Alright, im back and cured of my sinus infection! Thank you guys for the get well wishes, and thank you even more for being so patient! Big chapter here. The fundraiser! Plus a little heart-to-heart moment with surprise guests to Judy!

Ask the Cast!

TheMurderousDuck asks: What is the language that the shopkeeper was speaking?

Shopkeeper: Die premiere taal in Zoocia.

Arrowsight: Uhh... The primary language in Zoocia...is what he said. Referred to more commonly, as Zoocian. Each region has its own primary language. Western region is Zootopian. Eastern is Zoocian. And the Northern Region is Mamussian. But its actually Afrikaans lol. Praise be to google!

Guest asks: For Judy's Parents, What made you guys hate foxes in the first place?

Stu: Oh wow, look at that Bon! A question for us this time!

Bonnie: Isn't that interesting. But its not that we...HATE foxes...

Stu: No, no we don't hate them. We're just a bit scared of predators.

Bonnie: We don't trust them.

Stu: Right! We don't trust them. I mean, Nick's a nice fella and all but he's STILL a fox. Not to mention-

Arrowsight comes in, pushing Bonnie and Stu aside.

Arrowsight: I got this guys. As Stu said, they don't HATE foxes persay. They don't trust them to...well... not eat them. Living out in the sticks and the fields with ONLY rabbits around as company can make one think differently than those living in the city side-by-side with predators 24 hours a day.

Gonna do this scene in a few different increments. First Judy, then a segment with Jacques, then off to the fundraiser with another small Jacques section. Read and Review! On with the show!


Judy had returned home from a day on patrol in the ZPD. Today, Bogo had paired up Judy with Fangmeyer. Having only a few glancing conversations with the tiger, but it wasn't very often that Judy got to work with the Assistant Chief of the ZPD. Fangmeyer had just recently acquired the title after the previous Assistant Chief died from Leon's attack on Sahara Square.

The patrol today was a bit more of a step up from the usual 'drive around the city and keep an eye out for speeders' kind of patrol. Judy and Fangmeyer went to the local grade school to talk to each class about safety, and the laws in Zootopia. Also making some down and out kids that struggled with their grades feel good about themselves. Judy being a shining example that 'anyone can be anything.'

Judy opened the door to her apartment, not looking forward to another night alone.

"Hey Jude!"

Judy jumped back startled, seeing her father standing in the living room with her mother, sitting on the couch. "Dad!? Mom! What are you guy's doing here?" exclaimed Judy. Placing her hand on her chest and taking a few deep breaths to slow her beating heart.

Bonnie smiled from the couch before waving. Sitting ever so politely as she always did. Straight backed, and paws folded in her lap. Her legs bent perfectly at 90 degrees and feet flat on the floor. "We came to surprise you honey! Figured we could make you and Nick dinner!"

Judy walked into her fathers arms, hugging him warmly. Smelling the usual scent of hay, and soil in his fur that was impossible for him to get out of his fur. Instead of wearing his traditional overalls, he wore a red and black flannel shirt with blue jeans. However, he still wore his green hat with the stitching of a carrot on the front of it.

"Sure! But uhh, Nick's not here." said Judy, looking over her father's shoulder to speak to her mother.

Bonnie blinked a few times in surprise, her posture straightening a bit. "Oh... Well then it can be just us." Bonnie said warmly, obviously happy to see her daughter.

Stu let go of Judy and stepped back a bit, giving a bit of a goofy grin to his daughter. "Well, I'd rather dine with Jude than that fox anyway." sneered Stu. A bit of a coy grin on his face.

Judy sighed and glared at her father, causing him to rethink is words and regret calling Nick 'that fox' like it was a bad thing. "Dad. His name's Nick."

Stu dropped his ears and nodded, offering an apologetic smile to Judy "I know hun... I'm sorry."

She rolled her eyes at her father, offering a comforting grin. She was used to this kind of typical country-style bigotry against foxes. But talking about Nick like that was something she wouldn't take sitting down. "Let me go get changed." said Judy as she walked past Stu towards her room.

Judy closed the bedroom door behind her and began to change into fresh clothes. Eager to get out of her tight police uniform and flexible rubber vest. She changed into some jeans, and a white t-shirt before heading towards the door. She stopped as she heard Bonnie and Stu muttering lowly, obviously not wanting to be heard. Judy pressed her ear to the door, still not able to hear anything.

Letting out a little grunt of irritation, she slid down to her belly in front of the door and gently pushed one of her long ears under the crack of the door. She used this trick a lot to listen in on her brothers and sisters in their rooms.

"Stu, don't talk about Nick like that..." scolded Bonnie.

"I have my reasons for not liking that fox, and you know what they are, Bon. He did almost kill her, y'know." muttered Stu, clearly a little stressed, but doing a decent job of keeping his voice down.

"I don't like it either. But it's not our choice, Stu. Judy's an adult now, and I'm sure she's thought this through." reassured Bonnie. Sounding as if to encourage Stu to at least accept it and try to like Nick.

"It's hard to when I see these pictures of them... kissing on the wall..." added Stu. Gesturing to the multiple pictures on the wall that Judy and Nick kept of moments together.

Judy stood up and slowly, but loudly opened the door. Jiggling the handle to make the door rattle as the door opened to get Bonnie's and Stu's attention. They both quieted down as Judy walked back into the living room.

Acting as if she heard nothing, she smiled at her mother. "So what didja have in mind to cook mom?" she asked.

Bonnie quickly stood up and walked over to the fridge eagerly, opening the door and pulling out a collection of vegetables freshly grown on the farm. "Oh I found this amazing recipe online! I brought everything we'll need to make it."

Over the course of the next hour, Judy and Bonnie cooked together while Stu watched. He would occasionally strike up a small conversation with Judy. It felt like old times, standing by her mothers side in the kitchen while helping with dinner for the whole family. This was different though, only having to feed three rabbits instead of two hundred and seventy-five of them.

After a few short hours, the food was ready. Having served some well seasoned veggies, as well as some sweet zucchini/carrot bread. Just as Bonnie said, it was delectable. The bread was perfectly warm, and soft. Practically crumbling in her mouth as she ate it.

As they ate, they were mostly silent. An awkward silence falling over the group. Judy didn't want to bring up what they were talking about while Judy was changing. Rule number one of listening in, wait for them to tell you what they said first.

Bonnie spoke up. "So, how IS Nick?" she asked curiously, a friendly smile on her face to show no ill intention.

"The last few weeks has been crazy for him. We had the whole Equin case to deal with, and he was nearly killed in a shooting. And not only that, his dad showed up out of nowhere! Nick hasn't seen him since he was five." explained Judy, happy to recount the events of the past few weeks to her parents. A hint of excitement in her voice.

Stu took a particular interest in this part of the conversation, looking up at Judy attentively. "His dad huh? I bet he's a card. Why was he gone for so long?" asked Stu suggestively. As if assuming that Nick's father was uncaring, and a bad father.

Judy shrugged at her father. "Even Nick doesn't know. He says he moved to Zootopia and his father didn't come with. His name's Elias. Turns out hes a bigshot CEO of multiple companies through the regions. His big one being Wilde Funds."

"Wilde Funds? I think I heard of that company. I think he's got something going on in Zootopia pretty soon. Like some kind of party." added Bonnie.

Judy looked over at Bonnie. "I don't know about a party, but he's doing something else...something I can't really talk about yet till he makes a public statement"

Bonnie and Stu looked at each other confused for a moment, but decided not to ask further. "Did this Elias seem like a good egg?" asked Stu apprehensively. Being careful with his words.

Judy paused for a long time as she thought of a way to describe Elias in the brief times she met him. "He seems... interesting. And calculated. Like he's thought it all out already."

Stu took in a breath to speak, before holding it and exhaling slowly. As if he thought of something to say, but thought better of it before he said it. Judy knew what it was about.

An awkward silence fell over the room again, the only sounds being the clinking of the metal silverware on the porcelain plates.

Finally, Judy had enough. She set down her fork and knife and cleared her throat. "Say it dad. I want you to be completely honest."

Stu looked rather surprised from Judy's outburst, his eyes widening and blinking a few times. After a moment, his expression hardened. "Alright Jude. What do you see in that fox?"

Bonnie let out an irritated sigh and looked at Judy, offering an apologetic smile. But Judy also saw her own flash of curiosity in her eyes.

"Guys, I love Nick. Okay? You're only seeing a fox and that's it. I mean, you guys work with Gideon Grey and he seems to be okay with you." said Judy.

Stu paused for a moment and tapped his fingers along the table. His dull claws gently clicking on the wood top. "Gid's a good guy... and he also didn't kill two people. Didn't inadvertently danger the city. And didn't nearly kill you."

Judy narrowed her eyes a bit, very irritated that her parents haven't understood the entire situation yet. "One, Nick didn't mean to kill two people. He's had to live with that his whole life past that. And how was he supposed to know the whole incident with Leon would happen? It could happen to anyone! Like if Mark Equin was part of a bigger chain, they could lash out at the city! And he was drugged when he bit me!" said Judy, getting louder with each sentence.

Stu raised his fist and slammed it down on the table hard in rage, causing Judy to stop her rant. His foot tapping loudly, and quickly on the floor. "I've heard all of that Jude! It doesn't change the fact that he STILL hurt you! They said that the Growler Serum could be resisted. Well why didn't he? Why wasn't he able to stop himself before putting you on death's doorstep?! He's done things for his own personal gain, Jude. Things that an animal normally wouldn't do. And decisions like that have consequences."

Judy stood up, her paws flat on the table. Her ears drooping and glaring at her father. "He will never do those things again, dad!"

Bonnie spoke up next. "How do you know that honey? Foxes are deceitful liars. And Nick lived most of his life that way from what we hear."

Judy turned to her mother and sighed. "Uugh I can't believe I gotta say this in front of my parents... We lost our virginity to each other."

There was half a second pause before Stu leaned to the side, falling out of his seat before quickly standing up, brushing his shirt off. Bonnie holding a paw up to her mouth. "Oh, heavens!"

"Y...you two...did it?"

Judy nodded and sat back down, trying to calm herself down. Ignoring the shocked expression on Bonnie's face. "Yeah, we did. And it wasn't like one of those sudden things. It was perfect. He trusts me so much that we gave ourselves to each other. He WONT hurt me again dad. I'd bet my foot on it!"

Stu shook his head and waved his hand as Judy spoke as if not wanting to hear. "Aiigh. No, no, no this isn't something I should be hearing from my daughter."

"You started it." said Judy as she looked between her parents. Seeing the look of shock, and disappointment. Almost as if they didn't quite recognize who they were looking it. "Guys... Nick is a part of my life now. Is it gonna work out in the long run... I don't know. But I'm happy with him. And he really does want to be a part of not just my life, but our family too! He wants to be friends with you, dad. And see you as like family. If you don't believe me, ask him yourself! You have his phone number."

Stu paused for a long time before sitting in his chair, reflecting back at what was said, and the brief times he did spend with Nick. Bonnie let out a long sigh and reached over, resting her paw on top of Judy's. "Try to understand honey... we're just worried. And we want you to be sure that this is what you want." she said concerned.

Stu reached up and rested his own paw on top of Judy's other paw. "I'm sorry Jude. I'm speaking out if line... I'm just a worried old dad."

Judy smiled and held both of their paws. Giving a reassuring smile to them both. "Give him a chance to prove himself, okay? Now let's enjoy the rest of our night!"

After another somewhat awkward hour as the emotions settled. Judy enjoyed the rest of her day with her parents. Listening to her dad talk about progress on the farm, and business deals he's beginning to set up with local stores to get in some extra profit. Bonnie talking of her other siblings that have been growing so quickly. Having a few laughs and fondly remembering old times. But also talking of the future, and what that could bring for the Hopps family. Or possibly, for the future Mrs. Judy Wilde if the time ever came.


Zoocia – 8:21 am

Prince Hasef Tau climbed the staircase of the hotel in which Force of Nature was staying in, having a look of irritation on his face as he climbed the stairs. His two bodyguards following him closely. "Why would anyone want to go onto the roof of such a cut-rate hotel? There isn't even a pool!" complained Hasef as he finally reached the top of the stairs, having to take them due to no elevator going up to the stairs.

Hasef had entered the hotel earlier to speak with Jacques to make sure that he and his group were ready for the evening. Only to find a small handful of them in the room saying that Jacques was on the roof. Hence why Hasef was here now.

Hasef opened the door, stepping out onto the roof. The loose, smooth stones crunching under his feet as he walked out onto the roof. He looked around for Jacques, ready to start scolding him for making him climb such a treacherous flight of stairs. But once he laid eyes upon him, he silenced himself in curiosity, and awe of what he saw.

Jacques was standing towards the edge of the roof, his arms outstretched from his sides. Several birds had landed on his arms, and a bright orange bird with a tuft of feathers on top of its head nestled and resting on the top of Jacques's head.

The rest of Force of Nature was watching him, most of them turning to look at Hasef as he came up. Hasef walked up slowly and quietly, not trying to disturb the birds as he made his way towards Braxton. Whom could be described as Jacques's second in command of this group.

Hasef leaned over towards Braxton's ear and whispered lightly. "What's he doing?"

Braxton turned his head towards Hasef, but his eyes never leaving Jacques. "Communing with nature."

Hasef turned back to Jacques, confused as to Braxton's meaning. Almost instantly, Hasef heard Jacques speak. "Good morning, Prince Hasef." said Jacques as he turned to the lion prince. The birds never leaving his arms or his head. The eyes of the birds resting on Hasef, making him a little nervous.

"Good morning, Jacques. May I ask... what you're doing?" asked Hasef curiously, looking over the birds one by one.

Jacques grinned lightly and brought one of the birds resting on his wrist closer to his face. "Communing with Mother Nature. It's...difficult to explain, but the best I can describe it is that I am exposing my essense to Mother Nature, and to those around me. I can sense things... even items of emotional value. Like that crest on your chest."

Hasef paused and placed his hand to his chest where the crest sat. The crest that of a lion head shining in gold. The crest was given to him at a young age as a symbol of his royal heritage. Proof of his princely bloodline. He always kept the crest close, if not on him at all times. "How did you know that was there?" asked Hasef.

Jacques smiled gently and brought his gaze up to Hasef. "I just told you. I can sense it there. When I share my essence with Mother Nature, as I am now, I can see the world very differently. I can sense your confusion, your skepticism, even your fear of this moment. You aren't sure what to think of this moment."

Hasef listened in awe as Jacques described the emotions he had been feeling in that moment as they happened. Jacques smirking from the dumbfounded look.

"The birds know I wont harm them, and all I seek is their company. Hold out your arm, prince. And sit still." ordered Jacques.

Hasef paused before outstretching his arm, keeping himself very still. Jacques looked up to the bird on his head, speaking softly to it. "Rest on his arm. He will not harm you."

The bird atop Jacques's head stood up and flapped its wings, slowly flying over to Hasef and resting on his outstretched arm. The bird chirping lowly, as if greeting Hasef.

"Do you know what kind of bird that is, prince?" Asked Jacques.

Hasef looked over the bird slowly, seeing the bright orange feathers along its body fading into yellow when it reached the thicker parts of the bird's body such as the head, the neck, and the chest.

"A Torricanu. These birds are extremely rare..." said Hasef.

Jacques nodded and smiled. "He sensed my want for the birds, and came to visit me. Much like the rest of these. Come back, my friend." said Jacques softly. The bird flapping its wings and flying back to stand on top of Jacques's head again. Hasef having a dumbfounded look.

"I call this Binding of Nature. My soul, my essence, my being itself is connected to Mother Nature. And I feel truly enlightened. It strengthens my bond with her, and with Force of Nature. To put it plainly, I can sense the intent of everything around me. My own emotional value can be picked up by others as well. For example, if I began to show that I wanted harm to these birds."

Jacques's eyes flashed red for a moment, and all of the birds scattered.

"Or to you, Prince Hasef."

Hasef couldn't quite explain it, but the atmosphere in the air had changed. Before, he felt welcome and intrigued by Jacques. Now, he felt fear. As if Jacques would attack at any moment. Hasef's bodyguards even felt it, standing in front of Hasef between him and Jacques.

"Relax." said Jacques. He took in a deep breath and let it out. The air settled, and the malice in the air vanished. The cool, fall breeze rustling a fallen feather to float away in the wind. "You're in no danger, Prince."

Hasef nodded lightly and straightened his posture. His guards stepping aside to let Hasef walk forward to Jacques. "I trust you're ready for tonight's event?" asked Hasef.

Jacques stepped towards Hasef, standing just a few feet in front of him. A confident smirk on his face. "As ready as we can be. We'll be moving into position soon enough."

"So as I understand it, you'll be attending the fundraiser?" Asked Hasef.

Jacques nodded, his gaze never leaving Hasef. "Yes. My associate got me the invite for Mister Wilde's fundraiser as a representative to Preypred City. Given the nature of this fundraiser, it would make sense for me to be there. However, he was only able to procure one invite for me, and me alone. So my forces here will be...unexpected guests." explained Jacques.

Hasef stared at Jacques for a long while, trying to ascertain exactly what his plan was. Jacques noticed the interested stare and grinned lightly. "Rest assured, Prince Hasef, everything will go according to plan." reassured Jacques.

"There is just one thing." said Hasef, seeming to want to reassure himself further. "If you plan on making a scene, you'll have the entire Royal Guard to deal with. There are some in the fundraiser room, and the rest will be in the building nearby on standby. And if you are in the room by yourself without your forces, you'll be facing them all by yourself."

Jacques grinned wider. "A fair point. But as I said, Prince Hasef." Jacques said as he placed his paw on the wooden ornament over the hilt of his sword, disguising it as a cane. "Everything will work out."


Zoocian Royal Palace – 5:43 pm

Nick groaned lightly and sat down on a nearby foldable chair, having just finished helping set up the last table for the fundraiser event. Nick and Elias, as well as some staff hired to help with the event, had been at the palace since nine in the morning getting everything ready. Elias insisted that Nick not help, as he was a guest, but Nick insisted that he should so he didn't die of boredom.

The room for the fundraiser, was a fairly small ballroom within the palace. Shiny pale granite tiles in the center of the floor, serving as a dance floor. Past the tile floor, was an elegant red carpet spanning the rest of the room. Towards the back of the room, the floor was elevated slightly. On this elevated floor, sat an elegant gold,trimmed chair with red cushioning. This is the seat in which King Musala would sit for the fundraiser. The remaining chairs around the elegant tables for dining were of high stature, but clearly the king's chair stood out the most and drew the most attention. A symbol of dominance, and royalty. A throne fit for a king.

A short distance from the left and right sides of the dance floor, were long tables that were to be used to serve dinner for the evening. Heavy, brown wood tables, thick in the center. The chairs placed evenly along the table, spaced evenly as well. An elegant, red cloth draped over the top of the table lined with symbols of the Zoocian Kingdom.

A long balcony ran along the floor above the ballroom, encircling the room, save for the back wall with the large glass window. Giving those above who are on the balcony a full view of the room below. The walls etched in elegant red and gold wallpaper, the room having a somewhat red glow to it as the sun shined in from the window.

Over the past few hours, Nick could smell the pleasant aroma of the food coming from the kitchen nearby. Smells of herbs, spices, meats, breads, vegetables, almost anything Nick could identify by smell. As well as some new smells he had never sensed before. His stomach growling wantingly, as he had not eaten anything all day.

Nick stood up and walked near the window along the back wall behind the throne, taking his phone out and calling his favorite bunny. After a moment, she picked up. "Hmmluhh?"

Nick chuckled lightly from the odd sound. "Judy? You alright?"

"Nmmk! Mmu cmmld mn." Nick heard the sound of something spitting into a sink, followed by a quick gargle and another spit. "Nick! You called me at a bad time! I was just brushing my teeth getting ready for bed." giggled Judy.

An amused laugh came from Nick. Just imagining Judy trying to talk with a mouthful of toothpaste made him break out into a fit of giggles. "Just figured I'd call you before the fundraiser started. How ya doing?" asked Nick cheerfully.

A light sigh came from Judy. "Oh it was fine. Just got done having dinner with my parents! They decided to surprise visit me and cook dinner!"

Nick raised his eyebrows in surprised. While visits from Bonnie and Stu were common, Nick was surprised at the timing for this one. "How'd that go? And let them know I say 'hi.'"

Judy paused for a bit. "Fine... for the most part." said Judy alludingly.

"Uh-oh... what happened?" asked Nick, noticing the tone in Judy's voice.

Judy paused again before speaking, as if hesitant to bring it up. "Just the usual...paranoid bunny dad stuff."

Nick took in Judy's meaning and looked around the room. Noticing that some of the workers in the room, as well as Elias, kept glancing over at him. "I know what you mean... But I can't talk about that now where i'm at... Sorry Jude." said Nick sadly.

Judy sighed. "I know. Political and religious beliefs and all. Well we'll just have to talk about it all day when you come back and listen to me complain!" said Judy lightheartedly. Pulling on the old stereotype of men listening to their girlfriends complaints all day.

Nick rolled his eyes and smiled. "Only if I get to tell you all about my boring days with my dad." replied Nick.

"You're on!"

They talked for a little while longer. Having just a short conversation, as Nick knew the fundraiser event would begin soon. Wanting to avoid any kind of conflict with anyone curious as to whom he was talking to.

"It's nice talking to you, Judy but I gotta go. The event's about to start." said Nick sadly. Almost not wanting to hang up the phone. He missed talking to her all day, and being by her side. These short talks on the phone didn't feel like enough for him.

"Alright, Slick. Have a good time at the fundraiser! Love you!" said Judy with her usual cheer in her voice. Enough to brighten up Nick's day.

"Love you too. Bye." said Nick as he hung up the phone, putting it in his pocket and walking back over to Elias.

The first to arrive, was the news crew hired by Elias to record the ongoings of the fundraiser. Once they arrived, they began to set up their equipment in the back corner of the room, on a small elevated platform. Elias wanted them away from the crowd, as not to make it seem awkward to the guests.

The hours began to tick by, and the sun began to set. One by one, guests began to arrive to the fundraiser. Elias explained who each person was as they showed up. Most of them were political representatives of larger cities in the area. Cities that supplied Zoocia with functions it needed, as well as their own. While these city leaders didn't have much of a say on who their King was, it was still in the King's best interest to retain a positive relationship with them. As well as wealthy business owners for the Eastern Region. To put it plainly, Anyone who was Anybody in Zoocia was here.

Within an hour or so, the room was filled with over a dozen people of wealthy standing. The noise of their talking filling the room. An elegant music playing from unseen speakers to keep the room in a royal setting. Nick had noticed that several large, burly animals stood along the edges of the room, as well as up on the balcony. Two particularly large elephants stood on either side of the throne in the back. Nick guessed this must be the Royal Guard. Which meant that King Musala would soon make his appearance.

Nick took to walking around the edges of the crowd, rather than participating in conversation among the ground. Save for occasional chit-chat with his father when he passed him. Elias playing the 'good host', and talking to every person he could to make sure everything was satisfactory.

Nick kept to himself for the most part. When he tried to listen in on other conversations, he couldn't understand them due to the animals speaking Zoocian. However it was a much more refined dialect than what the shopkeeper at the bazaar used. Sort of like the elegant, rich person accent verses the country folk accent. He would occasionally glance over at the television news crew in the back corner of the room. They were more silent than Nick was, hardly making a sound as the large studio camera recorded the event.

Suddenly, a hand clasped itself on Nick's shoulder, causing him to jump a bit and turn to see the same hyena he had met in the bazaar, Jacques Akachi.

Jacques was wearing an elegant black suit with a red undershirt with a black tie. However, instead of the traditional collar, was a collar of tan fur that nearly covered his shoulders. Leaning on a pollished wooden cane painted red. The handle being a large, 9 inch long sphere. On the wooden sphere, was etched what appeared to be leaves of a tree ranging from three colors. Red, Blue, and Green.

Nick let out a small sigh of relief as he recognized the somewhat familiar face. "Oh, uhh, Akachi right?"

Jacques nodded once and smiled. "You can call me Jacques. You're a guest to our nation after all, Mister Wilde."

"Just call me Nick then." responded Nick, offering his paw to shake.

Jacques was quick to shake Nick's paw, gripping it firmly as he shook it once before letting go. Jacques stood up straight and began to walk around the room in the same fashion that Nick was. Nick following alongside him. "Saw you circling the group. I figured you could use someone other than your father to talk to." said Jacques, his eyes darting around the crowd.

"Well, I appreciate the thought, Jacques. I can spare a few words since you made the time." responded Nick, sporting his usual sly smirk.

Jacques looked out towards the large glass window behind the throne to the city outside. Noticing that the sun had set completely, and the stars began to shine. "What do you think of our nation?" inquired Jacques. Seeming to want his opinion on the country he is visiting.

Nick smiled lightly and looked up at Jacques. "Elegant, and rich with culture. A perfect collection of the old, and the new functioning as one in a thriving society. It's like being here is a fun history. The buildings are beautiful, the food is great. Only downside? Its a little dry."

Jacques chuckled lightly at Nick's description. "Well, no argument there. If it gets bad enough, water is limited nation wide. Luckily, we've had a very wet season this year."

"Wow. Probably sparks a lot of problems when the dry season comes huh?" asked Nick.

Jacques shrugged lightly. "It can, depending on where you are. We can request trade from other cities, or even pull from the ocean if we have to. But those are just alternative methods."

Jacques walked to a nearby chair, sitting on it and relaxing. Resting his palms on the ball of the cane. Nick, seeming to humor the hyena. "What city is it you govern?" asked Nick.

"Preypred City." responded Jacques, having a sense of pride in his voice.

Nick ran that name over in his head a couple of times, smiling a bit but trying not to offend Jacques. "Seems like a peculiar name for a community."

A light chuckle came from Jacques, his gaze drifting downward to the ornament on his cane. "Been told that many times. The name of the city gives an idea of how I govern it. Predator and Prey are equal, but separate."

Jacques looked as if he was ready to continue, but instead shook his head, smiling lightly. "Perhaps another time, Nick. I fear we don't have time to discuss this further." said Jacques as he stood up, as if anticipating something.

Nick stood up as well, hearing the large doors that gave entrance to the ballroom. The crowd fell silent, and opened up a path leading to the throne. The news crew turned the camera towards the door, eagerly awaiting some camera time on the King himself.

Nick, barely able to see over the crowd, noticed a male lion walking in. Only able to see his head. His male was thick, and wavy. A light brown in color. His shorter fur was a light tan yellow color. His eyes seeming to shine orange. His cheeks were round, and low. Usually this meant the person was heavy in weight.

Nick noticed the crowd bowing their heads, and crossing their arm over their chest as King Musala walked past. Nick bowing his head in the same fashion as the King drew closer. Judging from his heavy footsteps and deep breathing, Musala was heavy in weight. However there was another set of lighter footsteps behind him. Once Musala had sat on his throne, and spoke out loudly in words that Nick could not understand, the crowd went on as usual.

Nick lifted his head and took his first look at Musala. As expected, he was a heavy set man. His arm resting on his round belly. He wore an red kingly robe with gold trim sparkling in the room's light. Underneath, he wore a similarly colored, but slightly darker red dress shirt and pants. Patterns of the Royal Family of Zoocia etched into the clothing. Upon his head, sat a gold crown encrusted with rubies and sapphires. On each of his fat fingers, sat large gold and silver rings. Each engraved and encrusted with gems.

Nick was willing to bet just one of those rings could pay for a new car for the ZPD.

Standing next to the throne, was a younger male lion. Wearing an all black suit with gold lines running vertically down the shirt and pants. Along with a black undershirt and tie. His fur was the same color as Musala's, as well as his eyes. Nick guessed that this was Hasef, first heir to the throne.

Nick looked away, not wanting to pry as he continued his circular path around the group. Elias caught up to Nick and patted him on the shoulder. "Take a seat. Food will be coming out shortly."

Nick nodded and walked towards the chair that Elias told him to sit in. This seat was designated to put him next to Elias, so Nick wasn't surrounded in people he didn't know. Nick folding his tail neatly under his leg as he sat.

As Nick adjusted himself in the seat, he heard Elias address the crowd. Once he finished, they all began to take seats at the table, Elias quickly taking a seat next to Nick. Even the news crew were given their own seats. Elias's way of thanking them for their hard work. Nick noticed that Jacques sat opposite side of Nick.

King Musala stood up and began to walk towards the table. Hasef snapped his fingers loudly, and the two elephant guards standing at the sides of the kings throne picked up the throne, and carried it to the end of the table. Moving quickly so Musala would not have to wait for his seat. Musala sat in his seat and was scooted closer to the table. His belly just inches from the edge of the wood table.

Hasef quickly walked out of the room, coming back moments later and taking his own seat. Several cooks followed him in. Each carrying a silver dinner platter, and setting it along the centers of the table. Another string of cooks quickly, and skillfully setting up plates and silverware for the guests.

The familiar scent of the food filled Nick's nose, making his mouth water in hunger. Nick began to reach in to lift the silver dome off of the platter, only to have his arm pulled back by Elias. "The waiters will take care of everything. Just relax, and have a taste of the royal life." said Elias.

Nick nodded and leaned back in his seat, trying to sit as straight, and nobley as he could. Knowing that he stood out like a sore thumb among the crowd of nobles, governors, and business men. Hopefully, he could at least blend in. The last thing he wanted was to embarrass his father at such an important event.

The waiters reached over, and pulled the lids off of the food. After the steam dissipated, a large variety of elegantly designed foods showed along the table. A wide range of meats, vegetables, breads, and fruits filled the platters. Ribs, chicken, boar, artfully decorated cooked vegetables. If the food tasted half as good as it looked, Nick could die happy tonight.

As Elias said, the waiters began to fill the plates of everyone in the room. Of course, starting with Musala. The waiter asked each person what it was they wanted to have, and filled their plates accordingly. Nick asked for some vegetables, fruits, and bread. Not wanting to eat any of the meat for his own reasons.

Nick began to eat, starting with the vegetables as they looked so good, he had to try it first. Thin slices of cucumber, tomatoes, onions, and peppers clashed in a circle with each portion. Holding together by what seemed to be some kind of unseen force. The taste a pleasant mixture of moist, firm, spiced, and salted. A perfect blend of the taste of vegetables. Nick turned his attention to the fruits. Starting with the slices of an apple made to mimic rose petals. Having been given a wine sweetener to dye the apple innards red and refine the taste further. The taste was intoxicating, almost addicting even. The breads were cooked to perfection, as well as certain slices having cheeses baked into the bread. Not in a fashion as it was mixed into the dough, but inserted during the baking process. Allowing the cheese to melt into the inside of the bread, and still allowing it to be noticeable, and stringy with each bite.

A deep, booming voice caught Nick's attention. "So, you are the son of Elias Wilde?"

Nick looked up to the source of the voice to see King Musala gazing and smiling at him. Nick gulped down his food and quickly washed it down with some wine. Wanting his throat to be cleared before addressing royalty. "Yes, Your Majesty. I'm Nick Wilde."

Musala laughed lightly, the fat folds on his neck shaking with each laugh. "What do you think of my fair country? Delightful, no?" asked Musala. His accent was thick with Zoocian, but Nick wasn't surprised that he knew how to speak Zootopian.

Nick nodded once, with a bright and enlightening smile. "Yes, Your Majesty. I find Zoocia's culture to be truly fascinating. And you have done an excellent job ruling this fine, beautiful nation." said Nick enthusiastically.

"I am glad you appreciate our history. So, you are from Zootopia, yes?" asked Musala.

Nick nodded again. "Yes, Your Majesty."

Musala reached up and scratched one of his chins, a light smile on his lips. "What is life like there? I hear there was trouble with terrorism some months ago." inquired Musala.

Nick's mood dropped lightly, knowing that Musala was inquiring about Leon Snowly. "It's a comfortable life. We all get along, and our society functions well. As for our terrorist problem recently. Yes, we have, Your Majesty. His name was Leon Snowly. To put it shortly, he tried to use a gas weapon to turn all the predators in the city into savages, and attack prey to... 'teach them a lesson.' as it were."

Musala narrowed his gaze a bit, his eyes looking beyond Nick as if in deep thought. "Such a cruel motive. This...Snowly must have been driven to madness to chose such a goal."

Nick lowered his gaze further and dropped his ears lightly. Memories of the night he made that fateful decision to kill Tracy and Ricky Snowly, Leon Snowly's wife and child. A decision that inevitably endangered the whole city. As well as Judy. "It's a very sad tale, Your Majesty."

From across the table, Nick heard Jacques speak up. "One that I hear you had your own part to play in, Nick Wilde. Is that true?"

Nick looked up at Jacques rather surprised. While it would make sense for Musala to be aware of what happened with Leon Snowly, it was less likely that a governor of a neighboring city in the Eastern Region would know. Nick paused and looked at Musala, seeing an interested gaze, as if wanting to hear more.

Nick took in a breath to begin the story, however it was Elias that spoke first. "Perhaps that isn't a tale for a time like this. This is a happy occasion, lets not dull the mood with sad tales of the past." said Elias, his glare turning to Jacques. Jacques nodded once and leaned back in his seat, returning to his meal.

Musala, still having an interested gaze, pointed one of his fat fingers to Nick's plate. "Is there something about the meat that is bothering you, Nick Wilde?" asked Musala. Seeming to have noticed that Nick had not eaten any of the meat. Of which the other predators of the table had begun to dine on. On multiple occasions, Nick watched Elias devour a few of the ribs to the bone, giving him a sickening feel in his stomach till he remembered the divine taste of the food he had eaten.

Nick smiled lightly and bowed his head politely to Musala. "With all do respect, Your Majesty, I don't eat meat."

Musala leaned back in his seat, his gave hardening a bit, but still sporting a gentle smile. "Yes, I am aware of the Western Region's ideology on eating meat. I will not force you, I just ask if you feel adventurous, don't feel shy to try it. You are among friends here, and no one will judge you."

Nick smiled at Musala and bowed his head again. "Thank you, Your Majesty. I will consider it."

Nick had no plans to eat any of the meat. More just putting on a face of courtesy for King Musala for his hospitality. Nick found his statement about not being judged to be incorrect. But he kept silent, as not to offend Musala. While the other predators wouldn't judge him, he would still be judged by himself.

The dinner went on more silently, Nick having small conversations with Elias and Musala for most of the meal. Nick made sure to keep etiquette, as well as his sly nature in check. Nick didn't want Elias to have to tell Judy that Nick didn't make it back because he was beheaded for insulting the king.

Once the meal was over, the throne was moved back to its original position on the elevated floor. The rest of the attendees to the fundraiser talking among the tile floors. Hasef taking his place, standing at his father's side.

The purpose of this fundraiser, was praise to the King Musala. This is why the most rich and powerful of the Eastern Region were brought to this event. They would offer donations to Elias's fundraising account by check, or credit card payments to a large account, which would be transferred to Musala. Of course, once Elias got his share.

Nick continued his circling of the crowd once the meal was over. On one of his passes, he noticed Elias talking to the news crew. Elias wagged his finger for the manager of the crew to come down to his level. Nick turned his ear towards Elias and listened closely as Elias spoke into the newsman's ear.

"Hou die kamera roullende. Maak nie saak wat nie." Elias muttered lowly as he slipped what appeared to be a large handful of cash into the newsman's paw. The newsman simply pocketed the cash and gave a single nod before getting back up on the platform.

The event was coming to a close, but the party guests were not allowed to leave till after they were dismissed by the King. Nick noticed that Elias was standing by the throne, holding a wine glass and a fork. Elias looked to King Musala and waited. Once Musala nodded, Elias tapped the glass with the fork a few times, letting a high pitched tone ring through the room, silencing the crowd.

Elias began to speak in Zoocian, causing Nick to almost lose his attention instantly. However, he felt the familiar paw of Jacques place itself on his shoulder. "I'll translate."

"Thank you, ladies and gentleman, for coming this fine fall evening. I would first like to thank our glorious king, Musala, for allowing me to host this event." said Elias, bowing to Musala as he spoke his name. The crowd chapping lightly as well.

"Tonight, we have raised a great amount of money thanks to your generous donations. Over 12 million in all. I thank each and every one of you for coming out this fine evening." said Elias, however he continued to speak. But Jacques stood up and walked away, standing at the back center of the room, looking up to the balcony overhead. Nick followed his gaze, seeing that some of the guards had left from the balcony, but let out a sigh of relief as he saw they returned. However, they looked different. Instead of looking straight ahead, they were looking down at Jacques.

Jacques stood back towards the door and shrugged off his suit jacket. Showing a black vest with a white stripe down the front and back center. Exposing his slender, yet toned arms. The collar on the jacket was normal, while the collar on the vest was stitched with the tanned fur. Showing that Jacques had been wearing the vest under the jacket the whole evening. He quickly removed his tie and red suit-vest as well.

One by one, Jacques nodded at each of the new guards on the balcony. Jacques closed his eyes and cleared his throat loudly, causing Elias to silence himself, and the crowd turn towards him. "Ladies and Gentleman, I have my own few statements to make reguarding our... 'wonderful' king Musala."

The crowd muttered among themselves, curious as to what Jacques had to say. Elias stepped down quickly and walked over to Nick. Jacques spoke in Zoocian, but Elias translated for him. "Our king has sat on his throne for nigh on Fourty years now. While his rule has been... mostly peaceful, there is still hardship amidst our nation that is blatantly ignored."

The crowd muttered nervously, moving away from Jacques. Public outcry against King Musala was almost never met kindly. Either by kings supporters, or by his followers. Those who would speak against the king either find themselves rotting in a cold stone prison, or dead. Musala's face contorted to anger, his fat fingers curling up. His fingers turning a bit purple from the rings around his fingers.

Jacques noticed the king's angry glare and continued boldly. Seemingly uninhibited by the malice of the most powerful man in the country. "Those within our upper class have thrived and enjoyed the pleasures of life, that much is certain. But at the cost of the well being of the lower class. Disease riddles the streets of the lower class districts of our cities. Small communities outside the city suffer famine and drought, begging and crying for help from our 'Great King', only to be met in silence. And if they dared speak out, they simply vanished. No doubt by the King's orders."

His voice rang through the room. The two large elephant guards standing by the throne walking forward, just waiting for the King's orders to strike down the protester. The six guards that stood silent vigil watch along the walls seeming to ready themselves. The partygoers still moving away from Jacques, almost all of them off the tile floor. Nick watched Jacques make his proclamation.

This guy must have a death wish. Nick thought to himself, almost certain he'd see what a dead hyena would look like tonight.

Jacques raised his arms beckoningly, as if ready to accept any wrath and punishment. Daring anyone to challenge his words. "This night will mark a new page in history. The night in which the eighth king of the Tau family shall fall."

Musala stood up from his throne, the wood throne scraping along the throne as Musala practically threw himself out of it. "Guards! Kill this defiant wretch! Subdue him and throw him from the palace walls!"

The two large elephants began to walk forward, popping their knuckles. The guards standing at the walls rushed forward, ready to jump on Jacques. Jacques kept his confident grin and raised his arm skyward, snapping his fingers loudly. The guards up on the balcony all pulled out a pistol and open fired on the elephants. The loud bangs filling the room and echoing down the halls as the bullets left the chambers, striking the guards all over their bodies.

The elephants fell to the ground dead, as well as the remaining guards who rushed to Jacques. Screams of horror coming from one of the female guests. Musala watched in horror as he saw his guards on the balcony open fire on his two strongest guards. "What's the meaning of this?! Traitors!" he cried out to them, snarling and baring his ivory fangs.

The guards simply ignored the angry king, keeping their eyes on Jacques. Jacques looked up and nodded. "Be ready, my Forces of Nature. The Royal Guard will be on us soon." called out Jacques to the guards above.

The guards nodded and left the room, the King barking orders for them to stay and kill Jacques. Jacques let out a light, high pitched laugh at the king's efforts. "They listen to only me, Musala. You, with all your power, are as weak as a newborn child compared to our resolve. The resolve of Force of Nature!"

Musala listened to Jacques's words, his eyes narrowing and growling loudly. "The church?!"

Jacques grinned and turned his back to the king, facing towards the door. The sounds of gunfire could be heard from behind it. He grabbed hold of the wooden ornament on top of his cane and pulled it firmly, pulling off the orb and tossing it aside. Beneath it, was the hilt of a sword. White and blue stitched fabric showing on the hilt. The bright red scabbard shining in the light of the overhead lamps. "We shall see if this is Mother Nature's will. If you are destined to rule, I will fall tonight. If not, your rule ends tonight." said Jacques as he rested his left paw on the scabbard close to the crossguard of the hilt, while the other gripped the hilt firmly. His posture straight, and firm.

As the seconds ticked by, more loud footsteps and shouting could be heard from behind the door. Shouts of pain, or of rage. The doors burst open, showing the guards from the balcony rush in and slam the door behind them. Eleven in all came in, raising up their pistols towards as they closed the door and backed away. Ready to open fire on anyone who came through the door.

From behind, they could hear one of the guards call out. "Swords out! One careless shot and you could shoot his royal majesty!"

Jacques practically grinned from ear to ear as he heard this. "Allow me, boys. Just shoot anyone who pulls a gun." informed Jacques. The 11 forces nodded and kept their guns raised at the ready.

A rather sudden, strange sensation fell over the room. A sensation of someone standing behind you striking down. A sensation of malice and thrill that instilled fear into those that felt it. It felt as if the an overpowering presence was warning them to stay away from the danger. Even Nick felt it, his fur standing up on end and sending slight chills up his spine. Upon closer inspection, Nick could see Jacques's eyes begin to glow a brighter red. Nick recalled that his eyes were naturally red as they were, but now they seemed to shine. Nick focused hard on Jacques, the sensation of malice pressing down on him, his instincts demanding him to run as he laid his eyes on Jacques. Nick realized that Jacques was the source of this feeling. As if he was projecting raw emotion to everyone in the room.

Jacques grinned lightly as the music changed. It had turned to a slightly more intense orchestra. Low, but fast sounds of the stringed instruments as well as the heavy, fast beating of the drums sounding behind it. Jacques closed his eyes as he listened to the music, seeming to enjoy it. To much of the rooms surprise, he began to sing words to match it.

"All kingdoms fall, Nature hasn't died. Deep in my bones, fights by my side." sung Jacques. A loud metallic click sounding through the room as the sword was unfastened from the sheathe and pulled out. The sound of metal scraping on wood following before the hum of the blade filled the room. The light of the room reflecting off of the steel metal blade.

The wooden doors flung open, Several of the guards rushing in with scimitar blades raised and ready. The first they would see upon opening the door, is Jacques with his sword unsheathed. His posture, and his emotion bearing down on the guards. It was difficult to see just how many guards there were, but well over a dozen had rushed into the room. As they saw Jacques, they roared out and charged him, blades raised.

Jacques tightened his position and bent his knees, his eyes flashing ever more red. As the guard in the lead grew close, Jacques slashed at the guard across the chest with alarming, and blinding speed. The guard quickly fell to his injury.

Jacques continued to sing as he slashed. His voice lower, and more systematic. Nick could identify it more as rap lyrics.

(Real quick sidenote on how this is gonna work. Jacques is essentially singing these lyrics as the next actions take place. But typing it like that is difficult. Essentially, it will be 'lyrics, action. Lyrics, action.' Meaning you will see the lyrics first, and the action will be told next. But both are happening simutaniously.)

"Bury me alive, you can surely try,"

Jacques kept his momentum going, spinning his body low and angling his blade high to slice into the abdomen's of two more guards. Blood pouring down their fronts as they fell to the ground in agony. More of the guards rushing in, being halted as their cohorts had to step over the writing bodies of the fallen.

"Bury me with fury, that forbidden mood of anguished cries."

Jacques straightened his stance to catch two of he guard's blades on the polished scabbard of his sword, quickly running his blade through the stomachs of the two guards. As they fell, Jacques pulled the scabbard back and jabbed the end of it forward, catching the next guard squarely on the nose. Causing him to flinch and recoil from his broken nose. More guards coming in and going around the slower moving ones in the front.

"Thank you for your cause. But tonight's the night that Nature calls."

Jacques glanced around the guards surrounding him for a moment before seeing the guard with the bloodied nose rush forward, blade raised. Jacques caught the blade on his scabbard and swiftly ran the blade through the guard's stomach. Quickly pulling it out and pushing the guard away to the ground.

"Swinging for our causes, barbaric actions in unknown eyes."

The guards continued to circle around Jacques, their sharp, wide blades raised to strike down the hyena. The guards who turned their attention to the 11 forces were quickly shot down. The occasional gunshot ringing out.

"Change in life is something we have to face."

The guards seemed to be hesitant to attack Jacques, who was standing at the ready in the center of the guards. The emotion had changed slightly in the room. Along with the malice, the sensation of thrill filled the room. An eagerness of wanting to be challenged further. Jacques was ready to fight off anyone who dared get in the way of his ideals, and that emotion filled the room for all to experience.

"Change ideals, change kings, change sides, change beliefs, right before I change your mind."

A guard finally mustered the courage to run into the circle around Jacques and swing at him. He was met with a quick sidestep followed by a slash to the back, causing the guard to drop after taking a few steps forward from the momentum of his charge. One by one, guards continue to follow suit. Hoping to catch Jacques off guard as he fell each guard. But they were met with similar sidesteps, or parries and were quickly cut down by Jacques's blade. Each falling with each pause that Jacques spoke.

"All will know that change is happening, been in works since we were children in our own."

Jacques's words began to grow more loud, and powerful as he continued. Growing in intensity with each passing verse. Two guards rush forward, aiming their scimitar to run Jacques through. Jacques flipped both the scabbard and blade in his paws to hold them backwards. Jacques thrust his arms forward as the blades drew close, the blades put into the path of the guard opposite of them and thrust into their guts. Impaled by their own co-worker's blade.

"Now the world will know about me, I'm Voice! Force of Nature is the future, and I'm gonna show you what's our call!"

The guards continued to move in, hacking and slashing their blades at Jacques. His words continued to grow in intensity, starting from a low chant, to a slight angry growl. His movements becoming more fluid like as he dodged, ducked, and parried the blades threatening to cut him to pieces. As if he could sense when the guards rushed to him, ready to strike him down. Blood began to cover the floor, and onto the bodies of the fallen guards. Jacques's blade flickering the light of steel, and red and blood began to cover the blade.

"Sky's the limit, We gotta bring our world under the Nature's Law! Mark my words, I will make my mark, even if I'm buried their Liars Laws!"

One by two, the guards continued to fall. Their bodies laying on the floor and covering the floor in blood. The guests of the party watched in horror as the Hyena did his work, frightened by his savage actions. Nick took the moment when he couldn't see Jacques among the crowd to look around the room in case a quick escape was needed. However, the only way out was past the 11 forces all armed with pistols. Nick looked to King Musala, watching his stunned, and horrified expression as Jacques laid waste to his Royal Guard. Hasef stood next to him, his expression seemed more intrigued than his father's. As if perfectly okay with the fact that his father was on the verge of being overthrown. No more guards came into the room at this point, which made Nick guess that all available guards were currently in the room. Nick took another glance to Elias, who was still translating for Jacques as he sung while slicing down the guard. His face showed thrill, and excitement. As if watching the final fight of his favorite action movie.

"Even when these liars alienate, my final goal is still at heart!"

Jacques swiftly struck one of the guards in his gut by jabbing the end of the scabbard into him. Causing the guard to double over and bend down. Jacques quickly jumped up onto the back of the mammal and leapt over the guards, landing between them, and his 11 forces. The forces still having their pistols raised. The guards hesitated to rush forward from both fear of the brutal, and skillful hyena. As well as the forces with their pistols raised. If they fired, there was a strong chance of a stray bullet hitting the King; as the guards stood between Jacques and the throne where the king was cowering.

"So, look in my eyes! Tell me I'm wrong! Tell me that I, don't compromise!"

Jacques snapped the scabbard back to his belt and reached his now free paw back to his forces. One of them quickly tossing a pistol to him. Jacques caught the pistol and raised it in front of his head, his eyes looking past the pistol to the guards. The guards having realized there's no way to fight back without firearms, they begin to reach into their holsters.

"Tell me you'll kill me! Tell me that I, don't care for life and will bring only death's eye!"

Jacques dashed forward, quickly shooting one of the guards in front of him. Jacques was now on the offensive, slashing his blade forward and wide, cutting two guards across the chest. As they began to fall, Jacques hopped up onto the chest of one as he was falling, firing off three more shots quickly into the skulls of three more guards. Jacques moving so quickly, that the guards had barely gotten their pistols out of the holsters before Jacques cut down the first two. At this point, their pistols raised up to him. Jacques's voice intensified further. Going from a powerful growl, to more of a savage and wild tone

"I'm wishing good luck to my enemies, all of my energy goes to the Mother of Nature. I could drown in the hate of my enemies but I will show the world that this will get better with time! Now!"

The emotion in the air changed to complete savagery. His intent to kill filled the air with a chill that struck to the core. The guards faltered at the sensation, most of them beginning to cower and step backwards. Fearing for their own lives.

As the body of the guard Jacques stepped up on fell, he slashed quickly, and without stopping. Each swing striking down by either a cut of the throat, or impaled through the chest. When a guard would raise his pistol to fire, Jacques would return the gesture by shooting them in the first available spot he could. Be it the stomach, the leg, the arm, or other places. If the shot wasn't lethal, they were met with their end by the sharp edge of Jacques's blade. The crowd of guards began to thin very quickly from Jacques's onslaught, as his words in the last verse were nonstop, and ran on like a single sentence.

The music silenced just as the guards began to fall from double digits, to single digits. The last five guards cowering and running back out of Jacques's reach. All five with their pistols raised and out of Jacques's reach. Jacques crouched his body low and outstretched his arms upon uttering the final word of his verse, the 11 forces open firing on the five guards. All of them falling to the ground dead.

Jacques slowly stood up, specks of blood shining along the fur on is face, and on his vest. His blade dripping blood of the Royal Guard. The music, and the crowd had fallen silent as Jacques stood among the bodies strewn along the tile floor, beginning to stain the carpet as the blood poured onto it. A few of the guards groaned from their crippling agony, mainly suffering deep cuts to their backs, or their chests While their cuts weren't initially fatal, they could bleed out from how deep the cuts were.

Nick looked along the bodies of the guard. Utterly stunned that a single hyena could overpower over 20 armed members of the kings Royal Guard. He wasn't the only one in the room, noticing the other stunned faces of the guests, and the horrified look of reality on Musala's face.

Jacques walked forward towards Musala, who stumbled back a bit and fell back onto his throne. "Wh...what are you?"

Jacques stood at the foot of the throne, and grinned wide. He pulled a small, white handkerchief from his pocket and wiped his blade clean. Once the blade was spotless, he tossed the fabric aside. Bringing his gaze back to the cowering king.

"I am Jacques Akachi. I am the leader, and The Voice of Force of Nature. The revolutionist group founded on the Nature's Law. We were struck down by your rule and decision to demolish the church. It was then that we knew our ideals were in danger of being laid to waste by your laws of greed. The laws of the perverse. The ideals of those who chose to go against the natural order." proclaimed Jacques. His voice sounding down the halls as Force of Nature made its debut.

Musala listened as Jacques spoke. His eyes narrowed as the church was mentioned. "Church of Nature? You're that extremist's son! You look much like him!" bellowed Musala, pointing one of his fingers up to Jacques. "You foolish child! What makes you think your idea of how the world works is better than mine!?"

Jacques smirked down at the king, his fangs flashing in the light. "Because Nature's Law has existed since the beginning of animals. The laws of which forward life, and forward progress. You demolished that church, and smothered the name of Mother Nature. Men like you, will lead us to extinction."

Musala growled and leaned back on his seat. "Then strike me down. Take the throne for yourself and see if the world will accept you and your ideals!"

A light, high pitched chuckle came from Jacques as if amused at the gesture. "No, it's not I who's destined for the throne. And I do not seek it. I am merely here to assure he reaches the throne."

Jacques smiled at Musala's confused look, not understanding his meaning. "Then who will overthrow me?" asked Musala.

Jacques took a few steps back, his smirk never fading for a moment. "I will not strike you down. But, he will." said Jacques as grabbed the flat of the blade between his fingers, extending the hilt towards Hasef.

Musala watched in horror as Hasef stepped forward and took the blade from Jacques. His eyes darting up and down the steel blade. "Hasef?! You'd strike down your kin to take the throne?!" called out Musala, fear gripping him.

Hasef looked at his frightful father, his face stoic and cold. "Our people have suffered more than they have gained. While you sit here feeding your fat face, our cities die of starvation. While you stain your royal robe with wine, many more try to drink the sand of their dried up water reserve. I will not allow this any longer. We will break into civil war if you are allowed to keep the throne any longer."

Musala stood up angrily, puffing out his chest and growling at Hasef. "You stupid, ignorant boy! You are not ready to take the crown! Your ideologies leave the strong weaker, and the weak stronger. The strong should stay strong! And the weak should SERVE the strong!"

Hasef glared at his father as he spoke. "Our nation has had enough of your ignorance. And now..." Hasef grasped the hilt of the blade in hand and ran it through his father's chest, through his hard. The end of the blade protruding out from his back. Blood dripping from the edge of the blade. Musala grunted loudly, grasping hold of his son by the arms as the blade ran through his chest. Within a few seconds, he began to cough up blood and wheeze for breath.

"You fall."

Hasef reachced up, grasping the crown atop Musala's head and pulled the blade from Musala's chest. Musala stumbled forward a bit before falling from the elevated platform onto the ground below. His body motionless as his last breath escaped from his lungs.

Hasef turned to the stunned, and horrified crowd. Offering them a confident, and heartened smile. "My people. Please, do not be frightened by what you have had to bear witness to tonight. For too long, my father's ignorance has continuously bled the country dry at the expense of the less fortunate. I promise you this." Hasef placed the crown upon his brow, taking in a deep breath as if he felt the weight of royalty press on him.

"I will be the greatest ruler this country as ever known!" declared Hasef.

The crowd fell silent as Hasef made his declaration. From the back, a clapping could be heard. The crowd turned to see Elias clapping his paws together, smiling slightly to the crowd. "All hail King Hasef Tau! Ninth King of the Tau family line!"

Nick looked to his father and followed suit, clapping his paws together. While Nick wasn't entirely informed of Musala's rule, he surely didn't want to be seen as an enemy to the new king. One by one, the crowd began to clap, giving praise to their new king.

Jacques smiled and joined in, as did his forces after holstering their pistols. Jacques stood next to the king and knelt on one knee, pulling his scabbard up and holding the open end towards Hasef. "Mother Nature welcomes you, King Hasef. And I offer now our services to Zoocia. Sheathe my blade to accept me, or run me through to reject me."

Hasef looked down at the kneeling hyena. Hasef cleaned the blood off of the blade using his own handkerchief. Hasef brought the sharp point of the sword center to Jacques's chest. "Jacques Akachi. Your loyalties align with mine, and with that of Zoocia."

Hasef lined the sword up to the scabbard and sheathed it, letting go of the hilt and placing his paw on Jacques's head. "Zoocia recognizes you, and Force of Nature as representatives to Zoocia. From this day forward, Zoocia supports you so long as you stay in alignment with Zoocia's best interests."

Jacques stood up slowly and bowed to Hasef, his grin widening almost maliciously. "All Hail King Hasef!"

"All Hail King Hasef!"

"All Hail King Hasef!"

The crowd, and Jacques's forces chanted this repeatedly, praising their new king. Nick listened on, still clapping lightly to show approval. Nick leaned over to his father and spoke into his ear. "Bet you never expected a coup to happen on your last fundraiser huh?"

Elias smirked lightly and shook his head. "No way. But it's a hell of a way to sign off."

Not wanting to keep the already stressed guests, Hasef dismissed them all. Including Elias and Nick. As Elias and Nick began to leave, Hasef walked up to them, stopping them. "Elias Wilde?" asked Hasef.

Elias nodded up at Hasef. "Yes, Your Majesty?"

Hasef smiled warmly and extended his paw to Elias. "The money raised for the fundraiser tonight goes to you. Thank you for hosting the evening, despite this event. Good luck in your election."

Elias smiled lightly and shook Hasef's paw. "Thank you, Your Majesty."

Hasef dismissed Elias and Nick. Both of them eager to get some rest. Nick thinking that he had a hell of a story to tell Judy when he got back.


Two days later – Zootopia Central Station – 8:55 am

Judy sat at the train station, waiting for Nick arrive from the train. The previous day, Judy received a call from Nick, who spoke excitedly about the events at the fundraiser. At first, Judy found it doubtful that what Nick was saying was true. But the amount of detail that Nick used to describe it made her think otherwise soon after.

Nick told Judy that he'd be returning on this day, and should be arriving at around 9 am Zootopia time. This excited Judy, as she was eager to see her fox again. And no doubt Nick was ready to come home. The transition for Hasef to become king was rocky, but successful. Apparently, there wasn't much public outcry against the king's assassination. However the law states that once the king dies, the heir must take the throne. In this situation, Hasef had successfully preformed a coup d'etat. Having several powerful members of Zoocia's political system backing him. According to Nick, Hasef had already begun to get much needed supplies to areas in need in the Eastern Region. Jacques and his forces assisting in the efforts.

After the long phone call, Judy hesitantly called Alissa Valpord to tell her of what day and time Nick would arrive. She simply thanked her, and hung up the phone. This made Judy feel uneasy, so she called Bogo to tell him about the situation with Valpord.

While Bogo seemed worried, he reassured Judy that Valpord's reasoning behind questioning Nick, was likely related to Elias. Who was soon to announce his first speech in his running for Mayor. While Judy was still skeptical, Bogo's words comforted her. As much as Bogo didn't like to admit it, he saw Nick as family. The members of the ZPD sharing a close bond with each other, ready to fight for their city and for each other at any moment. Taking care of their own in times of need, and being a shoulder to cry on if needed. Bogo being the stern, but caring father. Which made Judy wonder what Clawhauser's role would be? The annoying big brother?

Judy looked around the station at the other animals. Most were carrying bags and talking to loved ones as they waited for the train to arrive. While others sat alone, waiting for people they know to return, like Judy. Some reading newspapers as they waited as well.

Judy heard a soft tone come over the speakers, followed by an automated, and friendly female voice. "Attention please! The Mamtrack Train from Zoocia will be arriving momentarily! Please stay clear of the tracks to avoid any injury. Thank you!"

Judy looked up from her seat a bit to the distance, hoping to see the train in the distance before it arrived. She was sitting at one of the benches next to the walkway in which to board and exit the train. Down on a bench near her, sat two other animals. One of them had his or her face in a newspaper, making it difficult to tell who it was. The other was a sandy furred Kit Fox on a laptop. Wearing jeans and a white tshirt. Also wearing glasses with green colored lenses.

Judy noticed several other mammals sitting around these two. All of which wearing black pants, and white tshirts and wearing sunglasses. All of them were burly mammals as well.

Her focus was shifted when she heard the screech of the train stopping, making her heart flutter excitedly as she saw the train pull in. Once the train stopped, the doors opened. The passengers inside quickly making their way off the train. Judy stood up on the bench, trying to look over the crowd to see if she could spot Nick.

He was nowhere to be seen yet, likely waiting to get off of the train last so he didn't have to crowd around the other passengers to get out. Sure enough, Nick stepped off of the train, Elias walking behind him.

Nick and Judy met eyes, both of them smiling. Judy jumped down from her bench and started to run to him, Nick opening up his arms as Judy began to run to him.

However, four others stood up as they saw Nick. All of which wearing the black pants, white shirt, and sunglasses. One of them quickly walked up behind Nick and grabbed his wrists, pulling them to his lower back.

"Nicholas Wilde, you're under arrest." said the tiger as he cuffed Nick's wrists behind his back.


Alright gonna end it here. MY WORD that took forever to get out. I wanted to end it on a cliffhanger ending because... I'm just mean like that haha! I'm sorry that took so long to get out, like I said I was battling a sinus infection for a while ther and just couldn't muster up the energy to get this one done. And since it was such an important chapter, I didn't wanna mess it up.

For those who want to know, the part with Jacques's singing is from an actual song. If you can't guess what part, its Radioactive (Featuring Kendrick Lamar) by Imagine Dragons. The part where Kendrick starts to do his rap is what I based the lyrics off of that from. Go ahead and look it up on youtube if you havent heard it!

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