//------------------------------// // 12 - Home Sweet Home // Story: New Moon // by AzuraKeres //------------------------------// Bud was mesmerized by the rural lands when she stepped out of the train. The small buildings and placid environment was certainly out of her elements compared to the clamorous urban cities she has lived most of her life in. Despite that, however, there was an air of familiarity and comfort that cities do not envoke in her. A sense of belonging that made her feel welcomed and accepted. Perhaps it was due to the cordial ponies that briefly greeted her or maybe because she no longer felt suffocated by tall buildings. No other place but Ponyville makes her feel this way. Pear was devastated from her father’s decision despite how hard she waited ponies to think otherwise. Bud and Chiffon were determined to life her spirits with their regular activities at Chiffon’s place. For years, Bud and Pear had helped Chiffon to improve herself as a baker as her assistants. Chiffon would concoct numerous sorts of recipes that would often result in success or sometimes the aftermath of a food fight. Regardless how they ended, the experiences brought them closer as friends; Bud’s only back then. Those were great times that she can still remember fondly. If not for the daycare center at Baltimare, she would have begged her mother to move back to Ponyville. Exiting the tram station with her party, they made their way into the marketplace. The path was filled with lively bunches of ponies behind stands and striding along the street. Bud’s mother had conveniently purchased a baby stroller for the foals back at Baltimare; no doubt to score points of Nebula’s favor since Nebula still showed scorn for her. Her mother may find this route to be hopeless since the purse of a common mare pales in comparison to the royal refineries Bud’s daughter indulged in from her previous life. Both of her foals were laid next to each other inside the stroller with a canopy that concealed them from the eyes of passing ponies. Convenient for her since she no longer has to worry about being the center of attention for having a Thestral daughter. “Luna,” Bud heard her daughter chuckle. “Stop, that tickles.” It was a rare sight to see joy in Nebula’s face. She was nearly upset her mother did not take a picture of the moment. Moments after laying her foals inside the stroller, Artemis seized their proximity to emulate his grandmother. Artemis began nipping upon Nebula’s ear and Bud become increasingly worried that her daughter may retaliate. There was at first confusion upon Nebula’s face, but then it winded to utter glee to Bud’s surprise. It was hard to believe that filly so adorable could be the gravest threat to Equestria. “She’s so cute when she’s happy,” Hope commented from beside Bud. “Isn’t it nice that the two of them get along so well?” “I don’t think that was ever an issue,” Bud mumbled. Knowing the nature of their relationship, Nebula is wholly committed to protecting Artemis anyway she can. However, with the way she is now, she has little choice but to rely on Bud to take upon that task. Hopefully, her daughter can find comfort that she doesn’t have to carry the burden. Bud happens to like this loose side of her. “As much as I love to see the two bond, we’ll need to find something to simmer them down when the wedding begins. I happen to know as shop here that have some gorgeous plushies.” “Mom, you can’t buy Nebula’s love. She’s smarter than you think.” “I know that my lovely Bud, but a pony has to start somewhere.” Hope shifted her sight to a small building. “And there it is. Lazuli, be a dear and come with me.” “What,” Lazuli sighed. “But you already have me lugging all of our luggage.” Before they left the tram station, Hope had rented a wagon for Lazuli to pull while on their way to Sugar Cube Corner. Lazuli resigned herself to agree for Bud’s sake and has been kept company by Raven from behind the group. “Now Lazuli,” Hope said. “A strong mare such as yourself should have no problem with carrying a few more stuff.” “You sure it’s just a few,” Lazuli narrowed at Hope. “Cause Bud has told me stories about your spending problem.” “Can I come too,” Raven voiced. “I would like to see the products that are sold in rural areas.” “Is there a difference?” Lazuli questioned. “That’s a wonderful attitude,” Hope clapped her hooves. “The more the merrier I say.” “Fine,” Lazuli sighed. “But I better get a free cake for this.” “And what about me,” Bud asked. “Am I supposed to stand here and wait?” “Well, it wouldn’t be a surprise for the foals if they saw it beforehoof,” Hope said. “Alright,” Bud resigned. “Go ahead and try to pamper them with gifts. But could you guys be quick? I don’t want to keep them waiting.” Bud watched the three of them head to the store and disappear inside after Lazuli parked the wagon in front of the building. Looking back at her foals, Nebula was still enjoying Artemis’s harassment as she let out squeaks for all points to hear. Thankfully it was muffled by their countless conversations and noise. “Is that who I think it is?” Bud was alerted by a voice from behind. She turned around and was beheld by a handsome stallion that grinned at the sight of her. “Well looky here. It’s my sweet little sis from the big city.” “Bright Mac!” Bud cheered as she pounced upon the stallion and gave him a bear hug. “Woah,” Bright chuckled as he hugged back. “Didn’t think you miss me that much?” “Of course I did. I went a whole year without seeing you.” Bud pulled back from Bright. Her ears perked at Nebula’s squeaking and pulled the stroller close to her. “How have you been? Are you and Pear doing well?” “Things have gotten better. Ma and Pear had a bit of an awkward start, but I think she’s getting used to the apple life. And you know Chiffon is always a great pal to Pear.” “I’m glad to hear that Granny Smith and Pear are getting along. I remember Pear telling me that the two had a hard time holding conversations together. What about you?” “Oh, I’m just doing dandy. Right now I’m on my way back to Sweet Apple Acre to drop off this here wagon.” Bud glanced at the wagon behind Bright and noticed that there were still a few apples still remaining inside. “Without selling all of your appels? You never allow that.” “Yeah, I tried to be quick on my wits today, but what can ya do when you have little time to work with?” “Why’s that?” Bud questioned. “Do you have somewhere to be?” “Sure do. Have a special occasion planned out for a friend.” “Really? What do you have planned?” “Sorry sis, but that’s a no-can-do. Stallions only.” “Only stallions, huh?” Bud peered at Bright who faltered his head back at her staring. “This special friend wouldn’t happen to be Carrot Cake, would it?” A brief bewilderment from Bright’s eyes was all the answer, Bud needed. “So it’s a bachelor party?” “Dang it sis, you know I don’t like it when you get analytical.” “I’m sorry, it’s a force of habit. But I promise I won’t tell any pony. Just as long as you and your friends don’t plan on doing anything too crazy.” “Hey now,” Bright wined. “You shouldn’t go threatening to rat out your favorite brother.” “Don’t worry, I know you’ll keep your friends in line. You’re not the kind to put them in harm’s way.” “Course I won’t. But a little loosening can’t hurt a stallion; especially for Carrot’s case. That pony has been jumpier than a rabbit. But don’t you worry sis, I got this all under control.” “I know you will.” Bright has always been a dependable stallion that every pony can open up to. His optimism is a gift that they all cherish, especially for Bud. Before meeting Bright, Bud had shunned herself at the Sugarcube Corner and only spent time with chiffon and pear when they were inside. It was Bright who persuaded her to come out and tour the ends of Ponyville. He made her feel secure outside and even made a habit call her his little ssis; probably due to her sisterly relationship with Pear. If not for Pear’s attachment with Bright, Bud may of had the courage to confess her feelings toward him. Having him by her side now would definitely bring her more comfort with NEbula and Artemis. “Anyhow, I’m mighty curious what you have back there,” Bright noted the stroller behind Bud. “Oh, right.” Bud still hadn’t thought of a way to introduce them yet. Bright and the others will no doubt have a lot of questions for her; most of which she is still incapable of answering. “Um…” “No need to be a shy filly sis. C’mon, I want a good look of em.” Bright unhooked himself from the wagon and strode beside Bud to look into the stroller. “Wow, twins. Now that’s unexpected.” Nebula finally snapped from her stupor when she registered the new voice ringing close to her ear. She immediately glared at the stranger and said, “Do you mind!? You’re ruining our...our…” The filly widened her eyes when she held a clearer look at the stallion before her. “Now she’s something you don’t see every day,” Bright commented. “Who is this cute little bloodsucker?” “T-that’s Nebula,” Bud answered after reeling from Bright’s approach. “Wait, be careful Bright. You don’t want to get too close to her. She bites.” “What? This adorable thing. Naw, she ain’t nothing bad. Ain’t that right Nebula?” Bright stretched his hoof into the stroller to rub Nebula’s belly. Bud was utterly floored when Nebula made no effort to resist him. “See there, she’s a nice little filly.” Bud widened and then narrowed her eyes at Nebula. What’s her game here? She had issues with every pony but Artemis when it comes to bearing their presence;even with her own mother, who she stills threatens to kill every now and then. But for Bright, a stallion who is a complete stranger to her, she’s honestly going to just smile and look cute in front of Bud? “You have some cute little foals here sis,” Bright continued. “Nice to know Little Mac already have some cousins to play with.” Bright turned his attention to Artemis when he noticed him trying to reach for his hoof. He complied with the colt and renewed his efforts onto Artemis’s belly. “Now what’s your name, huh?” Bright grinned when he got a chuckle out the colt. “His name is Artemis,” Bud answered. She watched in awe as Bright has now earned the affection of both her foals in less than a minute. He’s no doubt best father material if he can…”Wait, who’s Little Mac?” “How about I leave that to Pear. I should really be going now. But before that.” Bright returned to the wagon and grabbed a satchel from within. He then dunked a dozen of his remaining apples inside it and dropped it on Bud’s hoof. “Here ya go.” “I can ‘t take this,” Bud frowned. “Let me at least pay for them.” “No siree. These are on the house. It’s the least I can do for my family. Now you take care of yourself, alright?” Bright said as he reattached the wagon to himself. Bud sighed to herself. Knowing Bright, he wouldn’t take ‘no’ for an answer. Always the helpful stallion regardless the circumstances. Bud smiled and said,” Thank you Bright, I will.” “Good to hear. I’ll see ya later at the wedding,” Bright said and then made his way out of the marketplace. When he was no longer within sight, Bud turned her attention back to her daughter who resumed being groomed by Artemis. “What was that about?” “About what?” Nebula plainly questioned. “You’ll need to specify your words if you want a pony to understand.” Bud twitched her eyes and said, “You know what I mean. Your whole cutesy attitude with Bright. You’re usually cursing and threatening every pony around you.” “Oh, is the peasant mare surprised that Nightmare Moon can show courtesy? Your disgusting tales must picture me for a savage.” “Don’t change the subject,” Bud snapped. “Why did you react that way with Bright Mac?” “Hold your tongue if you wish to keep it,” Nebula threatened her mother, but Bud didn’t budge an inch. “Why does it even matter to you? What, are you jealous or something?” Bud widened at her daughter’s sudden accusation. “What? No…” “By the moon, I’m right, aren’t I?” Nebula began to laugh. “Now how sad is this: a grown mare jealous because her crush is pampering her young filly.” “How do you know about that!?” “You’re so naive,” Nebula laughed harder. “I wasn’t even phishing for a confession, but now this is far more amusing. To be fair, it is me. A plain mare like you pales in comparison to a higher being like myself.” “You’re a cruel meanie, you know that.” Bud mouthed as her daughter continued to laugh at her mother’s embarrassment. The Sugarcube Corner was as unique and conspicuous as she remembered it to be. This building hold so many fond memories of her foalhood. She did live here many years ago after certain event with her parents. The Swirls were a comforting company, and she was ecstatic to be seeing them again. Inside, Bud discovered a familiar pony checking out a stallion at a counter. The stallion picked a white box atop his back and made his way past Bud and her group. Before leaving the shop, the stallion gave his regard, “See you tomorrow at your daughter’s wedding.” The cashier behind the counter waved at the stallion and then donned his sight at Bud’s group. “You’ve finally come. And I see you brought some new faces.” “Uncle Gossamer,” Bud cheered as she pushed the stroller before the counter. Gossamer came around it and gave Bud a hug. “I’m so glad to see you again.” “As am I,” he responded. “But don’t you think you have two ponies you should introduce me to?” “Right,” Bud pulled back from her Uncle. Of course, he would want her to immediately address the two foals in her stroller. “Th-these are my foals.” Bud stepped from Gossamer so that he can approach them. Bud pointed her hoof at Artemis, in which the colt responded by teething upon it. “This is my son Artemis, and this is my daughter Nebula.” Nebula gave a cold stare at the old stallion while Artemis glanced curiously at him. Gossamer then asked, “Why does she look like a baby vampony? It’s not even close to Nightmare Night and you’re already dressing up your baby.” “S-she’s not wearing a costume,” Bud mentioned. “...huh? I don’t want to sound rude, but what exactly is he? I’ve never seen anything like her in my life. And I’ve seen plenty.” “She is your great niece,” Hope voiced as she approached the two. “Don’t be so overly observant of things, you’ll scare her.” “I’m just curious,” Gossamer responded. “I’m just finding out now that I’m a great uncle. Heh, didn’t think I would be bearing that title so soon. I’m not even an official father-in-law yet.” “You’re not upset, are you,” Bud worriedly asked. “Oh no no,” Gossamer hurriedly answered. “It’s nothing like that. I’m happy for you Bud. I know for a long while you wanted this. I’m just curious of the stallion or creature you’re partnered with.” “Oh,” Bud wasn’t looking forward to that explanation. “Okay then.” “Honey,” a mare’s voice was heard from a nearby room. “Is that Bud and Hope I hear?” A blue mare with a polka-dot apron entered the room and gaped her mouth when she spotted the stroller. “No way.” “Come look here Blueberry,” Gossamer said. “Our Bud has brought us twins.” “Twins!” Blueberry rushed over and inched her head into the stroller. Both of the foals faltered at the mare’s sudden entrance. Nebula took the initiative to display her fangs with a growl she hopelessly failed to make intimidating. “I can’t believe it,” Blueberry was in awe. “She actually did it. And they're so precious.” “H-hi Auntie Blue,” Bud nervously voiced. Blueberry bore her sights upon her niece and surprised her with a hug. “Oh, I’m so proud of you. I don’t even care that I’ve lost 20 bits.” “You bet 20 bits!” Gossamer shouted. “What?” Blueberry said. “I didn’t think I would lose. The odds seemed stacked in my favor.” “What are you talking about Auntie Blue?” Bud asked. “Oh sis,” Hope pulled her daughter from Blueberry. “There you go spouting random things again. I’m sure we have more important things to discuss.” “It apparently is important if Auntie Blue bet 20 bits,” Bud argued. Blueberry sighed and then said, “Hope, I think it’s fair that she knows.” Bud broke off from her mother and returned to her Aunt. “You see, your mother and I were having talks after news of Pear’s marriage. At some point, our conversation came onto grand foals and your mother made a small bet that you would bear a foal before Chiffon. And well, you know how competitive we sisters get with our bets.” Bud turned to her mother, who was now averting her gaze to a window. Bud coldly stated, “you made a bet that I would get pregnant before Chiffon?” “It’s not as bad as you think,” Hope anxiously smiled. “It was all in good fun.” “Don’t tell me that’s why you sent me to Manehattan?”Bud asked. “Was that all just so you can win some bet?” “Bud,” Hope’s face was now serious. “I...We would never do anything to put our daughters in harm’s way. Even over a bet; no matter how many bits we threw on the table. I only sent you way so you can find your happiness like I did. you made the decision yourself that Manehattan was where it is.” “I guess you’re right,” Bud admitted. “But I still think this requires a punishment. I’ve already told you how much I don’t like your gambling problem.” “What?” Hope widened. “Come now Bud, be fair. It was just between us sisters. It’s not like we were hurting any pony.” “I’m sorry mom, but it’s for your own good.” Bud then called, “Lazuli.” “Yeah,” Lazuli and Raven were observing cakes through glass displays. I’m going upstairs to see Chiffon,” Bud started, but then looked to Gossamer. “Chiffon is here, right?” “She is,” Gossamer answered. “Pear is with her as well.” “Even better.” Bud returned her sights to Lazuli. “Lazuli, can you watch my foals while I’m gone?” “Sure, no problem.” “Also, be sure that my mom and auntie get no time with while I’m away.” “What!?” Both Hope and Blueberry shouted. “Let this be a lesson to never make bets between your daughters. I’m sure Chiffon will say the same.” “A fair decision I say,” Gossamer agreed, earning a scowl from Hope and his wife. Bud pushed the stroller to Lazuli’s hooves as her mother began to whine, “This is cruel Bud. HOw can you do this to us?” “You’ll be fine.” Bud heads up the stairs but then stops when she heard a cry from the stroller. Bud immediately returns to Lazuli and ask, “What’s wrong?” Bud peered into the stroller and saw her son widening at the sight of her and then flailing his hooves out for her. Bud adhered to her son and picked him out from the stroller. Nebula then voiced, “You’re just going to leave me here?” After Bud settled Artemis within her hoof and she then whispered to her daughter, “Think of this as a good opportunity to make friends with Lazuli.” “And why should I bother to associate myself with this brute,” Nebula retorted. “That brute happens to be my friend. And my roomate.” “Ugh, you mean to tell me that I am forever to endure this mare’s company?” “Just try to get along with her, okay? If not for me, then for Artemis.” Nebula furrowed at her mother’s suggestion, but then frowned when looking towards Artemis, who was jumping in jubilation towards Bud’s face. He looks so silly and disgraceful compared to her former self, but she swore to the moon that she wouldn’t let anything steal that joy from him; not even herself. Nebula sighed, “Fine, I’ll offer the brute a chance to redeem herself. However, in exchange for my generosity, I demand a slice of cake.” “I should really say no, but if you promise to be on your best behavior, then I’ll allow it.” Bud craned to Lazuli’s ear and informed her to buy a slice of cake for her daughter. Bud then returns to her venture upstairs as she ignored the pleas from her mother and aunt for their forgiveness.