Thanks for the comments!
I can't take credit for the superrat, that's straight out of the episode -- but I agree that following up on it could make a funny story.
Come to think of it, rats managed to make their way into quite a few L&C episodes (Seasons Greetings, The Phoenix, and I've Got A Crush On You come to mind.) Hmmm... what's that about?
I'm looking for someone to do kind of a grammar/spelling/punctuation/continuity read on the whole story (I'd send them the updated version of the story I have.) Anyone want to volunteer? PM me if interested.
Thanks again!!