A Friendly Hustle

by Blkdragon7

A few years after the Missing Mammal & Nighthowler cases, Nick and Judy are officially mates. They have managed to keep it a secret until they discover that their friends Lizz Fangmeyer and Mike Wolford are also in a mate level relationship. To help their friends, Nick and Judy draw Lizz and Mike to a restaurant to reveal their knowledge and their own relationship.

43. Chapter 43

Here is the 43rd installment. Hope you enjoy.

Notes now live at the end of the chapter, so there than the obilgatory, on with the show.

Sadly, I do not own and thus can claim no rights to Zootopia or its characters. They belong to Disney.

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Tuesday Night Dinner at the Alphas home

(Warning. Much haughty, and unnecessary words will be used. Gird thine loins.)

Arriving at the Wolford Pack estate, just off Pack Street on the edge of the Rain Forest district, Mike put in his code to the gate and drove along the long meandering entrance drive towards the house. Pulling into his designated spot in front of the large but seemingly unassuming home, he sighed deeply. "Well, we're here. Once we walk up to that door, we all need to be fully formal. Like we've been joking around, until mom calls an end to the formal part of the night." Turning to Lizz, Mike pulled her down into a deep kiss that lasts several long moments. Releasing it. "Once we are inside. No paw holding, no non-formal shows of affection, no kissing, etc... Everyone ready?"

After Nick and Judy share their own long kiss, they all acknowledged. Exiting the vehicle, they walked up to the door as a group. Mike reached up and knocked, Nick to his left, Lizz to his right and Judy to her right. All of them standing as straight and prim as they could, having checked their suits for the guys and dresses for the ladies after they got out of the car. All clothes were Vivian originals.

Ed, Mike's brother answered the door, opening it wide. "Greetings. Micheal, it is so wonderful for you to join the family for dinner this fine evening. Who have you brought with you so that I may announce them?"

Mike suppressed the smile and spoke as formally as he could. "Thank you Edward. With me this evening is my mate and fiance, Elizabeth Ann Fangmeyer. I have with me my chose First, Nicholas Piberius WildeHopps. Elizabeth also has her is her chosen First, Judith Laverne WildeHopps, Nicholas' mate and spouse."

Ed nodded. "Greetings Elizabeth, Judith, and Nicholas. Welcome to the home of the Wolford Pack Alpha's. I will announce you. Please follow me." He steped aside to allow them to enter, and then passed by them after closing the door. They take several steps down into the proper foyer of the home, which was much larger than the outside of the building suggested.

As they followed Ed into the home, they moved down more steps. That each move forward into the house seemed to descend at least a meter from the previous level allowed the home to appear smaller than it was by descending down into the ground. As the group exited the foyer into a hallway that was a meter below the foyer, and then another meter down as they entered what appeared to be a large formal dining room with at least a dozen wolves, Elli, Lizz's mother, and a Bobcat none of them knew.

Ed raised his voice to be heard over the din of conversation. "Good evening. May I present Michael Arron Wolford, Alpha Designate and Zootopia Police Department Sargent of Precinct One. His Mate and fiance, Elizabeth Ann Fangmeyer, Zootopia Police Department Sargent of Precinct One. Michael's chosen First, Nicholas Piberius WildeHopps, Zootopia Police Department Sargent of Precinct One, and Elizabeth's chosen First and Nicholas' mate and spouse, Judith Laverne WildeHopps, Zootopia Police Department Sargent of Precinct One." Turning to the group. "Please be welcome in this home and join the conversation."

Mike nodded stiffly. "Thank you Edward, your announcement was gracious and warm. We feel quite welcome."

Lizz nodded stiffly as well. "Yes, thank you on behalf of myself, my mate, and our chosen Firsts. That was a wonderful and complete introduction. Will we be seeing you at Dinner proper?"

Ed nodded just as stiffly. "You will be seeing me at Dinner proper, once all guests have arrived. If you will be gracious enough to excuse me, I must verify that if any additional guests are do to arrive. Although I believe your group was the last expected, and if so I will be rejoining shortly."

Mike nodded with a slight paw wave. "Of course. We will not keep you from your assigned tasks and shall look forward to speaking with you at length later."

With that, the group moved forward into the room and around the large and formally set table to a seating and reception area at the back of the room, which was down a mere half meter from the rest of the room. Mike Held up a paw. "Greetings friend and family. Wolford pack. I present to you my Mate and fiance Elizabeth, along with our chosen firsts, Nicholas and Judith."

Mike's mom looked up and shook her head with a barely contained smile. "Welcome home Michael. You have been away and hiding this truth already known to us for far too long. Please, join the conversation and be welcome."

Mike smiled and nodded stiffly. "Thank you mother, you are kind and gracious as always." Stepping down into the seating area, leading the others. "I apologize for my absence. As we discussed, it was born of fear from what my brother, Edward, underwent when he revealed his mate. I know now that there was nothing to fear. Though I wish to explain it was not fear for myself, but a desire to not expose my mate and love of my life, to such unsavory and painful trials. I hope you can understand my intentions and forgive us the transgressions."

Victoria Wolford nodded. "It is not your fault that you had such fears. It was the fault of myself and your father, Arron. We failed to communicate that we saw the errors of our ways in the treatment of your brother and his mate. That you need not fear such treatment once it was known to us that Elizabeth was your mate. For that, I and your father must apologize to you. As for your choice to protect your mate, that is honorable and right that you should do so, not knowing what you know now."

"Thank you mother, most gracious."

Lizz stepped next to Mike, careful to hold back the urge to pull him to her side. With a slight bow. "Lady Wolford. It is our honor that you have allowed Michael, myself, and our firsts into your home to share this meal with you. Would you honor me further by allowing me to introduce you?"

With a smirk and glance back at Elli, Victoria nodded stiffly. "The honor would be mind if you would introduce your chosen Firsts, Elizabeth."

With stiff nod, Lizz brought her paw back and drew Judy forward. "This is my chosen First, Judith Laverne WildeHopps, daughter of Steward and Bonnie Hopps, the Heads of the Hopps warren and current proprietors of Hopps Family Farms Limited Liability Corporation. Judy is currently a Sargent with the Zootopia Police Department out of Precinct One, and has been working on the anti-inter-species case that involved William Ekarts. This has resulted in a number of Zootopia Police Officers losing their jobs and receiving criminal charges of their own.

You will note her condition, and this is the joyous fault of her mate and spouse, and Michael's chosen First, Nicholas Piberius WildeHopps. Nicholas is also a Sargent with the Zootopia Police Department out of Precinct One, and is Judith's partner both on and off the force. His mother is Vivian Wilde, of Vivian's custom clothier in the Zootopia Mall. The clothing Michael, myself, and our Firsts, Nicholas and Judith are wearing are her custom work.

In the most joyous of news, you will also notice my condition, which is as noted with Nicholas and Judith, the joyous fault of your son, my mate, Michael Arron Wolford."

Victoria's eye twitched with the barest shake of her head. "Thank you for that concise, complete, and informative introduction." Turning to Nick and Judy. "Nicholas. Judith. It is a true honor to meet the heroes of the city that have taken down so many of our illustrious cities less than honest political mammals."

Judy bowed slightly. "The honor is ours, Lady Wolford. We were merely completing the actions expected of those who have chosen to serve this glorious and diverse city as members of the Zootopia Police Department. We never sought out the title of hero, though many in this city choose to label us as that."

With another stiff nod, Victoria turned her full attention to Nick. "And you Nicholas? Do you share in your mates desire to miss out of the recognition of your deeds? I am reasonably certain that you were not an Officer during the time you and Judith brought down both mayors of Zootopia, Leodore Lionheart and Dawn Bellweather."

Nick gave a short bow as well. "Most gracious, Lady Wolford. I would like to say that I was duly deputized, but that would be an untruth. Something that you are well aware was a daily part of my former life. At the very least up until the point where a certain Lagomorph, Oryctolagus cuniculus, my dearest mate and spouse, Judith, became a part of my life. While it might seem strange, our relationship is based on a trust and friendship that I would dare say few mammals experience. Something I am eternally grateful to Karma and Serendipity, that they daned to set her into the path of my life to reshape my life and myself as a mammal."

With a much larger facial twitch, Victoria nodded stiffly again. "I am quite familiar with yourself and your prior occupation, Nicholas. Though I do wish to assure you that while was never fond of your activities, I was impressed with them. That you went out of your way to ensure that, while you may have pilfered their money, you ensured that no one was ever physically injured by your activities. I am also well aware that most of the currency you obtained was passed on to your mother. In addition to the fact that for any of your more targeted efforts, you always ensured you did not place the targeted mammal in any long term financial jeopardy." Giving Nick a wink. "With a barest few, well deserving exceptions."

"Well, as my mate and spouse, Judith, has told me many times. I am nothing if not thoughtful and thorough in my planning of any activity that is not engaged in with deliberate spontaneity. Even those deserving few were gone into with great intention and forethought. I do not believe that my mate and spouse, Judith, would have tolerated me had I be a less conscientious mammal where those previous efforts were concerned. What say you my dearest, Judith?"

Judy suppressed a smirk. "I love you enough, my dearest, Nicholas, to forgive much, as we have discussed. Your activities were a different life, and a different version of yourself. Though the skills you earned during that earlier period of your life have served us both quite well in our current occupations as Officers of the Zootopia Police Department."

Nick nodded sagely. "This is a truth, Judith. However, one must acknowledge that those skills that have so served us as Officers of the Zootopia Police Department would have been wasted, had you not saw more to me than just a fox."

"As I have advised you so many times over these past many years, my dearest Nicholas. You are so much more than just a fox. You are my mate, spouse, and partner both as part of the Zootopia Police Department, and in our civilian lives."

Lizz spoke up. "It is a truth. When one observes them in the field, they are the pinnacle of professionalism, and prior to revealing their relationship to help Michael and I, had most Officers of the Zootopia Police Department convinced that they were not together. Even Michael and myself were fooled by them, until the dinner meeting where they revealed their knowledge of the relationship Michael and I shared, as well as revealed their own relationship to use in hopes of helping Michael and myself understand that we were not in truth of fact, alone. Actions for which Michael and I will be eternally grateful, and a portion of why we have chosen them as our chosen Firsts."

Victoria's twitch was getting very pronounced, as Mike piled on. "What my mate and fiance, Elizabeth, says is the truth of the situation for Elizabeth and myself. I do not believe that there is anything we could do, save joining with them as part of a pact, to even begin an effort to repay them for the kindness, understanding, and friendship that they have shown Elizabeth and myself."

At that point Ed entered the room, speaking loudly. "Family. Friends. Guests. Wolford pack. Dinner shall be served presently. Please take your positions at the table, that I may inform the service that we are ready." With that, he finished entering the room as the assembled mammals in the lounge area moved up the steps to the table and took their seats.

Victoria and Arron at the head of the table. Mike and Lizz to their right, followed by Ed and Elli, then Frank and his mate. To the left of the Alphas was Nick and Judy, Lizz's mom, followed by several senior pact members. Once everyone was seated, a prayer was offered to Luna and the Lady. The food arriving there after.

Nick enjoying the appetizer spoke up. "I must say, Lady Wolford. This grilled shrimp is simply divine, and if you will forgive the slight breach of protocol, I must share it with my mate and spouse, Judith. You see, due to her pregnancy with my kits, her body needs much larger quantities and quality protein. As such, she has become quite the omnivore as of late. Though in truth she has been such since a very tender age." With that Nick offered Judy one of his shrimp skewers, which she took and added to her salad happily.

Biting into the first shrimp, Judy signed after she swallowed. "Oh my. Thank you Nicholas, that was simply divine. We must ask for the recipe so that we may attempt to duplicate it. I dare say, it might even rival the shrimp at Therus, Nicholas."

"I would dare say I agree with you, Judith." Nick looked across the table at Mike. "What say you Michael? Do these wonderfully divine grilled shrimp not rival that of Therus?"

Mike nodded with a forced smile. "I would in fact suggest that these do in point of fact rival if not surpass the shrimp that master chef that is Finnic produces at Therus."

Lizz nodded her self in agreement. "I agree, that they rival the shrimp produced at Therus by the head chef of Therus, Finnic. That said, I do not feel that these divine shrimp quite come up to the shrimp that Finnic produces at Therus. What say you, Judith?"

"I am a fan of the head chef of Therus, Finnic's, shrimp. Especially when contained within the chicken, rice, and salsa of his buritos. I think that is the difference, Elizabeth. The shrimp produced by head chef of Therus, Finnic, is contained in a burrito, while these shrimp are presented and shine on their own, without the accompaniment of the chicken, salsa, and other ingredients of the burritos. With that fact point in mind, it is hard to judge honestly which is better."

Nick nodded. "My lovely mate and spouse, Judith has a legitimate point." The facial twitches of Victoria were getting extreme. "I trust her investigative prowess in her role as an Officer of the Zootopian Police Department, Precinct One. With that in mind, I think we must schedule a visit to Therus and have the head chef of Therus, Finnic, present us with some shrimp on their own. In this way, we can to a true comparison, come."

Mike popped up. "An exquisite idea, Nicholas. We must do that for dinner tomorrow, so that our memory of this divine shrimp is still fresh in our minds."

Lizz smiled lightly. "Excellent idea, I must most happily support and agree with this intention for tomorrow evenings dinner meal.

Victoria tried to take a drink of her wine and growled as she listened to them go back and forth. Growling out her words, cutting off all conversation. 'ENOUGH! The formal portion of the meal is over. Dear gods, you four... I just can't! You can collect whatever reward, be it bragging rights, money, or otherwise, for your win, Mike." Looking over to Lizz. "I have to say. I am quite proud and impressed by your performance. The way you behaved and carried yourself was perfect. I can see the time spent with Elli has done you well." Looking beyond Lizz to Elli. "You did really good, Elli. Really good. Keep up the good work." Returning her view to Mike and Lizz. "Now that the formal crap is over with. "

Mike smiled. "Mother, there is nothing for me to collect."

Victoria shook her head. "Don't play with me, pup. I know you and your brothers have had some kind of standing bet on how quickly you can get me to call and end to the formal part of the meal. I'm pretty sure half way through the appetizer is the current record."

Ed chuckled. "We all hate it mother, and you most of all. So yes, it is a running challenge, for bragging rights. Which Mike now steals the title for from Frank."

Victoria gave a nod. "I see, well Mike and Lizz clearly had some very skilled assistance. Focusing on the food, and drawing the comparisons was a very well played move, Nicholas. Especially by using the carnivorous bunny as a primer to get me off balance. I wasn't expecting that one. Well played."

Nick nodded. "Thank you ma'am. Please call me Nick, and this is Judy. My mate and spouse, as I'm sure you have heard a few dozen times now."

"Yes, I will be hard pressed to forget at this point. Now, Mike. What are your intentions with Lizz? Is it alright if I call you Lizz. Feel free to call me mom."

Lizz brightened up. "Thank you. Mom..."

Mike smiled warmly at Lizz before turning to his mother. "My intentions? My intention is to marry her once the cubs are born. Officially and formally in a proper wolf ceremony. Followed shortly there after to honor her culture with a Tiger ceremony."

Lizz's mother, Madeline spoke up. "There really isn't much for us, at least not our family, Mike. Whatever you choose to do is enough for us. Our concern is that Lizz has found the mammal that makes her happy and plans to stay around. So long as you are that mammal, we could not care less what species you are."

Mike grinned. "Thank you Madeline. That means so very much."

Victoria nodded with a smile. "I only wish our culture allowed for a simple elopement."

Nick chuckled. "You know, Mike. I know a mammal. I can have you hitched in the eyes of the city by morning."

Mike shook his head. "Thanks, Nick. Really. However, Lizz and I want to do it right."

Judy nodded and spoke up. "We get that Mike, and support the idea of doing it right, but there is also some strategy I think Nick is thinking of here." Looking at Lizz. "You should hear out his reasoning on this."

Lizz nodded. "Okay. Why, Nick? Why rush it?"

Nick smiled. "A few reasons, really. Despite the fact that you two have marked each other, you haven't claimed each other, and are at the moment therefore not seen as married by the city. Because of that, someone wishing to dispute or cause issues for you could point to that. Your reasons, legitimate or not at the time, put you in a bad spot. Whereas, if you elope. While they might be able to complain about it, it ends the line of argument about your lack of legal standing as married."

Mike nodded. "Okay. that makes sense. What else?"

"It also takes away any complaints or points of argument as to the legitimacy your cubs may have in the future." Nick turned to Victoria. "It is up to you if you were to join in on the ceremony, and it would be a very simple. Do you? Do you? Kiss, sort of thing. However, it would also give you a stronger footing when confronting those forces as Alpha, as your attendance would show support for them. Now, I also one hundred percent would suggest a proper wolf ceremony after the birth, with verification of the knot and everything. As that will close any final strong arguments against. Those that insist on not waiting will only make themselves look the intolerant and unreasonable fool, given Lizz's condition."

Victoria nodded. "Very good. Very good indeed. Excellent advice Nick. You capture the essence of the issue we find ourselves in. What say you, Judy?"

"I agree with Nick on these points as well. I would also add that more family attending this ceremony will strengthen your position against those that would challenge letting Lizz into your pack, especially as the mate of the Designate and possible future Alpha female. They will be intimidated by her not being a wolf but a Tiger, and therefore stronger and likely seen as unchangeable for her position, beyond just her not being a wolf." Judy looked across the table to Lizz. "This is very good advice and I agree with Nick fully on this. For the sake of yourselves, your cubs, and the recognition of your relationship within the pack. You need to get hitched tonight. With your relationship no longer a secret to the rest of the pack as of tonight. Those who would act against you and the Alpha's will be on the move. We need to give you, Mike, and your cubs, the best chance."

Lizz nodded and turned to Mike, thinking to him.

L: What do you think, love?

M: They are our firsts for a reason, and Nick's points are solid. We both know Judy would argue with him if she didn't agree, or would at least state as much.

L: You're right. Then let us get it done.

Judy spoke up, turning to Nick. "Nick. What about rings. It is kinda last minute."

Nick nodded. "They can pick them up tomorrow. We will meet on lunch, and if all else fails, we can always call Bucky and Pronk. I'm sure he'll hold open the shop for us."

Judy smiled. "I think they will at that."

Victoria watched Lizz and Mike carefully. "It can't be... Are you two..."

Lizz and Mike turned to Victoria, Lizz laughing nervously as Mike spoke. "I blame our Firsts. They do it all the time. Scares the living hell out of suspects. After hanging around them, it just kinda started happening between us these last few weeks. We're still getting there. Didn't mean to have the conversation, even a short one, without the rest of you."

Nick laughed. "It happens, buddy."

Victoria laughed in a way that seemed slightly off, and turned to the window that showed the full moon. "Oh dear Luna, is this how you chose to reveal your blessing? Yes, we must get you married tonight. No problem with the rings, we have those already, and since they are a gift from Arron and I, they will hold more weight."

Arron shook his head. "This is a direction I never expected this meal to go. They need only prove that they have the connection to a few key wolves and the arguments and fight will go completely out of the sails of those that would oppose. As Nick and Judy state. Getting them married now, will give them and their cubs the best chance, and with proof of the Luna gift. None will stand in the end. I have one question. Does it also work between you and your Firsts."

Lizz nodded. "It does."

Arron turned to Victoria. "That tears it then, Vic."

Victoria nodded. "I agree. Nick, can your mammal come here? Do they need to be retrieved?"

Nick nodded. "I'm sure they can, but I will need to make a few calls. May I?"

Victoria waved the question away. "Get them here and complete your task as First." With a nod, Nick stood, taking out his phone and waving Judy to follow. Victoria turned to Mike and Lizz. "Well, so far I am quite impressed with your choice of Firsts. They are both good mammals with good hearts, despite his background. If anything, I think that background is what makes him so much better a mammal now. I am not forgetting their protection of you both when you were outed at that restaurant. So how exactly did it happen, give me the whole story."

Lizz took a deep breath and after glancing at Mike, nodded. "It isn't some complex thing. Mike and I had been partners for some time, gotten closer, gone out as friends with other officers, etc... The usual strong friendship thing. Then Mike was sick one day. I called him and got no response. I was worried, but he had been sick before, and so had I, so why was I so worried about him? I ended up finding myself outside his apartment building and saw him through the window. I felt something. Something I wasn't familiar with." Lizz's mom was listening intently as well. "I found him trying to survive it himself. He was so sick. Next thing I knew, I was taking care of him."

Mike nodded. Yeah, after that, we spent even more time and I don't even remember who did it first, but a kiss happened. Then another."

"One thing led to another and I was calling off sick saying I had gotten sick. Wasn't sick."

Victoria laughed, as did Madeline. Victoria recovering first. "Oh, that's too perfect. Of course, given how long ago this was, it was right after the situation with Ed and Elli happened."

Mike nodded. "Yeah. We weren't even sure what we were to each other, and there was no way I was going to bring up that we were in any sort of relationship. We talked about it. We moved in together, but bought cases of musk mask and strong sent removing shower gels. I cannot express how much being able to smell myself on Lizz and her on me has reduced my stress."

Victoria nodded. "I cannot imagine how hard this has been on you, son. You still should have told us, but I also understand why you didn't, and why you hid it. Especially once it became more than just a passing fancy."

Lizz sighed. "I can speak only for myself, but I don't think it was ever a passing fancy. I think it was something growing. I was never one to care one way or the other about another mammals scent, unless it was offensive for not showering or something. But I'd always enjoyed Mike's scent, it was pleasant, and I would miss it when we were not together. He'd been over at my place for something, and I may have borrowed one of his shirts from his gym bag. It might have taken me taking care of him to force the issue, but I don't think, at least for me, that it was a passing fancy that became more."

Mike nodded. "I may, or may not, have borrowed one of her work out shirts. Because it had her scent so strongly on it. Something that I used to get me through when we were separated. Such as me and Judy being partnered while Lizz was put with Nick. They are good cops, but together, they compliment each other so well it's spooky."

Judy walked up. "Nick is almost done. As for complimenting each other. You two are just as bad, and you can ask Bogo to confirm if you don't believe me. The reason you two didn't key on the trick of moving in together openly the way Nick and I did, was because of the fear. But now we are both going to have new places to call home. A place where our relationships are the norm, where we will be able to come home and not have to worry about running into that speciesist or anti-inter neighbor. Where we already have friends."

Lizz nodded. "I am so looking forward to that."

Judy nodded. "I think we all are."

Stepping up, Nick had his usual sly grin pasted on. "The officiant should be here in about an hour. Only because Flash was getting gas, but was thankfully doing so full service. So you can expect a sloth in a supped up muscle car to show up with an absolutely terrified Red deer in the passenger seat."

Judy groaned. "What did you promise him?"

"Flash? Nothing."

"Nick..."

"Okay, I may have promised to pay for his gas for the next month and help him get into the next race sequence. They keep rejecting him because he's a sloth. We both know he drives better than most mammals."

Judy shook her head. "Okay, that isn't nearly as bad as I expected."

"I already burned my quota of ticket fixing for the year."

"Fin"

Nick nodded. "Fin."

Victoria smiled. "Efficient. I'm aware of Flash and his driving skills. Best getaway driver in Zootopia, retired. Never was actually caught. Mainly because when he got pulled over, his passengers had already been dropped off, and who that didn't know Flash was going to think of a sloth as a getaway driver."

Judy face pawed. "I suspected that, but never wanted to actually hear confirmation of it. Though without actual evidence, it isn't as if we can act on it. Besides, I like Flash."

Victoria laughed and motioned for the next course of the meal to be brought. "Excellent. Excellent." Pausing for a moment she smiled wider. "What is this I hear about you taking Lizz and Mike, and teaching them how to fight?"

Judy grinned. "Final step for Maria to give us our own rank as master."

"Maria?"

Judy nodded. "My combat master and college roommate. She trained me beyond what my Jack Savage tapes could teach me. She tested Nick and considers us ready for the final test. Teaching others. In this case, Mike and Lizz."

"Oh really. What, were you, The Bunny Avenger or something?"

Lizz laughed. "Mom. This is The Bunny Avenger and the Vengeful Vulpine, in the flesh. Their friend Fin they mentioned earlier, was The Fennec, and Judy's roommate was The Crimson Gazelle, her boyfriend at the time was Stripped Fury."

Victoria started to laugh and then frowned at the serious gaze from Lizz and Mike, as well as the glares from Judy and Nick directed at Lizz and Mike. "Wait... You're serious? They were... You were those characters?"

Nick groaned. "Guys. This is kinda defeating the purpose of you learning this. You're not supposed to just spread it around. I get telling your mom's, but there is more than just them here."

Judy nodded. "Consider this a first lesson. Paying attention to what, and who, is around you. Then considering your action, be that a move in combat, or conversation, and tempering what you say or do, to the moment and the audience."

Lizz and Mike nodded, speaking in unison. "Sorry."

Nick shrugged. "It's fine, guys. I get why you did it. Just put some thought into it next time. It isn't as if we are actively trying to suppress the information, we find just simply not bringing it up is more effective. Trying to suppress things tend to bring them to the surface faster. Which is another lesson. Call it lesson two. Subtlety of action can be far more effective in achieving a goal than loud, overt action. But you need to recognize an action for what it is. Throwing a punch in a bar may not seem subtle, but you need to ask yourself why. Perhaps there is the need for a distraction, or you're setting yourself up for something, or someone else. Subtle doesn't mean soft or even quite."

Conversation stopped for a few moments as the next course arrived, and Victoria and Madeline watched in further amazement as Nick cut a section of his fish and placed it on Judy's plate. The quiet clink of silverware on china, and the hum of appreciation as the assembled mammals ate their meal.

Judy savoring her piece of Nick's fish. "Victoria, this fish is divinely prepared. I know we went on at length about the shrimp, but this is truly inspired. If it is possible, I must have the recipe. I may eat meat, but I've never been very good at cooking it. At least not without a detailed recipe."

Shaking her head, Victoria smiled. "Considering I'm going to be providing this to a prey mammal, something I never in a million years expected. I'll be happy to get you the recipe, Judy. You just have to invite me to your house warming."

Judy smiled widely. "Well, as it is going to be a joint house warming, I assumed you would be invited by default. However, I am happy to make that official for Nick and Myself, as well as Lizz and Mike." Looking to Lizz's mother. "That goes for you as well Madeline."

Madeline smiled. "Thank you dear. I suspect you are right, but I accept your specific invitation."

Lizz smiled. "Of course you were both invited. We only dropped off the contract this evening on the way here and got our keys and door codes. Judy and I were going to discuss the actual move tomorrow and conference in her parents who are going to provide a gang of rabbits to help with both moves. Once that was arranged, we were then going to plan the home warming and who to invite, and as Judy said. Both of you, mom's, were invited by default."

Victoria grinned. "I see. So you had the plan and intent, but I just shorted it on you?"

"Essentially, yes. Though I am quite happy for that, as it allows us to assure you that you were first, top, and if no one else was invited, you both would be."

Arron laughed. "She's good, Vic. Good head on her shoulders. Both of their Firsts are ideal in all but species, and I have to say, that may be for their benefit. They will be underestimated. As will Lizz and Mike because she is his mate. The wedding we are about to have is proof of that. They think well ahead, play off each other and their ideas. The Firsts pick up on Lizz and Mike's intention and found a way to improve their position in a few moments, and are able to make it happen. Even if we did not have the rings to give, and they needed to arrange it completely on the fly, I suspect they could pull it off."

Victoria nodded, turning to her mate. "You have the right of it Arron. You have been observing Lizz and Mike. Beyond the gift, how do the behave?"

"Restrained. Cautious. But hopelessly in love as well. The looks between them. They communicate constantly, just like Nick and Judy do. It isn't all the gift either. They know each other, so a look, set of the ears, tail, nose twitch. They need only see each other and they will know the others mind. They will make fine Alphas, and Nick and Judy are ideal Firsts for them."

Looking between the mammals at the table, Victoria nodded. "I agree. Could we put them through more tests? Sure... I don't see a point, the council is going to push things farther than needed anyway. They need our support not our examination."

"My sentiment exactly, my love."

Lizz looked over to Victoria and Arron. "Mom... Victoria. Uhm... I apologize, I didn't get a chance to fully internalize everything Elli tried to impart to me today." Lizz glanced to Elli who gave her a reassuring smile as Lizz took a deep breath. "Lady Wolford. There are some wolves who have honored us over the past few days whom I would like to bring to your attention."

Grinning, Victoria leaned forward. "That is excellent. Since we're past the formal part of the evening, Mom or Victoria are sufficient to bring up such mammals. So tell me, who has done you such honor to deserve to be brought to our attentions?"

Lizz smiled. "They are wolves we have encounter and who have done us great services and honor." Lizz pulled her note book out. "I hope you don't mind, but I kept notes. Elli insisted, and while I'm trained to keep things in mind as a cop, that's just until I get a chance to put it in a report at the end of the day. This was a bit different then remembering the details of a pursuit."

Her grin getting wide enough to show teeth, with a proud air to her, Victoria motioned for Lizz to continue. "Not an issue at all. I keep one as well. Go on."

Lizz nodded, her ears folding in embarrassment a moment before she righted them and took another deep breath. "First was a lovely she-wolf, Eustace Darkfur, who defended us against a speciesist ass of a wolf, Frank Rankor. Also a neighbor of our current home. I'm afraid I didn't know to ask her pack affiliation at the time."

"Not a problem. I take it this was an encounter from right after you became open and before everything spiraled on you."

Lizz nodded. "It was our first day open about our relationship. The first day we didn't cover our scents."

"Oh. I'm so sorry to hear that."

"We have Nick and Judy, Ed and Elli, and others who give us support we didn't know we had. It has been freeing, and stressful, but not entirely in a bad way."

"That's good. Arron, that name sounds familiar. Eustace... Do we know her? I know a few different Darkfur wolves."

Arron nodded. "It does sound familiar. Won't take a moment to check. Please, Lizz continue. I'll check on her."

Lizz nodded. "Thank you, Arron."

"Feel free to call me Dad, if you want as well."

Lizz smile turned into a wider, happy grin. "I'll do that, Dad. Moving on." Giving him a brighter smile. "While we were on our apartment hunt. The first place we stopped had a real speciesist and anti-inter jerk of a manager. A Gretta Wolvesbane, of Wolford pack defended us. Up to and including threatening him that she would make sure Wolford pack blacklisted the complex until he was removed by the management company."

Victoria laughed. "Ah yes. I got a call from Gretta. She's a good wolfess. That jerk is out on his tail as of yesterday. I wasn't aware that it had to do with you two looking for a new place to live. Credit to her that she only asked we take care of it by contacting the management company." Taking out her own notebook. "She definitely deserves some credit for her defense of you, and helping to get rid of that jerk, and without trying to claim more than just doing that."

Lizz nodded. "I'm glad. Now for the big guns. Frank Erzats of a secondary aligned pack called Ether. He's an Zuber driver. He picked up Judy's family from the train station and was very gracious to them." Judy nodded with a smile. "Then, when our initial Zuber driver dumped us on the side of the freeway..."

Victoria growled. "A Zuber driver did what‽"

Lizz nodded. "Yes, when he realized that most of us in the car, save Judy's mom, were inter's he dumped us on the side of the freeway. Zuber corporate was very apologetic, arranged credit back for the ride and then some, and made sure another driver could pick us up. Our college, Delgato and his partner stopped and protected us from traffic until Frank could get there. He was so mad about what happened, and that was before he realized who Elli and I were. Then I think he was even madder. Wasn't going to charge us, even if corporate hadn't already covered it. When we left the mall, he was the one that drove us to Therus, and we invited him to eat with us. I give him credit for holding his howl until we were all inside the restaurant."

Victoria giggled. "Oh, he must be a younger male."

Arron nodded with a laugh glancing up from his tablet, no one sure where it's procured it from. "Yep. He's twenty. They only aligned with us recently, after moving here. They're a one family pack."

Victoria turned to Mike. "How did he behave at dinner?"

"Nervous, but respectful. He did well by himself and his pack."

"Okay, any more, Lizz?"

Lizz shook her head. "I'm sure there are more. There were the Nightwolf pack wolves and the actual Wolford wolves that stood up for us when our group was accosted in the mall. I never thought I would have any respect for Duke Weaselton, but he hustled those idiots well and happily gave a statement that will see them behind bars for years."

Judy laughed. "Yeah. Duke really isn't that bad a mammal, he like so many other marginalized species just never got a chance to be anything other than who he is."

Lizz chuckled. "You should make him a CI for you and ..." Seeing the look and Judy and Nick's face. "Never mind."

Judy smiled with a nod. "Right. There is someone I would also like to bring to your attention, if I may."

Victoria nodded and motioned for Judy to continue. "As their first, I demand it."

"Another Zuber driver. Jake Grrowlson of a boarder pack called Yerk. Also very newly joined I believe. He was very gracious, but my concern is for his family. Brother specifically. His brother and high school sweetheart were targeted by the same group that targeted Bill Ekarts. Charged him with rape, etc... Those charges have been dropped, but her family moved her to a city where inter-species relationships are jail time. They both turn of age next month. I'm hoping that you might be able to get a message to her that, if she is able to make it back here, Jake and his family will welcome her with open arms, even if she and his brother do not end up back together."

Victoria nodded with a small smile. "Oh, I see. Well, I can see why you would bring it to my attention. I'm not sure what we can do, but it is certainly something we can look into. So not asking to facilitate, just let her know that she has a safe haven here. Something that, if she come here after her birthday."

Judy nodded. "She cannot be forced to return unless she wants to, and she will have family waiting with open arms and acceptance of her without condition."

"I'm glad you brought this up. It seems the Grrowlson's of Yerk have shown an honor many packs and families forget. That family and pack is about more than the words. Thank you Judy."

Judy gave a deep nod. "It was my pleasure to bring this to you attention. We cannot make the decisions for them, but they should have the choice."

Victoria gave Judy a warm smile. "I totally agree. Our goal as Alphas." Turning her attention to Mike and Lizz. "Is to guide the pack. Yes, we can make decrees, give orders for things to be done. However, our goal must always to to support the health of the pack. That means that decisions must be made that we do not always like, because it is what is best for the pack, even if it is not in our own best interests. Pack and family before self. Because the pack is family. Other decisions will not be popular with the pack, but they are made with the packs best interests in mind. Even if they do not realize it at the time.

Those decisions can be as simple as decreeing that the pack will no longer do business with a given chain of store. The pack has a lot of political and social pull, and as Alpha you can use that to shape the culture of the pack, and the city that the pack makes it's home within. It is a power that must be wielded carefully and with care. To abuse that power can compromise the authority as Alpha, as well as the security and health of the pack."

Mike looked at his mother in shock. "Mom..."

Giving Mike a smirk, Victoria chuckled. "Not to worry Mike. Your father and I have no intention of stepping down any time soon. You both have a lot to learn, and your own family to focus on. However..." Looking over to Nick and Judy, looking to the elder wolf and council member who gave her a smile and nod, before returning her attention to Mike and Lizz. "Unless you two do something monumentally stupid, I do not see any reason why you will not become Alpha when your father and I do decide to step down. Your choice of First shows forethought and a consideration for different viewpoints in making a decision. You show restraint and acknowledge your lack of knowledge, but seek to learn and push through instead of pulling back. These are good traits for an Alpha."

Mike nodded, his ears folding slightly in embarrassment at the compliment. "Thank you mom."

"No need to thank me. I state simply the truth. Now, the officiant is here, and they were apparently just as terrified as you suggested, Nick. Flash did not however stick around. His loss. If everyone is finished with their meal, I think it is time we have a wedding." Victoria clapped her paws together with a maniacal grin. "We'll save desert as the post ceremony treat as we lack a cake..." Putting a paw to her ear, a confused look coming over her face. "I see. It would seem that we do have a cake. From Gideon's..." She looked over to Nick and Judy who returned a pair of knowing, proud, smiles. "Well, you two just keep scoring points. How do you two know Gideon and can get him to open up and hand over a cake at this time of night?"

Judy rocked on her feet. "Gid may or may not have been my bully as a kit. He's much better now, and Nick and I consider him a close friend."

Nick nodded. "I admit to wanting to rip out his throat for clawing Judy as a kit, but she forgave him, so I have to as well. Besides, his blueberry pie is absolute ambrosia." Turning to Judy. "Reminds me. Now that Fin owns Therus, we should recommend he farm out his deserts to Gid. Would be a good partnership between them. Fin is a pro level chef, but a mediocre baker."

Judy nodded, following Victoria as she started to lead the way out of the room. "That isn't a bad idea at all. Gid has been looking for a better location in Zootopia proper. There is that large, empty shop next to Therus."

Nick nodded. "Good thinking." Both of them had their phones out. "You text Gid, I'll text Fin. Fin can get the info on that shop and do the negotiations for Gid."

Judy chuckled. "Perfect."

Both typed away at their phones for a few moments before putting them away with grins on their faces. Victoria glancing back with a chuckle. "So, what will you two get out of that arrangement?"

Nick smiled back. "Two of our friend who have businesses having their businesses do better. Gid gets a prime location. Fin gets to market Gid's pies, while Gid gets a small part of the profit from those sales at Therus, which drives sales at his shop when it is open. Gid could even add some small Therus menu items like sandwiches and wraps to his menu. Both our friends do better. Judy and I probably get a few free pies or diners."

Victoria nodded with a smile. "Good."

"Fin can probably get Gid a really good, and long, contract on the place next door, since it has been open for so long. No other restaurant or similar place wants to go in there and try and compete, raw, against Therus. Gid would seem to be doing that, but when Therus customers ask if they can get whole pies and are told no, but they can get whole pies next door, and what they are eating is from next door."

Victoria opened another door showing a tasteful wedding set up, a nervous red deer standing by the alter. "Ah! That makes sense. Therus and Gideon's pushing business towards each other. Gideon might be getting less per whole pie sold overall at Therus, but for every pie sold by the slice in Therus, it'll drive several pies worth of business into his shop directly, plus follow up business. Same with the simple paw meals, such as wraps and such. Mammals will come back to check out the full Therus menu."

Nick nodded. "Exactly."

The deer saw Nick and glowered at him. "Wilde! What the hell have you gotten me into?"

Nick smiled and Looked to Victoria. "I've got this. He's still coming down from the adrenaline rush of riding with Flash." Nick walked past and put out his paw. "Harvey, my mammal! So good to see you. Now, you do know where you are, right?"

Harvey glared at Nick. "No. I actually do not. Now why am I here. You said you needed full service with filing first thing in the morning, and cashing in a favor for it."

"You're going to be marrying the Wolford pack Designate and his chosen mate. It is kind of an elopement signed off on by the pack Alphas."

Harvey's eyes went wide and his voice dropped in shock. "You're kidding."

"Harvey, buddy. Look behind me. See the Wolford Alphas standing there. The younger wolf that looks like their son? That's the Designate. That lovely, and very pregnant tiger next to him and holding his paw, that's his chosen mate. To answer the rest of your questions. They've been mated for several years but hiding it. No, too long and not the time to go into why. They're out and open now, but need to get hitched to help secure their positions and ensure their pups don't have unfair legitimacy arguments made."

Harvey took all that in, looked up at the wolves, tiger, and rabbit standing by the door, with others waiting behind them. "Okay. I get what you are selling Nick." Straightening up, Harvey shook himself out and stepped past Nick, holding out out a hoof towards Victoria. "Lady Wolford. Harvey Treesome, Universal Life and Love non-denominational Officiant. It is my honor to be here and to officiate this ceremony. Please forgive my earlier outburst. I am not accustomed to traveling in such a manner as that sloth is capable of achieving."

Victoria shook the offered hoof. "It is quite all right. I can imagine few mammals that would handle being driven around by Flash, at any time, let alone when he is in a hurry, who would not be shaken up at least a little."

Harvey nodded. "I am certainly one of those mammals. Now, what sort of ceremony do you wish. Do you want invocations of Luna, or something more generic?"

Victoria turned to Mike and Lizz. "It's your wedding. So I leave it up to you. The goal is to get you married and secure your position. The rest, though last minute, is flexible."

Mike nodded. "Give us a few moments to discuss and confer with our Firsts. Nick, Judy, please."

Nick and Judy stepped to the side with Mike and Lizz, but no audible words were spoken.

L: Okay. So this is really happening? (Lizz's nerves clear in her mental voice.)

M: It seems so. This is so crazy. What do we want? We hadn't even thought that far ahead yet.

N: Deep breath guys. Harvey will hook you up no matter what you decide on. First recommendation. Keep it simple.

J: I agree with Nick. Though simple doesn't mean you cannot also make it special. You're going to have a big wolf wedding, with all the embarrassing extras. This is your chance to craft something special for just yourselves.

L: But I dont' even have a proper dress.

J: And what are you wearing now? Add some flowers and you're golden.

M: Okay then. Lizz, you always said you would want the invocation of Gdon. to bless our union since they were often seen as a hybrid themselves.

L: That would be great. If Harvey can do it.

N: I'm absolutely sure he can. Even if he needs a few minutes and some paper to put that together. What else?

J: Mike, I'm assuming there are flower beds here?

N: Covered. Otterton

J: Roger.

M: What are you two up to.

N: Flowers and a bouquet are in bound. Price. Getting to attend. Think you can set aside some room for a small family of otters?

M: No problem.

L: What kind of flowers?

N: These are professionals. Told them it was a wedding between a male wolf and tigress. They said they knew just what to bring and will be here soon.

L: Oh wow. Guys...

M: I know love. Now. Invocation of Gdon, and a minor Lunar blessing for me. Other than that, I'm happy to be getting to marry you. It could be a simple Do you. Do you. Done.

L: I know, but even I am a girl in this area. I wish my dad was here. Do you think your dad would be willing to give me away?

M: I think he would shed a tear if you asked him. Yes, I'm sure he would.

J: Great. Now we need some bridesmaids and groomsmammals.

M: Nick. Would you be my best Mammal?

N: Of course. What about your brother?

M: He's on my side by default.

L: Judy? Would you?

J: Just don't give me a hard time if I cry, okay?

L: Never.

J: So Elli will also be on your side I'm guessing. We need two more.

N: What about Mikel and Joan?

L: I'm on board with that idea. Mike?

M: Sounds good to me. You think they can make it?

N: What kind of boost would attending give them? Unless their dead, they'll make it. Any other guests we should try and get?

L: Frank, the Zuber driver.

M: Oh, that poor wolf. He definitely needs to be a guest.

J: I just requested him as a Zuber. Says he'll be here in about 20 minutes.

N: Great. That'll give him a chance to go back and pick up his family.

M: Perfect. Though we'll give them the option of course.

N: Of course. I doubt they'll turn it down though.

J: What about the Grrowlson's? I know I was the one who interacted with them, but that would come close to filling up the space. Mostly wolves, but a seasoning of other species to round it out and match with you two.

M: Agreed. We'll have dad reach out to them. Can we invite anyone else, maybe Eric and Jeff?

J: That would be perfect, you call them while Nick and I organize a few more things. If we think of anyone else, we'll let you know, or if you do, tell us. So we're going to be a few hours out from the actual ceremony. The full moon should be near it's highest when we do this.

N: That would be ideal, wouldn't it Mike? We need to start making a few calls and texts to close this up.

M: Gods, yes. If we can do it at the zenith, right about midnight, that would be perfect.

J: Anything else you two can think of that you want or need to have included?

M: No.

L: No. It is going to be perfect just because I am marrying my wolf. Everything else...

M: Exactly.

N: Alright. Judy. Lets do this.

Judy nodded with a laugh and turned back towards the other mammals in the room only a few bare seconds after they had all stopped moving. "Yes. Lets." Turning to Victoria. "Victoria. We need a room where Lizz can get ready and be isolated from him." Thumbing over at Mike. "As well as a somewhere for the groom to be sequestered at well."

Nick jumped in. "We're also moving this outside. I assume you have a nice, gently lit outside garden space that will work well with some guests. We'll need one of you to reach out to the Grrowlson's and have them here in time for the ceremony. Judy has already requested a Zuber from Frank, and he should be here in about twenty minutes. At that point she'll turn him around to go pick up his family, if they wish to be guests. Same with the Grrowlson's." Looking at his phone. "Florists should be here in forty five or so. I need to call a photographer."

Victoria blinked at them as they had only just stepped away. "Wait! You four? Just now?"

Nick nodded with a laugh. "Yes. Faster that way. Anyway. Lizz's dress will be here in about an hour and a half. Does Mike have a Suit he can use here?"

Arron nodded. "He can use one of mine. It might not be a perfect fit, but it'll be close."

"No worries. I'll tell mom to bring her kit."

Lizz looked down at nick. "Vivian is bringing me a dress?"

Nick nodded again with a smirk. "She already has your measurements and has been working on it. I'm sure you'll love it."

Lizz's ears folded back in surprise. "I know I will."

Victoria laughed. "Oh Luna save us. If this is how good you are at the last minute, I pity those who will pit themselves against you and give you time. Judy, Lizz. This way. Arron. I think your Study would be a good place for the men."

Judy smiled up at Victoria. "Lead the way. Elli, you're with us." Pulling out her phone and dialing Joan. "Joan. ... I know what time it is. I need you and Mikel at the Wolford pack estate as soon as you can get dressed in your nicest and get over here. ... You heard me, fox. Get that tail in gear. I've got a wedding to pull off and I need guests. Oh, and you're going to be a bridesmaid, so take that into account when you get dressed. Mikel will be a groomsmammal. ... Good. See you then."

Nick also had his phone out as he followed Arron, making sure the other males in the group followed along as well. "Joff, my mammal." Glancing back at Harvey. "Harvey, with us. There are some specifics we need to discuss. Invocations and such." His attention turning back to his phone. "... Yes, I'm in the middle of pulling off a last second wedding. Inter couple. ... Wolf and Tiger. ... Wolford Pack estate. ... You heard me right. ... Like now. Ceremony is going to happen within the next few hours. ... You're the best. Yes, absolutely you'll be able to use the photos. I was going to ask you if you would. Awesome. See you in an hour."

Mike laughed. "So photographer is set?"

Nick nodded as they entered Arron's study. "Yep. Lets seen. Flowers in bound. Gid will be delivering more treats. Oh, I need to call Fin and have him bring over some food. Clothes are taken care of, or will be."

Mike shook his head. "What about music?"

"That's the other reason I need to call Fin." Nick looked up at Arron. "Okay, Lets get that suit for Mike in here and on him so we can test fit and I can send photos to my mom." Turning his attention to Ed. "Ed, your job is to keep him in here until the ceremony. If he needs to pee, you escort and take him to a bathroom in the opposite direction of the ladies. Got it?"

Ed nodded. "Yes."

With a nod, Nick pulled his phone out again. "Just another moment Harvey." Dialing Fin, he let hit ring. "Hey, buddy! ... Calm down. I got a win for your bizz on tap. ... I know you just closed. That actually works out in both our favor. See, I need you to cater a wedding. ... No. Nothing so complex, just wraps and burritos to feed about fifty or so. Mostly predators, wolves, and a smattering of prey. So figure fifteen prey and thirty preds. ... Sides? Sure, if you can pull it off. I need it in two hours, delivered. ... Hey, calm down and listen a second. I need it at the Wolford pack estate." Nick flinched at the shocked shout. "Yeah. See, you'll be catering the wedding of the Wolford pack Designate and his chosen mate. ... I'm serious. ... Yes, the pregnant tiger and her wolf. ... No. In fact we are going to want you to crow loudly about it. ... Yes. ... Exactly right. ... Yeah, that's fine. It's a midnight ceremony anyway. ... Definitely. Oh! Bring your DJ gear. Play this right and you'll get business to cater and DJ more weddings. ... See you then."

Nick grinned and turned to Harvey. "Okay Harvey my mammal. They want an invocation to Gdon for Lizz and a Lunar blessing. Not a big long, drawn out thing, but... Well you do your thing."

Harvey smiled. "I got you Nick. I need something to write on."

Arron handed him a legal pad and pointed to the desk. "Make yourself comfortable. I will call the Grrowlson's while I pull a suit. Any specific color?"

Nick glanced at his phone and checked his texts. "Dark blue or black. Unless you have a super deep forest green?"

Arron nodded and turned, walking out of the room"I'll see what I have."

Nick smiled up at the clearly overwhelmed Mike. "Sorry about a lack of bachelor party, Mike. I'll get together with some of the guys and we'll take you out for drinks, but no strippers. I'd rather not have Lizz skin us both and Judy help."

Mike laughed. "They totally would."

xxxx In Victoria's Drawing room xxxx

Judy was on her phone. "Gideon. ... Yeah, the wedding is spiraling. Can you... That would be amazing. ... Wolford Pack Estate just like the initial request. ... The wedding of the Designate and his mate. ... No, I'm not pulling your tail. ... Need it delivered within two hours. ... A three tier? Chocolate and dark berries? Canine safe? ... Really? ... Oh, Gid that is amazing! ... No, we want you to add the fact to any promotional material. ... Yes, I'm serious. We want the entire city to know. ... Nope, last thing we want is it being a secret starting tomorrow afternoon. ... You are the best, Gideon. See you in a few hours."

Lizz looked down at Judy. "I'm just... This is really happening?"

Judy grinned up at Lizz. "It very much is, and if Nick and I have anything to say about it, it'll be as perfect as we can make it." Turning to Elli. "Elli. you're job is keeping her in this room. If she has to pee, you escort and go to a bathroom away from the boys. Got it?"

Elli laughed and nodded. "I got it." Looking up at Lizz. "You hear that sis?"

Lizz shook her head. "This is so crazy!"

Judy turned to Victoria. "Do you have makeup that would work for Lizz? Some fur-dust or something?"

Victoria shook her head. "I'm afraid I do not."

Judy turned to Madeline. "Madeline? Maybe not on you, but that you could get here quickly?"

"I'll call the boys. They should be here for their sisters wedding anyway." Stepping into the hallway to make the call.

Judy grinned. "Perfect." Her phone pinging that her Zuber was there. "Elli, Lizz is under your charge. I'll be back as soon as I get Frank sorted out."

Judy, led by Victoria, made their way to the front door. Finding Frank there looking at his phone, they both smiled. Judy approached. "Hi Frank, thanks for coming so quickly."

Looking up from his phone, Frank smiled. "Happy to be of service Mrs. WildeHopps."

"Call me Judy. Question for you Frank. How would you like to be part of a wedding?"

Looking at the rabbit with a bit of confusion, Frank shrugged. "I suppose it would depend on the mammals in question. Your sister and her weasel?"

Judy smiled brighter. "Nope. What would you say to the impromptu wedding of the Designate and his mate?"

Frank was quiet for a moment. "Are you pulling my tail? I already got to share a meal with them."

"Not pulling your tail." With a smirk, Judy pointed to the wolf standing nearby and chuckled when she saw Frank freeze for a moment.

Recovering after a moment, Frank's ears folded down. "Lady Wolford. It is an honor." Giving a deep bow.

With a warm smile, Victoria stepped forward. "You have honored me, Frank Erzats, with your treatment of Lizz and Judy, as well as the others that were with them. You and your family have been invited to the wedding of my son, the Designate, and his mate Lizz. Do you think you could retrieve your family, safely, within what, an hour and a half, Judy?"

Judy nodded. "Yes, if you ad your family could be here within an hour and a half, that would be perfect."

Frank glanced between them, realized that he was not having his tail pulled, and was unable to suppress a grin. "We live only a dozen blocks away. I will call them and we will be here. Thank you Lady Wolford. Judy. You honor me and my family."

Victoria waved it off. "I think Mike is trying to thank you for your treatment of his mate in the best way he can within the pack, by granting you and your family this honor. Now, be off. Go get your family."

Frank's grin was splitting his face in half. "Thank you ma'am. We will be here in time."

They saw Frank off, waiting and watching. Hearing his howl a few moments after his break lights were out of sight. The muffling of the how showing that he kept all his windows up when he did it.

Looking down at Judy, Victoria laughed. "I'll give him credit for control. Most wolves wouldn't have made it out of the driveway. He has potential. I'm glad they decided to invite him and his family. They're wolves to be watched, for sure."

They headed inside just as a car with three tigers hopped out, one carrying a large case. Judy saw this and motioned them over. "You, with the case, what was your name again?"

"Larry."

"Right! You're the one Joan hired. Great, bring you and that case. Victoria, I can get back to the room. Can you lead these fine gents to that room where we were initially going to hold the wedding? That seems like a good guest holding area. Larry, with me."

Victoria chuckled. "That is actually it's purpose when we hold meetings here at the house. This way boys."

Victoria let the way, Earl and Allen following with slightly bemused looks at a rabbit seeming to give direction to one of the Wolford pack Alphas. Larry following Judy to where Lizz was.

A few minutes later, Larry and Judy entered Victoria's Drawing room. Larry smiled seeing Lizz. "Hey sis."

Turing quickly. "Larry! What are you doing here?" Then seeing the case. "Wait, isn't that mom's largest makeup case? What are you..." Her eyes going wide and switching to Judy. "No! No way!"

Judy nodded and bounced on her toes and grinning evilly. "Yep. As soon as Viv gets here with the dress and makes any alterations, which should be minor... You, Lizz, are getting your makeup did!"

Madeline walked in with a smile. "Excellent! Now we just need the dress." Looking to Lizz with a disapproving look. "Why didn't you tell me about your encounter with your cousin?"

"I was going to, but other things kinda happened. He's ..."

"I know he's an Inter like you, and I couldn't give a shit. You should know that by now."

Lizz put her paws up in surrender. "No, it's not that. He's worried about the rest of the family. I'd invite him and his girlfriend tonight if I could. They deserve to be able to be somewhere together where others won't judge them."

Victoria had slipped in behind Madeline. "Who is this, dear?"

"My cousin. Jason Fangmeyer. He's dating a Maned Wolf. They're hiding from the wider family like Mike and I were, though just until he finishes his degree and can get established. That way if the family cuts him off it won't hurt their futures."

Victoria nodded. "I see. Madd? What do you think?"

"I think I am getting tired of these young cubs being forced to hide who they love just because they're in relationships that others don't approve of. If it is consenting and no one is being hurt, why is it their business. I mean look at ours? They were so scared, and for cause too. I'm sure Nick and Judy went through a lot too."

Lizz nodded. "You should hear the story about why Judy still doesn't have her sapphires. I still can't believe your dad did that Judy."

Judy shook her head. "He's better now, and really is trying. That however is a topic for another time. Tonight is about you Lizz." Turning to Madeline. "If you can get Jason and Angie here tonight, that would be awesome, but I know Lizz wouldn't want to place them at risk."

Victoria shook her head. "I agree Madd. I'm not sure how we do it yet, but get them here. I think it is nearly time to wield some of that political clout that comes with being Alpha. Though, as Judy says. Not tonight. That's planning for tomorrow."

Madeline nodded. "I'll call him."

Judy suddenly straightened up.

N: Mom just texted. Her Zuber is less than five minutes away.

J: On it. I'll meet her at the door. Lizz's brother just showed up with her mom's makeup case. So she's going to be primped and done up for Mike. Don't tell him. We want to get the surprise on his face in the photos.

N: Totally! That's great. His dad had several ideal color suits, so as soon as mom is done with Lizz, she'll need to zip over here to make sure the suit is fitted perfect.

J: Awesome.

Judy grinned. "The Dress will be here in a moment. I'll be right back. Elli, you know the drill."

Judy jogged out of the room and headed for the front door. There she found Ed standing and waiting. "Hi Ed. What's up? Thought you were overseeing and keeping an eye on Mike."

"Was, but dad has taken on that job. Now I'm on door duty. Lots of mammals showing up. I have to show mammals where to go. I take it you're here for a pickup."

"Vivian. Nick's mom."

"Oh? Why her?"

"She's got Lizz's dress and will then do some quick fixing to Mike's borrowed suit."

"Oh, that's amazing. You and Nick are amazing. I can't believe you two are pulling this together this fast."

Judy gave him a wide smile as he opened the door for her just as two cars pulled up. "It's mostly Nick, I'm just driving this train, he's the engine powering it. Come on. Help me help Vivian."

Leaving the door open, Ed followed Judy to the Zuber carrying Vivian. A few moments later, Ed along with Mikel, who was driving the other car that arrived, were loaded down with garment bags, while Joan, Judy, and the Zuber driver were carrying several large cases, and all headed towards the Drawing room.

The Zuber driver, a lynx, with her willingness to help, was invited to stay as a guest. They agreed as long as they could retrieve their own mate. Something they were all happy to allow as she was actually a reporter for the ZNN print division. After a short call, Judy leading, he would write up a story, run it by Judy, Victoria, Nick, and Arron, and then post it in the following nights evening edition. In exchange for their input and veto, he would get several video interviews to go with the story.

Ed and Mikel were back on door duty after dropping off their loads just as Fin arrived with food and his DJ equipment. Mikel assisted Fin while Ed continued to man the door and escort the flood of guests to the waiting area. Victoria had pulled in Mike and Ed's brother Frank to oversee the outside setup. Judy was soon circulating to the outside location to make sure things were getting put together as they should be.

As soon as the florists showed, Judy left the primping of Lizz to the capable paws of Lizz's mother, Elli, and Joan, while she and Victoria made sure the outside setup was done right. There were several different types of tiger lilies, Tulips, Lupine, Pansies, and roses of multiple colors including a deep, rich blue and red so dark it was nearly black.

The Otterton's were arguing with Frank when Judy and Victoria arrived. That dispute was quickly put to rest and the outside venue in the garden quickly came into shape. Lizz's dress was done and Vivian was making the minor alterations needed to Mike's suit. She had also brought dresses for the rest of the bridesmaids which were quickly fixed up for each of them. She also had a suit for Nick, and made minor tweaks to the suits of Ed, Frank, and Mikel.

Two and a half hours after the wedding had been proposed, the guests were being seated.

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Nick looked at Mike. "Damn Mike. You look good, mammal."

"I don't feel good. I'm feel like I'm going to throw chunks. I'm freaking out, Nick. What if this isn't perfect the way you and Judy are trying to make it? What if Lizz gets cold paws? What if..."

Nick reached up and wrapped both paws around Mike's muzzle, silencing him and pulling Mike's face down so he could look him in the eyes. "Mike. Stop. She's carrying your pups. You two have been mates for years. She's not going to get cold paws. I promise you, Judy and I have done all we can to make this special for you two. It isn't going to be perfect. That is impossible, but this isn't about it being perfect. This is about you professing your love for each other openly, officially, and most importantly. This isn't about anything but the two of you." Checking his phone, Nick nodded. "Okay, buddy. Lets go. Time to get you in place."

Nick led Mike to the arch where Harvey waited with a bright smile. "Nick. Mike. You ready there mammal?"

Mike chuckled nervously. "We've been mated for more than four years, and yet I'm terrified. This makes it so much more real, and we're doing this in front of mammals. I know most of these mammals."

Harvey chuckled. "Nothing to worry about, son. You're no different then any other mammal that has stood in front of me. You'll do fine, just remember to speak up so everyone can hear you. Yes, only she and I actually need to hear you, but all these mammals came here to join in your joy of making it official. So speak up for them."

Mike nodded and swallowed heavily. "Okay. Got it."

Nick smiled up at Mike. "Okay Mike. Things will be starting in just a few minutes. Just don't pass out and you're golden. You need a drink? Need to pee? Anything before we pull the trigger?"

Mike shook his head. "No."

With that, Nick walked back down the isle to make sure everything was ready, checking with Fin off to one side in the back before slipping back into the house. There he found Arron standing in his own freshly tailored suit. "You ready to give away your soon to be official daughter in law, Arron?"

Arron shook his head with a chuckle. "Still not quite believing it. As ready as I will ever be. I'm really just walking her down the isle. I sure hope her actual father, Luna watch over and rest his soul, doesn't mind."

"Well, I'm sure he'd want to do it if he were here, but I'd say you make a good stand in." Closing his eyes he reached out to Judy for the umpteenth time that night.

N: Mike is in place. Ready to signal Fin. I'm going to grab the other guys. Time for everyone but you and Lizz. Send'em over.

J: On their way. Lizz and I will be there too, just down the hall.

N: Roger.

Nick looked up at Arron again. "Okay. The ladies are on their way. I'm going to go get the guys. Right now, just keep everyone out and take a deep breath. You are looking as nervous as Mike."

"I am!"

With a shake of his head, Nick jogged back to Arron's study and a few moments later everyone was in place. Nick poked his head out the doors, gave Mike and Harvey a signal and then signaled Fin who shifted from simple mood music to what everyone but Lizz would enter to.

Mikel and Joan walked down first, then Ed and Elli, followed by Nick and Judy. Once they were all in place, Nick checked to see Arron peaking out the door. Getting the prearranged ear signal from Arron, Nick signaled Fin in the same way, and the first bars of Cannon in D started up as a full orchestral piece. Once the first few bars started, the only sound that could be heard was the light night breeze blowing just enough to shift the fur of the assembled mammals as they all turned to look at the doors.

As the thirty second mark hit, those door opened to reveal Arron standing next to Lizz. They started walking forward and there was a quiet but noticeable gasp. Arron's tux was crisp and perfect, and showed him off perfectly, but Lizz was what every eye was focused on.

As they stepped forward the cream, strapless dress that showed off her shoulders and bust shimmered in the soft lighting and full moons light as if it were made of moonlight itself. It had crimson highlights and accents at the edges, and a subtle pattern of roses just a shade off both lighter and darker than the dress so that they seemed to vanish and appear as it moved. She had a simply veil over her muzzle and every mammal present could see the smile of pure joy on her face.

Mike looked up as the doors opened and lost all thought in his mind as he saw Lizz. He blinked heavily trying to reconcile the vision before him with the mammal he knew. She was so beautiful he felt as if his breath had been stolen, along with his heart all over again. To Mike, in that moment, Lizz had never been more beautiful. His grin un-suppressed.

When she reached the end of the isle, Nick gave Mike a nudge breaking him out of his shock and to step over and take her paw in his from his father. Arron gave Mike a nod and gave a short bow to Lizz before taking his seat. Mike looked up at Lizz. "You look amazing. I have no words."

Lizz's smile brightened. "You look amazing, too."

They turned and stepped up to their marks facing Harvey, each having been carefully escorted out separately so they knew were to stand. Mike lifting Lizz's veil and almost gasping at seeing her face. The makeup was light, but highlighted her eyes and features and took his breath away again.

Harvey glanced down at his notes then smiled up at the couple before him. Whispering to them so they turned to face him fully. "Remember to be loud enough so everyone can here you." Then taking a deep breath, he started.

"My fellow mammals. We are gathered here on this beautiful evening, and beneath the glow of a full moon at it's peak, to join these two mammals in the bonds and responsibility of marriage. As a non-denominational officiant, I have been asked to perform an invocation for each of the mammals standing before us. They ask that you bear witness to their union and share in their joy. Before we begin. I ask you all now. Should any of you have just cause that these two not be joined, rise and speak now, or forever, and in the sight of Luna and Gdon, hold thy peace."

After a long, nervous ten seconds, Harvey smiled and continued. "Then let us begin." Looking up and holding a hoof towards the moon. "Oh great Luna, bringer of light to the darkest night. Guide and protector of our lives, our family, our pack. You to whom the pack holds reverent honor for the many blessings bestowed upon your chosen people. On this night as you shine your light most silver and precious upon us. Let that light shine brightest and bless these two mammals who seek to cement their union as mates, as husband and wife, and in your sight, a family. A pack. Grant them the wisdom to overcome their differences, differences of species, differences as mammals, and the never ending love for each other to overcome all obstacles and tests placed before them. We ask that you welcome into your fold and your heavenly pack this wolf, Michael Arron Wolford, and this tigress, Elizabath Ann Fangmeyer, and their offspring yet unborn."

Pausing for a moment, Harvey continued. "Great Gdon. Heavenly protector and guide. You who is of many worlds and many forms. You who is of mixed heritage. We ask you to bring your blessings upon these mammals, this wolf, Michael Arron Wolford, and this tigress, Elizabath Ann Fangmeyer, and their offspring yet unborn. Bless them with your protection from those that would see them harmed for loving each other. Bless and protect their offspring yet unborn as they shall be, as you, born of more than one world. Unsheathe thy sword and heft they shield against those who would seek harm upon them. Guide them as they embark on this adventure together. As mates. As partners. As parents. Grant them wisdom and the strength to see through the challenges that lay before them."

Mike and Lizz both looked on at Harvey with big grins. Harvey returning a warm smile nodded to them both. "Marriage is a complex concept in our world. It has as many meanings as there are mammals that participate in it. There are marriages of convenience, ones formed of necessity, and those that fall apart soon after they are formed. Often those that fail are entered into rashly or in the heat of the moment. I have officiated many hundreds of weddings of every sort, and I can saw with confidence that the union of these two mammals falls into a category I have rarely had the pleasure of officiating.

That category is one where the love shared between the two that stand before me is unquestionable and strong. These two mammals love each other to a depth rarely seen, and while this wedding itself may have been brought together in a bare number of hours. It was done so in support of their love for each other. So let us all celebrate them. Let us celebrate their love, and the union of these two mammals."

Harvey glanced at his notes then back up to Mike and Lizz. " Michael Arron Wolford, do you take this female to be your lawfully wedded mate? As the mother of your pups. Your partner in life. Through sickness and health. Through hard times and good. Hardships and joys. Until death do you part?"

Mike grinned up at Lizz. "Elizabeth. I love you more than life itself. You complete me. Days without you are the hardest to bare and when we are back together, it feels like the first breath of air to a drowning mammal. Just being near you lifts up my heart and leaves me feeling almost weightless." Turning to Harvey. "I do."

Harvey smiled and turned to Lizz. "Elizabath Ann Fangmeyer, do you take this male to be your lawfully wedded mate? As the mother of his cubs. Your partner in life. Through sickness and health. Through hard times and good. Hardships and joys. Until death do you part?"

Looking down to Mike. "Michael. You bring light into my life at my darkest moments. Your voice is what I wake up in the morning to hear. You are my joy. My reason for living. That I can bring pup into this world with you is a dream come true. To be able to marry you and share our lives together, is a dream I had long given up on before we met." Turning to Harvey. "I do."

Harvey grinned. "Then by the power vested in me by the city of Zootopia. I pronounce you lawfully wedded mates. You may kiss." As they kissed the assembled mammals cheered. Lifting his voice as loud as he could. "I present to you mister and misses Wolford-Fangmeyer."

Lizz and Mike turned to the assembled who continued to cheer, and began to walk back down the isle as an instrumental version of Titanium began to play. Once the wedding party had exited, Victoria and Arron lead Madeline, Lizz's brothers, and then the rest of the assembled mammals to a reception in a ball room in another part of the house. With the assistance of several of the guests, including Zuber Frank, Fin was set back up in the ball room and playing music.

Once everyone had a drink, some food, and a table staked out. Lizz and Mike stepped out to the center of the open area. Seeing them, Fin stopped the song that had been playing and spoke into the mic. "Hey everyone. It's time for the first dance, so quiet down and turn your attention to the dance floor." With that, he hit play on the song he had confirmed with them earlier in the night. This first song being Christina Perri - A Thousand Years. Nick and Judy quickly joined them on the dance floor, followed by Victoria and Arron. Then the Ottertons', Ed and Elli, Mikel and Joan. Then Lizz's cousin Jason and his Maned Wolf, Angie. As the song came to an end, the floor was full, and yet Lizz and Mike still had the center of the dance floor all to themselves.

Fin fed the next song directly into the end of the first. John Legend - All Of Me, then Eric Clapton - Wonderful Tonight, followed by Etta James - At Last. Bruno Mars - Marry You, was followed by Righteous Brothers - Unchained Melody and then Journey - Faithfully. Finally closing out the romantic dance session with Lifehouse - You and Me and lastly Alexander Jean - Paper Planes.

As Paper Planes started, the floor cleared of everyone but Lizz and Mike as they were lost in each other, dancing slowly through a long kiss, and then clearly lost in each others eyes. After that Fin switched the music to non-slow dance love songs, which broken them out of their trance with each other. Nick then gave his best mammal toast, which was as much roast as toast, and brought up the energy in the room. Judy following suit and in a similar, if less biting vein as Nick.

The reception lasted until very early that morning with Zubers starting to be called to take guests home around 4am. Although many of the couples accepted the invitation of a room. How often does one get the opportunity to stay at the Wolford pack estate? A late brunch served for those that stayed before they headed out. By noon, only Lizz, Mike, Nick, and Judy were left. All sitting around the informal dining table with Arron and Victoria.

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A/N

Remember to share the love. Review and Fav. It is the life blood of every writer to know you are enjoying their work. I also want to thank everyone who has Fav'd, followed, and reviewed this little project. I know that isn't much, but to me, it's huge. Even as a writer of original fiction, that you enjoy this means a lot to me as an author. You can check out my original work and link to my Blog, Scribblings, where a lot of it lives by hopping over to ( Direct: dcballard (remove the spaces) because the forwarding is misbehaving.)

If you enjoy this, and you are not also reading my original Log Entries series over on my Blog. Why aren't you? (takes a Nick-esk pose of hurt) Also. I am now posting them on AO3, so you have even less excuse. It's free, ORIGINAL fiction. "An original story told through the log entries of the pilot and captain of an experimental star ship."

You should really be checking out my bestest bud, Bear678, and his story What Foxes May Come.

So keep those reviews and comments coming. And also remember, if you see issues, misspellings, etc... Let me know in PM, I'm under no illusion of being perfect and want to fix those things I miss.