24: From The ashes

XxX

After some consideration, I've decided that the title of the story will stay exactly as it is now, with the new morphing from the old. While the original title fit the story's beginning, the new title reflects the changes in life that define us all. Enjoy the journey, because after all, Life IS a Highway… it's not about the destination, it's all about the journey. So, without further ado, here's more of the journey, enjoy…

XxX

As the entertainment gets going full swing, Nick gets an unexpected phone call.

"Yea, what's up Midnight? It's kinda late to be …"

Listening intently, Nick's muzzle changes from neutral, to concerned to pure outrage.

Judy can only wonder what the conversation is about, since the music from the stage is making it impossible to listen in to anything other than Nick.

"Well just … shit. Are the cops there yet? They are? And Bogo's in charge? We'll be there in a few hours, however long it takes us to get there. Sit tight and keep me posted, ok? Thanks, bye."

Grabbing Judy's paw, Nick heads straight to where Bonnie and Stu are sitting.

"I'm sorry to have to leave so soon, but Judy and I have got to go back to Zootopia immediately."

"What on earth has happened?" asks Stu only seconds before Judy or Bonnie can.

"There's been a bombing in the city."

With everyone sitting in stunned silence, Nick continues "It was the shop. Someone tried to blow up the shop. We're heading back right now. We're leaving everything here that we brought with us since we've plenty of clothes and everything else back at the house. Everyone else needs to just stay here, at least for now. Please."

With that, Nick and Judy sprint for the pickup at a dead run and head back to Zootopia…

Noticing the consternation on Nick's muzzle as they speed down the highway towards Zootopia, Judy asks Nick:

"Nick …"

Nick takes a few seconds before answering "…Hmmm?"

"Would you like me to drive? I know you've got a lot on your mind and I don't want you to be distracted."

Glancing briefly at Judy and quickly giving her a rueful smile "I really appreciate the thought Fluff, but if I don't concentrate on driving, I have no idea where my mind will go. You know I don't mind your driving, I really don't, but I really need to do this ok? Please don't be upset."

Knowing Nick as well as she does, all Judy can do is nod, kiss him lightly on the cheek and answer "Ok, no problem."

After about a very quiet hour of driving, Judy asks "Nick, what are we gonna do?"

Taking a deep breath and exhaling slowly, Nick spares a quick glance at his bunny and answers "I really don't know right now Judy" using her given name instead of one of her nicknames instantly lets Judy know the seriousness of his thoughts.

"I guess we'll have to see how bad the damage is once we get there…."

After a short pause, Nick expands on his thoughts "Truth be told, I'm not worried about us at all. We've got plenty in the bank to get along without the shop."

Noticing the questioning look on her muzzle he continues "I'm worried about the crew. There are a lot of mammals counting on the shop as a steady place of employment. Families are counting on the shop, on me, on us. To be perfectly honest, I'm worried, truly worried about the future of the shop."

The remaining drive to Zootopia and to the shop passes in relative silence, with Judy dozing fitfully occasionally.

Arriving at the home of 'Wilde Ride Customs', Nick and Judy are greeted with a myriad of flashing red and blue lights. A multitude of police cars, two fire engines, several EMT vehicles and an EOD (Explosive Ordinance Disposal-bomb disposal) truck totally surround the building.

As Nick begins to drive slowly past the front of the devastated building, Bogo motions them through the barricade tape.

After parking and exiting the vehicle, Nick and Judy are totally devastated by what they see.

Almost the entire front of the building including the majority of the office is gone. Brickwork, wood and glass litter the entire area.

A totally stunned Judy can only go back and sit in the cab of the pick-up in shock while taking in the enormity of the devastation. In the meantime, Nick is talking to Chief Bogo.

"To begin with" starts Nick "was anyone injured or killed? My primary concern is for my employees. Everything else is covered by insurance, but my mammals are my primary concern right now."

"Even though I can't tell you a lot since the investigation is ongoing" Bogo offers cautiously "my officers and detectives have informed me that there have been no casualties, either injuries or deaths. None."

Breathing a small sigh of relief, Nick notices Midnight being interviewed by what could only be several of Bogo's detectives.

"Thanks Bogo, it's appreciated. Are your mammals about through with my employee? I need a word or two with him."

"No problem. I believe that McNally and Fontain are about through with your mammal."

Motioning to his detective, Bogo gets the signal that the detectives are just finishing taking Midnight's statement.

Trailed by Judy, Nick approaches Midnight and grabs him in a tight 'male hug', and breathes a final sigh of relief.

"Ronnie" begins Nick, shaking visibly, shocking Midnight and Judy alike "I'm so glad that you're ok!"

Hugging back, Midnight reassures Nick "I'm fine boss, I'm fine. It was close, but other than needing a fresh pair of drawers, no damage done."

With that remark came a bit of tight laughter, and at least a slight tension release that everyone was in desperate need of.

"Ronnie?" asks Judy in wonderment.

"Ronald James N'guma … the Third, at your service ma'am" replies Midnight bowing and showing a shy grin.

"The third?" Judy adds, smiling.

"Sorry Squeak, that's all you get"

Breaking the moment, Nick asks Midnight "So, tell me what you can about what happened…"

"Ok, here goes" begins Midnight, huffing a bit "I was in the shop working late, trying to get a bit of a jump on the rebuild on that old '64 Chevelle. After getting my initial parts list together, I locked up and headed towards home for a late supper. About the time I got to the new Hopps Express® station on Pleasant street, I heard the first explosion-"

"Wait" interrupts Nick incredulously "the first one? How many were there?"

"Like I told the detective, it was actually kinda hard to tell. Three, maybe four. By the time I got turned around and back to the shop, I basically found what you see here now. I called the cops first, then you. According to the detective, that's all I can tell you for now. Everything else you're gonna need to get through Bogo. Sorry."

"That's ok old friend. Were good. I'm gonna see if I can get more out of Bogo before we head home. Speaking of which, you need to get home yourself. I'm sure Nadine and the kits are worried sick, so get the hell out of here."

"Sure thing boss. Umm…"

"Don't worry, we'll figure something out. I know that we're supposed to head out to the Pines Ridge reservation tomorrow, but that's on permanent hold until we get things straightened out here. Go home Midnight."

As Midnight leaves for home, Nick and Judy head towards the police command post to see what information they can get from Bogo.

Observing the couple approach, Bogo gets set for what he's sure about what will be a less than pleasant conversation.

When Nick and Judy get within normal earshot, Bogo holds up a hoof and begins "Nick, Judy, I know what you're going to ask, and I'm probably going to disappoint you. I've already told Nick that the investigation is ongoing, but I will give you what I can without compromising the investigation…ok?"

Judy looks to Nick who wears a deep frown, but nods slightly to Bogo.

Continuing, Bogo gives them what little information he can.

"To begin with, I need you to promise me that what I tell you goes no farther. You can't tell anyone. Not your employees, not your mom" looking directly at Nick "No one … got that?"

Seeing both nod the affirmative, Bogo again continues "From preliminary reports from the EOD mammals, it seems like the explosives that were used were homemade, and there were four used. Yes, we actually have some paw prints and tire tracks that may or may not be the suspect's and their vehicle. We do have actual leads, so please let us do our jobs, ok?'
'My officers will stay on-site until my detectives and EOD have conducted their investigations, then you'll be allowed inside. That's all I can give you at this time. Satisfied?"

"Not totally" answers Nick honestly "but I guess we'll have to be, at least for now. Thanks Bogo, we really appreciate what you did give us. Please keep us up to date as conditions allow."

"I can do that Nick. Now, go home and get some rest, I can tell you're worn out. Come back in the morning, we should be finished here by then. I've already arranged for a structural engineer to come by sometime tomorrow morning to appraise the condition of the building."

Shaking Bogo's hoof, Nick and Judy head home to get some well-deserved rest.

After a short and fitful attempt at sleeping, then returning to the shop at around nine o'clock the next morning, Nick and Judy are only mildly surprised to see Josh, Duane, Skye and Tiff already there, with Midnight and Shirly close behind them.

"I guess someone needs to call doctor Cotton and give her and Michael the bad news" begins Nick, addressing Judy. "There's no way we're going anywhere until we get this cleared up. Do you want do or should I?"

"I guess it really needs to be me" returns Judy "I'm sure everyone will understand due to the circumstances."

While Judy is speaking with doctor Cotton, explaining all that has happened, Nick sees the building inspector enter the cordoned off area.

After conferring with the few remaining EOD techs, the elderly giraffe approaches Nick and introduces himself.

"Mister Wilde?" he begins, extending a hoof "My name is Fudd, Elmer Fudd, but mammals just call me 'Stilts', not sure why though" he adds with a wry smile and wink.

Returning the pawshake, Nick adds a shallow, polite smile of his own.

"Nick Wilde. This is my wife Judy. The rest of the mammals here are either in-laws, outlaws or both."

"I'm sorry we have to meet under these circumstances, but I'll try to make this as quick and thorough as possible. So, if you'll excuse me, I'll just get right to it."

With that, mister Fudd cautiously enters the shattered building.

After roughly three hours of carefully and thoroughly inspecting every nook and cranny of the devastated building, mister Fudd returns to the assembled crowd, which by now has grown to be quite large as many of the shop's employees along with some of their families, have arrived at the scene to learn the fate of the building and possibly their livelihood.

With a very unpleasant look on his muzzle, mister Fudd addresses Nick "Are you sure you want to hear this with all of these mammals present?"

"Yes sir I am" replies Nick forcefully. "All of these mammals are my employees and their families. They have every right to hear what your decision is since it affects each and every one of them, be it good or bad. Just give us the truth, and we'll sort everything out from there."

Drawing a deep breath, mister Fudd delivers the bad news "I'm sorry to say that the majority of the building is structurally unsound. It will be my recommendation that at least the entire front two thirds of the building be demolished as soon as possible, no later than the next three to five days. The sooner the better, because if a storm of any severity would happen to come up, the entire thing could come down on its own."

"And what part of the building would you deem reasonably safe at this time?" inquired Nick, already hopefully knowing the answer.

"That would be the warehouse sir" mister Fudd answered. "It is a much newer addition and was reinforced with steel beams when constructed, thereby rendering it much sturdier than the building proper."

"Will it be possible for us to move what we can salvage to the warehouse section for temporary storage?" asks Nick hopefully.

"Absolutely, yes" came the answer.

"Ok, thank you sir for all the information."

While the inspector returns to his car, Nick makes a call to his insurance agent.

Surprisingly, the agent picks up on the third ring.

"Hello Mike?" asks Nick.

"Yea Nick, I've actually been expecting this call after hearing about it on the news. Have the police and building inspector finished yet?"

"The inspector just released the building to us but the cops are still here. Would it be possible for you to come and do your thing so we can get stuff moved out of the danger zone as soon as possible? I really don't want or need to lose any more than I have to. Plus, I'm sure that the more we can save, the less your company will have to pay for."

"You got that right. Listen, give me about thirty minutes or so to get there. Then I can take a bunch of pictures and nose around a bit to assess your actual losses and try to figure out the projected amount that we'll have to write you a check for. Is that agreeable with you?"

"Yea, no problem. The sooner the better, I don't want to drag this out any longer than I have too. I've got mammals that need to get to work."

"I'll be heading your way in just a minute then, see you soon. Bye."

Nick then heads over to the police command post to speak with the few remaining mammals still on duty.

"Can anyone here tell me when my employees can enter the building to start clearing the salvageable items? My insurance agent will be here within the half hour, so I need to know if we can get started with salvaging what we can."

A lioness wearing tactical garb with the name 'Hunter' on it answers "Mister Wilde is it?" seeing him nod is enough for her to continue. Chief Bogo said for me to inform you that once the building has been inspected and your insurance agent arrives, I can turn it over to you. We'll be out of your fur then, ok?"

"That's fine officer … Hunter is it? Thanks for keeping an eye on it for us. It means a lot to me and my employees. If it's allowed by Bogo, I'll reserve a room for you and your crew with all that you can eat and drink at the Icehouse."

Smiling at the fox, sergeant Hunter replies "That's very generous of you sir. If it clears with Bogo, we'll be happy to take you up on your generous offer. Thanks."

Shaking the officer's paw, Nick rejoins Judy and the rest of the Wilde Times Custom's crew.

"I talked to Yvonne and Michael" begins Judy "and they said they understand. Family always comes first, so we're good there. Ooooon the other paw, Josh has even more bad news, as if we really needed any more right now!"

"What could possibly be bad enough that everyone looks even more down that I thought they would be?" asks Nick.

When Judy glances at Josh, Josh picks up his que "I was talking to dad after you guys left and … well … he told me that he may have to sell a lot if not most of the farm."

Mouth agape, Nick is astounded by the news.

"Say what?" he exclaimed loudly.

"Yea, it seems that with so many of the kits like we three seeking lives outside the farm, it looks like he and mom won't have enough help to properly take care of the crops. The farm is so large that it literally takes around two hundred bunnies to plant, cultivate and harvest the crops. He and mom are putting on happy faces, but there's a lot of stress that's evident to all."

"Well just … damn!" was all Nick could say, letting down the tailgate of the pick-up and sitting down with a heavy 'thump'. "First the shop gets destroyed, then the news about your folks, it seems like we just can't catch a break."

"If I may suggest something?" interrupts Midnight "There may be at least a partial solution to Squeak's parent's situation."

With all eyes and ears pointed in Midnight's direction, he expounds on his thoughts "When my father came from the old country, he had been renting land from his landlord. He told me that at first, the rent was more of a share crop arrangement, but when the land owner demanded a higher sum of money for my father to work the land, he and my mother had to leave and come to Zootopia.'
'Could Judy's parents not rent out at least a certain portion of the land at a given price per acre, sell the machinery and just live off of the cash income from the rent and machinery sales?'
'When I was in the Corps" Midnight continues "I had a close friend who was in the JAG section. After he got out, I think he went into corporate law right here in Zootopia. I still have his phone number, and if that's the case, he might be able to help."

As Judy considered Midnight's words, Nick sat up ramrod straight, his eyes shot wide open and his ears shot straight up.

"Midnight, old friend" said Nick 'I think you just solvedall of our problems."

"I get Midnight's idea, and it sounds wonderful on the surface" states Judy "but what the hell are you babbling about it solving ALL of our problems?"

Picking his wife up, kissing her soundly and twirling her around in circles, Nick explains: "Fluff this is a perfect solution all the way around."

Seeing doubtful looks coming from everyone, Nick goes on "Don't you see? Your folks can cash rent the land for a given price per acre and sell the bulk of the equipment just like Midnight suggested. With most of the equipment gone, there'll be a lot of empty barns and equipment sheds, right? I told you after the tornado hit the farm that I'd consider moving the shop to Bunnyburrow, remember?"

Blinking rapidly with her nose twitching a mile a minute and still not quite sure where Nick is going with all of this, Judy still says nothing.

"Fluff, c'mon, really? I know for a fact that you can't possibly be that dense! We'll buy the empty barns and sheds and the land they sit on from your dad with the insurance money and move the shop, lock, stock and barrel to Bunnyburrow. All your folks will have to do is sit back and enjoy life for a while. It's perfect!"

Finally finding her tongue, Judy looks at the rest of the assembled mammals dumbfounded, then back to Nick. "It can't possibly be that simple … can it?"

"I don't see why not!" says Nick forcefully.

Looking around and seeing the faces of all of the assembled mammals slowly begin to understand Nick's plan, Nick has to ask "What about all of you? Is there anyone here who would have a problem living and working in Bunnyburrow? If so, fine, but if not I'll be happy to give you excellent references to anyplace you might want to work at here in the city.'
'Those of you who want to move, I'll gladly pick up your mortgage payments until you can sell or rent your homes here, your moving expenses, rent and the like until you can get settled. Those of you who already own your homes, I'll pay to have them sold."

"And what about living spaces in Bunnyburrow?" asks Judy "I'm not sure how many places there are there for sale or rent."

"Well" pipes up Duane "I know there are a few in the Burrows, and I'm pretty sure that Deerbrook and Podunk will have places for sale or rent. I doubt if it would be much of a drive to the shop from any of those three considering there won't actually be much traffic to fight like in the city."

"I'm all for it" says Charlie, adding his two cents worth. "I'm sure Charolette and the kits would love to be in the country, with all of the fresh air 'n stuff. Not to mention not having to worry about the congestion and pollution that's in the city."

"That's right" agreed Charlie's wife, with their kits jumping up and down agreeing as well. Count us in."

"I'm sure the country air would most likely do me a world of good." pipes up Lefty.

Seeing a dark blue SUV pull into the lot across the street from the shop, Nick interrupts the session, knowing that this is his insurance mammal.

"Ok everybody, Mike's here. I'm gonna walk with him and help with the appraisal. Judy, you and your brothers call your folks and let them know that we at least have a plan in place to help with the farm.'
'Midnight, I know it's Sunday, but will you please try to get ahold of your lawyer buddy and see if this little plan is feasible? If so, have him get this started asap. No matter what the cost, I'll foot the bill."

As Nick leaves to survey the damage with the agent, Judy called her parents for a MuzzleTime connection, with her brothers, their vixens, and Laverne and Shirley listening in.

"Hey mom" begins Judy excitedly opening the conversation on Muzzletime. "is dad handy? We've got some great news for you!"

"Judy" replies a concerned Bonnie "How is everything? Is everyone ok? We were so worried-"

"Everyone here is fine mom. The shop seems to be almost a total loss, but that's not what I'm calling about."

"….. But, how can you sound so happy and tell me that the shop is pretty much a total loss at the same time? I'm afraid I don't understand."

Letting out a short laugh, Judy can't help herself "Listen mom, Duane spilled the beans about yours and dad's concerns about having to sell off a lot of the farm and-"

"How can you possibly look and sound happy about that?" Bonnie asks, more than a little irritated. "Judy, have you been drinking?"

"No mom, of course not" Judy answers, this time not able to stifle her laughter. "We believe that we've come up with a plan so you won't have to sell off any of the farm."

"You've got to be kidding me" Judy hears Stu say angrily in the background as he enters the conversation. "I already told Duane that there needs to be at least two hundred bunnies to keep the farm running, what could you possibly do to help?"

"Dad" says Judy forcefully "will you please calm down for a minute and at least listen to what we've come up with?"

"Fine" grumbles Stu, not at all convinced "go ahead, I'm listening…"

Recounting Midnight's initial suggestion and Nick's expansion of the idea, including the moving of the custom shop to Bunnyburrow, leaves both Bonnie and Stu in a mild state of shock, which is evident by the look on their muzzles and the tone of their voices.

"Well" concludes Judy "what do you think?"

"….. It sounds … wonderful" says Stu "almost too good to be true! Do you really think that it'll work?"

"We really don't know for sure just yet" says Nick joining the conversation just getting back from touring the devastation with his insurance agent "But if it works out, we, and most if not all of my employees are in. The only thing that would derail it all would be you two. What do you think of it?"

Looking at each other, the elder bunnies give each other, then the camera a tentative smile. "I can't think of a reason not to if everything works out on your end like you say." says Stu.

"I have a few small requests, not counting buying the land and some of the outbuildings for the shop" says Nick, a sly smile playing on his lips.

"And what might they be?" asks Stu, not really sure where this might be going.

"First" says Nick "a small piece of land to build a home for Judy and myself close to the main burrow."

"Easily accepted" says a smiling but tearful Bonnie "And the second?"

"That section on the southwest side of the farm that Stu showed me yesterday, the one with all of the blueberry bushes and the huge rhubarb patch. We want to buy that as well. I think Gideon will be able to do wonders making special pies. If we're gonna be that close to home, I'm gonna need a constant supply of your ever so delicious blueberries and that sour-assed rhubarb.'
'Yea, I said home" noting the astonished looks on both Bonnie and Stu's muzzles "Home is where the heart is and that's gonna be home to me, even more than the city ever was. It'll be even more so because I'll be with my extended family and the bunny I've grown to love. So, wadda ya say? Deal?"

"You and your bunch saving the family farm is getting to be a bit of a habit, you know that right?" inquires Stu, more than a little choked up but vastly relieved at the same time.

"We're family, ain't we?" asks Nick "That's what family does."

Bright and early on Monday morning, Stu and Bonnie Hopps. along with Nick and Judy, meet with LT. JG (retired) Eugene Greyson, a gray wolf in his office at City Central.

"So" begins Grayson addressing Stu and Bonnie "Ronald tells me that you're in a bit of a situation with your family farm. Is that correct mister Hopps?"

"Yes sir, that's correct" agreed Stu "Over the last few years it's been increasingly difficult to manage the farm. More and more kits seem to be taking up interests other than farming, and fewer paws means more work for those staying. I, that is we" motioning to Bonnie "are at our wits end. If something isn't done soon, we were afraid that we'll lose everything.'
'Then, Judy and her husband Nick informed us that one of his employees, a mammal they call Midnight, came up with a possible solution. That's why we're here today. Please tell us that this will actually work, please."

"Let me look over some of the numbers that you brought me mister Hopps. Since I am somewhat familiar with the workings of the system that Mister N'guma has brought before me, it shouldn't take too long to figure out whether the suggestion is viable or not. If you would be so kind as to wait for a bit in the atrium, I'll study all of the information available on the subject and be with you shortly. Will that be ok with everyone?"

Looking at one another, everyone seems to be in agreement "That'll be fine I guess" admits Stu as everyone rises and heads to the plush reception area.

While everyone is waiting anxiously for mister Grayson's decision, all are startled somewhat when Judy's cell phone suddenly rings.

"Hello?" answers Judy cautiously, forgetting to look at the caller ID.

"Judy?" comes the voice from the other end of the call "This is Yvonne" answers Doctor Cotton.

"Oh, hey Yvonne" apologizes Judy "Sorry, but we weren't expecting to hear from you so soon, or anyone just yet for that matter. We're currently at an attorney's office trying to get some matters straightened out for my folks's farm and possibly the shop as well."

"Well" continues doctor Cotton "I certainly didn't mean to interrupt anything, but I needed to let you know that Kicking Bird understands your situation and wanted me to let you know that he'll set up the Inipi for whenever you can make the trip. Just take as long as you need. And best of luck getting things organized and please call me when you get things figured out please."

"Thanks, that's a bit of a load off of our minds, I'll pass the news along to the rest of the group."

Terminating the call, Judy tells the group of Doctor Cotton's news. Just as she finishes, mister Grayson recalls them into his office.

"I know that everyone is anxious to hear what I've got, so I won't keep you in suspense. After studying the appropriate laws and regulations, and addressing your specific needs mister and missus Hopps, it's my opinion that you can proceed with the reorganization of your current holdings as outlined in the plans that you set before me.'
'To be certain that everything is understood clearly, let me again outline your plans. To begin with, you wish to cash let approximately ten thousand of your 11,500 acres, is that correct?"

Looking at Bonnie, Stu replies "Yes, it is."

"And a plot of roughly fifty acres that includes the land and all outbuildings to include a large barn, two large tractor sheds and two medium sized equipment sheds are to be sold to mister Wilde here. The buildings will be renovated and upgraded to house his custom car shop. Is that also correct?"

"Yes, that's correct" replies Stu.

"With the exception of a five-acre plot that is to be gifted to your daughter and her husband at a later date, mister Wilde, the remaining property and land will remain sole property of Hopps Family Farms® for personal use, is that correct?"

"Yes" reply both Bonnie and Stu.

"Then I see no reason why you shouldn't proceed. Do you wish me to do the legal filings?"

"Yes sir, we do" answered Bonnie.

"I would like to make a small suggestion, before I have my secretary begin the paperwork if I may."

"And that would be … what?" asks Nick.

"I feel it would be prudent to register the farm as an LLC, or Limited Liability Corporation, to limit your culpability should something go amiss."

"Such as …?" asks a curious Nick.

"Using a pesticide that would be harmful to any or all mammals, or possibly a natural disaster such as you experienced not long ago if I recall, or any number of other pitfalls that could possibly befall the crops.'
'Please feel free to consult with your tax attorney to see if he or she agrees with my suggestion if you like."

While everyone in the room looks at one another in uncertainty, Stu speaks up "Mister Grayson, I put my faith, my farm and my family in your paws. Do whatever you feel needs to be done to make it all happen, and-"

"And send me the bill for everything, please" interrupts Nick.

"Nick no-" says Bonnie as she begins to protest.

"Mother please" interrupts Judy. "Nick and I discussed this last night and this is the way it's gonna be. We have the means and the motivation. While we have no idea, how well off financially you are, we are more than able to afford it. We can and will do this.'
'We're gonna leave now while you, dad and mister Grayson to work out the fine details like where the possible dividing lines for each field will be, who you might rent to and how much you're gonna charge per acre. You already know the area and building that we need for the shop and an idea for the set aside we want for the house, so we really aren't needed here anymore. We're gonna head back to the shop and help with moving what can be salvaged to the warehouse and hire guards to make sure nothing is stolen until we can get stuff moved to the farm, along with a hundred or so other details that'll need to be attended to."

Addressing mister Grayson, Judy continues "You will send the bill for your services to Wilde Ride Customs and that's final."

Knowing full well that there was absolutely no room for an argument, all Grayson could do was to answer "Yes ma'am missus Wilde, I understand completely."

With that, Nick and Judy left Grayson's office and headed back to the shop to help organize the massive upcoming move.

Arriving at what's left of the soon to be previous site of Wilde Ride Customs, Nick and Judy find Midnight completely in charge of relocating undamaged vehicles, tools and other odds and ends to the warehouse. Fortunately, with the depletion of vehicles from the warehouse due to the recent upsurge in sales, there seemed to be plenty of room for everything from the shop.

"So" begins Nick as they approach Midnight "How goes the battle?"

Rolling his eyes a bit, Midnight gestures to the mostly empty remains of the old shop.

"For the most part, not too bad. The cars, tools and most of the lighter equipment has all been moved to the warehouse, but I'm really not too sure what to do with some of the stuff left over from when Squeak and her brothers first moved in upstairs. Josh took charge of the filing cabinets full of old receipts and tax forms and anything else that he deemed related to the shop. Snow took charge of moving the stuff from the storage space from behind what's left of the office.'
'I took the liberty of contacting Silver Star Security for armed security of the stuff in the warehouse until we get ready to move everything to the new 'Burrow' location. I figured you'd absolutely want the best security outfit in the city, and as far as I could tell, they're the best. It's run by a bunch of vets, so they should know what to do. And no, I never served with any of the mammals, so there's no 'good old mammal' conflict of interest there."

Staring at Midnight for a few long seconds, Nick responds "I appreciate the fact that you took the initiative to get the security thing going, but I'd trust your judgement on it even if you did know the mammals involved. You've never given me reason to not trust your judgement before, so I sure as hell wouldn't not trust you now."

Trying unsuccessfully to hide the emotions crossing his muzzle, Midnight is relieved to see Josh approaching.

"Hey boss" says Josh "I'm sure Midnight told you I've got all of the old paper records that had been in the warehouse. I'm gonna take them home with me and scan 'em all to the cloud."

"And the rest of the records for the shop are already in the cloud I take it?" asks Nick.

"Yup, sure are. There may have been a few stray receipts that were in the office when everything went south, but I've called all of the vendors and asked them to email receipts for anything purchased in the last sixty days, just to be sure I didn't miss anything."

"And Snow is ok with you taking up so much of her time at home doing that instead of snuggling?"

Slightly embarrassed Josh has to admit "Well, she does make me take breaks every so often…."

"How often?" asks Judy, not wanting to miss a chance to embarrass he brother.

"You'll have to ask her, cause I ain't saying shit" says Josh "A gentlemammal don't kiss and tell."

"Yea, well you ain't no gentlemammal-" shoots back Judy.

"Hold up a sec" interrupts Nick "unless I miss my guess, since you're a bunny you don't have 'mandatory cuddle time' with Snow like we do, right?" which caused Judy to hide try to her blush behind her ears.

Looking more than a little confused "Mandatory cuddle time? What the hell is that? Why would cuddling be mandatory anyway?"

Leaning over and whispering in Josh's ear for several seconds, Nick explained certain functions of male fox anatomy during intimacy to Josh.

With ears straight up and eyes wide open, all Josh could do after shooting a horrified look towards his sister, was yell as he very quickly ran out of the room was "TMI, TMI, TMI … SHIT, SHIT, SHIT!"

"Ok, I guess that's good for now" says Nick with a large grin.

"Damn Nick, you just had to go there didn't you?" asks Judy, somewhat peeved.

"What, you mean it's 'knot' funny?" he asks, adding air quotes for emphasis much to Judy's chagrin.

Rolling her eyes, Judy opens her mouth to answer when her and Nick's phones both pinged, indicating incoming text messages.

Quickly reading the message, which was from her folks, Judy jumps for joy yelling, "Whoo hoo" her embarrassment quickly forgotten.

Nick can only grin as he reads the same message.

Seeing the only slightly concerned/amused look coming from Midnight, Nick explains: "It's from Stu and Bonnie. The paperwork has all been signed, everything is set and legal.'
'Hopps Family Farms®' has officially become 'Hopps Family Farms LLC®' and Wilde Ride Customs will be based out of Bunnyburrow.'
'Duane has gone ahead and is in contact with the Tri-Burrows zoning committee and is getting everything set for us. He's got a few plans drawn up, with plenty of Tiff's help I hear, to convert the barns and sheds to the shop setup and warehousing for projects and parts and vehicle storage to best suit the move, he's just waiting for me to give final approval for that so he can get bids on the conversions. So, I guess our next move" looking at Judy "is to go to Bunnyburrow and over check the plans to make sure everything is hunky-dorey."

Continuing on with his train of thought "Midnight, you can put everything here in Lefty's trusty paws and head to the burrows with us to check over the shop and warehouse plans, just to be sure I don't miss anything. In the meantime, Judy and I need to find a place to build the house on. Someplace both close to the main burrow and close to the shop at the same time."

"You know …." says Judy, looking thoughtfully at Nick "the old homestead that mom and dad first started out with is still standing and in reasonably good shape. If I remember correctly, I think there's only one sub-level in that burrow, making it more or less like a basement. Once mom started popping out more kits, dad found out that the soil in that area was really too rocky to keep burrowing there so they moved the main burrow to where it is now.'
'It would be easier and quicker to renovate the old place, and a lot cheaper than building don't you think?"

"The cost doesn't concern me a bit Fluff, you should well know that by now" answers Nick "But yea, it might be kinda nice redoing that old place since you brought it up. It actually makes more sense than building a new home and end up tearing down the old homestead eventually, especially if it's in as good of shape as you think it is. When we get there, we'll give it a really good onceover and decide if it'll be worth the effort. It'd be kinda nice to add to the family history by restoring your folks old place. Good thinking."

"Midnight" says Nick "why don't you and Bolo take the van to the burrow. Since it's already stocked and ready for the trip to the reservation, it might as well get put to good use. Your bit shouldn't last more than a couple of days at the most, just long enough to get the basic floor plans set up for the shop area. Duane will help a bit deciding where he wants the body shop and paint booth to be set up. I have no idea how long we'll be there and since we'll most likely be staying with Bonnie and Stu in Judy's old room at the main burrow, you won't cause too much disruption if you stay in the van. Snow and Tiff will most likely stay in the burrow with their bunnies as well, considering they're pretty much all mated up and all."

"I think that'll work boss, but I'll check with Nadine just to be sure she's good with it."

"To be on the safe side, remind her how good the open air will be for the cubs. You can take a bit of time to scout around for a good place to move into while you're there." says Nick, giving the bit cat a quick wink.

Grinning from ear to ear, Midnight heads back towards the shop area to find Bolo.

As Nick and Judy head towards Bunnyburrow to oversee the transition of the shop and check out the old burrow of Bonnie and Stu, Nick's phone rings.

As Nick is glancing at the caller ID, Judy notices a look of dread wash over his muzzle.

"What's wro-" she begins to ask as Nick connects the call.

"Hi mom, how's the-" he answers in his best fake smiley voice, which naturally gets him nowhere in a big hurry.

"Don't youdare hi mom me Nicholas!" Judy hears Laverne scold Nick from the other end.

"I take it you heard about our umm, little situation?" Nick asks tentatively.

"Little situation? Little situation? … You call someone blowing up the shop a 'little situation'?" she replies, getting even angrier as the call goes on.

"Mom listen" says Nick, trying to keep things from escalating even more "if I had called just after it happened, what would 've you done?"

"You know damned well I-"

"You and Jason would've cut short you cruise and high tailed back here wouldn't you?"

"Of course we would have" she answered back "but that's not the point!"

"No mom, that's exactly the point" forcefully asserted Nick. "Just what do you think you would've accomplished by coming back early? What good would it have done? Answer, nothing. Maybe I was wrong to not tell you about it, but I figured that there's no reason for everyone to be on edge. We have everything reasonably under control here, so you and Jason need to go on doing what you've been doing" after a moment's thought he added "just don't … umm … never mind, just have fun and stop worrying. And tell my new step-dad hello for me" he added with a smirk, winking at Judy, who's ears shot straight up.

"W-wait" stammered Laverne "how did you know that….. Damn, you just hustled me didn't you? Don't deny it, I can hear you smirking from here."

"Yup, sure did. Congrats to you and Jason by the way. Give us a call later tonight and we'll fill you in on all the goin's on while you've been away ok?"

"Ok, just … be careful ok?"

"We'll do our best. Bye."

As Nick and Judy arrive at the Hopps compound, Nick takes stock of the scene before them.

The tractor sheds and barns are far enough from the main burrow (roughly 200 yards) so as not to cause concerns about traffic from the shop creating dangers for the younger Hopps kits, who can be rather boisterous and adventuresome at times.

When Midnight and Bolo pull up beside Nick and Judy, everyone exits the vehicles and head towards the sheds.

"I guess one of the first things to get started on would be to install a good fence around the entire shop complex" states Midnight, taking in the entire area in a panoramic gaze.

"My thoughts exactly" agrees Nick, with Judy nodding her agreement as well.

"I'm thinking that the fence should be around ten feet tall and should be around ten feet from the west edge of the building closest to the burrow, leaving plenty of room in the front, back and east sides for parking, parts storage and a bit extra for just in case" adds Bolo.

With everyone nodding in agreement, the quartet heads for the outbuildings.

After touring all five of said buildings, they all head toward the main burrow, where they find Bonnie, Stu, Duane and Tiffany gathered in the main kitchen, just sitting down to lunch.

"Hey guys" greets Bonnie as the Zoo crew enters "we saw y'all arrive a bit ago, so we fixed plenty. Sit down and take a load off for a spell."

"Mom" asks Judy barely holding in a giggle "Have you been watching those old hillbunny shows again?"

"I told you everyone would notice didn't I-" began Stu, who promptly got quiet after noticing the stink eye he was getting from Bonnie.

"Yes bun-bun" replied Bonnie "since I've had a bit more spare time to actually watch some tv, I've been catching up on back episodes of the Beverly Hillbunnies and the Dukes of Hayzard. They always were my favorites when you were little.

"And on that note" interrupted Duane "Tiff and I have been busy getting different stuff organized around the burrow. While I've been laying out plans for the upgrades to the new shop areas, specifically the body shop and paint booth, Tiff has been helping dad line up different prospects for renting out the land. Tiff, why don't you go over that stuff with Judy after lunch while I take the guys out to the new shop to explain my ideas for the upgrades?"

"I think I'll pass on that little idea" answers Judy. "that sounds more like something that Laverne would be good at. Did she tell you when they'd be back Nick?"

Seeing the questioning gazes that they were getting from everyone else in the room, Nick explained: "Mom and her significant other are currently still on their cruise. It seems like they took advantage of the trip to get married, and no she didn't say a thing about when they'd be back. I figure probably by the end of next week at the latest. Without her over the top organizational skills, I probably would have lost the shop years ago. I'm sure she'd he happy to help organize it all. I'll be sure to ask the next time she calls."

Finishing with lunch, Judy asks Stu "Dad, Nick and I have been considering moving into the burrow that you and mom started out in. do you think we could run over there quick and check it out?"

As Bonnie and Stu looked at each other, Bonnie replies "Would you mind if I tag along? It's been a long time since I've been there."

Noticing her parent's eyes begin to mist over, Judy looked questionly at Nick, who simply smiles in return.

"I think it would be a great idea mom" returns Judy. "We'll take the step-side and you can make the ride in your new truck. A visit to the old burrow in your new truck would be fitting don't ch'a think? Complete the circle so to speak"

Wearing a wistful smile, Bonnie can only look at Stu and nod.

While Nick, Judy Stu and Bonnie head for the old burrow, the rest of the crew head to the new shop location to solidify plans for the renovation.

Arriving at the old burrow, the first thing Nick notices is that Stu has kept the building and grounds in very good condition. The above ground entrance, though in need of a coat of paint, appears to be very solid and was well constructed. One thing in particular caught his eye, but he decided to wait until the tour was over to comment.

As the four went through the entire burrow, including the singular lower level, the item that Nick noticed when entering the burrow was more apparent as they went along.

"Stu" Nick began as they exited the burrow proper "there's something that caught my eye right away and seemed to be evident all through the burrow."

"How tall everything was I take it." remarked Stu with a bit of a shy grin.

"I thought I noticed something different" adds Judy "but I couldn't quite place it. I thought it was tall when I was a kit, but just played it off as being a kit!"

"Yea" interjected Bonnie "it seems that some of my distant relatives had a paw in helping to build the burrow. Somewhere along the line, one of my g'maw's sisters married into a "drove" of hares.

Noticing a slightly confused look on Nick's muzzle, Bonnie explained: "While a lot of bunnies is a fluffle, a bunch of hares is referred to as a drove. More worthless information to file away."

"It really doesn't make a lot of difference to me" says Nick offhandedly "In fact, I think that the burrow's actually quite comfortable considering the height difference between Judy and I. If it's alright with you and Stu, and of course if Judy's ok with it, I would love to renovate the place and live right here.'
'It's mostly above ground, close to the shop and already has the 'homey' feel to it. I think that it would keep the burrow history intact and would be a great place to raise our future kits."

Even though he had been more or less expecting it, being subjected to vicious hugs from three very emotional bunnies at the same time turned out to almost be a traumatic experience for our poor fox.

"Can't … breathe …." Gasps Nick, causing the three to quickly release him and apologize profusely.

"Sorry" indicated an emotional Bonnie and a (not unexpectedly) totally overly emotional and tearful Stu.

Giving a gentle smile, Nick could only tell them "It's ok, I understand, I really do."

While pulling up to the front of the Hopps burrow, Nick and Judy notice a timid looking Josh and a very upset Skye standing in the gazebo.

Approaching the pair, Nick begins to greet them when he is unexpectedly thumped hard in the shoulder by Skye.

"Oww, what the hell was that-" was all he got out when he was suddenly hit hard in the other shoulder.

"Alright Skye, that's enough" demands Judy, forcibly stepping between the two "just what the hell's going on here? You'd better have a damned good reason for hitting Nick like that or else…"

"Damned right I do" says Skye "and here's why."

Staring daggers at Nick, Skye asks him "Do you remember telling Josh about the male anatomy on a fox Tod?"

"Yea, I do, so what? What's the big deal"

"The big deal is this: now he won't lay a paw on me. He's afraid he's not male enough to satisfy me in bed because he can't knot me. Do you know how that makes him … me … US feel? Honestly Nick, sometimes you make me so damned mad that it just makes my asshole yawn…"

"The only reason I told him the difference was to get a rise out of him and to embarrass Judy" counters Nick "I didn't mean nuthin' by it, ya gotta believe me!"

"Yea, well, you better figure out a way to unfuck this up and I ain't playin'. C'mon Josh, let's go before I do somethin' I'll actually regret" as she grabs Josh by the paw and heads towards the burrow proper.

As Nick and Judy stare at each other, both are at a loss for words.

Finally, Judy takes the lead "Nick, what are you gonna do? We can't let this go on for long, you know that, right?"

"I know Fluff, I know. But I really have no real idea at this time. Sure I meant to mess with him a bit, but I never dreamt that it would lead to something like … this!"

After several minutes of thought, Judy comes up with an idea "Nick-"

"Hmmm?"

"How about a ride out to the old tree where I used to go to think?"

"You mean the one with you and your old boyfriends initials carved into it?"

"Damn it Nick, don't start, now is not the time …"

"Ok, ok, fine" says Nick with a bit more force than he intended "I get it already."

"And don't catch an attitude with me mister Wilde, you're the one who got this crap started" says Judy, matching his seeming attitude with one of her own.

"I know Fluff, I know and … I'm sorry ok? Let's just … head for that tree. Maybe some good will come of this yet."

The half hour ride to Judy's old thinking spot, initialed tree and all, was quiet and uneventful.

As they exit the step-side, Nick gets comfortable sitting down and leaning against 'their' tree with Judy lounging in his lap.

After a few moments thought, Nick asks "Fluff …"

"Hmmm?"

"With you having so many brothers, and your umm … encounter … with Johnny, would you please enlighten me about the difference between mine and a buck's … umm …"

"Genitals?" she asks softly as she turns to face him.

"Yea, that. And the difference in the afterwards stuff."

As Judy goes into a shortened version about the differences in bunny male anatomy and intimacy, she can see Nick's mind working.

Noticing a small smile start to form on Nick's muzzle, Judy's reasonably certain that he's forming a plan of some sorts.

"I think I've got an idea. C'mon, I'll explain it on the way back to the burrow. You can let me know if you think it'll work or not."

Seeing Josh and Skye again sitting dejectedly paw in paw in the gazebo as they get to the burrow, Judy agrees that it's at least worth a shot.

"So, how are we gonna work this?" Judy asks.

"I'll lay it out to Josh, and you just tell Snow that I think I have a solution, and that I'm gonna explain everything to Josh. Just ask her to trust this long enough to at least give it a try. OK?"

"I guess that's as good a plan as any. Let's go get this done."

Approaching the dejected pair, Nick puts a paw on Josh's shoulder "C'mon Josh, we need to have a short 'guy' talk."

"And" says Judy to Skye "You and I are gonna have a short talk as well."

After about fifteen minutes, Nick and Josh return to find the girls waiting anxiously.

"Go on Josh, everythin' 'll work out fine, I promise." Nick tells him.

As Josh and Skye walk off towards the burrow, Judy has to ask "Do you really think this'll work?"

"Not for sure no, but it's at least worth a shot. Besides, believing is the important thing, right? If they both believe that it might work, that's most of the battle."

"I guess we'll find out later. Anyways, let's get something to eat, I'm starving. It smells like mom's made some of that chicken casserole that you like so much."

During supper, Bonnie comments "I wonder where Josh and Skye are! I haven't seen them in some time. I'd hate for them to miss supper after I made so much."

"I'm sure they'll be along" says Judy, eyeing Nick with a grin. "If not, we'll save them some. The spinach soufflé you made for Josh will keep as well."

Later that evening, long after all of the kits and Bonnie and Stu have gone to bed, the disheveled pair of Skye and Josh stumble into the central living area where Nick and Judy are watching the latest Fur Wars movie on the big screen tv.

"Oww!" says Nick as Skye suddenly smacks Nick on the back of the head.

"That's for creating the mess for Josh and I" says Skye forcefully.

As Judy get ready to confront Skye, Skye kisses Nick on top of his head "And that's for makin' it right again" she says.

"So, we're good?" asks Nick.

"Yea, we're good" admits Skye. "In fact, better than ever. Thanks Nick."

"We saved you guys some supper in case you might need something to eat after all of that … activity" says Judy laughing.

"Is that your mom's chicken casserole I smell?"

"Yup, and there's spinach soufflé for Josh too."

"Thanks, we're gonna eat and then go back and try to get some sleep …" says Skye as she and Josh head for the dining area.

Looking at each other and saying "Sleep … riiiiight!" Nick and Judy go back to their movie, laughing at the implied suggestion that Skye and Josh would actually go to sleep.

XxX