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                        The BIG Camping Trip



It's been a few years since the Town of Akatsuki first began it's development. Their new mayor went out of their way, going above and beyond to expand the natural landscape to something more lived in, something for people to find their next home in.


This of course, meant that business was going VERY well for a big round Tanuki, who was sitting behind a work desk, wearing the usual green sweatervest that he'd been known for. New homes were being renovated by villagers hoping to find a home, and he was the only Realtor in the town.


“Two new villagers this week. Oh yes...we're expanding!” Tom cheered in the quiet of his office. He looked to his round belly and gave it some reassuring pats. “Expanding indeed...yes yes! Expansion...”


Checking over the paper work which he had on his desk, he started stacking everything neatly over to the side and leaned into his chair “So much paperwork though.Too much paperwork, not enough rest...no no, not good at all.”


As this thought popped into his head, another one came up. After having cleaned off his desk so that there was not so many papers littering it's surface, he noted the framed photograph on the right handed corner. Red framed, with the image of himself, and his happy home partner Digby, sitting in front of the Happy Home Showcase front entrance.


A lot's changed since then. The Shih-tzu  had competed with him in a rather hearty eating contest a few years ago, back when Akatsuki was more of a village than an official town...That crafty canine somehow had managed to out eat him. And even more surprisingly, had even eaten the Tanuki himself!


It was a wild day that Tom couldn't forget. It was also the moment he'd decided that he just had to make Digby his business partner for the town's development. This worked out great, as they'd never had any animosity towards each other. He didn't get upset that Digby had eaten him, and the cute lil guy even offered himself to the Tanuki as compensation for that day.


“Maybe I'll go see that pooch today. He's been working hard, he deserves a reward.” Tom nodded to himself, sure that he was going to make the Shih-tzu's day.


Without a second thought, Nook climbed out of his chair, no small feat given his girth, and started waddling towards the front end of the store, from there he could see the many different exterior design models that they had available for their villager's to choose from in case they had wished for renovations, and a small desk area that a cute blue otter sat in.


“I'll be away for a little bit Lyle. Do keep an eye on things.”


The blue furred otter simply waved a pencil in Nook's direction. His way of telling the Tanuki that he was listening, but the muttering of happy home ratings told Tom another story. Well...it didn't matter. He had a plan to hatch, and a friend to visit. With a pat of his soft tum, he started waddling out of the building, hearing the subtle chiming of bells as he'd done so.




Not so far down the road within the business district of town, a well dressed Shih-Tzu was showing a couple of hopeful home owners some new designs laid out by past villagers that lived in the town over the years, and left their floor plans with the pooch. Digby took a bit of pride in his work, the happy home showcase was something of a well...show...for most of the villagers.


Their homes would be replicated and exhibited within the Showcase's grounds, which could hold at least a hundred or so buildings without feeling overly crowded. At the moment, he had been showing a purple roofed home to some potential buyers, and while one was not very interested in what he had to offer. The other, a cute little yellow furred hamster by the name of Hamlet, was most definitely interested. He'd even had his head tilted to the side, with a small paw against his chin in thought.


“I'm lovin the style bro! If that other cat isn't going to pounce on this home, I'll take it.” The little Hamster laughed briefly, watching his competitor walking away from the sell then turning his attention back to Digby. “Do we have a deal?”


“Oh yes yes, we have a deal. I will let Mr. Nook, know that you are interested in buying a renovated house of this style.” Digby's cheerful smile was almost contagious, the cute Shih-Tzu just loved to smile when he realized that he'd made another sell in his line of work. “Oh and don't worry at all about payment! You and Mr. Nook can discuss that after your house is built to your satisfaction. Thank you for visiting the Happy Home Showcase!”


Just as he was finishing his small speech to the hamster, there was the topic of their discussion. He watched the Showcase gates swing open, or rather being PUSHED into the open position by the wide brown belly that was concealed by the businessman's sweater vest. “Oh ho ho did I hear my name?” Tom's voice called out in a happy, even jolly tone as his first sight was Hamlet nearly bumping right into his soft tum.


“Whoops! Watch out little guy. This thing can have a mind of it's own!” Tom chortled, belly wobbling with his actions even as he looked down at the yellow furred Hamster. “Did I bump you?”


Hamlet tilted his head up some so that he could get a better look at the town Realtor. With a brief shake of his head, the hamster started making his way around the Tanuki, blushing. “No not at all. I'll be back later so we can talk house! I've spent too much time here and missed my scheduled squatting session!”


Watching the little guy jog off and out of the premises, Nook couldn't help but supress a small giggle. “oh ho ho! He sounds like he will be an exciting character. Is he buying a house?”


The question was directed at Digby, who was straightening out his red business suit, wiping off some of the fur that was inevitably going to collect in the midst of work, and with his work being showing animals of all varieties to future homes, usually a chunk of the fur gathered wasn't his own.


“Of course!” Digby cheered, a happy smile passing his lips as he power walked over to the big Tanuki. “I am sure he will be coming to your office some time today. After his...uh routines.”


That was very good news to Tom. More contracts meant more bells, though it also meant a much more lively town which was equally as important to him. “Ah good good! I look forward to his visit. But this one is more about you. Can we talk? It's not about work.”


Not about work? Well...at least that would mean it wouldn't be anything about job performance, or bells overdue. With a carefree smile, the Shih-tzu replied. “Of course. What is it Mr. Nook?”


“Oh come now. You can just call me Tom. We've known each other and worked with each other long enough to allow that.” Tom nodded his head once or twice, as if it were the final matter on it. “You have been working very hard. So many happy homes and happy villagers. Akatsuki is expanding! But we need to remember that we're people too.”


“Oh yes. We're people too. But I don't get how this isn't work related yet.” Digby's head tilted to the side, a question mark briefly appearing on his head, indicating his confusion.


Nook's belly once again bounced with enthusiasm as it's owner laughed. A smile never left the big guy's muzzle. “I am getting to it don't you worry. You've worked really hard, and I want to reward you with a little getaway. I'm going camping this weekend, and I would like to invite you to come with me. It will give you time to recharge your batteries, and you can eat delicious food by the campfire.”


ohh camping! Digby hadn't gone in a long time. He and Isabelle went on a few camping trips when they were smaller, but after she'd become the new mayor's assistant, and he'd worked in the Happy Home institute, well...there hadn't been time for it. “Oh a camping trip sounds lovely Mr. errr...Tom! But for the whole weekend? Who will manage the showcase those days?”


“Don't you worry about it.” Tom replied cheerfully, his hands clapping a couple times just in front of his ample belly. “I have a temp in mind for you, and Lyle can handle the work load for a couple of days in my office. So...what do you say...?”


Hmmm...it did sound like Tom did think things out. And the sudden invitation led Digby to thinking that the Tanuki had intended to extend the invite all along...whenever he had set aside these plans. It would be rude to say no... “Alright! I think I can do it! When do we leave?”


“We'll leave first thing Friday morning! Make sure you pack some supplies, But I should have everything we'll need.” Tom answered, giving his belly a couple of pats. “See you friday!”


Without anything else to discuss, Tom again stepped out of the showcase floor. He'd gotten Digby to accept his invitation, now he just had to prepare for the weekend. He'd waddled on back to his office, knowing that he still had a few more things to do before he'd be ready.


Likewise...Digby still had to let his sister know about his plans. She didn't like being left in the dark...And it was lunch time anyway. After the Tanuki's frame could no longer be seen from the Shih-tzu's viewpoint, he himself started leaving the showcase floor, locking the gate. “And now...to town hall...!”


Setting his set of keys in his pocket, the canine started striding down the shopping district, whistling a happy little tune as he trekked past the railroad tracks that divided the town and shopping areas.


Dusting off the tables in the town hall, Isabelle was working hard as the assistant to the Mayor. She'd been put mainly in charge of the day to day stuff so things could get busy, and thought that it was going to get even more so when she heard the ringing of town hall's bell, indicating she had someone visiting.


“Welcome to Akatsuki Town Hall! I'll be with you in just a moment!” The bright yellow furred Shih-Tzu blew a small clump of dust out of one of the table's harder to reach crevices before turning around in a 180 spin, ever the cheerful girl.


“Now...how can I...Oh!” A light bulb formed above her head and dropping the duster she'd been clutching in one paw. Suddenly a small cloud of debris filled the portion of the office she'd been standing in, followed by a few short coughs.


After waving away the dust, Isabelle looked red in the cheeks and started rubbing the back of her head. “I did not mean to do that...Sorry...”



This wasn't anything new to Digby. He was used to his twin sister being somewhat of a clutz growing up, so to see her flustered like the old days helped perk him up even more. “Don't worry sis. You're doing a great job as the Mayor's assistant! I actually came here to see if you would be alright at home by yourself this weekend.”


“This weekend?” She'd soon gotten over the brief moment of embarrassment to ponder his request...Digby didn't usually have plans for days off. If anything...she never saw him EVER take a day off...except for maybe when there was maintenance being done on the Showcase floor. “Is there...something you're doing this weekend?”


“Actually, yes.” Digby giggled, rubbing the back of his own head as he pondered how to tell his sister of his plans. “It's like this...Tom set aside a little getaway for the weekend. He thinks I might be working too hard and wants to treat me to a weekend camping.”


His sisters eyes lit up, suddenly overcome with some joy to his news about finally getting a day off. “Oh that's great! So you finally have some time off and you're spending it out camping huh? I say go for it!”


“Are...you sure? You'll be okay by yourself for the weekend?” Digby asked, his head to the side for a moment.


“More than sure!” She started stepping over the counter towards the public seating area of the building. “You work harder than I do. And there's no doubt you've shown a lot of good villagers some great homes. If Tom's willing to give you a break, I say go for it! I'll keep the house nice and tidy.”


His sister's positive attitude towards his upcoming vacation lifted his spirits. He thought he might say another word, but she'd probably push even further for him to take the trip. With nothing else to say, he decided to give his sister a big hug, before walking back towards the door. “I will see you tonight!”


Come friday morning, Tom had already been set to go and waiting by the train station. His broad belly was nearly overshadowed by the supplies he carried with him on his back. It was a large yellow back pack with his outdoor survival gear and tent stored safely inside. Checking over the station's watch, he knew it would be only a few minutes before their ride finally hit their station.


Digby wasn't too far behind...He stepped into the station, having sprinted straight from his house with his own backpack, albiet not quite as impressively large as his business partners...but still hefty. “I'm...here. I kind of overslept...”


The pink blush around his cheeks indicated his embarrassment, and hopefully he hadn't made them miss their ride.


A hearty laugh from Tom was all it took to reassure him otherwise. Then again...Tom was hard to figure out...he did not frown...and his personality always was one that bled of pleasantry. The Tanuki was about to answer the Shih-Tzu, when he heard the train's horn. Turning his head back, he'd heard the train before he could even see it, the slowing of the engine as it docked into the station to load new passengers and offload some that were coming in.


None came out, but that was usually the case. When the doors opened, Tom grabbed Digby by the shoulders, cheerfully guiding him into their train without a second thought. “Don't worry at all. Nope not at all. We made the train on time, and you got plenty of rest. You'll need it when we get there!”


There wasn't much that Digby could do to stop his progress, he stepped into the Train, along with his business partner. Once they were safely aboard, he heard the gentle hiss of the doors locking back into place, and just like that, they were off.


Their ride on the train wasn't too long. Where this train took them, was a private patch of forest that Tom had bought out a year or two ago, but hadn't developed anything within it. It was a quite spot of land that might become another village once he set out to start work on it. For now though, all that was there was nature itself.


When they finally hit their stop, Tom was doing as he'd done back in Akatsuki's station, helping guide Digby out of the train before it could take off again to one of the more active and lively towns.  “Yes yes...we're here. Now let's go find a place to set up camp!”


Again this was something Tom was eager to have done. The sooner they could lay out their camp site, the sooner his plan could come into action.


“So...Mr.Nook.”


“Call me Tom! I told you that before.” The Tanuki snickered, taking the lead out into the undeveloped forest. Without too many landmarks, it would be easy enough for either of them to get lost, hence his yellow backpack, which would be easy for Digby to spot if he stayed up front.


“Uhh right Tom...I was wondering, did Mr.Hamlet talk with you after lunch break to settle his agreement on the house...?”


Hamlet...Hamlet...Tom was trying to put a face to that name...Where'd he hear it before...Ham...Hamlet...Hamster...? Oh!  Suddenly a lightbulb appeared above Tom's head as he finally came to realize who Digby was talking about. “Oh the yellow hamster that was wearing the purple shirt with a star on it! Oh yes! We talked. We discussed payment, and his plot of land. He should be moving in tomorrow morning.”


Their talk went on for some time as they searched for the ideal camping spot. There were many spots that they could choose from. While this patch of land was still wildly under the control of mother nature, there were plenty of camping spots. It was merely about finding a spot that they were comfortable with.



Settling with a campsite close to the river, Tom started sliding his large backpack off and unloading the gear that they'd be using for the weekend, including their tent. “Alright...since we found our campsite, let's get the tent set up...then we'll put everything else out.”


Setting the tent wouldn't be difficult, it would just take some time. There were many steel poles that needed to slide into place within the durable yellow fabric, and stakes that needed to be pinned down so that their shelter wouldn't be blown away in the middle of the night!


They split the duties evenly amongst themselves. While Tom was getting the stakes into the ground, Digby was wiggling into the flat tent, his bushy tail wagging cutely even as he did. Sliding each pole into it's post, getting the tent into an upright, sturdy position when everything was said and done.


Wiggling out of the tent, the Shih-Tzu was glad to be back in the sun. Or he should have been. Above him, the sun was blocked off by Tom's round belly blocking his view, and a Peach of all things in the Tanuki's paw.  “Good work! Together we finished that with plenty of time to spare for fishing. Have a snack first.”


It WAS hot out...and the exertion made him a little hungry, so Digby accepted the Peach which was nearly as big as his head and started chomping down on it without much hesitation. He could use the strength, especially if they were going to do more than just sitting out by a camp fire.


The big Tanuki himself giggled. Digby may not have shown it lately, but Tom knew that the canine had a bigger appetite than he usually let on to people. Fact that he was going to town on such a large Peach was all the proof that he needed. Not wanting to be rude however, the Tanuki would dig once again into his backpack, taking some tools he figured might come in handy.


Digby was finishing up the last bits of his treat, and wiped the juice from his lips when he noticed Tom taking out a couple of Shovels, Nets, and even some Fishing Rods.


“Wow you've planned for a lot of activities haven't you Tom?”


“Oh yes yes I have. I thought, since it would be boring to just eat the fruits from the trees right? We're camping out by the lake, so let's have some fun while we're trying to catch tonight's supper?” Tom took little time in handing Digby both of their fishing rods. “Just...hold on to these and follow me!”


Digging back into the back, it was a wonder what the Tanuki had in there besides these supplies stored away. “Now come on...there's not much else in here...they gotta be...ah!”  Tom pulled his paws back out of the bag and revealed two folding chairs, which he tucked under his arms as he started leading Digby away from their campsite, whistling their own town tune.


Waddling up ahead, the Tanuki decided that the best place for them to cast their lines would be somewhere up river, and that's just what they did. After unfolding the chairs that they would be using, and setting them just by the river side. Both chairs had the same white coloration aside from the green leaf logo that was printed on both the front and back sides of the chair's back support.


“Here's a good spot. Yes yes...! Perfect for fishing. We'll catch a big haul!” Tom cheerfully remarked, suddenly taking his own pole from Digby and setting himself down on the closest chair to himself, wiggling his rump a bit so that he could get comfortable. “Go ahead and take a seat. We'll be fishing a bit so we may as well get comfy.”


Well there really wasn't much else to sit, except for maybe the soft grass, but staying elevated sounded better. Wiggling his way up onto the chair, which was at least three times as large as he was, it took him some time to get comfortable. At first, he tried reclining all the way to the back, but found that if he did, there was no way his line would even land in the water. In the end, he scooted his way a little closer to the front of his chair.


“Okay...this will work...” The canine muttered, holding onto his fishing line and giving it a few practice swings...wanting to make sure he got a good hit into the water. After his third swing, he decided to finally let the fishing line go loose and swung as best he good.


Fwooosh! Plip


The sound of the line cutting through the air was satisfing, as was the sound of the bobber hitting the surface of the water.


It wasn't so bad. Just sitting there, in the warm summer breeze by the river...It was quiet. Sure it was peaceful back in town...but it was also a bit loud whenever there was a flood of people coming into the shopping district. Out here in the undeveloped forest though...All you could hear was the gentle breeze of the wind in your ears and the cicada's of the summer singing their songs In the middle of the day on nearby trees. Occasionally, he would hear a gust that was unfamiliar to him, only to realize it was a gift box...flying overhead with a balloon carrying it across the land.


“Now that's something you don't see in the shopping district...”


“Oh ho ho! These are common in the village though!” Tom answered as cheerful as ever. He was reclining back into his chair. If one looked, his body seemed to fit almost perfectly into his seat, filling out every inch as if it had been built specifically for him.


It was something to look at. That wide frame, and the way Tom's belly wobbled with every chuckle that came out of the Tanuki's body. Digby had nearly forgotten about his fishing line until he heard a loud


BLOOOP


Turning back to his line, he realized his bobber had sank into the river. Quickly, he grabbed ahold of his fishing pole and started pulling on it, scooting back in his seat for some leverage as the fish caught on his line swam in circles three or four times before being yanked right out of the water.


Fweeeeew


There was a small whistling sound as the fish came barreling towards him thanks to his line, nearly knocking him onto his back as it landed square on his chest. After some wiggling on HIS part, as well as that of the fish, he realized the fish in particular that he'd caught was a Black Bass. It wiggled and flopped in his lap a bit, that's when he realized.


“Oh...! Do we have something to put it in?”


The realization that he'd forgotten something, prompted Tom to climb out of his chair and clap his paws together. “Oh yes yes! Let me go get it. I can't believe I nearly forgot it.”


Watching Tom waddle off, it was just as big a sight to Digby, as he watched his big bellied companion heading back down towards their camp ground. Even if he was looking at Tom's back, it was just as broad as the rest of him, though it did nothing to hide some of  his business partner's girth.


When Digby finally realized what he'd been doing, he blushed a shade of bright pink before picking the fish up by it's tail fin. “Heh...sorry little guy. Though...I'm sure you won't go to waste...”


It didn't take long for Tom to return with a rather large, rounded bucket. He set it down between their chairs, and climbed back into his seat, only to realize that something was missing.


He reached out for where his fishing rod was...knowing that he'd put it in the cup holder of his chair. “Where is...oh!”


Looking at the river, he saw the tip of his line starting to sink into the water. With quick feet work which was surprising for his size, he grabbed the rod and immediately started pulling back, teeth bared as he yanked another Bass right out of the water.


“That little guy wanted to take my fishing rod! Maybe it wanted to fish for it's prey!” Tom joked, setting the fish into the bucket even as Digby had set his own catch in.


“Now then...” Tom settled himself back into his chair, a sigh coming out of his mouth. “Let's catch plenty of fish tonight. I have a big appetite. And I know for a fact...so do you!”


The comment only seemed to deepen the blush on Digby's cheeks. Tom was never going to let him forget their big eating contest from years back. Heck even his sister was surprised by his eating habits, though thinking back on it...they never did have food left over after a meal...even as kids...


Thinking back on it...it wasn't even Isabelle or their parents that particularly ate very much. It was him. Trying to take his mind off of it, he continued to fish, finding the activity to be peaceful and reflective of himself...Something he wasn't much able to do when he was busy with work.


After several hours just enjoying the peace and tranquility of the river, they eventually came to a stop once the bucket had been filled to the brim with the fish they'd managed to catch here on this side of the forest. After one last line in the water, Tom decided that there was nothing left to be caught today and just left it at that.


“It's almost time to eat...Let's get all these little guys prepared so we can enjoy a nice campfire dinner yes?” Tom asked in a sing song voice, already picking up the bucket in one paw and starting to fold both of their chairs under one of his arms. “I think we now have enough for both of us.”


Judging by the bucket's size...If that wasn't enough between the two of them then this would be one wild camping trip...least that's what Digby thought, as he was made only to carry their lines back to the campsite. “I'll collect some fire wood so we can start preparing these fish. Is that okay?”


“Yes yes go ahead my friend! Just don't stray too far off, I wouldn't want you to get lost. I'd have to eat all this fish by myself!”


Another comment that left Digby absolutely blushing from the implications. It brought his mind to Nook's frame even as he set to collecting the wood they'd need for their camp.



Some time later, back at the camp, the fire was roaring between the two animals. They'd set a few of the fish by the fire at a time after taking the time and effort to clean them.


This was it. Tom's eyes flashed a bit of a mischievous grin while his face was facing away from the Shih-tzu... “alright...time to put my plan into motion...” Tom giggled quietly to himself.


When turning back around, he cracked his happy smile, taking hold of one fish in each hand, held in place by a pole and casually handed one of the freshly cooked delicacies toward his friend. “To our first day out in the forest. Let's eat up!”


Digby watched the paw approaching his own and grabbed the stick out of reflex. The fix did taste good all cooked up though. Without much thought, he decided to just start eating. After all, that's what this camping trip was about! Relaxing, and taking a load off from work.


Watching the canine, Tom couldn't help but let out a small, giggle under his own breath.  Alongside the volume of fish they'd caught, they also had fruits, which Digby took no time in stuffing his muzzle with. The occasional juice coming from the side of the Shih-Tzu's muzzle was cute.


Every couple of moments, when Digby's plate would be cleaned out, Tom would cautiously slide another fish onto the plate while refilling the fruit bowl when Digby's eyes were obscured by the food he was chowing down on.


“Mmmm...You know...this stuff's pretty tasty. Aren't you going to eat more Mr...Uhh I mean Tom?”


The innocent question left the Tanuki blushing himself. He couldn't just admit what he was doing, so he grabbed a large apple, nearly the size of his head and started chomping down on it. “I am silly! I'm taking in a healthy dose of fruits and meat. We can't let it go to waste.”


Watching Tom's muzzle being stuffed with fruits, the Shih-Tzu couldn't imagine that the Tanuki was up to anything, and simply continued with his binge. “Well alright. Let's keep going...!”


“Mmm!” The Tanuki's head bobbed up and down in acknowledgment. When his partner had resumed his meal, Tom took one careful glance at Digby's abdomen, which was swelling up with the volume of food he was taking in.


His plan was working, and Digby hadn't even realized it yet. With a bit of a mischevious smile, the minute Digby's plate had gone empty, and his hands set to the side, he would use his bushy tail to casually slide another bowl of fruits to towards him, which the dog would pick up as it made contact with the back of his paw.


The canine never suspected a thing. Continuing to eat the large quantaties of meats and fruits that were subtly handed to him while Tom himself was only finally beginning his own binge. It would look way too suspicious if he didn't start eating what was caught today, and the act of the Tanuki chowing down right in front of Digby would encourage the Shih-Tzu to eat more, subtly conditioning the canine into believing he was eating less than what he actually was.


With another glance, after practically swallowing one of the larger bass whole, Tom noted that Digby's belly had expanded by a full inch. “Good good...we're getting there.”


There was suddenly a loud burp that came out of the Tanuki's partner, who suddenly rolled onto his back, with a warm smile on his muzzle. He'd had one apple in paw and was chomping on it before falling into a sudden food coma.


“Wow...The way he packed all that away. This couldn't be his first time. No no...I suspect this has happened before.” Tom giggled, deciding to polish off what little remained of their catch and started rolling Digby into their tend, admiring the sloshing sounds coming from within his friend and knowing he'd succeeded in stuffing the dog.


He wasn't done yet though. So much more had to be done.



The next morning, a small crack in their tent allowed for a ray of light to hit Digby in his left eye, causing him some discomfort before he finally broke out of his sleep. He didn't know why he was in the tent, or even why he'd had a blue sleeping back unzipped and used as a full sized blanket for him.


“Where am I...” He groggily wondered to himself. He was a bit of a slow starter in the morning, not exactly good until he's had a cup of Brewster's coffee to get him going for the day.


A familiar scent wafting in the air, lifting some of the fog that was in the canine's head, coming from outside. With nothing else to do but start his day, Digby pulled the sleeping bag off his form and started crawling his way out, using the rolling flap to work his way out into the sunshine.


What he saw, was Tom, sitting by their campfire from the morning before, but with freshly cut logs, and a coffee pot sitting on top of a metal tray that was currently being heated by the flames. “


Not skipping a beat, Tom turned his head just as soon as the Shih-Tzu wiggled his way out of the tent, a happy smile on his muzzle, as always. “Oh good morning my friend! I hope that you've slept well!”



“I did...” Rubbing his head for a moment, Digby started taking his seat by the campfire and watched Tom pour a fresh cup of coffee, handing it towards him along with a small tray so that he didn't burn his fingers. “Did I...pass out on you?”


“Oh yes yes. You ate so much that you fell right out of your seat! I brought you into the tent so that you didn't get cold once the fire'd gone out.”


The Tanuki's explanation made sense...He recalled eating a huge portion of food last night...at Tom's insistence. Though...it did become a blur after that. Nothing good would come from wondering about it...but he did glance down once to check over himself, finding that he did now have a fair bit of chub on his belly. He was certainly wider, and his shirt certainly would not button up the same way again.


“I think...I may have over indulged...” He'd put his hands around his belly, trying to measure how much weight he'd gained from last night's dinner, with his cheeks being a bright shade of pink from the realization that he'd gained more than just a couple of pounds.


Tom on the other hand, rather enjoyed the new sight of Digby, even whistling a small tune as he noted the difference between his lean canine friend yesterday, and the extra inches around his waistline. “Oh no no I think you look great my friend. Bigger is better is my motto for a reason. I think you look wonderful.”


The compliment wasnt something Digby expected, but after a moment, he decided to accept it, happy that Tom was enjoying their trip, and truth be told, so was he.


“Alright! Today we need to gather more fruits and supplies so let's bring our trusted bucket...and start getting to work.” Tom giggled, stopping himself for just a second to correct himself. “Correction...Work is why we're taking a vacation. Let's start an adventure!”


After the coffee time, Tom and Digby set out into the forest again, with the Tanuki carrying the large bucket in hand, whistling to his own delight, So far the trip was turning out to be a success for the both of them. Neither of them were thinking too hard about work, just about exploring the great outdoors and enjoying the rest of what life had to offer.


Some time in the middle of their searching, Digby found a couple of Peach and Apple trees. Unlike the usual trees however, the quantity of fruits on them was way more over the usual proportions...each tree carried easily 9 of it's own specific fruit, three times what they were recorded to produce.


“Woah...Alright Tom!” Digby pulled up one of his sleeves, tongue sticking out of the corner of his muzzle. “Get that bucket ready! I'm gonna shake real hard...make sure you catch em!”


“Got it!” Tom's eyes flashed in their anticipation as he prepared the bucket to catch their haul. “Ready...Shake!!”


Digby didn't need to be told again. He started shaking the tree with all his strength, his belly slightly wobbling from the motion, something that for a brief second, Tom couldn't help but watch with a knowing smile. This was however cut short, as the fruits began to fall in quick succession, to which the Tanuki had to stay on his feet to make sure not a single one touched the ground.


THUNK! THUNK THUNK!


The sound of the bucket being filled up, as they passed each tree was a delight. If they could keep finding unusual tree's like that, then they'd have enough fruit to last them the rest of their trip.


“Whew...that's the third batch of trees we found with so many peaches...We should really start looking on the other half of the-!”


Digby's comments were cut short when he took one wrong step without even taking the time to look down and felt a rumbling beneath him. “It couldn't be lunch time already could it...?”


Just as he was about to take another step, he felt the ground beneath him starting to crumble, and he started dropping down! Thankfully...it seemed the few additional inches on his waistline saved him from falling in completely. Though...now he was a bit stuck.


Trying to pry himself free, his hands tried prying himself out of the hole but it was no good...he was in there tight.  “Nnngh...I can't get out!”


That wasn't good. Tom started moving in to try and offer Digby a hand. With his paws gripping Digby's own...the Tanuki started pulling as much as he could, but with little to no headway on getting his friend loose...  “It's no good...Jeez you're really stuck...I might have to call the Resetti rescue service...”


The mention of the name Resetti made Digby pale just for a moment. That mole could be scary...did they really have to call him...? Suddenly in the middle of their debacle, his stomach started rumbling. Maybe that sound earlier WAS his belly...and not simply the ground caving in. A light bulb formed above his head as an idea hit him. “Tom this is gonna sound weird...but I want you to feed me the fruits that we'd found earlier.”


“Whaa...?” Tom was already reaching for his emergency phone when the odd request was suddenly blurted out to him. “This isn't the best time to be eating my friend...You're stuck!”


“I know I'm stuck. That's why I'm suggesting it.” Digby whined, looking over himself and feeling a bit of discomfort being stuck halfway in a hole. “If I eat enough food, I might be able to break some of this pitfall and we can start pulling me out. That's the idea anyway...”


Eat to get free...? That's such a wild idea, Tom never even thought about it! But maybe...It's so crazy it might just work. Turning to grab for the bucket, the Tanuki grabbed a pair of Peaches, bringing them to his friend.


“Alright...then I'm gonna stuff you silly. Eat up!”


Digby didn't need any motivating. He was uncomfortable and wanted to get out, so he ate the fruits that Tom was now hand feeding him, the juice dripping down his chin. If the situation right now wasn't so dire, such a sight may have been cute.


After the first couple of Peaches, Tom switched it up to some apples, letting Digby chomp on them with surprising efficiency. First, it took good number of bites for the canine to work down a single fruit, but after some working, he was getting them in just a couple of bites. Tom had to be careful or he'd lose a paw!


“You're ravenous. Be careful.” Tom teased, using one paw to suddenly poke Digby's snout before shoving an apple whole into his jaws. “If you're gonna bite, I'm just gonna do it this way.”


There was a fake pout on Digby's face, waiting for another fruit to be shoved in there. This proved to be most effective, since it allowed Digby to get to working the food down his gullet so he could move on to the next batch.


Tom certainly was enjoying himself, giving a playful snicker as he shoved one of each type of fruit into Digby's mouth, waiting for the growing dog to chew what he'd had inside before shoving another handful in! This method was already working, as Tom could see a considerable gain on Digby's middle, which was becoming tightly contained in the pit...but judging from the groaning within it...that wouldn't last.


“Just a little bit more...” The canine huffed, letting out a small burp from the buildup of air from within his tummy.


“You got it...!” Tom grabbed what was left of their bucket, and started shoving it's contents into Digby's jaws, to which he thought he might have gone a bit too far here...Especially judging by how wide the canine's eyes had gotten.


Yet still, he ate...letting the food drain into his maw and swallowed them down practically whole...! When he did, there was a few subtle cracking sounds as the pit started breaking apart from the sudden expansion. Digby's gut had grown by at least half a foot, almost on the same fluffy territory as the raccoon dog himself!


Tom's eyes looked the size of dinner plates themselves, as the shocked expression just naturally came out of him. This plan actually worked. “Woah...you were right...!”


Shaking his head, Tom quickly grabbed one of Digby's hands and started pulling on him. “This is no time to be impressed...alright...Coooooome ooooout!”


There was a bit of a pull...Despite the pit having expanded with Digby's newly acquired girth, there was still some work to be done on Tom's part...But after several seconds of effort, he started making headway, feeling the canine sliding right out of his entrapment.


As he came loose, Digby's belly wobbled beneath him, finally free from the tightness of the pit, his engorged stomach could now bounce and wobble freely, not to mention slosh quite audibly now that it was working on a huge load of food.


“Whew...! I'm free...!”


“Yes...but our food is empty again...” Tom admitted, holding out his bucket and shrugging his shoulders. “Let's see if we can't find more...we'll need to still eat tonight. Or...I will...But who knows. You've shown to have quite the appetite!” The Tanuki teased, waving his tail almost dismissively as he started strutting forward.


The mention of their collection of food having gone into his belly left Digby red in the face...After all...They still had a good bit of time before they had to turn in for another day of test. Well...they could easily replinish their food supply he was sure. Waddling after the Tanuki, Digby couldn't help but giggle as his own belly wobbled in front of himself.


The rest of the day, collecting wasn't nearly as bad as it was before. They were still able to find plenty of fruits, and even catch a few fish whenever the water indicated a big catch. Despite this however, Tom couldn't help but feel a little bad now. After he'd planned this trip, he intended to fatten up Digby, but after the canine had fallen into the pit. Shame was kind of putting it mildly. He'd unintentionally shoved an entire bucket full of food down the dog's gullet in his rush without even thinking about his friends safety.


“Hey Digby. I'd just like to say-”


There was another growl as the day was coming near, and hearing the Tanuki call him out seemed to break him out of his trance. “Oh! Yeah...it is getting late huh? Why don't we find a good spot to cook all this good stuff and get back to camp?”


The mention of eating more made Tom's ears perk up. “Wait...you want to eat some more...? Aren't you still working on what I'd shoved into your throat earlier...?”


“Well...Believe it or not I actually still have room for more...!” Digby answered truthfully, his face pink. “I...hope you don't mind...”


When he watched Digby's hands resting on the rounded belly, he could hear a few audible gurgles coming from within the fluffy canines depths.


“O-oh. Well!” Tom's face went from apologetic, to enthusiastic. Certainly, Digby's own anticipation was rubbing off on him. “Well alright! If that's the case then...why don't we start a camp fire here. We can chow down early.”


Digby didn't even need to be told twice. He'd already collected several branches and was building a camp fire for them to use, as well as a few sticks that might serve to help cook their caught fishies. Even while he was preparing their food, the Tanuki was getting the fire going and sorting out the different fruits that were available to them.


When the fish was neatly cooked, both Shih-Tzu and Raccoon Dog took a seat on a near by log and began their meal.


This time, Digby didn't need the subtlety of Tom's hands guiding food to his paws to eat. Right now he was happy, and willing to grab any Fruit that was within reach and chomp down on it with gusto! It was certainly a change in the atmosphere. Never did Tom's paws actually nudge food in the canine's direction


At one point, Digby had grabbed a fish from the fire pit and actually swallowed it down whole...! The whole action stunning and even mesmerizing to Nook, who watched a smooth rounded bulge slip past his friend's gullet, only to vanish behind his chest when it hit the expanding chasm underneath.


Even after eating all that fruit in the pit, Digby was eating far and above what he'd eaten last night...It left Tom in a bit of a giggling mood which the Shih-Tzu took part in. They were happy, tails wagging and their stomachs being stuffed to the brim.


As the fire sizzled and cracked by the two friends, at one point, Digby let out a soft, cute sounding burp even when he reached for another fish. “You know Tom...I'm really happy I decided to come out here with you. I've never eaten this much before in one sitting!”


“Oh silly dog. What about the eating contest we'd had when you first moved to Akatsuki?” Tom's eyes flashed a knowing smile, one that Tanuki's were known for when behaving mischeviously. “I'd say you ate a whole lot more then. You ate me too! Yes yes...Greedy doggo.”


Face going red, Digby grabbed another fish and swallowed it in one hungry gulp, hearing his belly slosh below him and the wide tum wobble as he motioned for the next morsel. “Oh yeah...I did eat a lot back then too...But this still feels like a whole lot more!”


“You're just getting back in touch with your true appetite.” Tom snickered, shoving two apples into his maw at once and even swallowing them whole, as if to show up his friend who'd been swallowing the fish whole this entire time. “Aren't you happier this way?”


Tilting his head to one side, Digby was reaching for the last of their freshwater catch and looking at the fire. He definitely felt better...Less stiff...less tired. Maybe it wasn't the constant work...It may have just been that he was suppressing himself. “You know what... I think you might be right. I've never felt better!”


Tom giggled, nodding to his friend who swallowed the last of their fish. Taking one glance, he noted how Digby's shirt was just barely clinging onto itself...until one second later...when Digby decided to chomp down on one of their remaining apples, the buttons of his shirt started flying off one after the other, exposing a rather soft, and wobbling tum.


The Tanuki looked entranced by it...the Canine blushing, but the two gave just a glance up towards one another a moment later, and jumped into a laughing fit, Staring up at the rising smoke from their campfire as the night dwindled past them.


The next morning, Tom was the first one, bright and early, packing up their camping supplies back into his bag. If they missed their train then they'd be stuck here until midday...that wouldn't be a good thing.


Then, he heard the flap of their tent rising and spotted his friend, once again in his half sleep state, unaware of himself for a few moments. Taking this time, Tom looked down at Digby's stomach and noted how after consuming all of that food, Digby's belly was just as big as his own...probably even more.


He watched the belly wobble with his friends steps just for a second longer until he realized...oh! Coffee!


Reaching to the kettle he'd prepared just a short while ago, he poured Digby a fresh cup and watched his companion sip his sleepiness away. “Good morning! I thought for sure that you sould sleep a little bit longer! Yes yes...I decided to take to packing our things early.”


There was a small nod from the Shih-Tzu, who was only half attentive at the moment, his eyes just a pair of horizontal lines until the warmth and flavor of the coffee would rouse him to full attentiveness. “Good morning...”


It wouldn't take long for Digby to wake up completely...and when he did, he took a hand in helping Tom fold the tent back up so that it would fit back into the backpack. A weekend of wonders as far as Digby was concerned...so easily packed away and slipped into the backpack of a mysterious tanuki.


“You know...This was a lot of fun, and I think you look so good with your new frame...! We can talk to the Able Sisters about making you a new uniform too, one to fit yourlarger than life belly!” Tom giggled, his own belly bouncing even as he zipped up the backpack and set it over his back.


“Or...you could y'know...just leave that belly out for everyone to see!”


Reddening again, Digby realized that after working off all that food, his belly had not only popped off the buttons, but his shirt had more or less ripped thanks to his new expanded belly. He'd definitely need new clothes...


Resting a paw on his bare, furred belly, Digby could hear a low growling coming from within it, but also a soft, warmth that just over all made him feel happy.


“Ehehehe....I guess I did over do it...” He rubbed the back of his head, cheeks pink. Though deep down...he had a feeling this was Tom's idea the whole time. He didn't care though, this had been fun.


Back in the town, Isabelle was finishing up the last of her duties as assistant mayor to go out on her own break. If what Digby'd told her was right before he left, then their train will come into the station at 10AM, which was only ten minutes from now.


“I have to go right now...!” She realized, looking at her clock and suddenly sprinting out of the door. She casually slipped a “On break” Sign over the front door before walking out to Akatsuki's train station.


“I can make iiiiiiiit!” Isabelle reassured herself, slowly turning her walk into a half hearted sprint. It'd rained in Akatsuki the other day so the ground was slippery, and some villagers were even carrying umbrellas out just in case it started again.


DING DING DING DING


The sound of the Train tracks indicating the arrival of her brother had her slip and sliding across the town, but in her rush she barely made it, somehow avoiding slipping in the process. Though...just as she was about to step into the station, she could already see two figures coming out.


“Aww just a second late...” She sounded disappointed, only for her to perk her ears at the approaching shadows. They were both so big...Maybe they missed their train and these were tourists... “Did Digby miss his train..?”


“Nope nope! Rest assured Isabelle, your brother's come home safe and sound!” Tom's voice called out from within the tunnel, as he was the first to step out, hefting his backpack over his shoulder, a cheerful smile ever present on his muzzle.


“Wait...if you're one shadow...who's...”


Her question was answered when Digby stepped out of the tunnel, revealing his widened cream colored furred belly. It was expansive...but it also looked so soft...!


“It's me sis! The trip was a blast! You should have seen all the fish we'd caught. And the fruits on the land...”


She was only half listening, as the new look of her brother had her attention for the most part. “You...” Her eyes shifted to Tom's for a moment before returning to her brother. “I bet it was Tom's idea to get you so big. You're like a ball.”


That was a bit much, but Digby understood the joke, to which he shrugged his shoulders. “Well in a way it was. But I went along with it.”


Isabelle's cheeks puffed out for a moment but then returned to her normal cheerful state. After all, Digby was still Digby. Just bigger and softer. “Alright. But I'm gonna use you as a bed tonight.”


“Got it!” Digby didn't object, if anything he was hoping his sister would be supporting of his new weight. Carefully stepping onto the slickened dirt, Digby gave hi sister a pat on the back and began waddling towards their home, leaving Tom to return to his work.


Some days later, after having received a new tailored outfit from the able sisters, Digby was back to work, with a wider belly and a bright red suit, granted, he opted not to button it and let at least some of his gut hang out for more comfort, after all...showing homes was a lot of work, and he didn't want a button flying off and poking someones eye out.


He didn't have to wait more than two hours, for Tom to drop by to see how his work partner was doing. For Digby's break, the two of them sat out in the shopping district, with tom's suggestion, they'd added in an additional park bench where the shopping animals could look out at the oceanside.


“You look like you're getting comfortable with your new body size. How is life treating you now?”


The answer came to some surprise by Digby, who looked out at the beach, hearing the seagulls flying about...He could swear at one point he could see Gulliver washing ashore...That bird brain always managed to get himself shipwrecked.


“Oh...heh heh...It's actually going fine. I'm used to my new belly and...would you believe it if I told you Isabelle likes it too?”


“Ho ho! Do tell do tell!” Tom persisted, nodding his head a few times in anticipation for the juicy details.


“Well, the night I'd come home, Isabelle was adamant that she get to try resting on my belly. She likes how soft it's gotten...she's even started calling it her belly bed now.” Digby's cheeks flushed pink again as he revealed some of their personal time within the comforts of their own home. “She likes to play with it a bit too, and told me I shouldn't hold back on eating anymore so...I think I'll do that.”



“Sounds good!” Tom laughed, his belly wobbling some, even as he got himself out of his seat.  He was happy that Digby now had quite a liking to the big bellied lifestyle. Just as he was about to turn back to his business...He gave the Canine one last glance. “Would you like to have lunch with me after work? My treat!”


Hearing the sound of food, Digby couldn't possibly turn it down...Especially after their camping trip. He felt a friendship with the Tanuki, who took the time to well...Fatten him up...show him a side that made him very happy. With a bright smile, Digby replied. “Of course! I'll see you after work!”


Tom nodded, waving to Digby, and in turn the dog did the same before the Raccoon dog finally waddled his way out of sight, back to work for the both of them, and a tasty meal waiting at the end of the day.


(The end~)