A/N: Hey everyone, SkatingDJ here!:) I saw Zootopia twice and I have fallen into it's trance. It's a wonderful movie:3 Y'all need to see it! It's right up there with all the other Disney movies! BTW, I know, I know... but I'm not dead! I'm trying people, I've been very busy! And I know there are/will be other fanfics like this but I'm doing my own. So I hope you enjoy.
Full Summary: Even though the Night Howler case had been solved over two years ago, there are those that still think that predators are savage. Whether that predators have always been dangerous, or ever since the NH case, these believers have had enough and will now make sure they are heard about the threat of predators. Who is behind all of this? While chaos throughout all regions of the world ensues and predators are found dead or taken without a trace, Nick's dream of proposing to Judy is turning into a nightmare: How can a Fox marry a Bunny? Especially with his life on the line. Relationships will be put to the test and loved ones are jeopardized; will the duo's feelings for each other win the war in the end, or is it just a big scam?
Disclaimers: T for violence/language. No OC's (except for background characters). Pairings: Nick x Judy. I own nothing (including the cover, which I added effects to).
Enjoy!:)
Ever since the Crime of the Century (alias of the Night Howler or Missing Mammal Case), officers Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde have been very busy.
Since the ZPD is at the heart of the city in Savanna Central, it's their job to take care of everything going on everywhere. Of course, there are other police departments, but it's a confederate system which means that ZPD makes the rules and does most of the work. Being ranked Best Officers, Judy and Nick get almost every top case filed at the ZPD. In other words, they are in charge of the most difficult tasks in all of Zootopia. It certainly keeps them light on their feet, neither one of them could have guessed how many crimes or mishaps could occur in each district. From road racers to thieves, to missing and/or injured animals, Judy and Nick were on the case. Luckily, the only crime that never seemed to crop up were murders. The golden ranked assignment... a golden medal you do not want to have.
Speaking of gold, Nick has been doing a little treasure hunting himself lately.
Even though they have been very busy, Judy and Nick always find time to spend quality, personal time together. It's already been two years and time has flown by faster than Pierre Green (the fastest animal in all of Zootopia, AKA "the Fast Falcon"). However, so much has happened to the duo besides being up to their eyeballs in work. For one, they could now both afford decent homes in Savanna Central, Judy was able to move out of her dingy apartment and Nick didn't have to live on the outskirts of town anymore. On Nick's side of the story, his con-work and tax violations were history (but Judy still got some mileage on it). He was now a clean, full-time cop. Finnick though still continued on his dirty work by himself. For Judy, things could never be better, she was successfully living the life of her dreams.
And it was even better with Nick in it. So much better... and Nick felt the same way.
Their "quality, personal time" was majorly spent going out to eat together or hanging out at each others' apartments. Secret Little Dates, if you will. They never spoke of their secret relationship with anyone, the only animals who knew were Judy's parents, but Judy told them her boyfriend was another fellow bunny, or else she would have to hear them toss their carrots if they knew the truth. At first, Nick was pissed off about Judy lying to both him and her parents, but they agreed that the truth would be told eventually. The only other group of animals who knew about the relationship was the ZPD. It was pretty obvious to them and they supported their relationship, but they were all wary.
The problem was this: A Bunny, and a Fox. Let alone the fact that they were predator and prey, the two animals were of opposite species. It had never been done before. It was new, daring, different. Even if they were simply holding hands through a park, they would get many stares. Was it legal? Well, both Hopps and Wilde backed up their claim by saying that there was no rule stating that two animals of opposite species could not be together. There was no issue here.
Judy and Nick have been together for over two years and nobody complained. They have gone on 30 dates, openly kissed each other numerous times in public, and made love once (that was quite the event), but they never told anyone that they had shared physical romance. Who knows what could stir up if that got around? There was nothing stopping them from being an official couple. Nick simply couldn't live his life without Judy, he loved her to the ends of the world. She was his other half, his better half. Her beauty, bravery, determination and spunk had worked its way into his life and now he couldn't live without her. Now, he wanted to make it official.
He probably should have looked into buying an engagement ring beforehand, but to be fair, he had only made his absolute decision last week and was not going to be patient and hang around being "engaged". Besides, there was no law stating that one had to be engaged before getting married. (Nick took pleasure in finding laws like these, being an officer had it's advantages!) He could pop in Ferret's Galleria of Jewelry during lunch break right as the shop opened, then get a quick lunch at Subwheat (one of Judy's favorite delis, but Nick himself didn't fancy it too much) for him and Judy as the bunny always worked overtime. She wouldn't even know. The surprise was going to be perfect.
"Alright everyone, you are dismissed for lunch break. I expect everyone back here at twelve forty-five." Chief Bogo said as he stored his file underneath the podium and exited outside through the back door, making eye contact with everyone before his leave.
Groups of burly animals shuffled out of the small gathering room, pleased with themselves as they went out to fetch a well deserved lunch break.
"Hey, Cutey Carrots," Nick began to Judy who was still packing up files. He was the only other animal besides other bunnies who Judy accepted being called 'cute' from, "Are you gonna stay? Do you want me to grab something at Subwheat for you?"
"Yeah, I'll be here," Judy responded as she sighed before slipping the last file into her sack. Sadly, there has been less action and more paperwork nowadays, not really her department. She was so glad Nick was there for her, "That would be great if you could do that for me. See you soon!" She finished sweetly as she gave a quick kiss to Nick's cheek before hopping off of her seat and bounding out of the room and down the hallway.
Nick sighed with content before snapping into action. He had to make some mad hustling happen if he was going to cover the time it would take him to get a ring. The finest gems were located deep beneath the earth in Sahara Square, there were imports to the Downtown City of Zootopia of course, but Sahara had the real deal. Luckily for Nick, the Square was the next town over and last night he had coordinated the trolley patterns, cabby hours, and monorail schedules perfectly so he could make record time. He did this along with picking out the perfect ring for Judy, already ordering it online so it would be already packaged for him. The anticipation was making him slightly giddy, but also sick to his stomach.
Don't worry, Nick. Breathe. Everything will work out fine.
As Nick walked into the open Central City and spotted the trolley heading to the train station, he picked up speed and made chase to the trolley and was able to cling onto the railing as he hung outside onto the back. He whipped out his sunglasses and howled as the trolley weaved in and out of crowds of animals. Sure, not the finest police roll model, but he was on break. He loved feeling the wind fly through his fur as the sun beaming down brightly on the world beneath it. Usually, Nick would scoff at things like this, Judy would be the one to take pleasure in it. But today, everything was going to be wonderful. It was a lovely day to get married...
Before the trolley even came to a complete stop, Nick had already hopped off the trolley and dashed towards the monorail station, dodging other animals and avoiding crowds like a weasel. When he got to security, he couldn't help but slyly smirk at everyone waiting in line. Since he was a cop, he got a special warrant that allowed him to skip all the lines and get a free ticket on the train. He was totally living the good life as a police officer. Who knew?
Nick was on the monorail in no time. He nonchalantly leaned against a railing and took out his phone to text Judy that he was going to be a little late.
Hey Judy, Central is SUPER busy and Subwheat line is REALLY long, lunch might come late. But I'm getting your favorite! Luv u;)
What? An innocent lie means no harm done. Besides, it was a lie for the greater good! Nick then minimized the Call screen and opened up the Internet Tab and pressed on a number that he had downloaded previously.
"Sahara Taxi Services, wha' can I do ya for?" A male Aussie voice from the other line chanted in an slick yet upbeat attitude.
"Hello sir, can I have a taxi waiting for me at the Grande Central Monorail Station?" Nick responded, checking his watch.
"Yes, sir! Name?"
"Wilde, Nick Wilde."
"Aye, Mr. Wilde. I shall be waiting for ya at the station!"
"Thanks, sir."
Nick pressed 'end' and put his phone away and gazed outside the window with a content smile. Everything was working accordingly! Ahead was the orange and desert land of the Sahara as the lush and city life of Downtown disappeared behind him. Nick had to admit, it was inspiring. All of it was, everywhere you looked. Just seeing all these grand cities really did make you feel like you could be anything. With so many great animals to meet and neat places to go, life at Zootopia was a dream come true. Now Nick understood what Judy must have felt like when she first came here. Slightly overwhelmed, but it was promising and awe-striking. Nick even struggled to find the right words to describe it all.
The monorail soon came to a halt as Nick squeezed himself to the front and exited the train once the doors slid open. He checked his watch once more and was pleased to see that it was just over twelve ten. He followed the crowd downstairs to the departure docks and trailed down the lines of cabbies. In the distance, he saw a fairly large sized kangaroo with spiky, caramel coffee-shaded fur holding a sign that read, "Mr. Wilde." Nick picked up the pace and greeted himself to the driver.
"Okay, Mr. Wilde, where to?" The kangaroo said as he adjusted his rear-view mirror and smacked on-what appeared to be- his (probably regurgitated) lemon-zest flavored gum.
"Jackal's Galleria of Jewelry." Nick ordered.
"Yes, sir!" The kangaroo pulled into reverse and sped out into the dry streets of the Sahara.
Even though it was hot, dry, and rocky, it was still impressively interesting to see. The Sahara Square was one big desert oasis that contained lush life in it's severe climate. It still retained many modernized buildings and many intricate sculptures of poised red rocks. One of the city's trademark landscapes was the Palm Hotel which of casinos and bars, being that the Square was famous for it's nighttime activities. It was a ginormous and beautiful glass building in the shape of a palm tree. All buildings were made of glass or clay to bear through and survive the harsh sunlight. Many camels, jack rabbits, kangaroos, lizards, snakes, ostriches, and other variety of birds, mammals and reptiles passed down the streets. They too seemed to be enjoying the weather. Nick remembered the first time he came here. It when he brought Judy to the Mystic Springs Oasis, the naturist club when they first met... good times! (Nick still remembered how uncomfortable Judy was seeing all those naked animals.)
"So, Mr. Wilde, what are ya lookin' for at Jackal's this afternoon?" The kangaroo spoke up.
"Getting a ring for my gal." Nick said, failing to hide his pride.
The kangaroo's eyes lit up as he let out a chuckle, "That's wonderful news, Mr. Wilde! Engagement, or marriage?"
"Marriage."
"Well, best of luck to ya, sir. I can't think of a reason why she'll say no." The kangaroo tipped his hat with gratitude.
I hope so. Nick wondered, because what if Judy did say no? Nick really had not thought about a negative outcome. He would be devastated and crushed if Judy said no! What if she wasn't ready to marry? What if she wasn't interested in that sort of thing? But then, what if she said yes? What would her parents say when they found out about his true identity? Of course, there was no law stating that you had to have a parent's blessing to get married, but they would hate him and their own daughter if they disagreed! In fact, how would the whole world react if they found out about the marriage? It was unheard of! A fox and a bunny in love? Let alone to be married? It made Nick cringe to think of the consequences, but he loved Judy and nobody was going to tell him otherwise.
"Here we are, sir! Jackal's Galleria of Jewelry!"
Nick jumped slightly, being snapped out of his thoughts. "U-uh, thank you... Mr.-?"
"Aster." The kangaroo nodded, "Ye can call me Aster! Do ya want me ta wait 'ere outside for ya?"
"Yes please." Nick asked as he got out of the cab and adjusted his tie. He nodded at Aster before heading into the shop, a soft bell chiming as he stepped into the cool, empty building.
Nick huffed and inspected the small shop. The carpet was a red wine velvet and the color of the walls was a vanilla creme custard, small lights glowed inside the dim room that was lined with booths containing precious gems. The air was dry yet slightly cool from air conditioning and the only sound in the room was the sweet, calm hum of jazz music by the Beatles and the pat of Nick's feet against the carpet. The only other thing adorning the room were a few pictures hanging on the walls, the front desk, and a door that led to the back.
Nick walked up to the front desk and cleared his throat, "Hello?" He called out, his voice deeper as it echoed off the walls.
"Are you Mr. Wilde?" A female British voice said from underneath the desk.
Nick frowned and leaned over the desk to find a small, older looking yet posh jackal climbing up a stool. She was slightly bony and had gruff dirty-blonde fur and wore a black dress suit along with a pair of black pressed pants. On her right eye, she wore a single spectacle that was connected to a golden chain that was also attached to a golden watch that was tucked away in her breast pocket. She was very well groomed, her fur shiny and gelled back in the right places, she must be the manager.
"Y-yes I am! Are you Ms. Jackal?" Mr. Wilde said, once he got his bearings.
"I am, but please, call me Emmy." The lady jackal said in her elderly voice with a small twitch of her pink nose before letting out a squeaky laugh, "My name isn't actually Jackal. It's Emmy Ralds. My husband is the creator of Jackal's, and his name is Sasha Phire. But no matter! Are you here for the wedding ring ordered last night?"
"I am." Nick stated as he leaned on the booth.
Emmy hummed with marvel as she reached down underneath the desk, "It's a beauty, Mr. Wilde. You're girl sure is lucky."
"More like I'm the one that got lucky." Nick said with a smile as Emmy took out a stylish, fancy lavender felt covered box.
"So, when are you tying the knot?" Emmy asked kindly as she giggled and placed the small ring box in a bag with tender care.
"Tonight." Nick simply said.
Emmy's eyes gleamed like diamonds as wonder sparked in her mind, "Oh, excuse me, but I must ask how and where?" Her fur then slightly bristled with embarrassment, "I swear, I won't show up, I-"
Nick held up a paw and answered, "Gazing across the lake that surrounds the town, the city lights reflecting off of the surface of the water." Even thinking about the scenery made Nick's heart flutter.
"How romantic..." Emmy drawled, "I wish you the best of luck." Emmy finished as she completed packaging the ring.
"Thank you." Nick replied as he waved goodbye to Emmy and headed out the door, staring at his package with glee and holding it with utmost care.
He viewed it online last night and memorized everything about it; It was a stunning and beautiful ring. A solid 24 Carrot Gold ring, thin and delicately fragile, yet very visible and sturdy. The golden ivy pattern on the ring was entwined and laced with gorgeous shimmering diamonds and right in the center was a small, perfectly cut amethyst that was the shade of Judy's eyes. It was perfect for his Judy, the anticipation was making his chest burst. The ring cost quite the pretty penny but it was well beyond worth it.
Nick walked back into the cabby and told Aster to drive him back to the station as fast as possible.
Halfway there, Aster asked a question that Nick did not want to answer, "So, what'cha gal look like? Pretty hot foxy, right?"
Nick's eyes went slightly wide as his face fell, he hated getting caught! He gulped and took a breath, "I guess you could say that," he coolly lied, "Real pretty..."
Thankfully, the conversation ended right there since they had already arrived at the station. Nick generously paid Aster the money and got the heck out of there. He was quite a nice fella, but with luck maybe he wouldn't have to encounter him again. Once Nick got on the monorail, he checked his watch, "Twelve twenty-five." Nick pursed his lips, he was cutting it close. He unlocked his phone and dialed the number to Subwheat to order ahead, right now, every second counted. He should be at the ZPD at forty-five... shoot! He and Judy would barely get the opportunity to eat! But he promised he'd get her favorite, he'd make it work somehow.
The moment the doors opened, Nick ran out of the station and caught up to the closest trolley that was his ride. Mostly, trolley rides were for free for anyone, but you still had to pay a small discount fee. Nick wanted to savor the couple dollars to make up for the couple thousand he just spent a few minutes ago. He shadily hid behind the meaty leg of a fellow elephant; the driver didn't even see him. Nick still kept his no-good but innocent mischief intact, it was useful. It was convenient for him this time around. But Nick's mind didn't dwell in dollars for long, his mind had drifted back to the bunny whom he loved so much.
At first, he couldn't stand Judy. She was just another sweetly innocent, over-positive, sickly dreamy Misses Goody Two-Shoes. And of course, a downright dumb bunny, and seeing it coming from her was simply priceless and pathetic. But she quickly earned him his respect. She was clever, determined, and brave. Most of all, she was caring. She always tried to seek out the best in everything and she never gave up. She always meant good, but could be quite scary when she was threatening you when she had the power. Not to mention she was stunningly beautiful. Nick felt like the most special animal in the world to be her boyfriend. He could always rely on her, and he was always going to be there for her. They made the perfect pair. She was the full package. He couldn't live without his Judy.
In the midst of his thoughts, Nick almost missed his stop and almost got caught. But he managed to get off with ease as he landed right in front of Subwheat. Luckily, there was no line. He made his way to the cashier and ordered the Classic Carrot Sub and the Insect Platter to-go orders he called in for previously. They beckoned him to wait one moment (which Nick growled with dismay), as he went over to the counter to wait and text Judy that he was on his way soon.
Nick couldn't help but notice everyone in the deli gathering around the flat overhead screen TV where there was a News Alert.
The two news casters, a snow leopard and a moose appeared onscreen as the female leopard began to speak, "A dead jaguar has recently been found in his home in the Rainforest District of Zootopia. A fellow neighbor had discovered the dead body and alerted officials immediately. We take you to the scene of the crime-"
The screen switched over to a over-head shot of the Rainforest District to show the dark and fruitful forest that was swamped with police cars and ambulances. Shoot! Nick thought, I'd better get to work ASAP. They probably needed him right now. But before Nick could grab his lunch, something forced him to take a closer look at the home of the crime scene as something felt oddly, awfully familiar about that place. Nick began to slowly count the things he felt familiar about that certain location.
A long bridge, huge lone tree, foggy climate- and does that sign say Tajunga and Vine? OH NO.
"The identity of the victim has been identified as Renato Manchas. A black jaguar that was once a private chauffeur to Tundra Town's most feared crime lord, Mr. Big. It appears that he had been brutally beaten to death within the past forty-eight hours. However, reports have shown that there are no leads to the murderer. Chief Bogo of the ZPD has more-"
Nick could only stand still in utter horror as he flat out ignored Chief Bogo's speech on the television. All thoughts instantly left his mind as he could only think about one thing; Mr. Manchas!? The Manchas!? He couldn't believe his ears which were now pressed back on his head. Nick and Judy had become loyal friends (or even considered family since Judy was the godmother of Mr. Big's granddaughter) of Mr. Big and had also become friends with Mr. Manchas. A friend of his was dead. He knew this jaguar! Nick knew everybody of course, but this was different! He cared for this jaguar, and he was dead! His heart clenched with grief as he began to feel slightly lightheaded. The sheer news of it all crashed into him like an overweight elephant. He didn't know what to do! He almost didn't hear his cellphone ring-
Nick fumbled with his phone as he struggled to obtain it from his pocket, he glanced at it and finally clicked "answer" with shaky fingers, "Judy?"
"Nick!" Judy's voice rang from the other line, it was breathless and distraught, "Where have you been!? I was getting worried!"
Nick's gut wrenched with guilt, he opened his mouth to speak but Judy cut him off.
"Did you see the news?"
"Yes..." Nick replied, his voice barely a whisper.
"Who would do something like this to Mr. Manchas?" Judy cried, Nick could hear her voice slightly cracking.
"Don't worry, honey. I'm coming right over, stay where you are!" Nick shouted distantly as he grabbed his to-go lunches in a flash and bolted out the door, not even bothering to catch a trolley but hailing a taxi and making it drive to the ZPD at full speed. "Everything will be fine." Nick finished as he clicked his phone shut as he was still on the line.
This was going to be a long case, and as much as Nick hated it with all his heart... the proposal would have to wait.
So? How was it? Did y'all like it? Please leave me a review and let me know:) Peace!
-SkatingDJ