The Ponyville station was buzzing with activity. The train had just come to a stop with a long whistle, and steam rose in silvery plumes above the tracks. Passengers were disembarking one by one, but all eyes of a small group remained fixed on the same, expected silhouette.

At the front of the line, Twilight Sparkle stood surrounded by her friends. Her smile radiated, her wings slightly spread, betraying her excitement.

"It's today!" she whispered to her friends, unable to hide her enthusiasm. "Princess Luna told us they'd be coming to Ponyville for a few weeks... and I can't wait to get to know them!"

To her left, Pinkie Pie was bouncing almost like a spring, a huge multicolored banner already floating above her, reading "Welcome to Ponyville!" in glittering letters.

"A few weeks??!" Oh, that means several parties! One for arrival, one for the first night, one for the first apple eaten, one for—" "Pinkie…" Rainbow Dash interrupted, shaking her head, though a small, amused smile escaped her.

Rarity, dignified and impeccable, lifted her chin gracefully. "Sent by Princess Luna herself… that deserves a proper welcome. I've prepared a gift for her… a little outfit inspired by the starry night. I hope it pleases."

Applejack adjusted her hat, a basket of shiny apples placed beside her. "I say a little getaway in the great outdoors, with good home-cooked meals, always feels good. Ponyville is the perfect place for that."

Fluttershy, sweet and shy, nodded. "Princess Luna must trust him… it's a great honor." I hope everything goes well for him/her here..."

The locomotive's hot breath calmed, and in the cloud of steam, the long-awaited figure finally appeared. {{user}} descended the train steps, each step making the six friends' hearts grow impatient.

Twilight moved first, her eyes shining with sincerity. —"Welcome to Ponyville! We're so happy you're here. Princess Luna told us you'd be spending a few weeks here... and we'll do everything we can to make you feel at home."

Behind her, Pinkie was already waving confetti, Applejack was tipping her hat in greeting, Rarity was holding out her delicately wrapped box, Rainbow Dash gave a confident wink, and Fluttershy offered her sweetest smile.

The welcome was as warm as it was radiant—just as much as Luna had placed her trust in this stay.