The Crystal Empire is old and strong and arrogant. It is the sole domain of ponydom outside the Sisters' rule, a preserved reminder of the days that passed long before the foundation of Equestria. And it teaches its lessons well.
Scootaloo is the bestest and greatest crusader. Sweetie Belle is nothing but a dog's chew toy--one of the squeaky ones--given life, and Apple Bloom just sucks.