Scars and the Claws That Leave Them

by HakuroNoKage

William Grimm newly transferred to the ZPD from the Ulfhaven Sheriff's Dept. tries to move forward with his life as his past remains a burden that seems to haunt him at every turn. Rated M for everything under the sun, and Nihil Nove Sub Sole. Much love, and many thanks to Darkwolfslayer21 for a cover image for this story, and for so much more besides. It's Nodachi Time.

11. Orchid

A/N: I feel the need to say that I'm neither a girl, or a muslim, and I describe some things those who are would have a better grasp of than me so please be understanding that I have tried to be as unoffensive as possible. Also be prepared for another wall of text towards the end. For the record I'm writing this story more for me than anything else, but I do very much appreciate reviews. Also shout out to Darkwolfslayer21, you should totally give his story Monsters and Animals a read it is worth it in my opinion. I can't believe it took me so long to get this finally done, so without further ado please enjoy.

Saturday [Week three, Day six]

"I have already spoken to him as many times as I can, but to you I can speeak as freely as I wish my daughter" the white she-wolf said to her, and she was lost in those eyes that were like moonlight through amber. She found herself unable to speak only able to listen as the she-wolf continued.

"Don't ever give up on yourself, on him, or on all that you can know together. I know you fear me taking him, but that time won't come for longer than even he suspects though you mustn't tell him this, or anything else I speak to you. These words between us are for us alone my daughter. With him you have a chance for something that this world has never known before. You must promise me you won't give up no matter how hard it gets; you have my blessing, but it will only go so far. You must promise me." With the last of her words the she-wolf that she would've mistaken for Lola if she hadn't known better seemed so insistent.

"I promise" she finally found her voice, and responded to the she-wolf though she did not yet realize the weight of the oath she made.

---

It was well into seven in the morning when Layla awoke. She had rolled over expecting to wrap her arm around the large form of her wolf, and to bury her nose in his fur. Instead the form she wound up pulling into herself was smaller with short, but soft fur. Her eyes still closed she felt the form with her paw, and realizing it was a pawful of lapine breast she felt she opened her eyes.

"Well good morning to you too" she heard the voice of Judy say to her.

"Where's Will, and why are you here where he should be?" Layla asked as she let her paw travel down to Judy's stomach were the lapine doe's paws stopped it from travelling any lower.

"He, and Nick left to help with setting up at the fairgrounds. He wanted me to make sure you weren't alone when you woke up." Judy answered while the vixen's paw she had trapped with her own massaged at the spot where it was trapped.

"What time is it?" Layla asked while her stomach grumbled voicing a desire for food causing both girls to chuckle a bit.

"After seven. My mom should have some breakfast saved for us." Judy answered as she stirred unable to move under Layla's grasp.

Layla would've been content just to cuddle with Judy for a little longer, but the hunger she felt like a sinkhole that had formed in her gut was more pressing. They both got out of the bed, and made their way upstairs Layla not caring that all she wore was the shirt she'd had on yesterday, and her underwear. When they reached the kitchen Bonnie indeed had some leftover breakfast waiting for them, and while Judy in her own hunger ate heartily Layla fell on the food put before her ravenously impersonating Will without seeming to try. While she let her food settle she enjoyed wrapping herself around Judy to feel her soft fur while the three girls chatted idly.

"So how did you two sleep?" Bonnie asked them unable to hide her expression seeing the tall vixen act so familiar with her daughter.

"Pretty good, mom" Judy answered.

"I was expecting to wake up with wolf fur to nuzzle into, but instead got this fluff bundle. Gods your fur is so soft Judy I'm so teasing Nick when I see him next that he'd be a fool to never indulge in rolling into you like Will rolls in nature when the mood strikes him" Layla said as she rested her chin on Judy's head.

"Are you foxes all so tactile, or do you both just have a weakness for soft things?" Judy responded before asking her mom "So what's the plan for us girls today before we head to the fairgrounds?"

"As solitary as some of us are we can be very cuddle hungry especially if we've spent too long alone" Layla replied before Bonnie answered her daughter.

"I had expected we'd need to get everything for the festival ready to go, but thanks to Will, and Nick's help yesterday there wasn't much to do so I put some of your brothers, and sisters on it. All we have to do is make sure the younger kits are ready when it's time for us to head over." Bonnie answered.

Layla just smiled contentedly from between Judy's ears before an odd sensation in her abdomen caused her expression to fall, and she got up from the bench seat extricating herself from around Judy putting a paw over her stomach before making her way to the nearest bathroom as swiftly as she could both lapine does calling out to her asking if she was okay.

Judy, and her mom looked at each other worriedly while Bonnie rose to head into the kitchen to put what was left of breakfast away. After several minutes Judy was about to follow after Layla to see if she was okay when the vixen in question came rushing back to Bonnie where she fell to her knees wrapping her arms around the elder lapine sobbing uncontrollably.

"Oh, honey what's wrong?" Bonnie asked as she stroked Layla's head her motherly instincts triggered into comfort mode.

"Mom" Layla managed to say before she cried even harder not that it seemed possible for her to do so as she buried her head into Bonnie.

It took a minute for Layla to calm down enough to look into Bonnie's muzzle, and the look in the vixen's eyes told Bonnie all she needed to know as many daughters as she had reared.

"Oh, hon. I'm so sorry" Bonnie said as she hugged Layla as tight as she could her muzzle showing her understanding.

"What's wrong?" Judy asked her confusion written on her muzzle.

"Judy, dear you need to get the keys for the truck, and take Layla to the hospital to get her checked out. It is what I think it is?" Bonnie asked the vixen who seemed unwilling to let her go.

Layla just nodded before it seemed her strength left her, and it took both bunnies to help her back to her feet, and into a pair of her pants Judy swiftly retrieved from downstairs then outside to one of the farm trucks. While Judy drove to the hospital all Layla could do was bury her muzzle in her paws, and cry which filled Judy with worry since she still didn't understand what was wrong causing her to drive as fast as the old truck could go. When they got to the hospital Layla seemed to recompose herself, but she held Judy's paw like a lifeline as they entered the building. The lapine receptionist, and every other bunny present all gave Layla the same incredulous look at seeing such a tall vixen who still seemed quite distraught.

"How can I help you miss?" the receptionist asked Layla when she reached the front desk.

"I need to see a doctor, one who has experience with my species if I can. As soon as possible, please" Layla answered, and the way she put emphasis on that last word got the bunny before her immediately calling to see if a Doctor Fields was free.

The doctor in question had been just finishing making her morning rounds when she was paged, and made her way to the waiting room with curiosity, and a mild sense of apprehension. When she reached her destination she was surprised to see a fellow vixen she didn't recognize as a local, and marveled internally that the vixen she neared was a good foot taller than herself.

"Come with me my dear, and we'll see how I can help" the doctor said to Layla whose tear stained muzzle was cause enough for concern.

"Thank you doctor . . . " Layla managed to say without breaking down again though she reached a paw out to the doctor who shook it at first before leading the much taller vixen to an open exam room by it understanding whatever had happened clearly had not been good since the vixen who introduced herself as Layla Eidolon wouldn't let go of her paw.

"So what brings you here today?" Dr. Fields asked when she'd gotten Layla to sit on the exam table.

"I . . . I miscarried this morning . . ." Layla answered unable to hold back more tears.

"Oh, sweetie . . ." the doctor responded before resting her paw over Layla's doing her best to be comforting. She knew this kind of occurrence was never easy on any girl, and her heart went out to Layla.

"Well there are some tests I'd like to run to make sure you're okay. It's not even winter yet, and you're already ovulating? I hope you won't mind answering some questions." the doctor said to her.

"Thank you, I'll answer what I can." Layla responded.

"Well for starters I hope you don't mind me asking how you're so tall? I imagine the growth hormones in your system might have something to do with your early ovulation." the doctor asked.

"Well as a kit I seemed to always grow more than other foxes. I only found out later in high school that I had a pituitary gland issue. I'm a very lucky example of a vulpine with gigantism who eventually stopped growing." Layla answered.

"I see. Okay, well if you could give me a brief rundown of your sexual history, and have you been on any form of birth control?" the doctor inquired.

"I used to be on the pill for several years, especially with how often my former job required me to seduce males vulpine, and otherwise. Though I haven't taken anything in a bit over a year now since I was only active with other females before I reunited with my mate. I hadn't thought to start back up again either since I didn't think I could get pregnant with him" Layla responded.

"I won't ask what your former job was, but the lingering effects of long term hormone suppressants is probably the reason you miscarried today. May I ask why you didn't think your tod could get you pregnant?" the doctor asked.

"Because he's not a fox. He's a wolf, an arctic wolf." Layla answered with a shy smile.

"A wolf?" the doctor responded taken aback "I didn't think such a thing would be possible. Normally antigenic response usually prevents most interspecies couples from conceiving. I can't say anything definitive since I'm not a specialist in this sort of thing, but that may be the real reason you miscarried though I'm now curious how your ovum were more receptive to his sperm. Honestly I think you should see a specialist as soon as you can."

"I think I will when we get back home to Zootopia" Layla replied.

That bit of Q & A out of the way the doctor had Layla take off the lower half of her clothes, and lay back on the table so she could be examined. When the doctor was done she took a blood sample to run a couple tests before telling Layla that she was perfectly fine, but recommended she wait before trying to get pregnant on purpose. As the doctor told her to wait while she left to run those tests Layla asked if the doc could send in Judy before redressing herself.

"So what's the verdict?" Judy asked tentatively when she entered the exam room, and saw Layla sitting looking a little better after having washed her muzzle in the nearby sink.

"First things first, sister." Layla responded getting off the table, and opening her arms for a hug.

"Thank you for being there for me when I needed it" Layla said as she embraced Judy before continuing "What happened this morning was that I miscarried. I need you to keep this a secret, okay. If I really can bear a kit with Will it's gonna take me a good long hard think on how I could even tell him. He's mentioned being willing to adopt, but he's never wanted biological children of his own, and I'm not sure how he'll take it."

"Why hasn't he ever wanted children of his own?" Judy asked.

"That's the operant question isn't it? Short answer: Angel that he is he's never felt it was his place." Layla answered.

All Judy managed was a confused expression before she said "Don't worry I'll keep it secret, and make sure my mom will too. She's surprisingly good at it."

"Thank you my sister" Layla replied finally managing a smile.

"We barely know eachother, and you think of me as a sister? Not that I mind, I'm just curious." Judy said.

"Will already sees Nick as his pack brother. Should Nick accept Will as his alpha not only will that make him a brother of mine as well it will also make you, and your family part of our extended family. I know that'll sound a little odd since you're only Nick's girlfriend for now, and not his mate outright, but Will has never bothered with little details like that, and the rest of us can't help, but follow his example." Layla explained.

"How would Nick, and I even become mates if our relationship grows that far? We're so different . . ." Judy wondered.

"It is one thing to submit to another out of common sense, and another to do it out of love. Other mammals think of wolves primarily as the pack oriented ones, but we foxes too are known for having packs of our own. Love is a fluid thing so the process of mate bonding is not set in stone. It'll be one thing when you mark eachother as belonging to eachother, and another when it's not needed despite how fresh you may be inclined to keep them. It will also be one thing when you bare your throat to him because you want him to bite you in pleasure, and another when you are doing it because your heart is in his paws. Likewise it will be one thing for him to bow to your will because you are right, and another when he is exposing his throat to you flat on his back. Should he ever do that in the future you will need to know what to do; you will need to do your best to stand over him on all fours, but do not bite his neck even if your instincts tell you to do so; you will need to scent roll your neck into his. So much of what we do amongst our own kind is based in instinct despite the more ritualized aspects you may want to do your own research on the subject." Layla did her best to explain though she felt there was a certain something she failed to express so she added "For now just let your relationship with him grow as it will."

"Will submitted to you like that?" Judy inquired.

"Actually he didn't. Though we are mated for this life the only one he would ever submit like that to is the Wolf Mother. He didn't need to submit to me in that way because the power I have over him is proof enough." Layla answered.

At this point while they'd been talking Doctor Fields returned to tell Layla that the tests showed from the hormone levels still present in her blood she'd only been pregnant for a few days. The doctor reiterated that she should see a specialist when she got back to the city, and should take it easy as far as sex was concerned for a few days to let her body rest. Cleared to go Layla left with Judy, and they drove back to the Hopps farm. On the way back Layla pulled out her phone, and pulling up the zootube app searched for music she felt the need to listen to as well as share. The first song was the Gregorian cover of "Who Wants to Live Forever" by Queen, and it was quite soothing. Judy couldn't help, but ask why she hadn't heard of this before to which Layla responded with a laugh that they were from Germany adding that Will had inspired in her an appreciation for all manner of foreign bands. The next song Layla played by the same band was their cover of "Everybody Hurts" by R.E.M., and listening to it brought back the words the Wolf Mother had spoken to her in her dream/vision. Judy recognized the anthem of the depressed, and looking sideways at the vixen turned her head from the road to fully look at Layla so surprised was she that the vixen was actually smiling.

"Eyes on the road sister" Layla said noticing the expression on Judy's muzzle before she added "The dream I had last night, more a vision really . . . the Wolf Mother told me not to give up. I think she knew this was going to happen since biology is so often in the way of such things. I think now I realize why she wanted me to promise her I wouldn't give up so badly; she wants this, me bearing a child with Will . . ."

"Really?" Judy asked since like most mammals she didn't put much stock in the reality of most mammalian spiritual myths.

"The angels are messengers of the gods, and to those who can listen, or at the time need to they will speak in their ways. I am mate-bonded with the Wolf Mother's Shield, and Sword so she definitely would have occasion to speak with me from time to time. You have no idea how happy this realization of what she meant makes me; I will get pregnant again, and hopefully carry to term, and if he protests I have her in my corner. Her word is his law; my ability to command him is a pale imitation of hers since where I only have his heart she has his soul" Layla responded as she radiated upbeat confidence changing the song to Gregorian's cover of "My Immortal" by Evanescence while they made it the rest of the way to the Hopps farm.

Once they were back Bonnie was glad to see Layla seemed to be in vastly better spirits, and didn't fail to notice her daughter's looks at the vixen as if Judy couldn't quite fathom how Layla had managed to do the emotional one-eighty she had. The three females were quite the team as they helmed getting all the younger kits dressed, and ready for the festival that would officially start somewhere between ten, and eleven.

---

It was a quarter to six in the morning when Will awoke from hearing the activity of waking bunnies. He distinctly heard Stu rousing Judy who in turn awakened Nick, and figuring he at least was next on the list got out of bed surprising Judy, and Stu when he opened the bedroom door stepping out into the hall. Nick for his part was still half asleep, and barely managed to greet the wolf's presence with something resembling a cross between a grunt, and a groan.

"Hey brother sounds like you need the coffee more than I do too bad you'll have to make do with a decent shower" Will greeted the still tired tod with a smirk before turning to Judy, and her father.

"Please tell me Stu there's a decent coffee shop in town where I can sate my need for 'Johann' before we get started on festival set up. Also Judy would you mind keeping my vixen company till she wakes up? It hurts me enough she has to wake up alone on work days . . ." Will said to them.

"Yeah I don't see why we can't stop for coffee on our way" Stu answered.

"I can *yawn* stay with her till she wakes up. Who knew foxes *yawn* made such excellent cuddle-buddies" Judy responded going to crawl in bed with Layla not seeming to realize her words in her father's presence.

Stu couldn't help his fatherly instincts as he gave Nick a sharp look before saying "You didn't do anything more than that did you?"

"We're both still wearing the same clothes we had on last night aren't we?" Nick responded thinking quickly as the stern countenance of the buck further woke him, and he realized he'd only removed his shirt last night.

Will's laugh at seeing Nick getting grilled, and Stu doing the grilling broke the lapine buck's ability to keep his expression on his muzzle, and he laughed in kind telling Nick "Well that sure shook the morning cobwebs loose from you."

"Come on brother it's showah time." Will said to Nick walking towards this floor's communal shower room.

While Nick, and Stu followed Will down the hall Stu inquired as to how Will seemed to already know where to go. Will just chuckled as he responded that he could smell the water from here not to mention he'd noted it when they passed by it three different times last night. Luckily for Nick, and Will they got the guest floor's showers to themselves though unluckily they'd have to make do with towels to dry their fur. Both canids seemed to equally enjoy the hot water through their pelts, though Will had to hunch under the shower head even after adjusting it to spray as high as it could. When Will offered to wash Nick's back for him half jokingly the tod just looked at him funny before declining causing Will to laugh heartily. Since the fur soap they had to make do with was more for short furred bunnies than long furred canids Nick ended up accepting Will's offer since it troubled the tod enough just getting his chest fur sufficiently lathered. Nick had to admit to himself it was quite relaxing as Will massaged the soap into his back the wolf's larger paws easily covering so much surface area soothing muscles the tod never realized got so tense.

Will with the length of his arms managed to scrub his own back for the most part telling Nick that if he let the tod likewise scub his back he'd end up picturing Layla doing it like she normally did. Will didn't need to fully articulate much more than that for Nick could fill in the blanks on his own, and occupied himself rinsing the soap from his fur. With Will's grunting from both getting the fur soap down to the skin of his back, and scratching the itches that seemed to sprout as he did so Nick with his eyes shut under the water spray failed to realize at first that they were no longer alone. Will however did realize when the small fluffle of lapine does intruded into the guest floor's shower room to sneak a peek, and cared not one whit that he was totally exposed to them. He did however note that some of the older does were likewise naked their fur wet from their own showering, and had to turn the water under which he hunched from perfectly hot to as cold as it would go lest the younger ones see something they shouldn't. It was the older bunny girls who ranged from sixteen to nineteen shooing away their youngers as they noted Will turn his shower to cold that alerted Nick to their presence, and the tod was swift to cover his exposure with both paws, and his tail much to their observers giggling.

"What are you girls doing here? Will you can't tell me you don't care that you're giving them quite the eyeful!" Nick exclaimed as he went for a towel to hide himself with though his attempt was dashed by one of the still naked does who laughed at his expression of consternation when she swiped the towels the canids had left on the sink counters.

"You can't exactly blame them for wanting to look brother. When are they likely to ever see anything other than a naked buck in the fur? Just so long as they look with their eyes, and not their paws I don't mind" Will responded shaking his hips from side to side causing his member to flop about eliciting gasps from the lapine does ogling them.

"What do you mean we can't touch?" one of the oldest asked impishly.

"Ages." Will stated his question flatly.

The five of them answered from the youngest to the oldest two "Sixteen. Seventeen. Eighteen. Nineteen."

"We're both cops, and two of you are underage. That's why you can't touch." Will answered.

"But not all of us are underage." the other nineteen year old responded before approaching Will.

"I can't just acquiesce to the three of you who are of age only to leave out the other two. How would that be fair?" Will countered.

"Not even if we just want to see how big it gets?" the sixteen year old asked removing the towel she had wrapped around herself suggestively.

All Will could do in response was growl lowly in frustration while his eyes admiring her nakedness, and member with a subtle twitch betrayed him.

"What if the two of us are just fine watching?" the seventeen year old asked likewise removing her towel to further entice the obviously weakening wolf.

"I can't believe I'm actually listening to this. You can't tell me you're actually considering relenting to them Will." Nick said incredulously.

"Girls are my biggest weakness brother. Just because I can resist doesn't mean I always like to, but since you're not going to help me I guess I better take matters into my own paws. Since you lovely ladies want at least one of us to make you wet I guess I better oblige" Will said before getting on all fours, and turning sideways from where he was positioned in between the lapine does, and Nick.

"You're not going to . . ." Nick started, but was cut off by Will shaking his whole body to rid his fur of water flinging droplets at the girls, and Nick alike.

The responding squeals from the does who giggled at Will's antics successfully attracted attention which had been Will's purpose. It was goth bunny to the rescue, and while she got her naked sisters to leave the canids alone Will rising back onto his hindpaws, and thanking her for her timely rescue caused her to blush seeing him naked in all his glory.

"You weren't really going to do anything with them were you?" Nick asked him when they were again alone, and left in peace.

"I'll be honest with you brother. If I were your size it would've been so on. As it stands though they're all too small for me to do anything other than use my tongue, and even that doesn't fit all the way. I know this because once a lifetime ago now I was with an arctic hare." Will answered as he toweled his fur a little bit drier than he'd shook it.

"Even the two that were underage?" Nick inquired taken aback.

"I was barely old enough to get it up, and I was doing things with girls, and guys alike. I don't have the filter in that regard that most others have, but at the same time you must understand females are sacred to me; there's no way I could treat them with anything other than gentleness, and honor. Hell I couldn't care less if I come, just pleasing them is satisfaction enough for me. Also some of the laws mammals have in place are very arbitrary . . . that I don't feel as constrained by such contrivances has actually been an asset for taking out worse mammals who likewise would break those laws." Will explained in all seriousness as he went about putting his boxers back on, and then his pants.

The look Nick gave him that was a mixture of disbelief, and disgust said plenty.

"I feel the need to point out now before you jump to more conclusions that I'm more like to go after a girl like Jade than I am Maria" Will said as if the disgust on Nick's muzzle offended him before continuing his tone harsh with seriousness "Don't think for a second I actually pursue underage girls just because I'm as attracted to them as girls of legal age here. You have no idea how much I'd rather have a tigress my own age who has been around the block that I can really cut loose with than any virgin of age, or not that I'd have to hold back with . . . you of all mammals should know the toll it takes on one's psyche holding a mask constant, and just how liberating it can be to let the mask fall away"

"So what are you saying? Why would you have to hold back with a virgin?" Nick asked confusedly.

Will just opened his jaws to tap his fangs with a dull claw before he answered "With my ability to manipulate chi I can do things for girls, and guys most normal mammals can't without learning to do so on purpose, and even then my natural talent trumps any learning even you could do even if I were the one doing the teaching. I can't just pull out all the stops for everyone, and anyone. I'd leave too many in my wake forever seeking something no one else can give, and that'd be just plain fucked up on my part. You should be able to understand how that being the case I very much value the girls I can just be free with . . . the reason my pack is so full of females is because the girls I found that I don't need to hold back around I made my pack mates. The only exceptions are my sisters, and you should you be willing to join us."

"Whoa, whoa, whoa. You would want me in your pack?" Nick asked blindsided by the thought.

"Just know there's a reason I keep calling you brother, and not cousin, and the option is on your table to take, or leave. Not that you'd have to submit to me, just accept me as your alpha, and if I need to give you an order be willing to obey out of trusting me like you trust your partner. Just stew on it for now, and know that regardless I have your back, and Judy's likewise." Will answered before leaving Nick with his thoughts.

It was a lot for the fox to process as he toweled himself dry, and got dressed. That Will openly acknowledged his attraction to underage females tempered by the statement that he did not pursue them over more of age females was itself a tough pill to swallow for Nick. Having seen the wolf seem to weaken against the teasing of those younger lapines only to take measures to get them out of that situation only helped muddle things. That Will had so easily, and seriously said he wanted Nick in his pack truly left the tod unable to really think clearly. Nick had spent so much of his life treated like just another untrustworthy fox that he almost didn't want to believe the wolf was serious about wanting him to be family in that way, but no wolf was ever known to say something like that lightly.

Will went back to the room where Judy was curled up next to Layla grabbing his Black Sabbath shirt before making his way upstairs, and out to his Shelby. Once outside he ran into the Hopps family goth, and finally managed to get her name which was Abby as he offered her shotgun for coming to his, and Nick's rescue. At hearing him offer a ride to their sister several of her brothers, and the two nineteen year old's from this morning all clamored for a spot in the back seat. Will was almost going to refuse them since his first stop was coffee before the fairgrounds, but relented telling them if they fit in the back seat they could ride back there before warning them "My car, My rules."

As they loaded in after he'd unlocked it Will made sure to tell Abby to get into the glovebox for earplugs for everyone, but him, and she did so giving him a knowing look as she was familiar with the band whose shirt he wore. After he started his beast of a car he rolled down his window as he lit a cigarette to tell Stu he was heading to the local coffee shop, and would meet them at the fairgrounds with directions from as he called her "Lovely Abby". Stu just waved in response while Will busied himself with plugging his phone into the stereo, and queueing a song before he turned on the stereo made sure his passengers had plugged their ears. Their hearing safety confirmed Will hit the power button on his car stereo, and hit play on his phone as he cranked the volume to blast "The Four Horsemen" by Metallica.

Only the bunnies still in the house, and underground were truly shielded from just how loud the metal was playing with anyone above ground still in some stage of sleepiness jolted out of it quite rudely. Will just tore ass towards the main road into town like a mad mammal on a mission which for coffee he was. There was nothing not predatory about the look on his muzzle as he sped down the road somehow headbanging, and driving straight at the same time. The next song to play was "Raining Blood" by Slayer, and a few of his passengers started to regret their decision to ride with the somewhat terrifying wolf which was only reinforced when the song shifted into "Something Stronger" by Dagoba though Will did slow down enough to not attract the local sheriffs.

When Will finally reached Bunny Burrow's local coffee shop he turned off his car after parking, and the lapines that disembarked from his Shelby were both grateful for the quiet, and unsteady on their feet after just how fast Will had been driving. Will for his part was pumped, and ready to get his day going with his exuberance leaking over into Abby who followed him into the shop. They were followed by the rest of her brothers, and sisters when Will offered to buy them all whatever they wanted when he reached the door as he locked his car with the fob.

"So you're a metal head?" Abby asked him while every mammal in the place besides the ones he brought with him were staring at Will.

"I'm not just a metal head Lovely Abby. I bet I know, and like quite a few of the bands you listen to. In fact now I know just what I'm playing on the way to the fairgrounds; no spoilers" Will answered as jovially as he could still in need of caffeine.

Hearing him the members of the Hopps family he had with him instinctively got closer together except for Abby, and one of the nineteen year olds whose name was Jackie. Will asked the lapine barista behind the counter to get a quad espresso for him started before she got his entourage's orders started mentioning that he'd be paying for everything, and probably get two more quad's for the road. None of his lapine entourage themselves ordered actual coffee since their hearts beat fast enough as it was with most getting some form of chai latte, or decaf. Their orders taken Will paid for everyone, and was happy when his first of three quad espressos was ready.

"Even when I was in late night study groups with other canines I never saw a single one ever drink coffee. I thought that stuff was dangerous for you guys like it is for us?" Abby pointed out as Will, espresso in paw sipped at it with obvious relish his ears perking up at the bitterness he savoured.

"Oh yeah a single one of these could send even the largest of grey wolves into cardiac arrest." Will answered gesturing with his coffee cup "If any of you hearing this get the idea to poison Nick I'll hold you still while Judy kills you then eat your corpse to get rid of evidence. I'm only able to handle drinking this stuff because I've grown tolerant to it over the years, and have an unnaturally high drug tolerance"

"You wouldn't really eat one of us like that would you?" Jackie asked teasingly.

The way she delivered that line turned many ears, and eyes towards her, especially those of her brothers, incredulous she was actually flirting with such a large predator whose comment about eating someone didn't seem very joking. Will only licked his muzzle in the same way he always did to show off the length of his tongue before answering "No I don't want to eat anyone at least like that anyway, but tasting you, or anyone else willing on the other paw . . ." Will said with a wink at her before adding "No canid worth their fur likes admitting just how easy we can be to poison with perfectly legal foodstuffs. We're lucky that only chocolate is the most well known, and it actually takes quite a bit of it to do the deed."

"You say that like you've been on the receiving end of a poisoning attempt" Abby noted.

"Actually it would've been unintentional suicide. I ordered the wrong thing at a chinese restaurant because it just smelled so good. Barely got the first bite down the hatch before I was tackled, and rather savagely berated by a white she-wolf. Apparently she lost an ex-girlfriend to suicide by eating the same thing, and thought I was going to likewise kill myself. We laugh about it now, and how long it took to convince her I was just hungry, and had ordered the first thing that smelled delicious. It still is one of my favorite dishes, but I can only have a nibble, or two before giving it away to the nearest feline." Will responded.

"You have a mate, and you'd still go there with us?" Jackie asked curiously.

"So would she. We're both polyamorous, and have an open relationship that works for us. Also any prey willing to let us get that close deserves extra special treatment." Will assured her with a grin as nonchalant as ever about this particular subject.

"We all have our drinks so can we go? We do have things to do other than chat all day" Abby reminded them.

"You're right lovely Abby, plus I get the feeling if I keep talking I'm going to get skinned by a fluffle of bucks with torches, and pitchforks" Will half joked as he led the way out of the coffee shop.

"I don't think it'll go that far besides what chance would they really have taking you down even with numbers?" Jackie asked like it was nothing.

"It's one thing for me to tear into another predator in self defense. If a mob of prey came for me I would simply have to die. It would set interspecies relations back too far if I defended myself." Will answered his mood falling like a stone.

"I don't understand. Self defense is self defense." Abby said as they were all getting back into Will's Shelby, and Jackie decided to share the passenger seat with her.

"When I was in special forces my job was to take life in order to protect other lives" Will began as he started his car, and got "Procession/Funeral March" by Sopor Aeternus and the Ensemble of Shadows playing before continuing while he drove "Say there really was a mob of prey trying to kill me, and I did defend myself. It's too easy for me to just kill a mammal outright, and I would soon become covered in blood surrounded by corpses, and not all of them torn apart by these fangs . . . not only would a situation like that instigated by prey, or not do more for the cause of someone like Bellweather than even that ewe did, the whole ZIA would put me at the top of their hit list which I'm just barely not on simply for still breathing. No the only course of action I would have is to let them kill me if I couldn't successfully run, and hide. At least this is all just a hypothetical, and I know for a fact I'm not going to die like that."

"What does the ZIA have to do with anything?" Jackie asked.

"I used to work for them. It's all very classified, but let's just say I'm too good at what I can do for my own good. I actually became a cop to try to get past all the blood, and still do good with my life." Will responded his voice almost despairing as he said 'blood' while he kept his eyes on the road.

"You talk like you've actually killed with your fangs" one of the brothers in the back seat said.

"There were times I had no other choice, and I'll never escape knowing the taste of blood. It's why I've so enjoyed your guys' mother's cooking. It eases my conscience." Will answered morosely as the song shuffled to "My Wound is Deeper Than Yours" by For My Pain.

"It's not like you were doing it to eat somebody" Jackie said trying to break Will's somberness.

"I'm not aware of any such activity, or operation, nor would I be disposed to discuss such an activity, or operation if it did in fact exist." Will replied mechanically as if the doe had pressed a button which in a way she had as only a lapine could concerning this particular subject.

This brought them all up short as they neared the fairgrounds. They were all too stunned by his answer that might not have been an outright admission, but certainly left the door open for them to assume he had at some point eaten another mammal, or more than one.

"Okay, with an answer like that now you really have to tell us about it before we start thinking the worst. Not that you've given us a reason to doubt our safety around you yet" Abby said unable to hide her own apprehension at what Will might say next.

"It's beyond classified. I can't tell you anything for your own safety. I can ask you though what would you want to have happen if you found out one of your own kind trafficked in other mammals to facilitate his own taste for flesh?" Will replied still not admitting he'd actually eaten anyone. It was a secret only Sky, Layla, and the Wolf Mother knew that he wanted to take to his grave.

"I'd drop the sack of shit in a barrel of acid while he was still alive." Abbey responded with the most horrible way to die she could think of surprising her family though they agreed with her finding the mere idea of a cannibalistic bunny beyond abhorrent.

Will could not hold back his laughter at her statement as he parked, and was still laughing as he got out of his Shelby only pausing to kill his espresso, and go for cup two. Once everyone had gotten out of his car, and he'd locked it Will managed to calm down enough to tell Abby she wasn't far off from what had happened though he still couldn't give details. When Nick asked him what was so funny Will simply said to the tod that the question of the day was what would you do to one of your own kind if you found out he trafficked in other mammals just so he could eat the 'merchandise' as he pleased. Nick wasn't the only one within earshot of Will to turn a little green under the gills at the mere thought of there ever being a mammal in this day, and age who would do such a thing. Nick eventually answered that a quick death would be too good for such a mammal, and that he'd want such a one eaten alive if such a thing wouldn't require another mammal to sink to that low a level. Will seemed quite proud of the tod's response, and embraced him for it saying to him that with his words the tod proved himself a better mammal than him.

When Will let Nick go, and stepped back he noted the look with which the tod regarded him which was the same as the looks on the lapines around him. Will just ran a paw over his muzzle before saying to them all that there were lines even he wouldn't cross, and while the Hopps family members seemed willing enough to believe this Nick remained skeptical, but he remembered Will mentioning a bloodthirsty rabbit, and not to ask what happened to said lapine so he left well enough alone. Truth be told Nick really didn't want to know, but he felt he understood Will as a mammal a little bit better; where other mammals would balk at staining themselves with the darkness in this world if that is what it would take to see some of that darkness expunged the wolf would stride into it, and not let himself become corrupted even if he could not escape the stains of it.

Will was thankful when Stu reminded everyone they were here with work to do, and he threw himself into the task of helping the Hopps family set up both their customary vegetable stand selling snacks to the festival goers, and the tent they were going to use for their modest agriculture exhibition for those mammals who weren't farmers, but could perhaps gain new appreciation for the toil that put food on so many tables. There was little for Stu to do other than say what needed doing, and watch as the canids led the efforts to make it so. It was not lost on the Hopps patriarch how the two through their effort, and wit made what would have been quite the morning's task not only get done faster, but actually fun to do for those involved. He noted that while Nick when the task was complete seemed nervous to lend a paw with anyone other than his family Will actually sought out others to help if they were willing to let him as if helping out the Hopps fluffle had put a bug in him.

While many of the other mammals seemed hesitant to let the wolf help them since his size was so intimidating those that did were grateful to Will, and spread the word of what a help he was. It did not get lost on Will that many of the rabbits, and other mammals of Bunny Burrow both pred, and prey alike had taken to calling him the 'Gentle Giant', and it only kept his ears perked up, and tail wagging happily as he lent a paw to all who asked. It was nearly ten o'clock when Gideon who was late finally showed having taken longer to bake all the pies for the eating contest he was hosting, and the tod couldn't help his surprise at seeing Will's familiar muzzle waiting at his designated spot. Will wasted no time helping the tardy tod get everything he needed set up with both paws, and a seemingly infectious grin. As actual festival goers started showing up Will's presence, and the recognition of him from the zootube video of his devouring of that blueberry pie kept quite the bustle of traffic around Gideon's spot, and though many inquired if the tall wolf officer would be competing in the pie eating contest Will assured them along with any prospective contestants that he wouldn't be competing unless a polar bear showed up to try, and sweep the contest just to keep things fair.

When the rest of the Hopps fluffle along with Judy, and Layla arrived Judy was happy to see her fox chatting away with her dad as he munched on some blueberries. While Judy walked over to entwine her arms around one of Nick's Layla asked the two males where Will had gotten himself, or rather if they could point her in the direction of Gideon, and the pies. Nick, and Stu both laughed at the way Layla made her inquiry telling her that the 'Gentle Giant' had seemingly been everywhere before offering directions to where they'd heard Gideon had set up, and Judy insisted on dragging Nick along to meet the other tod. Layla proved to be right that where the pies were so to would Will be for that is indeed where they found him having taken over getting the eating contest's participants signed up, and briefed on the rules.

"Where there is pie my wolf so to will you be though I am surprised to see you not likewise eating one" Layla said when she'd entered earshot of her mate.

"I was waiting for my favorite one to arrive, and well here she is now" Will answered without missing a beat.

"Oh? I thought your favorite was pecan." Layla replied with a laugh.

Will just grinned at her, but he cocked his head to the side as he sniffed in her direction curiously. Both he, and Nick noted how this caused the expressions on both Layla, and Judy's muzzles to shift. Judy looked nervous while Layla seemed to be trying to have no expression at all. Will just patted his lap gesturing for his vixen to sit which she did reluctantly.

"I'm not going to ask you why you felt the need to douse yourself in scent neutralizer honey brush. I am however going to make sure you smell nonetheless" Will said to her as he marked her neck fur on both sides with his arms wrapped around her so she couldn't escape.

"Maybe I was just smelling a little strong even after my shower. You know winter is almost upon us." Layla deflected as she giggled feeling him rub into her more than he really needed to.

"Say Judy who's your friend?" Gideon asked curiously.

"Oh, hey Gideon this is Nick my partner in the ZPD, and fox. Nick this is Gideon." Judy introduced the tods.

"Pleasure to meet ya" Gideon said holding out a paw to Nick.

"This beast here isn't the only fan of your blueberry pies." Nick responded gesturing with his head towards Will while shaking the proffered paw.

"Uh... beast?" Gideon replied.

"It's sort of his nickname. Like how Nick there calls Judy 'Carrots'." Layla said from her lupine throne that had taken up gently nibbling on her ears.

"Y'all officers really give each other some mean nicknames. I mean how can anyone call such a friendly wolf a beast just cause he's huge, and Judy you haven't beaten the tar out of this here fox for calling you food?" Gideon responded incredulously.

Will laughed so hard at Gideon's words he slid out of his chair with Layla along with him. Layla seemed more amused Will couldn't remain in his seat not that she'd ever complain about her position on top of him. Nick, and Judy however both looked equally stunned as if they'd neither of them thought of Nick's most prominent pet name for his bunny in that particular light as only a true cook would.

"Oh . . . Ah . . ." Will began recovering from his laughing fit "Gid' cousin they call me beast for damn good reasons you'd rather not know. I can't believe you put it like that cousin . . ." Will started laughing again as if it was the funniest thing he'd ever heard as he went on "The fox calls the bunny food . . . he wants to taste her . . . see how sweet like a carrot she really is . . . but he's still got some blue berries turning his carrot purple. . . AHAHAHA!"

Will's words registering with Judy sent her blushing all the way to the tips of her ears while Nick as he parsed them, and his girlfriend's reaction instinctively protected his crotch with both paws. It took what seemed like a good couple minutes before Nick, or Judy could respond with Will all the while attracting attention with his laughter carrying quite a ways.

Eventually Will did calm down enough after Layla whispered something in his ear that even Judy couldn't catch though it made him certainly do a one-eighty. Nick could only look at Judy as if pleading for her to not hurt him, or worse since for once his silver tongue failed him. Judy for herself once she calmed down assured Gideon that she actually didn't mind the nicknames Nick gave her since that was his name after all which earned a humored snort from Will.

After that their bit of interaction came to a resolution with Will excusing himself from aiding Gideon after he got back on his feet along with his mate so they could enjoy the festival with the as he called her 'Optimizer-Bunny' leading the way. It was something of an unofficial double-date for the four of them with Will, and Nick getting into a friendly competition at some of the stands to see who could win the larger prizes for their girls which for the most part consisted of various plushies. When they got to one of the shooting gallery type games Will couldn't help, but pose a new contest to see who was the better marks-mammal which Layla enthusiastically seconded adding they should do it girls versus guys just to be fair. Nick, and Judy were no slouches in the shooting department, but Will, and Layla both had more training, and more live-fire combat experience so though their weapons were only bb-guns it was indeed a fair suggestion that Judy totally got behind if only out of desire to school Nick. Of the four Will, and Layla did indeed prove the better shots though both seemed off their game with Will being the moreso which allowed the girls a narrow, but clear victory. Will proved a sore loser against his mate, and challenged her to a one on one match that they tied much to his frustration with himself though Layla attempted to soothe his self-confidence by telling him if they were actually at a range he'd probably have won since he was more used to weapons with recoil which did mollify him.

Their fun eventually elicited a small chorus of growling stomachs from the canids present that when punctuated by Judy's own stomach prompted Will to call her 'Adora-Bunny' before sticking his nose in the air to follow whichever food scent caught it first. The first food stall he led them to offered quite the variety of deep fried veggies, and Will who insisted on paying for everyone totally flabbergasted the prey mammals running the stall not only with his ordering for himself their mix of everything, but with how happily exuberant he did so. Layla took it upon herself to amend her mate's order to exclude the brussel sprouts despite his protests which devolved into whining like a cub as she insisted she didn't want to die by dutch oven later that night much to the laughter of Nick, and confusion of Judy. Once Nick explained to her what Layla had meant Judy's face reddened slightly before she informed Nick that should he do something like that to her she would murder him. Nick took the death threat in stride assuring her that he would always be a gentlefox with her though he could make no guarantees concerning what his body did whilst he was asleep. When Layla ordered for herself a poutine with sweet potato fries Will ammended her order to be for two instead of one insisting he'd rather have his own than force her to share to which she quipped that he was damn right she wouldn't share even if he licked her feet. Nick, and Judy for themselves decided to split the mix of everything since there were more fun fair foods to try.

Even with his ability to carry as much as he possibly could Will had to cede that they needed to sit somewhere so they could set down their haul of plushies to enjoy their food. It never ceased to amaze anyone, but Layla how Will enjoyed the vegetables he snacked on once they found an accommodating bench. She alone present knew just how much it weighed on him being the kind of mammal others abhorred simply on principle for crossing the taboos he had for killing with his fangs, and that once he actually ate another mammal. It wouldn't matter to anyone that he mostly killed with his fangs out of self defense when out of ammo, and even then only the kind of mammals who weren't good by any means let alone if others knew he'd actually eaten someone. It wouldn't matter that the mammal, the lapine, he'd eaten was itself an eater of other mammals. As Layla watched him eat, and refuse to share his sweet potato poutine causing her to be the one to do so with Nick, and Judy she couldn't help thinking of all the times they'd talked about it. How he didn't regret any of his actions, and would repeat them all without hesitation, but also how he could not escape his knowing the taste of blood, or his own enjoyment of it. Her mate would for the rest of his life be burdened with the way he was sickened by his own blood lust, and the knowledge that if anyone else knew his secret he'd be hunted down, and killed no matter all the good he'd ever done; yet here was the best mammal she knew she thought as she watched him popping carrots into his mouth like pills, and was she really going to make him a father. She knew that being the angel of wolves that he was he didn't feel it was his place to father cubs, but as her thoughts turned in this direction it was as if another voice whispered in her mind that he would not shirk his duty to be a father, and their cub would know his love as no other.

Judy saw the way Layla was looking at Will while he ate, and bantered back, and forth with Nick. When the vixen pushed away her food looking like she might cry Judy took the opportunity to reach Layla's paw with her own offering her a comforting smile. This seemed to do the trick as Layla just smiled at her before leaning into Will resting her head on his shoulder. Will didn't even break his focus from Nick as he was teasing the fox about the veggies he didn't care for while he responded to Layla against him by leaning his head on top of hers. Judy couldn't help see the two of them, and think to herself that though she, and Nick had a similar easiness to their interactions she wondered if the sentiments between them would ever grow into something similar. It wasn't lost on the lapine doe how such was the clear, and present bond between the lupine, and vixen that they didn't even need a marriage ceremony for all such a thing represented. This caused her to look at her tod boyfriend, and smile to herself thinking of the journey they'd made together so far, and how much farther they would be journeying together more so than before; something within her told her they'd get to where Will, and Layla were, and it would be worth whatever fate threw at them.

Nick as observant as ever didn't fail to notice the complex expression of sadness on Layla's muzzle before Judy offered her a comforting paw with a knowing look, nor how this caused Layla to smile in gratitude before she leaned into Will as if he were her own personal pillar of strength. As he continued the humorous banter with the wolf behind his mask of sly smugness Nick couldn't help, but see the easy way Will was with his mate, and want that same easiness between himself, and Judy. He knew that at this point in their relationship he probably felt more for Judy than she did him, but this didn't discourage him because he just seemed to know their bond could only grow from here. When Will started teasing him about how he didn't care for peas like some kit before mentioning his own distaste for celery Nick felt a random thought pass through his mind about how there was something brotherly about the way Will was with him. The thought was like a butterfly that fluttered then was gone, but the trail it left allowed the tod to finally put his paw on something he didn't even know he needed to. Will saying so openly that he wanted him as part of his pack had planted a seed in Nick's mind, and he couldn't deny to himself how much it cast a light into a darkness within him he didn't know he had. Two decades on the streets did a real good job of engendering in anyone the sense that they'd never belong anywhere that Judy herself had started to undo in him with her friendship, and encouragement as he found camaraderie with his fellow officers, but Will like a flood of moon, and firelight had opened the door for that sense of never belonging to be permanently banished. Nick still needed time to ponder the question of if he could really bring himself to consider this wolf his alpha with all he'd learned of him, but as Will again called him 'brother' Nick likewise referred to the wolf as 'brother'.

When they were done eating, and Will voiced the desire to find some concoction that was part sugar, part craziness he couldn't escape noticing how Nick offered to help Judy from her seat with a paw, and commenting that he was quite the gentlefox. As the word rolled off his tongue Will repeated it a couple times before excitedly voicing his conclusion that Nick's new nickname was henceforth 'Gentlefox', and the whole rest of the day that is what he called Nick if not 'Brother Gentlefox'. For his help in getting a good portion of the festival set up word had gotten around about the 'Gentle Giant', and it quickly spread no thanks to Gideon that the wolf called the tallest vixen anyone had ever seen his mate. With the way many overheard Will call Nick brother, and Judy didn't hide her paw holding with Nick the unofficial story that spread about the four as they enjoyed themselves was that the 'Gentle Giant' was married to the sister of Judy's boyfriend. While some did voice wonderment at how a bunny would be dating a fox of all mammals thanks to the impression Will had made, and Stu unintentionally letting it be known that Will, and Nick were cops alongside his daughter as well as that Nick was her partner at work the majority opinion became that Nick was surely a prime example of how the stereotypes against foxes were wrong.

The four of them were in the middle of debating what would be good for a sweet snack with Nick arguing for Gideon's pie against Will's desire for deep fried ice cream he could smell, but not see while their girls tried tempering the males' fervor by voicing desire for something on the lighter side when a crying bunny kit broke them all out of it. While many other fair goers simply looked at the kit it was the four of them who were first to try, and see what was wrong so they could help. It turned out the kit had gotten separated from his mother which Layla managed to coax out of the poor boy. It took both Judy, and Layla to calm him down though once he had the arms he reached for seeking to be held were Layla's, and she scooped him up giving him a reassuring nuzzle which elicited a giggle from him. Will shifted into 'Tracker' mode as he sniffed the boy in Layla's arms grateful to find the boy bore the marking of his mother before he picked up Judy to put her on his shoulders telling her she'd be able to listen for the boy's mother better from up there while he did his best to sniff this doe out mentioning all parents should mark their kids more often in case of situations like this. It didn't take long for Will to catch the boy's mother's scent which got them heading in the right direction before Judy heard the lapine doe calling for her son allowing the rescue party to hone in on her location. As they approached the near frantic mother the sight of Judy riding on Will's shoulders caught her attention before she saw her son waving to her in Layla's arms; she was just so glad to see her son safe she forgot to get mad at him for getting away from her. When she thanked them profusely for reuniting her with her son Nick was the one to give her his best reassuring smile as he told her it was just what they did in the ZPD.

After that little bit of adventure which only added to the growing reputation of the four Will, and Nick decided to compromise by going for what everyone wanted snack wise starting with Will since he was paying followed by whatever the girls wanted since when they made it back to Gideon's stand they were sure to chat awhile with him. It took a good five minutes before Will found the vendor with the deep fried ice cream, and while he waited in line Layla decided she too wanted what he was having so she tried to convince him to split his order with her. Judy who had been transferred from Will's shoulders to Nick's which put her at roughly the wolf's height laughed seeing the torn look on his muzzle as he looked back, and forth between the source of the smells before him, and his mate. When they saw him visibly relent to Layla's desire Nick couldn't help, but make a whipping motion with one of his paws as well as accompanying sound effects. Will didn't fail to hear Nick, but only responded by looking in his direction, and raising an eyebrow as if to say 'so what?'. Once they'd gotten their treat, and were happily sharing it they left to find whatever sounded good to Judy since Nick was dead set on pie. Unable to really decide Judy eventually settled on pie much to Nick's delight since this meant he could get pie sooner, and Will likewise was ready for pie since as he put it his girl had stolen half of his fried ice cream to which Layla promptly called bullshit.

Gideon was happy to get Judy, and Nick a slice of pie on the house much to their gratitude. When Will asked for a slice insisting he'd pay Gideon had to ask if he'd forgotten what they'd discussed mentioning it was about time to start the pie eating contest which reminded Will of just that. So it was that the four of them followed Gideon to where the pie eating contest had been set up along with a small folding table, and chair off to the side. While Judy, Nick, and Layla found seats they were confused when Will stayed next to Gideon who had taken up a mic in front of the gathered spectators. Despite his apparent nervousness at speaking in front of so many Gideon managed to welcome everyone, and go over the rules of the contest simple as they were. No contestant could move from their seat, or use their paws, and fresh pies would be brought to them by Gideon, and Will. Gideon also mentioned that the plan for the contest had been changed somewhat with Will offering a pre-show demonstration of why he was not himself competing. At that Will took his place at the lone table while Travis brought him a pecan pie which the weasel set before the wolf before pulling out a stopwatch. On the count of three Will tore muzzle first into the pie, and had completely licked the pie tin clean within a hundred seconds before lifting up his somehow still clean muzzle to say 'Next.' In the crowd only Layla seemed to not be surprised since for as much as he'd already eaten today Will had done about average as far as his rapidity of eating was concerned; early in their relationship she'd taken great amusement in seeing just how fast he could kill a meal, or dessert especially when it garnered shocked expressions from their servers. Once his time had been announced to the mammals present Will took up the mic from Gideon to inform the crowd that if they thought that was something they should challenge him to a drinking contest of anything except soda casually mentioning that only camels, and dehydrated polar bears ever beat him at those with a laugh before turning to the contestants.

Will asked them if they were ready once the standard custard pies had been placed before them. Once they all had nodded they were Will counted down from four in Japanese then told them to start, and muzzle first they all were off. The contestants put on a good show, and put up a good fight against each other with Will, and Gideon placing fresh pies in front of each as they finished what was in front of them until they gave up with Travis keeping score. Eventually the winner who was a surprisingly skinny lapine doe was declared having successfully demolished seven whole pies which was two more than the tod who was Gideon's cousin who came in second. Once he was no longer needed Will made a beeline for Layla without seeming to look for her as if he was drawn to her telepathically, and Nick made a snarky comment along the lines of something similar which earned a laugh from both Will, and Layla who simply shook their heads. Will then inquired of Judy if there was something akin to a beer garden at this festival since it was October, and harvest time to which she said there usually was.

So that is where the four made their way with Layla dubbing Will "Der Bier Jaeger" with a laugh. After they found a table, and a server had come for their order Will asked for a sample platter to share with everyone as well as for a pitcher of each of the darkest beers available. The upbeat she-wolf who was minding the table where they sat was certainly bubbly with Will as he gave her his best charming smile. Layla chuckled to herself as she placed a paw over one of Will's sending a clear signal to their server as she said openly how her mate just couldn't resist being nice with upbeat pretty girls though neither could she as she gave their server a wink, and a more suggestive smile of her own. Nick for his part wanted a pitcher of whatever lager the she-wolf recommended knowing he probably wouldn't drink it all since though he didn't drink heavily, or often he felt comfortable enough to imbibe relaxedly. Judy was of a similar sentiment to Nick though she asked for a bunny sized pitcher of the local carrot-wine which was more akin to sake than anything else.

It ended up being a fortunate thing Will had the intent of inundating their table with beer. While the four enjoyed their sampler platter many of Judy's of age brothers, sisters, and their friends joined them. As it was Will managed to claim the wolf-sized pitcher of the blackest beer as his personal mug, and drank from it accordingly while he happily let the gathered fluffle have at everything else. When their server who had introduced herself as June came back around to see if they needed anything she couldn't help her chuckle seeing Will drink from his pitcher as if it were a simple stein, and insisted on getting a photo of him doing so with her phone. When Judy asked her younger sister Abby how college was going the goth doe responded that she'd already gotten her degrees, and had come home for a bit before starting her new job in precinct one's forensics department. Judy's congratulations of her sister got drowned out a bit by Will's celebratory howl that got echoed by June much to the she-wolf's embarrassment. Will was calling for a toast for lovely Abby's graduation lifting his half-empty pitcher in the air when June reached their table, and gave his shoulder a backpawed smack as her ears were still pink with her embarrassment. Will took one look at her, and understandingly apologized admitting it was easy for him to forget his fellow canids didn't have the howl-control he did. June accepted his apology, and told Layla she was lucky to call such a wolf her mate if half of what she'd heard was true. Layla just laughed in response telling the she-wolf to search zootube for the playlist 'Grimm at work' to see the real half of it. After June left to get more beer, and carrot-wine for the table Layla told Abby that she'd be working with her cousin Alice, and to tell the vixen that she had the 'Eidolon vote of approval'.

"Alice is your cousin, but you mentioned growing up in an orphanage?" Judy couldn't help, but ask Layla hoping she didn't inadvertently insert one of her comparatively large feet into her relatively small mouth.

"I did grow up in an orphanage until I was about ten before I was adopted by the Underland family. It is through that, that Alice is my cousin though as close as we are we might as well be sisters though anymore she's the only one I have contact with. It is safer for the rest of her family to not be in contact with me. To be honest they were good to me, and I do miss them, but the true home I found was with a coven in scotland." Layla answered.

"Now there was an awkward introduction when she brought me around." Will added with a laugh.

"You're a witch?" Abby asked with friendly curiosity.

"More like a natural empath who didn't have much choice becoming more aware thanks to shacking up with this monster" Layla responded jokingly gesturing towards Will.

"But I'm your monster" Will responded to her with a grin.

"Hahaha oh, yes you are wolfie baby." Layla replied with a laugh.

"Witches are some of the nicest girls I know why would it be awkward introducing him to them? Even after some of the things he said this morning he doesn't seem like a monster to me." Abby said.

"It was awkward because of his fanged nature. They knew him for what he is almost immediately, and were ready to attack him because they thought I didn't know what he is, and wanted to protect me. We were all lucky calmer heads prevailed." Layla answered.

"Really, there are witches?" Nick asked sarcastically.

"There are, but the truth is nothing like, and often much stranger than the fiction. An incubus sits before you with fangs nigh ever present, and you still would scoff? All magick really is, is chi manipulation with will, and proper intent. Even you could learn a thing, or two. Maybe next time the sky is overcast I'll show you what I'm best at." Will said calmly.

"Fanged nature? I know what you mean it's just I've always found that way of putting it seems confusing in regards to the preds who are like that who already have fangs, and just a little funny in regards to prey." Abby said.

"You know I get very tired of how at the end of the day we mammals get divided like that when I've seen prey more vicious than shrews, and preds as gentle as lambs get credited for." Will responded as if a great weight suddenly was upon him.

"Please my wolf be careful if you do show them what you can do in that regard. I don't think Savannah Central needs a freak snow storm, or flash floods when only light rain gets forecast" Layla said, and though her words seemed hyperbole her tone indicated otherwise.

"Can we get off this subject before I go somewhere, and dig myself a fox-hole to hide in?" Will asked burying his head against Layla's shoulder where she sat to his left.

"And what subject were you on, eh big guy?" Jackie asked as Will sat back up, and she took the opportunity to jump at him from behind wrapping her arms around his neck where he felt her breath as she finished her query in his right ear.

"Nothing that bears repeating" Will replied as he gave a shudder in response to her breath tickling his ear. He could smell the carrot-wine already on the lapine doe's breath.

"Say, Layla do you two really have an open relationship? I've never heard of such a thing between mates." Jackie asked the vixen having moved her head to Will's left side her breath tickling his other ear eliciting another shudder.

"We do though keep up what you're doing, and you're more likely to get action from me instead of him. There's a perfectly good she-wolf's tail for him to chase tonight." Layla replied with a smirk knowing full well what the bunny girl was doing, and how Will would respond if she kept up her antics.

"As long as your guy's tongues are I don't think I'd mind since I know Judy won't share her fox. Though why do you say that? I think a girl like me would be as much a treat for him as I'd be for you." the clearly tipsy Jackie responded before teasingly licking Will's ear.

"Her fox is not for sharing of his own account." Nick interjected tersely.

"Because you are pushing my buttons more than you realize, and you are too small for me. Death by internal bleeding from that is a horrible way to die." Will answered for Layla with an edge in his voice that caused Jackie to let him go reflexively.

Layla knew from the way he spoke that he wasn't really in the mood to get in anyone's pants, and since he brought up a story worth sharing knew just what to say that would help him not downshift into his more base nature "You opened the door for me to tell this story my love, and you horny drunk bunny should heed it. He, and I were on a mission in the desert far to the east of here. We were staying with a family of desert foxes that he befriended oddly enough. They had a daughter barely old enough to have gone through her first heat, and one night a desert wolf snuck into the compound. As everyone was asleep the intruder successfully managed to find her, and take her by force. When her screams awoke me I along with her mother rushed to her room where we found her father already there, and Will who had beaten us all to her aid. Not that there was anything for him to do, but deliver justice to her attacker. When we reached the doorway of her room the scene that greeted us was that desert wolf in pieces from Will biting off his head, and tearing off his arms. Will still covered in that wolf's blood cradled her in his arms where she died, and to this day I cannot tell you who was more grief stricken Will, or her mother. As he cried into the poor girl's body her parents, and I were witness to his wings, and I will never forget it since it was the first time I had laid eyes on them. While her father managed to say a prayer of thanks to Allah, and the Wolf Mother for the angel who brought them vengeance all Will, and her mother could do was howl in their grief . . . "

As she told the story trailing off with the memory of it Will's own recalling of that night triggered his wings though only Layla, and Abby saw them.

"That child did not deserve to suffer as she did, and I know in the Wolf Mother's arms she found healing. There is one wolf's life it did not hurt me to take. Together her mother, and I bathed her thrice, and wrapped her in her shroud; though it is not the custom I would not allow her mother to do it alone for I grieved as she did. By dawn the rest of the immediate family had gathered, and her mother, and father allowed me the honor of leading the Salat al-Janazah. None there did not see my wings, and not know me for what I am thus they did not protest when I dug her grave, and placed her in it. Once her family had all poured in to her grave their pawfuls of earth I saw to filling in her grave, and when my task was complete they did not protest my prayer-howl to the Wolf Mother." With his telling of this Will could not help his tears in remembrance.

In seeing his wings even from where he sat Abby couldn't help rising from her seat to reach out a paw to touch them. To those who saw her she seemed in a trance, and when her paw stopped in mid air Will shuddered slightly as if she had touched him. Layla's eyes grew wide witnessing this for even she had never thought to touch them while Will rose, and turned to Abby saying "You are the first to ever dare such a thing, and I did not think it possible to do; I felt that. Among lapines you are special, and many blessings upon you."

Then Will turned towards Nick, and walked towards him to place a paw on the tod's shoulder saying "For you my brother I want to give this blessing that you will know me as I am, and that may the love in you never falter, or fade."

As Will spoke Nick instinctively reached for Judy's paw, and as he finished speaking both of them saw his wings, and were awestruck by the sight. Will was still in 'Tenshi-mode' as Naomi had once put it when they all heard a lapine voice say 'Sweet stars above.' causing them to see a lapine doe in a habit fainting, and being caught by fellow sisters who caught her exclaiming "Mother Superior!" as they did so as did Abby as she rushed towards her. Will simply grinned knowingly as he approached the lapine nuns, and kneeling down next to this Mother Superior licked her face before anyone could say, or do anything, but his chi laden action roused the bunny.

"I've always wanted to lick a rabbit in a habit" Will said with a chuckle before reaching out with a paw towards the recovering doe adding "I hope you will forgive me my lady for doing so."

The sisters behind her all came out of their shock shouting a chorus of "How Dare You!" before the Mother Superior in question shushed them all sternly her eyes still wide seeing more of the comparatively giant wolf than her fellows.

"Mother Superior I'm sorry I forgot you were coming to get me for bowling night" Abby apologized.

"Hush child there is no need for that." the Mother Superior said to her before addressing Will "Angele Dei you need not apologize. I am honored you would be so familiar with me."

At her words Will lowered himself bowing to her such that his nose kissed the dirt. The Mother Superior couldn't help, but reach out a paw to stroke the fur atop his head, and at her touch he shifted his position so that he was laying on his stomach with his legs tucked under himself. The meaning in his actions was not lost upon her, and she wept openly at the display of trust, and surrender he showed her much to the confusion of her fellows. Layla on her own account was equally stunned, but more because as often as he had said he disliked monotheism, yet got along well enough with mammals of the cloth she'd never actually seen it.

"Dear Abby I take it you know this Angel?" the Mother Superior asked her.

"My Lady, Lovely Abby is the first to ever touch my wings, and I have conveyed upon her many blessings" Will answered.

Finally one of the nuns who was something of a spitfire could take it no longer, and spoke "Mother Superior what is going on? A wolf of all god's creatures dares defile you with his tongue, and you call him an Angel of God?"

"Your mind is still too clouded by the fog of this world child to see him as I do, and dear Abby has. Pray one day you will be so honored as to meet an angel in the flesh. I must say though I never would have thought such a thing possible myself." the Mother Superior chided.

"My Lady clasp paws with your fellows as you touch me, and I will try to show them what they cannot see" Will said as he enjoyed the way the Mother Superior was stroking the fur on his head. When they did so he focused his chi much as he had for Sarah, and not only did the pawful of nuns before him witness his wings, but so too did many of the mammals that surrounded them including June who had turned towards the commotion, and Stu Hopps who had come to enjoy a pint with Nick.

The nuns before him all made the sign of the cross while whispering "God is truly great" to which Will responded lightly "Allahu Akbar, Hallelujah". Normally using his chi to force others to see what they normally could not took quite the toll on him, but in this instance it did not though he did not see the reason why only felt it. As it appeared to the nuns in front of him, Layla, June, Nick, Judy, and Abby there was another Angel behind him resting a paw on his back - the Black She-Wolf of the Night Sky lending him chi. Where to those who bore witness to the metaphysical truth before them Will's wings seemed to be made of what could only be described as a golden light like looking at the harvest moon, those of the Black She-Wolf were more like the silver of star light. As quickly as the wondrous sights before them seemed revealed they were gone, and Will was just a large wolf laying before a rabbit in a habit like some nativity-like image.

Shortly thereafter Abby left with her friends of the cloth for their weekend bowling, and Will went back to the table where everyone else was still sitting to drink some more. At first there was only silence broken by Will killing his pitcher of beer until Will made a joke about having Layla remind him to go over his bucket list to see what else needed checking off, and Nick made a quip about it being more like a bathtub if licking the face of a nun was the kind of thing on it. From there the banter was light, but merry till the sun began to set, and it was time to head back to the Hopps farm for something resembling real dinner. Will led Layla along with Nick, and Judy to his Shelby quite insistent that he had the booze hungry, and was determined to fill himself with more of Bonnie's wonderful cooking. Nick couldn't help, but ask him if he was going to turn into a sheep at the rate he kept eating like a vegetarian to which Will responded that the tod still hadn't seen him tear into a roasted chicken yet, and not to revoke his pred card just yet with a laugh.

The rest of the Hopps family wasn't too far behind them, and Will was thankful Judy knew where the spare key was kept since after the day he'd had his priorities were simply to shower then nap before dinner which he insisted would give him time to ponder tonight's bedtime story for the kits telling the three of them to spread word from him that he'd have one for the little one's by bedtime. Will made his way downstairs to the guest shower room, and once naked languished under the hot water at one end of the room so he could sit on the floor with his back against the wall while the water washed perpendicularly over him. He was actually dozing, and nearly half asleep when Layla came to check on him, and almost thought better of turning the water to cold on him just to rouse him; almost, and knew when he didn't react to the temperature shift that he was truly tired so she turned it off before doing her best to get him back on his feet. Will looked at her through half-lid eyes before rising to all fours, and shaking himself dry not that either of them cared at how wet he got her before he followed her quite naked back to their guest room keeping in step with her so his neck stayed in loose contact with her legs. Layla needed only pat the bed, and up onto it he got staying on all fours as he made himself comfortable taking up the whole mattress. Will was already drifting off as she gave his muzzle a loving lick before leaving to go help prepare dinner.

Will was well, and good into his nap when bunnies found him, and curled up next to him. Even in his sleep he seemed to press back against wherever they laid against him getting himself closer to them as they snuggled into his warm fur. The younger ones were all against his back, and being known for snuggling felt even more content when such a large, and warm mammal reciprocated. Jackie had been the first to get the idea to nap next to him, and after feasting her eyes on his nakedness since he'd rolled onto his side she had the sense to cover him with a blanket. When her litter-sister found her she was curled against his head such that her head rested on top of his while her torso was against his muzzle, and he was making himself more comfortable nuzzling into her which amusingly moved her across the bed. After managing to stifle her laughter at the way his nuzzling caused Jackie to slide across the bed nearly to the edge her litter-sister Elizabeth decided to join in by laying bodily across his neck. It only took one kit seeing their older sisters napping with him to spread the word to the other kits, and those that felt like joining the nap wasted no time making themselves comfortable against him, and each other.

With Layla helping Bonnie with dinner it was left to Judy to rouse Will when it was done, and at first when she entered the guest bedroom she wondered where Will had gone until she noticed the half of his muzzle not covered by Jackie. It took all of Judy's willpower not to burst out laughing at the humour, and adorableness of the sight before her which would've woken them all ruining it. It was too much of a photo-worthy moment for her not to snap several with her phone as if she were photographing a crime scene getting different angles to show the extent of the fluffle-pile on, and around such a large example of a wolf. Her evidence secure in her phone, and uploaded to her FurBook page just in case she tried to wake everyone up by saying dinner was ready. The response she got made her wish she'd had the forethought to video record them because the fluffle around him just snuggled together tighter, and what of Will's muzzle that was visible looked even more content as a smile grew upon it. Her phone going off with notifications began the stirring of the kits so she repeated that dinner was ready which this time did the trick, and soon enough Will was uncovered eliciting a very long, and almost pitiful whine from the still asleep wolf.

Will in his sleepfulness suddenly felt cooler than he had, and opened his eyes enough to register Judy watching him with her phone in a paw, and that there was still something wonderfully soft, and warm around his head so he reached up for this source of warmth, and moved it so he could pull it into his chest. Though this took warmth from his muzzle that was quite pleasant he just encaged it within his arms only cognizant enough to recognize that it was an adult rabbit he held like a living stuffed mammal albeit much more gently. Jackie the rabbit in question was like a kit herself the way she found herself suddenly surrounded by the thick fur of Will's chest, and burrowed into it. At this Judy couldn't help her laughter both at the adorableness in their actions, and frustrated they seemed to not want the memo that dinner was ready. After she managed to regain her composure she raised her voice to say as sternly as she could manage that if they wanted to go hungry that was fine with her, but she was passing the word to Mom that they wouldn't get dessert either. Will's ears twitched at the mentioning of dessert, and the withholding thereof though only one was visible as the other was against the mattress. Seeing his reaction Judy repeated herself said "That's right mister 'wolf down food' like 'rabbits multiply'. None of my mom's famous blackberry cobbler for you"

"You are a most devious lapine doe. I hope you know that." Will said as he got up carefully maneuvering himself around Jackie who was herself finally stirring.

While Will got off the bed, and over to his shared duffel with Layla for clothes Judy saw more of him than she cared to. Blushing straight to her ears Judy bolted back for the kitchen. When she got back to the kitchen Judy noted Clawhauser was blowing up her phone because of course he'd already seen the photos she'd posted of Will napping covered in likewise napping bunnies, but she'd respond to him later. First things first she needed to show her mom, and Layla who both 'aww'-ed in response. It wasn't long after that Will showed up now clothed, and having heard the ladies asked "What's up?".

"I should've told Judy to lead with what dessert was. You'd have rushed up here still naked with probably a couple kits still hanging off of you." Layla joked.

"Forgive me for being astonished Will seeing you so comfortable being covered in kits . . . wait he was naked?" Bonnie said her ears tinging with pink while her muzzle frowned.

"Don't worry mom I covered him with a blanket. Though I did enjoy the eye-candy." Jackie said with a smirk before yawning as she entered, and adding "Word is gonna spread that he is the mammal to nap with. I can't believe there exists a mammal who likes snuggling more than a rabbit."

"Spend enough time cold, and alone, and you appreciate physical contact with other mammals even if it is nothing more than platonic" Will responded.

As casually as he'd said it there was a certain tinge to his words. Where his expression stayed even the way Layla's muzzle contorted as she reached out a paw towards him placing it on his back spoke volumes. Nick who had walked in from the bathroom heard Will's words, and his muzzle bore an expression similar to Layla's as if the foxes understood them on an existential level which they did.

"I thought wolves being pack mammals usually had large families." Jackie said.

Will just turned to her, and smiled before responding solemnly "When I howl I howl alone; even with the pack I do have."

Something in his words reminded Judy of something he'd said earlier, and she couldn't help, but voice the question it had raised partly in hopes of lightening the subject. "Can foxes howl?" she asked.

This did indeed lighten Will's mood at least as he laughed hearing her question.

"Don't you dare answer that question Wolf." Layla told him trying to hold his muzzle shut with her paws.

"As a matter of fact they can though anymore few really know they're capable of the feat. I can get our present foxes to do it if you'd like, but we'll need to take it outside." Will answered anyway as if his mate's paws weren't even there.

"No we can't" Nick said confusedly.

"We can Nick, but it is embarrassing." Layla corrected him.

"Since when?" Nick asked.

"Why is it embarrasing?" Judy wondered.

"All canids can howl, brother." Will responded.

"It just is embarrassing." Layla answered.

"Oh, come on you two. Oblige us, and I'll give you each a hundred bucks. Hell I'll even make you a bet of it. If you manage to not howl with me you'll get two hundred, but if you do howl with me it'll only be one hundred." Will offered.

"Two hundred? Alright." Nick said looking as if he fully expected to soon have two hundred bucks in his paws.

"I know better than to take that bet, but when we get home you will owe me a favor." Layla replied shaking her head at Nick.

"Alright Judy we're in business. Everyone let's head out back." Will said.

With that dinner was temporarily suspended in lieu of a pre-meal show as Will led Nick, and Layla out back followed by nearly every bunny in the Hopps home. Once they were all gathered Will had all the bunnies stay back away cautioning them that he alone would be loud enough for them to want some distance from him while also whispering to Judy to record the event on her phone, and send it to him as soon as it was done so they wouldn't lose it. After he'd walked a good ten yards away with Layla, and Nick in tow Will sat on his haunches much like he had the previous night when he told the kits their bedtime story insisting Layla, and Nick do the same. While Layla obliged easily enough Nick felt the need to grumble that sitting like a primitive was undignified; Will just spoke over him telling the gathered fluffle to prepare their ears for the loudness he was capable of, and the most adorable sounds they were likely ever to hear from the foxes. Layla couldn't help, but growl at him in response where as Nick for a moment looked nervous before resettling his features into smugness confident he'd soon have two hundred bucks.

Will took a deep breath, and had Layla, and Nick do the same before he began howling. There was a certain happiness to sound emanating from Will, and at first neither Layla, or Nick joined him though Layla looked as if she was struggling not to. Nick simply looked at him funny until Will drew in a second breath, and howled again. Nick began to feel a strange compulsion he'd never felt before, and as Will howled for a third time the tod found himself joining in before he realized it. It was Nick joining in that broke Layla's resistance, and soon enough the three of them were howling in unison. Judy who was recording the whole thing was beside herself for Will had been quite right. Compared to the way wolves normally howled, and she'd heard plenty of that, fox howling on the other paw was truly an adorable thing to hear almost like wolf pups howling of which she'd seen zootube videos of that even she had to admit were quite cute. The sound of them even got responding howls from a family of wolves who lived a few miles away the sound of which was like an echo to the display before them. For well over five minutes the wolf, vixen, and tod howled together before Will through stopping first managed to get them to likewise stop, but before they realized he'd gone quiet the two foxes howled once together their voices unmuddled by Will's which was truly the peak of adorableness.

Once the canids had reigned themselves in it was time for dinner, and everyone went back inside where much to the chagrin of the foxes their howling was the talk of the burrow. Judy couldn't help exclaiming to Nick just how cute she thought that was much to her tod's consternation though he tried to glare daggers at Will when the wolf laughed at Judy's response, and failed when Will cautioned her not to push Nick on repeating his performance since it really was the kind of thing foxes rarely ever did even if they knew that they could do it. Layla for her part insisted her mate pay up immediately, and refused to even let him touch his food until he did despite Bonnie's protests. Will remaining good natured throughout it all simply licked his mate's muzzle before pulling out his wallet giving her a hundred bucks, and two to Nick telling the tod that the second bill was for howling so well for a first timer.

After dinner Will barely had time to smoke a cigarette, or two on the back porch to help settle his meal, and send Benji a text telling the cheetah to speak to no one save the Chief about the video of their howling which he attached to the message before kits insisted he'd promised them another story which Will assured them he would tell encouraging them to make sure both Bonnie, and Stu were there to hear this one. The kit fluffle had barely left back into the burrow when Benji was calling Will, and he had to hold his phone away from his ear for a good minute before the fluffy cheetah got his 'OMG's', and squeeing out enough to form words at a more decent volume. Before Benji could ramble on about what had arguably been the most adorable thing he'd ever seen, and heard Will made sure to sternly reiterate that he was allowed to share the video with the Chief, and the Chief only. Will assured his favorite cheetah that he would withhold hugs for a whole fortnight worth of work days if Nick caught any flak for his howling from any of the other officers unless it could be proven that the Chief had been the one to disseminate the recording which Benji solemnly vowed to not do.

That bit of business settled Will walked back into the burrow paw in paw with Layla who couldn't help, but inquire as to what story he was going to tell. Will simply told her she'd find out soon enough since he wanted to tell it then go to bed. Once they were back down in the common room of the second underground floor, and Will had sat cross legged in the midst of the gathered fluffle making sure everyone was present he told them that tonight's story was going to be a true one from his childhood explaining how he had come to call the sweetest souled arctic vixen the Wolf Mother ever let walk amongst the living his sister.

"It was twelve years ago now" Will began "I was fourteen, and only just nearing five feet tall. The time of year was about what it is now though as far north as Ulfhaven is we were already getting light snow in the night that usually would be melted by noon the next day. This day in question is not a day I'm likely to forget. It was a saturday afternoon, and I'd just gotten out of a Ranger Scout meeting. I didn't really have anything better to do so went walking through the woods looking for a good spot to roll in some nature, and meditate. I must admit that I can't help it, when nature calls to me I must roll in her splendor. So anyway I'd had my roll in the dirt, and not wanting to hear my mom complain to me about getting my fur all full of pine needles I followed my nose to a river where I bathed before heading back into the woods. Normally I'd find a good spot for meditating closer to the river, or I'd be at my favorite spot which was under a small waterfall, but I could only go there in summer elseways I'd get quite frozen. It was under that waterfall I practiced slowing my heart rate to the point you'd think I was dead though it's been so many years since I actually had to do it I'm quite out of practice. I was good, and back into the forest when I found a good spot for meditating so that is what I did. While I was meditating as the day wore away I could feel the coming storm in the sky, and even some of the snow when it started falling though so thick were the trees above me I thought it was just a typical early winter storm. I didn't realize that it had grown to a blizzard let alone one as severe as it had become until I made it back to the road to head home. It was quite the freak blizzard that we normally didn't see so early in the season, and I had to start running on all fours just so less of me was exposed, and I'd maintain my body heat. Us arctic adapted mammals are cold resistant make no mistake, but we are not immune. I was getting near my family home though I could only tell when the wind shifted a bit, and even then only barely; I was navigating more on knowing the path, and instinct than any information my senses could tell me. To this day I swear I heard a female voice tell me to stop as clear as you are hearing my voice now, but I was alone out in that storm. When I did stop I found I'd nearly collided with a parked car. It was too dark for me to see inside, but something told me to investigate, and when I tried the doors only one of the back doors was unlocked. I was half thinking to just use the car for shelter for the night when I found it was occupied by what I could smell was a vixen. One nudge against her with my muzzle, and I knew she was too cold. She was still alive, but needed to get warmer so I did what I knew to do as a Ranger Scout. I took off all my clothes wet from the snow as they were, and I took off all of hers thankful that she didn't protest. I wrapped my whole body around her on that back seat doing my best to make a vixen burrito. I was wide awake focusing my chi on raising my body temperature then pushing some of that chi into her until she stopped shivering, and I felt her nuzzle into my chest. I was first to wake up, and find that the storm had passed sometime in the night. The sun had just gotten past the horizon the light of which had been what woke me up. My clothes were still too wet from the storm to even think about putting back on, but hers were still dry so I got her dressed then opened the back door to get out. Once I was out I scooped her up in my arms, and started carrying her to my home which in the light I found was ridiculously close by. The car I found her in had broken down maybe fifty feet from the long drive to my family home which was itself about a hundred, and fifty feet from the road. So I walked back home through the trees with this vixen in my arms clinging to my chest fur, and as she tried burrowing into me I just held her closer. That was until I tripped maybe thirty feet from the clearing where my family home is built on what felt like fuzzy rock; I managed to drop to my knees first before turning so that the rest of my forward momentum put me on my back, and I didn't land on the vixen in my arms. Of course the jostle was enough to wake her up, and she, and I are both grateful my muzzle was her first sight not what I'd tripped on. She wasn't exactly keen on leaving my arms so somehow I managed to get back on my hindpaws with her clinging to me. Once we were standing though it became obvious what I'd tripped over; her father's foot. It was quite the sight for both of us as neither of us had really seen, or been close to a corpse, and even worse for her because it was her parents. They died from the cold paw in paw, and as she wept into me I wept for her. She couldn't help her howls of sorrow, but it eventually calmed her when I joined her. Needless to say the sound of us attracted attention, but I'd already started carrying her back towards the house because she needed warmth, and comfort, and I needed clothes. My sister Lola had been first out the door, and met us just as I'd gotten clear of the trees. She managed to yell at me for being naked when there'd been an effing blizzard before she saw the vixen I carried, and how we both had been crying which definitely softened her mood. I cannot tell you how glad I was seeing my dad on the front porch, and my mom in the doorway. All I wanted was a hot cup of coffee, and some warm broth, or something for this vixen I felt was my charge so I could at the very least get her name. I was beyond grateful when my mom ordered me into the kitchen saying there was coffee, and breakfast which she busied herself with getting served for us. While I enjoyed my coffee I could tell the smell of fried potatoes, and eggs was getting to this vixen as much as it was getting to me. I asked her what her name was which she told me was Sophie so I told her mine, and that she had to eat something even if she didn't want to adding that I knew it smelled good to her. Before she would even touch the plate in front of us she felt the need to tell me that she'd thought it'd only been a dream when the Wolf Mother came to her to tell her that her parents had to come home, but she was sending her one of her angels, and that in her dream as the Wolf Mother wrapped her arms around her she could feel the warmth of me around her, and my scent filled her nose. Once she had said that our hunger got the better of us, and we both just put our heads to the plate in front of it eating side by side much to my mom's horror though understanding we'd somehow survived that blizzard she let it slide. My dad meanwhile had just come back in the house looking like he'd found her parents which once he got on the phone with the sheriff I overheard that he had. Sophie, and I were to busy stuffing our faces with plate number two still not bothering with utensils to really mind much else. Lola, and my cousin Sierra had joined us for breakfast having both overheard Sophie tell me about her vision of the Mother. Lola seemed to be in the same camp with my mom finding the coincidence too heartwarming not to cry, and sniffle. Sierra on the other paw was in my camp simply taking it in stride though she did keep her eyes on me. Once he was off the phone my dad asked us to come to the living room when we were done with breakfast which took a while since once Sophie, and I had gone through two plates of food together I was still hungry enough to lick clean a third though she did nibble on some of it. Once we were done Sophie, and I along with Lola, and Sierra walked into the living room where my dad did not fail to notice how Lola, and Sierra moved with me as a pack in formation to protect Sophie who had wrapped herself around my left forepaw, and forearm. My dad got us each to recount our version of events with Sophie pressing her body into me before telling us how her parents car had broken down, and that they'd known they were close to our house so they tried to get help, but had her stay in the car where she was at least sheltered somewhat. He told us how he'd followed back along my tracks, and found her parents to which I responded so had we hence the howling. When my dad asked Sophie if she had any other family she could stay with, and she shook her head saying she didn't I was swift to assert that we were her family now, and that she'd be staying with us. That was the first time I'd ever stood up to my father making it clear that I'd broker no contest over my assertion. My father just got up from where he'd been sitting, and looking me in the eye since at that time we were the same height told me he wouldn't have it any other way since as the one who'd saved her life I was further responsible for her. With that I wasted no time marking Sophie as one of my pack as did Lola, and Sierra who at the time were the first two in my pack letting Sophie know now she had not just a new brother, but two sisters as well. After the sheriff had come, and got the story from my dad who is the mayor of Ulfhaven they called in the coroner to take her parents to the morgue. That night, and for the next several nights even though we'd given Sophie her own room she spent sleeping next to me though often enough we were joined by either Lola, or Sierra, or both. That monday morning neither Sophie, or I went to school, and I spent the morning felling a tree, and chopping wood to build the funeral pyre for her parents which once I was done chopping the wood Sophie helped me build working through her grief; you see that far north when the ground is too cold to dig it's easier just to have a pyre though only the older families, or traditionalists will go through the effort since the morgue's crematorium is cheaper. Despite my dad having called out the local priest I rather adamantly insisted on presiding over the funeral, and the priest Father Logan who'd heard from Sophie her version of events was on my side saying if the Wolf Mother named me one of her angels to the one I'd saved then I outranked him. I hadn't rehearsed the words I spoke I just said what came from within that the Wolf Mother had called home one of her sons, and daughters who had joined together in love in the light of her eyes, and under her wings she had taken them home while sending to the daughter they left behind her Sword, and Shield to watch over her, and in whose pack she would always be a beloved sister. Together Sophie, and I lit the pyre we'd built before she could contain herself no longer crying into me as I wrapped my arms around her. I know many of my family found my words then strange especially since I was so open about my status amongst the wolves of heaven, but those that later did express disbelief were resoundingly chastised by Father Logan, and Sierra both. Of course anymore the rest of my family just says to anyone who brings it up that I just get called an angel; only my pack know the truth, and to be honest they helped me downplay the story of me being an angel incarnate. Only my mother seems adamant that I am indeed an angel in truth, and she is deeply honored the Wolf Mother chose her to bring me into this world; I have not bothered to correct her that I was the one who chose her. It wasn't long after the funeral that my dad got the adoption paperwork finalized, and since then Sophie has been my sister in truth."

With that Will was done, and both he, and Stu were equally crying with Layla comforting Will as Bonnie comforted Stu. Despite his pre-dinner nap Will was tired again with the memories, and emotions brought forth by his telling of this particular story. Bonnie was surprised by her kits who she could see had questions they wanted to ask Will, but did not voice them seeing the wolf's emotions clearly on his muzzle. She would later tell Stu when they were in bed that there was a great deal of love in that wolf, and she was glad her daughter had such a one looking out for her besides Nick to which Stu responded that he had seen for himself Will's wings, and was himself felt blessed to be witness to such a sight. Once Will had bid the kits goodnight he made his way to the guest room with Layla, and after they'd disrobed he swiftly fell asleep with her in his arms laying on his chest.

Judy joined Nick in his room telling him Will may be intent on calling him 'Gentlefox', but to her he was her "Cuddle-fox" getting from him a bemused chuckle. Nick thought back over the day, and just how much he'd learned of Will feeling it would help if he talked it out with probably the one mammal he trusted most.

"That wolf sure is a lot to process, eh fluff?" Nick said to her while she made herself comfortable against him.

"What do you mean Nick?" Judy asked.

"He hasn't made it that much of a secret how he ignores some of the strictest taboos we have, and yet he even still is clearly a good mammal. It makes me wonder who is he really?" Nick answered, but from his expression Judy could tell there was something on his mind.

"I'd say he's the kind of mammal who's willing to do whatever it takes to do the right thing. I mean when those fawns were going to get shot he shielded them with his body as if it were second nature, and though he's mentioned how he's killed with his fangs it doesn't sit well with him which is evident in how much he's enjoyed my mom's cooking. I don't think any other wolf would touch half the stuff he did, but I get the feeling that's not what's really weighing on you. Nick you can tell me." Judy said to him, and looking into her amethyst eyes he knew he needed to phrase it properly before he told her.

"This morning he told me he wanted me in his pack, and I just can't help, but wonder to myself if I could really call him my alpha though it isn't lost on me how howling with him was on some level a pack building exercise. We foxes aren't known for being pack mammals quite like wolves are, but we do have them though they're more blood relation only; we get the short end of the stick from so many other mammals wolves included that him really wanting me in his pack which is essentially more his family than his blood-kin . . . It's just a lot to think about Judy, and if I do join his pack that wouldn't just put me in it. It would essentially make you part of his extended family, and by extension your whole family too. He'd become honor bound not to just look after us, and be there for us; if any of your family had need of him all they'd have to do is invoke their status with him, and he would have to come running. My response could potentially saddle him with a great deal of responsibility, and I'm really unsure of burdening another mammal like that even if he doesn't seem to care about that side of things." Nick candidly got off of his chest what had been going through his head throughout the day.

"Can I just say hearing you howl was truly the most adorable thing I've ever heard. Layla told me as much this morning about if you did join their pack. It's not like you have to answer him right away? You've got plenty of time to think it over, and decide if it feels right Nick" Judy responded nuzzling into him.

With that he yawned thinking to himself that he was glad he talked it over with her as he fell asleep easily comforted by every aspect of her presence so close to him.