The New Equestria - All Creatures Welcome!by Yosh-E-OChaptersChapter 1 - The Immigration InitiativeChapter 2 - Meet Becky, Swift, And YoshChapter 3 - Cultural ExchangeChapter 4 - Union Of Nations & New BeginningsChapter 1 - The Immigration InitiativeThe coronation of Princess Twilight Sparkle brought about a whirlwind of changes within Equestria. The most notable, and often brought up in council, was the ‘Immigration Initiative’. This decree was an executive order by Princess Twilight, approved by her Ambassador Of Friendship, Spike The Dragon, and put into action when The Council was having meetings with various Kirin, Griffon, Hippogriff, Changeling, and Dragon representatives after all had joined forces to defeat Chrysalis, Cozy glow, and Tirek. *** To facilitate The Immigration Initiative, Twilight sent out her friends, who also happened to be The Elements Of harmony, to the four corners of the world in an effort to unite all creatures through friendship. *** One nation was where Captain Celaeno and her crew hailed from. It was an archipelago nation of avians known as The Budgin. They were a humble race of curious birds who delighted in the collection of knowledge, jewels, and building upon their proud traditions of honoring the one who united each island’s inhabitants through mutual respect of the wind beneath their wings and the rain that nourished their land. *** The Canterlot Council OF Unified Ponies, which consisted of seven elected Pegasi, Unicorns, and Earth Ponies, had their concerns on opening Equestria’s borders to every creature who wished to enter the country. This brought The Elements and Princess Twilight to negotiate a trial period wherein Spike, Ambassador Of Friendship, would oversee a willing and selected group of creatures from each newly engaged country as they familiarized themselves with the ponies of equestria. *** One of the first immigrants was a respected elder within the Budgin community by the name of Becky. She had already raised her chicks and her grand chicks were at an age where they no longer had need of their grandmother. Becky’s closest friends were worried about her upon the passing of her husband and felt The Immigration Initiative would help her find ways to apply herself to fill the time that she would otherwise feel alone and without purpose. *** “Thanks for the teacakes!” announced Spike The Dragon as he was concluding his scheduled visit with Becky in her humble apartment. “So no troubles from any creature?” Becky sipped at her tea and gingerly placed it back down on a coaster. “Everything-is-just-so-wonderful!” she quickly chirped. “I-am-so-glad-that-you-all-were-so-kind-to-let-an-old-birdy-like-me-be-a-part-of-your-wonderful-program-to-help-our-world-become-friends!” Becky’s elder age did not show as she could talk as quickly and clearly as Spike’s friend, Gabby Griffon. “You certainly are delightful to be around,” replied the teenage, purple dragon. “Though, no offense, you may want to slow down how fast you talk. Some creatures aren’t quite comfortable with so much, uh, enthusiasm?” The blue-feathered bird let out a bashful laugh as she nervously adjusted her glasses. “Sorry,” she said humbly. “I suppose you could call it a quirk of mine. I just get so excited when I am a part of something as exciting as this little program of yours.” The emerald-eyed dragon nodded his head and smiled. “Don’t worry about it,” he added. “I’m still getting used to this whole ‘Friendship Ambassador’ thing.” Becky’s maternal side kicked in as she reached a wing out to pat at Spike’s shoulder. “You’re doing just fine,” she said. “I’d be lying if I didn’t say how much you remind me of my grand chick, silver.” Now it was Spike’s turn to blush. “Well,” he replied while finishing his tea. “Do you mind if I bring a friend over with me during our next visit? Her name is Gabby and she is a griffon I just know would hit it off well with you.” “If she’s as cute as you,” cooed Becky while starting to clean up her tea set. “I’m sure I’ll love getting to know her.” Spike’s blush grew larger. He wasn’t used to such a motherly creature. “Okay,” he laughed nervously. “See you next month.” “Oh!” called Becky as Spike opened the door to leave. “I’ll-have-that-new-apron-ready-for-you-the-next-time-you-come-by! It’s-going-to-look-so-adorable-on-you!” Spike couldn’t find a word to say from how open and carefree Becky was. So he gave her a ‘thumbs up’ before heading out and closing the door behind him. *** AUTHOR’S NOTE: Becky, along with other ‘fast talking’ characters, will have their moments of talking too fast underlined to help make it less distracting for the duration of the story. *** Becky was happily humming a tune while dusting off the many family photos she had framed and hung throughout her apartment. The Immigration Initiative did not provide spacious homes for the initial wave of ‘Test Immigrants’. However it was just the right size for a humble old bird whose treasures were more personal than tangible. KNOCK-KNOCK The blue-colored birdy cooed upon hearing the knock at her door. Today was a very special day for her. She was getting some very special visitors. “Come in!” she said in a sing-song tweet. CA-CLICK “Hello!” greeted a yellow-coated shih tzu who had her hair tied up with jingly bells. “I present to you Mayor Yosh and Swift!” Swift, who was an elementary-aged penguin boy, hid himself behind Isabelle as Yosh, a hybrid of both dragon and duck, walked forward with a smile on his beak and extended his hand. “Pleased to meet you,” he greeted. “It is a pleasure to meet one of the first new immigrants into Equestria.” Becky was a little confused by how Yosh was standing too far away for her to comfortably shake his hand. She also noticed how he didn’t look much older than Swift. How could he be the mayor of a town?” “Three steps, Mr. Mayor,” stated the green vest and skirt wearing canine. Yosh moved closer to Becky and extended his hand. “Sorry,” he blushed. “As you can tell, I can’t see.” The black-spotted grandma bird adjusted her glasses again. She then took a good look at Yosh and how his eyes were an icy-blue color. “Pleased to meet you,” she greeted nervously while shaking the dragon-duck’s hand. “Don’t worry,” Yosh replied. “I tell ‘blind jokes’ and do not mind if you want to ask any questions during our stay.” “You got this, Swift,” encouraged the buck-toothed doggy. “I hear she makes really yummy cookies.” The young penguin looked down to his feet while proceeding into the apartment. “Ah!” beamed Becky. “You must be Swift! I hear you may need a fun and safe place to stay between classes while your parents are at work.” “Yes mam,” he replied shyly as he clasped his flippers and continued to stare at the carpeted floor. “I have some official business to take care of,” the dog stated. “You birdies have fun!” Yosh turned and waved towards the door. “Thanks, Isabelle!” he called. “I’m sure we’re all going to have a most wonderful time!” CA-THUNK Becky now had two new friends to talk to. One was blind and outgoing while the other was quite bashful. She also knew the penguin, Swift, was ten years old while the dragon-duck appeared like an overgrown toddler. “Well,” she said merrily. “How’s about I give both my special guests a taste of my Budgin Coconut Brownies!” “Sounds yummy!” replied Yosh as he appeared to be scanning the room. “Yes, mam,” was all Swift could muster. The young penguin still getting more a look at the clean carpet than having yet given Becky direct eye contact. “Alright!” she flapped happily. “Let the fun begin!” End – Part 1 Chapter 2 - Meet Becky, Swift, And YoshIt had been quite awhile since Becky had ‘little ones’ in her nest. She was still trying to understand how the beaked dragon was able to run a town. Someone like him looked more fit for Primary School over overseeing a town. Though she knew to mind her manners and decided to let the visit help her understand the dragon-duck through their interactions. On the other hand, swift was the prime example of a Primary School kid. He was shy, nervous, and staying safe in Becky’s presence through calling her ‘mam’. It was a show of respect, likely taught to him by his parents, but she needed to get him to be more focused on having fun over counting the fibers in her carpet. “Oh!” cooed the blue-colored Budgin bird. “You both brought backpacks with you? Perhaps there are games you would like to play?” The dragon-duck, Yosh, blushed. “I brought snacks, a tablet, crayons, and a pencil to draw pictures,” stated Swift. Becky smiled. Ooh!” she chirped with enthusiasm. “My refrigerator could really use some art on it. Perhaps you two can draw some pictures for me at the kitchen table while I bake my Budgin Brownies?” Yosh gulped. “Would it be alright if I talked with you while you baked?” he asked nervously. “Canine Crossroads, which is the town I help run with Isabelle, is interested in bringing in some new immigrants to enrich our recently built Medical Center & University.” Becky thought for a moment and realized she had made a little faux pas in suggesting that the dragon-duck should draw a picture. Not that a blind creature could not do art, but it is probably not the best thing to suggest to someone without sight when meeting them for the first time. “Do pardon me,” she said nervously. “I-” “-No worries, Ms. Becky,” Yosh interjected. “I’ve had a lot of help from Spike, Princess Luna, Doodle Noodle, and Isabelle to not get so upset over having lost my eyesight.” Swift waddled closer and waved his hand-like flipper in front of Yosh’s face. Yosh smiled. “I know that is you, Swift,” he giggled. “I’m getting better at identifying how close I am to things along with what creatures I come to meet in my travels.” Becky was nervous over the young penguin’s sudden burst of curiosity. However it was good to see Swift paying more attention to something beyond the quality of her living room carpet. “My grandparents don’t see too good,” stated the curious penguin. “Sometimes I help them to not waddle into things in their igloo apartment.” Yosh reached for Swift and managed to successfully put his hand on the young penguin’s shoulder. “We all need help sometimes,” he stated. “I normally prefer creatures asking me if I need help before they just take hold of me and move me about as if I’m a lost hatchling.” Becky felt her cheerfulness return. Her two guests were getting along and she was getting to know both of them by seeing them just talking about each other’s adventures. It was almost enough to bring a tear to the elderly bird as she felt memories of her chicks, their friends, and her grand chicks while she and her husband delighted in the pitter-patter of little feet upon their treehouse nest. “…What’s that?” Swift asked as Becky found herself paying attention to the duo’s discussion. Yosh was holding a staff-like stick that had a magnifying lens of sorts positioned on top of it. “This?” he said while tossing the staff from one hand to the other. “This is my ‘Sight Stick’.” Swift looked closely at the lens-like orb at the top of the staff. “It doesn’t look like a magnifying glass?” he questioned. “Looks more like one of the ‘Snow Globe Playgrounds’ back from where I am from. Yosh held the staff up and towards the curious penguin and pressed on a button that was not seen in Swift’s initial inspection. CLICK SNAP “There is a penguin that stands about four feet tall approximately one foot away from you.” a voice stated. “Five feet away is a Budgin who stands about two feet taller than you.” “wow!” clapped Swift. “Are you seeing this, Mam?? He has a magical talking stick!” Becky felt a warm and happy chuckle that she had not felt since her children and grandchildren had grown up. Swift was getting excited over the tool Yosh used and the dragon-duck, who still seemed like a toddler, was delighting in doing some ‘Show And Tell’ with the curious penguin. “Can I try it?” asked Swift. “I’m sure there has got to be some really cool bugs and other small things I could find with such a cool magnifying glass!” Becky shuddered at the thought she would ever allow insects to be anywhere in her home outside of her pantry. Though it did give her a better look at what Swift was interested in. Perhaps he wasn’t looking at the floor out of shyness as much as to distract himself by finding something to get his mind to not feel so bashful about meeting her for the first time? “Sorry, Swift,” Yosh sighed. “In the wrong hands, my ‘Sight Stick’ could be used to do some not so kind things. To prevent this, Princess Celestia, Luna, and Twilight all put a spell on it that will only allow it to be used by me, or Isabelle.” Swift lowered his flippers and pouted. “Oh,” he said before perking back up. “How about, if I find something neat, I tell you and you use the magic stick to see it, too, and we both learn new things and stuff?” Yosh grinned. “A swell idea,” he replied before looking towards where he felt Becky was still standing. “However I do think we should first take our wonderful host up on those brownies.” Becky knelt before Swift. “Would you like to help me make them?” she asked. Feeling less timid from seeing Yosh’s ‘sight Stick’ coupled with the elder Budgin kneeling to properly face him, Swift felt far more comfortable in taking in the beak, eyes, and other facial features of Becky he had really not allowed himself to look at earlier. “As long as I don’t get burned,” he said with a bit of concern. “Mommy and daddy don’t want me getting near the stoves and ovens that ponies have. They say I could really hurt my flippers and the heat from one of those burner things is enough to make me have to go to the hospital.” Becky put a wing upon Swift’s shoulder. “Don’t you worry,” she said in a very maternal voice. “I’ll take care of the oven while you help me mix and stir the ingredients at the table.” Swift nodded. FWUMP PAP-PAP Yosh extended out his ‘Sight Stick’ and listened for where the small living room opened up to another part of the apartment. “Is the table this way?” he asked while pointing very closely to the kitchen table.” “Golly!” chirped Becky. “Are you sure you can’t see at all?” Yosh blushed as a smile grew upon his beak. “I use my mind’s eye,” he proudly replied. “It helps me find what my non-working eyes can’t see.” *** As the trio got settled into the kitchen, Becky had started to make some observations of her own. The most notable is that Yosh, the mayor of Canine Crossroads, appeared to have a ‘diaper butt’. She also swore she heard a slight rustling sound as the dragon-duck took to the chair opposite of Swift. “Do you have any other nifty gadgets and gizmos?” asked Swift. “Perhaps anything you wouldn’t mind letting me have so I can do some more exploring? Canterlot has lots of cool bugs, rocks, and other stuff I just got to see and learn about.” Becky was going to lightly scold Swift for asking Yosh for stuff. However there was no need as the dragon-duck simply said he had left his older visual aids back at Canine Crossroads. “Here you go, Swift,” she cooed while placing a mixing bowl in front of the penguin. “I’ll let you lick the spoon if you promise not to make a mess.” “Oh, boy!” the little penguin cheered. “I promise to not make a mess.” Yosh blushed and shifted in his chair. “Everything alright, sweetie?” asked Becky. Being in ‘mommy mode’ for so long made her quite familiar with spotting even the slightest of movements, facial expressions, and other childlike behavior. The dragon-duck broke out in a cold sweat as he shuffled in the chair. “Might I ask to use your bathroom?” he asked as calmly as he could. The blue Budgin was prepping to walk Yosh to the bathroom when she remembered that he wasn’t a toddler. “It’s actually in the room right behind you,” she stated while gesturing her wing towards a closed wooden door. “You should be able to find it easy once you walk in the direction that is behind your chair and use that special stick to give the door a knock.” Yosh grimaced and groaned as he shuffled out of the chair, held out his stick, and waddled with a spread gate towards the door. He used the tip of the stick’s bottom to determine where the door itself was in comparison to the rest of the wall, desperately reached for the doorknob, found the knob, and let out a bit of a grunt as he quickly made his way into the bathroom. “I think he pooped his pants,” Swift said softly. “Grown-ups don’t go potty in their pants, right?” Becky was at a loss for words. However she did remember the bag Yosh had brought in and how it was back in the living room. “Just a moment, sweetie,” she said to Swift as she retrieved the backpack and proceeded towards the bathroom door. KNOCK KNOCK “I don’t want to invade your privacy,” she stated while hearing Yosh’s stick hit upon the other side of the door. “Though my stuff is a bit everywhere in there and I thought you may have something special for cleaning up in your backpack.” CA-REEK Yosh’s hand reached out for the bag, Becky handed it to him, and he quickly retreated back into the unlit bathroom. Swift was curious as to what was going on. However, being a wise and caring old Budgin, Becky quickly redirected the young penguin’s attention back to the task of making coconut brownies with her while leaving Yosh to his business. End Of Part Two Chapter 3 - Cultural ExchangeBecky had a wide smile across her beak as she gathered all the ingredients and tools for Swift to make her Budgin Coconut Brownies. So many wonderful memories filled her mind and, perhaps for the first time since moving to Canterlot, she started to see a happy future with the ponies and her fellow immigrants. “Do you have any fish?” the little penguin asked. “I should probably be having some lunch before I just eat brownies.” The blue, black-spotted elder adjusted her glasses while trying to think on how to answer. “Well,” she said. “Where I am from, we mostly eat fruits, bugs, and nuts.” “That’s okay,” Swift replied while scooting out of his chair and heading into the tiny living room area. “My parents packed me a pouch of Tasty Tuna in case I got hungry.” Becky thought for a moment. “What is it like where you come from?” she asked with genuine curiosity. The young penguin got out his vacuum-sealed lunch and opened it. “It’s really cool!” he chirped. “Both in the temperature and fun way!” Becky grabbed a napkin and a plate and sat it at a different spot on the table. “Really?” she continued to ask. “What is the most fun thing you do back from where you are from?” Swift hopped into the seat and emptied his tuna onto the plate. “Belly sledding!” he beamed with joy. “There is a big slope near our home back home that makes you go super fast and then gets you out into the open water!” “Ooh!” Becky said while imagining such a form of entertainment. “Reminds me of the water parks we have back from where I am from.” “What’s a water park?” the young penguin asked while eating at his tuna. Becky went to the fridge for some lemonade she had prepared earlier. “There is no snow where I come from,” she replied. “So, for fun in the water, we built large bathing areas where we can all privately, or publicly, groom ourselves. These places often have special pools with slides and planks for Budgin of all ages to play about in fresh water instead of the salty waters of the ocean.” “Fresh water?” wondered Swift. “Is it that water that tastes and feels funny in the bathroom?” Becky delighted in the young penguin’s curiosity while placing a wooden cup of lemonade in front of him to drink. “That would be it,” she replied. “It is water without the salt. Though, now that I think about it, I think the ponies put other things in the water to make it ‘cleaner’?” “Cleaner?” wondered the little penguin as he finished his tuna and went for the lemonade. “Water is clean where I am from. Water doesn’t need anything to make it ‘better’.” “Perhaps,” added the apron-wearing elder bird. “You and I can take a trip around Canterlot to learn more about what the ponies do with their water? I know you’ve made me curious to find out.” Swift flapped his flippers at his sides as he giggled merrily. “Kind of like a field trip?” he asked. “I love getting to go to fun places and learn new things!” Becky allowed herself a jovial guffaw as she placed a wing on the young penguin’s shoulder. “We can do all that when you come over to my place while we wait for your parents to get off of work,” she stated. “It will be a great way to pass the time.” PUNP-PUNP CA-CLICK “Sorry about that,” Yosh said as he used his ‘Sight Stick’ to get back to his chair. “How is everything?” Becky poured a glass of lemonade and put it in front of the dragon-duck. “Swift and I were just talking about where we came from,” she replied while gently using her wing on the wooden cup to help the blind dragon-duck safely take hold of it. “I understand you are not quite sure where you are from and have traveled to many places.” Swift finished his tuna, slipped out of his chair, and returned to where all the baking supplies were. “Well,” pondered Yosh while tapping a finger to his bill. “What I have talked about with Doodle Noodle has gotten me to think of how I’ve lived in two places with each one being a life of its own.” The young penguin was confused, but quickly distracted as Becky brought out her recipe book and started helping him mix the ingredients. “I think I understand,” she replied. “Kind of like moving to Canterlot was the start of a new life for me.” Yosh’s head moved about as if he was trying to find something. “Yeah,” he stated upon attempting to look to where he had heard Becky’s voice. “Everything is brand new and wonderful to discover.” “Who’s Doodle Noodle?” inquired Swift as he started to stir a mixture of cocoa, coconut, and milk that had been properly measured and placed into the mixing bowl. “Sounds like what we call squids.” Yosh and Becky both laughed. “Doodle Noodle is a pony,” Yosh answered. “She used to see me almost daily to help me be okay with losing my eyesight.” “But you have eyes?” continued swift while the elder Budgin put a little pat of butter into the mixture. “You see with eyes and you have two that, being weird, are still eyes.” Becky was going to say something, but noticed that Yosh was smiling. “It’s hard to explain,” the green-and-white colored dragon-duck stated while nervously stroking his upper-most head spike. “My eyes being the color of snow and ice are a way that they let others know I can’t see anything with them. They are broken beyond repair.” It was Swift’s turn to make some fun, facial gestures as he thought on what he was just told. “Ice isn’t blue,” he replied as he mixed the batter that Becky had added small amounts of sugar, cinnamon, and salt to. “Ice is white like my tummy.” Yosh blushed. “Good point,” he said with a little giggle. “I may need my friend, Isabelle, to help better explain.” “The yellow doggy?” asked Swift. “She has funny teeth.” Becky placed a wing gently upon Swift’s shoulder. “Perhaps Yosh can tell us about Canine Crossroads?” she suggested. Yosh’s stubby tail wiggled as he placed his hands upon the table. “That I can tell you about,” he said. “It’s about a day’s train ride away from here and part of The Nook Nation.” “Nook Nation?” wondered Becky while grabbing a cookie sheet and using some butter to prep it for the brownies Swift was going to make. “That’s a most interesting name.” “It is,” Yosh replied while drumming his fingers on the table and sliding about on his seat. “It is a region of land owned by a raccoon by the name of Tom Nook. He’s the eighth Nook to oversee the country. Though, as I have come to learn, he is primarily concerned in money. He only comes to Canine Crossroads to ask us what we may need from the national stockpile, give us prices for building things, and to collect tax for the space our town takes up within his family’s country.” What kind of money do you use?” asked Becky. “Our archipelago uses ‘Biddles’. However the biddle is not usually used as our people primarily focus in trading resources and services for what we need.” “We use ‘Pebbles’,” stated Swift as he started to use his flippers to make balls from the mixture to put on the cookie sheet. “They are hard to find and only spent if you could not get what you needed by yourself from the glacier, or ocean.” “We use ‘Bells’,” stated Yosh. “Bells are oak leaves that have been covered with different amounts of silver and gold to show their value.” “Ah!” Becky chirped. “Kind of like how Equestrians have the ‘Bit’? Most exchanges are done with bits, to my knowledge.” “Kind of,” stated Yosh as he shuffled in his chair. This time Becky took notice of the rustling sound that accompanied the dragon-duck’s movements. Swift was losing interest in talking about money. So, not wanting to draw unnecessary attention to her guest, Becky changed the subject. “Perhaps I can come visit your town?” she suggested while helping the little penguin arrange all the unbaked brownies on the cookie sheet. “Ooh!” clapped Swift. “Could that be one of our field trips, too, Ms. Becky?” The elder Budgin felt so many wonderful emotions with Swift having taken to her. She was very worried at the start, but it would seem he was going to be just like her grandchildren. It was nice to feel needed as well as wanted. “Well,” she chuckled while patting the penguin on his head. “I think your mommy and daddy will need to be a part of that long of a trip.” It was Swift’s turn to wiggle about merrily in his seat. “I’ll ask!” he cheered. “You are such fun, Ms. Becky! You’re almost as good as the ‘Big Daddy’ at ‘Hatchling Care’!” “Thank you, Swift,” she complimented while putting the uncooked brownies into the oven and setting a timer for thirty minutes. “How about we clean off the table and play a game while we wait for our brownies to finish?” “Ooh!” wiggled Swift. “Can I use your bathroom before we play?” “Sure thing,” she assured while gesturing to the door that Yosh had been directed to. “Don’t forget to wash your hands.” Swift made his way into the bathroom and shut the door while Becky realized there may be a problem. However Yosh appeared unconcerned as they shared more words while their young friend attended to his business. End Of Part 3 Chapter 4 - Union Of Nations & New BeginningsThere was an awkward pause after Swift entered into Becky’s apartment bathroom and audibly clicked the lock into place. “Sorry,” the dragon-duck stated nervously. “Though I assure you I left no mess in your bathroom.” Becky lifted a wing to her beak as she tried to process what she had just heard. “Birth condition,” continued Yosh. “Almost had it managed, thanks to Isabelle, until I got involved in one of those ‘Save The World’ situations.” “Oh…,” the elder Budgin awed with both interest and confusion. “It’s a long story,” the dragon-duck replied while shuffling himself to close the distance between the table and himself. “I’m sure everyone at the archipelago is used to such events happening, too.” “Now that you mention it,” said Becky while tapping her feathery-fingers upon her beak. “My homeland does have a number of myths and legends on Budgin who fought off monsters and overcoming impossible odds.” Yosh flashed a smile as he faced straight at where he heard Becky’s voice coming from. “I’d love to hear some of those stories,” he chirped while pointing a finger to the center of his forehead. “My physical eyes may not work, but my mind’s eye is clear as the day I hatched.” CA-CLICK FWOO KA-KLOK “Did I hear something about stories?” cheered a very enthusiastic Swift. “Can we hear some of your stories?” Becky hesitated for a moment as her initial concern was that the young penguin may have forgotten to wash his hands. Though the scent of her lava-rock soap made her know that the responsible youngster had washed his flippers and his face. “Well,” she considered. “Would you prefer a story to playing a game?” Yosh looked to where he heard Swift take his seat. “Please?” pleaded the young penguin with the most adorable puppy dog eyes the Budgin had ever seen in years. The blue and black-spotted bird looked to see there was still about twenty-five minutes left on the timer for the brownies. This was more than enough time to tell a story, or two. “Oh, you guys talked me into it,” she sang while getting the lemonade back out of the refrigerator. “Anyone for a refill of juice before I start?” *** Becky had time for two stories before the brownies were done. She then had time for another while the baked treats cooled enough to be safely eaten. Not too long after did Isabelle return from what she had gone to talk about with Princess Twilight Sparkle about. “I assume all was well, Mr. Mayor?” the buck-toothed, yellow shih-tzu inquired towards Yosh. “It was a wonderful time,” he replied while making his way to Isabelle and taking hold of her hand. “I look forward to when you are either able to come to Canine Crossroads, or you may treat us to seeing the archipelago, Ms. Becky.” “You’re welcome,” she blushed from all the compliments and fun she had up to this point in her day. “And you are most welcome.” “Do I have to leave now, too?” pouted Swift. “I want to hear more stories and play a game!” Yosh, Isabelle, and Becky all laughed. “Nope,” stated the elder Budgin. “You’re stuck with me until your parents get off of work.” Swift clapped his flippers together and then drummed upon the table with excitement. “Are you visiting any other immigrants, uh, Mayor Yosh?” Becky inquired. “Not today,” the dragon-duck replied. “Isabelle and I have a meeting with the visiting delegation from Hope Hollow.” “Hope Hollow?” wondered both Swift and Becky at almost the same time. “They, like us, are in Canterlot for the next day,” added Isabelle. “We are interested in their Rainbow Celebration and how we may be able to have a similar event in Canine Crossroads.” “The citizens of our town really like special events and we get a lot of tourists from nearby towns and islands,” Yosh continued. “However we want to encourage further visits from equestria, The Dragon Lands, and The Budgin Archipelago.” “Oh?” inquired Becky. “We do have our fair share of celebrations and cultural events that, truly, would be nice to see honored here in Equestria and beyond.” Yosh slipped on his backpack. “Would you mind if we popped in tomorrow to talk about how we could get to know and make positive relations with the Budgin?” asked Isabelle. “Sounds like a date!” chirped Becky. Isabelle tugged upon Yosh’s arm to hint that it was time to go. “Well,” the dragon-duck said. “We’ll be by at about 11:00 AM then.” “It’s a date!” the elder Budgin stated while waving her wing. *** Becky enjoyed her time with just Swift. They shared stories, played a game of cards, and shared their thoughts on Yosh and Isabelle. Yosh’s potty problems only came up long enough for Swift to apologize for having thought the dragon-duck had done anything of the sort. The bathroom was as clean as he could believe any place to do your private business could ever be. This got a discussion about how losing one ‘sense’ is really not the end of being able to enjoy life. However both did agree that they’d prefer to keep all their senses for as long as possible and knew they should not forget to see their respective doctors who practiced in The Immigration Initiative. *** Becky almost started crying when Swift teared up over having to go home with his parents. She could not believe how fond of her he had become after such a rough and nervous start. Fortunately, as tomorrow was another work day, Swift was told he’d be able to not only spend time with his new babysitter, but also that it was okay if the pair went on ‘education adventures’. And this was but the start of many warm and wonderful new memories for Becky. It was nice to feel needed, wanted, and be able to be a mother figure along with a possible ambassador between The Nook Nation and her homeland of The Budgin Archipelago.
Chapter 1 - The Immigration InitiativeThe coronation of Princess Twilight Sparkle brought about a whirlwind of changes within Equestria. The most notable, and often brought up in council, was the ‘Immigration Initiative’. This decree was an executive order by Princess Twilight, approved by her Ambassador Of Friendship, Spike The Dragon, and put into action when The Council was having meetings with various Kirin, Griffon, Hippogriff, Changeling, and Dragon representatives after all had joined forces to defeat Chrysalis, Cozy glow, and Tirek. *** To facilitate The Immigration Initiative, Twilight sent out her friends, who also happened to be The Elements Of harmony, to the four corners of the world in an effort to unite all creatures through friendship. *** One nation was where Captain Celaeno and her crew hailed from. It was an archipelago nation of avians known as The Budgin. They were a humble race of curious birds who delighted in the collection of knowledge, jewels, and building upon their proud traditions of honoring the one who united each island’s inhabitants through mutual respect of the wind beneath their wings and the rain that nourished their land. *** The Canterlot Council OF Unified Ponies, which consisted of seven elected Pegasi, Unicorns, and Earth Ponies, had their concerns on opening Equestria’s borders to every creature who wished to enter the country. This brought The Elements and Princess Twilight to negotiate a trial period wherein Spike, Ambassador Of Friendship, would oversee a willing and selected group of creatures from each newly engaged country as they familiarized themselves with the ponies of equestria. *** One of the first immigrants was a respected elder within the Budgin community by the name of Becky. She had already raised her chicks and her grand chicks were at an age where they no longer had need of their grandmother. Becky’s closest friends were worried about her upon the passing of her husband and felt The Immigration Initiative would help her find ways to apply herself to fill the time that she would otherwise feel alone and without purpose. *** “Thanks for the teacakes!” announced Spike The Dragon as he was concluding his scheduled visit with Becky in her humble apartment. “So no troubles from any creature?” Becky sipped at her tea and gingerly placed it back down on a coaster. “Everything-is-just-so-wonderful!” she quickly chirped. “I-am-so-glad-that-you-all-were-so-kind-to-let-an-old-birdy-like-me-be-a-part-of-your-wonderful-program-to-help-our-world-become-friends!” Becky’s elder age did not show as she could talk as quickly and clearly as Spike’s friend, Gabby Griffon. “You certainly are delightful to be around,” replied the teenage, purple dragon. “Though, no offense, you may want to slow down how fast you talk. Some creatures aren’t quite comfortable with so much, uh, enthusiasm?” The blue-feathered bird let out a bashful laugh as she nervously adjusted her glasses. “Sorry,” she said humbly. “I suppose you could call it a quirk of mine. I just get so excited when I am a part of something as exciting as this little program of yours.” The emerald-eyed dragon nodded his head and smiled. “Don’t worry about it,” he added. “I’m still getting used to this whole ‘Friendship Ambassador’ thing.” Becky’s maternal side kicked in as she reached a wing out to pat at Spike’s shoulder. “You’re doing just fine,” she said. “I’d be lying if I didn’t say how much you remind me of my grand chick, silver.” Now it was Spike’s turn to blush. “Well,” he replied while finishing his tea. “Do you mind if I bring a friend over with me during our next visit? Her name is Gabby and she is a griffon I just know would hit it off well with you.” “If she’s as cute as you,” cooed Becky while starting to clean up her tea set. “I’m sure I’ll love getting to know her.” Spike’s blush grew larger. He wasn’t used to such a motherly creature. “Okay,” he laughed nervously. “See you next month.” “Oh!” called Becky as Spike opened the door to leave. “I’ll-have-that-new-apron-ready-for-you-the-next-time-you-come-by! It’s-going-to-look-so-adorable-on-you!” Spike couldn’t find a word to say from how open and carefree Becky was. So he gave her a ‘thumbs up’ before heading out and closing the door behind him. *** AUTHOR’S NOTE: Becky, along with other ‘fast talking’ characters, will have their moments of talking too fast underlined to help make it less distracting for the duration of the story. *** Becky was happily humming a tune while dusting off the many family photos she had framed and hung throughout her apartment. The Immigration Initiative did not provide spacious homes for the initial wave of ‘Test Immigrants’. However it was just the right size for a humble old bird whose treasures were more personal than tangible. KNOCK-KNOCK The blue-colored birdy cooed upon hearing the knock at her door. Today was a very special day for her. She was getting some very special visitors. “Come in!” she said in a sing-song tweet. CA-CLICK “Hello!” greeted a yellow-coated shih tzu who had her hair tied up with jingly bells. “I present to you Mayor Yosh and Swift!” Swift, who was an elementary-aged penguin boy, hid himself behind Isabelle as Yosh, a hybrid of both dragon and duck, walked forward with a smile on his beak and extended his hand. “Pleased to meet you,” he greeted. “It is a pleasure to meet one of the first new immigrants into Equestria.” Becky was a little confused by how Yosh was standing too far away for her to comfortably shake his hand. She also noticed how he didn’t look much older than Swift. How could he be the mayor of a town?” “Three steps, Mr. Mayor,” stated the green vest and skirt wearing canine. Yosh moved closer to Becky and extended his hand. “Sorry,” he blushed. “As you can tell, I can’t see.” The black-spotted grandma bird adjusted her glasses again. She then took a good look at Yosh and how his eyes were an icy-blue color. “Pleased to meet you,” she greeted nervously while shaking the dragon-duck’s hand. “Don’t worry,” Yosh replied. “I tell ‘blind jokes’ and do not mind if you want to ask any questions during our stay.” “You got this, Swift,” encouraged the buck-toothed doggy. “I hear she makes really yummy cookies.” The young penguin looked down to his feet while proceeding into the apartment. “Ah!” beamed Becky. “You must be Swift! I hear you may need a fun and safe place to stay between classes while your parents are at work.” “Yes mam,” he replied shyly as he clasped his flippers and continued to stare at the carpeted floor. “I have some official business to take care of,” the dog stated. “You birdies have fun!” Yosh turned and waved towards the door. “Thanks, Isabelle!” he called. “I’m sure we’re all going to have a most wonderful time!” CA-THUNK Becky now had two new friends to talk to. One was blind and outgoing while the other was quite bashful. She also knew the penguin, Swift, was ten years old while the dragon-duck appeared like an overgrown toddler. “Well,” she said merrily. “How’s about I give both my special guests a taste of my Budgin Coconut Brownies!” “Sounds yummy!” replied Yosh as he appeared to be scanning the room. “Yes, mam,” was all Swift could muster. The young penguin still getting more a look at the clean carpet than having yet given Becky direct eye contact. “Alright!” she flapped happily. “Let the fun begin!” End – Part 1
Chapter 2 - Meet Becky, Swift, And YoshIt had been quite awhile since Becky had ‘little ones’ in her nest. She was still trying to understand how the beaked dragon was able to run a town. Someone like him looked more fit for Primary School over overseeing a town. Though she knew to mind her manners and decided to let the visit help her understand the dragon-duck through their interactions. On the other hand, swift was the prime example of a Primary School kid. He was shy, nervous, and staying safe in Becky’s presence through calling her ‘mam’. It was a show of respect, likely taught to him by his parents, but she needed to get him to be more focused on having fun over counting the fibers in her carpet. “Oh!” cooed the blue-colored Budgin bird. “You both brought backpacks with you? Perhaps there are games you would like to play?” The dragon-duck, Yosh, blushed. “I brought snacks, a tablet, crayons, and a pencil to draw pictures,” stated Swift. Becky smiled. Ooh!” she chirped with enthusiasm. “My refrigerator could really use some art on it. Perhaps you two can draw some pictures for me at the kitchen table while I bake my Budgin Brownies?” Yosh gulped. “Would it be alright if I talked with you while you baked?” he asked nervously. “Canine Crossroads, which is the town I help run with Isabelle, is interested in bringing in some new immigrants to enrich our recently built Medical Center & University.” Becky thought for a moment and realized she had made a little faux pas in suggesting that the dragon-duck should draw a picture. Not that a blind creature could not do art, but it is probably not the best thing to suggest to someone without sight when meeting them for the first time. “Do pardon me,” she said nervously. “I-” “-No worries, Ms. Becky,” Yosh interjected. “I’ve had a lot of help from Spike, Princess Luna, Doodle Noodle, and Isabelle to not get so upset over having lost my eyesight.” Swift waddled closer and waved his hand-like flipper in front of Yosh’s face. Yosh smiled. “I know that is you, Swift,” he giggled. “I’m getting better at identifying how close I am to things along with what creatures I come to meet in my travels.” Becky was nervous over the young penguin’s sudden burst of curiosity. However it was good to see Swift paying more attention to something beyond the quality of her living room carpet. “My grandparents don’t see too good,” stated the curious penguin. “Sometimes I help them to not waddle into things in their igloo apartment.” Yosh reached for Swift and managed to successfully put his hand on the young penguin’s shoulder. “We all need help sometimes,” he stated. “I normally prefer creatures asking me if I need help before they just take hold of me and move me about as if I’m a lost hatchling.” Becky felt her cheerfulness return. Her two guests were getting along and she was getting to know both of them by seeing them just talking about each other’s adventures. It was almost enough to bring a tear to the elderly bird as she felt memories of her chicks, their friends, and her grand chicks while she and her husband delighted in the pitter-patter of little feet upon their treehouse nest. “…What’s that?” Swift asked as Becky found herself paying attention to the duo’s discussion. Yosh was holding a staff-like stick that had a magnifying lens of sorts positioned on top of it. “This?” he said while tossing the staff from one hand to the other. “This is my ‘Sight Stick’.” Swift looked closely at the lens-like orb at the top of the staff. “It doesn’t look like a magnifying glass?” he questioned. “Looks more like one of the ‘Snow Globe Playgrounds’ back from where I am from. Yosh held the staff up and towards the curious penguin and pressed on a button that was not seen in Swift’s initial inspection. CLICK SNAP “There is a penguin that stands about four feet tall approximately one foot away from you.” a voice stated. “Five feet away is a Budgin who stands about two feet taller than you.” “wow!” clapped Swift. “Are you seeing this, Mam?? He has a magical talking stick!” Becky felt a warm and happy chuckle that she had not felt since her children and grandchildren had grown up. Swift was getting excited over the tool Yosh used and the dragon-duck, who still seemed like a toddler, was delighting in doing some ‘Show And Tell’ with the curious penguin. “Can I try it?” asked Swift. “I’m sure there has got to be some really cool bugs and other small things I could find with such a cool magnifying glass!” Becky shuddered at the thought she would ever allow insects to be anywhere in her home outside of her pantry. Though it did give her a better look at what Swift was interested in. Perhaps he wasn’t looking at the floor out of shyness as much as to distract himself by finding something to get his mind to not feel so bashful about meeting her for the first time? “Sorry, Swift,” Yosh sighed. “In the wrong hands, my ‘Sight Stick’ could be used to do some not so kind things. To prevent this, Princess Celestia, Luna, and Twilight all put a spell on it that will only allow it to be used by me, or Isabelle.” Swift lowered his flippers and pouted. “Oh,” he said before perking back up. “How about, if I find something neat, I tell you and you use the magic stick to see it, too, and we both learn new things and stuff?” Yosh grinned. “A swell idea,” he replied before looking towards where he felt Becky was still standing. “However I do think we should first take our wonderful host up on those brownies.” Becky knelt before Swift. “Would you like to help me make them?” she asked. Feeling less timid from seeing Yosh’s ‘sight Stick’ coupled with the elder Budgin kneeling to properly face him, Swift felt far more comfortable in taking in the beak, eyes, and other facial features of Becky he had really not allowed himself to look at earlier. “As long as I don’t get burned,” he said with a bit of concern. “Mommy and daddy don’t want me getting near the stoves and ovens that ponies have. They say I could really hurt my flippers and the heat from one of those burner things is enough to make me have to go to the hospital.” Becky put a wing upon Swift’s shoulder. “Don’t you worry,” she said in a very maternal voice. “I’ll take care of the oven while you help me mix and stir the ingredients at the table.” Swift nodded. FWUMP PAP-PAP Yosh extended out his ‘Sight Stick’ and listened for where the small living room opened up to another part of the apartment. “Is the table this way?” he asked while pointing very closely to the kitchen table.” “Golly!” chirped Becky. “Are you sure you can’t see at all?” Yosh blushed as a smile grew upon his beak. “I use my mind’s eye,” he proudly replied. “It helps me find what my non-working eyes can’t see.” *** As the trio got settled into the kitchen, Becky had started to make some observations of her own. The most notable is that Yosh, the mayor of Canine Crossroads, appeared to have a ‘diaper butt’. She also swore she heard a slight rustling sound as the dragon-duck took to the chair opposite of Swift. “Do you have any other nifty gadgets and gizmos?” asked Swift. “Perhaps anything you wouldn’t mind letting me have so I can do some more exploring? Canterlot has lots of cool bugs, rocks, and other stuff I just got to see and learn about.” Becky was going to lightly scold Swift for asking Yosh for stuff. However there was no need as the dragon-duck simply said he had left his older visual aids back at Canine Crossroads. “Here you go, Swift,” she cooed while placing a mixing bowl in front of the penguin. “I’ll let you lick the spoon if you promise not to make a mess.” “Oh, boy!” the little penguin cheered. “I promise to not make a mess.” Yosh blushed and shifted in his chair. “Everything alright, sweetie?” asked Becky. Being in ‘mommy mode’ for so long made her quite familiar with spotting even the slightest of movements, facial expressions, and other childlike behavior. The dragon-duck broke out in a cold sweat as he shuffled in the chair. “Might I ask to use your bathroom?” he asked as calmly as he could. The blue Budgin was prepping to walk Yosh to the bathroom when she remembered that he wasn’t a toddler. “It’s actually in the room right behind you,” she stated while gesturing her wing towards a closed wooden door. “You should be able to find it easy once you walk in the direction that is behind your chair and use that special stick to give the door a knock.” Yosh grimaced and groaned as he shuffled out of the chair, held out his stick, and waddled with a spread gate towards the door. He used the tip of the stick’s bottom to determine where the door itself was in comparison to the rest of the wall, desperately reached for the doorknob, found the knob, and let out a bit of a grunt as he quickly made his way into the bathroom. “I think he pooped his pants,” Swift said softly. “Grown-ups don’t go potty in their pants, right?” Becky was at a loss for words. However she did remember the bag Yosh had brought in and how it was back in the living room. “Just a moment, sweetie,” she said to Swift as she retrieved the backpack and proceeded towards the bathroom door. KNOCK KNOCK “I don’t want to invade your privacy,” she stated while hearing Yosh’s stick hit upon the other side of the door. “Though my stuff is a bit everywhere in there and I thought you may have something special for cleaning up in your backpack.” CA-REEK Yosh’s hand reached out for the bag, Becky handed it to him, and he quickly retreated back into the unlit bathroom. Swift was curious as to what was going on. However, being a wise and caring old Budgin, Becky quickly redirected the young penguin’s attention back to the task of making coconut brownies with her while leaving Yosh to his business. End Of Part Two
Chapter 3 - Cultural ExchangeBecky had a wide smile across her beak as she gathered all the ingredients and tools for Swift to make her Budgin Coconut Brownies. So many wonderful memories filled her mind and, perhaps for the first time since moving to Canterlot, she started to see a happy future with the ponies and her fellow immigrants. “Do you have any fish?” the little penguin asked. “I should probably be having some lunch before I just eat brownies.” The blue, black-spotted elder adjusted her glasses while trying to think on how to answer. “Well,” she said. “Where I am from, we mostly eat fruits, bugs, and nuts.” “That’s okay,” Swift replied while scooting out of his chair and heading into the tiny living room area. “My parents packed me a pouch of Tasty Tuna in case I got hungry.” Becky thought for a moment. “What is it like where you come from?” she asked with genuine curiosity. The young penguin got out his vacuum-sealed lunch and opened it. “It’s really cool!” he chirped. “Both in the temperature and fun way!” Becky grabbed a napkin and a plate and sat it at a different spot on the table. “Really?” she continued to ask. “What is the most fun thing you do back from where you are from?” Swift hopped into the seat and emptied his tuna onto the plate. “Belly sledding!” he beamed with joy. “There is a big slope near our home back home that makes you go super fast and then gets you out into the open water!” “Ooh!” Becky said while imagining such a form of entertainment. “Reminds me of the water parks we have back from where I am from.” “What’s a water park?” the young penguin asked while eating at his tuna. Becky went to the fridge for some lemonade she had prepared earlier. “There is no snow where I come from,” she replied. “So, for fun in the water, we built large bathing areas where we can all privately, or publicly, groom ourselves. These places often have special pools with slides and planks for Budgin of all ages to play about in fresh water instead of the salty waters of the ocean.” “Fresh water?” wondered Swift. “Is it that water that tastes and feels funny in the bathroom?” Becky delighted in the young penguin’s curiosity while placing a wooden cup of lemonade in front of him to drink. “That would be it,” she replied. “It is water without the salt. Though, now that I think about it, I think the ponies put other things in the water to make it ‘cleaner’?” “Cleaner?” wondered the little penguin as he finished his tuna and went for the lemonade. “Water is clean where I am from. Water doesn’t need anything to make it ‘better’.” “Perhaps,” added the apron-wearing elder bird. “You and I can take a trip around Canterlot to learn more about what the ponies do with their water? I know you’ve made me curious to find out.” Swift flapped his flippers at his sides as he giggled merrily. “Kind of like a field trip?” he asked. “I love getting to go to fun places and learn new things!” Becky allowed herself a jovial guffaw as she placed a wing on the young penguin’s shoulder. “We can do all that when you come over to my place while we wait for your parents to get off of work,” she stated. “It will be a great way to pass the time.” PUNP-PUNP CA-CLICK “Sorry about that,” Yosh said as he used his ‘Sight Stick’ to get back to his chair. “How is everything?” Becky poured a glass of lemonade and put it in front of the dragon-duck. “Swift and I were just talking about where we came from,” she replied while gently using her wing on the wooden cup to help the blind dragon-duck safely take hold of it. “I understand you are not quite sure where you are from and have traveled to many places.” Swift finished his tuna, slipped out of his chair, and returned to where all the baking supplies were. “Well,” pondered Yosh while tapping a finger to his bill. “What I have talked about with Doodle Noodle has gotten me to think of how I’ve lived in two places with each one being a life of its own.” The young penguin was confused, but quickly distracted as Becky brought out her recipe book and started helping him mix the ingredients. “I think I understand,” she replied. “Kind of like moving to Canterlot was the start of a new life for me.” Yosh’s head moved about as if he was trying to find something. “Yeah,” he stated upon attempting to look to where he had heard Becky’s voice. “Everything is brand new and wonderful to discover.” “Who’s Doodle Noodle?” inquired Swift as he started to stir a mixture of cocoa, coconut, and milk that had been properly measured and placed into the mixing bowl. “Sounds like what we call squids.” Yosh and Becky both laughed. “Doodle Noodle is a pony,” Yosh answered. “She used to see me almost daily to help me be okay with losing my eyesight.” “But you have eyes?” continued swift while the elder Budgin put a little pat of butter into the mixture. “You see with eyes and you have two that, being weird, are still eyes.” Becky was going to say something, but noticed that Yosh was smiling. “It’s hard to explain,” the green-and-white colored dragon-duck stated while nervously stroking his upper-most head spike. “My eyes being the color of snow and ice are a way that they let others know I can’t see anything with them. They are broken beyond repair.” It was Swift’s turn to make some fun, facial gestures as he thought on what he was just told. “Ice isn’t blue,” he replied as he mixed the batter that Becky had added small amounts of sugar, cinnamon, and salt to. “Ice is white like my tummy.” Yosh blushed. “Good point,” he said with a little giggle. “I may need my friend, Isabelle, to help better explain.” “The yellow doggy?” asked Swift. “She has funny teeth.” Becky placed a wing gently upon Swift’s shoulder. “Perhaps Yosh can tell us about Canine Crossroads?” she suggested. Yosh’s stubby tail wiggled as he placed his hands upon the table. “That I can tell you about,” he said. “It’s about a day’s train ride away from here and part of The Nook Nation.” “Nook Nation?” wondered Becky while grabbing a cookie sheet and using some butter to prep it for the brownies Swift was going to make. “That’s a most interesting name.” “It is,” Yosh replied while drumming his fingers on the table and sliding about on his seat. “It is a region of land owned by a raccoon by the name of Tom Nook. He’s the eighth Nook to oversee the country. Though, as I have come to learn, he is primarily concerned in money. He only comes to Canine Crossroads to ask us what we may need from the national stockpile, give us prices for building things, and to collect tax for the space our town takes up within his family’s country.” What kind of money do you use?” asked Becky. “Our archipelago uses ‘Biddles’. However the biddle is not usually used as our people primarily focus in trading resources and services for what we need.” “We use ‘Pebbles’,” stated Swift as he started to use his flippers to make balls from the mixture to put on the cookie sheet. “They are hard to find and only spent if you could not get what you needed by yourself from the glacier, or ocean.” “We use ‘Bells’,” stated Yosh. “Bells are oak leaves that have been covered with different amounts of silver and gold to show their value.” “Ah!” Becky chirped. “Kind of like how Equestrians have the ‘Bit’? Most exchanges are done with bits, to my knowledge.” “Kind of,” stated Yosh as he shuffled in his chair. This time Becky took notice of the rustling sound that accompanied the dragon-duck’s movements. Swift was losing interest in talking about money. So, not wanting to draw unnecessary attention to her guest, Becky changed the subject. “Perhaps I can come visit your town?” she suggested while helping the little penguin arrange all the unbaked brownies on the cookie sheet. “Ooh!” clapped Swift. “Could that be one of our field trips, too, Ms. Becky?” The elder Budgin felt so many wonderful emotions with Swift having taken to her. She was very worried at the start, but it would seem he was going to be just like her grandchildren. It was nice to feel needed as well as wanted. “Well,” she chuckled while patting the penguin on his head. “I think your mommy and daddy will need to be a part of that long of a trip.” It was Swift’s turn to wiggle about merrily in his seat. “I’ll ask!” he cheered. “You are such fun, Ms. Becky! You’re almost as good as the ‘Big Daddy’ at ‘Hatchling Care’!” “Thank you, Swift,” she complimented while putting the uncooked brownies into the oven and setting a timer for thirty minutes. “How about we clean off the table and play a game while we wait for our brownies to finish?” “Ooh!” wiggled Swift. “Can I use your bathroom before we play?” “Sure thing,” she assured while gesturing to the door that Yosh had been directed to. “Don’t forget to wash your hands.” Swift made his way into the bathroom and shut the door while Becky realized there may be a problem. However Yosh appeared unconcerned as they shared more words while their young friend attended to his business. End Of Part 3
Chapter 4 - Union Of Nations & New BeginningsThere was an awkward pause after Swift entered into Becky’s apartment bathroom and audibly clicked the lock into place. “Sorry,” the dragon-duck stated nervously. “Though I assure you I left no mess in your bathroom.” Becky lifted a wing to her beak as she tried to process what she had just heard. “Birth condition,” continued Yosh. “Almost had it managed, thanks to Isabelle, until I got involved in one of those ‘Save The World’ situations.” “Oh…,” the elder Budgin awed with both interest and confusion. “It’s a long story,” the dragon-duck replied while shuffling himself to close the distance between the table and himself. “I’m sure everyone at the archipelago is used to such events happening, too.” “Now that you mention it,” said Becky while tapping her feathery-fingers upon her beak. “My homeland does have a number of myths and legends on Budgin who fought off monsters and overcoming impossible odds.” Yosh flashed a smile as he faced straight at where he heard Becky’s voice coming from. “I’d love to hear some of those stories,” he chirped while pointing a finger to the center of his forehead. “My physical eyes may not work, but my mind’s eye is clear as the day I hatched.” CA-CLICK FWOO KA-KLOK “Did I hear something about stories?” cheered a very enthusiastic Swift. “Can we hear some of your stories?” Becky hesitated for a moment as her initial concern was that the young penguin may have forgotten to wash his hands. Though the scent of her lava-rock soap made her know that the responsible youngster had washed his flippers and his face. “Well,” she considered. “Would you prefer a story to playing a game?” Yosh looked to where he heard Swift take his seat. “Please?” pleaded the young penguin with the most adorable puppy dog eyes the Budgin had ever seen in years. The blue and black-spotted bird looked to see there was still about twenty-five minutes left on the timer for the brownies. This was more than enough time to tell a story, or two. “Oh, you guys talked me into it,” she sang while getting the lemonade back out of the refrigerator. “Anyone for a refill of juice before I start?” *** Becky had time for two stories before the brownies were done. She then had time for another while the baked treats cooled enough to be safely eaten. Not too long after did Isabelle return from what she had gone to talk about with Princess Twilight Sparkle about. “I assume all was well, Mr. Mayor?” the buck-toothed, yellow shih-tzu inquired towards Yosh. “It was a wonderful time,” he replied while making his way to Isabelle and taking hold of her hand. “I look forward to when you are either able to come to Canine Crossroads, or you may treat us to seeing the archipelago, Ms. Becky.” “You’re welcome,” she blushed from all the compliments and fun she had up to this point in her day. “And you are most welcome.” “Do I have to leave now, too?” pouted Swift. “I want to hear more stories and play a game!” Yosh, Isabelle, and Becky all laughed. “Nope,” stated the elder Budgin. “You’re stuck with me until your parents get off of work.” Swift clapped his flippers together and then drummed upon the table with excitement. “Are you visiting any other immigrants, uh, Mayor Yosh?” Becky inquired. “Not today,” the dragon-duck replied. “Isabelle and I have a meeting with the visiting delegation from Hope Hollow.” “Hope Hollow?” wondered both Swift and Becky at almost the same time. “They, like us, are in Canterlot for the next day,” added Isabelle. “We are interested in their Rainbow Celebration and how we may be able to have a similar event in Canine Crossroads.” “The citizens of our town really like special events and we get a lot of tourists from nearby towns and islands,” Yosh continued. “However we want to encourage further visits from equestria, The Dragon Lands, and The Budgin Archipelago.” “Oh?” inquired Becky. “We do have our fair share of celebrations and cultural events that, truly, would be nice to see honored here in Equestria and beyond.” Yosh slipped on his backpack. “Would you mind if we popped in tomorrow to talk about how we could get to know and make positive relations with the Budgin?” asked Isabelle. “Sounds like a date!” chirped Becky. Isabelle tugged upon Yosh’s arm to hint that it was time to go. “Well,” the dragon-duck said. “We’ll be by at about 11:00 AM then.” “It’s a date!” the elder Budgin stated while waving her wing. *** Becky enjoyed her time with just Swift. They shared stories, played a game of cards, and shared their thoughts on Yosh and Isabelle. Yosh’s potty problems only came up long enough for Swift to apologize for having thought the dragon-duck had done anything of the sort. The bathroom was as clean as he could believe any place to do your private business could ever be. This got a discussion about how losing one ‘sense’ is really not the end of being able to enjoy life. However both did agree that they’d prefer to keep all their senses for as long as possible and knew they should not forget to see their respective doctors who practiced in The Immigration Initiative. *** Becky almost started crying when Swift teared up over having to go home with his parents. She could not believe how fond of her he had become after such a rough and nervous start. Fortunately, as tomorrow was another work day, Swift was told he’d be able to not only spend time with his new babysitter, but also that it was okay if the pair went on ‘education adventures’. And this was but the start of many warm and wonderful new memories for Becky. It was nice to feel needed, wanted, and be able to be a mother figure along with a possible ambassador between The Nook Nation and her homeland of The Budgin Archipelago.
