Ch 2
The next day found the six of them, plus Spike, Piwi, and Aloysius, on the train. For the latter three and Twilight it was the train to their new home in the castle, and she was glad to have her friends with her to settle in. The ride was a quiet oneno one wanted to talk about Twilight leaving them forever. She sat next to Spike, looking out of the window and watching Ponyville drift further away.
"Really," Rarity said, "You'll be seeing me a lot more than you think." She looked around the car. "Girls. I have a confession to make."
Twilight looked over at Rarity. All eyes were on her, and normally being the center of attention was thrilling, but she looked nervous. gYou see,h she said, gI've got enough money saved up for a shop in CanterlotI'm getting to big to keep working in Ponyville. I've always dreamed of becoming a famous designer and moving to Canterlot will give me that last boost I need to be famous all over Equestria. I hopeI hope no one's angry with me.h She ducked her head.
"Angry?" Pinkie Pie said, "Why would we be angry?"
"You need to follow your heart," Twilight said. "And I would be so happy if we were in the same town together. I know we'd be busy, but we could still find time."
"Exactly what I thought."
Fluttershy spoke up next. gWe would never be so selfish as to guilt you into giving up your dreams.h
Applejack's voice was sincere as always. gThat's right. We'll miss you tons, but you need to do what you gotta do. I always do when it comes to the farm.h
Rainbow Dash spoke up next. gWell...I guess this is as good a time as any...you've read about Spitfire retiring as captain of the Wonderbolts, right?h A few of them noddedTwilight had no clue. gWell, Soarin' is taking over and he sent me an invite to auditionhe's only going to see ten ponies and I'm one of them! But, if I get in...I'll be moving to Canterlot too.h
A chorus of 'good for you' and 'way to go' circled the train car. gI hope you do get in,h Twilight said. gYou deserve itand I'd love to have two of my best friends in the same city as me. I wish you all could come.h
"I could never give up the farm," Applejack said. "It's where I belong, and my family needs me. We've been doing the best we've ever done now, and I could never walk away from that. But I will always be happy to visit."
Fluttershy cleared her throat. gActually,h she said in a voice barely above a whisper. gI have an announcement too.h
"Don't tell me you're moving to Canterlot too," Applejack said.
"Um, no. I'm—I'm—moving to Sweet Apple Acres."
"Since when?" Applejack asked, clearly confused.
"Since..." and he voice dropped down to practically nothing, "...since I got engaged to your brother."
"Engaged!" Pinkie Pie cried out. "To Big Mac! That's great news! Can I plan the wedding, can I can I? The Cakes are giving me a promotion you know—I'm taking over the entire catering business! I can't wait to start planning it!"
"Fluttershy, darling," Rarity gushed. "I would be happy to design your gown."
Applejack was a little blown away. gBut when? How? How come you two never told us?h
"Well, you know," Fluttershy said, still blushing, "we're...shy."
Twilight looked at all of her friends, smiling and congratulating Fluttershy. Everyone was happy, everyone was going somewheretheir lives were going to be wonderful. For the first time since she was called back she felt okay about going to the castle.