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Twilight Makes a FRIENDSHIP SCHOOL?!?! | My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic Season 8 Episode 1 & 2 REACTION + Discussion

Twilight Makes a FRIENDSHIP SCHOOL?!?! | My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic Season 8 Episode 1 & 2 REACTION + Discussion

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Welp... i told you to take your time 😅 yeah... sometimes it needs to take stuff from the real world to tell a story (And the real world often obviously tells the best stories 😅) I like your comparison between Celestia and Twilight, you are right about that 🤔 Yeah maybe 😋

DeViruZz.eXe

Maybe too fast since I’m behind and moving forward at the same time 😭😂 I like the way you broke down the different schools of thought (pun unintended). Twilights can be seen as the progressive transformative future as they apply what they have learned throughout the series while Neighsay represents the old fashioned and outdated prejudices. And you’re right that there could be more of a reactionary decision from him but as we have had other species like dragons and changelings attack and always talked about in devious ways (before everything transpired) and the movie, he could see that as reaffirming his beliefs. While an awful character, I think he showcases a very common world view we see. And obviously this would upset people but this show also tackled communism so…. 😂😂😂 I agree! I love how explorative and how much diversity the young six allows the show to be. It also can create allies and even make the world much more peaceful. Need to think about the bigger picture here! The mane 6 being teachers is an…. Interesting direction. I can see this go wrong and right. Friendship cannot be taught in educational system as we saw they connected by being outside and allowing each others perspective to impact them. But I think as long as they mention they have replacements or need to take a leave, it can potentially not interfere. I agree with celestia. I think she partakes in it to keep the old traditional heart of education in place and also to have some order vs twilight taking the more progressive and complex approach. But also she’s more educational vs the compassion and social importance that twilight is implementing. While there could be some issues, I loved what these episodes brought us! New species, opening up the world while the older generation/mindset trying to halt the progressiveness we are use to and see the positive in. I wonder if we will revisit this in the future 😉 🤔

Ed

- Some notes/thoughts/facts: - You're making incredible progress - 9 seasons in just 9 months..! Truly one of the fastest reactors out there. https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/6/6c/Pinkie_Pie_pointing_at_Mount_Aris_S8E1.png https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/1/1e/Rarity_pointing_at_Klugetown_S8E1.png https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/4/4a/Rainbow_%22decided_not_to_throw_us_overboard%22_S8E1.png - YES THE MOVIE IS CANON!!! Starlight Glimmer: "What about that unicorn? The one who attacked Canterlot?" Twilight Sparkle: "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." - It's a shame they couldn't include Tempest in the show - having a celebrity like Emily Blunt voicing her regularly just wasn't feasible. The same goes for Silverstream: instead, Skystar stepped in to fill that role. Twilight Sparkle: "No. I mean, the world is filled with so many different creatures who know nothing about friendship." - Sounds like she got quite the trauma from the movie's journey... - JK 😅 Rarity: "Perhaps. But where does one go to learn about friendship?" Twilight Sparkle: "Here! They can all go here! Because we're gonna open a school!" - And the cat is out of the bag about what this season might be about: they want to open a School of Friendship! Intros change only at the 3rd episode, they never did so with premiere's... Twilight Sparkle: "It's not like there's a rule book to follow." Princess Celestia: "Actually, there is. The EEA guidebook is very specific about how to run a school." Spike: "Even your school? But you're you!" Princess Celestia: "Not even a princess can do whatever she likes when it comes to shaping young pony minds." - It's fascinating how even Celestia is bound by the EEA's teaching rules, despite being the highest authority in Equestria. This raises questions about Celestia's reign: is she truly the supreme entity of the kingdom? Or perhaps there are institutions specifically designed to be beyond her influence? My guess is that Celestia herself established these institutions to be independent of her rule, ensuring a high standard of education, while still retaining the ability to intervene if absolutely necessary. Though it's never fully explained, it opens up some interesting possibilities. The EEA (Equestria Education Association) is an institution overseeing the high standards that all schools for unicorns, pegasi, and earth ponies must uphold—and that is, indeed, quite significant. Neighsay: "And can we trust you to follow through with this plan? Will you leave the school unattended to gallop off on your... 'adventures'?" - This was a valid question, and not just from him—many in the fandom were anxious too... would there be no more adventures? Still, it was a pretty silly thing to say to someone who wasn't just about to become the principal of the school, but also happened to be a princess and a hero who had saved Equestria more than once. - So, where were you that time, Chancellor Neighsay, huh?! 😡 - Oh right, probably petrified or stuck in a cage... 😋 One thing stands out, though: Twilight skillfully dodged Neighsay's dubious questions with some rather interesting answers: Twilight Sparkle: "My journey beyond Equestria showed me firsthand that the threats out there are greater than we imagined!" Neighsay: "A school for ponies to learn how to protect themselves." Twilight Sparkle: "Uh, more like respecting differences and communicating." - This exchange is, ironically, an example of miscommunication itself. Twilight seems to sense that something is off about Neighsay here, which might explain why she chose not to mention the other creatures beforehand..? Anyway, doesn't that just sound like a school for diplomats, but on a more personal level? 😅 The school does look great indeed... https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/f/f2/Exterior_view_of_the_School_of_Friendship_S8E1.png The rest of the Mane 6 aren't to eager about teaching... but they trust Twilight, which is sweet. And yes, everyone had the same thought as you, Ed. Besides Twilight and Starlight, it was hard to picture any of them as teachers - especially after witnessing what happened during the first song about the EEA rules. It was almost destined to backfire given their personalities, and it was predictable that conflicts would arise - particularly with the new students who weren't just ponies... The song "School of Friendship" is quite interesting because it starts on a hopeful note but gradually takes a turn for the worse. It becomes clear that the curriculum doesn't align with the established EEA rules. Twilight's vision is entirely different, and her friends struggle to implement these rules since they aren't trained teachers. This chaos (which Discord would probably love, by the way) and the resulting uncertainty have the opposite effect of what was intended, leading to students clashing with one another. Spike: "Who are you, and what have you done with Twilight Sparkle?" - Someone could truly believe that... Twilight Sparkle: "Every school in Equestria follows these rules. As long as we do the same, we'll be fine." Starlight Glimmer: "Maybe we should... try something different?" - Ooh, MVP Starlight is at it again... Twilight Sparkle: "The EEA will be here this afternoon for Friends and Family Day. They need to see a school that follows their guidelines." Fluttershy: "Even if those guidelines aren't really working?" Twilight Sparkle: "Well, then we just have to try harder and make them work." - At this point, it's clear there's more going on. It seems like Twilight is also deceiving herself, convinced that things simply can't go wrong... And it happens so that Gallus and Smolder want to skip classes... Gallus: "Is after class. Relax. This is just a quick... mental health break." - well you convinced me there Gallus 😏 Ocellus turned into Rarity... hm... I wonder if it's a crime to impersonate others 🤔 So instead of teleportation Chancellor Neighsay uses portals...interesting... I love how the Young Six bond in this scene, while Twilight talks about the values they aim to teach - perfectly illustrated by these six embodying those very values. Well, if it weren't for their entrance during Friends and Family Day - destroying the school and provoking Chancellor Neighsay in that process - things might have gone differently. It certainly wasn't the best first impression. And Neighsay didn't hesitate to reveal his bias against other creatures: Neighsay: "Those are students? But you said you were opening this school to protect Equestria! To defend ponies from... dangerous creatures who don't have our best interests at heart!" Neighsay: "And how do you know these creatures won't take what they have learned here and use it against us?" - Ah yes... This really isn't how friendship is supposed to work... or at least, it shouldn't be. Neighsay: "Well, perhaps you should return to your kind." Wow... the chancellor's bigotry knows no bounds - he embodies pony-fascism at its finest and is openly prejudiced against other creatures. Seeing this level of intolerance depicted in a kids' show is both unsettling and unexpectedly intense. Neighsay's attitude was also highly undiplomatic towards Equestria's allies, revealing a narrow-minded hostility that certainly didn't help build bridges as he was willing to incite a diplomatic incident by that... And as much as he's correct about the school not meeting EEA standards, it's clear that his actions are primarily motivated by spite towards other creatures. His comment, "Perhaps if you had had higher standards for who was admitted, this could have been avoided..." reveals his deeply rooted prejudice. He is, at heart, a racist. - I'd say he could benefit from these friendship lessons as much as anyone - though I doubt he's open to learning them. 😏 He shuts down the school and seals it with his talisman, not just his own magic. I wonder why he needed the talisman for that... 👀 In any case, this hits Twilight hard. She's absolutely devastated by this failure - feeling as though she's let everyone down. She failed in her role as princess of friendship, angered her allies and friends, and couldn't fulfill her plan to open the school. Wow thats quite the expression... https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/f/fa/Twilight_Sparkle_annoyed_by_the_sunlight_S8E2.png It's heartwarming how her friends try to cheer up... although with questionable results... https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/6/67/Rarity_puts_a_dress_on_Twilight_Sparkle_S8E2.png - Really rarity?! This was your idea? 😆 Starlight delivers a tough but well-intentioned truth: Twilight gave up too easily. Now, Twilight knows what she has to do - reopen the school, but on her own terms... - However, her friends aren't exactly on board... Rainbow Dash: "No offense, Twilight, but teaching at that school was the most boring, horrible, awful thing ever." - Sometimes I wonder if Rainbow Dash shouldn't be the Element of Honesty instead. Then again, being honest with a friend can also be seen as an act of loyalty, which fits her well in that case... Also, how cool is it that everyone now has their own uniquely styled confetti cannon! But seriously... where do these cannons even come from? 😅 https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/1/12/Mane_Six%27s_party_cannons_firing_confetti_S8E2.png - Pinkie had them hidden in the ground in case of reopening-the-school-agreements... 😅 To reopen the school, all the students need to return. But some of them are missing... because they wanted to stay together... And the distrust between the different creature-folks is at an all-time high, with each group accusing the others of hiding the missing students... which could even lead to a war... The situation turns hilarious when Sandbar walks in while everyone else is frantically discussing the students whereabouts... and he is acting incredibly suspicious... Rarity: "We need to think like our students. If someone told us we would never see each other again, what would we do?" Pinkie Pie: "Go someplace we could all hang out and eat lots and lots of cupcakes!" [beat] Pinkie Pie: "What?" - That was surprisingly attentive and insightful from Pinkie! 🤣 (But let's face it, the truth is she read the script 😅) Turns out, the students are all hanging out together at the Castle of the Two Sisters... - And yeah, I also wish they would rebuild that place. The Young Six are so wholesome. I love their togetherness, and it's wonderful how they recognize each other as equals, acknowledging each of their faults... Those Puckwudgies are really dangerous... they put holes in pillows! Imagine if they hit any creature instead... - But luckily the Mane 7 arrive to rescue the students, instantly making them heroes in the eyes of the kids. A Great PR move! 😅 Fluttershy: "Oh! Don't hurt them! Just ask them to leave nicely." https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/9/9a/Puckwudgies_inside_the_party_cannon_S8E2.png - Yes indeed... nicely... Pinkie Pie: "Plus, all your nations won't go to war if you come back with us! Bonus!" https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/1/1e/Young_Six_completely_stunned_S8E2.png - well whoopsie daisy... seem they didn't thought about that... And finally, Twilight steps up to confront Chancellor Neighsay... but once again, he is unbearably close-minded about it. Twilight Sparkle: "This isn't an EEA school. It's a friendship school, with its own rules. And I should know - I wrote the book!" [thump] Twilight Sparkle: "These students have reminded me that every friendship is special, which means our way of teaching it must be just as unique. My school is going to do things differently." - Nice comeback, Twi... Neighsay: "Allowing all of these creatures to attend your school, changing the rules for them – it simply won't work!" - He said this without providing any real examples... Princess Celestia: "I seem to recall something about Earth ponies, unicorns, and Pegasi doing something similar, don't you?" - So, this isn't the first time such divisions have occurred. As we know from Hearth's Warming Eve, Equestria was founded over a thousand years ago, and there was already significant tension and prejudice among the three main pony tribes. It likely took a long time for these attitudes to change (if they even truly did 👀). Anyway, with each new wave of change, there will always be those who resist it in some way. This mirrors the issues we often face in the real world when dealing with significant societal changes, whether it be related to religion, ethnicity, or how we teach history in schools - even racism itself. It's understandable why some fans didn't enjoy this premiere: it felt a bit too much like a commentary on real-world issues. - Which I can understand, if you just want to watch a whimsical show about cute ponies and their little adventures... 😅 Twilight Sparkle: "I promise you, Chancellor. My school will help protect Equestria." Neighsay: "Or destroy it!" - Well, I guess we'll have to wait and see... The next song "Friendship Always Wins" is very reminiscent of the core theme of MLP which was really cool... It also shows all the differences to prior installments, especially the different classrooms were great additions... Again here are some remixes for you: JTH Remix https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nEwXfb5Z70Y Metal Cover by Osoch https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gcKpPdtg0b0 Well, well, look who decided to join Starlight's class... https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/7/77/Angel_Bunny_jumping_on_his_desk_S8E2.png - Angel Bunny, whom Starlight liked when she needed to make a friend... https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/c/c6/School_of_Friendship_group_photo_S8E2.png Yes it's a great class Photo! Welp, never thought I would see a Griffon do puppy-eyes... https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/2/25/Gallus_making_puppy-dog_eyes_at_Gruff_S8E2.png --- With the movie now canon, My Little Pony expands its world beyond Equestria, exploring friendship as a force that unites creatures across different lands and cultures. This premiere marks a new chapter for the Mane Six as they take on the role of mentors to a diverse group of young creatures (affectionately called the "Young Six" by fans) through the School of Friendship. This storyline sets the stage for an exploration of cross-species relationships between ponies and other nations. Twilight's vision of establishing this groundbreaking institution meets resistance from the EEA, a governing body for school standards, led by the rigid and prejudiced Chancellor Neighsay. His outdated views and undiplomatic bigotry against the non-pony students nearly incite conflict on war-like proportions between nations. However, with the support of her friends, Twilight stands up to Neighsay and the EEA, ultimately bringing her vision to life and stopping these conflicts. This shift challenges both show characters and fans to embrace the new school setup and to understand the power of inclusivity, highlighting the potential of cross-species bonds and the strength found in unity. == School of Friendship and Twilight's Vision == Twilight's idea to open the School of Friendship is a powerful step forward, establishing a place where future generations of not only ponies but also other creatures can learn about the values of friendship. The concept that friendship transcends species boundaries is inspiring, as it lays a foundation for societal and diplomatic change. Twilight's journey, however, isn't without its challenges. Initially, Twilight is determined to follow the Equestria Education Association (EEA) rules, seeing their standards as vital for establishing the credibility of her new School of Friendship. Raised under EEA principles herself, and educated under the rigorous guidance of Princess Celestia, Twilight sees these rules not just as formal guidelines but as a proven path to success. In her mind, adhering to the EEA's structure is essential: it aligns with her own learned belief in the authority of traditional education. Twilight's commitment to meeting EEA standards reflects a deep-seated respect for the very structure she grew up within - a structure that shaped her understanding of both credibility and purpose. This unwavering trust in the EEA's authority leads her to overlook her friends concerns, assuming that the unique mission of a school dedicated to friendship will naturally suit the traditional model. It is only after she failed these requirements and when Starlight confronts her that Twilight begins to question whether the EEA's standards can truly serve such an unconventional goal. Twilight's journey, then, becomes one of reconciling her respect for tradition with the need for flexibility and inclusivity, ultimately realizing that her vision demands a more compassionate, progressive approach than the EEA's guidelines allow and creates her own guidelines that she made with her friends to prove it. And as you guessed, fans were divided on this new direction. Some saw it as an enriching expansion of the show, broadening the scope of its world, while others feel the formal structure disrupts Ponyville's traditionally spontaneous, experience-based approach to friendship. The introduction of the "Young Six", creatures from diverse species and nations, has sparked exciting conversations about interspecies relationships and cultural integration. Many appreciated this as it not only reflects inclusivity but also hints at future alliances across species. == Balancing Tradition and Progress in Education == Twilight's struggle with the EEA's traditional standards resonates with real-world debates about modernizing education. While some fans enjoyed her journey as a relatable portrayal of trying to reconcile progressive ideas with established rules, others questioned the practicality of a "School of Friendship" like you did at the beginning. After all, characters like Twilight and Starlight learned the values of friendship through lived experiences, not formal education. Yet, the school also provides creatures with important values like loyalty, honesty, and kindness, which might prevent future conflicts by fostering mutual understanding. Neighsay's influence was undeniably a barrier, as he clung to outdated biases that undermined Twilight's vision of inclusivity. When the school reopens with Twilight's newfound independence from the EEA, it embodies her commitment to flexibility and trust in her instincts. Which is quite a step forward for her, as she is often afraid to go against established rules and traditions herself... == Chancellor Neighsay: An Antagonist Rooted in Fear == The following is my imaginative take, and I'm not trying to defend him here, but just to give a more clear picture of why his one-dimensional view might be the way it is: Chancellor Neighsay is undoubtedly designed to challenge viewers, embodying a character who is judgmental, condescending, and deeply wary of non-pony creatures - viewing them, at best, as potential threats and, at worst, as outright dangers to Equestrian society. His perspective starkly contrasts with Twilight and her friends' inclusive vision, creating a powerful clash between fear-driven protectionism and the optimism of unity. But where does Neighsay's view even come from as it was just portrayed as given in the show? His resistance to inclusivity might trace back to recent events in Equestria's history, especially as the movie is now considered canon. Equestria was recently shaken by an invasion led by non-pony forces, a traumatic event for the nation, especially since their allies seemingly didn't offer support during this crisis. For a figure like Neighsay, who may have already harbored reservations about non-pony creatures, this invasion likely intensified his distrust, pushing it toward an extreme that verges on xenophobia. Neighsay's perception of non-ponies as a threat to Equestrian stability seems to be a reactionary response, emerging from a place of deep-seated insecurity over Equestria's vulnerabilities. Moreover, Equestria is a world where survival often feels precarious. From magical beasts to the occasional villainous threat, Equestrian citizens face various dangers. Neighsay believes that education should be about equipping ponies to navigate this uncertain world, with a focus on resilience and unity within their own community rather than openness to others. This perspective stands in direct opposition to Twilight's mission for the School of Friendship, which champions empathy, understanding, and inclusivity as tools to build a more peaceful world. Neighsay's stance, while unquestionably narrow-minded, is rooted in a desire for security. In his eyes, any initiative that strays from pony-centered values undermines the safety and cohesiveness of Equestria. While we're meant to root for Twilight's vision of a harmonious, interspecies world, Neighsay's ideology (in the show) is portrayed as sheer villainy. But it might also be a rigid mindset shaped by fear and protectionism. He sees the School of Friendship as a threat to Equestrian society's integrity, believing that introducing creatures of various backgrounds only weakens the community he's sworn to protect. While Neighsay's harsh, exclusionary attitude and actions are inexcusable, I think this just adds some layer of motivation that complicates his role in the series. Whether he becomes an ideological villain or simply remains a figure consumed by pony-supremacist views remains to be seen, but his character illustrates how rigid beliefs, if left unchallenged, can become the basis for prejudice and division. == The Young Six: A New Generation == The "Young Six" (or "Student Six") bring an exciting mix of personalities and species to My Little Pony, each embodying elements that align with core themes of friendship. And the focus on this variety is a fantastic inclusion! These students, who come from far and wide, are partly familiar figures in Equestria while others are entirely new—making them a wonderful introduction to diverse friendships. Gallus the Griffon, for example, is clever but mischievous and sarcastic, embodying resilience and independence. With his guardian, Grandpa Gruff, by his side, Gallus brings a mix of wit and independence to the group. Yona the Yak, hailing from Yakyakistan, is cheerful, strong yet clumsy, and known for her honesty and unfiltered enthusiasm. Her acquaintance with Prince Rutherford highlights her pride in her heritage and adds depth to her boisterous spirit. Smolder the Dragon comes from the Dragon Lands, bringing strength, toughness, and unexpected generosity. Occasionally skeptical, Smolder has a close connection with Dragonlord Ember, which deepens her dragon identity. Ocellus the Changeling, shy and bookish, has a great love for learning that feeds her empathy and scholarly insight. Thorax nurtures her curiosity, making her a figure of thoughtful transformation among her friends. Silverstream the Hippogriff from Mount Aris is full of joy and wonder. Energetic and curious, she can transform into a seapony, bringing versatility and an infectious sense of discovery to the group. Her connection with General Seaspray adds to her sense of adventure. Meanwhile, Sandbar the Earth Pony is laid-back and friendly, embodying loyalty and stability in the group. His calm and grounded nature provides a reliable presence for his friends. Their interactions often hint at a new generation of elements similar to the Elements of Harmony, reinforcing diversity and cooperation across cultures. And yeah, fans and I also enjoyed watching these young creatures bond and grow which even leads them to run away together to avoid separating after the school got closed. Especially when their friendship nearly leads them to cause an international incident by running away together... Their dynamic interactions and the show's emphasis on cross-species friendship resonate with the larger theme of fostering unity across Equestria's many cultures. The Young Six signify a hopeful future, one that relies on cooperation and mutual respect between different species. It will be interesting to see what this group might achieve in the future. == Overall Impressions == This episode presents an intriguing new take on the concept of friendship. It gives the Mane Six and Starlight Glimmer fresh roles as teachers, which some fans worry might limit their ability to go on traditional adventures. However, the storyline opens up a meaningful new arc, reflecting broader themes of societal change and progress. It also brings us a fascinating cast of interspecies characters rooted in the show's expanding universe, incorporating allies and ideas introduced in the movie and prior episodes. For me, School Daze is a unique and thought-provoking episode that reshapes the meaning of friendship in MLP, reinforcing that it truly is for everycreature. It's a bold start to Season 8, one that acknowledges both challenges and growth within Equestria's evolving world... --- It was again an enriching reaction from you and no need to thank us, we are always grateful if people join this ride! - It was again a great reaction, thank you! 💙😊 --- P.S: Talking about allies, other creatures and other nations's - this raises another interesting question, which might be a interesting for you: Did you ever wonder what Equestria is exactly? Equestria as a whole can be compared to a Commonwealth, with its towns acting as independent entities with unique customs and their own governance (as seen in "Princess Spike" with all the representatives), yet all recognize Princess Celestia (who was intended to be a queen in earlier concepts) as their sovereign, similar to the Commonwealth of Nations. Officially, Equestria is referred to as a "Kingdom", aligning with Celestia's role as an absolute monarch, akin to the United Kingdom. Canterlot itself might be better described as a Principality, ruled by a Princess, which is typical for smaller territories. As for the Crystal Empire, it functions more as a Principality under Equestrian rule, though its title implies a larger realm, making "Empress Cadance" theoretically fitting if its name were literal... Yeah... 😏

DeViruZz.eXe

You’re right some people don’t know there was a time where race was segregated in schools and everywhere else and it was just the norm at the time and what was expected, it was awful but that’s how the world was, this is based on that for sure, as celestia said she can’t even control the school systems.

Pinkie_applepie

Yes I can see why the fanbase was mixed with this direction. I also am unsure how their roles as teachers is going to change the direction of the show. Only time will tell. Yeah chancellor is a bigot but I think people don’t understand the lore old school fashion and traditional mindset the older generation has. And it’s a school system so it’s not that celestia wants to work for it but it’s much more complicated than that. But I agree!! The diversity, new species, world building, and the movie being canon was all amazing! And this is a unique place to experiment with the shows direction but I’m all for it!

Ed

Yay finally season 8! okay so this premiere has mixed reviews, lots of people didn’t like that there’s a school now and the mane 6 including starlight will be teachers and everyone thought they won’t have time for missions and saving equestria, chancellor neighsay is a very racist person so many people hate him and wondered why princess celestia would even work with the EEA and neighsay if she knew he was racist like that, but I don’t think it goes that deep but some people have said he shouldn’t be even running the schools of equestria, I love the diversity of this premiere, the movie is canon! so now we have all the types of creatures in the school learning friendship! this is a very interesting path for mlp to go.

Pinkie_applepie


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