25: New Friends/Old Traditions
A/N: ok, one mess up in the previous chapter that I didn't notice until after I posted it - right after the bombing I had Nick talking to Judy, her brothers, Skye, Tiffany and Laverne and Shirley. Later I had Laverne on a cruise with her boyfriend/new husband at that time. I thought I deleted Laverne from the first part but obviously did not, my bad.
XxX
Early the next morning, Nick and Judy are trying to work out details concerning the renovations of the old burrow with several of Judy's siblings … and getting nowhere in a very big hurry.
Just then, one of Judy's younger siblings, a small cream colored six-year-old doe named Cotton, plopped down several paw-drawn and colored pictures.
"What's this Cotton?" asks Jolene, the same sister that inadvertently popped in on Nick and Judy during their stay after the twister hit.
"This is what Judy and uncle Nick's burrow's gonna look like!" states Cotton in a matter-of-factly and overly confident voice.
Looking at the crude paw-drawn picture, there is little doubt that this is exactly what the burrow should indeed look like.
The outside was painted grey and white, like Judy's fur, with red shingles and shutters, much like Nicks fur.
Along with the outside of the burrow, were several pictures of the inside as well. all of the rooms were either an off-white or eggshell with subtle grey and red accents.
"Why Cotton" spoke up Judy "those are just perfect, thank you!"
"Do ya really think so?" asks Cotton.
"Absolutely" agrees Nick. "You've done a masterful job. I'll bet you want to be a designer when you grow up, huh?" he adds.
"Nope" contradicts Cotton confidently "I wanna drive race cars, just like Judy did."
And with that, Cotton turns and leaves, with a roomful of adults staring after her in mild shock.
"Well, I'll be damned!" was all Jolene could say.
…
With the details for their future home pretty much set (including the added on 2 ½ stall garage, updated wiring and plumbing systems, central heat and air etc. – it's not a true burrow remember) Nick and Judy head over to the new shop site. Once there, they find Midnight and Bolo finishing an in-depth discussion with Duane.
"Ok mammals, how go the details for the shop? Got everything pretty well hammered out?" asks Nick.
"Yup" replies Duane "and Tiff's about finished with helping dad setting the boundaries for the land parcels that're already rented out."
"Really?" asks Judy. "How much has been rented so far, if I can ask?"
"Almost ninety percent of the ten thousand acres!" replies Tiffany a she enters the shop area and the conversation.
"Really? That much that quickly?" asks a thoroughly astounded Judy.
"Sure thing" says Tiff.
"With this being absolutely the best farmland in the entire Tri-Burrows area, it's hardly surprising" proudly adds Stu as he and Bonnie follow Tiffany into the shop area.
"Dad, that's wonderful!" says Judy as she hugs her dad.
Striding up to Midnight, Stu can only grab the feline in a fierce hug, with Bonnie following suit close behind.
"I don't think I can ever repay you for this" says a very emotional Stu with Bonnie nodding slightly in agreement. "But if there's ever anything you need, all you need to do is ask and it's yours."
Slightly embarrassed by the show of emotion, Midnight can only hug back gently and tell Stu "It's ok mister Hopps. It's like Nick has always said 'we're all family here, and that's what family does."
As Bonnie and Stu release a much-relieved Midnight from their hug, Nick suddenly becomes aware that he's their next target.
Surrendering to the inevitable, Nick opens his arms to his in-laws, knowing that Judy would be only seconds behind (again) and he'd be lucky to escape without cracked ribs.
"With several more mammals vying for what's left to rent, I think that we'll have everything ready to finished by the end of the day tomorrow" adds Tiffany.
With the day drawing to a close, there isn't much left to accomplish, so everyone heads for the main burrow.
"So, everything figured out for the new place?" Bolo asks.
"Yea" replies Judy "The same beaver outfit that came and did the rebuild for the barns and outbuildings after the twister hit are gonna do the renovations and upgrades. They have more time so they're not gonna charge as much as they could've, especially since dad, Duane and Tiff gave them the contract for the shop conversions as well."
"That's great to hear!" says Midnight. "So, I guess you'll be heading back to Zootopia and then to the reservation tomorrow?"
"Yea, if you guys are about finished, we'll meet you back there and restock the van for the trip" answers Nick. 'Bring anyone and everyone that you think you'll need and get the shop together and everything moved and set up as soon as you can. I want everything up and ready to go as soon as we get back from the reservation."
"We'll do the best we can boss."
"Of that I have no doubt" says Nick.
Finishing up the leftovers from the previous night's supper, the entire Zootopia gang retires to the main burrow living area to discuss the next days trip and perpetrations for the trip to the reservation.
"First off" begins Judy "I guess we need to call Yvonne and Michael and let them know that we're gonna be heading their way sometime tomorrow or the next day, right?"
"Seems like the right thing to do"
Dialing Yvonne's number, Judy is a bit surprised when the call goes straight to voicemail.
"Umm, Yvonne, this is Judy Wilde. We plan to head your way the day after tomorrow, unless something comes up. Please call me as soon as you can to confirm that you'll be expecting us. Bye."
"Well, that was a bit weird" intoned Judy, with the entire room full of mammals nodding in agreement.
"We'll still head back tomorrow and get everything ready just like we planned" says Nick. "We can just wait to leave until she calls us back, there's no sense in leaving until we know that they'll be expecting us."
"Well, it's off to bed for us" says Judy in a sultry tone while grabbing Nick's tie and heading into the burrow towards her old room. "If we're gonna get an early start in the morning, we'll need to get an early start tonight….."
…
Up early and with a good warm breakfast behind them, Nick and Judy head back to Zootopia.
Suggesting that Judy drive the step-side back seemed to put the doe in a really good mood. That and perhaps all of the hot and heavy 'extracurricular activities' the night before, although it was difficult to tell which, if not both had the best effect.
About forty-five minutes into the drive, Judy's phone rang.
Noticing that it was from doctor Cotton, Judy had Nick answer and put the phone on speaker.
"Hello, doctor Cotton?" Judy answers.
"Yes Judy, I got your message. I'm sorry about not answering, but the cell phone reception here on the reservation is pretty much nonexistent. There aren't any towers within about thirty miles of the rez. The closest tower is on the other side of a town called Valentine."
"That's ok, now that we understand the situation."
"So, you're planning on leaving sometime tomorrow then?"
"Yea. Nick and I are headed back to Zootopia now, while the rest will be coming back later today. I think we'll probably head out tomorrow morning around seven or so. How long will it take us to get there?"
"It's about a nine-hour trip by the time you figure in pee breaks, gas stops and such. Be sure you fill up the car or whatever you'll be driving, while going through a town called Oelrichs or maybe Valentine or even Chadron. It depends on which you choose. There aren't any stations on the reservation, so if you forget, you'll be in a world of hurt."
Seeing Nick nod, Judy acknowledges the suggestion "I'm sure Nick will remember, as much as he dislikes walking in the heat."
"Hey!" says Nick in mock despair.
Giggling, Judy continues the conversation "Is there anything else we need to know before we leave? We plan on bringing plenty of water, but how about food?"
"Not unless you can figure out a way to bring fresh veggies, there aren't a lot of prey animals around the rez. A few but not many. The only other thing that I can think of right now is that you and the other girls need to bring something like a sun dress to wear for the Inipi. Lakota females are very modest about such things, especially with the Inipi, so you won't want to show much fur."
"And what about the males?" asks Nick.
"Shorts or trunks are fine for the males" indicates doctor Cotton.
"Ok, good to know. And there's no need to worry about our heat cycles, we're all finished with them so that won't be an issue either."
"Great .… There was something else, but I can't for the life of me remember what it is right now! Oh, well, if I think of it, I can always call or text."
"All right, if everything goes as planned, we'll see you sometime tomorrow afternoon then, Bye." says Judy, as she severs the connection.
"I guess my swimming suit is out" says Judy. "I'm sure glad that Yvonne said something, I really don't want to create a bad impression right out of the gate."
"Yea, besides, I don't need a bunch of strange preds ogling my bunny" agrees Nick.
"Quiet you" replies Judy, all the while enjoying the complement.
Arriving home, Judy and Nick quickly pack a second set of clothes for the trip to the reservation, what with the first set needing to be laundered, and a couple of sundresses substituted for her bathing suits. Almost as an afterthought, Judy texted the new requirements for Inipi wear to Skye and Tiffany as well as the for the food requirements for their bunnies, since Judy was the only bunny that could (or would) eat meat.
That accomplished, the two of them set about finding substitutes for fresh veggies that wouldn't spoil in short order that they could take on the trip. They decided that dehydrated fruits and a small supply of fresh vegetables that could be safely kept in the van's small fridge would have to do. Perhaps a trip or two to the closest town would be doable, Yvonne would be able to let them know one way or the other.
"I wonder if Yvonne turned into a carnivorous bunny like I did" thinks Judy to herself.
…
After a short nap (yes, a nap) the pair was woken-up when Midnight called to let them know that he and Bolo were back with the van. They had refueled it and checked all of the necessary fluids and taken care of other routine maintenance items for the upcoming trip and would drop it off at Nick and Judy's shortly.
Shortly thereafter, another call is received, this time from Judy's brothers and their significant others, letting Judy and Nick know that the four are all back in town as well and are getting ready for the trip.
Agreeing to meet at Nick and Judy's home for a short pre-trip planning session shortly after supper, the call was terminated.
"Well, I guess a nap or anything else" states Nick, wiggling his eyebrows "is out of the question at least for now, so let's make a quick batch of spaghetti with turkey sausage sauce. Might be the best meal we get for a while."
Rolling her eyes, Judy agrees and heads for the kitchen.
While Judy begins cooking the pasta, Nick works his magic with the sauce, making his special turkey sausage, mushroom and basil tomato sauce. Figuring they'd most likely have company about the time the would sit down to eat, enough h was prepared to feed six. Sure enough, right about the time everything was ready, the door opens and in traipse four uninvited (but totally expected) supper guests.
"I hope we're not intruding" began Skye, who was interrupted by Josh…
"I thought you said that we'd probably get here about the time supper was ready … OWW!" says Josh, giving away Skye's poorly concealed secret and suffering the consequences for it.
Giving Josh a well-deserved evil eye as well, Skye notices that there seems to be plenty for all.
"You figured we'd show up early, didn't you?" she accused.
"You forget how long and how well I know you, didn't 'ya?" Nick asks.
"OK, fine, let's eat."
As everyone settles down for a good meal, Duane comments "This is really good sauce, what's all in it?"
As Nick and Judy quickly glance at each other, Judy is horrorstruck. How could she have forgotten that her brothers would be here?
"Umm …"
"Tell the truth Fluff" was all Nick would say, with a look on his muzzle that was part smirk and part grin.
"Umm …" Judy stammered "It … it's Nick's umm ... homemade sauce, made with … turkey sausage …?"
With everyone's mouths hanging wide open for every bit of ten seconds, Tiffany is the first to speak "It's really very good Nick, what do you use for seasoning?"
"You're kidding … right?" asks Josh?
"Yeaaa, no. I'm totally serious" says a thoroughly apologetic Judy "I'm sorry guys, I never even thought about you two."
"And you actually eat this? And it doesn't bother you?" asks Duane. "I mean, it's good and all but seriously?"
"I actually accidently ate meat the first time I was at the Icehouse and it didn't kill me, so I kinda figured what the hell." admitted Judy. "I actually craved it when I was pregnant. Besides, we were told it would be good for the kits."
"That's right" admitted Skye "I remember now. You got a bit drunk that night too if I remember correctly" she said grinning.
"I wasn't drunk, I was just a bit … tipsy" argued Judy, not wanting to admit just how messed up she was that night.
"Well, I seem to remember you telling me later that-"
"Don't. You. DARE…" interrupted Judy, shooting a 'I will kill you if you say another word' look at Skye.
"Keeping secrets from our mate now are we?" asks Nick with a curious look on his muzzle, even though he remembers the events quite clearly.
"Not the time Nick …" says Judy menacingly, directing her ire at Nick "if you ask politely later, I might tell you, but for now, please … drop the subject."
"I'll hold you to that" says Nick. "Changing the subject, who's up for desert? There's a bit of blueberry cobbler and some strawberry swirl ice cream that needs to be taken care of before it goes bad…"
After finishing off all of the spaghetti (the bucks obviously didn't die from turkey sausage poisoning), cleaning out the remaining desert and taking care of the dishes, everyone retired to the living room and finalized plans for the trip to the reservation in the morning, with everyone meeting at the Wilde's at seven o'clock am.
After all of the company has left, as Nick and Judy head down the hallway towards the master bedroom, Nick asks "About that first night at the Icehouse …" he begins.
"First a shower, then I promise to tell you, ok?"
Shower complete, Judy begins to confess her carnal desires that evening, stopping partway through noticing the poorly hidden amusement on Nick's muzzle.
"What?" she asks.
"Fluff, I remember every bit of the conversation and your actions that night. That said, do you not remember how I gently turned you down that night?"
Thinking back carefully, Judy replayed the scene in her mind as best she could …
:::FLASBACK:::
After walking back from the Icehouse, the favorite watering hole for Nick's shop crew, the following conversation takes place:
"W-would you like to come in for a little while?" asked Judy in a sultry but slightly tipsy voice as the couple entered the shop.
Looking at Judy in concern Nick answered "Judy, under normal circumstances, I would love to. But right now, I think it would be better if you just got a good shower and hit the sack…'
"But I only wanted to…"
"I know, I know, but tomorrow is another day and I need you to be ready to go. No second thoughts, no regrets of where this could possibly lead too. I don't want to have our relationship ruined because we did something stupid while we weren't in our right minds. Please don't be angry, you're the best thing I've had happen to me in a very long time and I don't want to mess it up, OK? This will all work out, we both just need a little more time to get it right…."
Judy mulled Nick's reply over for a few seconds, then began to tear up "I-I'm sorry Nick, I don't know what I was thinking. A new job, a new family, a new relationship, my drinking" she sobbed "It's all so...so..."
With that she buried her muzzle in Nick's chest, hugging him tightly "Please don't hate me, please understand."
:::END OF FLASHBACK:::
Blushing lightly, Judy admits "Yea, now I recall. I don't know if I can ever thank you enough for not taking me up on my offer that night."
"Well, unless you have any objections, I think I'd like to take you up on that same offer tonight…" says Nick as he pulls his wife close, lightly grabbing her puffy tail.
Gasping slightly at the intimate action "Why, mister Wilde, are you proposit-" was all Judy could get out as Nick kisses her soundly, picks her up and carries her to the bedroom.
…
By the time Josh, Duane, Skye and Tiffany get to Nick and Judy's the next morning, everyone was ready to get on the road at last.
After double checking her brothers and being satisfied that nothing major had been left behind, Judy gave Nick the nod to head out.
The journey to the reservation passed with no real issues other than too many mammals in too small a space for too long. With three bunnies and three foxes in close proximity for just over nine hours, even counting three pee breaks and stopping twice for gas, mammals were starting to get on each other's nerves.
By the time they filled up with gas in Chadron and got the last of the restroom breaks out of the way, spirits were in a much better condition knowing that the ride was almost over.
"I asked the guy at the counter how much farther to the village of Pines Ridge and he told me that it's only about a half hour or so up this road on our left."
As the six mammals travel less than a mile, they pass a sign that leaves them stunned:
ENTERING PINES RIDGE INDIGINOUS RESERVATION:
ALL LAWS ENFORCED BY TRIBAL POLICE.
As everyone glances back and forth, Nick takes a deep breath and presses on towards the town/village of Pines Ridge.
Upon entering the city limits, the first thing that they all notice is that the documentary was spot on about the conditions on the reservation.
With few exceptions, run-down and ramshackle buildings, as well as hulks of cars, pick-ups and vans dot the scenery. Near naked children stop their games in neglected yards and stare at the newcomers as they drive by.
Another thing that the canines notice immediately is the smell. While difficult for most to detect, especially bunnies, wasn't the decay of the buildings, which was evident to all, it was the smell of hopelessness.
"Yvonne was right" muttered Skye, only seconds ahead of Nick. "Hopelessness and despair. It's so prevalent it actually has a smell."
"It actually is worse than Happy Town" says Nick sadly. "I would never in a thousand years have though anyplace could be worse, but I would've been wrong."
Trying not to stare at the desolate surroundings was extremely difficult, but everyone had been warned beforehand, so they concentrated on trying to find Yvonne and her husband and father-in-law before resorting to stopping and asking.
As in all small towns in the area, the gossip hotline was much more effective than any phone line (especially when cell service was lacking).
Following an aged, almost illegible, sign pointing towards the town hospital, Nick was relieved to see both doctor Cotton and Michael standing in front of what must pass as the hospital/clinic.
"Welcome to Pines Ridge" greeted Michael "you are already the talk of the village."
Seeing the looks of consternation on everyone's muzzles, Yvonne sought to put them a bit more at ease.
"Don't worry too much about the locals, they already knew you were coming, they're just curious about you is all. Please, come inside and meet Michaels father."
Stepping inside the fairly well-kept building, the newcomers immediately noticed the elderly grey wolf that must be Kicking Bird, Michael's father.
"Hau kola" began Kicking Bird as he greeted his guests. (how- koh – lah)
Smiling as he stepped forward Kicking Bird translated his greeting "In the Lakota tongue this means 'Hello Friend" he explains.
Relieved that they wouldn't be tasked to do a hasty job of needing to learn the native tongue on short notice, all greeted the elder with a heartfelt hello.
"Allow me to instruct you in a few of the local customs" began Michael.
"Upon greeting, the males usually do a pawshake similar to this" Michael explains, taking Nick's forearm in his paw, which Nick immediately returns.
"For the females, the typical greeting is merely a polite nod of the head. This is done so as to show respect to the female without undue touching, especially if you are not sure if the female is married or not. You will notice that there are no wedding bands or such here on the rez. Mammals just know who is married and who is not. It may seem a bit different to you, but with everyone knowing everyone, that's just the way it is here."
Looking at the vixens and bucks, Michael imparts a bit of advice "With you being engaged but not married, you may want to scent mark each other, so there is no misunderstanding among the locals about the females being single or taken."
"That's perfectly alright" commented Judy we totally understand, and it seems perfectly logical the way you explain it."
Noticing that Yvonne has her paw on her hip, resting on a knife, Judy has to comment.
"Yvonne" she begins "I can't help but notice that you're wearing a knife. Is there a special reason for that?"
Jaw dropping for an instant, Yvonne does a quick facepawlm "THAT'S what I forgot! DA-" Quickly eyeing the guests and then Kicking Bird, Yvonne quickly apologizes "Forgive me MITUNKASILA." (pronounced mee-duen-kah-shee-lah-kee)
Explaining her sudden apology, Yvonne informs those present "Cursing is generally looked down upon here. It sets a bad example for the children. It's especially forbidden for females, as it's unseemly. Mitunkasila means 'my grandfather' by the way."
Seeing the inquisitive looks coming from the six Zootopians, Michael is quick to explain Yvonne's outburst: "Along with everything else here in the Badlands, especially on the reservation, we have to continually deal with small packs of raiding ferals from time to time, so everyone is armed with a knife."
"Ferals, you mean like savage mammals?" asks Tiffany.
"No. Ferals." says Michael "There is a large difference. By your standards, the savage mammals you refer to would attack without any thought process, mindless so to speak. The feral mammals out here are, simply put, wild animals who have rejected the Great Compromise. They will hunt down, kill and eat any mammal that they can. Although you may not have seen them, most of the tribal members here from the time they are of an age to understand why, carry a knife or other weapon of some form or fashion and are trained to use them effectively."
"Unfortunately," interrupts Kicking Bird "my son is correct."
"Sees Far" says Kicking Bird "please take our guests to Wind In His Fur and get some protection for them. It would not do to have them go unprotected while they are here."
"As you wish, father" returns Michael as he and Yvonne leave, guests in tow.
"We much prefer to address each other by our given names rather that the ones demanded by 'civilized' society" continues Kicking bird, noting the curious looks being sent his way. "It is a way of connecting with the old ways and retaining our individual spirits."
"Please, follow me" begins Michael "I apologize in advance on behalf of Wind In His Fur. He is no doubt unprepared to have knives small enough for the likes of guests as small as the three of you" indicating Judy and her brothers.
"I realize that most if not all of you were never trained in the use of knives as a defensive weapon" continues Michael "still, something is much better than nothing. Guns of any sort are still not allowed on the reservation unless you are trained and certified police officers."
While Josh, Duane and Tiffany cast doubtful looks at each other, Nick and Skye and particularly Judy looked non-plussed.
"Why am I not surprised that the three of you are a bit less fearful than the rest?" intones Yvonne.
"I guess that growing up in Happy Town has a lot to do with it." answers Nick. "There were many times Skye and I had to use our wits, claws and fangs to fight our way out of tight spots."
"Here we are" says Michael as he guides his guests to a well-kept shed behind an average looking home.
"CIYE (chee–yea), are you busy?" Michael asks by way of a greeting.
"Hau MISU" (mee–suen) returns Wind In His Fur.
Grinning at the newcomers, who are still trying to come to grips with the language, Michael continues.
"I greeted Wind In His Fur as I would an older brother" explains Michael. Ciye roughly means older brother."
"And Misu is younger brother I take it?" assumes Nick.
"Correct, very good. You are a quick learner I see." returns Wind In His Fur.
"What can I do for you today, my brother?" asks Wind.
"Stands With A Fist and I have guests from the city, and we neglected to inform them to bring some protection. Father would have you provide something suitable for their sizes if there is anything available."
Sizing up the visitors for a few moments, Wind leaves the shop proper and returns a while later with a pawful of varying sized knives.
Handing smallish knives with staghorn handles and accompanying sheaths to Judy's brothers, and larger ones to each of the three foxes, Wind makes a brief apology "I am deeply sorry, but the only thing I have available for you two were made for pups, and the reason I took so long returning was because I needed to sharpen them. First knives are never sharp until the young ones learn how to handle and care for them, then they are sharpened."
"These are beautiful" comments Duane "thank you."
Handing Judy a knife that's totally different from the rest, Wind explains "This was made for a grandchild of a friend. The child was unfortunately taken by feral raiders before it was completed."
Noting Judy's obvious reluctance to accept the blade, Wind continues "The reason that I wish you to have this blade is that can I feel it call to you. Please, hold the blade and try to feel the energy in it! If you feel nothing, you won't need to accept it and I will find another for you."
Accepting the knife, Judy marvels at the lightweight, but also feels … something else. Almost like energy flowing through the handle into her hand. It feels comfortable, like he's had it all of her life.
"I-I do feel something. Something that I can't explain. Thank you, I accept the knife. But-"
"You are sad that you'll have to return it?" Wind asks.
"Yes" admits Judy sadly.
Smiling, Wind informs Judy, as well as the rest of the Zootopia bunch "These are gifted to you. You are not required to return them. Since you are not familiar with our customs, I will inform you that it is very insulting to return an item that is gifted, especially if it is gifted in a good way."
Admiring the knifes design, Judy has to ask "Why is this so different from the rest? What is it made from?" marveling at its unusual composition.
"This isn't metal" she observes "what is it?"
"It's called obsidian" Wind informs Judy. "It is volcanic glass that's been knapped, that is to say chipped, until the desired form and sharpness are attained. And it's very sharp by the way. Those are seldom if ever given to children because they cannot really be made to be dull and they will break if you drop them on something hard. The reason that the handle is wrapped in leather cord is because the obsidian cannot be drilled, so it must be wrapped. The loop is to wrap around your wrist so that you do not lose it if you fall or lose your balance during a fight."
"Thank you so much, I'll cherish it forever."
"I have a question" states Skye "Did you make the sheaths? And who did the beautiful beadwork?"
Turning his attention to the vixen "The sheaths are generally made by various children in the village. Before the knives are sharpened, I give them to a few of the juveniles and they work on the sheaths. It gives them something constructive to do. The bead work is done by younger ones once the sheaths are finished. The sheath for the obsidian blade was, of course, made by me. If you wish, I'm sure that Sees Far and Stands With A Fist will introduce you to some of the young ones who do the work."
"That would be wonderful" admitted Tiffany "Thank you!"
"We will be going now, thank you CIYE." says Michael.
Merely giving his adoptive brother a pawshake, Wind returns to his work.
…
Returning to the clinic, Michael's father is curious to see how the newcomers fared.
"So" asks Kicking Bird addressing Nick and Skye "it seems that you two are no strangers to at least some sort of situation that you may face here! You seem comfortable carrying a blade. And what of you little miss, why do you not seem as afraid as the others?"
"Actually" returns Judy confidently "I've undergone a lot of martial arts training while studying to become a police officer in my youth. While it was never quite life or death as it might be here, at least I've had some paw to paw and self-defense training using a knife. Not to mention the fact that I am actually married to a fox" indicating Nick. "Plus, I always carry this" pulling out and opening her folding karambit, for Kicking Bird to see.
"May I?" Kicking Bird asks politely, indicating his wish to examine the unusual blade.
"Certainly" admits Judy. Following properetiquette, she closes the knife before handing it to the elder.
Cautiously observing the closed knife, the hilt of which is curved with a hole in the pommel, Kicking Bird slowly opens the karambit and notes the design of the blade itself.
"Curious" begins Kicking Bird "It seems shaped much as a cat's claw would be."
"Yes" admitted Judy "it is modeled after a cat's claw and will totally fu- umm, mess up any mammal that it comes into contact with. Apologies grandfather."
Giving Judy a gentle smile, the elder closes the knife and returns it to Judy.
"You are quite the fast learner young one" he admits "Even though you have a weapon of your own, please accept the gift was offered to each of you."
When a sudden low rumbling was noticed, all eyes turned towards Nick.
"What? I haven't really had anything to eat since breakfast like, three days ago" he complained.
"Sees Far, please take our guests to Black Shawl, she will feed them" says an amused Kicking Bird "we cannot have anyone dying from hunger while they are here."
"Yes father" was all Michael could say while rolling his eyes.
Exiting the clinic, Michael and Yvonne led their guests across the unkempt yard to a home in very good repair (at least compared to most of those in the immediate area).
Noticing a quizzical look that Nick was giving her, Judy asks "What?"
"Later Fluff, ok?"
"Black Shawl is my mother" explains Michael as the group makes the short trek to his parent's home.
"Mother" begins Michael as they all enter the home "We have guests. Father has requested that they be fed so they do not die of hunger"
Peering around the corner of the kitchen door, an elderly she-wolf looks only mildly surprised at the sudden appearance of so many mammals.
"Oh, my" says Black Shawl upon seeing three bunnies "Michael never told me that there would be prey mammals coming. I'm afraid that I only have a little lettuce for them."
"Uhhh … sorry? I'm afraid it slipped my mind, I'll-" began Michael.
"Not to worry, umm … Grandmother" says Judy tentatively taking the lead and letting Michael off the hook "we've all eaten meat at some point in time, so whatever you have will be fine."
Blinking at the revelation and only taken slightly by surprise, Black Shawl could only answer "Well then, tacos it is. Sees Far, please set the table and seat our guests."
"Yes mother."
"Tacos?' asks Duane.
Smiling, Michael answers "Yes, indigenous tacos. Probably unlike anything you've ever had before. It's actually a treat. Do you remember me telling you about the commodities that our ancestors would receive from the government?"
Seeing everyone nod the affirmative, Michael continued "Well, the flour, yeast salt and other ingredients were mixed together and cooked in shortening. They soon became a staple in place of actual bread. It's referred to as indigenous bread or frybread. Top that with ground meat, usually turkey, lettuce, cheese and whatever else is handy, we have indigenous tacos."
"It smells heavenly" comments Nick.
"Please help with place the food on the table" says Black Shawl to Michael.
As the food is brought out and placed in groups on the table, Black Shawl asks Michael to say a prayer.
Holding out both paws, the guests quickly all join paws so that all mammals are linked in a circle.
"Wakan Tanka, please look down on those assembled here to accept your gifts. Look after them and keep them safe, as you protect all of those who live on the sacred lands. Aho!"
"Aho" join Black Shawl and Yvonne.
"Aho is like saying amen" explains Yvonne.
"So much to know, so much to learn!" say Judy and Skye in unison.
"You seem to choose your friends well, Stands With A Fist" comments Black Shawl with an obvious show of approval.
"I do try, grandmother" Yvonne answers "They have the same interests in their hearts as Michael and I do, so it was an easy choice."
"So" Black Shawl asks "all of your guests are married?"
"No, only Nick and Judy. The rest are engaged."
"Umm male to female, not-" Skye tried to explain.
"Well, this does present a bit of a problem…" Black Shawl comments. "I apologize, I was under the mistaken impression that all were married. Now different sleeping arrangements must be made."
"Only married couples may share the same bed" explains Michael.
"While Nick and Judy may share the same room, the rest will need to sleep separately. Males in one room or building and females in another" remarks Black Shawl "And you may not visit each other at night. I am truly sorry that is how it must be."
"While inconvenient, we understand" reply Tiffany and Skye.
"We can always sleep in the van" suggests Josh.
"No, that is NOT gonna happen" says Nick. "After the trip here, it would take a month of Sundays to get the smell out!"
"I'm sure we can work something out so that does not need to happen" adds Black Shawl.
"Mother" politely interrupts Michael "we still have several of the old tipis (pronounced tee-pees) in the shed, don't we?"
"Sees Far, we cannot possible ask your guests to stay in those."
"Tipi's?" asks an intrigued Nick, after swallowing a huge bite of taco.
"You mean tent things like the ones in the old western movies?" asks a similarly curious Judy.
"Kind of, but not really?" says Yvonne as she joins in the conversation.
"Michael and I spent our honeymoon in one, it's sort of a tradition here." she acknowledges.
Grinning an evil grin Judy eyes Nick "Whaddaya say Nick, wanna give it a go?"
"First of all," says Nick "can I ask for the recipe for these? These are absolutely great! And secondly, your 'try everything' thing is gonna be the death of me yet rabbit!"
In mock disgust, Black Shawl answers Nick "No, you will not get my recipe for the tacos!"
Holding up a paw to silence any comment from Nick she continues "Males are to provide for the home, females are to make the home. I will give the recipe to your mate if she desires it.
"Yes please" returns Judy. "This is absolutely some of the best food I've eaten lately."
"On one condition only" says Black Shawl.
"And that is?" asks a bewildered bunny.
"You must explain to me why rabbits, of all mammals are eating meat in my home."
"Well if you must know…" begins Judy.
At this, Skye groans, burying her face between her arms and mutters in mock despair "Please no… not again!"
As Judy explains exactly how she came to first eat meat, then how it intensified after she became pregnant, Skye could only suffer in silence. When Judy admitted that he brothers had inadvertently eaten some of Nick's spaghetti sauce and failed to die from turkey poisoning, Black Shawl couldn't contain her amusement any longer.
With a mischievous twinkle in her eyes, Black Shawl turned her attention to Yvonne "Tell me Stands With A Fist, do you have the same cravings as our young friend?"
Shooting a brief, slightly irritated glance at Judy, Yvonne has to admit "Yes grandmother, from time to time. The urge doesn't seem to be as bad as with Judy, but it does come and go now and then. Please don't tell grandfather. He teases me enough as it is."
"Your secret is safe with me. Please, eat up everyone. And Judy, you may help me make more in a few days' time. And these lovely vixens may learn as well if they wish."
"We'd love to!" admit Skye and Tiff, who had been enjoying the meal far too much for their own good.
"Sees Far, if you would take the males and go set up the tipis, the ladies and I will clean up."
"Right away mother."
"So, guys aren't allowed to cook?" asks Nick as the four males head outside to the storage shed.
"Not unless they are alone, no, It's an old custom that mother and father cling to. Nothing wrong with it here, it helps keep a good balance between duties. When we're home back in Zootopia, Yvonne and I share household chores, much the same as you and Judy most likely do."
Nodding, Nick notices that the storage shed seems kind of small to be holding several tipis.
"The shed's kinda small to hold a bunch of tipis isn't it?" he asks Michael.
"Only the outer covering and liners are in the shed" remarks Michael "the poles that are stacked along the side of the building complete the tipis."
"Wow" remarks Duane "how many of those do we need?"
"Twelve are traditionally used here" returns Michael. "If you and your lady friends aren't comfortable being in one, I will ask mother to let the ladies use Yvonne and my room in the house and you two can stay in the lean-to. It's fairly comfortable this time of year."
"Yea, I think that'll be the thing for us" agreed Duane.
"As you wish" comments Michael.
Addressing Nick "Since your mate has expressed the desire to spend time in the tipi, we will go ahead and set up two, one for you and one for Yvonne and I."
As the four slowly assemble the traditional tipis, Nick notices that both openings face the same direction.
"Is there a special reason why the doors face the same direction?" he asks.
"Yes. They always face east. That way when you leave the tipi in the morning, you always face the morning sun. It is like being reborn each day. This tradition has been passed down since time immemorial."
"Ok, sounds good" says Nick, suitably impressed by the logic of the statement.
Standing in the completed tipi, Michael briefs Nick on some proper etiquette, certain that his mother will do the same with Judy.
"The fire pit is always in the center" he begins "when you enter, you always circle from the left and exit from the right. This follows the path of the sun, and thus the circle of life. The female never steps in front of the male. The same rules apply in Inipi. Do you understand?"
"No problem here" explains Nick. "In fox culture, the vixen controls everything from sex to what have you."
"Interesting. It seems you would all fit in well here. Let us go to the house and get bedrolls and such for your stay."
As the tipis are readied for the night, Nick and Judy transfer their belonging to the tipi and so prepare for their little adventure.
Michael and the rest of the guys managed to get a good bonfire going as darkness begins to fall, and they are soon joined by Kicking bird as he returns home, soon followed by all of the ladies.
As everyone finds a seat around the cheery fire and settles in, Black Shawl brings out some frybread for everyone to munch on.
"Let me tell you some history of the Inipi" begins Kicking Bird.
…
As Kicking Bird begins his narrative, Nick, Judy and the rest listen attentively…..
"Before I begin my tale, you must understand that the Zootopian Indigenous Religious Freedom Act is a Zootopian federal law, enacted by joint resolution of the Congress. Before that, to practice the Inipi was strictly forbidden and participants were sent to federal prisons."
"Why … that's awful…" bemoaned Judy.
"Yes" agreed Kicking Bird "but it is in the past, so we try not to dwell on it. We carry on with today and look to the future as best we can. But enough with the past let me tell you a story of my tribe….'
'Many moons ago, not long after the Great Compromise which forbade the killing and eating of prey by predators, when the White Buffalo Calf Woman showed herself to two native scouts on a hill top, the seven sacred councils of the Lakota nation were starving. These nomadic hunters found themselves without a herd and out of touch with the Creator.'
'Legend has it the two Lakota scouts came across a beautiful, celestial female dressed in all white buffalo skin while seeking the herd, noticing immediately that she was wakan – holy. One of the males lusted after her but was immediately struck down for his impure thoughts, reduced to a pile of bones, while the other was told to go back to the tribe and prepare for her arrival.'
'When she came before the Lakota councils, she brought the Chanupa, a sacred prayer pipe, and taught the seven sacred rites, including the vision quest, Sundance, and Inipi ceremony.'
'For the Lakota mammals, the Inipi is sacred. It's a ceremony of intentional discomfort to vicariously experience the suffering of others in the world and send them prayer with true intent. Most non-natives are more familiar with the term sweat lodge; a short, wigwam-shaped hut covered in buckskins or blankets, filled with blazing rocks that create a sauna-like atmosphere.'
'Early in my life, I participated in a traditional sweat lodge, or Inipi ceremony, run by a Lakota elder who carries the Chanupa, the sacred pipe, and whose grandfather fought in the battle of Little Bighorn. Long Soldier was his name. Long Soldier lives in Buena Vista, where he regularly holds Inipi ceremonies, but later he came to start the Sacred Earth Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to preserving indigenous culture and traditions, about an hour northwest of Colorado Springs.'
'My friend, Douglas, and I arrived just after noon and were greeted by Pati, an incredibly welcoming woman who runs the foundation. Pati is well-versed in indigenous culture and holds sweats of her own as well as a number of initiation ceremonies.'
'Pati exuded a deep maternal warmth, making us feel as if we had known her our entire lives. She told us that everyone was very excited for Long Soldier to host the ceremony, but that it would probably be a bit more difficult than the ones she holds. We were a bit nervous, but the excitement and intrigue overpowered our anxiety.'
'Neither of us had ever participated in one of these ceremonies before, and in retrospect, it might have been a good idea to do a couple entry-level sweats before jumping into a rigorous one with a native elder, but it was too late for that, and we were too gung-ho about the whole idea to even consider this. So, we made our way up to the sweat lodge to meet the rest of the group, who were discussing basic etiquette and rituals of the ceremony with Long Soldier.'
'We were cleansed in a smudging ceremony and told to keep a large fire stoked next to the lodge. Within the fire were the grandfather stones; over 40 volcanic rocks incrementally brought in the sweat lodge over four rounds.'
'The grandfather stones sat heating under this inferno for a few hours, until they were so hot it looked like they just cooled from magma. Whenever I placed logs on the fire it felt as if my eyebrows were singeing.'
'The sweat lodge is built from 16 saplings with a door facing to the east. The lodge and the ground it sits on represent the grandmother and divine femininity; the womb is the intended symbolism. The grandfather stones were the source of heat and with them is where one is to leave all their problems. The grandfather, known as Tunkashila, is represented above, synonymous with Wakan – the Great Creator or the Great Mystery.'
'The Lakota are a very spiritual, monotheistic people, who dedicate much of their lives to religious devotion. Some of the most legendary Native mammals were Lakota, including Sitting Bull and Crazy Horse. Long Soldier sported a jacket with that timeless portrait of Sitting Bull prominently displayed on his chest, his visage the definition of stoic. It was humbling to think that someone two degrees from this native legend was about to share this ceremony with us.'
'We chatted with Long Soldier about ceremonial protocol and he told us that traditionally women were not allowed in the sweat lodge if they were on their "moon," or heat cycle. This seemed to slightly irk one female member of the group, as she pressed Long Soldier why this was the case.'
As it turns out, the reason has nothing to do with antiquated patriarchal customs, but rather because we Lakota believe that a heat cycle is a female's process of purification that recharges and repowers her body. This purification is a time of energy reinvigoration, and can also interfere with the power of the sweat lodge. Males don't have this type of natural purification process, so sweat lodges were held for their purification.
'We asked Long Soldier about other aspects of Native Mammalian culture and the different ceremonies he takes part in. He told us about the Sundance ceremony, an intense rite of passage, during which males' journey to the top of a hill and deprive themselves of food and water for four days.'
'During the Sundance, two wooden dowels are pierced above the male's pectoral muscles and then strung to a pole. Others have the skin on their back pierced and attached to a buffalo skull that they drag around the pole until it rips out, or the males fall over in exhaustion. Long Soldier said he completed the latter ceremony, but had only completed half of the former – he committed to four years of the Sundance, with two years of scars to prove it. A few females have Sun Danced and always drag skulls around the circle. Lakota females traditionally cover themselves so as not to provoke the males.'
'Long Soldier told us there were strict rules with the Sundance, Inipi, and any other Lakota rite. These ceremonies are incredibly sacred to the mammals and over the past several decades there have been many charlatans who have attempted to profit from them. He reiterated several times that if one ever goes to a sweat lodge ceremony and someone asks for money, run away. Profiting from a sweat lodge is sacrilegious to the Lakota.'
'Not too long ago, a few mammals died and many were injured in a bogus sweat lodge ceremony in Airizona. A new age group outside of Sedona was running a large "sweatbox" with 50 to 60 mammals inside – about five times the number of mammals normally welcomed into a lodge. The "ceremony" took place at a for-profit resort without native sanctioning or supervision. A clear example of what can go wrong when native culture is appropriated.'
'Soon, it was time to enter the lodge and begin the ceremony. We lined up, with females entering first, forming an outer circle. Males followed next, creating an inner circle closest to the pit where the grandfather stones were placed. Douglas and I sat furthest from the door and about a foot from the grandfather stones. We would later find out that this was one of the most difficult spots – perfect for our first sweat…'
'Typically, there are between 10 and 12 participants in the lodge, in an area roughly equivalent to that of a four-mammal tent. Because Long Soldier was hosting the ceremony, there was a large turnout that day, so we squeezed about 20 of us inside, but under his supervision we felt safe."
"Isn't something like that awfully uncomfortable?" asks Judy.
"You're supposed to be uncomfortable, the ceremony is about suffering," Kicking Bird replied.
"And uncomfortable we were. We sat on the ground, some cross-legged, others with arms clutching knees to the chest. There was no space in between us, we were snugly situated as close as possible. If anyone still felt like they were strangers, we weren't anymore.'
'Long Soldier took his place by the door, hanging a pair of eagle talons above his head. He passed around sage, sweetgrass, and copal for us to burn as the ceremony went on. The first round began with seven stones.'
'Before the door is closed, your body starts dripping with sweat and you realize this is going to be much hotter than a sauna. The last waft of fresh air fades as the entrance is closed off and all light is extinguished by blankets draped over the lodge.'
'It was hot and pitch black, but it felt good. Long Soldier began telling Native Lakota stories and educated us on the basic symbolism and beliefs of the Lakota people. To the East is where the Sun comes, bringing light to all creation. To the west were the Thunder beings, who represent death and choose when it's our time to leave the Earth.'
'He then began to sing in his native tongue while beating a drum. The songs were beautiful and relaxing.'
'Long Soldier poured water on the grandfather stones and immediately the lodge was engulfed in steam. I was a bit startled as I couldn't see anything and my mouth instantly tasted like dirt brought up from the vapor. But it still felt good – now it was like a sauna.'
'Before we knew it, the first round was over and the entrance flap opened. This initial round probably lasted around 45 minutes, and at this point, I was relatively confident in my ability to endure the entire ceremony.'
'The air brought in through the flap felt incredible and a reprieve from the heat was welcomed, but after 15 minutes or so, 12 more rocks were brought in, intensifying the heat and starting our next round.'
'Halfway through the second round I began to feel dizzy and a little disoriented. Breathing became difficult, feeling like a weight had been placed on my chest. I tried to just focus on my breath, like I would when meditating, although the physical pain was distracting.'
'When I was younger, I broke my back in an accident, so sitting in this position for extended periods is difficult, but I reminded myself that this was the entire point of the sweat. I needed to stick it out.'
'Long Soldier encouraged us to share what we were there to achieve, who we were suffering for, and the intentions we wanted to implement in our lives. This was when things began to get emotional.'
'I fought back tears from the combination of physical pain, palpable emotional energy in the lodge, and intense heat.'
'But then a cathartic wave of happiness swept over me and took my mind off the pain. It was an emotional rollercoaster, but I could feel the power of the Inipi. After each mammal shared their intention we would say "Mitakuye Oyasin," meaning "all my relations," or "all are related."
'My strength was fleeting though, and soon it became unbearable. When this second round ended, Douglas and I looked at each other and agreed we both would have trouble making it through a third round. At this point we had been in the lodge for well over two hours. We were told that after the third round, during which the Chanupa ceremony took place, we would be allowed to leave, but another round in there seemed like an eternity.'
'We exited the sweat lodge to our dismay, but in retrospect we were happy that we left when we did. Douglas suffered from some nerve damage in his neck and had lost feeling in his hands and feet. If we had more room to sit and stretch out, we might have made it, but our physical pains were hard to ignore.'
'After the ceremony, that continued for another hour and a half or more, we were relieved upon hearing this was the longest ceremony Pati had ever seen there. Our embarrassment for feeling that we were being disrespectful by not lasting through the Chanupa round was assuaged by the kindness of other participants.'
'One participant, who exited the lodge when we did, said he had done 12 sweats prior and had never been unable to last the entire duration. Others told us we were sitting in one of the more difficult positions, making us feel better about our early departure.'
'We shared a potluck dinner afterwards in Pati's house and mingled for the next hour. I had a pounding headache and no matter how much water I drank, it wouldn't go away. I felt physically and emotionally drained, and fell asleep as soon as I got home. But the next day I felt great, clearly detoxed.'
'I would do more sweats in the future, but this time I would prepare myself physically and mentally ahead of time, more than I had. There is a reason the Lakota take the Inipi ceremony so seriously, aside from the fact that it is a sacred aspect of their spirituality. It is a powerful tool for prayer, purification, and introspection that should be conducted with reverence for native culture and pure intentions.'
'Long Soldier conducts sweat ceremonies regularly in Buena Vista and occasionally in other towns throughout the state. He is a national treasure and his work preserving native culture is inspirational.'
"I will not make you endure all of the discomfort that I endured during my first Inipi" finished Kicking Bird addressing the visitors.
Noticing the curious glances by almost all, including Yvonne and Michael, Kicking Bird continues "Sees Far is accomplished enough that Black Shawl and I will allow him to perform his first Inipi. It should not be as severe as if one of us were to perform it. Make no mistake, it will still be very uncomfortable … as it is meant to be."
"Father I-thank you. I will do my best so as not to dishonor you or the ancestors." replies an astonished Michael.
"Everyone should rest now." began Black Shawl "Tomorrow we will introduce you to some of the local mammals and you can learn some of our customs and perhaps some crafts. We try to keep the young busy so they have no time to pick up some of the bad habits that many of the older mammals have picked up."
"Also" enjoined Kicking Bird "Sees Far will prepare you for participating in the Inipi. There is much more to it than just going into a hot, dark place. With that I will leave you. Mitakuye Oyasin."
"Mitakuye Oyasin." All reply in unison.
XxX
A/N: Yes, the slightly stilted speech and formal way of addressing people are part of the Lakota culture, especially among the elders.
Many aspects of the Inipi, the, Sun Dance and other Lakota ceremonies have been changed to be in line with the story.
Replace indigenous with Indian and everything might make more sense.
I realize that most of the mammals portrayed in the story can't actually sweat …. it's fiction folks.