28 Hunkápi - Making Relatives

XxX

AN: This chapter was very emotional for me to write. Being part Lakota, I wanted to share some of my traditions with you all for we are all related … Mitakuye Oyasin!

ALL SPIRIT VISITATIONS OCCUR AT ROUGHLY THE SAME TIME!

As Nick begins to meditate, he experiences a vision … a vision of a legendary figure of Vulpine lore:

"Nicholas … Nicholas Wilde."

"Who-who are you that you know my name?"

"Do you not remember the legends that you were taught in kithood?"

Pausing for a few moments, Nick finally has the answer "You are Yobi … Yobi the Five Tailed Fox,"

"That is correct."

"But … you're a legend, nothing but a myth!"

"Am I? If so, how then are you able to see and hear me?"

"…My imagination …?"

"Do you truly believe that?"

"Let's say I believe that you are who you say you are, why are you here?"

"Can you not guess?"

"Since I'm doing my very best to atone for mistakes made in my youth, I can only guess that it is to aid me in helping my mate."

"That is correct. Know this Nicholas Wilde, the spirits have seen your plight and have decided to allow you and your mate to have your kits. You and she have suffered greatly at the paws of others, and have helped each other to heal in spite of the difficulties that have been thrown your way both individually and collectively. For this reason, you will be allowed to propagate a new species of mammals.'
' A deity of Judith's will be visiting her to help ease her mind, so although you may wish to console her, do not overly worry, she will be fine."

"One quick question if I may … what will this new species be called?"

"Look into your heart Nicholas, you already know the answer …"

And with that, Yobi was gone.

Trying to relax and clear her mind, Judy suddenly has another vision – the Black Rabbit of lapin legends.

"Are you here to take me?" she asks.

"No Judith, I am not."

"Then why are you here? To torture me? I have had so much pain and misery in my life, please either take me with you or leave me alone!"

"I am very much aware of you pain Judith. Many of the spirits have met and decided that it is not yet time for you to join us. You are aware that if I take you now, your mate will soon follow are you not?"

"Please, please leave Nick alone! He's the one bright spot in my miserable life and I don't want him harmed." she pleads, sobbing inwardly.

I have absolutely no intention of taking either of you at this time. I have been sent to you to deliver a message from the spirit world, the same message that you seem to have forgotten that was sent by your future kits."

"My kits?"

"Yes Judith. You have been informed once already that you will have kits by your mate, why have you forgotten this?"

"It seems like so long ago. Yes, I remember. But … why do I need to suffer so? Why can I not have some peace in my life?"

"You may call it a test of faith if you will. You have already have had a vision of your kits, but can you really accept them for who they will be?"

"Of course I can, how can you ask such a question?"

"Are you ready for the challenges that such hybrid kits will pose? Not just for you and your mate, but for the kits as well?"

"Nick and I have seen so much bigotry and hatred both alone and together that we can easily teach our kits to endure it, make no mistake!" she says forcefully.

"We shall see … shan't we ….?" says the Black Rabbit as it slowly fades.

Suddenly, the interior of the Inipi is bathed in an unnatural glow, startling all of the mammals inside.

Before the unbelieving eyes of all is the vision of a female wolf. The she wolf has beautiful red flowing fur and is clothed in traditional Lakota regalia.

Stunned by the sudden appearance, everyone is without words.

Finally, Michael finds his tongue "Ancient one, how are you called?" he asks.

"Do you not remember your lore?" she asks. "Surely you remember the name of Holo!"

"… you are Holo?"

"Did I not just say so?"

"Forgive me great Holo-"

"I see many assembled here who may not know of me, please introduce me properly."

"My apologies. Everyone, you are in the presence of one of our spirit elders, Holo … that is to say Holo the Wise Wolf.'
'Holo, please acknowledge Nicholas and Judith Wilde, Thomas Dancer, … umm…."

"Great Holo, I am called Midnight, but my given name is Jerald M'bai."

"Holo" continues Lefty "I am called Charles Sanderson."

"Greetings to all. I am here at the request of Wakan Tanka, Yobi and the Black Rabbit to inform all here that the rabbit doe now known as Judith, formerly known as Wolf Spirit, and the fox todd now known as Nicholas, formerly known as Iron Eyes, shall be allowed to propagate a new species. This was agreed upon by all concerned spirits.'
'Let it be further known to all in this gathering, that the mind of Wolf Spirit shall be put at ease. Although regretful, the killing of a youngling was necessary in the eyes of the spirits for the protection of other young. The spirit of the pup known as No Name harbors no
ill will against the doe now known as Judith for the taking of her life. Each was doing what was required of them at the time. All gathered here shall retain the memories of what has transpired, both individually and in this group. I shall now take my leave. Peace be with you all … Mitakuye Oyasin!"

"Mitakuye Oyasin." Was echoed by all as the wolf dissolved into nothingness.

Noticing that sunlight was beginning to seep in the lodge around the edges of the door (roughly 6 am), Michael tells Nick "Nicholas, please open the door. The warrior portion of Inipi is concluded, Mitakuye Oyasin."

As everyone exits the Inipi with Michael leading, the crisp morning air quickly throws a chill on them. When Kicking Bird and Black Shawl hand towels to the participants to quickly dry and then blankets to cover themselves for warmth, the drums that had played all night finally stop their rhythm and the chanting ends.

After everyone in the group is smudged out of the sacred circle, they are greeted warmly by the members of Pines Ridge tribe that had drummed, danced and prayed all night, as well as the members of other tribes, both predator and prey, who had also arrived to show their support of the bunny doe and her mate who had so unselfishly protected the pups.

Totally stunned by the tremendous show of support from mammals from a totally different culture that they had never known or met, neither Nick or Judy (let alone Midnight, Lefty or Bolo) had any idea what to say or do.

"You may get something to eat if you so wish" says Black Shawl, motioning towards the Wupulla "the feast you see was prepared for all who participated in Inipi. The others have already eaten, and no one else may eat until you have had your fill, so please enjoy."

While all participants were enjoying their meals, an attractive older she wolf shyly hands Bolo a plate that she had prepared for him.

"Híŋhaŋni wašté, Iye-Ehate Ohinni" (Good morning, She Always Laughs) begins Bolo "I truly regret my actions of the past … by not speaking with you I have cause us both undue hardship and pain-"

She Always Laughs gently places a finger oh Bolo's lips "Let us speak of this in private, for I have regrets as well. For now, please eat and know that you are still in my heart, Sunkmanitu Tanka Ob Waci!" (Dances With Wolves)

"That is a name that I've not heard in a long time … I look forward to hearing it again."

"I pray you shall. I must return to my duties at Wupulla, please seek me out before your return to …"

"Bunnyburrow. I will be living and working in a small Tri-burrow village called Bunnyburrow.

Noting her puzzled expression "I shall explain when we speak later."

As Bolo joins the other participants, he quickly glances over his shoulder to catch one last glimpse of She Always Laughs and sees a wistful smile on her muzzle as she joins the other females keeping fresh food on the Wupulla tables.

"Hau Mitiblo Ki" says Michael to Bolo as Bolo approaches the small group "It seems that you still have an admirer."

"Hau Ciyewaye Ki, perhaps. She and I will speak in private later."

"That is good. Many things have been revealed on this day. May the spirits be with you and guide you brother.

"And with you as well."

Expecting a smirk and some playful easing at least from Nick, but receiving nothing but an expectant look, Bolo gave a short explanation "Yes, the she wolf you saw me with was She Always Laughs. She and I will speak later to discuss the past and perhaps the future."

"That's great Bolo" says Nick "I hope all goes well for you … for both of you."

"Thanks Nick, it's appreciated … especially the lack of teasing that is."

"I try not to tease too much when it comes to matters of the heart. Too many of us have had a difficult time of it when it comes to that."

"And I wish you well as well" adds Judy, placing a paw on Bolo's arm. "Everyone needs someone in their life, and when it comes to second chances, we all need those, take it from me."

"Thank you both, it means a lot, especially after all these years. Please excuse me, I need to go speak with an old friend."

Watching Bolo walk slowly towards a certain mammal, Nick tells Judy "You know when we get back to the burrow, he's gonna get a boatload of teasing, right?

"You wouldn't dare …"

"No, I promise not to, but with Midnight …not so much."

"Well then I'm gonna-"

"Please don't. Midnight and Bolo are about as close as Bolo and Michael. Midnight will tease him a bit, but it's actually kind of expected. Remember how Bolo was all over Midnight's ass after the thing with Candy that night at the shop?'
'And how well do you think things would have gone for us if everyone had razzed either you, me or both of us? A time and place for everything Fluff"

"…. Ok, I get it. Do you think Bolo and what's her name will work things out?"

"She Always Laughs? Maybe? I don't know, but I hope so. It seems like they're at least going to talk it over so there's a good chance of it. Let's finish eating so the drummers and others can get something to eat. We can talk about it after we get some rest."

After stopping briefly to thank Michael, Kicking Bird, Black Shawl and other tribal members for their support, Nick and Judy head for their teepee for some well-deserved rest.

While getting comfortable on their pallet, Nick has to ask "Judy …"

"Yes?"

"How are you … really?"

"Umm, better … I think." And she proceeds to tell Nick of her vision – the conversation between herself and the Black Rabbit.

"Ok … so pretend for a moment that I'm not familiar with the Black Rabbit…"

"Well, simply put, the Black Rabbit normally only appears to collect the souls of the dead and escort them to the afterlife."

"And this Black Rabbit didn't want your soul?"

"No. He merely reminded me of the time I had my vision of our future kits, and asked if I was truly ready to have them and the difficulties that would come along with them. Not only for you and I, but for the kits being hybrids.'
'Did you experience a vision?"

"I did. A vixen of vulpine legend called Yobi-Yobi the Five Tailed Fox. She called me by name and told me that the spirits knew of our suffering and that they would allow us to have our kits, to … propagate a new species of mammals I believe she said. She also told me that your mind would be put at ease."

"Is that all?"

"… When I asked these mammals would be called, she told me to look inside my heart, that I already knew the answer to my question."

"And?"

"Right now, I have no idea. Let's get some sleep, maybe it'll come to me then. If not, perhaps sometime when I'm not trying so hard to think of it."

"Ok, we'll not stress about it for now. G'night Nick" giving him a soft kiss on the cheek.

"Mornin' Fluff."

"Smart ass …"

"Yup …"

After eating, Bolo and She Always Laughs find a secluded spot for quiet, private talk, Bolo begins "She Always Laughs, I-".

"With no one else around, please use my given name, the one we knew each other as when we were young."

"Very well Renee, but only if you call me Thomas as well."

Smiling, Renee agrees "As you wish Thomas."

Taking a deep breath and with tears in his eyes, Bolo begins: "When I heard of your betrothal to Dark Hunter, I was shocked. But more than that, I was deeply hurt. My heart ached to think that you would be with another.'
'We both know how our tribes were at odds, and that interspecies relationships were looked down upon at that time, especially predator and prey relationships. In my hurt and anger, I decided that it would be best if I were to distance myself from not only you but from our tribes as well. I could not stand to be so close to you and not be with you.'
'I moved to Zootopia where I became the stereotypical drunk Indigent. I got into a lot of fights and sent to jail more often than not.'
'One fateful night I was playing guitar in a blues club and someone threw a bottle of beer. It hit me, I hit him and almost killed him. I ran, there was a bolo put out on me and-"

Noticing the questioning look he was getting "That means 'be on the lookout'. After I was arrested … again … I was facing serious jail time if not prison, when a certain fox paid my bail and vouched for me. That same fox gave me a job and got me the help I needed to stop my drinking and fighting. That fox is Nicholas Wilde, the husband of the bunny doe that saved the pups yesterday.'
'I literally owe that fox my life, as do most of the mammals that work for him. I am proud to call him my friend and my brother."

Seeing the sad look on Renee's face, Bolo has to ask "But, what of you? Michael said that you never married…"

"Dark Hunter, that is Calvin, and I never really got along, even as pups. Why our parents decided to betroth us at such a young age I have no idea. We argued about everything, he even hit me once-"

Seeing the rage building in Bolo's face, Renee placed a paw on his arm "Do not concern yourself or think of revenge, Calvin has been dealt with and requires no intervention on your part. Promise me Thomas, that you will not pursue this any further. Thomas ... Promise!"

Taking a deep breath, and knowing that arguing wouldn't solve anything, Bolo relents "I promise. On my honor as a Dancer I promise to take no action against Dark Hunter, or Calvin Hindrichs!"

"Thank you. Now, to continue my tale … I tried to find you after Calvin and I parted, but had no idea where to look. Even Michael tried to help, but to no avail. Fortune has truly smiled on us. But if I may ask, why do the wašíču call you Bolo?"

"To begin with, I do not consider them wašíču. They are friends, very close friends, practically Tiyóspaye(dee-wah-hay ~ family). That is why I volunteered to come to Inipi for the doe called Judith. I already mentioned that her mate virtually saved my life. Which brings me to the name that I am called. Do you remember that I told you about the police putting out a 'bolo' for me when I struck and almost killed a mammal? My boss learned of the bolo and with his particular sense of humor gave me that name."

Noting the slightly sour expression crossing her muzzle, he continues "I really do not mind the name, it helps to keep me centered, to remind me of the past and to not repeat my mistakes. Please do not concern yourself with this."

"As you wish" concedes Renee "If I may ask, what are your plans now? Does the future hold anything for us? Do you even wish to pursue a future with me?"

"I truly do wish to have you in my future if you'll have me. The main issue that I see is one of distance. Long distance relationships usually do not end well, we both know this. I cannot see the reservation in my future, and I am not sure if you would be comfortable moving to Bunnyburrow, as I have no idea what your duties or responsibilities are here."

"I have no real duties here at Pines Ridge, and my only responsibility is as a substitute teacher at the village school. The meager income supplements my reparations payment I get from the B.I.A. (Bureau of Indigenous Affairs) every month. I would have no qualms in moving, provided that Grandfather approves, the proper courtship and perhaps wedding customs are followed. My parents have long gone to join our ancestors, so I have no other duties to speak of.'
'But tell me, what responsibilities would I inherit in this Bunnyburrow place? Being a stay at home wife does not suit me well I think."

"I will speak to Nicholas of this and see if he has any suggestions."

"Is this Bunnyburrow a prey community as I suspect that it is? How will I be accepted there, being a predator and unaccustomed to their ways?"

"Even when Nicholas and Judith had just barely met and decided to become a couple, Nicholas and his employees, all of us, went to the aid of Judith's parents when a TATE TANKA (dah-day dahn-kah ~ tornado) destroyed their home and farm. At the time, Judith and her parents were at odds because she chose to be with a predator, especially a fox. It made no difference to Nicholas. He, that is we, totally rebuilt Judith's parents home and farm. That's the kind of mammal he is, the kind of mammals we all are.'
'Another time, recently in fact, Judith's parents were again in danger of losing their farm because there wasn't enough help to manage such a large operation. Again, Nicholas and his employees went to rescue them.'
'Shortly before Inipi, Nicholas and Judith were at Judith's parents wedding anniversary. Someone actually blew up Nicholas's business in Zootopia. No one was injured but the shop was almost completely destroyed. When Nicholas decided to move the entire operation to Bunnyburrow, he offered to move every one of his employees at his expense, even to the point of finding homes and paying mortgages to help. Every one of us was welcomed with open arms by residents of not only Bunnyburrow, but the surrounding communities as well.'
'You will have no problems being accepted by the residents or by anyone who works for Nicholas. The two rabbit bucks that participated in Inipi are actually engaged to the vixens they are with. The entire shopconsists of interspecies mammals, many with children of their own."

Stunned by the revelation, Renee could offer no comeback.

"Please forgive me, but I must rest now. Along with the two others who I accompanied from Bunnyburrow, I have been offered a place to rest in the teepee erected close to Inipi. I will have word sent to you or seek you out when I wake later this day and have spoken with Grandfather and Nicholas. We will continue this discussion then."

Standing and gathering Bolo into a tight hug "Rest well Sunkmanitu Tanka Ob Waci."

"Until later Iye Ehate Ohinni!"

Entering the teepee, Bolo is not surprised to see both Midnight and Lefty awake and waiting for him.

"What?" asks Bolo, already tensing for the ribbing that he knew was sure to come.

"You know what bro" answers Midnight "we saw you sneak off with the wolf chick."

"During Inipi, do you remember Michael telling me of a female who had never married?"

"Yea … and?"

"She and I had a quiet talk regarding the past and perhaps the future."

"And?"

"We will speak of this later, you and I, you have my word. For now I need to rest, then I will need to speak with Nick. Please brother, respect my wishes and wait for me to sort things out, then I will reveal all to you."

Knowing exactly how serious Bolo was when he made the request, Midnight relents "You got it. but I expect a full rundown or you know I'll rag you until you do…"

"Thank you. Now, please, let's all get some much-needed rest."

Later that day, after everyone rises to relieve themselves, clean up a bit and try to find something to eat, they are all amazed to find the Wupulla tables still being staffed.

While filling plates, they are all informed that Kicking Bird wishes to speak to each of them after they have eaten.

As everyone assembles at the home of Kicking Bird and Black Shawl, a meeting of sorts take place.

"Have the spirits helped to rest your mind Judith?" asks Kicking Bird.

"Yes Grandfather, very much so. I believe I can make peace with myself, thank you so much for calling the Inipi so quickly."

"It was an honor to do so. Michael, how do you believe the Inipi went? Especially for the first time you led one!"

"Much was revealed father."

Turning and addressing all of the Zootopians "Does anyone have any concerns of any kind to address at this time?"

"I have a thing or two that I would like to speak to you about Grandfather" says Nick "a matter that could perhaps help many here on the reservation, or at the very least this village."

"And what might they be Nicholas?" asks Kicking Bird.

"Firstly, a lot of the cars and trucks that are just sitting and rusting. I would like to purchase them from the rightful owners at a more than fair price for use at my shop. I understand that this alone is nothing more than a short-term thing.'
'Also, I have noticed that the bead work and other items, such as knives that are made here need an outlet. I am willing to purchase these things as well and return roughly seventy percent of the profit back to the coffers of the reservation. This is to purchase more supplies to be used to make more items for sale. I am also willing to front a substantial sum for the initial purchase of beads and other materials for those who wish to contribute for the making of trinkets and knives, or whatever you wish to offer for sale. I have connections in Zootopia and Bunnyburrow and other communities who I believe would be more than happy to buy anything you wish to make for sale."

"Why would you do these things?" asks Kicking Bird.

"Because it's what I do" says Nick simply. "I fix broken mammals, or at least do my best to. This is my way to do my best try to help this village, and others if need be, to heal."

"I will consider your kind offer. Is there anything else?"

"Actually, yes there is" relies Judy "There is a young pup named Bright Eyes that was with us when the attack occurred. She has expressed a desire to study clothing design and we would like to offer to have her take her last years of high school in Bunnyburrow and then go to an accredited design school in the city. Bright Eyes will stay in my parents burrow under their supervision. In exchange, she will help around the burrow with whatever chores that my parents deem fit for her."

"There is something else, is there not?"

"… Um, yes there is" admits Judy a bit uncertainly. "There is a young cougar cub from another tribe that she fancies. She admits that there has been nothing going on past sweet talk and pawholding, and I promised not to tell anyone about this. I know I'm breaking that promise, but there is no way around it. The cub is interested in graphic art and would benefit greatly from added schooling."

"I have asked a coyote employee of mine who attended Inipi last night if he would consider having the cub stay with him and aid him with his daily routine" adds Nick "Lefty is a disabled veteran who requires assistance with a few things and has agreed to let the cub stay with him if you and his parents will allow it."

"You have come to me with these concerns in a good way. I will consider these things and give you my answer in due time before you leave Pines Ridge. Does anyone else have anything for me to consider?"

"Yes Grandfather" says Bolo "I would speak with you in private if I may."

"If no one else has anything for me, you may take all your leave. Mitakuye Oyasin."

"Mitakuye Oyasin!" say all as they exit and head back to their temporary dwellings, still a bit tired from their experience.

"I wonder what that's about!" says Judy out loud.

"I'm betting it's about the female, what's her name again-" begins Midnight.

"She Always Laughs?" suggests Nick.

"Yea, her. When he came back to the teepee this morning, he was a googly eyed and said something about the past and their future."

"Some old flames never die I guess" suggests Judy. "Better late than never,"

"Yea, I guess" admits Midnight. "I really hope things work out for him, ya know?"

"Me too dude" admits Nick, "me too..."

Returning to their teepee, Nick and Judy get comfortable. Laying on their pallet not quite tired enough to sleep, they wonder what Kicking Bird will say about Nicks suggestions.

"Do you think Kicking Bird will go with any of your stuff?" asks Judy.

"No idea Fluff, I can only hope so. It's like I told him, I know the junk cars are a short-term deal, but the things that the pups can make and the knives and stuff are a long-term thing that actually offers some amount of hope for those stuck here on the reservation. We'll just have to see and go with whatever he says. He knows what's good for his tribe, so I'll honor whatever he says."

Just then there's a scratching sound coming from the front of the teepee.

Still being presentable, the couple transition from lying down to a sitting position.

"Hi" says Nick, the word coming naturally for some reason.

Entering the teepee, Bolo apologizes for disturbing them.

"Forgive me Nicholas, Judith … Nick … Umm-"

"It's ok, Bolo, I understand" says Nick "just use whatever's comfortable. Go ahead."

"I wish to reveal to you the reason I spoke with Grandfather privately. Do you remember in Inipi when Michael informed me that She Always Smiles had never married?"

Seeing both mammals nod, he continues, "To begin with, her given name is Renee Sands. Being apart from her all these years is why I had been in the state that you found me so many years ago. It was from a misunderstanding and a lack of communication, mostly on my part. Renee and I have spoken about the possibility of seeing each other, that is to say dating. We both agree that long a distance relationship will not be in our best interest, and I do not believe I will be able to live normally on the reservation again. So, after receiving Grandfather's tentative approval, I have come to ask a favor of you.'
'Grandfather will allow this to happen if we, Renee and I, can find her suitable living quarters and a suitable place of employment in or close to Bunnyburrow. I know that we are both of an age to do as we please, but we are trying to stay as close as we can to the old customs."

"What areas are Renee experienced in?" asks Nick.

"She has told me that she has been a part-time teacher here on the rez, beyond that I'm not sure. We are to meet again later today after I have spoken with grandfather and anyone else who may be of assistance on these matters."

After a moment's thought, Judy speaks "I believe that maybe I can help with that. The Tri-burrow area is always looking for outside influences and education about other cultures of Animalia. I'm sure we can at the very least talk to the Tri-Burrow Board of Education and work something out. As far as someplace to stay, I know that Snow and Josh aren't going to be married in the near future and aren't living together, so I'm sure that she'd be thrilled to have Renee stay with her. I'll ask her to be sure, but I doubt that she'd say no. Give me a chance to talk to her and I'll try to let you know something by supper time, ok?"

"I have no way to thank you properly, but I can always try …" says Bolo with tear filled eyes.

"Bolo … Thomas, you know that this is what we do above all else, so why would now be any different?" asks Nick.

After taking Nick and Judy into a hug, Bolo bids them farewell and heads out to find Renee and give her the news.

"Well, that was all totally unexpected!" remarks Nick.

"Who knew?" returns Judy.

"So, find Snow and talk to her or take a nap?" asks Nick.

"Nap, definitely a nap … just a nap though Nick…."

"Where's that horny bunny that was in here last night?" kids Nick.

"I'll ask around after supper and see if anyone's seen her…"

Settling down on their pallet, Nick and Judy catch a few Z's while they can before supper.

Shortly before supper, Nick and Judy are again roused by a scratching from the teepee entrance.

"HI" answers Nick as he and Judy make themselves presentable.

"Greetings Nicholas and Judith" says Bright Eyes "Grandfather would speak with you before you eat."

"Thank you, Bright Eyes. Please tell Grandfather that we will be there shortly." says Nick.

After quickly washing their faces and paws, Nick and Judy make their way to the home of Kicking Bird.

Entering the home, they are in the presence of Kicking Bird and Black Shawl, Michael, Yvonne and another mammal, as yet unknown to them.

"Nicholas, Judith, please greet Long Fang. Long Fang is the great-great grandson of a mammal whose brother was known as Iron Eyes."

Stunned, all Nick and Judy could do for several seconds was stare…

As Nick's mind slowly kicks in, he reaches forward to make a traditional Lakota pawshake, which is returned by a slightly grinning Long Fang.

"Hau Long Fang" begins Nick.

"Hau Nicholas … Judith" as he nods to Judy, who returns the nod.

"Perhaps you are wondering why I am here" begins Long Fang. "Please, sit and we shall do our best to explain."

"Before we begin" interrupts Michael "I feel that I should apologize for bringing Long Fang here. Under normal circumstances, things are not discussed outside of Inipi. However, after consulting with father, we agreed that it would be beneficial in this case. Please forgive me if I am mistaken."

Looking at one another, it took only seconds for Nick and Judy both to answer that it was ok, and no harm was done.

"Hearing the conversation between you and Judith in Old Tongue during Inipi" begins Michael "I felt it was important enough to speak with father about it. He remembered hearing rumors of such a relationship when he was young."

"While you may have the impression that the two mammals speaking were a fox and a rabbit, the tale handed down by my family actually included a coyote and a rabbit" added Long Fang.

"If I may" politely interrupts Nick "you seem to be a bit of a hybrid yourself, is that correct?"

"Yes, you are correct. My mother was a coyote and my father was a wolf. Both joined the ancestors many summers ago, but the tale is constantly told around campfires. When Sees Far contacted me and told me of your conversation in the Old Tongue, I was intrigued to say the least. Many things are said to have happened during Inipi, but most mammals never get to speak in the Old Tongue, let alone speak with their mates through another.'
'The mammals who spoke through you are said to have loved each other deeply, but were never able to have young of their own. While they were allowed to be part of my tribe, they were said to seclude themselves on the outer edges of our village. The site of their teepee is still known and their graves are well respected, even though the union was not approved of at the time. I would be honored to show both to you if you wish."

Looking at Judy and seeing the tears forming in her eyes, Nick quickly answers for them both "We would be honored to see these places, thank you."

"I have journeyed here at the request of Kicking Bird and Black Shawl to present to you a request. Since the spirits have chosen to honor you by speaking to each of you through you, our tribes wish to honor you with a Hunkapi or making relatives ceremony. You will be made actual tribal members through this ceremony. This ceremony represents the formal adoption of mammals as relatives. You will be given tribal names as well and will be given the same respect as any elder of either of the tribes. Do you wish to partake in this ceremony?"

Again looking at one another, knowing what an honor it is, Nick again answers for the two of them "We do accept this honor. When and where will it take place?"

Smiling, Yvonne answers "It is to take place in a short while. Everyone is busy setting things up as we speak."

"You knew we'd accept all along, didn't you?" asks Judy, shooting an accusing eye at her lagomorph relative.

"But of course! Now, Judy, please come with me while Nick goes with Sees Far. We have regalia for you to wear for the event!"

"But…."

"Normally things aren't this formal, however, at the request of Long Fang's tribe, we felt it appropriate."

As the two are led in different directions, preparations are nearing completion.

At a signal given by Kicking Bird, the tribal drums from both tribes begin their song and chanting in the Old Tongue begins, Nick and Judy are led to a space that had been prepared close to the Inipi site, and was formed in another sacred circle.

As the members of the two participating tribes, who are mostly dressed in period regalia, and rest of the Zootopians look on with Nick and Judy are led out to the sacred circle while Kicking Bird narrates….

"Hunkápi was first used to make peace between the Lakóta and Ree mammals. Making the Ree relatives ensured peace between the tribes. This relationship mirrored the relationship of the Lakóta people with Wakan Tanka.

The first ceremony with the Ree took place over several days. Near the end came the painting of faces.

The women's faces were painted red and the males were painted red with a blue circle around the face and blue lines on the forehead, cheekbones and chin.

Being painted symbolized change, indicating a mammal has been reborn and taken on new responsibilities and a new relationship. Past troubles between the new relatives are forgotten.

Today, one can become part of a Tiyóspaye - extended family, by birth, marriage or Hunkápi.

On this day, we honor Nicholas and Judith Wilde. Spirits of relatives who joined the ancestors long ago have spoken through them during Inipi, and it has been decided by the elders of both tribes gathered here that these two mammals shall become part of both tribes, so honored through Hunkápi.

Nicholas and Judith, step forward."

As Nick and Judy step into the sacred circle, each are smudged into the sacred circle by Sees Far and Stands With A Fist and stop directly in front of Kicking Bird, Black Shawl, Long Fang and his mate whose name is Sunshine.

Nick and Judy are dressed in regalia that would have been easily recognizable over one hundred years ago, and their faces are painted to match the narrative.

When Kicking Bird again begins to speak, the drums and accompanying voices suddenly fall silent…

"The ceremony has been explained in detail to each of you. Do you understand what will happen and do you still wish to proceed?"

"Yes Grandfather" they answer in unison.

"Extend your right paws…"

As Nick extends his right paw Kicking Bird continues with the ceremony-

Taking a ceremonial knife, Kicking Bird makes a small cut on the palm of Nick's paw, and then his own paw. As the two males clasp paws, their blood mingles and Kicking Bird continues "Nicholas Wilde. While this may be your given name at birth, you shall now be known by all assembled here as Ista Maza which means Iron Eyes."

Kicking Bird then passes the knife to Long Fang who makes a small cut on his palm and greets Nick "Hau,IstaMaza" as they clasp palms.

"Hau, Haske Hi"Nick replies in perfect Old Tongue, which surprises many in the crowd, Zootopian and Lakota alike.

The ceremonial knife is then passed to Black Shawl, who makes a small cut in Judy's palm and then her own and clasps Judy's paw, their blood mingling "Judith WildeHopps. While this may be your given name at birth, you shall now be known by all assembled here as Sumanitu Tunka Wana Gi which means Wolf Spirit."

The knife is then passed to Sunshine who makes a small cut on her palm and greets Judy with a palm clasp saying "Hau, Sumanitu Tunka Wana Gi."

"Hau, Maste." Judy answersin perfect Old Tongue as well.

"Mitakuye Oyasin!" declare the elders as one.

"Mitakuye Oyasin." shouts the entire gathering of mammals, including both tribes and the Zootopians.

With that, the two are full members of both tribes.

...

As the ceremony ends and everyone is smudged out of the sacred circle, the prepared feast begins. The drums renew their song and tribe mammals sing along as an impromptu powwow is underway, much to the amazement and enjoyment of the entire Zootopia crowd. The newcomers, especially the guests of honor, are asked to enter the sacred circle and learn different dances of the two tribes.

While the males are taught Northern Traditional and the Grass Dance (minus the Bustle and other regalia), the females are taught both Fancy Shawl and Jingle Dress (minus the actual Jingle dress regalia of course) among others.

While most of the Zootopians are engaged in learning tribal dances, one particular member seeks time for a quiet talk with someone special…

After making their way to a secluded spot not far from the activities, Bolo and Renee settle down for a serious talk.

"I have spoken with Grandfather and Iron Eyes as well as Wolf Spirit" (using Nick and Judy's newly given names). Grandfather has given his approval for you to leave, and Iron Eyes and Wolf Spirit have arranged a cultural teaching position for you with the Tri-Burrow Education System. You have the approval of the Artic Vixen named Skye to lodge with her until she and her bunny are wed. By then you should be established and accepted by the community enough to have your own dwelling.'
'We have been granted permission by Grandfather to date, and if we desire to wed, according to tribal customs. Wolf Spirit has told me that her mother will act in your mother's stead, and Iron eyes has said that his mother will act in my mother's stead to honor the custom of our tribes. [*] Do you wish to continue this and move to Bunnyburrow to teach and to allow me to date you in the traditional ways?"

"Yes, it is my wish to do these things. I, that is to say we, must find a way to honor Iron Eyes and Wolf Spirit and their mothers to allow us to do these things. And what does the vixen ask of me for allowing me to lodge in her home?"

"Only that you teach her some of the ways and customs of our tribes." Gazing at the ongoing festivities he adds "Perhaps you may teach her to Fancy Shawl dance and instruct her how to make the regalia. She does seem to be fascinated by it."

Turning her attention to the dance circle, Renee notices what Bolo mentions.

"I shall do these things. I shall make our tribes proud, and the mammals of my new home proud to know our ways. Let us go now and join the others. I will do my best to instruct the vixen known as Skye in Fancy Shawl."

With that, the new couple joins the ongoing powwow.

XxX

AN: Thanks to AlexanderMugetsu for pointing out a silly mistake in chapter 26 where I indicated that there were white settlers in the land of the Lakota.
Yes, I know that
most female members of the canine family are called bitches, however I refuse to use the derogatory term in the story and simply refer to them as females… deal with it!
Thomas Dancer was Bolo's given (birth) name.
While
some of the 'making relatives' ceremony is very close to the truth, most of it is not, it simply adds to the story. All of the Lakota language represented here is as correct as I can make it.
[*] The traditional Lakota dating customs required that the young man speak to his mother who then would speak to the mother of the girl he was interested in. After the mothers have been spoken to the young man is told he is allowed to come to the lodge.
There were several legendary (depending on what anime you watch) figures, five in all, and a famous quote introduced in this chapter, who can identify them all?
Lastly, yes, I actually gave Judy my Lakota name ….. mainly because it fit the story.