For the next few days, the three girls spent their time getting ready for the long journey ahead, while spending as much of it as possible with their friends and family. And that’s what Sunset and Starlight did with their father on one of those nights.
Sunset was the one who felt the saddest right before leaving. She thought about it the most while spending time with her father Brightfire. It had only been two weeks since they reunited for the first time in years and being separated from him wasn’t gonna be easy.
It was unknown how long til the two sisters will get to spend more quality time with their father. But the night they spent together as a family helped very much. The girls were gonna miss their dad while they were away. But he told his daughters that if they ever miss him, he’s just one phone call away to talk to them.
Another exciting night included a sleepover at Sunset’s place, with Starlight joining them for the first time. Since Starlight was now Sunset’s sister, she was allowed into their group, which now made them the Main Eight. Or the Rainbooms as Rainbow Dash still calls them every so often.
We find ourselves at the Canterlot City Train Station one Friday evening, where the Main Eight, Spike the dog, Brightfire, and Twilight’s parents, awaited for their train to begin the journey. They decided to take a train to start their journey. It was found out the closest equestrian artifact was located outside the city, and it was the cheapest option to do rather than walking or by car. Plus, who wouldn't want to travel by train, it's fun, you don't need to worry about being in a cramped car for hours on end, you can read a good book or a nice nap, but there's also a café/diner car to get food anytime they wanted.
Their journey by train would last them about seventeen hours, going down two hundred and fifty miles out of the nearly five hundred mile line the railroad in question owned.
When their train arrived about an hour before they were to depart, everyone was shocked to see that the locomotive pulling into the station was none other than a twentieth-century-built steam engine!
The railroad that ran through their city, and much of their state, had a small fleet of operational steam locomotives. They were mainly used for passenger trains, occasional freight trains to help with their diesel fleet, and special events throughout the year.
Sunset was amazed she had finally gotten to see one after all these years on earth.
Its bell clanged by the second with clouds of smoke puffing out of its funnel, as the engine entered the station. It soon came to a stop, just before the engineer pulled the whistle cord, signaling the passengers they’ve arrived at their next stopping point. Passengers began to depart the train, heading off to their following destinations, or simply to stretch their legs during the hour-long stop, while the crew began work on maintaining the engine's running gear.
Diesel locomotives need maintenance every now and then, but steam engines need twice the amount when running for a good portion of a day! This was one of many reasons they have discontinued regular service six to seven decades ago in the late twentieth century. Steam regularly used is a rare sight these days in the twenty-first century. They need to have their driving rods greased every hundred miles, fuel and water replenished, depending on the size of their tender and if they have an auxiliary water tender or not, and inspected for any possible issues that might lead to a problem later on during the journey, so there are no delays before departure.
Before beginning the maintenance, the fireman shoveled several loads of coal into the engine’s firebox, before exiting the cab to refuel the tender’s water capacity from a nearby water tower. While seeing a steam locomotive running in the twenty-first century isn’t that common for most people these days, unless you live by tourist lines that run steam throughout much of the year, being originally from Equestria, Sunset was used to it.
The train in Equestria, the Friendship Express, was powered by a steam engine. So alongside her father, Brightfire Sunset decides not to question it like everyone else was and enjoy the moment while it lasted.
It was also several times larger and had a different design than the one back in Equestria. I mean, it was a completely different locomotive just by looking at it. Instead of having a 4-4-0 american arrangement, it had a 4-6-2 wheel arrangement, commonly known as a pacific. The engine bore the number 1293 on its cab, number plate, and rear end of its tender, the name of the railroad it served written on its tender Ohio Central, and finally, five steel passenger cars coupled behind it.
…
As the sun began setting behind the mountains Sunset, Twilight and Starlight were doing some last-minute go-overs with their families before boarding their train.
Just by the look of their wardrobe and matching ponytails, they looked more than ready for the long journey ahead of them. Whatever was gonna happen, they were ready to begin their search for the remaining equestrian artifacts.
Compared to Twilight and Starlight, Sunset always preferred having her hair down. But like what we’ve seen in the past, she does have it in a bun or ponytail on occasion. And as Twilight once said about her hairstyling techniques, Sunset thought about trying something new for a change like her girlfriend. It was the start of a new chapter of her life, and doing it in style, was a great way to do it. Which Rarity highly approved.
The three were nervous about their journey like anyone would be, but out of all of them, Twilight could easily tell that her Mom was the one sad to be seeing her go. She tried to hide it as best as she could, but Twilight knew her Mom well. And she always had a hard time hiding it.
“Did you pack everything you need Twilight?”
“Yes, Mom. I got the camping gear, clothes, food, water, money, medicine, a compass, and a spare pair of glasses in case my current ones break. And finally my phone. I think I got everything I’ll be needing.”
“Good, I just wanted to make sure you didn’t forget anything, sweetie. SniffI knew that this day was coming, but why did it have to be so soon!”
Twilight Velvet immediately lets out the tears of sadness she’d been holding in before her husband Night Light tried to help calm her down. It’s always hard for a parent when their child leaves their home and goes out into the big world. And Velvet seemed to be in a worse state than when Shining Armor moved out years prior.
“There there honey, it's gonna be ok. Twilight, do us a favor and call us once in a while. Or at the very least, send us a letter or postcard to not worry your mother. We know this is very important to you, but remember. While you are an adult now, you’re still our daughter, and we care about your safety. So please, stay safe out there, alright?”
“I promise Dad. I’ll miss you both.”
Twilight gave her parents a nice big hug goodbye before kneeling to face Spike, who was sitting right next to her Mom. She could tell by the look on his face he was gonna miss her while she was away. Even if Spike could no longer physically speak, it was easy to tell by the frown he adored he was sad to see Twilight go.
“I wish I could take you with me, Spike. But this is something important I must do with Sunset and Starlight. If I brought you along, I’d hate for something bad to happen to you. So for your safety, you’re staying back with Mom and Dad until I return. Alright?" Spike moaned a little while listening, but he understood why she was telling him this while being scratched behind the right ear.
“And don’t forget to be on your best behavior while I’m away, ok boy? Spike happily barked back to Twilight, which made her smile happily.
“Although you can no longer talk, you’ll remain my number one assistant Spike. I’m gonna miss you, buddy.”
Before Twilight knew it, Spike jumped onto his owner and began giving her several goodbye kisses. Twilight hugged him back, giggling before setting him back down on the ground.
As Sunset watched her girlfriend from a distance, it was her turn with her father Brightfire, alongside her newly adopted sister Starlight.
“Good luck out there girls. Especially you, Sunset. It's hard to believe you’ve grown so much these last few years, taking care of yourself without me. Your mother sure would be proud of how much you’ve accomplished if she were still with us. I’m proud of you sweetie.”
“Thanks, Dad. I promise to call whenever I find the time. Despite this, it was not how I expected to say goodbye to you. Again. I’m glad to have you back in my life.”
“So am I Sunset.”
“Take care of Ray and Owlowiscious while we're off searching for the artifacts. It won’t be much, but I know you can do it.”
“You can count on me Sunset. And keep an eye out for your sister so she doesn’t get herself into trouble, ok Starlight?”
“You can count on me. Dad.”
“That’s sure gonna get some getting used to,” Sunset shared while scratching her neck in awkwardness.
“You’ll get the hang of it, Sunset. Having a sister is the best gift you have ever given me. And I’m proud to call you my sister, sis.” Starlight replied, before lightly punching Sunset’s left shoulder.
“You are very welcome, Starlight. But before we go, why don’t we take a quick photo together? We’re officially a family now. But since we’ll be separated for some time, it’ll be a reminder of our first moments together. I know it's not something special like a normal family portrait would be, but this one means more.”
The family of three joined in on the photo, with the train station in the background before Sunset took their picture.
“Stay safe out there. I love you, girls.”
“We love you too Dad,” the two sisters said in unison.
“Oh, and before you go. I’d like you to have this Sunset.”
Brightfire brought out a bracelet he had from his bag and handed it over to Sunset. It was silver and had a circular green crystal in the center. It was both a unique and beautiful piece of jewelry just looking at it in his hand.
“A bracelet?”
“Not just anything bracelet. This once belonged to your mother. I gave it to her as a gift for our first wedding anniversary. It was one of several things that survived the storm that destroyed our home in Equestria. I’ve been carrying it these last few years, and I’d like you to have it.”
“Dad, are you sure? This bracelet must mean a lot to you. We’ve gone through so much since we lost our family. Are you positive I can have it?”
“It’s perfectly fine with me Sunset.”
"Are you sure?”
“Yes. No matter where you go, you’ll always have something to remember about our family. I won’t always be here for you. So keep it close to you, and carry it with pride.”
Sunset was surprised her father was offering her the piece of jewelry, especially since he’s held onto it these last few years. But knowing it once belonged to her deceased mother, made Sunset feel a sign of joy.
“Thanks, Dad. I promise to take good care of it.”
“I know you will.”
Sunset placed the bracelet on her left hand before admiring its beauty. Now, wherever she would go, she had a reminder of her old family back in Equestria.
But now, it was time for an even harder goodbye she and Starlight had to do. Saying goodbye to their friends Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash.
The siblings gave their dad one final hug goodbye, before heading over to their friends awaiting them with Twilight.
The Main Eight all felt nothing but sadness, knowing they were about to go their separate ways til their friends return from their journey.
This would be the first time since they all became friends they’d be separated from one another, as it is unknown when they'll be together again.
“Be safe out there, ok?”
“The safest Rarity. We’re going to be fine. That’s a promise,” replied Twilight.
“I still can’t believe you're leaving us…” Said the now-sad Fluttershy.
“We know Fluttershy. But if we want our planet to be safe from Equestrian magic, we must find those artifacts!”
“Sunset’s right. We don’t know how long it’ll take us to find them all, or where some of them have ended up. I’ve managed to track down a few of their locations with my new magic detector Brightfire and I built, which is a good sign we'll find some with no time to spare. Our journey will not only be an excuse to see the world but also keep it safe from any equestrian magic that's still lurking out there,” finished Twilight.
“Well, we're going to miss you while you're off traveling the world. It’s something I’d rather do than attend college. Sounds pretty awesome,” replied the now-jealous Rainbow Dash.
“Heh heh. I know it will, and we're going to miss you, girls, too,” shared Sunset.
“You as well Starlight. While we haven’t gotten to know you during the short time you’ve been our friend, I’m glad you are.”
“Thanks, Applejack. If there’s one thing that Sunset has taught me about the magic of friendship, friends can change the world for you.”
“Yeah… I’m going to miss you, girls. You're the second family I thought I never had. You might be just my friends, but you're also my family. Sure it's just a fancy word that means those who stick together. But you, my friends, are that family I have,” confessed Sunset.
“And we always will be darling. If you ever need our help, please, don’t hesitate to call us. We’ll be happy to help you if you need our assistance. Isn’t that right, girls?”
It was a promise that they were all happy to make, as the rest of them agreed alongside Rarity.
“Goodbyes are always hard, and they always will be. But like Princess Twilight once said, it’s just until next time!” Shared Sunset.
The next thing we know, the girls all come in for a big group hug, wishing their friends a stroke of good luck on their journey.
After separating from their hug, an announcement came from a nearby PA system.
“The six pm train leaving Canterlot City will depart in five minutes.”
And seconds later, a five-minute warning came from their train, signaling them it was time to get going.
“That’s our signal!”
“Best wishes girls.”
“Have a great trip!”
That made Sunset want to chuckle a little as she walked over to their assigned train car.
“You girls ready?”
“Yep!”
“Ready as I’ll ever be Twilight.”
Once Starlight and Twilight got on board Sunset stopped herself as she stood on the first step of the passenger car. She didn't know why at first but did as she looked back at her family in dismay.
“Come on Sunset! We have to get to our seats!” Shouted Sci Twi.
“Give her a moment Twilight. She’s sad to be leaving them,” shared Starlight.
And indeed she was.
Sunset was sad she had to leave them, but it was for a good purpose.
They all waved back at her, which she did back, before smiling happily.
She took a long but soothing breath of air in and felt more confident than ever.
“Bye, everyone…” Sunset whispered.
After Sunset was officially on board the train, the guard shut all the doors before the conductor shouted while moving his lantern 'All aboard,' which signaled the engine crew it was time to depart.
“You all set John?”
“Yep.”
“Alright, here we go.”
And with two blasts of the whistle, the girls were officially off on their journey.
1293 slowly departed out of the station with its five-car consist in tow. As it pulled out of the station, the engineer once again pulled the whistle several times to warn people to step away from the tracks as they departed Canterlot City.
Despite the warning, many people got near the tracks, taking photos and filming the train in action, including a man who worked for a certain dvd company many railfans know in the train community.
The girls waved to their friends and family who waved back, as they were officially off on their journey, and beginning the next chapter of their lives!
“You girls up for a round of go fish?”
“I was kinda hoping you’d say that.”
“Ha! You're on! That’ll keep us distracted from dying of boredom.”
Three hours out of Canterlot City, the moon was out and about as the train continued on its way to its next stopping point.
After completing their game of go fish, the three girls spent the evening sharing their first of many meals together. They also had a nice conversation with two of the conductors onboard the train. Their names were Evan and Nick. They’ve been working for the railroad for the last three years with hopes of one day becoming a locomotive driver or fireman over their passion for trains. They wished the girls a stroke of good luck on their journey before going off to punch more tickets.
Out of the three of them, Sunset was the last one currently awake. She was enjoying the nice cool breeze out the window as the wind blew her ponytail.
Twilight and Starlight had since fallen fast asleep, just like the many other passengers on the train. They both had removed their hair ties to let their hair down while they slept as sleeping with their hair in ponytails can get quite uncomfortable. Twilight learned it the hard way herself, after doing it a few times in the past. She also removed the glasses, storing them away in her backpack to not get damaged. She did pack a spear in case her current glasses break, at some point during their travels, but she's always cautious so I don't think she'll be breaking them anytime soon.
With a sudden yawn escaping her, Sunset decided to call it a night, after the long day she had.
But before going to sleep, she thought about writing a quick entry in her diary.
Sunset didn’t write in it that much but decided to start doing it more often now that she was officially staying on earth.
After flipping a few pages and finding the last page she wrote in which was dated back to her first days on earth, Sunset began writing her newest entry.
Dear Diary,
With Cinch defeated and the portal closed, my friends and I can get back to our normal lives again, as we can concentrate on our future careers. It still surprises me that just before the portal closed, the Sirens decided to return to Equestria with Princess Twilight. After being stuck on earth for many centuries, they wanted to go home to face the charges for their crimes. They also want to change, being desperate to learn everything there is to know about friendship. And an even more shocking twist, my human counterpart would accompany them!
Not going to lie, I thought that after I first met her, I’d have to return to Equestria for good this time. She blamed me for coming to this world, stealing her identity, and getting everything she deserved that I had gotten. Went to a great school, had a place of my own, two pets, a girlfriend, and the power to see someone’s thoughts and memories with my crystal.
Even after I learned about her past, and how it's similar to my own, I understand now why she decided to go to Equestria in my place. What’s the reason? To start a new life there.
Whatever happens to her, I know she’ll enjoy her new life in my old home of Equestria.
The same goes for the Sirens.
Though they’ll likely have a longer path to go down compared to my counterpart. But with Princess Twilight’s help, I know they’ll turn over a new leaf in no time!
Just thinking about it makes me feel so happy deep within me. That fate has yielded its reward, and I can continue to be with the love of my life, my father, and my newly adopted sister Starlight Shimmer. Her last name has changed now that she’s in my family. Has a nice ring to it though. And fyi, I’m referring to the human Starlight, not her pony counterpart, who's the former student of Princess Twilight. Who's now the principal of her school, the school of friendship in Equestria.
With my sister, girlfriend, and I on this journey to find the remaining equestrian artifacts scattered across our planet, we’ll do whatever we can to make sure no one gets a hold of them. We’ll have to make some big decisions when we come across their locations. These artifacts are a threat to this planet, and who knows what chaos would commence if the authorities found out.
I have come a long way since the day Princess Twilight showed me the magic of friendship following my defeat at the Fall Formal. And now, as the Princess of Empathy, I finally understand what it feels like to have the capacity for courage. Though I don’t know what tomorrow holds, whatever happens, I’ll have the magic of friendship, to guide me every step of the way.
I, am Sunset Shimmer, and this message is a reminder of the long road I’ve gone down, to get to this moment since I abandoned my studies as Princess Celestia’s student.
No matter what, friendship can change your life and help you find the families you love and adore! And it all starts, with a simple offer.
After Sunset finished her latest entry, she closed her diary to put it back in her backpack, before stopping to admire its cover.
The diary still had her old cutie mark on it but was slowly fading away. It felt weird that she didn’t have it as a human, but Sunset still thought about it whenever she saw it on her personal belongings. And ironically, it was on the skirt she was currently wearing.
After putting her diary away, and closing the window, Sunset pulled out her mp three-player and two blankets from her bag. One was for her sister Starlight who was shivering in her sleep in the seat adjacent to them, and the other was for herself and Twilight, who was silently sleeping next to her.
Twilight’s head then leaned against Sunset’s left shoulder, making Sunset giggle as she bopped her girlfriend’s nose. She removes her hair tie, feeling her hair fall back from the ponytail before putting the tie on her right arm.
The railroad didn’t own any sleeper cars in their collection of historic passenger cars, as late-night runs only happened three times a week.
Because of this, they had to make do with the seats the train had and offered. It was unfortunate, and not very comfortable, but it was just for the night, and they’ll likely be sleeping somewhere much comfier the next night.
…
Sunset spent the next hour looking at the stars through her window while listening to her favorite song on her mp-three player. Listening to music often helped her fall asleep, and it seemed to be working while keeping a hold of Twilight’s right hand.
Sunset wondered to herself where they’d end up first in search of an equestrian artifact. But it was late and she decided to let it rest for the time being.
As the clock was reaching midnight, Sunset called quits and went off to sleep.
She dreamt of what she wanted to do once this journey was officially over. Hoping when that day comes, she’ll ask Twilight a very important question, she hopes she’ll say yes to it.
But until that day comes, she has to find those artifacts so their planet is safe and magic free, from any equestrian magic.
Once that goal is complete, she’ll ask Twilight that important question, that will lead to a possible future Sunset hopes come true!
To be Continued…