Here is the 36th installment. Hope you enjoy.
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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."
Sadly, I do not own and thus can claim no rights to Zootopia or its characters. They belong to Disney.
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Girls day out. Bonnie, Judy, Lizz, Elli, Joan
Leaving Therus, Lizz pulled out her phone and summoned a Zuber. Pleased to find one was just a block away and they wouldn't need to wait.
Judy looked up and seeing this, had to comment. "Finally reached the, no driving point Lizz?"
Lizz nodded as she looked down to Judy. "Yeah. Driving home from the market yesterday and something set them off. I had to pull over and wait nearly an hour for them to calm down. Had to have Mike pick up the ice cream because it was flavored milk by the time I got home."
Judy shook her head. "That's rough. I told you the delivery services are not what they were a few years ago. Though I'm with you. It was like I had a kung fu movie going on the other day. With your stairs... Delivery is your savior, as well as with our jobs, really."
Lizz nodded. "Opened an account last night. A lot better selection than I expected. May stick with that, even after. Seems a lot more convenient, plus they had discounts for first responders, and being able to pick delivery times, even super late."
Bonnie laughed as the Zuber pulled up. "Oh, I remember it being like that. You get used to it after a few litters. That is, if you chose to have multiple. I know you are not going to have the room we do back at the burrow. Still, if they're that active, you should both be giving birth soon. Kinda jealous of the grocery delivery. Wish we had that out in the burrows."
Lizz nodded as she opened the door for the others, helping Judy in since it was a larger car driving by a large stallion. "That's all the doctor can tell us. Soon. Since neither of our pregnancies have anything they can compare them to."
Bonnie chuckled. "So, you're saying it is just as possible that it'll happen next month as it is that this poor driver having to take us to the hospital."
Judy laughed as she got settled in the large seat. "That's about the size of it mom. You should consider creating the delivery service. Could be a good post high-school job."
"An interesting thought. Need to get an agreement with the local stores, but I will look into it." Bonnie nodded to herself. "Worth at least looking into. Might even add a premium for Hopps produce, or just regular stuff from the store." Settling next to Judy as Joan and Elli hopped into the back seat.
"That's the spirit, mom."
The horse smiled as they all got settled. "Good morning ladies. This says you are heading to the mall. Any specific part?"
Elli grinned. "We're heading to Vivian's, but are doing a general girls day."
He nodded. "Ah, Fourth level. I'll take you to the closest door. You just window shopping?"
Lizz grinned. "Nope. Picking up a few pieces. If you have yourself a mare, you should get her a dress. They're the best in Zootopia. This one is something she did for me."
The driver glanced at Lizz in surprise. "Wait. I though she was a vixen? She makes larger mammal clothing?"
Judy spoke up from the back seat. "Oh yes. Vivian will do clothes for just about any mammal. She did a wedding dress for a rat last year. Got an award for it. She's doing the wedding dress for one of the elephants in Precinct One. Nick and I are covering the cost as our primary wedding gift."
The driver smiled. "No kidding. I will have to check that out."
Judy beamed. "She's got lots of pre-made stuff in all sizes, and does custom work too."
Bonnie smiled and gave Judy a hug. "Judy! That is so amazing of you to do."
Judy shook her head. "I had to. I overheard Francine crying one night after our shift. I had to talk to her and find out why she was so upset. She's such a great officer and works so hard, but cops really don't make that much. Her family won't help her either. So she wasn't going to be able to afford her dress. She was so upset. She'd been working double shifts to try and save up, and then had a pipe burst in her house."
Lizz sighed. "I remember that and how upset she was. Landlord wouldn't cover any of the damage until they threatened to sue. I didn't realize what the issue was. Oh Judy. You are too good for this world."
Bonnie frowned. "Why wouldn't her family help her?"
Lizz frowned. "It's one of the things Mike and I, as well as Judy and Nick are lucky about. Our families accept us."
Bonnie sighed, slightly embarrassed as her ears fell behind her. "We're trying at least. I think we're getting better."
"Dad is doing really well mom. Better than I could hope in such a short time. Nick told me last night about how he did at poker night. He sat and had at least a thirty minute conversation with a lion without freaking out."
The driver had a frown on his face. "That seems odd. I guess her family doesn't approve of her chosen mate. Is she an inter or something like that?"
Lizz shrugged. "I don't know. She talks glowingly about Sashida, but I've never asked what species she was, I just know that she makes Francine happier than I have ever seen her."
The driver's frown deepened. "Hold on. You're saying that this elephant is a lesbian and may be in an inter relationship? And you are okay with that?"
Judy frowned, her ears dropping in anger. "Yes. Sashida, as Lizz said, makes her happy. So why should we care as her friends and co-workers if she is male, female, or the same species?"
The driver scoffed. "I cannot believe the Judy Hopps is accepting of inters. Disgusting."
Elli glared at the driver hard enough he should have exploded. "Watch your tongue. I happen to be married to a Wolford wolf, as is she." pointing to Lizz.
He visibly cringed and pulled to the side of the road. "Well. In that case, you can all just get out here."
Bonnie gasped at the exchange and where they were. "But this is the side of the freeway!"
He glared back at her. "You're lucky I don't make you get out while the car is moving. Now. Get out! I will not have such perversion in my car. Disgusting. All of you! Get out!"
They got out, and stood there watching as he drove away with a very rude gesture. Hoof or not, the intent was clear. Bonnie looked at Lizz, Judy, Joan, and Elli. "My gods! I… I don't believe it" Stumbling as a truck went by and getting pulled farther from the road and up again the barrier by the others. They would have stood behind it, but it was a long drop to the ground beyond as they were on a raised section. "Judy. What are we going to do?"
Joan laughed. "Well, first off,, he'll never work for Zuber, Lifter, or any other ride app again. Lizz you get the video?"
Lizz nodded with a frown. "I can't believe I actually needed that app, but already uploaded and complaint filed with the video attached. Another driver will be here in a few minutes. Started recording right after he asked if she was an inter."
A few minutes after they were dumped by the Zuber, a ZPD cruiser pulled up. Eric getting out and seeing who it was shook his head with a deep frown, his ears spraying back and tail lashing. "Please tell me you have a plate for me?"
Judy showed him a picture which he had Hornworth put into the system and start a trace on. "Okay. We will stay here until your ride gets here, then I have a horse to arrest."
Elli smiled up at Eric and Hornworth. "Thank you, officers. What are you arresting him for?"
Lizz chuckled. "Oh, just a few charges come to mind. Including endangering the lives of us." Pointing at their group.
Judy chuckled as well. "Negligence. Use of the emergency lane for non-emergency purposes."
Lizz continued. "Reckless endangerment that could result in death. Considering how Bonnie almost got blown over by that truck that went past. We're lucky traffic isn't heavier." Her phone ringing. "Hello? ... Yes, this is Elizabeth Fangmeyer. ... Have you watched the video. ... Yes, Judy Hopps was with me, as well as two other friends and Judy's mother. ... I see. That's good to know. ... No, they haven't arrived yet, but a ZPD cruiser that has stopped to keep us safe until they arrive. ... I am actually a ZPD officer, but on maternity leave. ... Both Judy and I are nearing our terms. ... Yes, she is. ... I will let her know. ... One second." Lizz looks over to Judy. What's you're Zuber username?"
Judy grinned. "WildeHoppsCops"
Lizz laughed. "Only you would." Turning back to her phone. "Her username is WildeHoppsCops. ... Yes, Officer Nick WildeHopps is her mate and father of her kits, who was left standing on the side of the freeway by your driver. ... Former driver. I stand corrected. ... Thank you." Lizz looked back at the group. The new driver should be here in a few moments. They said his name is Frank. They wish to pass along their most sincerest apologies for this and have confirmed that that driver has had his rights revoked. Eric, they said that they will email me his information, which I will pass along to you. Apparently the app has a tracking function, and they are ready and willing to give you that information as soon as it is requested."
Eric nodded. "Dealt with a few of these before. Just not anyone I knew. Zuber and Lifter do not tolerate speciesist or anti-inter crap. It is actually in the terms of service when you sign up as a driver. Won't be the first time I've arrested a driver for this. Won't even be the fifth time."
Bonnie shook her head. "That's terrible."
Another car pulled up to a stop and a wolf Bonnie recognized got out. "Frank!"
The wolf looked down and frowned. "Bonnie?" He then saw the others. "Oh no! Ladies, please get in my car. Quickly. None of you should be standing on the side of the road." Giving them all a bow. "I cannot believe some mammals. To abandon you on the side of the road. Worse, the side of the freeway." Looking up to Eric. "Thank you officer. Please let me know if you need me to testify or anything that I did in fact pick them up here." Handing Eric a card.
Eric took the card with a smile. "Thank you, Frank. Please get them to their destination safely."
"If it is within my power."
They climbed into Frank's car and were soon back on their way. Once they were on the road safely, he glanced over everyone and grinned, noticing Judy and Lizz. "Oh wow! Bonnie, first I get to give you and your family a ride, now Judy too! I'm batting a thousand this week." Frank's smile growing wider as he glanced at Lizz. "And Lady Fangmeyer?" The pause as he processed who Lizz was, was pronounced. "Wait! You're Lady Fangmeyer‽"
Lizz groaned, while Elli and Joan chuckled. "I guess I am now that Mike and I are no longer keeping it a secret."
"It is a true honor to give all of you a ride. I hope you don't mind me saying, but I just get this feeling that you are going to make a fantastic alpha with Michael."
Elli laughed. "If I have anything to say about it she will. I got you covered Sis. Don't worry, between me and mom, we'll have you trained up quickly."
Frank glanced back and he eyes going wide. "Lady Elli Wolford‽ Oh wow. No way Mom is ever going to believe this. If I hadn't had the pictures they wouldn't have believed me about you, Bonnie. Now this? It has to be an omen."
Bonnie chuckled. "I don't know about that Frank, but I know we are all glad to have you as our replacement driver."
Elli leaned into Lizz's ear and whispered a few things causing Bonnie to furrow her brow and Judy to laugh. Lizz looked back at Elli. "Seriously?" Elli nodded and motioned for her to do as she suggested. Lizz shrugged. "Frank. Can I ask you your last name and pack affiliation?"
His eyes went wide and he struggled to control his grin. "Frank Erzats. I am from a secondary Wolford pack named Ether. We're relatively new members. Just my parents, me, my two brothers, and my sister. We joined last year after we moved to the city. We are honored that the pack accepted us, and are accepting of us, given that my brother took a leopard as a mate. Never looked outside of wolves myself, but if the arrow of love hits me, I'm not afraid to chase it to its source. No matter who it came from."
Lizz smiled. "Thank you Frank for sharing that. After that last driver..."
"I totally understand." Shortly thereafter, they pulled up to the entrance of the mall. Frank parking so he could help them exit safely. "Here you ladies are. Don't worry about the charge, the company has already covered it. I want to personally apologize for that previous driver." Handing cards out to all of them. "If you ever need a ride, this has my handle on it. If I'm close, I will come running for any of you."
They all got out and before Frank left, Elli gave Lizz a nudge and a nod towards Frank. "Frank."
"Yes Ma'am?"
"I wanted to thank you for the ride and let you know that I will be letting Mother Wolford know of your assistance to Elli and myself, as well as Judy, and her family. Bonnie spoke highly of you when you gave them a ride from the train station. You have honored us all with your service and support."
The grin on his face was all teeth, the excitement in his voice barely contained as his tail wagged like a fan. "Thank you Lady Fangmeyer. It was my honor and pleasure to serve you, Lady Elli, and your friends."
When he drove away, they heard a howl of pure joy before he pulled into traffic as his light turned green. Elli laughed. "I'm impressed, he managed to hold it in until he was stopped at the light, and just a short one too. For a young wolf, he has really good control."
Lizz looked at Elli. "I'm still not quite sure what I just did or why I need to mention him or the other wolves I've come across to... Mother Wolford?"
Elli laughed and led the way into the mall. "It's a wolf thing, Lizz. It is about respect and position in the pack. The fact is, you have a higher position than I do. You just have to listen to me for now, while I teach you what you need to know. So I get a temporary boost in status as your teacher. If I do a good job, it will boost Ed and my position in the pack overall."
"I'll do my best to learn, Elli."
"I know you will sis. Now, what first?"
They stood just inside the entrance way and Judy chuckled. "I could really go for a smoothie."
Lizz laughed. You are a bottomless pit, Judy. But I could go for one as well."
Joan chuckled. "Very well. This way!" Pointing into the mall like she was directing an army charge.
Joan led them to the same juice bar as before and they were soon walking around the mall, sipping smoothies and working their way towards Vivian's shop.
As they walked, strolling slowly, gawking into this store and that, chatting excitedly about various items, even entering a few stores. Each slowly acquiring a bag or three as they worked their way along. As they walked, they got many a-strange, curious, confused, or hateful glance. Bonnie leaned over to Judy. "Judy. Why is everyone looking at us?"
"Consider the group, mom. You have a fox, a water deer, two rabbits, one of which is very pregnant, and a very pregnant tigress. They are walking and chatting, and are clearly a group. Some mammals don't think we should be interacting so friendly, others see it as a good thing. You'll notice that most of the confused looks we are getting are from mammals with very good senses of smell."
"Okay, but why?"
Joan laughed. "Because the fox, deer, and tiger reek of wolves, the pregnant rabbit which most think they recognize but are not sure, reeks of fox, and the older rabbit of the group is the only one that smells of rabbit."
Realization dawning in Bonnie's eyes. "Oh! So they can smell your mates on you."
Elli nodded. "Exactly that, Bonnie. So they're not sure what to make of us as a group. Especially as there is no wolf in our group to pin the scent to and most can tell that the scent is attributed to at least three different wolves."
A family of otters walked up to the group as they were gawking and discussing a pair of shoes in the window. Trying to decide if the full foot cover was fashionable or weird. The mother otter speaking up. "Judy? Is that you?"
Judy's grin upon recognizing them simply glowed. "Mrs. Otterton! It is so nice to see you." Being pulled into a hug and then held at arm's length as she sniffed.
Mrs. Otterton grinned. "So it is true. You and that fox, Nicholas."
Judy nodded. "It is, and they are his."
Mrs. Otterton's grin got wider. "Oh wow. Judy, I'm so happy for you both. I've also told you to call me Mary. I see he even claimed you."
"Well, I claimed him first. I want to thank you and Emmitt, Mary. Teaching Nick about flowers and their meanings to rabbits. It really helped our relationship."
Emmitt stood back with their kits, a shy grin on his muzzle. "Was nothing at all Miss Hopps."
Grinning wider. "It's WildeHopps now, and please. Call me Judy."
Emmitt nodded with a smile. "Judy. It was the very least we could do after you saved me."
"I only did my job as a member of the ZPD. But I was happy to do it.. Let me introduce my friends here. This is my friend Elli, she's married to one of the younger Wolford alphas sons. Then this is Joan, she's actually Nick's cousin, and also married to a wolf. Behind me is Lizz Fangmeyer. She's mated to, and will soon be married to the eldest of the alphas sons. They've been mated for years, they just have to do the ceremony." Looking over her shoulder. "Lizz, if you can, try and get the Otterton's to do the flowers for your ceremony. They are the experts in Zootopia and beyond." Seeing Lizz nod she turned back. "Lastly, this is my mother. Bonnie Hopps. Mom, this is Emmitt and Mary Otterton. Emmitt was the case that led me to Nick, and then both of us to finding all the missing mammals and everything that happened from there."
Bonnie smiled warmly. "Well, Its a pleasure to meet you. I'm so very glad Judy was able to find you and get you the help you needed."
Emmitt nodded. "I don't know if they would have ever found a cure if it were not for Judy. I don't understand all of it, but what I do says that it wouldn't have just worn off. The Nighthowler bound itself in the brain is what the doctors said. The cure had to clean that up, and it wasn't perfect. I had to do some re-learning how to act and react to some things. Some of my reactions to things are still off, or feral as my shrink calls it."
Judy smiled and pulled him into a hug. "Emmett. That you are out here in public shows that you have done so and are doing really well. I know you all keep in touch. So please, keep heart. You're doing great and you look fantastic."
"Thank you, Judy."
Bonnie frowned. "Judy. Didn't you say that you and Nick got hit with Nighthowler, along with several officers?"
"We did." Seeing the Otterton's gasp. "We also had the advantage of training and support that a lot of the first victims just didn't get right away. They are getting it now though. Nick and I made sure of that. Cost a council member their job. We also had immediate access to the cure, so it didn't get a chance to bind like it did for them. We were lucky." Giving Emmitt and Mary another hug and saying hello to their kits. "Well, we are on a mission of pointless conversation and shopping. You all have a wonderful day. And Emmitt. Please say hello to Mr. Manchas for me. We haven't seen him in quite some time."
"Oh yes. He got himself a new job with the blessing of Mr. Big. I will be sure to let him know."
Judy hopped in place. "Oh! Before I forget. We will be moving soon and I would love to invite you to the house-warming party. If you are up for it."
Mary smiled. "We'd love to, but we're actually taking a three week vacation after the next group support meeting for Emmitt late next week. Something that we really need."
"Of course. Well, I hope it is a lot of fun and you feel the need to get back to work to get a vacation from your vacation. That's how you know it was a good one."
They all waved goodbye to the family and continued on. Bonnie with a huge smile on her face. "Judy. I think I'm starting to get it. You really make a huge difference in people's lives. I think I see it. Like with Frank. How even though you didn't touch him directly, you affected his life."
Judy nodded. "That's what I've been trying to express to you mom. It's why Nick and I accept what we have to go through, and the hate we sometimes encounter. Because when someone like that happens to us, there are usually others around to see it that are like you and dad. Right on the edge, and seeing it suddenly brings it into focus. Something, that without which, you might fall to the wrong side of things."
A large voice gave a scoffing laugh. "Ha! Wrong side of things? You mean like you? Disgusting inter's like you shouldn't be allowed to just wander around in public. Look at you. Stinking of your perversion. You reek worse than a skunk." A group of mammals stepped out to block their path. "We're not going to let you get away with this any more." There were two leopards, three larger deer, a zebra, a jack rabbit, and a couple wood chucks.
Judy pushed her mom behind her. "You don't want to do this."
Lizz nodded. "She's right. You do not want to do this."
The speaker, one of the woodchucks, laughed. "Or what? You're off duty. there's nothing you can do."
Judy grinned. "That's where you are wrong." Flipping her badge out of her purse as did Lizz. "We are both authorized to carry. So you will have a seat and await officers to pick you up. You really don't want to add assault charges, against pregnant officers, to the list of charges you already have racked up."
"We've done nothing yet, rabbit. But we will and no one is going to do anything about it."
Three tigers, a rhino, and a half dozen foxes, as well as at least a dozen rabbits lined up behind them. One of the Tigers talking. "I'll suggest you might want to rethink that."
Two dozen wolves lined up behind Lizz, along with three wolves that were fully black. One of the black wolves speaking. "As the tiger suggests. You might want to re-think that. We are Nightwolf. These are Wolford pack." Indicating the dozens of wolves behind him. "You threaten the Designate's mate, the seconds mate, and their mutual first."
The woodchuck took a step back. "What?"
The black wolf grinned and pointed to Lizz. "She is the designate's mate, the eldest son and next in line as Alpha." Pointing to Elli. "She is the second mate." Pointing to Judy. "She is their mutual, named first, and that is her mother." The three black wolves step in front of the group. "You are not supported by the majority, no matter how loud your kind may scream. Nightwolf pact stands with Wolford, and Wolford pack stands with the chosen mate and first of the designate and second."
Elli prodded Lizz to stand straight and whispered to her as she sat on Lizz's bent arm. Lizz nodded a few times and smiled. "Thank you, Nightwolf. You honor the pact by revealing yourself." Turning to look behind her. "Thank you Wolford pack for your support. You honor Michael and myself by stepping forward." Turning back to the group threatening them and looking beyond, recognizing one of her distant cousins. "Thank you family. May your territories be peaceful and bountiful." Elli grinned as she whispered more in Lizz's ear.
Judy chuckled and nodded to the wolves and tigers, then looked to the foxes. "Thank you. May your Skulks be prosperous and you're kits healthy. Your support honors all of us." Shifting her attention to the rabbits. "Thank you. May your warrens prosper, you're kits healthy, and you're harvests bountiful." Turning back to the would be attackers. "On your knees. Paws behind your head, and cross your ankles. Don't make me pull my weapon. I'd rather not have to do the paperwork."
The group with the tigers splitting as several ZPD officers stepped up with frowns. The lead officer, McHorn, shook his head. "WildeHopps, Fangmeyer... What have you two gotten into this time."
Judy stepped forward with a bright smile. "Nothing much, Jason. Just this group threatening us due to who our mates are and them finding out that they really do not have the support of the rest of the people in the mall."
McHorn tried to hold in a grin and leaned down. "For your information. Both of those officers, despite being on leave, are armed and fully authorized to shoot you. Not only that, because they're pregnant, they could justify the use of lethal force as any attack against them would be an attack against their kits too."
The leopards turned on the deer. "You said we would have support, that we could deal with any inter scum we found and not get caught! Where are the weapons you promised?"
"We are supposed to! My contact promised that he'd show up with weapons for us! Hours ago. Last text said he was parking due to traffic and would be here any second."
Duke Weasleton walked through the crowd. "Yeah... About that. I have no love for officer Floppsy or Red, but I also don't have issues with them being together. Or anyone for that matter. I'm a live and let live kinda mammal. If some mammals are in love, who am I to interfere, question, or judge?" Looking up at Judy. "Hey Flopsy." Holding out a bag. "Here's what they asked me to get them, mostly squirt guns filled with Nighthowler, as well as a few lethals with filed numbers. I filled them with grape juice, because these idiots wouldn't have known then difference, and the lethal are clean and unfiled inside the slide cause they wouldn't know to check. Registered to their real names too. When I saw you was pregnant, there was no way I was going to give them anything, nor once I knew why they wanted this stuff. There's also a recording on a thumb drive in the outer pocket of them making demands and threats. Audio and video."
Judy took the bag and handed it to one of the other officers. "Thank you Duke. They will want to get your statement. Smart to record them, too."
"You and Red learned me that. I'm trying to be reputable, or at least as much as I can as a procurer of things. Like you and Red said. It's a matter of principle, and self protection. I even got a license to acquire and register the weapons."
"That's great, Duke." Judy grinned over at the would be attackers now sitting paw-cuffed and glaring at each other. Figuring to rub it in, she let her accent slip. "Oh dear. Y'all can't even get ol' Duke to help y'all out? Bless your hearts. Instead he comes and hands off not just what y'all bought from him, but a recording of ya doing it and what it was y'all wanted. With ya making threats to get him to violate the terms o' his license. Tisk. Task." Her voice getting hard. "Well... I do think these nice officers will have some nice, cold, concrete cells for y'all to sit in and think about what ya done."
McHorn looked down at Judy and blinked. "What the?"
Judy looked up bashfully. "Too much accent?"
"I didn't even know you had one."
Lizz, trying to hide her snickering, gave up and laughed. "Oh my gods. Judy! Now I know for a fact your fox just loves it when you talk with your accent."
Judy frowned. "Dumb fox! Yeah, he kinda loves it."
Joan leaned over and nudged Judy. "Does he now? You've never mentioned that before."
Judy glared back at Joan. "Because it is embarrassing. That was me putting on a show, and it failed, clearly. I just can't let it slip and have it sound natural unless I'm tired. I've spent so many years covering it up, that it just sounds forced. Like that just now."
After a few minutes speaking with the officers who arrived and the various groups that stood to protect them. Thanking them, taking some selfies, etc… The foxes all wanting pics with Judy, as well as the rabbits. The wolves, tigers, and others, wanting pics with Lizz, Elli, and Judy. Once the would be attackers we're walked off. The various mammals went on their ways.
One of the tigers, who was the cousin Lizz recognized, stepped up with a smile. "Hello Elizabeth."
"Jason. Thank you again for standing for us. Just the threat was enough to help."
"I was glad to. While the majority of the extended family wants to put on airs that they do not approve of inters, they seem to think that's the position that helps the company best. It doesn't and they're gonna regret it and have to play PR catch up. But that's not me. I can see how happy you are, and to me, that is more important."
"Thank you, Jason. It means a lot. Let me introduce you. This is Joan who is mated to a wolf, Elli who is mated to my mates younger brother. Then Judy WildeHopps and her mother, Bonnie Hopps."
Jason kneeled down to Judy and Bonnie, and offered a paw. "It is my honor to meet you."
Judy shook his paw with a smile. "Thank you Jason. Your support is a welcome breath of fresh air." Motioning him to lean down farther, she whispered in his ear. "They are in fact Nicks, and Lizz's are her mates, Mike Wolford, eldest son of the Wolford Alphas."
Jason pulled back in surprise and seeing Judy's mischievous smile and nod, stood up and looked at his cousin. "Is it true? They're actually his?"
Lizz smiled brightly. "They are, and healthy as far as the doctors can tell. Same with Judy's."
Jason blinked and then grinned. "That's... That's amazing! How? Some kind of special procedure?"
Lizz shook her head. No. Just a lot of trying and luck. The doctor said it was long odds, but fully possible, and now that we've done it once."
"Really. Oh wow." Jason furrowed his brown and then sighed. "We only meet here because there are so many mammals, no one notices us." Looking off to the side. "Angie. Come here. I want you to meet someone. The cousin I told you about. "
A maned wolf stepped over. "Jason. We're not supposed to be open. Your rule because of your family."
He smiled at her. "Yes, but this is a special case. This is my cousin, Elizabeth Fangmeye. She is mated to a wolf, and her cubs are actually his. This here is the very real Judy WildeHopps, and hers are her mates as well."
Angie looked them over in shock. "Really? How much must that have cost?"
Judy laughed. "Everyone assumes that, but we're both this way the normal way, the odds were just a lot longer. According to our doc, we both probably got there many times, but they just weren't viable, then..."
Angie absolutely glowed. "Then one or more viable ones stuck. Oh, I am so happy for you. I'm sure the idea terrifies Jason, but it gives me hope once we get there."
Jason chuckled. "While not ready now, you might be surprised on that Ang." Giving a smirk. "I've wondered what they'd look like."
Angie looked at Jason in shock. "Really? Oh, Jason!" Fanning her face trying not to cry.
"Thinking an extra tall maned wolf with stripes, a long tail, or short tiger with a mane."
Judy reached into her purse and handed them both a card. "Well, know that while there are not many of us. Inter-species couples that are open, there are plenty more that are not. Zootopia is a big city after all. There is support. Discrete get togethers with other couples, and help if you need it. Also note the number for the MMSF. There really are no restrictions with the MMSF, all cases are reviewed for merit. That is if you need such assistance."
Elli nodded and put an arm around Judy. "We all hope the best for you both, and luck in your relationship. One thing I think all of us, even Bonnie, will confirm for you; you absolutely have to talk and communicate. Your cultures, reactions to things, who is supposed to lead things in the relationship, may be very different. You need to talk these things out, what you expect from each other. What you do and do not like."
Judy laughed. "So very true. This is a lesson that we, Nick and I, learned the hard way. I was so angry with Nick that he hadn't proposed. I knew he had the ring, but what I never realized was that I was in charge of when things happened, or when we took each major step."
Joan chuckled. "Oh, Judy. He was only waiting for you to make it clear that is what you wanted."
Judy nodded with another laugh. "Oh, I know that now. As soon as I yelled at him about it, he was quiet for a second, a dozen emotions crossed his muzzle, and then grinned so happily I was confused. He then told me he needed a week to plan it, if that was okay with me. I demanded to know what the hell he was talking about."
Joan gave up and laughed. "Oh gods. I wish I had known you back then. I could have helped you so much."
"Water under the bridge, but it's why I always push communication whenever talking to a new couple. Seen more than a few who lost what could have been a fulfilling relationship over cultural misunderstanding issues that a few conversations could have cured."
Lizz handed a card to Angie. "If you ever need to ask a question about Tigers, give me a call."
Jason frowned. "No cub stories, Lizzy."
Lizz frowned, then grinned evilly. "Don't call me Lizzy, or I'll send her pictures. I'm thinking summer, age six."
Jason's ears disappeared and his tail poofed and froze. His voice low and scared. "You wouldn't…"
Lizz's grin going full diabolic. "Oh, but I would."
Jason put up his paws in surrender.. "Truce. I'll behave."
Angie was smiling and let out a barked laugh. "Oh, now I know I will be giving you a call. Blackmail material is always useful. As for communicating, we do. It is about all we do. We talk a lot, since that is all we can really do until he finishes his degree." Glancing at her phone. "It was really nice to meet all of you, and Lizz I will give you a call. That I promise. Understanding the female tiger part of a relationship might be helpful in understanding this lug. We however have lunch reservations at Therus."
The group looked at each other, Judy cocking her head to the side, one ear at half mast. "Reservations... At Therus?"
"Yeah. It is this really awesome restaurant we heard about. Amazing food from this little fennec fox. They are also welcoming of inter-species couples."
Chuckling, Judy shook her head. "Well, I was going to suggest it as a safe date location. The inter community considers it a safe location as the staff is all inter friendly or inters themselves. I recommend the spicy shrimp and chicken burrito with the works and extra cheese. Though just about everything on the menu is fantastic."
Lizz shook her head at the confused looks on Jason and Angie's face. "Don't ask or try and figure it out. It'll just make it worse and give you a headache. Just accept the statement, and I can assure you that, while she has an obsession with those damn burritos, they are very good."
With some chuckles and hugs, Jason and Angie went on their way and the group moved on towards their destination. A few minutes of wandering brought them to the jewelry store next to Vivian's. Drawn in there by Lizz, they started looking over the various selections. Lizz gravitating to the wedding sets and wondering out loud what Mike was going to get them. Bonnie looked at a brilliant blue pendant, a frown slowly overtaking her as she grabbed Judy, pointing to the pendant. "Judy... What does this stone look like to you?"
Judy walked over and frowned as well. "It can't be." Quickly taking out her phone and taking a photo of several pieces. She sent them to one of her brothers who was responsible for trying to track down lost Hopps sapphires."
The store attendant, a twenty something white table deer doe wandered over. "Hello ladies. Can I help you by showing you anything?"
Judy smiled up at the attendant. "Sure. Can I have a look at these beautiful sapphire pieces?"
"Any one in particular?"
"That amazing pendant, if I can. It is such a unique, deep blue."
With a warm smile, she pulled set of keys from her pocket and opened the back, pulling out a felt mat and set the pendant on it. "It is. He manager got them in recently. Here you go." Setting the pendant out on a felt pad.
Judy's phone rang and she put up a finger. "Just one second. That's my brother." Answering. "Judy. ... Okay, the pendant? ... ... Okay, got it. Call mom, she's with me and I need my phone. ... Got it." Judy hung up and Bonnie's pone rang almost immediately. The deer looking at them in sudden concern.
Judy flipped her phone to camera and pulled a removable lens set out of her purse, attaching it to her phone. Picking up the pendant she held it up to the sunlight and nodded, recognizing the special way light passed through a real Hopps sapphire. Flipping it over, she zoomed in on the back of the stone near the setting.
Bonnie listened to her phone for a moment. "He said there should be a chipped corner right where the mounting is."
Judy nodded as she zoomed in and shook her head. "Confirmed. Initials A and H scratched into the chip."
Bonnie listened and nodded. "Rob confirms. It's authentic. We need to check the other pieces. They may have been rest."
The deer was looking between them with fear in her eyes. "I'm sorry, miss. What is this about?"
Judy looked up. "Very simple. This stone is a Hopps sapphire, one that was stolen almost a century ago. 84 years ago, August, to be exact."
"Wha... What?" Turning she rushed over and banged on the managers door. "Sir!"
The door opens and an older Kudu steps out. "What is it, Rachel?"
"Sir. Those rabbits. They are saying that those new sapphire pieces you acquired, at least the pendant, is stolen."
Frowning he walked over seeing Lizz reaching over and pulling out several more pieces for Judy to review. "Ladies I think I am going to have to ask you to leave immediately or I will be forced to call the ZPD."
Judy and Lizz laughed and flipped their badges out of their purses. Lizz reaching in and pulling out the last piece. "We're already here." Bonnie leaning over, phone to her ear. "Judy, how many of those pieces can you confirm?"
Judy chuckled, recognizing her former neighbor. "Hi Pronk. Three so far, mom. The pendant, one of the rings and the broach. I have three piles. Confirmed non-Hopps stones, real, and possibles." Setting another ring in the real group. "Make that two rings. I need to check these last two and then I can go back to the maybe pile."
The maybe pile held two rings and a smaller pendant, the non-Hopps held six rings, three bracelets, and a broach. The Kudo frowned even deeper. "Judy. You need to stop this."
"Pronk, take a deep breath These were stolen almost a century ago, or more. I'm simply confirming which ones are legitimate, and then my family will pay you your costs for them."
Shaking his head, Pronk frowned. "Judy. What are you talking about?"
Looking over one of the maybe's with her phone and lens setup, she found what she was looking for barely visible in the shadow of one of the prongs. "And that's another legit one. Mom, ask Rob how many other stones are on the missing list."
Bonnie picked up her phone. "You get that Rob? ... Two rings? Okay."
Judy looked at the next ring. "It's possible that the small pendant is remounted." She held it up to the light and grinned. "That's another one." Looking at the pendant. "If that is the ring remounted, than that will be almost all of the lost pieces that we don't know the location of. Pronk, you have no idea how important this is to my family."
Looking carefully over each facet of the pendant, Judy zoomed in more. "It has the right light refraction for a Hopps sapphire. Just none of the..." She cocked her head. "It couldn't be. Mom, give me Rob on speaker."
Bonnie set her phone next to Judy, Rob's voice coming from it. "What's up Jude? What are you thinking?"
Judy frowned as she stared at a mark on the side of the pendant. "Rob. How many total sapphires are missing and not accounted for in private collections such as the crown Jewels, now that we've ID'd those in this set?"
"Two, and they are very old and assumed to be in the crypt."
"Rob... There is another one and we both know it, now tell me about it."
"It is a smaller piece. Three karats. It was supposedly owned by a fox if the records are to be believed. Now that we have more information from Nick and Pop-pop, it belonged to one of those that were chased off because of the rift. She was mated to one of the warriors who left with them. His protest against what was happening is actually in the record and he refused to leave their stone behind. At the time there was only one stone given. The Wilde's records say that they lost the stone during a raid when their caravan was attacked."
"Anything special about it?"
"Four marks, like a foxes claws in miniature on one of the facets, in the corner."
Judy giggled. "I see. Well, it isn't lost any more. I have it in my paw." Looking up at Pronk, Judy smiled. "Pronk, how much is this one?"
He shook his head. "Let me see it." Taking out his own monocle, he looked at the stone and gasped upon seeing the miniature claw marks. "My gods! This is amazing. Judy, these are all really your family heirlooms?"
"Sort of. This one." Pointing at the smaller pendant. "Is actually proof that the Wilde and Hopps clans once had a pact that had them actually sharing the burrow and is proof also that they intermarried."
Pronk looked at her in complete shock. "No way!"
"Pretty much confirmed. That said, these have been gone for so long, we cannot actually call them stolen, even if that is what they were. So, we have to buy them back. How much for this pendant itself. Rob will get your information and then come pick up the rest with a check for however much is needed."
Looking them over, he quickly did the calculations. "For the rest of the genuine items, it'll cost almost one hundred thousand total. Judy, these pieces are some of the most amazing sapphires I have ever seen. The pendant you are holding is three thousand."
Judy pulled her wallet out of her purse and handed Pronk a credit card. "Worth it and then some. Please give me a silver chain sized for a red fox vixen."
Pronk took the card and shook his head. "Rachel, put the rest of the genuine items, that pile, in the safe and get the contact information for Rob, or give him mine. Those pieces." Pointing to the rejects. "Set them aside and have them re-evaluated. I don't want anything out for sale that might have been stolen, even if it was a century ago. We don't sell such pieces."
Rachel nodded, still clearly not sure what just happened. "Yes sir."
Judy smiled up at Pronk. "I'm not saying they aren't genuine sapphires, they just aren't Hopps sapphires."
"Still, they need to be re-evaluated. I got them from an estate auction, so now I need to do a deeper examination and confirm that they are not something, like those you identified, that found its way into a private collection instead of the legit owners." With a nod, Pronk headed over to the back to process Judy's card. A few moments later, Pronk came back with a receipt for Judy's purchase. Placing it in a box with the silver chain sized for a red fox, per Judy's request. "You're sure, Judy? It's a pendant for a female."
"I'm not giving it to Nick. I'm giving it to Vivian. It belongs in their family." Looking down at her belly. "And if maybe we have a daughter in here, she'll give it to her when the time is right."
Bonnie looked at Judy in shock. "Judy! Since when do you have three grand to just throw around?"
"Pronk gave me a discount, only charged me what I assume his shop paid, $2500. You didn't have to do that Pronk."
Bonnie frowned. "Not that big a difference."
Pronk smiled. "With the history you say that piece has, and who you are giving it to, I'd just give it to you if I could. Bucky is going to have a fit when he hears about this."
"We should have lunch." Judy pulled a card from her purse and handed it to him. "Give me a call, and if Rob doesn't call you in a day or so, call me and I will make sure things get taken care of."
Rob from the phone. "I'm still here, and I'm already packing. I'll be there in a few hours."
Pronk smiled and spoke towards the phone. "We're open until seven tonight."
Judy smiled. "Well, if you can close early after Rob gets things taken care of, we do have a family dinner set up at Therus. If you can, why don't you and Bucky swing by."
"Isn't that a predator place?"
Lizz laughed. "Not any more. The fennec that is the cook has expanded the menu now that more cops are showing up. Even before then he had a decent salad selection. Not that you need that with Judy's family."
Judy glared up at Lizz. "Oh, hush you!"
"Whatever you say, omnivorous bunny." Looking up at Pronk. "You should come, just to watch the meat eating rabbit."
Pronk chuckled. "I'll call Bucky, see what he's doing and if we can, we'll be there."
They said a few more goodbye's, Bonnie hung up the phone and they left the shop and walked around the wall into Vivian's.
The older fox looked up and grinned. "Judy! Lizz! Girls! So nice to see you again so soon." Then noticing Bonnie and her grin got bigger. "Bonnie? Oh my! I am so very glad you came out with them. They have been treating you well I hope?"
Bonnie nodded. "They have. Though I didn't realize you had your own shop when we were talking the other night. Or I don't remember after everything got weird."
Vivian's grin deflated to an embarrassed smile. "I don't broadcast it a lot. Most of my business is word of mouth."
Judy laughed. "That, and you get enough from the work you do for Maria to not have to worry as much."
"That's your fault, by the way." Vivian crossed her arms and tried to glare at Judy, managing to last all of two seconds before her grin opened wide. "If anyone knew I did all her outfits, I'd have to hire security for this shop. Probably have to move to some high end place in one of the towers."
Judy nodded. "True." Then looking down. "Think we can retire to the private room for a moment?"
Vivian shrugged. "Sure. Let me get Sam so the shop isn't unattended. You know where it is."
Judy led the group back into the same back fitting room as before and took a seat. Vivian arriving a few minutes later. She looked over the group and frowned. "What is it? Did one of my dresses give out on you?"
Judy smiled. "No, Viv. It's just that my mom, the girls and I, found something next door in Pronk's store. Something thought lost for a very long time."
"You mean those sapphires, right? I remembered you talking about the amazing deep blue of a Hopps sapphire. I told him he needed to call you when I saw them, but he was busy arguing with Bucky, so I don't think he heard me."
"Yeah. Well. A good portion of those stones were lost Hopps sapphires. One of them however is a lot older than the others. The rest were stolen about a century ago. The one however… It was lost much farther back in time. It has been reset, but the markings are unmistakable and there are only two sets of records in the world that would allow it to be verified. The Hopps records from when it was originally cut and set in a wedding torque..."
Vivian blinked at her. "And?"
"The Wilde records of the vixen who received it from her mate. One of the warrior bucks of the burrow from before the split. He left with the Wilde's. It was lost during a raid as they traveled trying to find a new home. Taken probably because it was set in an intricate torque."
Vivian took a step back as Judy slipped off the couch and stepped towards her, Bonnie's hand on Judy's shoulder. Vivian put her paws up to stop the bunnies, seeing the box Judy was holding. "No. Judy, no."
"It belongs to the Wilde family. Their wedding was celebrated at the time as a deeper union between the families. We've been hard at work putting things together. I spend an hour or two a night working with my siblings."
Judy held out the box and opened it as Vivian could not hold in the tears. "Judy. I can't. I wasn't born a Wilde."
Bonnie spoke up. "That doesn't really matter. You married and bore kits for the family. You still use the name. Therefore the stone is yours. Please wear it with pride knowing you are as much family as any of my own kits. You are my sister by marriage. You can pass it down to your own kits, or as Judy's are a true testament to the merger and reunification of our families, to one of them when they are old enough. Now don't fight us on this. Judy has my full backing on this as the Matron of Clan Hopps. We'll get you the paperwork and such soon enough. Now I'd be honored if you would put it on."
Vivian wiped tears and kneeled down, bowing her head so Judy could get the chain around her neck. Giving her a hug at the same time. "Okay. I don't know what to say." Standing again and the others gasped as it seemed to glow in the lights. "Oh wow!" Seeing it in the mirror.
The grin on Judy and Bonnie's was ear to ear and Judy spoke. "Well, that just proves the decision right. We have a belief about these stones for a reason, Viv. They just do not shine like that unless worn by the mammal that should be wearing it. We don't really understand how it works, but it does."
"It is just so beautiful!" Vivian said, looking at the brilliant stone shining against her fur in the mirror.
"It is what I would call a Wilde family heirloom."
"It is." Vivian wiped more tears and smiled. "Now, what are you ladies here for today? Other than making me cry."
Judy grinned as she sat down. "Well, Lizz still has some things to pick up from you. Then, I was hoping you might see your way to doing a few things for my mom."
A small voice screeched from the far side of the room and a shrew sprinted across the floor. "JUDY!"
Judy grinned widely. "Fru! I didn't know you were going to be here today."
Crawling up on the arm of the couch Judy was sitting on. "I had some new designs that came to me and I just had to discuss them with Vivian. Plus, it was a good opportunity to come out with my new guard."
"You mean Franchesca has graduated?"
FruFru nodded. "She has!" Turning back to the way she came. Fran, come in here. Nothing to be afraid of."
A large female polar bear walked in, wearing the usual suit. Giving a slight bow to Judy. "Hello Mrs. WildeHopps. It is good to see you again."
"Please, call me Judy. At least in an informal occasion like this."
Vivian frowned as she looked at the bear. "Huh... You. Up on the dias."
Fran looked at Vivian, confused. "Ma'am?"
Vivian turned to FruFru. "Clearly, your current tailor isn't familiar with cutting things for females. I'm going to have to completely redo that suit. I'm assuming she's armed as well?"
FruFru nodded. "Of course. She is my body guard now. You think you can do better?" Vivian glanced at FruFru with a raised eyebrow. "Never mind, of course you can."
Vivian looked up at the bear. "Strip!" Then turned to Bonnie. This will only take a few, and then you're next."
Bonnie nodded with a smile. "No worries at all Vivian. Take your time."
Fran looked at FruFru. "Ma'am?"
Fru smiled with a nod. "Best do as she says or she'll cut that suit off you and we'll have to wait until she is done with the replacement."
Fran sighed. "Yes ma'am." She then began to disrobe and Vivian started taking notes of the weapons and such she was wearing. The bullet proof vest under the shirt, and other things. Finally down to her panties, Fran looked around slightly embarrassed.
Vivian nodded. "Good. You won't have to worry about that uncomfortable holster with your new suits, and you'll have embedded sheaths for the knives and other items. I'm going to send you over to Clives and Joehan as well. They'll get you hooked up with some proper undergarments that will fit your job, as well as some things for more casual and formal occasions."
Lizz looked at the collection of weapons in surprise while Judy laughed. "Good grief. I had no idea." Looking at Judy. "What? Are you armed like that?"
Nodding, Judy lifted her skirt. "Very much so."
Lizz shook her head. "You aren't going to expect me to walk around like that, are you?"
"Once your training moves far enough. Yes."
Lizz felt the fur on the back of her neck stand up as a shiver of fear ran through her. "Dear gods, what have I gotten myself into."
Judy smiled. "Nothing you can't handle. It'll be interesting for me too, teaching someone so much larger than me. It's as much a test for me as it is you learning. It'll be good for both of us too, as it'll help us quickly get back in shape."
Lizz groaned. "Why do I take no comfort in that?"
"Because we're going to be dealing with newborns and training. At least we'll be living next to each other, and have lots of help we can lean on."
"Not helping, Judy."
Vivian finished up measuring Fran. "Okay. It'll take me about two weeks to get you a set done. They'll be machine washable and as long as you treat them right, won't need ironing. Since I have new material for Judy and Nick, I'll be using the old material I had for them as well. At the thickness and size, it'll stop most rounds and be stab, tear, and slash resistant. You'll also be able to move properly without shredding the suit."
Fran looked down as she got dressed. "How much will this cost?"
FruFru laughed. "Nothing for you to worry about Fran. I'll be covering the cost as it will improve your ability to act as my bodyguard."
Judy spoke up. "Viv. Do you think you could hook Fran and Lizz up with a few purses like mine? Maybe a few dresses for them both from that cloth too, that way when she's escorting Fru to a ball or something, she looks the part, and give Lizz some protection when under cover.?"
Vivian grinned. "I think that is a great idea. Fru?"
FruFru bounced in place on the arm of the couch next to Judy. "Oh, Vivian! That would be amazing! I'll send you some designs."
Vivian smiled. "Excellent. Make sure you consider her need for movement, and protection while looking sexy and fashionable."
FruFru Grinned. "Oh! A challenge. Something Judy and Lizz can use too." Looking up at the tiger. "I know who you are, and if you're going to be the next alpha of the Wolford pack, you should have clothes to match."
"Thank you." Lizz looked to Judy and Elli, both of them giving her smiling nods.
Vivian motioned Bonnie up to the dias. "Strip."
Bonnie looked up at her. "Seriously?"
"Yes, seriously. Why do you think my clothes wear the way they do?"
Bonnie rolled her eyes and began to disrobe. "Whatever."
Judy laughed. "This is why this room exists mom. Privacy while Viv works. You will not be sorry."
Fru Fru suddenly gasps. "VIVIAN! What is that? When did you get that?"
Turning to Fru, Vivian frowns. "Huh?"
Fru Fru vibrates and points. "Judy, don't you see it! It's so beautiful against her fur. The pendant! I've never seen a stone like that. Vivian! Where did you get it? I must have one!"
Judy started with a smile that morphed into a sad frown. "That is a Hopps sapphire, and you'd have to join the family through marriage. They are not for sale. Under any circumstances."
Fru Fru frowned. "A Hopps sapphire? I've never heard of such a thing."
Bonnie held out her ring for Fru Fru to see. An eternity band of Hopps sapphires with a single 1.5 carat diamond at the center. "You wouldn't because they are only mined in one place in the world, are only allowed as gifts between Hopps rabbits and their chosen mates, and even then, they have to earn them. Or, in the case of Vivian, have a piece that was stolen centuries ago returned to the rightful owner."
Fru Fru stopped vibrating and went dead still before turning to Bonnie. "Who are you?"
Judy smiled again. "Oh no! I'm so sorry Fru. How rude of me. These are some of my friends. Lizz you know, mated to Mike, the eldest of the Wolford alpha sons. Then Elli, married to one of Mike's younger brothers. Joan is Nick's cousin and is married to Mikel, a distant cousin of Mike's. Finally, my mother. Bonnie Hopps."
The look that overtook FruFru's face was one of pure joy as she squealed. "Your mother! Oh my gods! It is such a pleasure to meet you! Judy! How could you not tell me that your mother was almost your twin. You are so beautiful Mrs. Hopps. I see Vivian is taking your measurements, and she'll skin me if I keep you too long. Thank you for showing me the ring. It's amazing."
Bonnie giggled. "Thank you. You know just how to flatter an old doe. Please, call me Bonnie." Returning to the dias and the waiting Vivian.
Fru turned to Judy. "Judy. A Hopps sapphire? How does Vivian have one and you don't then?"
Judy nodded thoughtfully. "Well, that is two different stories. As for Vivian's, that stone dates back more than a thousand years." Facing Fru Fru. "Fruticia, I need you to understand that what I am about to tell you has been verified, but this history has not yet been announced and will not be for some time. The family historians are making sure all our ducks are lined up, t's dotted, and I's crossed." Looking over her at Joan, Lizz, and Elli. "This applies to you three as well. You have heard parts of it, but I'm going to give you more of it now. However, you have to promise me that you will not speak of it until I let you know you can." Turning her attention back to FruFru. "That means no gossiping about it or hinting about it."
Joan and Elli nodded and Lizz crossed her heart. FruFru looks up at Judy with a scowl. "It's really that big a deal Judy?"
"It is."
Sitting down and crossing her arms, Fru glares at Judy before smiling. "Of course I'll keep your secrets."
Judy grinned. "Great. So..."
"A button on a shirt!" Yells Vivian, causing them to look at her a moment before they all laughed.
Judy groaned through her laugh. "Gods. He couldn't deny being your son, or you his mother, if you wanted to!"
Fru Fru nodded. "Ain't that the truth! Go on Judy."
Taking a deep breath, Judy leaned back. "More than a thousand years ago, we're not sure how far yet. The family historians are still working on pinning things down, and I doubt we will know with any more precision than a handful of years. However, all the way back then. This was long before Zootopia existed or was even thought of, before the major wars. Back when Rabbits had to defend themselves against raids by larger predators that sought to use them as food just as they had before the species gained sentience and started to evolve. At the time, a fox came to live with the Hopps clan of rabbits. No, we don't know the full circumstances of how that happened. But over the course of years, more foxes joined, many were family of that first fox. Their eyes being one of their very distinctive traits. A brilliant emerald green that seems to glow, or a sapphire blue that rivaled the most brilliant sapphire.
These foxes were of a family known as Wilde." Fru gasped, while Elli, Joan, and Lizz stared in disbelief. "You heard me right. They lived with the Hopps in the same burrows and it is why we even now build our burrows so much larger and able to accommodate larger species without too much trouble. The two families, Hopps and Wilde, actually Hopp and Wilde, the s got added by a clerical error a few centuries ago.
Anyway. They lived together, the foxes providing their strength and cunning to the defense of the burrow. This was beneficial to both as foxes were looked at as just sharper food than the likes of rabbits to the larger predators. The combined rabbit and fox front proved to be too much for even the strongest wolf packs to make successful raids. It even gave them a strength to strike back. The foxes night vision and rabbit hearing made it possible for them to avoid patrols and take back rabbits that might get taken during raids. Usually scouts and lookouts that were beyond the lines.
This lasted for centuries. They farmed, raised chickens, and is the reason that we Hopps even now maintain one of the largest chicken farms in the tri-burrows. As we merge the histories and documents of the Wilde and Hopps families, we see more and more reasons for those things we have just always done and didn't know why. Like the chicken farm and why we dig the burrows larger. There were marriages between the foxes and rabbits, and we think even successful interbreeding." Patting her belly gently. "There are even hints at a few other species breeding with Hopps rabbits in the long past. It is why my entire family are actually omnivores, some like me a bit more carnivorous than others, but we can all tolerate meat just fine.
However, as with things back then. A rift formed and the foxes were driven out of the burrow on a lie. One of the Hopps warrior bucks refused to leave his wife. A wife that had been approved and lauded at their betrothal as helping to bring the families closer as she was also a warrior. He was allowed to give her one of the Hopps sapphires in a torque. As you can see, it has since been rese, " pointing to the pendant around Vivian's Neck. "He left with the Wilde's when they were forced out. There were a number of rabbits that left with them, and what happened to them is something we are hoping to find out. It's time, if that family line still lives, to bring the families back together.
And that is why, upon finding that stone next door, along with a number of other stones that were stolen a century or so ago, we, my mom and I, felt it should go back to its current rightful owner. Vivian. You see how it shines like that? How my mom's ring does as well? One of the mysteries of the Hopps sapphires is that they become brilliant like that when worn by the one that is supposed to be wearing it. When sitting they are the deepest blue, and when worn by someone that should not have it, it becomes dull, almost as if being worn by such a person tarnishes it."
Fru Fru sighed. "Oh, that's amazing. I take it that the stone was lost some time after they left?"
Judy nodded. "The records suggest it was lost to raiders a few months after they were forced out, before they were even able to find a new home."
Fru Fru nodded. "That's an amazing story Judy. You're saying that you have documents that prove this?"
"Yes. The family historians are merging the histories and documents from both families, along with other information. We hope to have everything put together by the time we hold a very large extended family-get-together. After learning all this, Nick and I think that the fact that there is fox and other predator genes in the Hopps family line, helped us get pregnant."
Fru Fru sat on the couch arm rest and leaned back on her arms, looking up at Judy. "Well... I couldn't share this even if I wanted to. The idea that in the ancient past a family of foxes and rabbits lived together, peacefully, defended each other, even married. No one would believe that. If you can prove that... Judy, that would be world shattering. It would scream out how the divisions we have even now in our society are false."
"It would. It would. But that is also why you can't get one, Fru. I'm sorry."
Shaking her head, Fru smiled. "Not to worry Judy. I can get plenty of other jewels, but something that special. I can see why your family holds them so dear. Now, that explains why Vivian has one, but why don't you? I would think you had earned one for you and your mate."
Joan nodded a leaned forward. "Yeah! Why don't you have one, Judy?"
Lizz leaned forward slightly, a look of concern on her muzzle. "What happened Judy that you don't have one? Is this why your relationship with your dad is so strained."
Bonnie frowned but didn't say anything as Judy sighed. "For that we don't' have to dive quite so far back in time. Only to just before Nick and I got married. We had been together for nearly a year, and this was after I almost strangled him for not proposing, because I hadn't made it clear that I wanted him to. That was when we finally realized we needed to talk a lot more about our differences of culture and expectations in a relationship. We had a lot of long conversations after that.
Anyway… he had proposed, and well… Fru, you were there, and so were you Lizz. It was so damn romantic. Blasted fox. I think it was six or eight months after that and we were seriously talking about the wedding, what we wanted, who to invite, and when to hold it. We'd discussed the fox wedding and the rabbit wedding and how different they were. We knew we'd be doing both. It was clear that we would also have to reveal our relationship to my parents if we were going to invite them. Nick insisted, because he knows how much family means to me.
While there, I planned on claiming my sapphires. We had even come up with designs for them that would work with our jobs while being discrete as well. We made plans to visit, just as we had many times before. We were careful when we were there before. Making sure the door was locked. I am sure mom knew we were intimate, but I don't think she realized just how serious we were." Glancing at Bonnie with a light blush.
Bonnie laughed. "We knew, or at least I did. Your dad didn't want to hear that you and Nick were more than just friends. Though, you are also right that I had no idea you were that serious, or just how much love was between you two... I was blind to that part." Looking down with a hint of shame tinging her voice at the end.
Judy smiled and gave her mom a reassuring paw squeeze. "We're not there anymore, mom. Gods, I'm not sure who was more nervous, Nick or me..."
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A/N Keep the reviews and comments coming, it's making Muse happy, which lets me work on this and other things. 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.
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