alicorn stallion. "I still can't believe that the Storm King took your grandfather away, Chase. It must've been hard to find out the truth of what happened to him."
"Yeah, but at least his spirit came to us for the first time." Chase said with a smile as Twilight nuzzled her husband's cheek in agreement.
"What about that unicorn? The one who attacked Canterlot?" Starlight asked. "And the leader of the Basilisk Ninja clan?"
"Tempest! I invited her to come to Ponyville, but she wanted to spread the word of the Storm King's defeat and share what she learned about friendship," Twilight replied.
"And since Deker left after he helped us out, he declared a truce that he won't harm anypony else." Chase added with a smile.
"Does this mean we won't be seeing Tempest for a while?" Nyx asked her mother and father.
"I'm afraid so, sweetheart," Twilight said.
"So, y'all think that's why the map grew? Friendship quests beyond Equestria?" Applejack asked.
"That could be, honey." Clay said, agreeing with his wife.
"I hope not. I've had quite enough life-threatening adventures, thank you very much," Fluttershy said.
"Yeah, I don't want my girl to get caught out there dead." Sokka said as he held his wife close to him, making her smile contently.
That's when Pinkie brought a tape measure and measured the room.
"How many friendship quests do you think we need to go on before we have to expand the throne room?" Pinkie Pie asked, wearing a hard hat as she took out a tape measure.
"We can't do it all alone," Twilight said.
"Sure we can! We just need to knock this wall down, get some paint..." Pinkie replied as she took out a jackhammer and a jar of pink paint.
"No, I mean the world is filled with so many different creatures who know nothing about friendship. We need help if we're gonna teach them all about friendship. Lots of help," Twilight said.
"And to be sure that they won't have to worry about any threat that might come there way." Chase added in agreement with his wife.
"Perhaps, darling. But where does one go to learn about friendship?" Rarity asked.
"Here! They can all go here! Because that's why we're going to open a school!" Twilight replied after pointing at a place near Ponyville.
Chase could tell where this was going.
"Is it gonna help you make your dream come true?" Chase asked his wife amusingly.
Twilight nodded in confirmation with an excited giggle as Chase rolled his eyes with a smile.
*Main theme*
In Canterlot, Princess Celestia and Pakku met up with Twilight, Chase, and Spike, as they talked about Twilight's idea about their school.
"I think a school of friendship is a wonderful idea, Twilight and Chase!" Princess Celestia commented calmly, "I'll help in any way I can."
"In fact, this is the first time I have heard about the school involving education behind the concept of friendship. I am willing to provide assistance." Pakku said as he nodded in agreement.
Excited to get more tips, Twilight levitated and readied to write on her notepad. Then she runs up in front of Celestia, startling her in the process.
"I just have a few questions. What time should school start each day?" Twilight asked as Celestia smiled in amusement.
"It really d—" Celestia tried to say.
"What's the ideal length for class? Do you test regularly?" Twilight asked, cutting her off.
"Oh, well, that's—" Celestia tried to say before Twilight cut her off again, "What about class projects?"
"That's a very—" Celestia tried to reply.
"Assigned seating? Open seating? Or is that... too unstructured?" Twilight asked frantically.
"Alright, alright, honey. Enough!" Chase said with a chuckle as Twilight smiled sheepishly to her husband.
"I suppose she is quite excited to start your school, right, Chase?" Pakku asked Chase amusingly.
"Sorry about Twilight, Pakku. And yes. We're both new to the whole idea of running a school," Chase apologized to Celestia and Pakku as the monarch of the sun giggled.
"Oh, Twilight. You and Chase were my star pupils. If anypony knows how to run a school, it's the both of you." Celestia said confidently.
"There's a big difference between attending a school and running one." Twilight commented, "It's not like there's a rule book to follow."
"Actually, there is." Pakku added calmly, "The EEA guidebook is very specific about how to run a school."
"I don't suppose it spells 'Education Equals Academy', Pakku?" Chase asked with a smirk, causing Spike to snicker while Twilight gave her husband a playful glare.
Pakku chuckled a bit.
"Not exactly, Chase." Pakku said calmly. "The EEA stands for Equestria Education Association - a board of learned ponies that oversee every school in Equestria including Princess Celestia's. I should know it because I went there to open my own school of martial arts training."
"Really?" Chase asked surprisingly. "What does it feel like to meet up with the board?"
"Dreadful… Terribly dreadful…" Pakku remarked dryly with an annoyed groan, "They're too strict and stoic with the same rules and not very flexible to some changes. And not to mention, they're not open-minded as I am."
"But you could change that rules, can't you?" Chase asked hopefully.
"Sadly, I never had the privilege to do that." Pakku responded back with a sigh before he recomposed himself with a smile. "But here it is much more flexible and relaxing to see more unicorns to reach their full potential."
"Wait a sec!" Spike interrupted firmly. "You're saying that EEA is also overseeing your school? But you're you!"
"I have to agree with Spike." Chase said as he turned to Celestia. "You're the Princess. Shouldn't you have more high authority than EEA and decide what is best including the school?"
Princess Celestia shook her head calmly.
"Not even a princess can do whatever she likes when it comes to shaping young pony minds." Celestia explained as she then magically formed the symbol of EEA, "The EEA ensures that whether it's unicorns studying magic, Pegasi learning weather, or Earth ponies researching agriculture, all schools are held to the same high standard. They'll need to approve your plan before you can move forward."
Chase sighed to himself.
"Why do I get the feeling that we're gonna have some boring presentation?" Chase asked in annoyance as Twilight hummed thoughtfully.
"Okay, guys." Twilight said to her husband and dragon assistant. "Looks like we have a presentation to make."
"After everything we've been through, how hard can that be?" Spike scoffed with a smirk.
"I'm afraid there's more to this, Spike," Princess Celestia said seriously and calmly, "The Head of EEA you're about to meet is very 'specific' about his view on the world."
"Celestia is right you three." Pakku said as he nodded firmly in agreement. "I met him before and know him very well. He's not very fond of trusting and working with 'non-ponies'."
The mention of 'non-ponies' struck on both Princess Celestia's and Pakku's minds. They realized Twilight and Chase's true plans of opening and running the School of Friendship.
"Twilight, Chase, your school isn't just for ponies, is it?" Pakku asked in concern.
Chase and Twilight were shocked and surprised by Pakku's deducing her plans for school.
"H-How did you know that?" Twilight asked in shock. "We didn't tell anyone about it, not even our own friends."
Princess Celestia smiled warmly.
"Twilight, I also have the same thinking as yours and Chase's since the Storm King's invasion." Princess Celestia said as Twilight and her family were surprised. She continued, "If it were not for them, we wouldn't be alive today. They have indeed proven themselves to be powerful and worthy allies. You've made the right decision to make the alliance with them. And perhaps, this can be done."
"However, Twilight and Chase, be warned. The Head of EEA may not agree with your proposal due to his 'suspicious' on non-ponies," Pakku said in concern yet calmly, "But I shall accompany and provide you the assistance with your presentation."
Chase and Twilight smiled with relief.
"Much appreciated, Pakku." Twilight said to the elder alicorn stallion as Spike smirked.
"I'm pretty sure it's gonna be piece of cake." Spike said with a confident grin.
Chase glared at him unamusingly.
"You better not jinx this, Spike." Chase said flatly.
(Scene changes)
With the help of Pakku's assistance, Twilight and her family headed straight to EEA Headquarter for the School of Friendship Presentation. They even brought a couple of files involving her project. When they arrived inside the court, they're facing the large members of EEA in it. Twilight and Spike were uneasy and nervous while Pakku and Chase remained calm.
"On second thought, not piece of cake." Spike commented in fear.
"Well, I told you not to jinx it, Spike." Chase said in annoyance. "You always do it." Spike glared at him, but knew Chase was right. The alicorn stallion saw the stern looks on the EEA members. "I guess you're right about them, Pakku. They're very strict and stoic about their job and overseeing the schools."
"You have no idea…" Pakku said with a sigh as Twilight cleared her throat.
"Uh, hello. My name is-" Twilight was cut off.
"Princess Twilight Sparkle, and Alicorn Jiu Jitsu Master Chase Young." The firm yet strict and stoic voice spoke which also seems cold hearted. Twilight and Chase looked up and found a white Unicorn with dark black combed hair and short tail worn a crimson coat with crimson sash and EEA Crest. While keeping and holding the EEA Guide Book, he continued firmly, "I am Chancellor Neighsay. Equestria owes you a great debt. But princess and prince or no, we expect you two to do things by... the... book!"
Chancellor Neighsay levitated and passed the EEA Guide Book to Twilight and Chase. The princess levitated and looked through the book's pages. Chase glared while reading it.
"Right. Assuming it works for School of Friendship." Chase said in annoyance, not liking Chancellor Neighsay's tone of voice.
"I think you'll find our curriculum meets all your requirements, Chancellor." Twilight said with a confident smile.
Twilight levitated the file books for 'School of Friendship' to Chancellor Neighsay and the rest of EEA members. They all then read through the book carefully and patiently.
"And can we trust you both to follow through with this plan? Are you and your friends capable of teaching the students with your busy schedule?" Chancellor Neighsay questioned stoically, "And more importantly, will you leave the school unattended to gallop off on your... 'adventures'?"
"We're well aware of those concerns. But rest assured, sir, we've prepared several candidates to serve as substitute teachers for any and all classes. We've even prepared the provisions of handling the emergency, should our friends and us be summoned for a mission." Twilight explained.
"I see. It's clear that you and your husband are well-prepared and have contingency plans for your school during your absence. However, why do you two wish to open and run your school?" Chancellor Neighsay asked sternly and stoically.
"Our journey beyond Equestria showed us firsthoof that the threats out there are greater than we imagined." Chase explained. Several members of the EEA started to speak in hushed and frightened tones of voices as Chase continued, "If we want to keep our land safe and create a friendlier tomorrow, we need to teach the magic of friendship far and wide!"
"A school for ponies to learn how to protect themselves!" Chancellor Neighsay replied.
"Uh, more like respecting differences and communicating," Twilight said. "Our school isn't just for ponies to learn 'The Magic of Friendship', but it is also for other creatures as well. And together, we can build a better tomorrow while defending against the greater threat. United we stand."
Chancellor Neighsay hummed suspiciously.
"Are you certain this is a wise decision, Princess Twilight? Having other creatures to live among us? To learn and study 'Magic of Friendship'? Can we truly trust them as our friends and allies? How can we be certain that these creatures won't turn on us?" Chancellor Neighsay asked suspiciously with a glare. "Zhao is likely the last creature I want to trust. I highly doubt that those other creatures you've allied with are of any use to us."
Twilight and Chase were a bit annoyed by Chancellor Neighsay's accusation, despite the news that other creatures have provided reinforcement and aid to Equestria and repelled the enemies.
"Zhao's already done with after I defeated him in the Netherworld, Chancellor Neighsay." Chase replied back while glaring at the unicorn elder. "And you should choose which words you use carefully if you know what's good for you." Chancellor Neighsay looked shocked by this. "I'd say these creatures have proven themselves to be our powerful allies. If that does not convince you, then nothing is."
"It is true, Chancellor." Pakku nodded firmly. "Though we have some differences and difficult history with these creatures, we all have one thing in common – defending our kind, our family and our home against the greater threat. And that threat is the Quinkan, even if they are done for. If we do not reach and teach them about friendship, then those spirit monsters will return to fight against us before we have the chance. I advise you to give our allies the chance rather than go against them."
Everyone was shocked and surprised by Pakku's defiance and defense for the Creatures of Equestria. "We can start off by showing how valuable friendship truly is." Twilight added. "Including how we can bring our allies as one."
"I agree. This school shall teach the values that hold our society together," Pakku added.
Chancellor Neighsay hummed thoughtfully while looking at the rest of EEA Members. They all nodded firmly and seriously about Twilight and her family's valued points.
There was a long and uncomfortable pause as Neighsay let the words slowly sink in.
"The EEA concurs. Regardless of my distrust and suspicion of these Creatures, everyone should be prepared to defend our way of life and defeat the Quinkan. So, if your work is all in order, provisional EEA approval is hereby granted. We will need to observe your school up and running before it can be fully accredited." Chancellor Neighsay said firmly.
Twilight and Chase gasped in surprise and relief. They all chatted happily about it.
"With all due respect, Chancellor, Twilight will always keep everything in order. Count on it." Chase said as he smiled confidently.
"Very well then, Master Chase." Chancellor Neighsay said. "We will need to observe your school up and running before it can be fully accredited. Therefore, we will sending our most efficient and dedicated school inspector - Darkshine."
The unicorn with a black fur coat, short gray mane, red eyes, a scar running down his left eye, and a cutie mark of a red snake with a japanese symbol marched in and saluted firmly.
"School Inspector Darkshine here, sir! Reporting for duty, sir!" Darkshine reported firmly.
"He will assist you to make sure your School of Friendship follows the book. And of course, he will make sure that these creatures won't cause problems as well. He will report to me by the end of your school's third month," Chancellor Neighsay said, firmly. "Will that be the problem?"
"No, sir," Twilight said calmly, "But would you like to join us for Friends and Family Day? It'll be the perfect time to see our progress!"
Chancellor Neighsay levitated and stamped the chop sign of EEA on Twilight's File Book. Twilight and Spike chatted happily about getting the approval. They can finally begin building, running and opening the School of Friendship.
Chase still didn't like the way Chancellor Neighsay was thinking, however.
(Scene changes)
Four months later, the School of Friendship was constructed and built, attached to the mountain with a waterfall that split and cascaded down into the large lake, which is filled with water floor stones. It is located near to the Castle of Friendship. The large yet decorated mansion-like building with two towers, an upper level with rooftop and lowered part has the waterfall covering the glassed door. Twilight and Chase informed their family about what they were going to do about teaching friendship to creatures, which left them surprised by this, but they trusted them on what they were doing.
Twilight, Chase, and the rest of their friends including Jade, Sunray, Trini, Antonio, Spike, Sokka, Clay, and Nyx were gathered inside the lobby. Darkshine was there as well. He was checking on the School of Friendship's surroundings and condition.
"It's too much. Too much!" Rainbow exclaimed in fear and concern.
"Ugh, you think so?" Rarity asked in concern. She was revealed to be wearing a cyan colored shirt and magenta long skirt. She even wore her glasses. She looked at her dress, "I had hoped dressing the part would help me feel the part."
"Not your dress!" Rainbow disagreed while looking around her surroundings, "This! Us! Teaching?! They're gonna think I'm an egghead!"
Pinkie brought the Party Cannon to the front. She gotten inside the cannon.
"Well, the students are gonna love my confetti cannon class. It's gonna be..." Pinkie cheered happily before pulled the strong, firing her off from the cannon/ She screamed happily, "a blast!"
Fluttershy cleared her throat as she was facing Sokka and her animal friends.
"Um, hello there. My husband and I are your teachers. We hope you enjoy class. But if you don't enjoy it, that's okay, too." Fluttershy spoke nervously and timidly.
Sokka sighed as he looked at his wife.
"Fluttershy, I know this is new for you, honey." Sokka said gently yet firmly. "But you have to be very serious, firm and assertive, so the students will obey and follow your command. If you do not, then they will take advantage of you."
"Isn't that a bit harsh, sweetheart? I mean we're supposed to help and teach them, right?" Fluttershy asked.
"Yes, we are. But sometimes we have to be more assertive, Fluttershy." Sokka answered.
"Alright, I'll at least try it." Fluttershy said with a smile as Sokka smiled in reply before they shared a loving nuzzle.
"I don't know about all of this." Applejack said with concern.
"There's nothing to worry about Applejack." Darkshine said calmly.
"Darkshine is right. It's going to be fine. Everything about this school just feels right." Twilight said calmly.
"See? If Twilight isn't stressed, you've got nothing to worry about." Starlight said with a smile.
"If Chancellor's cool with other creatures first," Spike commented dryly.
"Yeah, something tells me Chancellor Neighsay is like a big jerk to me." Sunray said in agreement.
"From what you guys told us about him, he doesn't seem like the friendly type to trust others." Jade said with concern.
"Well, if he doesn't approve this school is EEA accredited, then that's his loss." Chase said with a glare.
"And you're sure you two want us to be teachers? In classrooms?" Clay asked Chase and Twilight with concern.
Darkshine approached the group calmly.
"It might not be much, but it will certainly change the ways around here for all of you." Darkshine said calmly yet firmly as he lifted the book with his magic. "Just to remind you all that the EEA is very clear on how schools should be run. We have a huge responsibility, and I need you all to do this by the book. That means no cannons in class, Pinkie Pie."
Pinkie groaned in disappointment as she lifted up the smallest party cannon before Darkshine.
"Not even a tiny cannon?" Pinkie asked with a smile.
"Especially not a tiny cannon!" Darkshine said sternly, making Pinkie flinch in surprise as she looked at him fearfully. "When I say no funny stuff, I mean no funny stuff! Do you understand?!"
"Sir, yes, sir!" Pinkie said frantically and fearfully.
The others, minus Chase, were shocked by this.
"Wow, and I thought Chase was strict sometimes." Antonio said to his family, who nodded in agreement.
"One was bad enough, but two is like a new level." Sunray added in agreement.
Chase cleared his throat annoyingly, gaining their attention as they saw the stern glare in his eyes.
"Sorry." Sunray and Antonio said sheepishly.
"I know it's not some big adventure against the forces of evil, but this could be the most important thing we've ever done." Twilight said firmly yet sincerely, "Chase and I can't run a school of friendship without our best friends. Can we count on you?"
"Of course you can, darling," Rarity replied.
"Call me Professor Egghead. I'm in!" Rainbow Dash added.
The bell suddenly rang.
"Well, good. Because it looks like the students have arrived." Darkshine said amusingly.
"First day at school! So many new ponies!" Pinkie screamed happily and wildly.
"About that. One thing Chase and I forgot to mention." Twilight said calmly, "It's not just ponies."
While her family and Darkshine are aware of her plans, the rest of her friends were shocked and surprised by the announcement. As the doors opened in two, many ponies including five different creatures.
"That was unexpected." Pinkie commented in surprise.
"Ooh! Students certainly traveled from far and wide to attend our school!" Rarity remarked in surprise.
"Princess Celestia helped us reach out to all the kingdoms. After all, friendship is something that needs to be shared with every... creature," Twilight replied.
"Twilight? Chase? It's time," Starlight said.
Twilight and Chase nodded before they went up to make an announcement.
"Everypony and everycreature? Can we have your attention please?" Twilight asked, as the students stopped chattering and then listened to Twilight before she continued, "Welcome to the School of Friendship! I'm your headmare Twilight Sparkle."
"And I'm your vice head-stallion Chase Young. These are your teachers, Professors Jade, Sunray, Trini, Antonio, Rarity, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash. We promise that we'll make sure that you'll have the first best year here in your lives," Chase added.
The ponies chattered happily and warmly with each other about the new school and new lessons they can't wait to start and learn. Twilight and Chase climbed down the stage's steps. They then both meet up with Pakku, Bumi, and Iroh.
"An inspiring speech you've made, Twilight and Chase. You know how to get the attention," Pakku commented calmly and warmly.
"Pakku! Bumi! Iroh! What a surprise! It's good to see you here!" Twilight greeted warmly while hugging Pakku, who chuckled in amusement.
"Good to see you too, Twilight and Chase." Bumi said as Pakku and Twilight broke the hug. "We're honored that you invited three of our members to your school to teach friendship."
"Allow us to introduce them to you." Iroh said as he and his friends moved aside to reveal two colts and a filly.
The filly was an alicorn mare with a brown fur color, her mane and tail were dark brown, her eyes were a cyan color, a blue martial arts gi, carrying a staff, and her cutie mark representing a flowing watery wave with a water japanese symbol.
The first colt was a unicorn stallion with a dark red fur coat, slightly spiked black mane and tail, carrying a tanto katana, a black martial arts gi, his eyes were tangerine, and his cutie mark represented a fire strike.
Finally, the second colt was a unicorn stallion with a light green colored fur coat, his shortcut mane and tail were black, his eyes were pale green, carrying a tanto blade, wore a brown martial arts gi, and his cutie mark showed an earth crater.
"This is Korra, my granddaughter." Pakku introduced Korra as she stood beside her grandfather.
"This is Bolin." Bumi introduced Bolin as he stood beside the alicorn stallion.
"And this is Mako." Iroh introduced Mako to the royal alicorn couple.
Korra walked up to Chase with an excited smile.
"Master Chase Young!" Korra said excitedly as she shook Chase's right hoof, making the alicorn stallion chuckle in amusement before she stopped. "It is an honor to meet you at last. I've heard so much about you and your family saving the world from Zhao."
"We also heard that you defeated him for good, right?" Bolin asked.
Chase and Twilight chuckled with each other.
"Yes, it's true. Zhao is finally done with." Chase said.
"Well, we're honored to meet you and your Elite Ninja team as well to give our respect to you guys." Mako said with a smile as Chase and Twilight returned it.
"We're already aware of you both teaching friendship to creatures. We've informed the leaders of their different kingdoms about Chancellor Neighsay's distrust of them and will do anything to help support you two to make sure he won't be a problem." Iroh explained to Chase and Twilight, making them smile at him in relief.
"Thanks, Iroh." Chase said gratefully to him.
Among the crowd was an earth pony colt with pale light grayish spring bud fur, a ruffled light cyan and moderate opal mane and tail, light sea green eyes, and his flank had a cutie mark of three sea turtles.
He was minding his own business, until he bumped into a griffon.
The griffon had a brilliant cerulean fur with pale, light grayish amber chest and eyebrow fur, head feathers were a gradient of brilliant cerulean to grayish spring bud to brilliant amber, he had moderate cerulean wing and tail feathers, brilliant amber talons and beak, and moderate azure eyes.
"Whoa, sorry! I'm Sandbar. Are you a student here, too?" Sandbar asked the griffon.
"No, I just figured I'd randomly stand here and see how many ponies would walk into me." The griffon replied sarcastically as he blew his feathers up a bit.
"Gallus!" Yelled a familiar raspy voice, until he coughed and wheezed as Gallus approached him.
Rainbow Dash saw Grandpa Gruff.
"Grandpa Gruff? What are you doing here?" Rainbow Dash asked.
"Flew all the way from Griffonstone to introduce Gallus," Grandpa Gruff replied.
Gallus saw Rainbow Dash with a surprised look.
"Rainbow Dash, right? Gilda told me about you. You're a teacher? Huh. Thought you'd be... cooler," Gallus said.
"Ponies!" A voice greeted.
The door was opened revealing Prince Rutherford.
"Prince Rutherford!" Pinkie greeted him excitedly.
"This Yona Yak. She come to pony school. Hah. Make it better," Prince Rutherford said, introducing a young female yak to Pinkie.
Yona was a little, but strong yak with a grayish amber fur undercoat and grayish vermillion fur overcoat with a grayish green scarf over her upper back, a light brownish gray muzzle, a pigtailed moderate scarlet mane with pink bows, dark spring greenish and dark turquoisish gray horns, dark grayish green hooves, and moderate olive eyes.
"Yona Yak can't wait to meet new friends and tell them all about Yakyakistan!" Yona said.
Unfortunately, her long hair proved to be a problem as she tripped over it and started to tumble, knocking a few statues loose. Fortunately, Pinkie was there to snatch them all up before they could fall and shatter.
"Whoa, easy there, sugarcube." Clay said as he and Applejack approached Yona.
"Why don't me and Clay show you around before you destroy the place?" Applejack suggested.
Just then, Ember came in pulling a younger dragon by the wrist into the school.
The young dragon had brilliant gamboge scales with a light gold underbelly, wing membrane, and ear fronds, moderate orchid spines on her head and back, and moderate cyan eyes.
"But dragons are better than this! Why am I here?" The younger dragon complained once she broke free and leaned against a pillar with her arms crossed.
"Because as Dragon Lord, I'm ordering you to be here!" Ember scolded Smolder's behavior. She glared at her, "And don't forget why you're doing this, Smolder. I helped the others to avenge Chase's grandfather after the Storm King invaded Canterlot and we're to support him and his team after hearing of Chancellor Neighsay's distrust to our allies."
"I know that…" Smolder grumbled.
Then Ember turned to see Spike, who was helping Starlight and Jade with their works.
"Hey, Spike! Come meet Smolder." Ember called to him.
Spotting Ember on the left side of the hall, Spike happily approached and greeted her warmly while hugging her.
"Great to see you, Ember!" Spike exclaimed happily. Ember blushed in red while hugging him back as well. As they both departed from hugging, he looked back and found Smolder was leaning against the pillar. He greeted, "Nice to see you too, Smolder. Right?"
Smolder sighed while waved at Spike.
"Same here." Smolder replied back. She then noticed how close both Spike and Ember are. She hummed, "Aren't you two…?"
While looking at each other, both Spike and Ember blushed in red and frantically.
"What?! No! We're not! / I'm not! / He's not! / She's not!" Spike and Ember said unison.
Sunray chuckled a bit.
"Classic Spike and Ember…."
Jade giggled a bit.
"If Spike were to be a teenager as Ember, they'd make a lovely and cutesy couples." Jade said with a teasing smirk.
"I heard that! We're just friends!" Spike and Ember scolded firmly.
While laughing playfully; Sunray noticed a teenage brownish dragon that has goat horn, orange hair and wings was standing close to Smolder.
"Hey, who's that other dragon with you?" Sunray asked Smolder curiously.
Spike and Ember turned and looked at the mysterious dragon, who was shyly rolling up her hair, with a little finger of hers. Smolder was looking at her suspiciously and curiously.
"Ocellus!" Thorax called out, alerting the dragon. She turned and looked at him approaching her. He asked firmly, "What did we talk about?"
Ocellus was a young female changeling with a pale light grayish arctic blue chitin and carapace, a light amaranth neck fin, light amaranth wings with a brilliant amaranth elytra, moderate cyan eyes.
"I told you, stay in your own form. It's the polite thing to do," Thorax said before he turned to the others. "Sorry, she's shy."
Just then, a teenage female hippogriff popped her head out from the crowd.
She had light magentaish gray fur and pale light grayish orchid beak, hooves and clawed talon hands, light cornflower blue and light cornflower bluish gray mane and tail, moderate blue violet eyes, and a pearl and seashell necklace around her neck.
"What is that?!" She said, then zoomed over with a grin on her face.
Ocellus ran away, then transformed into a yellow green earth pony filly with light cyan hair, blue eyes, buck teeth, and a ladybug cutie mark. She then hid under Fluttershy's mane frightened by the hippogriff's excitement.
"No way! I didn't know ponies could turn into... um... What are you?" the hippogriff said, lifting up Fluttershy's mane.
"A changeling," Thorax replied.
"Ponies can turn into changelings?!" The hippogriff asked.
"No, but changelings can turn into ponies," Fluttershy replied, gently stroking Ocellus' head for reassurance.
"Huh. That's confusing!" The hippogriff said, scratching her head.
Sokka chuckles in amusement at the hippogriff's excitement.
"Must be full of energy, are you?" Sokka asked with an amused smile.
"You could say that." The hippogriff said with a modest smile.
That's when two familiar hippogriffs landed beside her as she landed beside them safely. Beside her were Queen Novo and Princess Skystar.
"Hey, guys!" Skystar greeted with a smile. "I see you both have met my cousin!"
"Cousin?" Sokka asked in surprise. "Then that means Queen Novo is-?"
"Her aunt? Yes." Novo replied with a smirk. "This is my niece, Sokka and Fluttershy. Silverstream."
"This place is amazing!" Silverstream said, until she calmed herself down, "I've spent most of my life in a coral reef underwater. I was a seapony, but now I'm a hippogriff again. Long story. Anyway... Wow! Is that a yak?!"
Silverstream zoomed over, leaving Fluttershy's face covered by her mane.
"Honestly, I find it surprising that you didn't send your daughter here," Sokka remarked in surprise.
"I really want to. But my mom said that I'm still grounded." Skystar groaned in disappointment.
Queen Novo scoffed.
"Yes, you are. So, I talked with my brother about sending Silverstream. He was reluctant since he got reunited with his family but knew it's for our kingdom. And I owe you all for saving our home." Queen Novo said to Fluttershy and Sokka with a smile.
Silverstream flew alongside Yona as the students chattered happily.
"Thank you so much for supporting the grand opening of our school." Twilight made the speech firmly yet humbly and calmly with Chase beside his wife, "Chase and I hope you'll all join us for Friends and Family Day to see the amazing progress your students are making."
Inspired and touched by Twilight's speech, the hundreds and more of the young students gave the loud cheers and applause to them. All of them can't wait to start learning and studying the Magic of Friendship.
"But we must remind you all about one problem we have." Chase said calmly yet firmly, making the students grow silent. "Chancellor Neighsay has a strong distrust of creatures, who believe they would use friendship as a weapon against us, which we believe is wrong to do that. Pakku, Bumi, and Iroh have already mentioned this to the other leaders of their own kingdoms." The students gasped at this in surprise while Ember, Queen Novo, Princess Skystar, Grandpa Gruff, Prince Rutherford, and Thorax remained calm as they nodded in confirmation about what Chase was saying. "I strongly advise all of you to be careful around him when he joins us for Friends and Family Day and I don't want him wrecking the progress we've made."
The students nodded and chatted with him in agreement as the leaders of their respective kingdoms nodded in agreement with him as well.
"Yak not liking nasty pony distrusting yaks." Prince Rutherford said with a glare of Chase describing Chancellor Neighsay's behavior towards creatures.
"Don't worry, Chase." Queen Novo said to the alicorn stallion with a smile. "We'll make sure he won't be a problem to the students as long as we all support you and Twilight."
"And to be sure that he can't touch them." Grandpa Gruff added.
"We won't let him disrespect us as long as we stand by your side." Ember added as well.
Thorax and Skystar nodded in agreement as well.
"Thank you all. Now, we will begin our class by tomorrow soon enough." Chase declared with a smile as the students cheered.
Twilight smiled.
"Well done, honey." Twilight said to Chase as she kissed her husband on the cheek before she levitated the EEA book and held it with her left hoof. "Looks like school's in session."
Chase sighed with a concerned look.
"Well, I just hope we know what we're doing." Chase said with concern.
Unknown to all of them, hiding outside of the doors leading inside the school was a cloaked figure, who was watching everything.
It snarled before it closed the doors and immediately ran off into the Everfree Forest.
(Scene changes)
The cloaked figure walked to the bridge leading to the Castle of The Two Sisters before it uncloaked itself, revealing it to be a Protoquin in disguise.
He opens the doors and walked inside, approaching a hooded figure before he kneeled on his right leg to the mysterious leader.
"Report." The hooded figure said firmly to the Protoquin.
"The ponies have finished building the school, master." The Protoquin said rasply. "Chase and Twilight have brought five new students into their school to teach friendship."
The hooded figure chuckled in amusement.
"Perfect. Then this will give us the opportunity to capture those five students and be rid of the Elite Ninja for good." The hooded figure said, removing his hood to reveal Kai!
He turns to the Protoquin soldier with a sinister smirk.
"Gather up the soldiers and get them training. It's time we pay the school a visit." Kai instructed the soldier who nodded before he went offscreen to gather the Quinkan army.
It was then Tai Lung approached Kai.
"I knew that those ponies would try something so foolish to even gain the trust of those creatures in their own kingdoms." Tai Lung said with a glare. "Chancellor Neighsay doesn't even fully understand either. And even if we could destroy Chase Young for good, how can we stop their allies?"
"Patience, Tai Lung." Kai said calmly with an evil smirk. "He'll know where his place is with his friends and family soon enough. For now, we capture his six misfit students and bring them here so he will be no more."
(Scene changes)
At the School of Friendship, one month has passed, things did not sit well for both teachers and students in the School of Friendship due to Darkshine's control to follow the EEA's policy. Everyone has grown frustrated and annoyed with it.
After surviving another boring class, Sandbar and his friends were walking down the hallway. They all looked bored yet exhausted and tired now.
"Is this what boring is? Am I bored?" Silverstream asked in confusion yet bored.
"Ugh, please. These ponies are the heroes of Equestria? I mean I did saw them in action but now, they're the jokes!" Smolder said in annoyance.
"Listen, these ponies saved all of us from the Storm King." Ocellus insisted calmly and softly, "I mean it was Counsellor Starlight and the Elite Ninja, who saved and freed my hive from Queen Chrysalis.
"Yeah. They even saved us from the Storm King." Sandbar added.
"How? By boring him to surrender?" Gallus asked sarcastically.
"No. To avenge Chase's grandfather, Darius Hisomi." Sandbar said with a glare.
"Yeah, his grandfather is also the one who saved us from Zhao and his Quinkan army too." Silverstream said in agreement.
"Our teachers are a little different than I expected." Ocellus said.
"Come on, guys. Give them a break. They're only doing this because Darkshine has to be incharge of keeping an eye on us so we won't cause any trouble." Korra said with a firm look on her face. "Chase said that Chancellor Neighsay has a strong dislike of creatures. It's obvious that they just have to teach us these lessons before the real friendship tests begin."
"Well, good luck finding out about it." Smolder said with a flat look.
"Ugh! Pony school waste of time! Yak school teach how to braid yak hair! Braiding yak hair is best!" Yona grunted in frustration.
Just before the yak could rant out again, she got tripped by one of her braided hair. Yona rolled down and knocked Smolder off to the ground. The orange dragon groaned in pain as she slowly recovered and got up. She turned and glared at Yona.
"Is there anything in Yakyakistan that isn't the best?" Smolder asked annoyingly.
"Yes! Wait. No! Yaks best." Yona exclaimed happily.
"No claws, no wings, no fire. What is it exactly you're proud of?" Smolder snarked, making Yona glare at her.
Sandbar could tell its getting tense with a nervous look.
"Whoa, cool it! No need to harsh Yona's love for her heritage, kay?" Sandbar asked, nervously.
"Aw, are we not being sweet and friendly enough for you, pony?" Gallus asked sarcastically.
"Hey, hey, hey, guys!" Mako said with worry. "Let's not go berserk around here."
"That was sarcasm, right?" Silverstream asked. " 'Cause you weren't being sweet or nice?"
"Maybe dragons and griffons are just too tough for friendship." Smolder said as she and Gallus did a fist bump.
"Yaks tough, just not nasty." Yona said as she glared at Gallus.
"Okay, guys. Let's just back away from each other and calm down." Bolin said, trying to stop this.
"Stay out of this!" Smolder shouted, making Bolin flinch.
Just before they could say or do anything, they then found the shadow's looming over Arcee and then them. They then spotted Darkshine stood before them. He was glaring at them.
"Well, well, well, what do we have here?" Darkshine asked angrily and annoyingly as he arrived at the scene. The students yelped in fear upon looking at him. He sighed in shame, "You all can't stand this, can you? So, you started the fight because you're all different and hated each other. Why am I not surprised?"
The students gasped in shock and concern.
In unison, the students all frantically and fearfully protested and tried to clear the misunderstanding about why they started the fight with each other.
"Enough!" Darkshine snapped angrily, scaring the students. He continued, "I don't want to hear this! All of you! Detention now! You'll not be joining Friends and Family Day until you all think of your attitude!"
The students awed and groaned in frustration and anger. They tried to protest but saw the fierce angry looks of Darkshine. They decided not to against it. They quickly headed off to the detention class at once.
"Crisis averted," Darkshine smirked proudly while writing down on his notepad, "Clearly, this school needs some serious improvement."
Chase, Jade, Sunray, Trini, Antonio, Clay, and Sokka have seen everything. They were all shocked and disbelieved about it.
"I just can't believe it." Clay commented in shock, "Fights breakin' out when they're supposed to be learnin' friendship?"
"Things definitely aren't going as 'by the book' as Twilight planned." Chase said in concern. "With Darkshine around, the School of Friendship definitely did not live up to its name."
"We're also terrible teachers, Chase." Jade said in disappointment, "Let's face it. This school isn't gonna work. Twilight's going to be disappointed."
"We need to talk some sense into her so she won't get this place unaccredited." Sunray said with his eyes narrowed.
"You read my mind, little brother." Chase said in agreement with a glare.
(Scene changes)
The rest of the Mane Sixteen have gathered and met up with Twilight inside the headmare and headstallion's office. They all explained and also complained over the situation they're dealing with such as students' failing their studies and nearly gotten into a big fight, their struggles with EEA strict teachings, and also Lockdown's mad control over the school.
Hearing her friends and family's complaints, Twilight finally had enough.
"Okay! I get it! I heard everything." Twilight said firmly, stopping their shouting as she groaned before slamming her head against the table, "This is so not happening."
"Gee, you think?" Sunray asked in frustration. "Darkshine's attitude towards the students is way off and all of these lessons from the EEA rule book aren't helping us teach friendship."
"And I told you a lot of times. Stop challenging Darkshine. The last thing you need is losing your legs to teach the students and fight the enemies." Twilight said with a sigh.
"Look, honey. I don't think this is going to work with all of the creatures around the world if we can't teach the students here about friendship." Chase said with a concern look as he stood next to his wife. "We need to do something with Lockdown. He's getting out of control over following EEA guidebook, which didn't sit well for us and the students."
Everyone chattered and nodded in agreement with Chase's concerns.
"Chase does have the point," Jade said in concern, "I mean, Chase's teaching styles got some students especially Korra, Bolin, and Mako in. They really love it."
"Yeah. I'm with Auntie Jade about this, Mom." Nyx said calmly. "I know every school in Equestria follows these rules. But maybe we should… try something new?"
Everyone chattered and muttered in agreement with Lance and Nyx about it. Twilight gave some thoughts of her children's suggestion about using their own teaching freestyles, instead of EEA's.
"You know what? You're right." Twilight said calmly. Her answer shocked and surprised everyone. She looked confused, "What?"
Spike gave his suspicious glare at her.
"Who are you, and what have you done with Twilight Sparkle?" Spike demanded.
"I have to agree with Spike. This is not you…" Applejack agreed in surprise as Starlight nodded.
"Yeah. You usually so hooked up with the rules so badly and make sure that everything must be followed to the letter." Starlight said in agreement.
"Plus, you would've gone crazy and mad over this mess and determined to get it right, no matter what," Trini added fearfully, "That part scares us the most especially reading the book."
Twilight sighed.
"I may be a bookworm and crazy over organizing, reading tons of books and even stressed with being a princess. But I'm not blind and stupid, everypony. I already know EEA's guidebook isn't working well for all of us. So, we're gonna change and make our own teaching freestyle. But we need to talk with Chancellor Neighsay about it." Twilight said firmly.
Everyone awed in surprise and amazed by Twilight's change of plans. They all chartered happily about making some changes in the School of Friendship.
"You think he'll be convinced?" Sunray asked curiously.
"I don't think it's gonna be easy, Twilight," Chase said in concern, "Trust me. When it comes to politicians, they're all about 'greater good' for their personal gains or the world. They are very complicated and stubborn ponies to deal with, unless you make them see your way by means of necessary."
"Meaning what, honey?" Twilight asked her husband in concern.
"You have to challenge and make him submit to you, so they're willing to accept your vision or worse – humiliation." Chase answered dryly and bluntly. It shocked Twilight and the others while Jade, Sunray, Trini, and Antonio remained calm and firm to nod. "There is no black and white in politics. It's all about the power and control over the land and system."
"For Celestia's sake, Chase Young! I need him to change EEA's rules for our own teaching freestyles and give some space for us and the students, not forcing him to do this!" Twilight scolded Chase as her husband didn't flinch. She sighed, "Why is dealing with politics so problematic?"
"Actually, it always has been." Jade said firmly and calmly, "Trust me, Twilight. I've looked through the articles about him a few weeks ago. Neighsay's not willing to change the rules and accept your reasons, unless you make him to do so."
Twilight shook her head in frustration.
"The EEA will be here this afternoon for Friends and Family Day. We'll try to negotiate with him about making some changes for the school. And of course, Lockdown needs some serious timeout from his control freaks with EEA rules." Twilight said with a firm glare.
Everypony muttered and chattered in concern about Twilight's trying to convince Chancellor Neighsay to make some changes on rules for School of Friendship. The school bell rang out loud.
"Don't worry, guys. We'll get through it. I promised," Twilight said calmly, "For now, handle some classes first."
Still not convinced yet concerned about her plans, they reluctantly put their trust in her. Everyone chattered and muttered in concern while immediately leaving the office. Both Twilight and Chase remained inside the office.
With everyone left, Twilight sighed in frustration while slamming against the table.
"You're scared and worried that Blazefist's right about Chancellor Neighsay not changing rules for your school?" Chase asked his wife calmly.
Lifting herself up, Twilight sighed as she turned to her husband.
"Am I being so obvious?" Twilight asked with concern.
"Yup. I know you too well." Chase said as he nodded.
Annoyed and frustrated, Twilight turned and looked at the window, giving some thoughts and concerns about the School of Friendship. She's now worried of what happen next if she talks and negotiate with Chancellor Neighsay about making some changes for her school.
"Do you think I'm making the right decision on this?" Twilight asked her husband with worry.
"You want my honest answer?" Chase asked honestly.
"Somehow. I'm gonna regret it." Twilight said with worry.
"Then, I hope you do it right or else, it would be your worst nightmare, honey." Chase commented to his wife firmly, "Do what you have to do for the school and everyone else. This is your dream. You make the call for it."
Twilight hummed in concern.
"Maybe you're right, honey." Twilight said as Chase held her with a foreleg as his wife nuzzled him under his chin.
(Scene changes)
The nine students were now inside the detention class. They were sitting down on their student desks. They were being watched by Darkshine, who was reading the EEA Guidebook while writing down on his notepads. All of them groaned in annoyance and frustration as they're all bored now.
"This is the worst…" Silverstream groaned in frustration, "I really hate detention class."
"Well, this is not what I've had in mind to take a break from class…" Gallus grumbled in frustration. He groaned, "Seriously. This is the worst."
"I guess I know why many students wanted to avoid it." Smolder sighed.
"We tried to warn you guys, but I guess you didn't listen." Korra said with a look of annoyance.
"Yeah. Don't you ever pay attention?" Mako added with a glare.
"Quiet, every creature! This is detention class!" Darkshine scolded angrily while reading the book. "One more loud remark and I'll send you all to the headmare and headstallion's office for suspension."
This made the rest of class groan as they were annoyed and irritated.
"I guess some of the ponies here are really highly strict like Headstallion Chase." Bolin said while faceplanting on his desk.
"Can you blame him? All my years of meeting him, I really want to be just like him." Korra said softly.
"You? Since when?" Gallus asked while turning his attention to the alicorn mare.
"Since the day I heard he and his family fighting off against the Quinkan. I heard he formed his Elite Ninja out of his family, Jade, Sunray, Trini, and Antonio." Korra explained. "How they saved the world from the Sanzu River flood, the battle in Manehatten, and the final battle taking place at the Hollow Shades where he finally ended the threat of Zhao."
"Yeah, and how they also gained the power from the Zeo Crystal to fight off the Quinkan as well." Mako added. "I've always wanted to meet them face to face. We wanted to see if they could help train us to become more brave in the face of danger."
Gallus, Smolder, Yona, Ocellus, Silverstream, and Sandbar gazed at them in slight surprise.
"You? But aren't you guys already highly trained ninjas or something?" Smolder asked.
"Well, yeah. But we're also scared of other things. Like I'm scared of heights." Korra answered sadly.
"I'm scared of dark places." Bolin said timidly.
"And I'm afraid of what will happen if I lose one of my family members too." Mako said with a sad look.
The six students were surprised by this.
"So you guys came here to see if Headstallion Chase and his family could help you guys out?" Gallus asked with a stunned look.
"Yeah. Since we heard of him being brave in the face of danger, this school would be the perfect place to see if he would be our martial arts teacher." Korra explained.
"Huh, you know, I guess I can take back everything I've said about you guys." Gallus said with a light grin. "You're not so bad after all. Especially all of you."
The eight smiled to him in response. Darkshine noticed the students were befriending each other while getting along and having fun as well. He was shocked yet surprised by them. He thought that they have no interest of studies since they make the fuss about it and wanted to go back home so badly.
"I did not expect this. The students are learning about friendship by themselves. That was impressive." Darkshine remarked in surprise. He hummed thoughtfully, "Maybe… Maybe this school doesn't need the EEA policy…"
CRASH!
Suddenly, a cloud of smoke came through a busted wall, causing the group to yelp in surprise while shielding themselves.
The smoke cleared away as Darkshine lowered his hooves, only to gasp in shock as shadows formed on the walls in front of him.
"No. It can't be." Darkshine said in shock and horror.
(Scene changes)
Outside, the ponies were chattering with each other happily and warmly. The Mane Sixteen were chatting with each other while drinking and eating the goodies.
Chase and Twilight were chatting and discussing with each other.
"So, you sure you're ready for this?" Chase asked in concern, "Remember, honey. Dealing with politician isn't easy. If things go wrong-!"
"I know, honey." Twilight said with an annoyed sigh. "I'll handle it. I am certain that Chancellor Neighsay will see the reason and willing to cooperate and change the rules for better."
"Yeah, I'm not sure he'll change for us. Chancellor Neighsay doesn't play the fair and favorites for anyone and even us, no matter what the reasons. And not to mention, he's racist to them." Chase said with a glare.
"Chase Young!" Twilight said with a scold.
"Hey. It's the truth. You heard how he talked and behaved when we talked about 'creatures'. He doesn't just have trust issues with creatures because he doesn't like them." Chase said sternly.
"He agreed with us. He let us build the school." Twilight argued with her husband.
"Reluctantly, sweetie. Reluctantly. There's a difference. He accepted your idea because he's doing this for Equestria, not making friends and alliance with creatures." Chase
"Look, Chase, Chancellor Neighsay is doing what is best for Equestria because it's his home. After what Storm King did to us, can you blame him for trying to be responsible?" Twilight said with a glare.
"Point taken, Twi. But all I'm saying is that we have to prepare for the worse if Chancellor Neighsay said 'no' and close down the school." Chase said with a concerned face.
"What would you have done? Don't even try to say 'fighting'." Twilight pleaded.
"Like I said before, Twi, do what you have to for the school." Chase said seriously and firmly.
Twilight sighed a bit.
"You're right. If this goes wrong, then I have no choice but to make my stand. I just hope that we won't have more problems now." Twilight said.
"But you really should be more careful around him, Twilight." Jade said as she, Sunray, Trini, and Antonio approached the alicorn couple. "Chancellor Neighsay seems really nasty when it comes to superstition."
"I'll try to see if he will change his mind, Jade." Twilight said assuringly to her sister-in-law. "But for now let's enjoy the party while we still can. Okay?"
"Alright. But come on, what's the worst that could happen?" Antonio asked when…
BOOM!
An explosion erupted in part of the school, causing everypony to yelp in surprise as smoke filled the area.
When it cleared away, Chase and the others looked up at where the explosion came from. And then stepping out into the sunlight of the detention class from the hole, there were two Pyroquin soldiers as they growled at the ponies and Spike viciously.
Chase, his family, and friends gasped in great shock.
"The Quinkan?" Chase asked in shock and disbelief.
"They're back?" Jade asked, equally shocked like the rest of her family.
"But how? How did they find us?" Trini asked in surprise.
"Don't matter how they found us, they found us!" Sunray said with a glare. "Now let's kick the tails out of 'em!"
Sokka turned to the students, who were quivering at the sight of the Quinkan soldiers.
"Everypony, get to a safe distance! Hurry!" Sokka ordered as the students did without hesitation.
The Pyroquin soldiers jumped down from the hole and glared at the Mane Sixteen as they glared at them. Suddenly more of the Quinkan soldiers appeared as they surrounded the Mane Sixteen.
Chase and his family lit their horns, stood on their hind legs, aura hands replacing their front hooves and dished out their respective weapons.
Sokka and Clay dished out their respective weapons as well while the others were ready to fight the Quinkan.
"Take them down!" Chase shouted, angrily.
With a battle cry, the Mane Sixteen charged at the Quinkan.
But just as if they were about to take the Quinkan down, the monsters eventually beat them to it as they punched, kicked, uppercut, and backfisted the heroes to the ground as they grunted in pain.
"Wow, those things pack a wall punch." Chase commented painfully.
"Yeah, I don't remember the Quinkan being this fast or this powerful." Starlight said with concern.
"Oh, it's only just the beginning." A sinister voice came from behind two Protoquin soldiers as they moved aside to reveal Tai Lung as he approached the scene.
"Tai Lung?!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed in shock.
"You're back?" Twilight asked in horror. "We thought you and the Quinkan were history!"
"We've only begun our new conquest to invade Equestria again, Twilight. As you can see, our soldiers have grown much stronger than ever before and you all are next to be done with." Tai Lung said deviously. "Finish them."
The Quinkan soldiers moved in to finish the heroes off when suddenly Queen Novo and Skystar swooped in to grab a few Uberquin soldiers as they growled in surprise.
"Mind if we cut in?" Queen Novo asked with a challenging smirk.
"Novo! Skystar!" Chase exclaimed in surprise and relief with the rest of his friends and family.
Ember and Grandpa Gruff flew in and punched two Protoquin soldiers aside. Then Prince Rutherford bashed his way through some of the Quinkan soldiers away with Thorax landing beside the heroes as he helped them up.
"Are you guys alright?" Thorax asked worriedly.
"We're fine now that you and the other leaders arrived." Jade replied back with a smile.
The leaders smiled towards the Mane Sixteen before they all glared at Tai Lung and his Quinkan army.
"Looks like you and the Quinkan are back, Tai Lung." Queen Novo said with a glare she sent to the anthropomorphic snow leopard. "We thought you were history."
"Well, we'd love to stay and chat. But we have an appointment with world domination." Tai Lung said with a glare he sent to the heroes and leaders.
"The Quinkan are finished! Why'd you come back anyway, Tai Lung?!" Chase demanded angrily. "So we can beat you again?!"
"There is no means of being finished, Chase Young. Look all around you." Tai Lung said with a sinister smirk. "We've been reborn, taking refuge in the mountain range. After our last battle at the Hollow Shades, the Quinkan have grown much stronger. Now, we will continue to finish what Master Zhao started long ago so you will not get any ideas of what will become of your future." He smirked. "And I wouldn't say the same for your eight misfit students."
This caused the leaders and the Mane Sixteen to gasp in horror by what he said.
"Where Yona?!" Prince Rutherford demanded angrily.
"What have you done to Smolder?!" Ember asked furiously.
"What are you doing with Silverstream?!" Queen Novo demanded in rage about her niece's safety.
"Let's just say they are with the rest of our army. And if you want to see them again, you will find them from when you first became friends the day you freed Princess Luna from Nightmare Moon." Tai Lung said to the Mane Sixteen before he tossed some smoke bombs to the ground, creating a huge cloud of smoke as the leaders and Mane Sixteen coughed.
When the smoke cleared away, Tai Lung and the Quinkan were gone.
"Oh no!" Fluttershy said with worry. "He's taken the students away from us?"
"Must've been a distraction." Queen Novo said as she and the other leaders turned to face the Mane Sixteen. "If he and the Quinkan have them, that means you all must get them back before something back happens to them."
"We'll get them back as soon as we discuss this with Chancellor Neighsay." Chase said assuringly to Queen Novo and the other leaders.
"I don't need to know." A stern voice said, gaining their attention to see Chancellor Neighsay glaring at them sternly.
"Chancellor Neighsay. We-" Twilight began but was cut off.
"I already know." Chancellor Neighsay said with a glare.
"So, sir, are you ready to discuss with the 'creatures'?" Chase asked sarcastically.
"Sarcasm doesn't amuse me, Master Chase Young." Chancellor Neighsay said dryly.
Then coming out of the school was Darkshine as he was hurt badly as the others turned to him.
"School inspector Darkshine?" Chancellor Neighsay asked in shock, "What is the meaning of this?! Why aren't you with the students in the detention class?!"
"They're gone! The students are missing!" Darkshine screamed in fear.
"We know. Tai Lung has taken them hostage." Jade said with a firm look.
The breeze blew some documents and reports off, one of them flew and hit Chancellor Neighsay's face. He took it off. He then read it.
"'Sir, it is regrettable that the School of Friendship does not meet and require the EEA policy and teaching style as it has failed and did not sit well with both teachers and students. Their own freestyle of teachings and activities have brought both interest and spirits to the students. Even without the school's lessons, the students were able to teach themselves of their friendship. Therefore, I've recommended that they make their own rules. Signed, Darkshine." Chancellor Neighsay read the report out loud.
Everypony was in shock and disbelief of what they just heard.
"Darkshine? The school inspector's recommendation for us?" Sunray asked in surprise.
"Freaky! Really freaky!" Antonio nodded in agreement.
"I did not expect that," Applejack said in surprise.
"You really meant it, Mr. Lockdown?" Fluttershy asked in surprise.
Darkshine laughed uneasily and nervously with a blush.
"Darling, that is the sweetest thing you've ever done for us." Rarity said, happily.
"And fun too! You're an okay school inspector!" Pinkie cheered happily.
"After what has happen to us and students, I'm not very sure about that," Sokka said in uncertain.
"Yes. Unfortunately, I rejected your recommendation, Lockdown!" Chancellor Neighsay exclaimed in anger and fury at Darkshine. Everyone gasped in shock and concern. He continued, "You not only have failed your mission, but also dare to make recommendation?! You dare request to use 'freestyle teachings and activity'?! Do you even know why we have strict and serious policy in the first place, Mr. Darkshine?!"
"I'm doing what's best for this school now!" Darkshine said with a glare.
"No, you don't!" Chancellor Neighsay shouted angrily, "Those rules are not only secured the safety and strict discipline to the students, but to make certain that they're equals and make a better future for Equestria! And clearly, you have failed to do so! You've been demoted, Darkshine!"
Shocked and hurt by Chancellor Neighsay's harsh words, Darkshine was saddened and disappointed. The Head of EEA swatted the badge away from the former school inspector.
"Hey! You don't have to be harsh on him," Sunray exclaimed angrily and firmly, "He did his job. He's just having trouble getting use to new style especially following your rules."
"He's right. Your EEA policy didn't actually help much." Icy said firmly.
"That is because you all failed to meet the EEA's standards!" Chancellor Neighsay exclaimed in anger at Twilight, Chase, and their friends. He continued, "I don't know what you did to him. It is unacceptable, just as much as I'm disappointed about your school!"
"I understand you're not pleased with the results. But if you give us the chance, we can prove that our teaching style has great effects on students to not only have interest in studies and willing to learn, but also become friends and work together." Twilight said with a sigh.
"There won't be any more chances…" Chancellor Neighsay said firmly, shocking Twilight, Chase, and their friends as well as the leaders. He continued angrily, "Your friends have proven to be unqualified as the teachers, disregarding the EEA policy, students' failures resulting in infighting and going missing under your noses! You have failed to convince me that the creatures have our best interest at heart. Your school is a disaster."
The leaders were furious and angered by his insults. They shouted angrily by it. Twilight, Chase, their family, and friends felt the same feelings as well.
"You're wrong!" Chase Young exclaimed in an outburst tone, "Our school is not a disaster! It has the great opportunity for all of us to work together through friendship! You just don't want to see it."
Twilight sighed again.
"Regardless of my husband's anger, he's right. Friendship isn't just for ponies! It's for all of us! It's the reason why Princess Celestia helped us reach out to all the kingdoms!" Twilight said sternly.
Chancellor Neighsay groaned in annoyance.
"And how do you know these creatures won't take what they have learned here and use it against us?" Chancellor Neighsay asked with a glare.
"Friendship is just a subject, not some kind of weapon! Are you seriously being paranoid or a fool to think?!" Chase asked in anger.
Twilight gave a firm and determined look.
"They won't, chancellor! My friends and I have befriended and helped them a lot. And they helped us too. Have you forgotten or chose to ignore it?" Twilight asked angrily as the leaders agreed with her.
"Regardless of your valid points, I've made my decision," Chancellor Neighsay said firmly and seriously.
Chancellor Neighsay turned and approached the School of Friendship. Hitting his medallion, it created bright orange colored sparks. It flowed into his horn. He fired his magical power at the school. The magical blue chains appeared and enveloped the whole school. A large magical padlock appeared and locked together with the chains against the entrance to School of Friendship.
Chancellor Neighsay turned and faced Twilight, Chase, their family, and friends.
"By the power invested in me as Head of EEA, I am shutting his school down!" She declared firmly,
Twilight, Chase, and the others were deeply shocked and disbelief of what they just saw as well as the leaders. Chancellor Neighsay has closed down her School of Friendship!
To be continued…
Author's note: Hey guys,
I'm back! Sorry for the long wait. But I had some important things to take care of like summer job hunting and apartment finding. But here's the first chapter of season 8 with a few twists and turns. Hope you like it.
Peace out!