-This hike is totally not booby-trapped-
When Trisha had surprised Nick at his front door he had been pleasantly surprised. He was even more so when the two spent almost the whole day together.
Not once did the bunny allow Nick's mind to wander to a certain vixen, whether she did this on purpose or accident was completely a mystery to Nick but he decided not to question it.
The two spent the day wandering around Fairfax, chatting with Judy over the radio, and generally just goofing off.
The day had ended with them meeting up with Delta at "The Barn" for a drink. Trisha leaped into her painted mate's arms and had given him quite the smooch when they arrived. Only to pull away and start pummeling the larger mammal with slaps.
"Ack! What's this for!?"
"You had one job! Keep that pain in the ass busy for a day!" Trisha shouted as she climbed up onto Delta's back and began to knaw at one of his circular ears.
After settling down the group enjoyed a few drinks. Delta tried apologizing to Nick who simply shook his head, reminding the painted ranger how he had covered for Nick that day and he would be buying his painted friend a drink.
"And what about me?" Trisha asked at the new information that drinks would be on Nick.
"You already stole some cherries."
"Boooooo," Trisha groaned before settling in her chair.
The rest of the evening was actually rather nice. While Nick wished a certain gray bunny was with them he could still appreciate a night out with friends.
When it came time to part ways in the parking lot Delta gave Nick a pat on the back.
"You ready for tomorrow?" The painted ranger asked as he raised a brow at the fox.
Nick looked down at Trisha who was stumbling thanks to the moonshine in her system. The doe's ears perked up and she gave Nick a wink.
"Oh yeah, think Trish and I got this."
"You know it," Trisha cheered before stumbling towards Nick, her arms open.
Nick rolled his eyes and took a knee, knowing full well that when Trisha wanted a hug she got it one way or another.
As he wrapped an arm around the small doe he felt her lean up and plant a gentle kiss on his cheek.
"Just leave it to me tomorrow ok? All you have to do is get to Wewa so Judy can stop bugging me about missing your goofy face."
"Think you mean handsome face."
"I know what I said," Trisha chuckled before giving the fox a quick nuzzle on the cheek. She then pulled away from the hug and grinned evilly up at Nick. "Now if you excuse me. I have been away from my painted plaything far too long. Need to get some pent up energy out."
Nick let out a laugh as he stood up and glanced over at Delta who had a concerned look on his muzzle. The larger canine looked at Nick nervously, "Call for help."
"Oh no, ya don't!" Trisha bellowed as she jumped up and wrapped her arms and legs around Delta, resting her head on his chest. "I hope you have been stretching lately because I want to try that thing we did at the falls again."
Nick let out a snort and then playfully gagged as he watched the two trouble makers head to Delta's truck.
Even though he knew he would have to see a certain vixen tomorrow Nick was actually excited. Not just because Trisha promised to keep Debbie off his tail, but because he would be seeing his bunny again. The thought of wrapping Judy up in his arms continued to play out again and again in his head as he made it home and prepared for bed.
When he finally laid back in bed he looked over at his walkie talkie. The device had a green light blinking by its antenna, showing it had now fully charged.
The fox grinned as he reached over and pressed a small button on the side of the walkie.
"Hey there camper," Nick said as he slowly closed his eyes. He only had to wait for a second or two for Judy's response.
"Mmmm, evening Ranger," Judy said sweetly.
Though he was alone in his cabin the faint scent of Judy still lingered in the room. Nick took a deep breath and imagined his bunny curled up next to him.
"You ready for tomorrow?"
"Camp is all set for the new arrivals," Judy said with a sigh. "I just hope it will be enough."
"That's not what I meant," Nick replied as his lips curled into a smile.
"Oh? What should I be ready for?"
"Me."
"Hmmm, really now? And what is it you plan to do?"
Nick slowly opened his eyes and thought it over.
Was it time to mark her as his own?
Were they at that point in the relationship?
The thought had been crossing his mind a lot lately. He knew that Judy was the one he wanted to be with. How they had already bonded so much and managed to make it through some rather crazy hardships lately.
Debbie's arrival to Fairfax had been a real testing point and though Nick felt his carnal instincts slip once or twice before he remembered that every time he felt himself falter the thought of Judy made him strong.
He had heard on occasion this would happen to foxes who were in a dilemma about bonding. Whenever they saw one possible mate another would pop into their minds. The answer was obvious at that point.
The only real issue though was Judy was not a vixen. She was a small bunny.
So what if she is a bunny? Hasn't she proven herself?
Nick was always the type to think outside of the box. Sure in a fight between a fox and a bunny the victor would be clear. That however wasn't a true sign of strength.
Who had been there for Nick when he was at his lowest point? Who had listened to his woes and did not just brush them aside but embraced Nick for all his baggage?
Finally, he remembered who had put him in that position in the first place had been. Who had made a decision that nearly tore him apart?
Nick knew that he had never planned to return to Debbie. There had been a faltering moment or two, but he never thought for a minute of going back to her.
Now though the answer was clear. He had bonded with Debbie in the past and she had broken that pact. Judy however had done so much for Nick. In a way, he had already bonded to Judy. So taking this final step would really just be a formality.
One that Nick intended to-
"Wow it must be good if it's taken this long to get a response," Judy chuckled over the radio.
Nick had lost track of time and had been silent for a minute or two after his last transmission.
"Oh sorry Carrots," Nick said as he blinked a few times. His mind was now made up.
Tomorrow is the day I will bond with her.
The next day actually came a little sooner than normal. Mainly because Nick had to wake up early to meet everyone at the lodge.
While this would have normally been a pain in the rear he had grown accustomed to earlier mornings. Waking up an hour or two earlier wasn't the biggest problem anymore. He still needed his morning coffee to get going but the thought of seeing Judy gave him a bit more energy.
As Nick waited for his coffee to finish brewing he keyed up the radio that kept him connected to Judy.
"Good morning Campers," Nick said in a sly manner.
"Mmmm...morning my handsome ranger," Judy came back, sounding as if she was still curled up in bed.
"Are you still waking up?" Nick asked in mild surprise.
Normally he was the last one up, his bunny having already gotten ready for the day way before him.
"I was up late last night," Judy mumbled.
"Last minute camp prep?"
"Something like that."
"Oh do tell," Nick chuckled as he poured some of the hot brew from the coffee machine into a portable thermos.
"You will see soon enough," Judy yawned over the radio. "You getting ready to head to the lodge?"
"Yup got to pick up the campers," Nick grumbled.
While he was excited to see Judy there was a part of the day he was dreading to deal with.
"Well just let Trisha handle things and get that floofy tail of yours to camp," Judy giggled.
"Is that all I am to you?" Nick asked as he poured some cream into his coffee and gave it a quick stir.
"Mmmm...floofy."
"Well soon you can curl up with the floof, shouldn't take us too long to get to Wewa right?"
Nick had actually never been to Wewa but knew it wasn't too far from the main region. Of course with such an expansive forest out there 'too far' had different definitions.
"Might take a bit," Judy explained. "The plan is to have you all drive to a scenic outlook so the gang can get some pictures. From there its a bit of a hike."
"Hike?"
"Well the roads aren't 100% clear and with all the rain we have been having we were worried the bus might get stuck. We plan to have someone come and get everyone's luggage while the rest of you hoof it to Wewa. Don't worry though, Trisha knows the way."
"Well this day just got a lot more interesting," Nick chuckled as he took a sip of coffee.
"I told her to behave."
"Think she will listen?"
"Kinda hoping she doesn't," Judy giggled.
Once Nick had his coffee he loaded up his hiking backpack onto the passenger seat of his pickup truck. He had brought enough clothing for a few days. He was a little curious as to the plans when they got everyone to Wewa. Judy had told him what she had outlined but it was all dependent on the weather.
Sadly the storm clouds that had arrived earlier were still sitting over Fairfax and the surrounding forests.
The ground in some areas had even become unstable due to water damage. When Nick left Camp Currey he noticed how a small bluff had collapsed and some of the road was blocked by rocks and debris.
Nick scooped up his walkie and clicked the button on the side.
"If the roads are just as bad here as they are in Wewa I think I would prefer to walk," Nick said as he passed by a road crew that was already busy with clearing the road of debris.
"That bad?" Judy came back, sounding as if she was stifling another yawn.
"Just how late did you stay up exactly?" Nick asked as he pulled up to a stop sign before proceeding on his way.
"I'm ok, we still have a few hours before we really need to get ready. We aren't expecting you lot to arrive till around noon."
"So I have to keep Trisha out of trouble till then? Asking a bit much aren't we Carrots?"
There was some laughter over the radio that made Nick grin before he transmitted again.
"Get some rest, you are going to need it for when I finally get up there."
"Kind of reminds me of when we were Firewatchers."
"We were so young," Nick teased.
"So naive."
"Get some rest Thorofare, I will be at your tower soon enough."
"Sounds good Two Forks," Judy replied sweetly.
The rest of the drive was uneventful. Thanks to the early hour Nick didn't have to worry too much about traffic, not that he worried about it before.
There were still a few vehicles on the road, however. Most of them were like him. Park employees on their way to work early or maybe even a late-night team ending their shift.
Nick noticed the occasional tree collapse here and there. Most of them were older trees that had been weakened with time. The rain however had finally finished them off. With every end though came a new beginning. Nick smiled as he saw several smaller trees seem to pop up out of the ground around the now fallen giants.
When he arrived at the lodge a light drizzle was coming down. Since the sun was still resting on the other side of the mountain the sky was filled with a dark blue that was slowly starting to brighten up.
Nick pulled his truck into a vacant spot in the employee parking area. He made a point to park in the far corner, offering closer spaces to his fellow employees. Since he was going to be leaving the truck there for a few days he didn't want to take a spot too close to the lodge.
After taking another swig from his thermos Nick took a moment to close his eyes and let out a sigh.
"Just a few more hours," He mumbled to himself before grabbing his hiking kit and hopping out of his truck.
Nick trotted through the wet parking lot and took in a deep breath of the fresh air. The rain had added a slight chill that felt refreshing when breathed in.
When he reached the lodge he spotted a small green bus idling near the front entrance under the porte cochere. Several mammals were hanging around the bus, most likely waiting on everyone to arrive.
"There he is," Delta smirked when he spotted Nick approaching.
"Morning Wilde," Skye said as she raised a cup of coffee in greeting.
"Well hey there Boss," Nick said with a smile towards Skye. He then glanced over at Delta and gave the painted dog a nod. "Where is the blue-eyed trouble maker?"
There was a whistle from on top of the bus which caught Nick's attention. The fox looked up in time to see the bunny hop from atop the bus.
"Oh my gosh!" Nick let out as he instinctively held his arms out and caught the laughing bunny.
"Good catch," Trisha beamed as Nick set the doe down before being wrapped up in a hug by the bunny.
"Is the world just a giant playground to you Ranger Rose?" Skye asked before taking a sip of her coffee. The arctic fox was met with a silence that made her glance over at her fellow rangers who all gave her a look of disbelief. "Sorry, forgot who I was asking."
"Toss your gear in the back of the bus Wilde," Trisha instructed Nick as she took a moment to adjust the cuff of Nick's long sleeves. Trisha was in her own long sleeve ranger uniform, she did however have the pants rolled up so they looked more like shorts than anything.
Nick did as he was told and trotted up into the short camp bus. A ram in a parks jumpsuit was sitting in the driver seat and looked up from his crossword puzzle and gave Nick a nod.
"Morning Ranger," The ram said as he began to get out of his seat. "Need help with that?"
"I got it," Nick said with a smirk.
"Ten to the four, just toss it in the back seats, that's where we will be keeping everyone's luggage and gear till the unload."
Nick nodded and trotted down the aisle of the bus towards the back. He noticed Trisha's bag and placed his own hiking kit next to the doe's. He also noticed several large bags with the park's department logo faded on the sides which assumed it was extra supplies that were needed at the camp.
Once his gear was settled Nick made his way out of the small bus and waited alongside his fellow rangers.
"So here to see us off?" Nick asked Skye who raised a brow before nodding.
"Thought it would be best to give a certain ranger one last reminder to behave themself."
"Yeah Nick," Trisha said from her spot on Delta's back. The doe having scurried up her painted plaything's back so she could rest her head on his shoulder.
"And I am just here to see my favorite Ranger off," Delta said with a wink towards Nick. "Gonna miss ya bud."
"Hey!" Trisha barked before taking a deep breath and pressing her lips to Delta's cheeks, blowing against the fur and giving him a raspberry.
Nick chuckled at his friend's antics before popping open his thermos and taking a swig of coffee.
"So Wilde, after dealing with her for two weeks straight how do you take your coffee?" Skye asked playfully.
"With room for scotch," Nick replied smugly.
Skye simply chuckled, "I am more of a whiskey girl myself."
"Rum," Delta said as he raised a paw up.
"You lot love me and you know it," Trisha grumbled before sliding off of Delta's back and adjusting her uniform.
The rangers continued to chat for a few minutes before another group of mammals approached from the lodge.
Nick noticed Lily right away, the raccoon was back in her business formal attire. It made sense, after all now that the VIMs were heading to Wewa Lily would be returning to her duties at the business center of the lodge.
He felt a little sad that his new friend wouldn't be joining them at Wewa but made a mental note to check in with her when they returned. He had already run it by Judy and the two had planned to treat Lily to a nice dinner as thanks for all her help during these trying times.
Just behind Lily were Al, Clive, and bringing up the rear was a rather tired looking Debbie.
"Good morning Rangers," Lily said with a kind formality as she approached.
The rangers all greeted Lily, Trisha however was not one for just words. The doe opened her arms and gave the raccoon a friendly hug which was happily returned.
"Well, there he is," Clive said with a grin as he approached Nick. "Have to say we missed you yesterday my boy."
"Hey now," Delta said, feigning insult.
"Oh gosh how rude of me," Clive blurted out. "Delta, it was fantastic spending the day with you."
Delta raised a paw and chuckled, "I am just messing with you, sir."
"It was an interesting day that's for sure," Al said as he approached. He then glanced at Nick and gave him a kind nod. "How are you doing Nick?"
While Al's greeting was nice Nick could still tell there was a slight awkwardness to it. The revelation that Judy and Nick were a pred prey couple must have still been a bit of a culture shock to Al, but at least he was trying.
"Doing good Al, how about you?"
"Still waking up I'm afraid," the koala admitted before stifling a yawn. "Of course I am in far better shape than a certain fox."
Nick glanced over at Debbie who looked like a zombie with how she shuffled her paws before letting out a long yawn.
"Looks like someone stayed up late," Delta said with a chuckle.
"My alarm kept going off for some reason, finally had to unplug it," Debbie moaned.
Nick glanced down at Trisha who simply winked up at Nick.
Not even going to ask her how she did that.
Delta and the ram from the parks department began to gather everyone's luggage and gear and proceed to load it into the back of the bus. While everyone's stuff was loaded Trisha introduced herself.
"Good morning campers," Trisha began as she looked around the three VIMs. "My name is Ranger Trisha Rose. Please just call me Trisha."
Nick had to stifle a laugh when he heard Trisha's full title. The thought that she could be professional was rather amusing.
"Ranger Wilde and I will be escorting you to Camp Wewa," Trisha continued. "Due to the weather though we will not be able to drive all the way to Wewa."
There were several looks of concern from the others but Trisha was quick to remedy the hesitant atmosphere.
"Not to worry though. We will be stopping at one of our best scenic outlooks so you all can enjoy a morning view of our wonderful forests. From there its just a short hike to Wewa. I walked the path myself before I came back here to Fairfax and I think you all will get a kick out of it."
"Ranger Rose?" Al began before Trisha corrected him.
"Trisha, please, Mister?"
"Just call me Al," The koala said with a smirk. "What kind of hike will this be?"
"An easy one trust me," Trisha beamed. "You think we would give you the 5-star treatment at the lodge only to toss you out into the rough wild?"
Al chuckled and nodded.
"Wouldn't be the first time I got myself tossed into the woods," Clive joked.
"Oh, I like you, what's your name handsome?" Trisha grinned.
"Clive, but don't hesitate to keep calling me handsome," The armadillo laughed.
"Sounds good to me handsome," Trisha smirked, throwing on one of her signature winks that probably made Clive's old heart skip a beat. Trisha then glanced at Debbie, "And I have already met the sleeper over here."
Debbie stifled a yawn and then did something that made all the rangers tense up. The vixen trotted over to Nick and then rested her head on his shoulder.
It took everything Nick had not to flinch. He remained calm as he looked over at Debbie who closed her eyes.
"Tell me we can nap on the bus ride," Debbie mumbled.
There was a loud crashing noise from inside the bus that caught everyone's attention.
Delta stuck his head out of one of the windows and gave everyone a weak smile, "Sorry about that, Nick your pack fell over. Nothing is broken though."
Nick knew better though and was once again in debt to his painted friend.
"No worries Delta," Nick said before giving the painted dog the slightest of nods.
Delta's plan had worked as the loud noise had startled even Debbie who was now standing up straight.
Once everything was loaded up it was time for the group to head up to Wewa.
"Alright campers, all set?" The ram asked as he hopped from the bus with Delta. "My name is Mac and I will be your driver today. However, if you have any complaints my name was Jeff."
Clive let out a laugh at the cheesy joke as he was helped into the bus, followed by Al.
Nick bid Lily and Skye a farewell before glancing over at Delta. He had intended to say goodbye to his painted dog friend but it appeared Delta was a little busy.
Trisha had leaped up into her canine's arms and had her lips pressed to Delta's as the two shared a rather passionate embrace. The way the doe held onto the canine made it obvious she didn't want to let go.
Skye began to clear her throat but after the third attempt trotted over and grabbed Trisha by the back of her collar.
"You have to act at least a little professional," Skye reminded the two.
"Don't worry boss, I have a goodbye kiss for you too," Trisha laughed as she squirmed in Skye's grasp.
Nick walked over to Delta and extended a paw which the other canine took.
"Thanks for everything," Nick said softly.
"Of course partner," Delta grinned. "Just do me a favor."
"Anything."
"Don't let Trisha get into too much trouble will ya?"
Nick let out a long sigh, "Maybe something easier?"
"Heart surgery?"
Nick let out a laugh, "That would actually be a lot easier."
With that, the two canines parted ways and Nick trotted up the steps into the bus before the door closed behind him.
He looked down the aisle of the bus and was pleased to see that Trisha had saved him a seat in the front row. As he sat down he looked over his shoulder at the others.
Debbie was in her own row, leaning against a window with her eyes closed. Clive was busy fiddling with his camera while Al had a look of shock on his face.
"Oh come on now its not that weird," Clive mumbled as he finally finished with his camera and looked at the koala next to him.
"Its just...a painted dog and a bunny?"
"One of my nieces is dating a skunk. It's a different age Al."
"Skunks don't have sharp teeth though."
"It doesn't matter if the teeth are sharp or not. Still hurts like hell when you get bit."
"Who is going around biting you?" Al snorted.
"Your sister."
"Clive!"
Nick had to admit it was rather amusing overhearing the two VIMs a few rows behind them. He glanced down at Trisha who was stifling a laugh. The doe noticed Nick's gaze.
"I like Clive," Trisha whispered with a smile.
Everyone looked out the side of the bus and waved farewell to Lily, Skye, and Delta as the vehicle finally pulled out from the lodge.
Once they were on the main road Trisha stood up in her seat.
"Trade spots with me Nick," The doe instructed as she started to climb over Nick.
As Nick tried to slide over in the seat there was a bump in the road that caused Trisha to fall forward and land on Nick's lap. The doe let out a laugh.
"Save it for Judy big boy," The bunny teased.
Nick simply rolled his eyes as Trisha clambered off his lap.
"Everything is a game to you."
"Lifes more fun that way," Trisha said as she stuck out her tongue before she stood up in her seat once more and turned around.
"Alright, Campers," The bunny began which got the other's attention.
"It is a bit of a drive ahead so if you want to take a nap you can. We will be making a rest stop in about an hour or so before continuing on to Lookout point."
"What's the name of the lookout?" Al asked as the bus bounced along.
"That's its actual name, Lookout point."
"Simple," Clive teased.
"To the point," Al added.
"I like these guys," Trisha said as she glanced down at Nick in the seat next to her, the small bunny tail sticking out of her pants giving a slight wiggle.
The rest of the bus ride was uneventful, mainly in thanks to the early hour. The other mammals were still rather tired or waking up so they kept to themselves.
Nick braved a glance back at Debbie and was pleased to see the vixen had slumped in her seat and was passed out.
"She never was a morning mammal," Nick whispered to Trisha who also glanced back at the sleeping vixen.
"Let's draw on her face," Trisha suggested excitedly.
Nick started to laugh until Trisha stood up and began to climb out of her seat. The fox reached over and quickly grabbed the bunny back the back of the collar.
"Ack, come on Wilde," Trisha whispered.
"You are supposed to stay out of trouble," Nick said through gritted teeth.
"Well yeah I am supposed to," Trisha whispered. "Doesn't mean I will though."
The drive actually took a little longer than Nick had expected. At first, he thought it was the anticipation of seeing a certain gray bunny. After a quick check of his watch, he glanced over at Trisha and raised a brow.
"Could be worse," Trisha said as she smirked up at Nick. "You could be hiking back to Two Forks."
Nick rolled his eyes.
Trisha had a point. The hike to Two forks had actually taken him a day.
He looked out the window of the camp bus and let his mind drift back to a different time.
The forest they were currently driving through was the same he had seen from his pickup truck as he drove to a deserted parking lot. It was the same one he had trudged through on a two-day hike to some rickety firewatch tower in the middle of a sea of trees.
Nick blinked a few times as he remembered what exactly had brought him here, she was currently napping just a few seats behind him.
How different would things have been if he hadn't taken this job?
He could only imagine what it would have been like if he had stayed in Zootopia. He may have ended up on a bus like this with Debbie slowly walking on.
His heart would have ached, he would have probably kept his eyes on the floor, it would take all he had to not break down at her scent, but that wasn't the case.
Instead, he had met Judy and now that's all that mattered.
The bus began to climb a steady slope and eventually the trees thinned out.
Even though Nick had spent so much time in the forests the sights never ceased to amaze him.
As the last of the trees zoomed past the window he was met with a truly stunning view. The clouds continued to cover the sky but that didn't detract from the beauty of it all.
The bus continued up the slope that overlooked an ocean of green. A series of mountains sat in the distance like sleeping giants on a bed of greenery.
"Its kind of romantic ain't it?" Trisha whispered as she stood behind the fox and rested her head on his shoulder.
Nick chuckled, " Sure is Trish."
"Not much longer now Wilde," The bunny whispered as she brushed her cheek against his and then plopped back down in her seat.
Trisha had been right, it didn't take much longer for them to reach Lookout Point.
The bus pulled into a mostly deserted parking lot. Nick recognized a parks employee waiting nearby with an ATV that seemed to have a trailer attached to its back.
"Guess we know how Judy plans to get all our luggage up to the camp," Nick chuckled.
"She said sending the big trucks would have been overkill," Trisha added. The bunny took a moment to stretch before she stood up in her seat. She looked like she was about to say something but froze as a mischievous smile graced her lips.
Nick looked over in time to see Trisha hop from her spot on the bus seat and start to run down the aisle.
The fox's eyes went wide as he realized what Trisha was up to.
Debbie was still sound asleep in her seat and Trisha seemed rather eager to correct that.
"Trisha," Nick whispered as he tried to reach out and grab the doe who was just a little too quick.
Al and Clive seemed to take notice of what was going on and both watched with a silent amusement as Trisha began to quietly tiptoe past Debbie towards the pile of luggage in the back.
What is she up to?!
Nick got up from his seat and started to head towards his fellow ranger but Trisha turned and glared at the fox who knew better than to go against the bunny.
All anyone could do was sit and watch in silence as Trisha began to rummage through some bags with the parks department logo on the side.
Nick had thought it was all spare gear but he heard a jingling like a tambourine in one of the bags, along with an odd strum like a guitar had been bumped.
Trisha eventually found what she was looking forward and turned for all to see.
The bunny had the evilest of smiles on her lovely face as she held up an instrument that Nick recognized as a musical triangle.
Nick slouched slightly as he put two and two together. He started shaking his head only to have Trisha nod eagerly.
The bunny then glanced at Clive and Al who both nodded quickly in response.
Well looks like I have been outvoted.
Trisha wiggled excitedly before slowly clambering on the seat just behind Debbie.
She stood on the seat and was able to hold the small instrument just behind Debbie's head.
There was a moment of complete silence in the bus as everyone seemed to hold their breathes before the chaos began.
Trisha quietly moved the small metal rod between the triangle before flicking her wrist rapidly.
The bus was suddenly filled with a loud ringing that caused the vixen who had been sound asleep to nearly jump out of her seat.
"Wake up Camper!" Trisha shouted, adding to the noise which had jolted Debbie from her slumber.
"What in the-?!" Debbie barked as she grabbed her chest and looked around in a panic.
Trisha calmly hopped from the seat just behind the vixen and trotted to the back seat section where she stored the instrument. She then grabbed a small hiking pack and tossed it over her shoulder before looping her arms through the straps.
"That's one way to wake a heavy sleeper," Al chuckled.
Debbie however did not find it the least bit amusing and glared at Trisha who had a strut to her step as she made her way to the front of the bus before turning around to address the campers.
"We have arrived at Lookout Point, gather what you need for a hike, the rest will be taken directly to Wewa," Trisha said as she took a moment to adjust her long sleeves.
The bunny glanced at Nick and gave him a wink with her brilliant blue eyes before she hopped off the bus.
It took the rest of the mammals a few minutes to get off the bus.
Each of them grabbed a backpack with some supplies they had been told they may need for a hike. They then proceed to exit the bus and breath in the fresh air.
Debbie was the last to exit the bus, the vixen rubbing one of her ears and grumbling as she took a moment to stretch her legs.
Trisha meanwhile busied herself with organizing things between the other two park employees. Which left Nick with a quiet moment to call a certain bunny waiting for him at camp.
"Hey there Wewa," Nick said as he slowly trotted over to a small stone wall at the edge of the parking area. He took a moment to take in the truly fantastic view, wishing a certain someone was there to share it with him.
"Oh my gosh, Wewa? Really?" Judy giggled. "Think I prefer Thorofare."
"Aww come on, it's a cute name."
"You calling me cute?"
"Very."
There was a pause on the radio before Judy returned, "Is it too late to send you back to the lodge?"
It was Nick's turn to laugh. Afterward, he took in a deep breath as he looked out at the beautiful rain covered view of a distant valley.
"Can't wait to see you, Judy."
"Me too Nick."
"You know this kind of reminds me of our Firewatch days."
"Only this time the whole forest isn't burning down."
"Good point, guess the rain isnt so bad."
"Its perfect cuddle weather."
"Can't wait."
"Oh I meant with Trisha, you can just wait your turn."
Nick rolled his eyes as he glanced over at Trisha who was laughing with one of the other park employees.
"Speaking of Trisha, you may have to have a word with her."
"What she do?" Judy grumbled.
"Used some triangles to wake up a certain vixen from a nap."
Judy's giggles started to fill the walkie talkie.
"Oh my gosh, really?"
"Oh yeah."
"Love her," Judy said with a sigh.
"Yeah...me too...just don't tell her that."
Nick noticed how one of Trisha's ears suddenly went straight up, the bunny glancing over in Nick's direction with a playful smirk.
"So I am guessing you have arrived at Lookout Point?"
"Yes ma'am," Nick said, returning to the task at paw. "Not a very original name."
"Says the mammal who named a fire that started in July the June Fire."
"I thought it was romantic."
"It was Nick," Judy replied in a dreamlike state. "Just next time, maybe send flowers instead."
"Why not both?"
"A flaming bouquet sounds like something Trisha would do."
"Oh gosh," Nick said as his eyes went wide in fear. "I am turning into her."
"That's the last thing this forest needs, two Trishas."
Nick took a second to glance over at the other mammals.
Clive, Al, and Debbie had all made their way to the edge of the parking lot and were admiring the view. Debbie's ears flicked slightly and she glanced over at Nick who immediately looked back at the bus.
"I better get going Nick, since you all are getting close I need to make sure I am ready for your arrival."
"I am sure the camp looks great Carrots."
"Oh yeah, the camp too."
"Getting all guessied up for your favorite ranger?"
"Well I always want to look good for Trisha," Judy began. Nick realizing too late he had walked right into that one. "But I..well..umm..well you will see."
Nick raised a brow as he looked down at his walkie talkie. He could tell Judy was up to something. Even over the radio, he detected an odd tone. The same one she had when she was scheming.
"What are you up to?"
"You will see," Judy responded with a hesitant tone. "I'll see you soon Nick."
While Nick would have liked to try and get more out of Judy he could tell his bunny had no intention of budging.
"Alright, we will see you soon Carrots," Nick said with a smile.
With that Nick clipped his walkie to his belt and trotted over to his fellow park employees.
Trisha noticed her fellow ranger approaching and turned to meet him.
"Thought we would give them a few more minutes of enjoying the view before we start the hike."
"Sounds like a-" Nick began.
"Oh and only step where I step," Trisha said with an innocent smile that didn't fool Nick for a second.
"What did you do?" Nick asked as he stared down at the bunny.
"Noooooothing," Trisha said as she batted her eyelashes.
"We need all three of them to make it to Camp and back Trisha," Nick reminded his fellow ranger.
"They will."
"In one piece," Nick added.
"They will!" Trisha said as she waved her arms around. "Geeze, not very trusting are we."
Nick continued to stare at the bunny who tried her best to keep a neutral expression on her face but she soon started to falter.
"Stop," Trisha said as she cracked a smile.
Nick remained silent and continued to stare.
"Stop!" Trisha laughed.
The fox didn't even blink.
"Oh my gosh stop!" Trisha blurted out as she slapped Nick on the arm as she walked around him.
Nick looked up at the ram and the mountain lion who would be driving the ATV with everyone's supplies.
"How much you want to bet she booby-trapped the path?" Nick asked.
The ram let out a snort and shook his head.
"As long as it is your route and not mine," The mountain lion said with a laugh.
"Gee thanks," Nick chuckled before turning around to watch Trisha saunter over to the others.
"Sorry the view is a little cloud covered," Nick overheard Trisha say as she approached the VIMs.
With a sigh, Nick decided it would be best if he joined the others. He gave a casual salute to the other park employees and then made his way over to the stone wall that overlooked the valley.
"It's quite alright," Clive said as he snapped another picture or two. "Even with the rain, it is a truly beautiful sight."
"Has a kind of solemn serenity," Al said as he snapped a picture with his cellphone.
"Won't lie, it's better than the views back in the city," Debbie admitted as she leaned on the stone wall and looked out at the views.
Nick felt a slight pang of regret at Debbie's words. This whole time she had been tormenting him and running through his mind and yet it was moments like this that reminded him she was still a fox with her own feelings.
Sure she had done him very wrong but still.
Debbie glanced over at Nick and licked one of her canines as she stared hungrily at the ranger.
Ok nevermind, she is still pretty dangerous.
"That's the Wewa spirit," Trisha said with an upbeat attitude. "I have to say I really appreciate that kind of spirit. Out here we simply have to roll with whatever nature throws at us."
"I have been living in the rainforest district in Zootopia for a few years now," Al began. "It rains every 46 minutes."
Trisha, who seemed to be the only one unfamiliar with the city, tilted her head in confusion.
"We have a fake rain system set up you see," Al continued. "I am so used to living in a place that controls nature that it is actually quite refreshing to be in a place where you cannot predict things but simply have to accept them as is."
"Kind of a bonus selling point I would say," Clive said with a smirk before glancing over at Debbie. "Think that would go nicely in a travel brochure."
Debbie gave the armadillo a smile before glancing back at Nick and Trisha.
"Well speaking of selling points," Trisha said as she looked back at the forest. "Think its time we get you all to Wewa so you can start your camping experience."
"Got my rain boots," Al said as he lifted one of his legs and gave his paw a wiggle.
Everyone shared a laugh at the koala's antics before Trisha went into ranger mode.
"So as a reminder, keep to the path and listen to Nick and my instructions at all times," Trisha said in a rather professional manner as she adjusted the straps to her hiking pack. "Even though this should be a simple hike we always treat the forest with respect and understand there are variables out of our control."
"Hope you have your affairs in order," Clive whispered to Al who gave the old armadillo a playful shove.
With that the group bid farewell to the other park employees who started to load everyone's gear and supplies up onto the ATV's trailer.
Nick had been slightly concerned with the hike. Mainly because of the weather. However, he was pleasantly surprised when they started along the well-traveled path. Thanks to the thick overgrowth and the large pine trees they were shielded from the drizzle coming from above. Instead, the group was greeted by the forest with a fine cool mist that hung over the path like a fog.
"Truly stunning," Clive mentioned as he raised his camera.
"Why thank you, Clive," Trisha said with a playful wink. "I put my best hat on for you all today and everything."
The armadillo roared with laughter at the flirty doe before aiming his camera at Trisha who was more than happy to strike a pose.
"Would you mind if I got one of you and Ranger Wilde?" Clive asked before looking at Nick. "It is a great photo opportunity after all."
Nick had to admit the forest did make a beautiful backdrop. There was only one downside to this and that was a certain mischievous ranger.
Trisha began to wiggle in place slowly as she raised her paws at Nick and signaled for him to join her next to a moss-covered boulder.
Nick looked at the bunny and did his best to hide a smirk but failed miserably.
The two stood side by side, Trisha closing the gap rather quickly, and waited for Clive to take a picture.
"Great," The armadillo began as he began to lower his camera.
"Wait!" Trisha said eagerly as she undid her backpack and looked at Nick. "Lose the gear."
Nick gave Trisha a curious look but followed the doe's instructions and undid his backpack. Trisha then hopped up onto the moss-covered rock and beamed at Nick.
"Look back at them."
Nick rolled his eyes and let out a sigh, already knowing what Trisha was up to. He knew though that it was best to just let her have her way.
The doe hopped from the moss-covered rock and onto Nick's back, wrapping her arms around the fox's neck as her legs jutted out on his sides. Nick reached up and looped his arms around Trisha's ankles so she wouldn't have as much trouble staying where she was.
Al let out a chuckle as Clive excitedly raised his camera.
"Wonderful!" The shutterbug announced.
Trisha leaned close to Nick and pressed her cheek to his as she smiled brightly at the camera.
Just before the picture was taken Nick chanced a glance at Debbie and was rather pleased with what he saw.
A look of jealousy was on the vixen's muzzle.
Why is she so jealous? Its only Trisha. She should be jealous of Judy.
That's when it hit him.
She isn't jealous of Trisha...She's jealous of me.
She had lied and left him behind just a year before all this. Now the fates had brought them back to face one another and here he was. He wasn't some broken and depressed fox.
He had a new life.
Not only that but he had a happy new life.
One that she couldn't take from him, no matter how much she had tried lately.
All the teasing, flirting, and manipulation meant nothing and it was moments like this that proved it.
As Nick looked at Clive's camera he didn't have to force a smile. The one gracing his muzzle was genuine in nature. He even leaned against Trisha's cheek as the camera flashed.
"Got it," Clive said as he inspected the image on the camera's screen.
Trisha hopped down from Nick and hurried over to inspect the picture.
"Awww, I look so cute," Trisha said with a smirk. She then looked over at Nick. "You look ok I guess."
Nick just chuckled as he too came over to inspect the picture.
He had to admit it was a nice picture.
"Think Judy would love this one?" Trisha asked.
"Well, of course, it has her favorite ranger," Nick said with a smug smile. "Oh and you too."
Trisha's eyes twitched for a moment as she slowly looked up at the fox.
"Excuse me?"
"Shall we carry on?" Nick asked as he scooped up his backpack and tossed it over his shoulder.
"That's right, you better run," Trisha grumbled as she gathered her own backpack. She then glanced at the others who all had bemused looks on their faces. "Follow Nick, I'll bring up the rear."
Nick was a little hesitant at first and turned to look back at Trisha who stuck out her tongue.
"Just follow that path goofball, when you get to a little fork keep right."
Nick nodded and continued with leading the others.
For the most part, Trisha had been correct when she said it was going to be an easy hike. If anything it was really just a wet nature hike.
When they reached a small fork Nick followed Trisha's instructions and kept to the right. He hadn't actually needed the direction as it turned out since the path to the left seemed small and actually joined the main path again after just a few yards.
Nick continued down the path for a few more steps before he heard Trisha let out a surprised noise at the end of the group.
"Oh wow," The bunny said getting everyone's attention. The bunny was looking off to the left down the smaller path and pointed. "It's a Brewer's lupine."
"A what?" Debbie asked, the vixen having been just in front of the bunny.
"Come here," Trisha said excitedly as she led the vixen down the other path. "Its a flower, its kinda rare to see them in this region, especially this time of year."
Nick suddenly tensed up as he watched Debbie led down the other path by his fellow ranger.
What is she planning?
Clive joined the ladies as Al and Nick remained on the main path.
"Right here you see," Trisha began to explain as she led Debbie to a small flower that had a series of white pods. "It's dormant right now but when it opens the interior are these beautiful purple...oh look some are open."
Please don't let it be poisonous….
While the thought of Trisha leading Debbie into some kind of trap was amusing Nick was still worried about what the vixen might do to get back at them all.
"Oh, that is...umm..pretty?" Debbie said as she looked at the flower.
Debbie had never really been one for flowers. She looked at the plant for a moment before standing up.
Clive, however, reached the flower and raised his camera up, snapping a few pictures.
"Oh get one of me in there too," Trisha teased as she leaned close to the flower and made a peace sign with her paw.
Debbie watched the photoshoot for a moment but then became noticeably bored. She turned and continued down the left path, it was plain to see it would connect back to the main.
However, something had not been plain to see was a small hole.
Debbie seemed to shrink just a foot and let out a surprised yelp.
All eyes went to her and Nick kicked into ranger mode.
"You ok?" He asked as he moved towards the vixen.
Had Debbie looked just behind her she would have seen a rather smug bunny who took a moment to appreciate the situation.
"There is a hole filled with mud!" Debbie groaned.
"Oh geez, so sorry Deb," Trisha said as she hurried over. "Some of these paths have divets like that. Are you ok?"
"It's up my leg!" Debbie groaned.
She was obviously not in any pain but seemed rather annoyed.
"Do you need any help, my dear?" Clive asked as he waddled over.
"No, I am fine," The vixen grumbled. "Help me out, Nick."
As much as it pained him Nick couldn't just leave Debbie stuck.
Well maybe for a bit...no! Now we are thinking like Trisha!
Nick trotted over and held out a paw which Debbie took. With a firm tug, he managed to free Debbie, her normally lovely russet leg was now a dark brown from the mud that coated her leg.
"Ewwwww," Debbie mumbled.
"There is a picnic table ahead," Trisha advised. "Let's get you to is so you can clean up."
Nick did his best to keep a straight face but when his eyes met Trisha's he noticed a slight wink sent his way which made him smile.
As long as it was just mud… guess there is no harm.
It only took them a minute to get around a bend where an overgrown picnic table had been left just off the path.
Thanks to the mud Debbie was walking a little funny so it took them an extra minute or two.
"Here have a seat," Trisha instructed, sounding like a professional ranger which made Nick suddenly concerned.
There is no way she has more traps.
Debbie did as she was told and sat down on some leaves that covered the bench.
Trisha set her bag down and that's when Nick noticed how the bunny's lips curled.
Oh my gosh! Really?
Nick started to look around nervously, worried some kind of giant log contraption would fall from the trees. Or maybe an avalanche of pinecones would come pouring down on them all.
To Nick's surprise though nothing really happened.
Trisha pulled a towel from her hiking pack and held it out to Debbie who took it.
"Thank you, Trisha."
"Of course camper, sorry its only bunny sized, Delta won't let me borrow his after the cape incident."
"So you and Delta," Debbie began as the others got settled.
"He puts up with me," Trisha said playfully.
As the girls chatted Clive took a moment to survey their surroundings. Al meanwhile was adjusting his rainboots.
"If you don't mind me asking, is that common around here?" Debbie asked as she wiped some of the mud from her leg.
"Is what common?" Trisha asked.
"Well...you being a bunny and him being.."
"Stupid?" Trisha asked playfully.
Debbie glanced at the bunny and let the smallest of smiles appear on her muzzle.
As Nick watched he felt this whole conversation was just weird. Why was Debbie being so nice? Of course, the better question was why was Trisha?
"Out here it doesn't matter what kind of species a mammal is," Trisha said as she put her backpack on. "We only care about their character."
"Must be why Clive gets along with everyone so well," Al mumbled.
"Because I am a real character?" Clive asked with a chuckle.
"You know it."
"I'll second that," Nick joined in, getting a laugh from Clive.
"Alright campers, unless anyone needs to rest longer I think we best continue on, Judy promised me a nice breakfast when we get to Wewa," Trisha said as she secured her backpack and took a few steps forward. "Not sure what you lot are eating though."
There was a chuckle from the group before everyone gathered together once more.
They made it a few minutes down the path before Al cleared his throat.
"Uhh, Debbie, you have something on your...well..your rear," Al said with some hesitation.
"Checking out the tail?" Debbie asked in a flirty tone.
"More like the leaves stuck to your butt," Clive said bluntly.
"What?!" Debbie asked as she looked over her shoulder and down at her rear. "Ugh...where did those come from?"
Debbie began to reach down before Trisha piped up.
"Wait!" The bunny said as she hurried over.
"What? Oh my gosh, what? Is it poisonous?!"
Nick's eyes widened as he began to wonder if Trisha would go that far.
"No its not anything dangerous," Trisha said as she inspected the vixen's rear. "Its actually good luck?"
"Really?" Debbie asked as she lowered her brows.
"Yeah," Trisha said in a rather convincing tone. "If you leave those on for the whole day and then toss them in the campfire tonight you will be gifted with good luck while at camp."
"Seriously?"
"It's a fun little tradition at Wewa, trust me."
Debbie groaned as she looked at her rear once more before looking at Clive, "You going to want a picture of this too?"
Clive eagerly stepped up and nodded, "I mean if you wouldn't mind."
Debbie sighed and moved her tail so the armadillo had a better view. He took one picture of Debbie's rear before Trisha playfully posed and gave a thumbs up and winked at the camera, leaning close to the vixen's tail.
It was at this point Nick had to put a paw to his muzzle to keep the laughter from bursting out.
The group proceeded with their journey.
Al took a moment to walk beside the vixen in the group, "From how things are going you may actually need some good luck."
"Guess the forest just doesn't like me," Debbie joked but Nick noticed how the vixen looked straight ahead at the small bunny now leading their group.
Nick suddenly became rather worried. Debbie obviously had a feeling she was being tricked. If Trisha did anything else then she may give herself away.
The fox tried to think of a way to warn his fellow ranger without giving himself away.
As they continued their hike down the worn-down path they approached a small wooden sign. Upon closer inspection, Nick noticed it had a single word written on it just above a directional arrow.
Wewa.
"Almost there," Trisha announced as she reached over and gave the sign a light tap.
"Oh geez have we really been walking that long?" Clive asked as he checked his watch.
Nick was equally surprised, not realizing just how much time had passed since they started their little trek.
"Time flies when you're having fun," Trisha said over her shoulder. "And I am super fun so it goes even faster."
The bunny then stepped to the side of the path and smiled at the others, signaling that they should continue on.
Debbie looked a little nervous but seemed to find a solution. She slowed down so Clive would be in front of her as they continued down the path.
Once the others had passed Trisha hopped back onto the path so she and Nick were walking side by side.
"You realize if you have anything else planned then Clive will be the one to get it," Nick whispered low enough for only the bunny to hear.
"Nick I don't have the faintest idea what you are talking about," Trisha said with a mischievous smile. "Besides, I think the forest has had its fun for now."
"Well tell the forest that while all of this was appreciated I didn't ask for any of this."
"Sometimes when you don't even ask, the forest just wants to protect you anyways."
Nick rolled his eyes before looking back at his friend, "Well I did enjoy the part with the leafs."
"Honeydew has that effect, plus it stays that way for days," Trisha said with an evil smirk.
The rest of the hike was uneventful. They occasionally slowed down for Clive to take a picture or for Al to adjust his boots.
For the most part, though everyone seemed to be eager to get to camp and see what was waiting for them.
Nick most of all.
Slowly and steadily the forest seemed to spread out. The trees growing a little farther from one another. Eventually, they cleared out entirely and revealed a small field.
"Well would ya look at that," Clive said as he looked straight ahead.
The path they were on seemed to end when they reached a field. Another small wooden sign had been placed at the edge of the path. Just beyond the end of the path sat a series of wooden structures.
Welcome to Wewa.
Trisha unclipped her radio from her belt and keyed up her mic.
"Wewa this is lucky 7.
"Go ahead 7," Came Judy's voice sounding playfully professional.
"Got some rowdy campers for ya here, should be at the main hall in 5."
"Good to hear, tell Two Forks I can't wait to see him."
Trisha glanced up at Nick and wiggled her brows before making a playful kissy face that Nick ignored. Once done with her transmission Trisha clipped the radio to her belt once more.
"The main entrance is actually on the road," Trisha began to explain to the others as she picked up the pace so she could lead the group. "This is considered an unofficial entrance."
"Sneaking us through the back door eh?" Clive asked with a smile at the ranger who grinned.
"Only way I could get a mammal like you in Clive."
"Oh I love this one," Clive chuckled as he gave Al a nudge.
"Now Judy will give you all the grand tour a little later, for now, how about we check in with our lovely hostess at the main building."
Nick felt his heart start to pound a little harder.
While he was excited to see Judy and hold her once more he also knew this would be a bit of an awkward reunion. Mostly thanks to a certain nature covered vixen.
"Please tell me they have showers," Debbie grumbled.
"Lucky for you they do," Trisha began. "As long as you don't mind lukewarm water."
"Anything to get this mud off."
"But leave the leaves," Clive reminded the vixen who rolled her eyes but nodded.
As they approached Wewa Nick took a moment to study his surroundings. When he first heard of the camp he had expected a series of small cabins and that was it. He was rather surprised at the large complex and how spread out it all was.
"They have lots of different indoor and outdoor activities here at Wewa," Trisha began as they entered the perimeter of the buildings. "Got an arts and crafts cabin, a woodshop, nature museum, even got a movie theater."
Al let out a whistle as they passed a large wooden cabin with a brightly colored sign on it that read "Arts and Crafts".
"Of course my favorite is the main building which acts as a kind of social space, meeting area, and my personal favorite mess hall."
As they came around a corner they were met with a series of applauds and greetings.
Everyone who had come to prepare and work at the camp was waiting for the new arrivals at the entrance to the main hall which sat on top of a raised cement and rock platform.
"Oh wonderful," Clive said and immediately raised his camera and snapped a picture at the welcoming party.
Al and Debbie both remained silent but grinned and even waived at the park department mammals.
Nick spotted Judy standing at the bottom of the stairs.
How is it she got even more beautiful?
Their eyes met and he noticed a light blush go up his bunny's ears.
Judy straightened her parks department shirt and strolled forward along with a silver vixen Nick recognized as a fellow park supervisor.
Trisha began to step to the side and smiled at Judy as the bunny strolled past and right up to the VIMs.
"It's so good to finally meet you all muzzle to muzzle," Judy began with a bubbly smile.
"So we finally meet the famous Judy," Al said with a smile as he extended a paw. "Al."
"Clive, we spoke on the phone," Clive said as he gave a wave before he snapped another picture.
"And you must be Debbie," Judy said as she looked up at the vixen who put on a smile of her own.
"So good to finally meet you, Judy," Debbie said as she extended a paw which Judy bravely took without even flinching.
Oh, gods…
It had finally happened. Judy and Debbie were now face to face.
"Alright foods up!" Someone shouted from the doorway to the main hall. "Come and get it campers!"
"Oh perfect timing," Clive said as he patted his stomach. He glanced at Judy and smiled. "It is so nice to make your acquaintance Judy, I am looking forward to talking to you more about..well..everything."
"Looking forward to it Clive," Judy said in a friendly manner. "Now you must be a bit hungry after your hike. I had Cookie whip up something for a late breakfast."
"Sounds good to me," Al said as he headed towards the main hall.
"Will you be joining us?" Debbie asked her muzzle curling into a smile that made Nick's skin crawl.
"In a few minutes," Judy said sweetly, seeming to be unphased by the vixen which Nick knew would just tick Debbie off even more. "I just have to talk to my rangers real quick and then I will be happy to meet up with you all."
"Yes of course," Debbie said, hiding the annoyance in her voice rather well. "Would hate to get in the way of your little...reunion."
With that the VIMs started to head towards the main mess hall where they were greeted by the rest of the park staff.
Nick watched as a certain pain in his side sauntered away before looking down at Judy and smiling.
Judy however looked oddly nervous. Which was odd since the hard part was now over.
The small storm gray bunny took in a deep breath before looking over at Trisha and giving the brown bunny a nod.
Trisha wiggled excitedly as she gave Judy a nod before turning to Nick.
"Get ready to be embarrassed," Trisha grinned as she reached up and unclipped Nick's backpack.
"What?" Nick asked in slight confusion as his fellow ranger took away his hiking kit.
Trisha tossed the bag aside and then smiled back at Judy, "All set stinky."
Judy took a deep breath before glancing over at the silver vixen who had joined them, the canine giving Judy a firm nod of encouragement.
"What's going on?" Nick asked as he glanced at the ladies.
Judy took several steps forward and reached up to Nick, grabbing a tuft of his ranger shirt and pulling him down.
It was at that moment he smelt her. Normally the bunny would have had a flowery scent mixed with her own lovely odor. Today though she smelt different.
This wasn't to say she smelt bad, far from it, she seemed even more intoxicating to Nick than she ever had been before.
Judy had her natural odor about her which told Nick she hadn't really bathed in a day or two, or maybe even longer.
With how Judy had pulled at him Nick needed to take a knee and lean down slightly so he was eye to eye with his bunny.
"Well hello there," Nick said as he looked into the pair of purple shimmering eyes before him.
"You know I love you," Judy began which made the fur on Nick's arms stand up.
What is she up to?
"I love you too Carrots."
"You remember what you said during the June fire?" Judy asked as she put her paws on Nick's cheeks.
"Uhhh….pinecone?" Nick asked as he gave Judy a weak smile.
"You said you don't know what tomorrow holds, you said you don't care where we ended up as long as we ended up together," Judy continued, a tear rolling down her cheek.
Nick reached up and gently placed a paw on top of Judy's.
There were two sets of "awwws" just to the side of Nick and Judy which made Nick slowly look over, only to have Judy snap his attention back to her.
"Do you still mean all of that?"
"Of course," Nick said in a low voice.
"No matter what happens you want to be with me. No matter where we go or what we do."
Nick smiled and nodded, "As long as its with you Carrots."
Judy drew in a deep breath before she leaned forward and pressed her lips to Nick's.
While Nick wasn't normally a big fan of public displays of affection like this he had missed Judy so much he didn't mind at all. Especially the gagging noises coming from a certain blue-eyed trouble maker.
This however was just the start.
Judy pulled away from the kiss and before Nick could react the bunny used her paws to push Nick's head upwards.
Nick was about to ask what in the world Judy was up to until he felt it.
A small rubbing on his neck just beneath his muzzle.
It astounded him just how soft Judy still felt as she rubbed herself against Nick. He managed to glance down and realized something.
This wasn't just some affectionate nuzzle. Judy was rubbing the space between her chin and neck right against Nick's.
Does she know what she is doing?!
There was a slight gasp from one of the ladies beside Nick but he was too focused on what Judy was doing.
The way Nick felt pressure on his neck told him that what Judy was doing was deliberate. The bunny knew exactly what she was doing.
The fox's instincts took over as his mate marked him. He pressed himself against Judy and made his own slight motion as he returned her mark with one of his own.
The small gray bunny continued the motion for a few more seconds before she pulled away, her ears were a bright rosy red on the inside and she was breathing heavily as she looked right up at Nick.
Nick opened his eyes and saw Judy's eyes shining, the unshed tears of happiness at having the bond returned.
Nick was speechless as to what had just happened. Apparently so was Judy whose breathing seemed labored with a hint of hesitation. She then looked over at the silver vixen.
"Did I do it right Kris?"
The vixen grinned and gave Judy a confident nod before giving the bunny a thumbs up.
Trisha was grinning from ear to ear as she looked right at Judy and then Nick. She then glanced up at Kris and gave the vixen a tug on the sleeve.
"So can you tell?" Trisha asked eagerly.
Kris took in a deep breath through her nose and closed her eyes before nodding once more. She then glanced down at the eager brown bunny, "Oh yeah, you can definitely tell they are bond mates."
Hey there Firewatchers!
It's been a bit I know. Life has really been a rollercoaster lately. I am still around though, just kinda slow on updates.
I was recently asked if I have abandoned stories. The answer is no, as of right now all my works here on fanfic that have not been completed will eventually get some kind of ending. I am just having trouble getting around to writing them. Thank you for your patience though.
So what did ya think of this chapter? This one broke my original outline because it just felt right to have things go this way instead.
Special thanks to Fox in the henhouse friend for his continued help with my work. Yes, he is still around. ;P
Hope to get more work done for you all the enjoy soon.
Pinecone!
-Blue