Chapter 1: start of a new day
The sun begins to rise on over the horizon; The morning has come forth, and every pony and creature in the world is ready to rise and welcome another beautiful day. Out in the middle of the vast ocean of the world, the inhabitants of the beautiful paradise known as Tambelon Island are awakening and rising on out of their beds.
Summer has ended, and now every young pony, zebra, dragon, buffalo, changeling, griffon, and more prepare for the new school year. Grabbing their saddlebags, books, and getting cleans up by their parents, the little ones rush out and towards the school as the bells begin to ring.
It seems like this is going to be a peaceful day like any other, and nothing could be any different about it. However, high up in the golden castle at the very heart of the city and island, the Royal Family is ready to wake up and begin with the most important jobs of all: Running this very kingdom and making sure all is well.
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The Tambelon Royal Guard begin their usual patrolling of the castle, both inside and out. Their units are made up of Unicorns, Pegasai, and Earth Ponies...both mares and stallions. They wear silver armor with gold lining, are trained by the best, and sworn to protect the Royals with their lives. All seems to be quiet and safe for now.
A young sandy-coated mare, Oath Sworn, makes her way to the bedroom of the young princess, Starlight. Charged with the responsibility of protecting and watching over the young filly, the mare knocks on the bedroom door gently.
"Princess Starlight? Are you awake?" she calls out softly, but does not get a reply. The young unicorn guard knocks again but still does not get an answer. Fearing the worst, Oath pushes the door open.
The mare enters Starlight's room and looks around for the filly she hopes is safe and sound. "Starlight! Where are you?!" Oath calls out to the filly, wherever she is.
The royal bedroom, filled with many nice toys and books, appears to be quiet...until...
"BOO!!!" A voice shouts out from behind Oath...causing her to jump from the fright, "I scared you, didn't I~"
"Oh Starlight..." Oath sighs and pants a little, "You sure did..."
The little pink filly comes out from behind the door and smiles at one of the few friends she has.
Oath smiles and pats her head gently, "Oh Starlight. I loved how you surprised me, but you worried me when you didn't answer. I almost thought..."
Starlight understands and apologizes, "I'm sorry, Oath. I didn't mean to worry you or anything..."
The young unicorn guard smiles and shakes her head, "Don't worry, kiddo. All that matters is you're safe...and still full of surprises," She admits, hoping it will brighten the spirit of the filly who has been like a little sister to her.
Starlight smiles and hugs her best friend and big sister figure, "Thank you, Oath. I promise I won't worry you like that again."
Oath hugs the little princess and smiles once more, "Thank you, Starlight."
https://www.deviantart.com/law44444/art/Princess-Starlight-406754316
After the hug comes to an end, the sworn protector of the little princess turns to the door and suggests, "Shall we go get you some breakfast?"
Starlight smiles and runs passed Oath, "I'll race ya!"
The young guard giggles and follows behind her, "You're on!"
The two run down the hallway, with Starlight in the lead; Oath runs slower since she is bigger than the princess, and faster. The two run passed all the guards and towards the kitchen, where they can have a nice meal to start their day.
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Arriving into the kitchen first, Starlight bounces around in victory, "I Win! I Win!! I Win!!!"
Oath catches up and pants a little, "You sure did..." She smiles and knows that someday the two will have an official race to see who truly is the fastest. But for now, the unicorn mare is happy letting Starlight win most of the time.
As Starlight sits at the table ready for some breakfast, Oath grabs the bowl and a box of "Chimi Cherry Changas" for her to eat. She pours her a bowl with her magic and sets it before the Princess, "There ya go, kiddo."
Starlight squees and digs right into this delicious, if not sweet, cereal that was created right here in the Kingdom by a local mare who makes sweets and treats for everypony to enjoy.
As Starlight eats and Oath stands nearby, the little pony looks out the window and can barely see the citizens of the city all moving about; They are all heading off to their jobs, while the younger ones race to school. Seeing them out there, having fun and all, causes Starlight to cease eating and sigh sadly.
"What's wrong, Starlight?" Oath asks when she notices the sad expression on the princess's face.
Starlight sighs once more and feels her mind wandering...dreaming of what is out there beyond the palace walls. All her life, she has been cooped up in the castle and has never once been allowed to take a step outside; Her parents have never allowed her to leave, and they never explain why.
"Well..." Starlight mutters.
"Yes, Starlight?"
The little princess is about to answer when she sees two ponies enter the kitchen that brings a smile to her face once again, "Mommy! Daddy!"
Oath gasps and quickly turns around to kneel before the Prince and Princess, "Your Majesties!"
Princess Twilight Sparkle and Prince Courageous Heart walk over to their daughter and give her a big morning hug, to which she returns it happily.
"Good morning, my little Starlight," Princess Twilight whispers as she hugs her precious little filly.
"It is so good to see you up and about this early, sweetie," Prince Courageous expresses to his daughter as he finishes hugging her, "I hope you are ready for what today has in store."
"What do you mean, daddy?" Starlight asks her brown-coated father.
"Well, summer is over...so it is time for you to begin your next school year," Courageous reveals, "Your tutor will be here tomorrow, so you will need to gather the books you will be needing so you can get to your studies as soon as possible."
Twilight nuzzles her daughter's cheek, "That's right. You and I can do some studying in the Royal Library today. Does that sound like fun?"
Starlight was usually happy to spend time reading with her mother, but she didnt feel too thrilled. Not wanting to disappoint her mother, Starlight answers with a, "Sure, mommy."
Twilight kisses her daughter's cheek and smiles, "Alright, sweetie. Finish your breakfast, then we'll do some studying together."
Starlight nods and resumes eating her Chimi Cherry Changas as her parents prepare a nice hot meal for themselves. Usually, the Royal Cook makes their food, but they are in the mood to do it themselves this time. Twilight and Courageous make themselves a nice fruit salad together.
Starlight decides to finish quickly and leave early, especially when she sees her parents kissing. As a little filly, she finds that stuff to be gross. "Ewwwww...." she says in her head, so they dont hear her. She got in trouble once for making a comment like that.
Oath Sworn bows before the Royals and follows Starlight as she heads down the hallway to the Library.
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Upon arriving at the library, Oath follows Starlight inside and feels the need to ask, "Forgive me, Starlight...but what is there something troubling you?"
Starlight just walks over to the window and sits down, "I...I dont know if I want to talk about it..."
The unicorn guard understands and turns, "Alright. Well, I should get going...since I'm sure your mother, the Princess, would like to spend some time with you reading."
Starlight nods and turns to her best friend, "I'll see you later, Oath."
The protective sister-figure bows before the little princess and leaves the library...and will be as nearby as she can; Her duty to protect the daughter of Tambelon's rulers is a role she will never forget nor forsake. Oath stands outside the doors, while Starlight resumes staring out the window...into a world she may never know.
"Starlight, dear?" Princess Twilight Sparkle calls to her daughter as she enters the library, where so many books from across the world are stored, "Starlight?"
The little princess is lost in thought, staring out the window...watching the ponies and others play and walk around. From the look of things, they are having so much fun...whereas she is trapped inside.
"Starlight?!" Twilight tries harder to get her daughters attention as she walks up to her.
She snaps out of her train of thought and turns to the beautiful mare before her, "Oh...mommy. I...uh..."
"Something on your mind, dear?" Twilight asks as she embraces her little filly.
Starlight hugs her mother, showing that she loves her very much as she does to her. Yet, what she sees beyond the window of the library, makes her wish even more so that she was out there...playing with other fillies and colts, "Mommy?"
"Yes, Starlight?"
"Can I...go out and play..." She looks up at her mother with pleading eyes,"...please?"
Twilight looks out the window and is beginning to understand what her daughter is thinking. However, she cannot grant that to her...because of the dangers that may lie out there, even in this paradise of theirs.
"Mommy?"
Twilight then decides that maybe her daughter would enjoy reading a story with her...and maybe putting off any studying for now; Perhaps that will help take her mind off the outside world. "Well...why don't we read a story together...then maybe I'll let you go join your father," Twilight makes her a deal and promise, "I think he is spending some time outside in the gardens."
Starlight likes that idea, and runs over to the shelves to grab one of her favorite books. Unfortunately, the one she seeks is too high up. The little alicorn tries to use her magic...but it is still not fully developed yet. She tries harder, but nothing happens.
The little princess tries flapping her wings to reach the higher shelf. She manages to get up to the sixth highest and grab the book with her mouth. However, she loses balance from the weight of the book and is about to fall, but feels herself being levitated by her mother's magic.
"Wha...?"
"Careful there~" Twilight playfully says as she helps her daughter back down. The beautiful alicorn mare places her precious daughter on her back and then walks over to the couch where they can read, "Found what you want to read, sweetie?"
"Yes, mommy," Starlight hugs her mother's head from behind and whispers, "I love you, mommy."
"I love you too, my little Starlight." She expresses softly as she sits upon the comfy couch, "So...what shall we read today, my dear?"
"This one!" Starlight lets her mother take hold of the book so that she may see what book she has chosen.
Twilight smiles when she sees the book is titled Derring Do and the Quest for the Sapphire Stone. She recognizing this great book made by an author who is also the main character, "I remember reading this a lot time ago...
"Can we read it together?"
"Of course we can, sweetie." Twilight approves and lets her daughter snuggle beside her as she opens the book and holds it open with her magic.
Starlight snuggles close to the mother she loves and lets her start first, and will go next after the first page. This becomes a fun and perfect way for the little filly to improve her reading skills, while spending quality time with her mommy, Twilight Sparkle.
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After a few hours of reading with her mother, Starlight is later given permission to go spend time with her father in the gardens. Oath walks her through the castle, and down into the courtyard. Once they arrive, the unicorn guard remains by the door while the little filly runs up to greet the best dad in the world.
"Daddy!" Starlight calls out as she runs to him.
Courageous turns and kneels down, embracing his little girl once she arrives, "Hello, my little Starlight. What brings you out here?"
Starlight breaks the hug gently and answers, "Mommy says I could spend some time with you in the gardens."
Courageous stands back up and nods, "That sounds like a wonderful idea, sweetie. What would you like to do?"
Starlight smiles then mutters something, "Can we...do...well..."
"What was that, Starlight?"
"Can we...go explore...the city?" He looks up at her father, hoping he will take her for a ride on his back, around the kingdom in the air, "Please?"
Courageous Heart sighs sadly and shakes his head, "I am sorry, my dear...but we cannot."
"But...But why not?"
Courageous holds up his hoof, "Please, Starlight...do not argue."
Starlight feels her spirit drop, and ceases talking about it; She knows not to argue with her parents, who love and protect her with all their heart, "Yes, Daddy..."
He rubs her little head gently and smiles, "Don't feel sad. There is plenty to do here in the garden."
"Like...what?" She questions.
Courageous smiles and says, "Follow me."
Starlight walks beside her father as they way through the gardens together.
After a little while of walking, enjoying the flowers and small trees, they soon come to a beautiful glowing tree that rests in the center. It is so lovely and majestic, Starlight wonders what it is; She has seen it before, but never told of it.
"Daddy, what is that tree?" The little filly asks.
"That, my dear Starlight, is the Tree of Harmony." Courageous explains the history of this wonder of the world, "The Light works in mysterious ways. It is said that when a Tree of Harmony appears in a certain place in the world, it marks that area as a place where friendship and peace will rise someday."
"Really?"
"Yes, my dear," Courageous proudly admits, "There are very few in the world: One of them resides here...while another one is deep within Equestria. The Light chose our island as the beacon of hope eons ago...and it later became a home for all creatures to live in peace. Until that day...when the Darkness came to take it all away; It feared this place as a danger, and succeeded in removing all harmony. The tree remained, but it no longer glowed...so long as the presence of evil remained as well. But luckily, the citizens of this island were able to take a small piece of the tree with them...and later use it to help forge the Elements of Harmony, and use them to defeat the Darkness...in a great battle that I took part in."
Courageous continues on about how long after the battle ended and the six great species went their separate ways, the Elements eventually disappeared and found their way to the uninhabited continent of Equestria, where they rested within the next Tree of Harmony that resided within. They remained until Equestria was founded, and its ruler Princess Celestia, discovered the tree...as well as the Elements.
The rest...was history.
Starlight sits next to her father, and finds this story interesting, "What happened next?"
Courageous continues, "Well, Tambelon remained in Darkness for a very long time...until your mother and I freed it some time ago; Not too long before you were born in fact. Now, with the island restored and the tree glowing brightly with the Light once more...peace and harmony will continue to shine forever within our home."
Starlight is moved by this story and smiles, "Wow..."
Courageous is happy to have taught is daughter a great lesson in history, "I am happy you enjoyed that story, sweetie. Now, when you start your studies tomorrow, you will know this for when you get to the section on Tambelon History."
Starlight's smile goes away when the mention of "studying" comes up. She does loves to study, but spending another year inside the castle with a private tutor instead of going to school like all the other fillies and colts, make her feel sad...and trapped.
"Come on, Starlight. Let us explore another part of the garden while we still have time."
The little princess nods and follows her father close...while thoughts of the outside still remain strong within her mind.
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Later that evening, as the sun slowly begins to set, the Royal Family sits at the dinner table ready for a good meal before bed. Prince Courageous and his wife, Princess Twilight, sit together, while their daughter sits nearby.
The chef and servants bring the family a nice hot plate of soup...made from the freshest vegetables on the island. Next, they had some warm rolls and a nice slice of hot apple pie. Such a wonderful meal for the beloved Royal Family of Tambelon.
As the servants leave, the Prince and Princess begin to eat. However, as they enjoy the delicious soup, they notice Starlight has not so much as taken a bite. This worries them a bit.
"Starlight, dear? Why are you not eating?" Twilight asks her daughter, "Is there something wrong with your food?"
The little filly shakes her head, "No..."
"No? Then what is troubling you, dear?" Courageous asks, hoping to help his precious daughter.
Starlight wants to answer, but she knows her parents will no doubt refuse what she wishes to ask them for. She hangs her head and hops up out of her chair, "I'm just...not hungry..."
"Starlight..." Twilight tries to get her daughter's attention gently.
"I'm...I'm sorry, mommy. I just...I just wanna go to bed..." She sniffs as she leaves the dining room, with her ears and her head down low.
As she walks off to her bedroom, Twilight and Courageous sense that something is troubling their daughter. But, they get the feeling they already know the answer: Starlight wishes to explore the island outside the castle...and meet new friends.
Courageous tries to talk to his wife about it, but gets a quick reply back:
"Courageous...you know we can't do that..." Twilight answers sadly. She has to remain true to the vow she made to keep her daughter safe.
The stallion prince comes to his wife's side and holds her close in his warm, loving embrace, "I know...but...is it really fair to our little Starlight?"
Twilight sighs and shakes her head, "No..." She looks up at her husband and looks so sad, "I just...I fear something bad may happen if we let her out there..."
Courageous hugs her gently, hoping to put her fears to rest, "I feel the same, my love. But...we have not see the witch in years. Plus...well...just look at her..." Courageous reveals what he as seen, "She wants to see what is out there; To go to school like all the other fillies and colts. She no doubt...wants to make some friends."
Twilight Sparkle feels that her husband speaks the truth. She also feels the irony in all this, "It's funny: When I was young, I never thought I needed any friends, except for my brother. Yet our daughter, really desires to have some friends in her life...even at such a younger age than me."
Courageous smiles as he agrees, "Yeah. I honestly felt the same way when I was young too. Only difference was, I could leave and seek out friends whenever I wished. Starlight however...well..."
"We are keeping her inside the palace, with no plans to let her leave...at least not now anyway," Twilight confesses. She knows she has done everything right raising her filly: Giving her a good life, education, toys, some ponies within their family to be her best friends. Yet, she now realizes that what Starlight really needs...are friends her own age. "You're right, my love..."
"Twilight?"
The beautiful alicorn princess nods her head, admitting what she should have a long time ago, "I think it's time I renew a promise I once made...to my very best friends."
Courageous smiles and embraces his wife once more, "I think it is also time to make a quick trip to the Tambelon Elementary School..."
The two kiss for a moment, then they leave the kitchen to get started making preparations for tomorrow...which they plan to surprise Starlight with before she goes to bed tonight.
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As night arrives, little Starlight blows out her candle and climbs into bed with her favorite doll: Smarty Pants. She feels bad leaving the table like that, and possibly upsetting her parents. She sits on her bed, and almost feels like crying.
"Oh, Smarty Pants..." Starlight sniffs as she hugs her doll, "I wish...I wish...I wish I had...some friends," She whispers, hoping that her wish will be answered.
Suddenly, there is a knock on her door and she answers, "Yes?"
The door opens and her parents stand there, "Hello, Starlight."
"Hi, Mommy. Hi, Daddy." She smiles a little.
"We, uh, came to tuck you in..." Twilight carries a slice of apple pie with her, "...and bring you dessert, so you dont go hungry." She sets the plate beside her bed on her nightstand, along with a glass of warm milk.
"Thank you, Mommy."
Courageous sits on the bed with his wife and says, "Starlight..."
"Yes, Daddy?" The little filly answers as she eats her pie.
Courageous and Twilight decide to wait until their daughter finishes, then they tell her the surprise that they have finished preparing her for.
"I'm...I'm going to school?!!" Starlight cannot believe what she just heard, and has to ask again, "Y-Y-You really m-m-mean it?"
Twilight smiles and nods, "Yes, my dear. After your father and I talked it over, we decided that it is time you got to attend a real school...and meet some new friends."
"That's right," Courageous agrees then confesses, "We have been keeping you inside the palace too long...and we saw that it was making you unhappy; That is the last thing we would ever want, sweetie. Now, we wish to give you this wonderful opportunity to be with other ponies your age...and learn what friendship is all about."
Starlight is so overcome with joy in her heart, tears pour down her eyes. Her wish has come true...and it was her parents that made it possible. She quickly throws her arms around both of them as best she can, and cries out, "THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! I LOVE YOU MOMMY! I LOVE YOU DADDY!!"
The two proud parents of this wonderful little filly hugs her back and they both reply softly together, "We love you too, Starlight."
They remain embracing each other for a while, knowing everything is going to be alright.
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After tucking their daughter in, making sure she has her Smarty Pants with her, and kissing her goodnight...Twilight Sparkle and Courageous Heart wish Starlight sweet dreams. They close her door and head to bed.
As Starlight lays in her bed, with her doll keeping her company, her thoughts wander on all that she will encounter on her first day at school tomorrow; Plus, all the friends she could make. It is all so exciting to think about...but for now, sleep is calling her.
She closes her eyes, and dreams sweetly until the morning arrives
TO BE CONTINUED...
"
Chapter 2 first day of school
The sun begins to rise and another day is ready to start. Oath Sworn walks down the hallway of Tambelon Castle and to the bedroom of the little princess Starlight. She opens the door and sees the filly still asleep. Oath smiles at how peaceful she looks cuddling Smarty Pants while she sleeps, but has to wake her in order for her to get ready for her first day of school.
"Starlight..." Oath Sworn whispers as she gently nudges the sleeping filly princess, "...it is time to get up and go to-"
The eyes of the little pink pony shoot open and she hops out of bed with her Smarty Pants. She then dashes out of the bedroom, leaving Oath behind...in utter surprise.
"-school?"
Starlight races to the kitchen to make herself some breakfast. But once she gets there, she sees that the chef has already made her a quick meal for her to eat. Since school is starting in less than an hour, she has to get ready as quickly as possible. The little filly sits at the table and eats her bowl of hot oatmeal, along with some apple juice.
As Starlight eats her breakfast as fast as she can, her parents walk into the kitchen to greet their little school filly before she leaves for her first day.
"Good morning, Mommy and Daddy!" Starlight greets them excitedly as she finishes her meal.
"Good morning, sweetie. Are you ready for your first day of school?" Prince Courageous asks his daughter.
Hopping out of her chair, little Starlight gives them both a big hug and nod, "Yes!!" She screams with joy.
As she hugs her precious daughter, Twilight magical places her old, but renewed, saddlebag onto Starlight's back. She took the liberty of filling it with her school books, along with some quills and ink, "Then you will be needing...this."
The cute little filly gasps as she sees that she has her very own saddlebag now, with all the material a student needs, "Oh Mommy...thank you so much. I love it!"
"You are welcome, my little Starlight. You now have all you need to make your first day of school the best."
Since she was once a student like her daughter is soon to be, Twilight spent most of last night gathering all that Starlight will need for school. In truth, she did repack the bag many times over after checking the check list over twenty times before making it all perfect. An old habit of organizing that she still carries today.
"Not everything..." Courageous corrects as he puts Smarty Pants inside Starlight's saddlebag, "You don't want to forget your favorite friend, sweetie."
Starlight smiles as her father places her doll right in the side pocket. As of now, the little school filly has everything she needs for her first day at school. She hugs her parents once more and says, "Mommy...Daddy...you are the best parents in the world!"
Twilight and Courageous feel so happy hearing their daughter say something so kind to them. They just know she is going to have the best time of her life at school, and meet some new friends to help make her life that more exciting.
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At the Front Gate of Tambelon Castle, one of the smaller royal carriages is pulled up by two of the Unicorn Guard. They are ready to escort the princess, and her protector Oath Sworn, to the Tambelon Elementary school...within the next thirty minutes before the school bell rings and class begins.
Both Twilight and Courageous wish they escort her personally, but they do not wish to grab so much attention for their daughter...plus, they have other duties that need their urgent attention. But before being allowed to leave, Twilight spends a few minutes brushing her daughter's mane, just to make sure she looks nice and pretty for her first time outside of the castle.
"Mommy..." Starlight fusses, "My mane is fine..."
"You need to look much more than fine, dear," Twilight keeps at it, trying to get her daughter's mane just right.
"Daddy..." Starlight complains, hoping he will help.
"Come on, dear. Our little Starlight needs to hurry if she is going to get to school on time; Being late on the first day is never a good thing. After all, you know all about what happens when one is tardy~" He teases his beautiful wife.
Twilight blushes and gently bumps his shoulder with her hoof, "Oh, stop it~" She giggles as she rolls her eyes.
Starlight is helped onto the carriage and sits beside her best friend Oath Sworn, who still has her duty to watch over the little princess and protect her at all times.
"Have fun on your first day, sweetie." Twilight says, and hopes that she will.
"Use your best manners, and remember your manners," Courageous informs his daughter.
"I promise," Starlight reassures, "When I come home, I'll tell you all about my first day."
The two proud parents cannot wait to hear it all when she does. They then turn to the one pony they chose out of all others, and hope that even with this new change, she will still be the loyal protector and friend of their precious daughter.
Oath Sworn salutes the Prince and Princess and sits tall and strong, "I promise she will be safe under my watch, your Majesties!"
The two ponies happily approved of the vow that Oath made years ago, and they do the same to the one she is making now. They know their daughter will be safe...and will enjoy seeing the rest of the city in the days to come.
Princess Twilight and Prince Courageous wave goodbye as the carriage takes off, riding out of the Main Gate and into the city that Starlight is now seeing for the first time in her life.
To her, this is going to be the beginning...of something very magical.
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Tambelon Elementary School: fine, well built, and majestic; It is perhaps one of the best schools out of the few all over the island. Many young fillies and colts, of all species, attend here to get the best education that the city promises to offer.
As most of the students walk through the front gate and into the school, some arrive at the gate in their own personal carriages; Most of these students come from rich families, and prefer to go to school in style.
The other students arrive via the "school carriage", which is long and yellow, pulled by six ponies. This is the best method of transportation when getting around the city or anywhere else on the island. Some come all the way from Applelulu and Cumulai to attend the schools in Tambelon city, because of how popular and well established the education offers here.
As the students and teachers walk into the building to begin their first day, the Royal Carriage pulls up to the gate and Starlight and Oath hop off. They are both in awe at the magnificent structure they see before their eyes...while the students are in awe at the royal carriage that rides off. To them, they are not sure what is going on, but they hurry to class before the bell rings.
"Wow..." Starlight mutters, "It is so beautiful..."
"It sure is, Starlight," Oath agrees with the young princess as she stares at the school, "We should hurry inside and get you to class, kiddo."
Starlight agrees and they both walk on through the gate and into the building that is covered in a wonderful gold and red design, with hearts and butterflies all decorated around it. This place is already feeling like a warm place, full of happiness and learning.
The little princess can already see this is going to be a joyous day for her.
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Upon walking into the entrance hall, Starlight looks around and notices many pictures and awards all over. She walks up to them and reads what they were given for. Starlight sees that this school has earned many achievements in Spelling Bees and "Best Artwork for the Youthful."
"Wow...so pretty..." Starlight mutters, as she stares at the trophy in front of her...seeing her own reflection as well, "...and so shiny."
"Ya like dat one?" Came a voice from behind Starlight.
She gasps and turns around, only to see a pink coated filly with a bow in her braided mane, "Who...Who are you?"
"Names Candy Apple, and dat dere trophy yuv been lookin at was won by me last year..." She says with a little pride, "...for winnin da Spellin Bee."
"Really? That is so neat," Starlight praises with great interest.
"Yep, I won it by studin hard and doin da best I could," Candy confesses truthfully, "...plus I had help from mah momma...who teaches here."
Starlight smiles and nods, "Oh? Your mommy is a teacher here?"
"Darn right...and ah take it yer new here?"
"Uh...well...yes." Starlight admits, a little nervous at first.
"Well, Allow me ta be da first ta welcome ya to da Tambelon Elementary School...uh...what was yer name again?"
"Oh! My name is Starlight," The little filly answers politely.
Candy reaches for Starlight's hoof, grabs it, and shakes it, "A pleasure ta meet ya!"
Starlight shakes her hoof in return and smiles. She is amazed how strong a grip this slightly larger filly has, but is happy to meet a nice filly her own age for the first time in her life.
Suddenly, the bell rings and Candy gasps, "Ah ponyfeathers! Class is startin and if I'm late again, my momma is gonna give me a big lecture after school ends!" She takes off but turns back to Starlight, "Ya'll better be gettin on ta class too!"
Starlight nods and waves goodbye as Candy dashes off, leaving the little filly alone in the entrance hallway...until Oath walks up to her.
"Ready to go to your classroom, kiddo?" The sworn protector asks.
"Yes!" She agrees happily.
Oath smiles and walks with the little princess down the hallway and to one of the classrooms that she has been assigned too. Starlight is so excited: Already she has meet a kind pony upon entering the building, and cannot wait to see what lies beyond this door leading into the classroom.
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"Alright, my little ponies...Settle down!~" The purple coated mare with the flowers for a cutie mark announces to her students, "Time to take your seats, because class is starting now~"
The nearly one dozen fillies and colts within this classroom sit at their desks and quiet down.
With a thankful nod, the teacher greets her wonderful students as she does everyday, "Good Morning, class."
"Good morning, Mrs. Apple!~" the students reply together happily.
"Today, we have a lot to do...but first, we have a new student joining our class," She announces as she turns her attention to the door.
The students all turn their attention to the door as well and watch as a little pink coated filly enters the classroom. She is a little nervous, but is given a little bump from behind by her sworn bodyguard.
"It's alright. Come on in..." Mrs. Apple says in a comforting voice.
The little pony named Starlight enters the classroom, and stands before the entire class of other fillies and colts her age. She is still nervous, but feels a little better seeing the teacher being so kind and welcoming.
Mrs. Apple smiles and turns to her class, "Everypony, I would like you all to meet Princess Starlight."
The entire classroom gasps when they hear this; They cannot believe that the daughter of Tambelon's rulers is here in their classroom. They begin to mummer among themselves.
"Now now, everypony. Settle down," Mrs. Apple politely asks, "Yes, she is the young princess...but treat her like you would your own fellow classmates: with respect and kindness. Let us all help make her first time at Tambelon Elementary as special as your own first days were. How about it, class?"
The students all smile and agree at once, "Yes, Mrs. Apple!~"
Upon hearing this, Starlight begins to feel better and not as scared as she thought this would be. So far, the little pony's first day is turning out to be just fine.
Oath Sworn leaves the classroom and heads off, but will always remain as nearby as possible should Starlight be in danger. The little princess is left with the teacher as she helps her to her desk.
"I am so happy to have you in my class, Starlight," The cheerful teacher expresses, "My name is Cheerilee Apple...but you may call me Mrs. Apple."
Starlight nods as she arrives at her desk, and sits in it. She places her saddlebag next to her chair and turns to the teacher, "Thank you, Mrs. Apple. You are very kind."
"You are welcome, and thank you so much," She expresses her gratitude, "If you need anything, just ask me."
Starlight nods and smiles as Mrs. Apple returns to her own desk at the front. However, all the students are staring at her; They all are amazed to how she is a princess, and hope to get to know her better soon.
"Alright, my little ponies..." Cherrilee gets their attention, "There will be plenty of time to talk with our new student later. Right now, we need to get started on today's lesson."
The students all turn to the front, get out their books and quills, and get ready to take notes on whatever subject Mrs. Apple has ready for them.
Starlight pulls out her own material, and is ready to do her best. After all the tutoring she has received in the past few years within the castle, learning at a real school is already something she cannot wait to see more of.
************************************
After a few hours into the school day, Cheerilee ends the current lesson for now, and allows the students to chat with Starlight; Getting to know her is always the best way to make her feel more welcomed and help her make some friends. They all take turns asking her questions on what her life is like in the palace, and on what being royalty is like.
Starlight answers all the questions as best she can...until a familiar filly gets her turn to ask:
"So, what do ya think of Tambelon Elementary so far, Starlight?" Asks the one that little princess met earlier this morning: Candy Apple.
Starlight smiles at the young earth pony and answers, "I think it is amazing: Everypony is so nice to me, and I love learning in a classroom better than in the castle library."
"Well, dis school has its own library too, ya know," Candy informs her new friend with a smile, "Its probably not as big as yer own, but it has plenty of fun books ta read-"
"Yeah! Especially the ones on Derring Do!" A blue coated colt interrupts nearby in his desk, "She is one cool pony, just like my mother!
"Oh...who are you?" Starlight asks. She did notice him in class earlier, but never got his name.
"Names Gust. I happen to be the best in all of the school," He brags proudly.
"Yeah...fer runnin yer mouth off!" Candy mocks playfully and laughs.
The other students laugh too, making the young colt blush nervously. "Very funny, Candy," He says sarcastically, "Your just jealous of my coolness and speed."
Candy smiles and rolls her eyes, "Yeah yeah, yer just tryin ta be cool for da new kid...but we already know just how "fast" ya are, Gusty."
Gust's face turns red again when Candy calls him "Gusty". 'Don't call me that..." He grumbles.
Starlight giggles at the conversation the two are having.
"What's so funny...?" The confused Gust asks.
"Oh, i'm sorry. It just...sounded really funny; Your conversation with Candy, I mean. Plus, I think Gusty is a cute and cool name."
Gust blushes a little, "Really? Well...thanks." He smiles and accepts, "I usually thought it was a stupid name that Candy calls me for fun, but if you like it, then I dont mind being called that."
Candy smirks, "So, yer okay with her callin ya Gusty?"
Gust turns to his best friend and reassures her, "You can call me Gusty too, Candy."
She smiles and is happy to be allowed the same privilege as their new friend.
"You know something...I like you, Starlight; You are a cool pony in my book," Gust admits, "In fact, you are like...20% cooler than when I first met you."
"Really...?"
"That's right!" Gust holds out his hoof, "If you ever need a friend, who will be there to help you always like I am with Candy, I am the colt to trust."
Candy puts her hoof out too, "I'll be yer friend too, Starlight. That is a promise I'm makin right here n' now."
Starlight does not know what to say; She feels so happy and honored that two ponies here wish to be her best friends. She happily places her hoof on top of the others and smiles, "Thank you, both of you. I promise to be the best friend I can be to you both...and others as well."
With that, the two ponies welcome a new friend into their lives, and cannot wait to see what the rest of the day will bring for them.
**************************************
After lunch and more of class pass by, it is time for recess.
The students all rush out onto the playground where they can play ball, hopscotch, jump rope, and even play on the jungle gym and swing set.
"I got us a ball!" Gust informs Candy and Starlight as he flies back over to them very fast, after grabbing a ball from the bin nearby.
"Wow...you are a fast flyer," Starlight confesses from what she just saw.
"Thanks. I learned from the best: my mother and my father," Gust brags on, "They happen to be the captains of the Wonderbolts."
"Really?!" Starlight is surprised that Gust is related to the ones that lead the best flyers in all of the island, "I've heard of them before; They are the best flyers in all of Tambelon."
"Yep, they sure are!" Gust brags once more, "When I grow up, I plan to attend the Wonderbolt Academy...and be the Number One best flyer in all of the world...just like my mother!"
"Ya sure like ta brag a lot, Gusty," Candy admits, "But ya got a long way before ya got a change ta be da best. Even I have a long way ta go before ah can be a strong apple buckin pony like da rest of mah family."
The blue colt nods and agrees with his best friend.
"Apple bucking?" Starlight questions, not quite sure what it means.
"Yeah," Candy replies and explains, "Mah family and some of mah relatives all live in Applelulu...north of here. We have da largest crop of apples as far as the eye can see. We are strong, hardworkin ponies that harvest da best apples ya'll have ever tasted!"
"She is right. The apples that come from there are the best!" Gust approves and supports.
Starlight is impressed by both of her friends: Gust's family runs the Wonderbolt Academy...while Candy's family runs the great farming community north of the city. She is learning so much from them, and finds it exciting with each new discovery.
After getting to know them better, Starlight talks a little about her life in the palace. Both Candy and Gust fine it all inspiring, and continue to listen.
********************************************
Eventually, the three move on to playing with the ball, bouncing it back and forth between each other. They giggle as they go and have a fun time.
As the three bounce the ball back to each other with their heads, Candy hits it a little too hard and it flies over Starlight's head.
"Mah bad..."
"Don't worry. I'll get it," Starlight reassures her friend and runs over to pick it up. However, once the little filly gets over to the ball, she sees somepony place their hoof on top of it...preventing her from retrieving it. Starlight slowly looks up and sees a light pink filly with jewelry on...along with an expression that makes her a little nervous, as well as frightened. Two other ponies are standing beside her...each wearing a shiny necklace.
The other students all gasp and cease what they are doing, and watch what is going on with the new student and the three most popular ponies in all of the school.
"Well well well...what do we have here, girls?" The one in the middle, the leader no doubt, asks her friends.
"Looks like the new filly..." The white filly answers.
"...hanging out with a couple of "blank flanks"," the purple filly finishes.
The one in the middle walks slowly around Starlight and looks her over, "You're right. But, she is not just any filly. She is...the princess."
The other students who have yet to know of this gasp as Starlight is revealed to be the young princess of Tambelon.
"Um..who...who are you?" Starlight asks nervously.
Crown snorts and stands proudly by her friends, "I happen to be Crown Jewel, daughter of the wealthiest family in all of Tambelon." She then points to the purple filly with the braided mane on her left, "These are my friends: Beryl..." She then turns to the white filly with the same style braid on her right, "...and Pearl."
"Nice...to meet you," Starlight holds her hoof out to greet them properly and politely, but Crown just stares at it, "Hmph...I have to ask why one with your standing is wasting her time with a bunch of peasants?"
"Or as we say: Blank Flanks!~" The twin sisters mock Candy and Gust, while giggling with such cruelty.
The two grumble and hate being teased on how they have not received their cutie marks yet. Many of the other students, who have not earned theirs yet, feel the same way. Those with cutie marks are not that much different, since they are judged on where their families stand in the ways of wealth.
"But...they are my friends," Starlight replies.
"Friends?!" Crown laughs at that, "Why would somepony like you want to hang out with them?!" Crown snorts as she shows off her expensive jewelry that her daddy bought her, "A princess should not bother spending time with the wrong sort."
"What do you mean?"
"Oh please, isnt it obvious?" Crown tries to explain again, "Somepony like you should be hanging out with the cool and popular ponies. Not these babies..."
"Who are you calling babies?!" Gust snaps.
Candy puts a hoof out to stop him, not wanting her friend to start something that might lead to him getting into trouble; She knows how Crown works and how she can get both her and Gust into trouble.
Starlight is shocked that Crown is treating her new friends like this.
"So, what do you say, your highness?" Crown asks, expecting an answer, "We dont usually welcome Blank Flanks, but we are willing to make an exception for you. Join our group, and we can give you an early demonstration of what it is like to rule. After all, we practically run this school ourselves."
"Yeah~" The twins confirm together.
Everypony stays quiet as they await to see what Starlight is going to do: Will she choose to side with Crown Jewel, or with the friends she has made.
It takes Starlight only ten seconds to decide: She looks back at the two ponies she has had fun hanging out with, and enjoyed their company. She is also sad that to see them getting picked on by Crown and her friends. After all she has been taught about Friendship by her mother and father, Starlight knows the answer to this.
"No..." She mutters.
"What?" Crown blurts when she hears this.
Starlight turns from Crown Jewel and walks back over to stand with Gust and Candy, "I said...No! I don't wish to be apart of your group...if all you do is make fun and tease others. I would rather stay with the friends I have made on my first day of school."
Both Candy and Gust are surprised. Most never refuse nor stand up to Crown like this, but they are so grateful that their new best friend remains a true friend to them. They return the favor by standing next to her, backing her up.
"Hmph...if that is what you want, then fine!" Crown snaps, "But know this: If you wish to be a blank flank like them, you'll be treated as one; Princess or not!"
"Yeah!!" Beryl and Pearl retort at once.
Starlight has made her decision, and does not plan to back down now, "Then I'll take it."
"Me too!" Candy joins in, supporting her new best friend.
"Same here!" Gust lends his as well.
The other students are surprised that Starlight is standing up to Crown, as well as refusing her offer. They may not know what to think on that now, but what they do know is that the little princess is very brave...especially when it comes to standing up for her real friends.
"Come on, girls. We have more important things to attend to than being around Blank Flanks!" Crown says in such a prissy tone. She turns and walks away.
Beryl and Pearl follow suite and walk away as well, following their friend.
With them gone and the students returning to their playtime, Candy and Gust turn to Starlight...and are so amazed on what she just did.
"Well I'll be a fish out of a barrel! I aint never seen nopony stand up ta Crown like dat before!" Candy says with such excitement and wonder.
"Yeah!" Gust agrees, "I almost thought you were going to join them in order to save yourself from getting picked on daily."
"Gust!" Candy bumps his side with her elbow.
"Oww..." The little colt grunts, "I was just saying..."
"It's alright," Starlight reassures, "I know joining them would have saved me from that...but...what kind of friend would I be if i turned my back on the friends I met today? A true friend would help their real friends out, not abandon them to join up with some bullies. You two welcomed me when I first got here, and you made my first day at school...the best day of my life."
Both ponies smile and are so happy to have helped Starlight as she has helped them. The young Princess is a true, best friend to both Gust and Candy...and they are all so happy to have met her.
*******************************************
Soon, the bell rings and recess is over. All the students put away the balls and other toys, and return inside to continue the rest of the school day...which this has a few hours left.
As Starlight heads inside, along with her friends Candy Apple and Gust, another best friend of the little princess watches them from nearby, while writing a letter to the Prince and Princess...on the lesson of friendship that their daughter has learned today.
"Starlight..." Oath Sworn says to herself as she finishes the letter, "You have grown so much since I was first assigned to watch over you as your protector. Now, you have taken a big step...and are discovering what friendship is all about. I am proud of you...as your parents are."
With the letter finished, Oath wraps it up and uses her magic to send it off to the palace...where the Royal family awaits to read it.
*****************************************
Inside Tambelon Palace, Princess Twilight Sparkle and Prince Courageous Heart are relaxing in the lounging room with their friends. Six best friends decided to pay a visit when they heard that Twilight was letting her daughter go to school. Plus, they have not spent time together in almost a month, and it felt like time to have a reunion.
Just then, a letter magically appears before Twilight and Courageous. They unfold it quickly and read it.
After finishing, they both smile and read it out loud for their friends to hear.
Dear Princess Twilight and Prince Courageous,
I am happy to report that your daughter, Starlight, is having the most wonderful time here at Tambelon Elementary. She has not only done well with her studies and showing good manners, but she has made herself some friends: Their names are Candy Apple and Gust.
Also, she has learned a valuable lesson on Friendship: There comes a time when one must decide which path to take that seems best for them...but there is also a time when to choose right from wrong. Starlight has shown what it means to be a true friend, and stand by those who are her real friends.
Your daughter is going to do just fine here at school, as well as with the friends she has made today and those that will come in the days ahead.
-Your faithful servant and sworn protector of the young princess Starlight,
-Oath Sworn
As Twilight finishes reading the letter with her husband, she sets it down and smiles at her beloved. Both she and Courageous are so happy to hear their daughter is doing well in school, as well as making friends in the process.
"I am so happy for her...and so glad we allowed her to attend school after all," Twilight confesses as she blinks a tear.
"Me too, my love. I get the feeling she is going to be just fine," Courageous agrees as he hugs his precious wife.
"Ah am as happy as an Apple dat yer daughter is friends with mah niece," Applejack admits as sits with her friends on the comfy rugs.
"And my son too," Rainbow Dash adds in.
"Oh yes," Fluttershy admits, "I am so happy...I...I just don't know what to say."
"Well, I know that our children are all going to get along just fine," The beautiful Rarity believes as she looks to her husband, "Right, Spikey-Wikey?"
The purple and green dragon smiles and nods, "Absolutely!" He nuzzles his beloved mare as they cuddle on the rug.
"Yeah! Oh, and they should all come down to Sugarcane Lane for a treat!!!" Pinkie Pie suggests with much excitement, "I'd love for them to try out my latest milkshake creation!!! Well, it is more of Inkie's creation although I helped her make it and Blinkie mixed it all together and..." She continues on as the others giggle.
As the group of best friends all sit around together, chatting and reminiscing on their past adventures, Twilight and Courageous relax and cuddle as they think of the adventures their daughter and all her friends will have soon. There are so many places to explore on the Island, and they plan to show it all to Starlight.
The Magic of Friendship continues on today...and into the bright and shining future.
"
