Moles Don't Hibernate

by Rustledforestry

Summary:

"and I know Moles don't hibernate...but..."

Rat and Mole, having recently got together, make dinner at Badgers.

After the mentioning of hibernation, is cutting it fine really enough for the two of them?

This is a purely indulgent fic for an incredibly niche audience.

Sexual Chapters can be skipped x

Notes:

head straight to chapter 2 and 7 for the optional smut

I fell head over heels for the book and the movie adaptations. So naturally a few questions popped into my head.

1. Are Rat and Mole gay?
2. Why is there so much food, and do the four of them really eat that well all the time?

Taking the two themes of affection and food from the book, I've compiled them and taken them up a notch....

Chapter 1: Not a single grace to Pan...

Summary:

Dinner begins and who doesn't like Rats cooking?

It was never a strange occurrence when the Water Rat and the Mole would take a trudge through the tunnels underneath the Wild Wood to Badger's house. In fact, after the fateful day of Mole's first escapade through the wood, it was common for the three of them to settle down by the warm glow of the fireside that crackled in the centre of the sett.

Adorned by soft red brick and age old trinkets that lay on the mantelpiece, made for a cozy atmosphere for the animals to share news and the latest gossip from the riverbank.
Badger and Mole, nestled in for some dinner excitedly taking in the luscious smells coming from the kitchen.

"Doesn't that smell good?" Chuffed Badger in a guff yet kindly tone.
"Ratty is a well trained cook, you did choose him well Mole" He gave a knowing look over to Mole with a slight grin on his face.

"I- I uh yes, He taught himself how to cook...I uh..." Mole blushed a very bright red, hesitated and was taken aback by Badger's jest. Almost out of instinct he sheepishly hid his nose between his jacket, and tried to regain his composure. He was trying all of a sudden to steer the conversation back to food, as he was feeling rather peckish and now a little bit embarrassed. Neither him nor Ratty had told Badger about them being an item... let alone being queer. And he had nailed it right on the head. Had it been obvious?

Ignoring the cooking conversation completely, Badger knew exactly what was ticking in Mole’s mind and decided now was a good time to confirm his observations.

"You know I don't judge." Badger comforted Mole warmly resting a paw on his shoulder. "I've never been one for romance myself, it's not my kind of thing, but I do pick up on it." He said lovingly. "But with Ratty it's simple...he looks at you the same way he does his river, he is smitten." Badger chuckled.

Mole took a deep relieving sigh and started to giggle too making a joyful muffled sound when being heard from the kitchen.

Ratty popped his head around the corner, he had a pristine white apron tied around his waist. In its pocket featured a little blue tea towel decorated with anchors to clean his paws with. He had overheard the noises coming from the dinner table and was curious.

"You alright old chaps? I've just finished with the food." he said, eating a piece of chicken that he had nabbed from the cuttings plate. There was no saying of grace to pan in Badger's house. Badger didn't care for society nor manners. So Rat helping himself to food before dinner was laid, was a passable notion in his mind.

"Yes of course Ratty, let me help you with laying out the table" Mole gladly obliged and got up from his chair. He quickly looked back at the Badger who gave a quick wink to him. This made the Mole giggle more.

Slightly confused, Ratty brushed it off and returned to the kitchen with Mole.

When entering the kitchen and out of sight from Badger, Mole was pleasantly surprised to receive a peck on the cheek from Ratty.

"So what have you and Badger been chatting about then? You seem to be in high spirits, duck." Rat said as he gave his moles fur a scruff on his head.

"Badger has sniffed us out, Ratty, and he seems surprisingly okay with us." Mole explained whilst leaning into his mate's caress of his fur.

"Well you know, Badger may be much older than you or I, however his age does not reflect his views. I figured he would find out sooner or later." Said Rat lovingly in a lower tone, he was enjoying the soft feel of Mole and was looking forward to having a cuddle later in the big chair now that he wouldn't be worried about Badger's judgement.

Then an idea struck into Rat's head.

"You fancy a little tipple of anything? Now that badger knows I feel as if tonight's dinner should be... special..." he proceeded to put his paws on Mole’s waist and slipped his middle digits into the now flustered creature's belt loops to bring him closer to his own body.

"Y-yes ratty of course..." Mole stuttered blushing, in an attempt to appeal to his partner he reached around Rat as if for a hug, then delicately but quickly with his claws loosened the bowline knot that was tying ratty's apron together and snapped back his arms with a smug look.

And with that Rat pooched a little,

"Why you sneaky mole..." he hesitated. "That was holding me in!...I could mistake you for a weasel. You certainly are as slippery as one" Rat added.
Mole was chuffed to bits with his move, and was feeling quite confident. He removed the Rat's apron from around his neck and leaned back against the counter giving it a couple taps.

"Come here often?" He winked "Heat up some sloe and lemon, pretty please bartender." Chastised Mole.

"As you wish. Now take our two plates, pop to the table and go sit down, there's a good chap" Ratty playfully joked and gave Mole a gentle tap on his tush with his tail smirking.

Taking kindly to the interaction, They both knew what this meant and it got them both a little excited for what was to come after dinner…

Mole walked both his and Ratty's plates of food and laid out the wicker placemats upon the table. And soon to follow was Rat with freshly brewed drink in one arm and Badger's meal in another, which was considerably larger than the other two.

Moleys mouth was watering by the look of the food and his stomach rumbled. There was a plump roasted chicken, potatoes, greens and to top it off thick gravy which coated each of their plates.

Perfect for a cold sunday at the start of autumn.

Badger got up from his fireside chair and grunted a little. He plodded over, his frame felt invited to the center of the dinner table as he joined the others. Mole and Rat took to the heads of the table feeling like kings with such a hearty looking meal staring at them with a maiden's longing eyes.

"Let's not stand on ceremony. There we are now dig in! And we won't worry about napkins! Here's to a wonderful autumn and to love" Cheered Rat. The three animals toasted to each other with warm sloe and they began to eat. The three of them revelled in rats cooking, savouring each bite that flooded into their mouths was heavenly.

Notes:

The next chapter is where things get a little bit spicy.

Chapter 2: "Cutting it fine"

Summary:

Rat and Mole discover that 'Cutting it fine' is just simply not enough for them.
Also tipsy Mole.

Notes:

So this is where the fun starts.
It does feel very sacrilege to do this to these characters, So I'm trying to keep it as tame as possible!

If you don't like feedism you can skip to the next chapter :)

By the time they had finished, the three of them pleasantly filled leant back into their chairs. Badger who had taken the longest to eat placed a hand on his gut giving a pleased look at the water rat in contentment.

"You have done a splendid job tonight Ratty," he said finishing off his glass of sloe. "By the time winter comes i'll be in good shape to be ready for hibernation" he added fiddling with his dressing gown strings.

"I think our agreement will come in handy this year, Badger. As long as Toad doesn't go out of his way to make his hobbies a problem, you can sit back and relax as badgers should." The rat chirped, tapping the dining table with his paws.

"Certainly so... Now if you will excuse me I'll be in my study, I don't want to be disturbed, so I have placed out blankets and pillows for you both to settle down for the night." Said Badger grunting again and making a beeline to his study. He let out a big yawn and added "Goodnight you fellows and don't forget to wash up"

"Night Badger," Replied the rat.

The mole after Badger had left was lightly scraping his fork along his plate, head down in thought.

Rat picked up.

"Alright… What is it duck?" Rat got up from his chair and moved over to Mole, giving him a little massage on his shoulders to ease his worries.

"Hibernation? Plan? What have you been planning with Badger, Ratty?" The mole pleaded looking a little glumly at his mate.

"Oh my good fellow..." Ratty responded by cupping Mole’s cheeks in his hands. He turned to face him. "Me and Badger have an agreement this year as he is getting older I promised would help him prepare food in the evenings, It’s to help him put on weight for the winter time as he was struggling to forage with his back"

Moles face brightened, it had become a little clearer now. Despite only being around for a couple years he hadn't learned every rule of the river bank.

"I didn't know badgers had to eat so much," Mole pondered.

"It's part of their biology. I borrowed some books from Toad so I could read up about the subject. It's to ensure that they have enough lipid deposits to get them through the winter." Wisdom poured from Rat's mouth.

It made sense to Mole now, He admired his mate's considerations and selflessness for others. And he began to get curious.

"Well what about Toad?" Mole questioned again.

"Toad?" Replied the insightful rat.

"Well he is bigger than other toads.. but he doesn't hibernate does he?"

"Toad has a tendency to indulge himself in whatever his waiters bring to him. He has the means to do so. It's simply his way. I don't think he would have it any other. As long as an animal is happy who cares how they look, it's another one of society's little rules." Rat chuckled.

“Speaking of, where is Toad tonight? He does not pass up an invitation to Badger’s house” inquired the Mole.

“He says he is planning something and shall be busy all week. It's best not to bother him. Now if you shall excuse me..” Rat explained playfully picking up Mole's plate and pretending to be a waiter as he quickly nipped off into the kitchen.

Mole thought about rats' line whilst he was gone.

"Who cares as long as you're happy..." Moley muttered to himself. He had never much noticed how he looked before but it gave him comfort to know it didn't matter to every other animal.

"Here if you are still hungry i've got more food here, we also have the cake we brought over this morning still in the pantry." Ratty came in again with a delighted look on his face bringing in a tray of left overs and the bottle of sloe.

Mole considered the situation for a second, obviously hesitating, wanting to change to a touchy subject.

"Ratty?" Mole asked.

"Yes darling?" Rat replied

"So I know Badger and Toad have their ways and us moles don't hibernate...but..." Mole hesitated again.

"But what?...Where are you going with this?" Ratty interrupted.

"Have I gained weight?" Mole hid again in his blue coat almost stumbling on his words with embarrassment. He had never talked about his body before. Mole felt very flushed and flustered on the notion. Rat laughed sweetly thinking about his answer and poured a dash of sloe to top up their drinks, he tapped Moley on the shoulder and gave him his glass. Mole reached his arm out still burying his head and took a sip, so sole felt smooth and warm.

"Well yes, as a matter of fact we both have. It's my doing really with all of those picnic dates on the river and dinners with badger and toad, it was bound to happen sooner or later. it wasn't my intention but it's a nice change." Rat said gleefully. Mole looked up and giggled eased by rats flaunting, he got up and went over to the Rat for a cuddle.

"Do you like it? Is it nice?" Mole asked curiously, he ran his claws over rats shirt and untucked it, sliding his claws underneath to feel rats soft fur.

"Nice no its not nice" Rat referenced back to mole with a smug look. "Our bodies are a reflection of our experiences like sun against the water, the friends we eat with, the stories we share. And I think it's wonderful to see animals eat and drink their fill, because I know that they are having a good time. And I think the times we eat and drink is simply symbolic of our love for each other. It's simple really and I quite like that. How about you?" Rat monolouged calmly in a sweet soothing voice that melted the Mole's heart like butter, the natural romanticism pouring out of the poet's mouth made Mole feel admiration and comfort from the rat as the two embraced.

The mole thought about his answer and buried his head in Rats fur and out came his reply.

"I-I like it," Mole said, muffled "I liked our first picnic" hoping the rat wouldn't hear, but enough to make the rat hear. His face was getting rather flush at this point.

"Our first picnic, When we met? What about it?" The rat asked as he lifted the moles face up with his paws attempting to straighten his glasses whilst doing so.

"Well, after you started listing all of the things in your luncheon basket, I found myself surprised as to how much you brought with you, 'Cutting it fine' you said. ‘Cutting it fine’ indeed I'd never seen so much food in my life. So when we moored up on the river bank. I was so peckish after spring cleaning I simply had to try everything. And my oh my did i feel full after, it felt wonderful. Lying on the bank with the sun on me. Oh my I’d do it all again Ratty. Please can we do it again."
Mole eventually turned to desperation, something had come over him, he wanted the comfort and the wonderment of that day again. In his mind he didn't care how much he would gain from it, he wanted the fullness and the warmth of that day again.

Rat popped another idea…

Without saying a word he went over to the fire and chucked a couple of logs into it as it was starting to weaken. It then roared and crackled, thanking the rat.

"Now close your eyes Moley" The mole did so...

Beaming with excitement, the rat laid out the two blankets across the floor in front of the fireside and spread a few pillows about the place. He then dashed over to the dining table and the kitchen, then grabbed the plate of leftovers, the bottle of sloe and finally the cake from the pantry.

"You can open them now" Rat was wriggling with anticipation.

Moley opened his eyes and his mind did a little flip in his head.

"Ta da! What do you think" Rat proceeded to make a little flourish with his arms.

The mole couldn't speak.

"It's not as good as the river but I thought it would do as an impromptu affair" The rat had set out a little picnic area similar to their first meeting on the river bank. Moley couldn't believe ratty's stroke of genius and was bowled over.

"Oh my ratty it's wonderful" moles feet waggled in excitement (as moles’ feet do)

"Come, come sit down with me. Tuck in. Tuck in." Rat took Mole by the claw and sat him down on one of the pillows.

"Oh my…I'll only eat if you help me" Mole boldly teased. "I helped you unpack on our first picnic as a favour so you can help me and Green" He said on impulse and willingly giving consent, not realising he had dug himself into a hole that he was very much going to enjoy. (Its a mole pun cry about it)

"Oh this is going to be fun," Rat thought to himself. He didn't want to admit it, but he found that statement hotter than he thought. Watching his boyfriend eat copious amounts of food was one thing but actually feeding him... it was certainly something he could get behind, But Rat wanted to play with the idea first…

“Well since you suggested it then, green..” Rat returned and smiled. “Alright then now let me see..” Rat pondered trying to keep himself collected. He shifted his body over to mole and placed the plate onto his lap forward and frontly. “Eat it. Go on.” The Rat proceeded into a little act and gave mole a smug look the same look mole had given him before dinner.

“But i just sai-” Mole stuttered only for food to be politely placed into his mouth mid sentence by Rat to shut him up.

“Eat up…” He placed a digit on Mole’s lower jaw, and closed it shut with little resistance. “and then if you are good i'll help you…” He added, giving him a kiss on the nose. Rat was excitedly teasing at this point, he was already loving this little ploy on mole. Mole’s little mind as Rat suspected did a 180. He had been pavlov’ed right into rats trap and the praise ambled through him like a spring morning.
The mole swallowed his bite. It was good he thought to himself. The chicken hadn’t been dry at all but soft and tender. His eyes rolled in sheer delight. He had to have more. Mole picked up a few more clawfuls and leant back against the bottom of the arm chair to revel in the delight of the fire and food.

Rat watched on as Mole continued to eat. And he couldn't help himself, Mole just looked so comfortable. He leant over to Mole and placed a paw on his outer thigh feeling the velvet on his trousers.

“Enjoying yourself darling?” Rat added.

Mole shuddered. His fur stood on its ends and a chill ran down his spine. “Ahh…. He’s touching me” Mole thought to himself.

“Mhm” Mole muttered with his mouthful. He was loving this and with that he just wanted to eat so much just to make the moment last longer. He continued on. It felt good…

“Oh don’t you look so calm and pleasant…” Rat certainly at this point was willing to take care of Mole tonight with whatever soft dom shit he was going to pull off.

Mole slipped into a good headspace, and all he could do was let out a small “mmhm” to Rat in agreement. Followed by a few muffled giggles as rat moved both of his paws now to his inner thighs.. A sense of desperation made him speed up his eating. Naturally, Mole was ticklish.

A few mole sized bites later and the rat began to notice something…
Mole’s breathing started to get shallower…

“My dear” rat questioned.. “Do you need some help..”

“Mmhm” Mole nodded slightly exasperated, by now he had finished the plate he was on and everything started to feel a little bit tight. “Belt..” he breathed out still in blissful ignorance as to how much he had eaten…

“Alright alright let me help.. It might make things easier if I loosened it a little.” Rat then took a paw to moles midsection and ran it down until it reached his belt clasp. Mole had borrowed one of Ratty’s naval belts that he had been gifted from the sea rat during his time in one of Cornwall's many harbours. It was blue with a round metal medallion clasp in the center. It was digging into moles fur. Taking caution as to not hurt him, Rat with a tasteful little tug on the strap, released the hook on the medallion and it sprung open with slight vigour as Mole took a deep relieving sigh.

“There that must feel alot better” Rat comforted. Mole took a few short moments to catch his breath.
“My dear chap you have eaten quite a bit now haven’t you”

“Mhm yes thank you, but I don’t think i'm quite done Rat…” Mole after this tried to sit up and hiccuped a little, giggling as he did so.

“Well old chap how about we take a little break hmm..? You have done well so far and I think in a bit we can share some of that cake together?” Rat felt rather pleased with his mole but he wanted some cuddles and to check in on how he was doing before things kicked up a notch.

“That sounds nice..” Mole scooched over to ratty and proceeded to lean into his lap, picked up one of the blankets and rolled himself and Rat in it.

“This has been a wonderful evening so far Ratty, thank you for doing this with me” mole let out a hiccup, and blushed.

“Its my pleasure, I’m glad you are enjoying yourself.” Rat placed a paw on mole on his head..

“Thats nice oh my…” Mole loved having his fur pet, as Moles have fur that goes both ways, Rat always took for the opportunity to do so.

“Something tells me you are really enjoying this…” Rat teased wanting to get a proper admittance from mole.

“No way Sherlock…,” Mole continued. “You would be the authority” And then he had a topping idea.. he grabbed for his glass and topped up the rest of his drink and proceeded to down it in one go. And shook his head in recoil. It was warm and soothing, and quite strong despite being mixed with lemon and sugar.

“Moley!” Rat raised his voice in concern “That’s gin you aren't supposed to down it…” He took the glass from Mole’s claws.

“It's a palette cleanser plus I've eaten…A Lot…and cake later. I think it'll be okay to get drunk… it will make it more fun…”
“Aha!…” Rat chuckled. “That's how it is! suppose I had better take a few swigs myself then..” Rat then joined in. He paced himself more than Mole did, taking rests to shower his mate with kisses, as the alcohol in Mole's system was kicking in quickly and concerningly too. Rat knew his limits.

Around tenish minutes later, after the pressure in Mole had exerted itself, Rat then took his sights onto the chair…
“Alright then duck, shall we continue?” Rat asked, politely withdrawing from their hug.
“Yes-s please Ratty…” Mole gave a longing and direct look into Rat's eyes… oh my was he feeling it. He tried to sit up straight, his eyes started to dart along the room and his head spun. Rat was having none of it, and put mole back into his lap.

“Ah… Hang on a minute… Forget I said anything about continuing…Right then...We need to go over a few things as the situation has changed.” Rat took care of his mole very seriously, especially if alcohol was involved.

Mole, being smaller than most river bankers aside from the mice, was certainly a lightweight…at least in the context of alcohol. Never having tried sloe before, he suggested it on a whim knowing it was rat’s favourite drink. Rat knew his limits when it came to sloe, Mole didn’t. So rat’s concerns were in fact justified.

“Mmmm but cuddles,” Mole slurred. He had certainly drunk too much for a mole.

“Ahh but see, we can cuddle in the chair and besides… Someone decided to drink sloe and not dilute it with enough lemon juice, so therefore that someone needs to go to bed.”

“Oh blowwh… but the cake, and and mmm silly vole ” Moles heart dipped. his impulses had gotten the better of him.

“Si-Silly vole? Moley, you know I prefer Ratty. It's less formal,” Rat had always made this a very clear statement.

“But it rhymess! I could be a poet” exclaimed Mole with drunken emancipation.

“Rhymes with what?” Rat questioned.

“Mole! We couldd rhyme, our names could rh-” Mole was getting far to excited for Rats liking, He didn't want to wake Badger.

“Mole.” Rat interrupted.

“Y-ea?” Smiled Mole.

“Bedtime. We can have cake tomorrow evening and go up to pans island on a date.” Rat was being serious now.

“Mmm but touch?” Mole glumly fiddled with his fingers.

“Mole, ducky… I love you, however you are drunk as anything right now. Hang sensuality, I just want you in bed, i'll still give you cuddles. Come on…Let’s get you off the floor and make you feel comfortable.” Rat then picked up the drowsy mole, a little heavier than usual, and plopped him into Badger's chair. He made sure to place a few pillows behind mole and wrapped him in one of the blankets. Oh it was as cozy as anything.

“Hold tight it'll be two seconds…I just need to go get something from the kitchen…” The rat returned as quickly as he left. He walked in with a glass. “Tada! Even better than cake, some water! Drink up Moley and then we can go to sleep.” Rat was quite looking forward to getting a good night's rest.

“Moley?”

No answer came.

“Moley?” Rat whispered.

Moley had fallen asleep.

“Thank goodness for that”, Rat put down the glass and sighed. He planted a kiss on Mole's nose. Before turning in Rat did the dishes as Badger had asked and made sure the hearth was still burning. And finally he too drifted off, and the two of them slept very well that night until dawn.

Notes:

Yes I had to look up when Sherlock was released. Also yes the sloe is a nod to the W.Horwood sequels.
Surprisingly this chapter took a different turn to how I envisioned it being, but I think it turned out for the better.
It's already dirty enough, but the first draft was DIRTY.

Also playing into Mole's impulses, of which are driven by his curiosity ahah.

Next chapter might be a while we shall see x

Chapter 3: Bijou Riverside Hangover : Part 1

Summary:

Mole and Rat leave Badger's house and head back to Rat's place. But Mole is hungover.

Notes:

TW : Mentions of vomiting

Otter is female. I wanted to involve the musical and the book, so Portly and Portia are both included.

The next morning as dawn arose the rat and the mole had slept in. They found the comfort of badgers chair and were huddled up together under the blankets.

The water rat no longer found the badger's house to feel so oppressive and so naturally he woke up first. He very quietly manged to wriggle himself out of the chair, without waking his mate, and began to gather all of his and moles belongings so that they could head off as soon as Mole was ready. He set everything out on the dining table, he double and triple checked that he had everything and by jove he did. He sat and waited a few hours for Mole to wake up preparing breakfast for the trip ahead to go back to the riverbank.

After preparing breakfast, Rat sat down by the hearth scribbling down some poetry, when suddenly rustles came from the chair opposite. Mole had woken up.

“Ahh Moley you are awake good morning old chap.” Rat answered with a delighted little smile

“Owh bother” the mole groaned placing a palm to his head.

“Oh dear…Ducky…You are hungover aren’t you? It’s alright look I’ve got some water here for you” rat held out a glass to his mate and let him sip slowly.

“Headache…” Mole didn't want to speak much at the moment, he was too tired and hungover.

“Three drinks last night old chap. Each of them stronger than the last. You really shouldn’t have gone and done it.” Recalled the rat, imperiously concerned. Due to his rather small size the mole, despite how much he had eaten the previous night, had not managed to equate how much he had drunk.

“I’m sorry Ratty…I-” The mole, a little glum, looked down and twiddled his digits.

He was soon interupted by the rat raring to get back to his river.
“Water under the bridge. Look we need to get going. Badger will be up soon, you know how he likes his privacy this time of year, despite our agreement. I have a recipe for a hangover cure-however I don’t remember the ingredients. So we must get home.” Rat dismissed and got mole up onto his feet.

It took Mole a while to get to the beginning of the tunnel, he had a pounding in his head and felt himself shaking, but at least eating breakfast had helped his situation a little bit.

The tunnel felt cold this time of year only to be lit up with a small lantern that was being held by mole.

Not much of a word was passed between the two of them on the way back until they reached the middle of the passage.

Rat broke the silence.

“Moley? Are you alright old chap? You have been quiet all walk.” He asked inquisitively with a twinge of concern in his tone.

“I’m fine Ratty. Let’s just get home.” Mole said rather abruptly.

Ratty after this had clocked on that something was definitely going on, but he decided now was not the time to pry. All Rat proceeded to do was to take Mole's hand in his as they walked along.

That action in itself was enough for Mole to feel comforted and he let out a soft look into rats eyes as if to say “thank you”

“We can sort something out when we get home ducky…” from rat came a soothing voice and he lightly squeezed the shaking moles hand.

In those moments nothing needed to be said. They both needed each other and that was that.

A light proceeded the end of the tunnel at last. It was the middle of the day and the river ran just over the edge of the wild wood. The water glistened taking in the refections of the sun, it felt warm compared to the tunnel. A few rabbits played about in the autumn leaves as they bounded over each other in a game of leap frog. Their tired mother who had been watching from afar was attempting to scold them for getting dirt in their fur but rabbits being rabbits, they always refused to listen.

Mole and Rat had made their way towards the riverbank strolling along trying to find where ratty had moored up his boat. It was tied to the same willow tree he had left it on. Thank heavens. Rat had been excited to get back on the river again. Every time he had to leave for the wild wood he missed it dearly and each reunion gave him such elation and wonderment. Today she was calm and the current was heading with them, which in turn was good. It meant Rat could take it easy and let her drift as he didn’t want to disturb his partner's stomach too much.
Mole never got seasick, at least not now. He used to, when he was first taught how to row, there had been moments. The hangover was Rat's bigger concern. Mole always threw up and he had done a good job so far avoiding it today. Untying the mooring delicately with his paws, the rat placed the cake and the lantern underneath the seat where mole sat. This was the usual home of the luncheon basket that the both of them loved so dearly.

“Right then come on old fellow, I’ll help you into the boat.” Rat exclaimed, holding out his paw to Mole. Taking his hand the Mole stepped onto the boat with a slight wobble and then managed to plop down on the seat. He took a few of the pillows arranging them so that he could bury his face between them and lie down. The sun was shining a bit too brightly, so protecting his eyes from further migraine was a good idea.

The Rat started to paddle downstream and it was peaceful… so peaceful in fact the mole alike the river had drifted of to sleep. Thinking to himself Rat wondered about how sweetly Mole was sleeping. Curled up between the pillows he looked so content, fur basking in the fall sunlight. He rowed on further pondering about poetry and some words as if by magic flowed into his mind.

However soon Rat lost his train of thoughts by a set of three trails of bubbles rising up from beside the boat. His oars came to a halt to slow down.

Three heads sprung up from out of the water, three round noses and six beady little eyes. It was the otters.

“Mr Rat! HELLO MISTER RAT!” Exclaimed the twins in sheer excitement bobbing up and down in the water.

“Shh Mole is trying to sleep!” Whispered Rat in a stern tone.

“Sorry Mr Rat…” The twins were quick to apologise to Rat, having both great respect for him and mole after they had been saved by them on several occasions.
Portly being dragged back from Pan’s Island and saving Portia from the clutches of the dastardly weasels during the fight of Toad Hall, respectively.

“Thank you twins. So where are you off to Mrs Otter?” Asked the Rat in a lowered tone shifting his body over to face them.

“To the weir, up past Pan’s to catch dinner, thought I’d bring these two scoundrels along with me. Is Mole feeling alright?” Otter replied scruffing the two children on their heads.

“Well he will be as soon as he is home, under the weather at the moment, We’ve just come back from Badger’s, had a bit of a run in with some sloe last night. We are hopefully going to be heading up to Pan’s Island later ourselves this evening for a spot of cake. That is, if Mole perks up.” Explained the Rat picking up the oars again to set off. “Will we be seeing you at Pan’s then later?” Asked Rat.

“No. It will be bedtime for these two by then, we shall see you soon say goodbye to Mr Rat children” said Otter talking to the twins waving a little goodbye.

“Bye Mr Rat. Get well soon Mr Mole.” replied the twins, Rat gave them a gentle nod of acknowledgement and the three of them soon hurried up the stream.

Rat eventually rowed back to his dwelling, the little bijou residence sat by the riverside. It was quaint enough, being the perfect size for both himself and Mole to keep each other company. It did however feel very snug when they were often given the task of babysitting the otter’s children whilst she was away.

Rat moored up his boat to the decking. He tried his best to not wake the mole up whilst putting the cake away, but to his efforts Mole had been stirred.

“Are we here Ratty? It’s cold…” Mole asked, shivering trying to catch warmth from the pillows.

“Yes of course, now let me put the cake away and let's get you inside nice and warm” Rat did put the cake inside and started to get Mole out of the boat when he returned. He let a paw out and mole held onto it. His hangover was still present. As Mole tried to stand up he felt a massive rush flood into his head and a dizzy spell caught him off guard.

“I really don’t feel well Ratty,” Mole said, a flush of nausea flowing into him. He placed a foot on the edge of the boat to get out when all of a sudden it slipped under the pressure of his shaking.

And SPLASH.

The Mole fell in the water and took the Rat with him.

Notes:

This chapter is cut into two as the next part is planned to be heavy and will take a while to write.

I apologise in advance for what I am going to put Mole through.

Chapter 4: The Prince and the Poet - Bijou Riverside Hangover : Part 2

Summary:

Mole and Rat fall in the water.

Notes:

TW : HEAVY VOMITING

Ahah get ready this is a big one. I apologise in advance.

The water came as quite a shock to both of the animals, it felt cold and harsh against their soft fur. It encapsulated them both with a freezing sting and for a few seconds the mole felt his whole body tense up in fright and he started sinking quickly despite knowing how to swim. The water closed over him, dark and suffocating. Mole’s world dissolved into an unholy whirlpool of confusion, panic, and disorientation.

The river, once so inviting, now seemed a vast, oppressive force, pulling him down deeper with each passing second.
In dropping down into the water he let go of Rat and thus as he was sinking the vertigo kicked in and he started to lose sense of which way was up. His instincts after the fatal few seconds started to set in and he suddenly started flailing about in the water. Trying to reposition himself upright, all whilst holding his breath. His body felt weak. Especially for the fact he was hungover he struggled to find any way of direction and panic set in. The cold hit in waves of pain down his body. Strike after strike after strike. His heart pounded in his chest, and the world around him was a blur of watery gray. His lungs felt like collapsing in on themselves and it hurt. He was starting to run out of breath despite only being down for a few seconds… and the water started to hit his throat… All Mole wanted to do at this moment was breathe.. But he couldn’t.

The mole was drowning.

Rat on the afterthought was not expecting to be dragged into the water at such a pace, He was used to the cold water, He was used to swimming and quickly recovered. Realising that the boat had capsized when he resurfaced his mind very swiftly went into going back under. Not saying a single word in panic his head went back under and tried to grab a hold of moles chest, He was flailing with effort and it was hard to get a good grip on him. It took the rat a while before he could get Mole to the surface again. The mole coughed and spluttered resurfacing for light.

“That's it. I've got you, I've got you. Float on your back and I'll do the rest!” Rat shouted, moles ears still being under the water it was hard to get a word out to him. Rat kicked as hard as he could, dragging the Mole onto dry land. The river’s grasp loosened, and Ratty hauled him out of the water, back into the safety of the dock. For a long moment, Mole lay on the floor of the dock, his chest heaving with labored breaths. His limbs were limp, and his body felt as though it had been drained of all strength. Ratty, ever the calm and collected presence, watched over him, his face a mask of concern.

“Mole! Ducky, you’re alright! You’re safe,” Ratty said, his voice warm but tinged with panic. He had not realised how badly his mate had been struggling until the moment he saw Mole’s form in the water.

“I... I...” Mole tried to speak, but the words were caught in his throat, a tight knot of nausea rising within him. He had been so close to drowning. The cold fingers of the river still gripped at his senses, and his stomach twisted with terror and exhaustion. It churned violently, as though the river itself had entered his very body, threatening to expel everything inside him. Before Mole could stop it, he lurched forward, his body convulsing as his stomach rebelled against the lingering taste of salt and water. His throat burned, and the first wave of vomit came up quickly, splashing over the side of the dock and into the water with a sickening splash. It was a bitter, acrid taste, and Mole barely had time to catch his breath before another wave of nausea hit him. He bent forward again, gasping, his stomach twisting painfully. The bitter liquid rose once more, and before he could get a breath in, he expelled it violently. The contents of his stomach spilled out with an uncontrollable force, making Mole’s head spin even more. Each wave seemed to rip through him, and he couldn’t stop. It felt like his very insides were being turned inside out.

“Oh, I’m so sorry,” Mole mumbled between desperate gasps, still heaving, the sour taste lingering on his tongue. His body was trembling, soaked through with cold sweat, and his limbs were too weak to stop the shaking. “I didn’t... I didn’t mean to—”

“Mole, it’s alright,” Ratty said gently, his voice soothing as he rubbed Mole’s back, trying to ease his discomfort. “You’re fine. You’re okay. Just breathe, Mole. Just breathe.”

But Mole couldn’t stop. His body was still convulsing with the aftershocks of the panic, and each time he thought he might settle, another wave of nausea hit him. The dry heaves took over, and he hunched over, his paws clutching his stomach as he bent at the waist. Ratty moved beside him, careful not to startle him, keeping his presence constant and gentle.

“I just—Oh, Rat!” Mole gasped, his voice choked with emotion. “I thought I... thought I was going to die. I didn’t know what was happening. I was so scared.”

“You’re safe now, Mole,” Ratty reassured him, his voice firm but tender, “It’s all over. You’re okay.”

But Mole’s stomach wasn’t listening. He let out a strangled noise before bending forward once more, retching painfully. This time, his body seemed to rebel even more violently. He felt weak, humiliated, the sheer force of the vomiting leaving him powerless. His head was spinning, and with each heave, he felt himself slipping further from control. Ratty leaned over, his paws pressing gently against Mole’s trembling back.

“Mole, look at me,” Ratty urged, his tone insistent but comforting. “It’s alright. Just breathe in, nice and slow. Let it pass.”

Mole shook his head weakly, his breath hitching as he struggled to comply. “I—I can’t stop... I...”

“You will,” Ratty said quietly. “You’ve already made it through the worst of it.”

Mole swallowed hard, tears welling in his eyes as the last of the sick feeling finally ebbed away. His body stilled, though he was left weak, aching from the violent retching. His chest was sore from the strain, and his fur was damp with sweat. For a long moment, he just sat there, breathless and broken.

Rat’s biggest concern was now getting Mole inside warm and dry in his abode.

“Darling, can you move at all? We need to get you inside you are in shock…” Rat started looking at the poor creature beside him.

Mole was shaking. Cold. Weak.

It wasn't long before Rat made the decision to pick up the soaking wet Mole and place him beside the fire. He carried him through the house not caring a single wit about the floor getting wet. He placed him down and ran straight to the bathroom grabbing several towels (and a sick bucket) for both him and his mate.

“Here old chap… Sit tight, I'll get the fire going.” Rat said, wrapping a towel over mole’s wet fur. He swiftly lit the fire and helped his mate dry off and comforted him over the shock of the afternoon. The Mole snuggled into his blanket for a while shaking endlessly but warming up to the soft glow of the fire before him and the soggy Rat rubbing him down to get him dry. “Now do you fancy a warm drink duck?”

“A-a drink? Yes please, that would be wonderful Ratty…” Mole stuttered. It was the first words uttered in about ten minutes or so, and it was a welcome gesture in Mole’s mind. Rat scurried over to the kitchen, looking rather bedraggled but still in high spirits as usual.

Mole however felt downtrodden. How could he have been so stupid to fall in the water like that? How could he have been so stupid as to drink too much last night? Overthinking had started to cloud his judgement. It wasn’t that he didn’t enjoy last night… He loved it in fact, but the headache and feeling so ill and sorry for himself journeyed into the act of sitting and staring into the fire…

Rat walked into the kitchen and closed the door behind him carefully… He took a deep sigh of relief,

“Thank Pan he is okay.” Rat muttered to himself. Despite his overly calm and collected demeanor, he had felt the fur on his back finally stand down at ease. He was stressed. He hadn’t felt this way since his time talking to Mole after the hypnotising encounter with the sea rat. There was a feeling… A twinge that he might have lost one of two things that meant the most to him.

Mole.

He almost lost him to The Beyond.

A tear streamed down his face, just a single one. He kept himself together well. But now was not the time to cry. He needed to make a drink and find the recipe book for moles hangover cure. He boiled a kettle over the stove with hot water and made for the cupboards sifting through his books… and then he found it.. Ginger root and coconut water.. He was out of both… Obviously he would have to go and get some from somewhere.

So there were four options :

1. There was Otter who lived the closest, No that wouldn’t work because she was out with her children.

2. Returning back to the wild wood to Badgers… No. Too far.

3. Mole End? No. Most of the food was kept here.

4. And the town? He couldn’t possibly. Too far again.

There was only one thing for it. His last resort.

Toad Hall.

Whistling from the kettle made Rat free from the thought and he returned.

“Here you are… I made you some redbush and vanilla tea. Are you feeling better now?” Rat brought in two big mugs for the both of them and placed them on the small coffee table beside Mole. The mugs were decorated and labeled “Prince” and “Poet”. Toad had given these mugs to Rat as a gift and when the four friends all sat down for afternoon tea at Rat’s house they were brought out. Badger and Toad’s had been left in the cupboard for now but they were justly labeled as “Soldier” for Badger and “KING OF THE ROAD” for Toad.

Obviously.

Redbush was Moles favourite drink, he took the mug and wrapped his claws around the handle. Sipping from it he felt all of his emotions flooding to the surface. He looked at Rat who was just getting comfortable and Mole started to well up.

“I’m sorry Ratty…” Said Mole trying to choke back his tears, hiding himself within his lap.

“Sorry for what dear fellow?” Rat put down his drink and placed a hand on his mate’s shoulder.

“I-I just wanted to enjoy today and last night,” Mole’s breathing hastened and tears started to stream down his face. “and - and I ruined it for us… I drank to much, I got s-stupid and then I fell of the boat and - and I thought-”

“Shh it’s okay just let it out. You thought what?” Rat leant in for a hug to his partner, trying to wipe away his tears he took off Moles glasses so that the lenses wouldn’t fog up.

“I thought I was going to Dro-” Mole pushed his head into Rat's chest and clutched onto him for dear life. He was shaking in Rat’s embrace, and sniffed as his nose began to get congested.

“Mole.” Rat said stopping mole in his tracks. He didn't want his partner thinking the worse could have happened. Gratefulness is all the rat could bear. He was just glad Mole was alive and tried to comfort him in the best way he could.

“Y-yes?” Mole sniffed…

Rat’s face dropped and he let out a few tears of his own once more, he let out a deep sigh.

“It’s alright… “ Ratty gently lowered his tone, there was no concern in his voice. “You are safe here now. You are safe. I will never let anything happen to you. Not in Pan's life.” He was determined to bring Mole some solace after today's event.

“I just, I feel like a burden… You are helping me and looking after me and - and you are far too good to me Ratty. You deserve the world… I’m sorry…” Mole snivelled. He thought about everything the Rat had done for him, teaching him to swim and row, taking him out on the river and dropping everything if Mole needed him. He didn’t deserve all that…

“Who needs the world? That's far too much responsibility if you ask me. Give all that to Toad.” Rat gave in and tried to lighten the situation. “I've got everything I could ever need. Good friends, the river and most importantly you.” He tilted up his partner's face towards his own and looked him directly in the eye with a comforting smile, Tears still weeping lightly. “Mole, I love you to bits… Nothing- absolutely nothing is going to change that. We all have our ups and downs, Remember how you felt when Toad came back from jaol? You just were glad to see him home, even if he had made all those mistakes. I’m with you Ducky.” He planted a kiss on Mole’s forehead.

“Ratty, you are crying too?” asked Mole, realising that he had made Rat well up.

“I’m… just glad you are okay.” Rat returned with a smile wiping away his tears. He cupped the Moles face with his paws and gently caressed his cheek with his thumb.

“Thank you ratty…” Mole replied leaning into rats touch. He smiled back.

“And besides that we have cake later… I enjoyed last night so you certainly didn’t ruin it. You even called me a vole, which I thought was rather cute.” Rat tittered, Resorting back to his playful ways seemed to cheer up Mole and he was glad of it.

“I forgot about that. And I suppose I did enjoy last night too.” Mole giggled.

His paroxysm had passed.

“Good. Feeling better now?” Rat asked, placing his paws on Mole’s shoulders once more.

“Yes thank you. Silly vole.” Mole jested.

With this Rat got to his feet.

“Cheeky.” Teased the rat, giving his mate a tap on the nose with his tail. “Right on that note, I have to go and call on Toad. He will have everything I need for your hangover as I have run out. So go get comfy up in bed and I will be back shortly… By the evening you will be as right as rain.” He cleaned up the little prince’s glasses and placed them back upon his head.

“Didn’t you say Toad was busy planning something?” Asked Mole, He remembered that Rat had mentioned this last night at Badger's set and was curious.

“Yes I did. But remember it’s never a bad time to call on Toad.” Rat winked.

“Alright then send my love over to Toady.” Replied Mole, He stood up with a wobble, His legs feeling a little weak still, took Ratty’s hand and walked him to the front door.

“Ill be back soon. Keep well. I love you ducky.” They both looked into each other's hearts. The fire glowed behind them. Rat being ever so gentle leaned in with a fine touch and the two of them kissed each other with thanks and adoration.

Nothing was going to separate these two.

“I love you too,” Mole reciprocated back, Rat turned towards the door to leave. “See you later, Water Vole!” Mole giggled once more.

“I heard that! I’ll get you back for that later!” Rat teased.

With all being said and done Rat walked out the door to head to Toad Hall and Mole finished off his tea and snuggled right into bed.

Notes:

YEAP I DID THAT TO THEM IM SORRY. (I'm not sorry)

Also midway through writing this I realised that I forgot in Chapter 2 that Badger literally has a guest room. Oh Well I'm putting it down to Rat likes a big comfy chair lol.

Yes I did reference Soldier, Poet, King by the Oh hellos and The Little Prince.

Also we finally get some Toad action in the next chapter :D

Chapter 5: The Poetry Of Harvest! The Only Way To Celebrate!

Summary:

Rat goes to Toad Hall in search of a cure for Mole's hangover, but Toad has other ideas.

Notes:

I thought I'd give you all comedy after the absolute massacre that was last chapter.

Toad is already aware of Rat and Mole's partnership btw.

The rat closed the door behind him with a gentle shut so as to not disturb the mole and set off towards his little dock. The decking looked as sad as the events that had happened right before it. Remnants of poor Mole’s paroxysm stained the side of the decking and the little blue boat lay capsized upside down in the still chilling gaze of the river.

“I shan't make you apologise… You are as wild and as dangerous as anything I’ve ever known…Yet I love you so dearly,” Rat whispered and looked down to the river below him, his face sunk down and he sighed. “I care for Mole as much as I do you…” He knelt down to his knees and placed a hand in the current. “So I beg of you, please… Never scare me like that again…”

Flowing over crystal banks and still as ever she stared at the rat with longing and sorrowful eyes of silver. She did apologise to him. She pleaded with him for forgiveness resembling that of a jealous lover…

Rat took to recovering the boat and he hung the soggy pillows which Mole had been laying on, atop the washing line out to dry. Tipping over the boat he jumped into the river to retrieve the oars, he then hopped into the boat and started sculling upstream towards Toad Hall.

The gentle river current carried him along as he paddled with a mix of urgency and reluctant amusement. He couldn’t help but muse at the absurdity of it all. “Of all days,” he thought, “to run out of hangover cures!” The afternoon was crisp and clear, with the sun smiling down upon him as if sharing in his predicament.

The journey up the winding river was anything but uneventful. As Ratty paddled steadily along, he hummed an off-key tune, his thoughts churning with worry: What if Toad’s latest extravagant plans turn out to be nothing more than fanciful notions? What if there’s been a shortage of ginger root? And what of dear Mole’s dignity after a night of unbridled revelry? Yet beneath that pragmatic concern, a secret, thrilling excitement stirred in Ratty’s heart—a mischievous delight at the thought of indulging Mole in ways that went far beyond mere hangover cures.

Yet, even as he rowed, his mind wandered to the promises he had made to Mole—a promise of relief and tender care that now depended entirely on the bounties held within Toad Hall’s storied walls.
Before long, the imposing silhouette of Toad Hall emerged from the mists—a place as extravagant as it was eccentric. Upon reaching the bank, Ratty was met by a pair of rather officious footmen who ushered him inside with a flourish.

“Ah, Ratty, my dear friend!” boomed Toad from atop a grand set of stairs, his voice echoing with a blend of pride and mischief. Clad in an outrageously patterned waistcoat and a cap adorned with bright, seasonal foliage, Toad’s enthusiasm was as boundless as ever. “What brings you to my humble—well, magnificently eccentric—abode on this splendid day?”

Ratty sighed, already resigned. “I need ginger root and coconut water. It’s an emergency. Mole is hungover and in bad shape…”

Toad gasped, clasping a dramatic hand to his chest. “Oh dear! A most serious predicament indeed! But fear not, my dear friend, for you have come at precisely the right time. You see, I am in the midst of planning something truly spectacular!”

Ratty groaned inwardly. Of course he was.

Toad swept an arm around his shoulders and ushered him inside before Ratty could protest. The hall was a riot of scattered papers, blueprints pinned haphazardly to the walls, and a table so laden with books and vegetables that it looked like an explosion in a market stall.

“I present to you, Ratty, the grandest, most magnificent event the riverbank has ever seen: The Harvest Festival!” Toad declared, puffing out his chest. “A full month from now, we shall host a celebration of food, revelry, and unparalleled culinary excellence! Cooking competitions! Feasting! And, most thrilling of all, a panel of esteemed judges—including, of course, our dear friend Mole!”

Ratty blinked. “Mole?” he repeated, skeptical. “You haven’t even asked him, have you?”

Toad waved a dismissive hand. “Details, details! He’ll be delighted, I’m sure. A true man of refined taste, your Mole.”

Ratty folded his arms. “And what, pray, makes you think my Mole is interested in judging a cooking competition?”

Toad grinned. “Because he enjoys his food, does he not? And, if I may be so bold, I’d wager he’s taken even more of an interest lately!”

Ratty stiffened slightly, his paws tightening around his elbows. “Well, he’s developed a certain appreciation, yes,” he admitted, a little too carefully. “He’s always been fond of good meals, and he—well, he sees the charm in indulgence, I suppose.”

Toad’s eyes gleamed. “I knew it! Oh, this is marvelous! A man after my own heart! You must be positively thrilled, Ratty, watching your dear Mole discover the joys of a truly hearty feast.”

Ratty felt a warmth creep up his neck, though he forced himself to scoff. “You do love making a spectacle of things, Toad.”

“Only when it’s warranted!” Toad cackled, slapping Ratty’s back. “But let’s not pretend you don’t enjoy the idea of indulging Mole yourself. What better way to show affection than through fine food?”

Ratty felt his whiskers twitch and turned away under the guise of inspecting one of Toad’s many blueprints. “If he enjoys himself, then that’s what matters.”

Toad waggled his eyebrows. “Oh, I’d say he’s enjoying himself plenty.”

Ratty cleared his throat, grasping desperately for an escape route. "Well! A whole month away, you say? My, my, that does beg the question—why all this... chaos? You’ve got enough paper here to republish the entire history of the riverbank in triplicate!"

Toad beamed. “That’s the secret to success, Ratty—preparation! You can’t simply throw together the grandest event of the season overnight! The contests alone require meticulous thought. There will be bread-baking duels, a contest for the most inventive use of root vegetables—and, of course, a grand contest for the best meal of all!” He suddenly narrowed his eyes, a sly grin creeping across his face. “You changed the subject just now.”

Ratty stiffened, a betraying flush creeping up his ears. "What? No, I didn’t!"

“Oh, but you did! I was making an excellent point about Mole’s newfound love of indulgence, and suddenly—poof!—you’re talking about paperwork.”

Ratty sniffed. “It’s personal.”

Toad gasped theatrically. “Even more interesting! Ratty, you must tell me!”

“I mustn’t,” Ratty replied firmly, folding his arms.

Toad pouted, then clasped his hands together and dropped to his knees with great theatricality. "Oh, please, Ratty! You simply must tell me! I shall wither away with curiosity! My health depends on it! My very soul!"

Ratty groaned, rubbing his temples. "Toad—"

"I shall never sleep again! Never eat! Never—oh, wait, no, I shall still eat, but it will be a joyless experience! A tragedy upon the dinner table!"

"Toad."

"My friend! My confidant! Tell me! Enlighten me! I beg—" And then, as suddenly as he had started, Toad stood up, dusted off his sleeves, and adjusted his cravat. "Ah well, never mind then." He strolled away as if nothing had happened, whistling cheerfully.

Ratty stared after him, half-exasperated, half in awe of his sheer absurdity.

Ratty arched a brow. “And who, exactly, is competing in all of this?”

Toad waved his hand vaguely. “Oh, everyone, I expect! Except for you, of course. That would be entirely unfair.”

Ratty blinked. “Excuse me?”

Toad grinned. “You’re spoken for, my dear chap! If Mole is judging, we can’t very well have his devoted partner competing, now can we? Scandalous conflict of interest! No, no, I shall have you judging as well.”

Ratty huffed. “You seem awfully confident in all these decisions, considering you haven’t actually consulted anyone. And might I remind you that Mole and I are your friends, Toad? Even if we were both judging, it would still be biased—by your standards.”

Toad waved a dismissive hand. “Oh pish-posh, Ratty! That’s what makes it all the more thrilling! A festival judged by the finest palates in the land—what could be fairer? That’s what visionaries do, Ratty!” Toad declared, throwing his arms wide. “We lead!”

Ratty pinched the bridge of his nose. “You drive me to the brink, Toad.”

Toad patted his shoulder, unfazed. “And yet you adore me for it.”

Shaking his head, Ratty exhaled. “Just—please tell me you have the ginger root and coconut water.”

“But of course! You doubt me? Ginger root of the finest quality! And behold—fresh coconut water, imported all the way from the farthest reaches of the market stalls.” With that, Toad reached beneath a nearby table and produced an elaborately wrapped parcel tied with autumn leaves and twine.

Ratty unwrapped the package with the care of a man entrusted with a precious remedy. Nestled inside were fragrant bundles of ginger and sleek bottles of coconut water, accompanied by a handwritten note in Toad’s flamboyant scrawl:

“For Mole, the most discerning of hangover survivors—may your mornings be merry and your remedies ever potent!”

This wasn’t the first time Rat had come over for hangover ingredients… Toad had this prepared.

Ratty took the items gratefully. “At least you’ve come through where it counts.”

Toad winked. “Always do, my dear fellow.”

He paused, tilting his head. “But tell me, Ratty—how did Mole end up in such a state? I don’t recall him being one for overindulgence at the tavern.”

Ratty cleared his throat. "It wasn't at the tavern—it was at Badger's. He drank some sloe and lemon. Mostly sloe."

Toad cackled. "Oh, splendid! Mole, the reckless reveler! I must hear all about it later. But hang on—sloe and lemon? That's your favorite drink, Ratty! What on earth was Mole doing drinking your drink?"

Ratty visibly tensed, his whiskers twitching as he struggled to maintain composure. "I—I don't know! He was just—trying something new! No reason! No particular reason at all!"

Toad's grin widened like a cat who had just spotted a particularly interesting mouse. "Oh-ho! Now this is interesting! Did you, perhaps, encourage him? Hmm? A little nudge? A gentle persuasion—"

"Toad!" Ratty barked, his ears now positively burning. "That’s enough! Hang it!"

Toad let out a long, exaggerated sigh. "Oh, very well! Keep your secrets, Ratty. But I know something is afoot!"

With supplies secured, Ratty made his way back toward the door, pausing just long enough to glance at Toad’s wild assortment of festival plans. “I’ll believe this grand festival of yours when I see it,” he said dryly.

“Oh, you’ll see it, Dear Ratty. You’ll feast upon it! And you’ll be thanking me when Mole is the happiest, little judge this riverbank has ever seen.”

Ratty rolled his eyes, though a small, secret smile tugged at his lips as he turned to go. As much as he protested, he couldn’t deny a quiet, private delight at the idea of Mole enjoying himself so thoroughly. As he rowed home, the river calm beneath him, Ratty let himself imagine it: Mole, pleased and content, savouring the best dishes the festival had to offer.

It was a pleasant thought—one he’d never admit to Toad, of course.

But perhaps, just this once, the blasted Toad had a point.

Notes:

Toad catches on to absolutely everything. He's known Rat long enough to pick up on his tells lol.

I think I prefer writing these chapters shorter and more frequently. It keeps the motivation going.

Chapter 6: With Great Joy And Contentment

Summary:

Rat returns with Moles hangover cure.

Notes:

I must admit this is short, for the very good reason of the next chapter will be skippable again and it will get dirty as anything. I Mean come on.. Pan is going to get involved it will be freaky...

As Ratty rowed up to the riverbank, he spotted the pillows he had left on the washing line, now dry and crisp from the autumn air. He carefully took them down, giving them a satisfied pat before placing them in the boat alongside the supplies for Mole. With everything gathered, he made his way inside. Ratty stepped into his cozy home, shutting the door softly behind him. The air was warm, scented faintly with autumn leaves and the lingering traces of last night’s indulgences.

"I'm home," he called, but no answer came.

He set the bundle of ginger root and coconut water on the table and let out a sigh. A glance toward the bedroom revealed a familiar shape buried beneath a pile of blankets, snoring softly.
Mole.

Ratty chuckled to himself and crept over to the bedside. The poor fellow looked thoroughly out of commission, his fur slightly mussed, his nose twitching now and then as he breathed. The bucket beside the bed bore evidence of his earlier misadventures, and Ratty wrinkled his nose as he picked it up. “Oh, my dear chap,” he murmured, carrying it away to dispose of its contents.

After thoroughly scrubbing the bucket and setting it back in its place, he set about preparing Mole’s hangover cure. He worked methodically, slicing the ginger with practiced ease, boiling water, and mixing in just the right amount of coconut water and honey. It was a remedy perfected over many regrettable evenings, and he knew Mole would be grateful—once he managed to drink it down.

With the cup in paw, Ratty returned to the bedroom and perched on the edge of the bed. “Mole,” he called softly, nudging his shoulder. “Time to wake up, old fellow.”

Mole groaned in protest, burrowing deeper under the blankets.

“No use hiding,” Ratty said with a knowing smirk. “I’ve brought you something to help.”

Mole peeked out, his eyes squinting blearily. “Mmnn. Don’t want it.”

“You will once you taste it.”

Mole hesitated, then slowly pushed himself upright with a heavy sigh. Ratty steadied him as he took the cup in both paws and took a cautious sip. His nose wrinkled at the strength of the ginger, but he swallowed nonetheless. After a few more tentative sips, he sighed and rested his head against Ratty’s shoulder.

“You’re too good to me, Rat,” Mole murmured sleepily.

Ratty smiled, a warmth spreading through his chest. “It’s my duty, isn’t it? Can’t have my dear Mole feeling miserable.”

Mole hummed contentedly. “Can you stay a bit?”

Ratty hesitated, glancing at the clock. There were things to be done—but then Mole nestled closer, his small body radiating warmth. A request like that, soft and trusting, was impossible to refuse.

“Alright,” Ratty said, shifting to lie beside him. “Just for a little while.”

With a fond smile, he leaned in and pressed a gentle kiss to Mole’s forehead. Mole, eyes still half-lidded with drowsiness, lifted his head slightly, blinking up at Ratty before leaning in to press a soft, sleepy kiss to his lips. Ratty hesitated for only a moment before returning it, his heart swelling with warmth. When they parted, Mole sighed happily, nestling closer into his warmth, his paw resting lightly on Ratty’s chest.

Mole let out a contented sigh, his paws curling slightly as he settled against Ratty.

"Thank you for taking care of me," he murmured drowsily.

Ratty chuckled softly, brushing a stray tuft of fur from Mole’s forehead. "Always, ducky."

The two nestled in comfortably, the warmth of their shared space warding off the crisp autumn chill. As Mole’s breathing evened out once more, Ratty let his own eyes drift closed, letting himself enjoy the quiet, peaceful moment.

Mole smiled against his fur, already slipping back into sleep. Ratty remained still, letting the steady rhythm of Mole’s breathing soothe him. The autumn wind whispered against the windows, rustling the golden leaves outside. The river would be peaceful now, quiet except for the occasional splash of a fish or the distant call of a bird. As Mole drifted into slumber, Ratty’s mind wandered. He carefully shifted, making sure Mole was still comfortably tucked in, and leaned over to the bedside table. With careful movements, he reached for his writing set, dipping his pen in ink, and began to write.

The words came easily, flowing like the river’s gentle glide,
As autumn’s golden touch adorned the countryside.
The harvest moon cradled fields in luminous embrace,
As I had cradled Mole, in his drink’s warm trace.
The crisp air whispered, clearing indulgence’s haze,
As my remedy soothed the woes of wayward days.
The riverbank glowed in the amber light’s gleam,
A lullaby of comfort, a drifting, sweet dream.
The seasons were shifting, yet steady remained,
A warmth ever constant, a trust never feigned.
And snug at my side, nestled small, soft, and tight,
Was my dear little Mole, bathed in autumn’s light.

He wrote in metaphors—about the harvest moon cradling the fields as he had cradled his dear friend through his drunken stupor, about the crisp autumn air clearing away the haziness of indulgence just as his remedy soothed the morning’s regrets. He wrote about the riverbank bathed in amber light, about the comfort found in the changing seasons, about a certain small creature who fit perfectly against his side, warm and drowsy as the last of the summer faded into memory.

Ratty paused, reading over his words. A small smile curled at his lips. Perhaps, just this once, he would keep this poem for himself.

A few hours passed, and as the evening crept in, Ratty gently stirred. The golden light of sunset filtered through the window, casting a warm glow over the bedroom. He turned to Mole, who was still nestled beneath the covers, his breathing soft and steady.

“Mole,” Ratty murmured, brushing a paw along his shoulder. “It’s evening now. Are you feeling any better?”

Mole stirred, letting out a quiet yawn before blinking up at Ratty. “Mm… much better,” he said, stretching under the blankets. “You’re very good at taking care of me.”

Ratty chuckled. “Well, I do my best.” He hesitated before adding, “Do you still want to head up to Pan’s Island?”

Mole’s ears perked up. “Oh, yes, absolutely! I’d hate to miss it.”

“Good,” Ratty said with a nod. “I’ll make us something to eat before we go.”

Mole sat up slowly as Ratty disappeared into the kitchen, soon filling the house with the smell of a simple but hearty meal. As he cooked, he called over his shoulder, “Toad’s planning some sort of grand festival, you know.”

“Oh?” Mole asked, rubbing his eyes. “What for?”

“Harvest, I suppose. Though with Toad, it’s never that simple.” Ratty plated their meal and brought it to the table. “He wants a cooking competition, He wants you to judge. A grand event, he says. Feasts, contests, music. The works.”

Mole chuckled, taking a bite of his food. “That sounds ambitious. And you said he wants me to judge?”

Ratty smirked. “He hasn’t exactly asked you yet, but he’s already decided you will.”

Mole laughed. “Well, I suppose I can’t disappoint him. Though if you ask me, he might be angling for a way to win his own competition.”

“Undoubtedly.” Ratty shook his head.

Mole chuckled. “Typical Toad.”

Once they were finished eating, Ratty packed up a small cake, a lantern, and a few other essentials before leading Mole down to the boat. The river was calm as they pushed off, the water reflecting the soft glow of the rising moon. The gentle splash of the oars filled the cool air as they drifted downstream.

Ratty glanced at Mole, who looked out over the water with a peaceful expression. “So,” he said lightly, “you’re really up for judging a cooking competition?”

Mole smiled. “It does sound rather fun. And it means I get to taste all sorts of delicious dishes, doesn’t it?”

Ratty laughed. “That it does. You’ll be eating quite well that day, my dear fellow.”

Mole grinned. “And what about you? What will you do?”

“Oh, I was going to enter,” Ratty said dryly, “but Toad said it would be unfair, considering you’ll be judging. So instead, he wants me on the panel as well. I told him it would be biased, you and me both being his friends, but he waved me off.”

Mole raised a brow. “And you agreed?”

Ratty sighed. “Let’s just say he begged until I could bear it no longer.”

Mole laughed. “Oh, Ratty, what a time we’re in for.”

They drifted downstream, the lantern casting a warm glow over the water.

It was a perfect evening for a little treat..

Notes:

CAKE TIME BABY (this will take ages to write I swear I've never written smut before)

Chapter 7: Pancakes at the gates of Dawn.

Summary:

Rat and Mole head up to pan's island, and cake ensues

Notes:

THIS IS A SKIPPABLE CHAPTER AS IT INVOLVES FEEDISM AND SEX.

Technically this chapter was finished on pancake day ( hence the brilliant pun of a name )
it just needed a few adjustments.

The river glistened in the late afternoon sun as Ratty rowed his scull towards the enchanting island of Pan, Moley curled up contentedly beside him. As the boat drew near, Ratty steered it towards a secluded cove, a mischievous grin playing about his lips.

"Ooh, are we here already, Ratty?" Moley asked, peering out at their picturesque surroundings. "It's just lovely! And the cake smells so wonderful!"

Ratty chuckled as he leaned over in the boat, then returned a moment later bearing a sumptuous cake, its rich icing glistening. Moley's eyes widened and his nose twitched excitedly.

Ratty just smiled mysteriously. "Never you mind that now, old chap. Come along, let's find a nice spot to indulge!"

They settled on a grassy knoll overlooking the water, Rat set down the cake on a large picnic blanket and produced a soft glowing lantern beside them. The river bank glistened with beauty as a small gathering of fireflies blinked in synchronisation across the silver waters. The Mole sat down and took a big contentful sigh.

“My oh my… Isn’t this just wonderful, I could just lie here under the moonlight with you forever if I could Ratty.” He sprawled himself out on the blanket and snuggled up to his rat. “And to think I was feeling so horrid earlier and now we can just enjoy ourselves thanks to your quick thinking”

“Well it was nothing really, I just wanted you to feel better and you know I would do anything for you,” Ratty added placing an arm around Mole’s shoulders. “Do you remember when you first met Toad?”

“Yes Ratty of course I do.” Mole replied.

“Well I remember when he first offered to take us out in the caravan, We had been living together for a few months by then, and even though I was so hesitant about going on The Life Adventurous, I still didn’t want to let you down. You looked so excited so it was simple I had to go.” Rat said giving a scruff on Mole’s head taking in the air around them.

Something was in the air lingering. Not at all oppressive but a sense of wistfulness and peace.

“Feeling hungry at all, Duck?” He went on eyeing up the cake set aside.

“Well yes a lot actually. Could I please cut into it Ratty oh please!” Mole pleaded.

“Desperate tonight are we?” Rat smirked with a knowing glint in his eye.

“Y-yes- May I cut it?…Please.” Whispered Mole as he was taken aback.

At this moment Rat felt as if teasing was a good measure for a Mole who had waited a good while to get his teeth sunk into such a delectable dessert… Just how desperate could one Mole get for cake? Rat proceeded to pick up the knife and cut a slice of cake and with a pristine little cake fork he started to take small bites out from the ends.

Mole pouted at the cheek of it all.

“You are such a Tar. You can’t tease me like that, Ratty.”

“Tar? That’s a new one, although I do prefer it over vole. I’m flattered.” Rat brushed off Mole’s craving for cake in favour of his new pet name. Tar, short for Jacktar, was used as a nickname for English sailors, Mole had clearly done his research. Still rat continued nibbling at the cake and watching Mole’s eyes roll slightly in his head.

“But- Rat.. Please…” Mole begged.

“Well see I would give you cake but… You haven’t asked me nicely and according to you last night you said ‘I’ll only eat if you help me’ And I think that settles it, don’t you?” Rat was enjoying this.

“I- I forgot! I was drunk!” Mole tried to hide he said this. He knew very well he had mentioned this and his whole face went red and his fur stood up on its end in anticipation of getting caught out in a fib.

“Really? I strictly seem to remember that you said that before you started to down the sloe. This cake is really good you should try it.”

“Oh Blowh. I know what I said. There really is no trying to hide anything with you is there…”

“Exactly my point Ducky, You like it,” Rat proceeded to put down the cake from his lap and place a gentle hand around Mole’s chin and tilted it up. “I know you want this” Rat's paws wandered over Mole's body, his fingers tracing his waist, the shape of his shoulders. Mole's eyes locked onto Rat's, and he felt himself getting lost in the depths of Rat's gaze.
and Rat began to whisper…

“So go on then…Ask.” Rat leaned in for a deep passionate kiss and Mole reciprocated.

“Please… Indulge me Ratty… I do like it, I need it, I need you.”

“Good” Rat presented Mole with his own generous slice of cake. “Here you go, my little Mole” he purred “Eat up..”

Moley's eyes fluttered closed as he savored the first bite, a moan of delight escaping his lips. "Mmm, it's simply ambrosia!" He continued to eat rapturously, Ratty obliging with a pleased smile.
As Rat fed Mole the cake, Mole's eyes grew heavy with desire. He loved being fed, and Rat's gentle touch and soft voice only added to his arousal. He saw love and adoration shining back at him. He knew that Rat understood his desires, and that he was more than happy to indulge them. As Rat continued to feed him, he felt every part of himself proceed with chills.

Rat smiled, his eyes never leaving Mole's face. "You love this, don't you, Mole?" he asked, his voice low and husky.

Mole nodded, his face flushing with pleasure. "Yes, Rat, I do," he said, his voice barely above a whisper.

Rat chuckled, his eyes gleaming with amusement. "I know, dear Mole," he said. "And I'm more than happy to oblige." Each bite sending shivers down Mole's spine.

Mole began to feel a sense of fullness creeping over him. He opened his eyes, looking up at Rat with a smile. "I think I'm getting a bit full, Rat," he said, his voice filled with apology.

Rat chuckled, his eyes gleaming with amusement. "Don't worry, dear Mole," he said.

Ratty suddenly felt a strange shiver run through him. He glanced around, noticing a new presence - the figure of a young man, naked except for a lionskin over his shoulders, standing at the edge of the clearing. It was Pan himself, god of the wild.

"Pan! You're here!" Ratty exclaimed. "But how did you..."

The god just grinned mischievously. "You summoned me with your offering Rat."

Moley looked up, his cheeks full of cake, and his eyes widened in surprise at the sight of Pan. Ratty cleared his throat. "Moley, I must apologize for not warning you of Pan's presence. He has a habit of...dropping in."

Pan laughed.

"N-not at all, it's an honor!" Moley stammered. "Er, would you care for some cake?"

But Pan was already moving towards them, his eyes fixed hungrily on Moley. "I have a different appetite to sate," he purred. "If you'll allow me, little mole..."

Moley gulped and nodded shyly. Pan sank to his knees beside Moley and began to feed him more cake, his fingers lingering on Moley's soft lips. Moley gasped and arched into Pan's touch, Ratty watching the exchange with a building heat. He could see the pleasure and enjoyment written all over Mole's face, and he knew that Mole was in good hands with Pan. Pan's gentle touch and soft voice only added to his desire. He felt his body begin to relax, his muscles releasing their tension as he let Pan take control.

As Moley ate, Ratty felt an urge to explore his boyfriend's body. He reached out, stroking Moley's soft fur with a feather-light touch. Moley gasped and leaned into Ratty's caress. "Oh Ratty," he breathed. "This feels...it's too much!"

Ratty just smiled and continued to stroke him, Pan feeding him bite after bite of sweet cake. Soon Moley was full to bursting, but his eyes were hazy with desire. "Ratty," he panted. "I need...I need..."
Ratty understood immediately.

"Say no more, my love," he said tenderly, pushing Moley gently back onto the grass. Moley spread his legs in invitation.

Rat stripped quickly, revealing his lean, strong body. He lowered himself between Moley's thighs and began to kiss and lick at his most intimate places. Moley keened with pleasure, grasping at Ratty's hair. Pan watched them, one hand trailing lazily over his own body, his cock growing hard. He waited until Ratty was fully buried inside Moley before moving behind Ratty and pressing himself against Ratty's back.

"Let me guide you, rat," Pan purred in his ear. And he did, teaching Ratty how to angle his thrusts to bring Moley the most pleasure. Moley howled as wave after wave of ecstasy crashed over him.
Ratty felt his own climax building rapidly as Pan stroked his body and murmured dirty words of encouragement in his ear. "Yes, that's it," Pan growled. "Claim your mole. Make him yours."

The words sent a shiver down Ratty's spine, igniting a fierce possessiveness within him. He redoubled his efforts, determined to bring Moley to the heights of ecstasy. Moley's cries grew louder, more desperate.

Mole was reduced to just noises.

Ratty obliged, driven on by Pan's encouragement and his own overwhelming desire. He felt Moley tense beneath him, then suddenly stiffen as his orgasm overtook him. The sensation of Moley's passage clenching around him was too much, and Ratty came with a shout of Moley's name.

They collapsed together in a tangle of limbs, panting and spent. Pan chuckled softly as he watched them, still stroking his own hard Instrument. (and no its not his pan pipes)

"Well, well," he purred. "A fine performance indeed."

Ratty raised his head to meet Pan's gaze, a slow smile spreading across his face. "Why thank you, Pan. I must admit, I'm rather proud of myself."

Moley lifted his head groggily from Ratty's shoulder. "Ooh, that was ever so lovely," he sighed contentedly. "Ratty, you're simply wonderful!"

Ratty blushed at the praise and pulled Moley closer, nuzzling his soft fur affectionately. "Your enjoyment was all the motivation I needed." he said sincerely.

Pan raised an eyebrow. "Is that so?" he teased. "I thought perhaps there was more to it than that. After all, you seemed quite...possessive of our little mole."

Ratty felt his blush deepen as he realized Pan was right. There was something more to his desire to please Moley, something deeper than mere physical attraction. But he wasn't quite ready to put a name to it yet.

Moley sensed Ratty's discomfort and gave his arm a reassuring squeeze. "Ratty takes such good care of me," he said softly. "He always knows just what I need."

Ratty smiled gratefully at Moley, then turned back to Pan with a playful grin. "Perhaps it's because I enjoy indulging my dear boyfriend so much," he said airily. "There's nothing quite like seeing someone you love experience such pure pleasure."

Pan laughed, shaking his head. "Spare me the noble sentiments, rat," he said wryly. "I've seen that look in your eye before. You're besotted with this mole."

Suddenly something came over Rat.

“Darling…” He looked over to Mole. “Do you think me and Pan could have a moment to ourselves to talk?”

Pan looked over with a knowing gaze. “Allow me…” With that Pan snapped his fingers and Mole drifted off to sleep peacefully dreaming under the god’s power.

“Now what is it dear Rat?”

“It’s Mole…He’s…”

“I understand it must be hard”

“Isn’t there a way? Anything you can do?”

“You know my calling, you heard my curse, If you want him to be okay you’ll have to pay it in reverse”

Rat whispered under his breath “Why is there always a catch and why do you have to be so cryptic when I need you most… Look I’ll do anything for him, please.”

“You will remember today as he will, and you shall remember the way as you did. you will experience both. I will put him to bed and he will return to himself. When he needs the truth I will call for him with this very passing of words. I will warn you rat this conversation will feel very out of place to him as I need to put it somewhere. So for him this will crop up near the Dawn’s break. Just remember to remind me to send him to sleep when you come back later And head straight to toad hall, you will need ginger root and coconut water for Mole's hangover. All will be explained” Pan monologued. It was the only way.

“Thank you Pan. Thank you… So much” Then Rat turned to leave.

Then something shifted into Rat’s mind like a missing puzzle piece, and so he turned back.

“Hang on... Yes, But I already know all this, We have been through this before earlier in the day,” Said Rat. Deja vu had kicked in.

“So it has been completed. Both His and your memories have come together at last.” Added Pan, returning to his mysterious and aloof form.

“This better have worked, Is he going to hear all of this?”

“Only up until you thanked me a second ago.”

“And the reverse…?”

“Only time will tell. It's already the Dawn's break, For now go and enjoy the festival a month from now.”

And so the deal was done.

Notes:

For the people who have read this chapter thank you lol. also you freaky.

Chapter 8 will be a recap so feel free to skip to chapter 9.

This is the first time I have ever done smut and trust me it was a damn challenge. Also yes THE PLOT THICKENS. It will be explained I promise. In the mean time go read pans poem again in the original book x

this shit is about to get dark :3

Also Pan being an absolute poly legend rn.

Chapter 8: Pancakes (SFW RECAP)

Summary:

technically this chapter was finished pancake day but I thought id do a recap for those who just want a good story.

Hi, Ez here, So here is the recap for chapter 7 for those who are like nah I don't wanna read that.

Basically Rat and Mole go up to pans island and they chill for a bit and they have a really sweet convo which goes like this

 

The river glistened in the late afternoon sun as Ratty rowed his scull towards the enchanting island of Pan, Moley curled up contentedly beside him. As the boat drew near, Ratty steered it towards a secluded cove, a mischievous grin playing about his lips.

"Ooh, are we here already, Ratty?" Moley asked, peering out at their picturesque surroundings. "It's just lovely! And the cake smells so wonderful!"

Ratty chuckled as he leaned over in the boat, then returned a moment later bearing a sumptuous cake, its rich icing glistening. Moley's eyes widened and his nose twitched excitedly.
Ratty just smiled mysteriously. "Never you mind that now, old chap. Come along, let's find a nice spot to indulge!"

They settled on a grassy knoll overlooking the water, Rat set down the cake on a large picnic blanket and produced a soft glowing lantern beside them. The river bank glistened with beauty as a small gathering of fireflies blinked in synchronisation across the silver waters. The Mole sat down and took a big contentful sigh.

“My oh my… Isn’t this just wonderful, I could just lie here under the moonlight with you forever if I could Ratty.” He sprawled himself out on the blanket and snuggled up to his rat. “And to think I was feeling so horrid earlier and now we can just enjoy ourselves thanks to your quick thinking”

“Well it was nothing really, I just wanted you to feel better and you know I would do anything for you,” Ratty added placing an arm around Mole’s shoulders. “Do you remember when you first met Toad?”

“Yes Ratty of course I do.”

“Well I remember when he first offered to take us out in the caravan, We had been living together for a few months by then, and even though I was so hesitant about going on The Life Adventurous, I still didn’t want to let you down. You looked so excited so it was simple I had to go.” Rat said giving a scruff on Mole’s head taking in the air around them.

Something was in the air lingering. Not at all oppressive but a sense of wistfulness and peace.

“Feeling hungry at all, Duck?” He went on eyeing up the cake set aside.

 

And so rat starts to get all teasey about the cake and mole comes out with a new pet name for rat

 

Mole pouted at the cheek of it all.

“You are such a Tar. You can’t tease me like that, Ratty.”

“Tar? That’s a new one, although I do prefer it over vole. I’m flattered.” Rat brushed off Mole’s craving for cake in favour of his new pet name. Tar, short for Jacktar, was used as a nickname for English sailors, Mole had clearly done his research. Still rat continued nibbling at the cake and watching Mole’s eyes roll slightly in his head.

 

And then pan comes in like

 

Ratty suddenly felt a strange shiver run through him. He glanced around, noticing a new presence - the figure of a young man, naked except for a lionskin over his shoulders, standing at the edge of the clearing. It was Pan himself, god of the wild.

"Pan! You're here!" Ratty exclaimed. "But how did you..."

The god just grinned mischievously. "You summoned me with your offering, Ratty."

Moley looked up, his cheeks full of cake, and his eyes widened in surprise at the sight of Pan.

Ratty cleared his throat. "Moley, I must apologize for not warning you of Pan's presence. He has a habit of...dropping in."

Pan laughed.

"N-not at all, it's an honor!" Moley stammered. "Er, would you care for some cake?"

 

and then yeah they do the sims woohoo.

and after all that has finished rat has a mysterious revelation and this happens. He has a real sense of unfinished business.

 

Suddenly something came over Rat.

“Darling…” He looked over to Mole. “Do you think me and Pan could have a moment to ourselves to talk?”

Pan looked over with a knowing gaze. “Allow me…” With that Pan snapped his fingers and Mole drifted off to sleep peacefully dreaming under the god’s power.

“Now what is it dear Rat?”

“It’s Mole…He’s…”

“I understand it must be hard”

“Isn’t there a way? Anything you can do?”

“You know my calling, you heard my curse, If you want him to be okay you’ll have to pay it in reverse”

Rat whispered under his breath “Why is there always a catch and why do you have to be so cryptic when I need you most… Look I’ll do anything for him, please.”

“You will remember today as he will, and you shall remember the way as you did. you will experience both. I will put him to bed and he will return to himself. When he needs the truth I will call for him with this very passing of words. I will warn you rat this conversation will feel very out of place to him as I need to put it somewhere. So for him this will crop up near the Dawn’s break. Just remember to remind me to send him to sleep when you come back later And head straight to toad hall, you will need ginger root and coconut water for Mole's hangover. All will be explained” Pan monologued. It was the only way.

“Thank you Pan. Thank you… So much” Then Rat turned to leave.

Then something shifted into Rat’s mind like a missing puzzle piece, and so he turned back.

“Hang on... Yes, But I already know all this, We have been through this before earlier in the day,” Said Rat. Deja vu had kicked in.

“So it has been completed. Both His and your memories have come together at last.” Added Pan, returning to his mysterious and aloof form.

“This better have worked, Is he going to hear all of this?”

“Only up until you thanked me a second ago.”

“And the reverse…?”

“Only time will tell. It's already the Dawn's break, For now go and enjoy the festival a month from now.”

And so the deal was done.

Notes:

THE PLOT THICKENS.

it gonna get dark.

Also I think its weasel and toad shenanigans next :3 Also we are drawing closer and closer to the festival.

Chapter 9: Travel. Change. Interest. Pudding!

Summary:

Toad makes a giant spotted dick, to try and win his own competition.

Notes:

hurrah dick jokes.

It was a bright autumn morning over the River bank and a month had swiftly passed by and the Harvest festival was only a few hours away. Toad woke up with a thought in his head… How was he going to win his own competition? The whole riverbank was signed up so he had to make something absolutely show stopping. An idea popped into his head that he couldn’t help but deny… Inspiration struck him like a steam train and he was reminded of quite possibly the biggest pudding that was ever made. He would need some help.

It was early morning and the sun was barely peeking over the river. Ratty’s little house was quiet, with Ratty and Mole snuggled up in bed, wrapped in each other’s arms. They’d just drifted into a nice, peaceful sleep when a loud knock at the door shook them awake.

“Who on earth is knocking at this hour?” mumbled Ratty, rubbing his eyes as he sat up. Mole, still half-asleep, stretched and grumbled, “I don’t like being woken like this… especially when I’m so cozy with you.”

Before they could say another word, the door burst open and in tumbled Toad—his coat all askew and his eyes sparkling with his usual wild energy.

“Morning, lovebirds!” Toad bellowed, practically bouncing on his feet. “I need your help, and I need it now! I need a recipe of yours for my competition!”

Ratty frowned, crossing his arms. "Toad, what’s gotten into you? You do realise that Ducky and I are the judges for the Harvest Festival—because you appointed us, I might add! We’re not supposed to help any of the contestants!"

Toad fell to his knees dramatically. "Oh, Ratty, dearest, most honorable Ratty! Have mercy on a poor, desperate Toad! Think of the glory, the triumph, the sheer magnificence of my pudding! The world will speak of it for generations!"

Ratty raised an eyebrow. "The world? Or just you?"

"Details!" Toad waved a hand. "The point is, this is history in the making! Do you want to be the stuffy judge who turned away greatness?"

Mole, rubbing sleep from his eyes, placed a paw on Ratty’s arm. "Oh, let’s help him, Ratty. It’ll be fun, and we can make sure he doesn’t burn down the meadow. Besides, it’s just a bit of advice. Tar, We’re not baking it for him."

Ratty groaned, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Fine. But I swear, Toad, if this turns into another one of your disasters, I’m washing my paws of the whole thing."

"You won’t regret this, Ratty, my good, wise, noble friend!" Toad cheered, leaping up and dusting off his coat. “Oh, ye of caution! I’ve found the secret—the one and only secret—to winning the Harvest Competition!” Toad waved his paw dramatically and leaned in as if sharing a grand conspiracy.

Mole blinked sleepily. “Secret? What secret, Toad?”

With a wide grin, Toad blurted, “I remember in your old cookbooks, Ratty! The one with that faded recipe for the famous Paignton pudding. You remember, right? The pudding that made their heritage railway opening such a hit?”

Ratty snorted. “A hit? A riot, more like!”

Toad snorted with laughter. “I’m going to use that very recipe to whip up the biggest, most outrageous pudding ever made. And then—voilà!—I’ll win the competition and be the talk of Berkshire county!”

Ratty sighed, shaking his head. "As if you aren't already."

Then, with a mischievous glint in his eye, Toad turned his teasing attention to Mole. "Mole, old chap, you’re looking particularly WELL these days. Ratty must be keeping you very comfortable indeed! No wonder you’re always in such good spirits."

Toad being well... Toad would never pass up an invitation or opportunity to barge into Rat and Mole's private life, despite his lack of any concept of boundaries. He simply liked the idea of them being together and couldn't help the thought of being a third wheel to the two lovebird's antics.

Mole’s ears burned bright red. “Oh, hush, Toad! Ratty takes care of me—I can’t help it if I like it!”

Ratty blushed and sputtered, “I—I just like making sure Mole is happy and comfortable! There’s nothing wrong with a little... indulgence.” He cleared his throat, flustered. “And anyway, that’s beside the point!” Ratty huffed, crossing his arms. "And if anyone were an authority on indulgence, it would be you."

Toad clapped his hands excitedly. “Exactly! A well-fed partner is a happy partner, and a happy partner makes the best pudding possible! No wonder you two are always in such good moods—what with all the cozy nights in and Ratty’s top-tier cooking.” He waggled his eyebrows. “Now, come on, show me that cookbook!”

Reluctantly, Ratty got out of bed and led Toad (and a still-grumbling Mole) into the cluttered living room, where an old, dusty shelf held a treasure trove of cookbooks. Ratty pulled out a heavy, burgundy-bound book. “Here it is—the one that’s been gathering dust for years.”

Toad eagerly flipped through the fragile pages until his finger stopped at a yellowed page filled with spidery handwriting. “Eureka!” he shouted. “This is it—the secret recipe for the Paignton pudding!”

Mole peered over Toad’s shoulder, reading the list of ingredients in a sleepy tone. “It calls for flour, butter, suet ,and berries. I suppose that’s what made it so famous back in the day.”

Rat exclaimed “There isn’t anything secret about it at all… it’s just a big spotted di-”

Toad practically vibrated with excitement. “Then that’s what I’ll do! I’ll follow this recipe to the letter—more, or less! And it’s going to be the biggest, grandest pudding anyone has ever seen!”

Mole peeked curiously and rested his head on Rat's shoulder. Ratty being slightly taller than Mole, meant that his shoulder was the perfect height for being very lean-able. "Does it have to be so big?" Mole asked he was still sleepy and took a yawn, almost falling asleep on Rat.

"Is that what you say to Ratty?" Toad proceeded into giggling over childish amusement. In his defence Mole had walked into that one.

Mole and Rat both took a pause in recoil. Mole hid over Rat in embarrassment and started giggling himself. Ratty's ears burned up and his tail flicked viciously with anger. He quickly recovered hearing Mole enjoying himself and simply shook his head. “Toad, scaling up a recipe isn’t as simple as multiplying numbers. You know how ovens work, and you know that a pudding this big could collapse on itself. We might end up with a disaster on our hands!”

Toad waved him off, grinning broadly. “Oh, come now, Ratty! Where’s your sense of adventure? What’s life without a little risk? And if my pudding defies the laws of physics, we’ll call it a revolutionary reinterpretation of dessert!”

Mole gave Ratty a gentle cuddle from behind. “Lighten up, Tar. Sometimes, the best things come from a bit of chaos. And who wouldn’t want to see a pudding so huge it practically has its own postal code?”

Ratty sighed, clearly torn between his sense of duty and his fondness for his quirky friend. “Alright, fine. I’ll help you out, Toad. But we do it my way—I’ll do the maths but We can’t let the other contestants think we’re biased.”

And so Rat did proceed to do the maths making sure that all the proportions would be ready and necessary, He had to be a people pleaser of course.

Bounding out the door with the energy of a caffeine-fueled rabbit, Toad sped over to the station where his trusty, if slightly bumbling, train driver was waiting. The driver, a round fellow with a grin as wide as the tracks, greeted him with booming enthusiasm.

“Oi, Toad! What’s all this racket about?” the driver bellowed, clapping Toad on the back so hard that his cap nearly flew off.

“To craft a pudding of epic proportions, my good man! I’m not just making dessert—I’m making history!” Toad shouted, eyes glinting with a madcap mix of pride and mischief. “This pudding will be so colossal that even Devonshire’s best will look like a soggy biscuit!”

“Ha! You and your impossible ideas, Toad,” the driver chuckled, shuffling toward the little red train parked on the platform. “All aboard this loco of lunacy then! Let’s see if your pudding can out-chug this engine!”

With a theatrical leap, Toad hopped on, and the train—painted a bright, cheeky red—roared to life. As the train lurched forward with a series of comically exaggerated chugs and puffs, Toad threw his arms around the dashboard, grinning like a madman.

The journey quickly turned into a wild scavenger hunt for the most outrageously fresh ingredients. Soon, the train screeched to a halt at a quirky riverside stop. There, by the river, stood Miss Barge—a no-nonsense barge woman known for her sharp tongue and even sharper produce.

“Morning, Toad! What’s got you in such a tizzy today?” she asked, eyeing his motley bundle of ingredients with a mixture of amusement and exasperation.

“To craft a pudding so massive it’ll knock the socks off my Harvest Festival!” Toad announced, arms wide. “I need the best berries, eggs, and a sprinkle of that special something. I’m aiming for culinary catastrophe—in the best possible way!”

Miss Barge snorted. “You? Aim for catastrophe? You’re more likely to set the river on fire than cook a decent pudding, but I suppose that’s half the fun!” With a dramatic flourish, she led Toad aboard her creaky barge, which bobbed and weaved on the river like a tipsy duck. She dumped out crates of plump berries and a basket of eggs that wobbled dangerously as if daring Toad to drop them.

“Catch ‘em if you can, Toad!” she teased, laughing as he scrambled to catch a rolling egg. “They’re as fresh as they come, and if you mess up, I’m sending you back with a bucket of river water!”

“Not a chance, Miss Barge! I’ll have these eggs dancing in my pudding before you can say ‘hullabaloo!’” Toad retorted, managing to secure every ingredient in a haphazard pile.

Refueled with berries and eggs—and a healthy dose of Miss Barge’s mischievous banter—Toad hopped back on his red train. The engine chugged onward, its clattering rhythm matched only by Toad’s increasingly manic excitement. But Toad’s eccentric quest wasn’t over yet. He needed one last ingredient: a touch of magic to make his pudding unforgettable. And for that, he had to consult the one person who always had the answers in the most peculiar way—the gypsy of the riverbank.

The train soon rattled into a ramshackle clearing where, beneath a jumble of overgrown trees and flapping banners, stood a mysterious figure draped in a patchwork shawl and a headscarf that looked like it had seen better days. The gypsy’s eyes twinkled as she regarded Toad with a bemused smile.

“Ah, Toad,” she crooned, her voice a blend of mystery and mischief. “I hear you’re trying to whip up a pudding so big, it might just change the face of dessert forever.” She paused, letting the absurdity of the idea hang in the air. “But remember, my dear, greatness requires just a dash of lunacy.”

With a conspiratorial wink, she produced a small vial filled with a shimmering liquid that looked like it had been stolen from a rainbow. “This here is moonbeam dew,” she explained in a hushed tone, as if divulging a state secret. “Just one drop will bind all your ingredients together in a glorious, explosive finale. Use it sparingly, Whoever eats this won't be able to resist their appetite! ”

Toad snatched the vial with a laugh. “Now that’s a show I wouldn’t miss!” he exclaimed, stuffing the vial into his already bursting satchel. “Thanks, my mystical friend. I’ll make sure it’s the grand finale of the Harvest Festival!”

With his magical ingredient in tow, Toad clambered back onto his red train, which now seemed to be shaking with the excitement of the impending culinary storm. Back in his specially converted carriage—now more reminiscent of a chaotic mobile kitchen than any proper dining hall—Toad began the madcap assembly of his pudding.

“Right, listen up, you glorious ingredients!” he shouted, tossing flour into the air like confetti. “Today, you’re all going to come together and create a pudding so humongous that Devon will be green with envy!” He flung eggs into a giant mixing bowl with reckless abandon, causing a small cascade of yolk to splatter comically on the walls. Berries were heaped in with wild enthusiasm, and spices were sprinkled in with the flair of a carnival barker.

The engine of his red train rumbled along as Toad mixed, stirred, and occasionally danced around the cramped carriage, all while muttering boastful lines and exchanging snappy repartee with his ingredients. “Come on, my lovelies,” he joked, “if this pudding doesn’t win the Harvest Festival, I’ll eat my hat—and then ride the train into the sunset wearing nothing but my hat!”

At the very climax of his chaotic culinary performance, Toad reached for the vial of moonbeam dew. With a dramatic pause that would make a stage actor weep, he uncorked the vial and dropped a single glistening drop into the bubbling mixture. Immediately, the whole concoction glowed with a bizarre, otherworldly light—a sure sign that his pudding was now something entirely extraordinary (and potentially hazardous).

“By the whisk of a wizard, it’s alive!” Toad exclaimed, laughing uproariously at his own exuberance. “This pudding is so big, it’s practically a Tower!” He slammed the lid onto the giant mixing bowl, sealing in the chaos of flavours and the promise of pandemonium.

As the little red train chugged its way back along the winding riverbank, its wheels clattering like a rowdy audience at a comedy show, Toad’s heart pounded with excitement. He couldn’t wait to present his masterpiece at the Harvest Festival, where every curious onlooker and skeptical critic would soon bear witness to his outrageous, over-the-top creation.

Arriving at Toad Hall amidst a frenzy of laughter and incredulous gasps, Toad stepped down from his train with a flourish. “Ladies and gentlemen, prepare your taste buds for the pudding of a lifetime!” he bellowed, proudly unveiling his towering, gleaming pudding. Its layers of creamy custard, wild berries, and mysterious spices shimmered under the sunlight—a testament to a journey of absolute, unbridled absurdity.

A hush fell over the crowd—briefly broken by a snort of laughter and a few clapping hands—as Toad’s pudding, with its sheer audacity and size, loomed over all other entries.

And so the day of the festival had begun.

Notes:

Just a bit of fun History of big puddings and railways. I think the Paignton Pudding would have been the biggest recorded pudding at the time hence why I had too, And with the inclusion of the train it just made sense. Also I made the Gypsy more whimsical and a girlypop.

I quite like writing Toad antics, this was written before pancakes but it still works all the same.

Weasel stuff next!!!

Chapter 10: The Terror of The Wild Pie.

Summary:

weasels get up to no good

As the leaves turned golden and the air filled with the scent of ripe apples, Toad Hall bustled with preparations for the grand Harvest Festival. Every creature of the Wild Wood and beyond eagerly awaited the annual festivities, with the highlight being the coveted best meal competition. Toad, ever the exuberant host, had outdone himself this year, promising a feast unlike any before.

But in the shadowy depths of the Weasel’s den, a sinister—if somewhat haphazard—plan was brewing. Cheryl and Widdle, two of the most delightfully idiocratic stoats you have ever seen, were lost in their gleeful performance, each determined to outshine the other in sheer absurdity. Widdle, balancing on his tiptoes with exaggerated poise, adopted an extravagantly posh voice.

"Oh, Moley dearest, do indulge in this scrumptious tart I've lovingly concocted just for you. It's positively dripping with affection!" Cheryl, with playful exaggeration, leaned forward with mock seriousness.

"Oh Ratty, your generosity knows no bounds! Perhaps just a dainty nibble more—hic!—I simply cannot resist today!" Their laughter burst forth, echoing through the air as Widdle clutched his sides. "Honestly, how do those two manage to keep a straight face amidst all that melodramatic swooning and endless embraces?" he chuckled.

"And Ratty! Forever prancing around with his love-laden verses and that ever-present cravat—oh Moley, do pass the treacle, my sweet!" Cheryl added, fluttering her paws with exaggerated amorousness, mimicking kisses blown into the wind.

Chief Weasel stormed in, his claws clicking sharply against the damp forest floor. "What in blazes are you two imbeciles doing?!" he barked.

The stoats snapped to attention, their grins freezing on their faces.

"Er... rehearsing, Chief!" Widdle stammered. "For, uh, infiltration purposes!"

"Yeah! We need to understand our enemies before we can defeat 'em!" Cheryl nodded earnestly.

Chief Weasel narrowed his eyes. "Understand this—if you two had brains, they’d rattle in your skulls like dried peas. Now shut up and listen, we've got a plan to hatch!"
“We’ve got a problem,” Chief Weasel growled. “That rat. That smug, boat-loving, poetry-spouting RAT. He’s always poking his nose where it doesn’t belong. And worse—he’s feeding that Mole.”

Cheryl gasped. “Feeding him?”

“Proper stuffing him,” Chief Weasel confirmed. “Pies, tarts, biscuits—like he’s trying to turn ‘im into a furry dumpling. And a fat Mole means a slow Mole, and a slow Mole means easy pickings for us.”

Widdle raised a paw. “Could we... just wait? Maybe Rat’ll keep feeding him ‘til he can’t move?”

Chief Weasel stopped pacing and stared. “What d’you think he is, a sofa cushion?”

Widdle looked thoughtful. “Might be. You seen him lately?”

“No!” Chief Weasel snapped. “We’re not waiting for Mole to roll away like a great big pudding. We take matters into our own paws. We get rid of Ratty, and then...” His yellowed teeth gleamed in the dim light. “We take Mole for ourselves.”

Cheryl and Widdle gasped again, this time in horror and hunger.

“Mole?”Cheryl drooled. “You mean—”

“A proper feast,” Chief Weasel said, rubbing his paws together. “And here’s how we do it: The competition. We enter our own pie. A special pie. A pie with a little... surprise.”
Widdle grinned. “Extra seasoning?”

“Rat poison, you nincompoop!” Chief Weasel snarled. “Ratty takes one bite, keels over, and then we swoop in and snatch Mole before anyone knows what’s happening.”

Cheryl scratched her head. “What if someone else eats it?”

“Well, then we have an unexpected casualty and a slight change of plan,” Chief Weasel said with a shrug. “But the point is, chaos! And in chaos, we thrive.”

Widdle nodded. “I like it. It’s evil. It’s cunning. It’s—”

“—Gonna work, so long as you two don’t mess it up.”

The two stoats exchanged glances. They had never successfully not messed something up. But Chief Weasel didn’t seem to notice as he led them deeper into the den, where a crude wooden table had been set up, covered in flour, stolen apples, and something that may have once been butter but now smelled like feet.

“Right,” Chief Weasel said, rolling up his sleeves. “We bake.”

The stoats exchanged nervous glances before Cheryl raised a paw. “Er... Chief?”

“What now?” Chief Weasel groaned.

“What about Toad and Badger? If Rat keels over and Mole vanishes, won’t they start poking their noses in?”

Chief Weasel snorted. “Toad? That bumbling, self-obsessed twit? He’ll be too busy making a spectacle of himself to notice anything. And Badger? Oh, he’ll be in full rescue mode, leading the charge to find poor lost Mole and getting Ratty into emergency care. They’ll be so busy, they won’t have time to sniff around us.”

Widdle nodded eagerly. “Yeah! And by the time they do, we’ll be long gone, enjoying a nice, Mole stew.”

Cheryl’s eyes went wide. “Stew? I thought we were roasting him.”

“We could,” Chief Weasel mused. “Or perhaps a pie?”

“Oh, I do love a good pie,” Widdle agreed, licking his lips.

“Idiots,” Chief Weasel snapped. “Focus! First, we have to make sure Rat eats the right pie. No mix-ups this time.”

Cheryl hesitated. “Er... about that.”

Chief Weasel’s eye twitched. “What?”

“We might’ve mixed up the bowls again...” Widdle gulped. “And maybe... possibly... The rat poison looks a lot like cinnamon.”

Chief Weasel’s ears flattened against his head. “So you mean to tell me... ANY pie could be poisoned?!”

There was a long pause.

“Well,” Cheryl said finally, “technically, yes.”

Chief Weasel took a deep breath. “Right. New plan. We do not, under any circumstances, eat any of the pies.”

“Not even a little taste?” Widdle asked hopefully.

Chief Weasel glared. “Unless you’d like to be the first casualty of our own plan?”

Widdle quickly shook his head. “No, no, no, no! Quite happy being alive, thanks.”

Chief Weasel sighed. “Alright. Despite the usual level of incompetence, this plan is still salvageable. We let the pies be served, and once Rat keels over, we grab Mole. Toad and Badger will be too busy to suspect us.”

The stoats nodded, though Cheryl whispered to Widdle, “You sure he’s thought this through?”

“Shh! Don’t question the Chief, he’ll make us clean out the fox burrow again.”

Chief Weasel clapped his paws. “Right! Let’s get to the festival and put this plan into action. And remember: no eating the pies.”

As the animals slunk off towards the festival grounds, the air was filled with the scent of warm pastries and autumn leaves. Their plan was set, their trap was laid... what could possibly go wrong?

Notes:

currently on cams atm for this having fun we have just had a five min call ready on tech again for LDU its the final night and its fun as anything also I'm sorry for what I'm about to do to Rat... We saw this coming.