The Cooper Adventures: The Untold Stories of the Cooper Clan

by Nixter97

Everyone has their secrets; everyone has their stories. Not just anyone can battle witches, demons, monstrous outlaws, and a war and still be alive to tell the tale. These raccoons, however, can tell you, for they have survived some of the most dangerous unexpected adventures of their lives. *RATED "M" for dark themes, language, drug use/references, and some sexual themes*

5. Death of a Lawman

The Good, the Bad, & the Raccoon - Chapter 5: Death of a Lawman

Tennessee wasn't usually one to admit he was wrong, but even he had to admit that sometimes, he didn't always think his plans through.

This was what went through his mind as he drifted through the now-flooded canyon in his barrel, keeping his eyes peeled for something he could latch his gun onto so he could pull himself to shore. Unfortunately for Tennessee, he was floating in the middle of the river well away from any rocks or logs he could grab to get back on dry land. As safe as he knew he was at the time compared to what he was trying to flee from earlier, Tennessee was hoping to get out of the water soon so he wouldn't have to worry about the risk of encountering heavy rapids or worse yet, a waterfall.

"Tennessee! Over here!"

The raccoon's ears perked at the familiar voice calling him, and he looked ahead to see Percy waving to him on the left edge of the flooded canyon with Dash and Ricochet standing nearby. As he drifted closer, he could see the jackrabbit quickly fasten a lasso from some rope he had brought with him before throwing it into the water with all his might. Realizing his friend's intentions, Tennessee held his gun by the barrel and used the golden hook to grab onto the lasso, allowing Percy to pull the floating raccoon towards him. Soon enough, Tennessee was close enough to the edge to step out of the barrel and back onto dry land, not caring that his barrel drifted away further down the river.

"Tennessee! Oh thank God yer still alive!" Percy exclaimed in relief. "How're ya feelin', are you okay?!"

"Well, my legs feel stiff from bein' in that barrel and I'm soaked, but other than that, I feel just fine," Tennessee replied with a smile.

"Really? Ya sure yer okay?"

"As sure as the sky is blue."

"Good!"

SMACK!

Tennessee yelped in pain and surprise as Percy hopped up and slapped him across the face, an indignant frown replacing his former relieved expression. "What the fuck, Percy?" Tennessee demanded as he rubbed his cheek.

"What the fuck me?! What the fuck you?!" Percy retorted angrily. "Do you have any idea how afraid we were for ya when we saw ya make that dam blow?! I had ta promise Jessica I wouldn't come back home until I made sure you were okay! Do you have any idea how afraid I was that you'd downed when the canyon flooded and ya got swept away in that barrel?!"

"But I didn't and I'm still alive," countered Tennessee as the pain slowly left his face. "Besides, I said that I'd buy the rest of ya time to escape, didn't I? And seein' that Jessica and Sheriff Henderson are probably back in Hindus Valley by now, I'd say I fulfilled my promise."

"I know, I just…" Percy sighed, trying to get his thoughts together and calm down. "Just don't do anything like that again, okay? I don't want ya to die before I can pay ya back fer savin' Rudy."

"Ah, don't get so bent outta shape about it," Tennessee smiled. "The most important thing now is we're all safe and Weasen doesn't have Jessica or the Blood Diamond anymore. Now how's about we get on headin' home?"

With a nod of agreement, Percy climbed onto Ricochet and Tennessee onto Dash before they were off on their way back to Hindus Valley, both of them eager for the day's drama to end so they could celebrate with a well-deserved drink at the saloon.

"So if Jessica and the Sheriff are back in Hindus Valley, what about the Blood Diamond?"

"I gave it ta Sheriff Henderson since he was goin' back ahead of us. Hopefully the town hasn't gone ta shitsville since we left fer the Flooded Mine."

---

"HEY EVREYONE! I SEE MY BROTHER AND TENNESSEE COMIN' THIS WAY! THEY MADE IT BACK!"

Rudy's jubilant declaration from atop the roof of town hall was heard by everyone in the town's main square, and within seconds a crowd had formed to welcome back the two young men who had joined the town's Sheriff on their daring rescue mission. Once the raccoon and jackrabbit rode into view, the townsfolk erupted into joyful cheering with some throwing their hats into the air in celebration, making Tennessee's chest swell in pride and made Percy blush at the praise he was receiving.

Dismounting from their steeds once the crowd gave them some space, the duo saw that some of the gathered townsfolk sported slings and bandages, no doubt from the injuries Weasen had caused during his escape. Soon enough, they could see a familiar young jackrabbit hurriedly making his way to the front of the crowd.

"Percy! Tennessee!" Rudy exclaimed as he lunged at the two and embraced them in a hug. Despite their sudden surprise, the older mammals were quick to hug him back.

"You two knuckleheads did it!" Percy laughed. "And here I was worried that Weasen would send ya back here in a pair of pine boxes!"

"Well, now ya know, little brother," Percy grinned at his brother's admiration, "it'll take more than some fancy pants showman and his magic tricks ta bring us down!"

"PERCY!"

Before anyone could think, Rudy was shoved aside and Percy knocked onto his back by a grey and yellow blur that was Stacy Rivers, shedding tears of joy at her crush's return and wasting no time as she began hugging him and nuzzling his chest furiously, much to the male rabbit's embarrassment.

"Oh thank god yer okay!" She sobbed and continued to nuzzle even as Percy got to his feet. "When ya said you were goin' on out ta help the Sheriff get back Jessica and the Blood Diamond, I was worried I'd never see ya again!"

"Well, lucky for you, here I am," Percy replied with a roll of his eyes as Stacy remained latched onto him, unwilling to let go. "And Tennessee is back too, in case ya haven't noticed already."

"And thank goodness fer that."

Tennessee turned to see Miss Benson making her way to the front of the crowd, a look of relief on her face as she approached the raccoon. "Miss Benson," he acknowledged with a polite tip of his hat.

"That was mighty brave of you and Percy, Mister Cooper, going after them crooks with the sheriff like that. I haven't seen that kind of bravery and determination since Sheriff Henderson was in his prime. Lord knows we needed someone like you ta deal with men like that Weasen fella, 'specially after that dirty dynamite trick he pulled on us all when he was escapin'."

"Aw, it ain't nothin'," Tennessee stated humbly even as the gathered crowd agreed with the otter schoolteacher. "I just did what anyone else woulda done if the mayor's kid got shanghaied. An' Now that I mention it, where's-"

"Tennessee!"

The crowd immediately parted for Mayor Evans and Jessica, who made a beeline towards Tennessee and Percy looking both relieved and worried for the duo.

"Oh, thank God you boys are back," Mayor Evans sighed. "When George came back alone with Jessica and the Blood Diamond, I was worried that somethin' might've happened to ya both!"

"Well, all that happened was I had ta buy some time fer the others ta get far enough away from the mine ta be safe, an' Percy just stuck around ta make sure I'd make it outta there alive."

"But are ya hurt?" Jessica fretted as she approached Tennessee. "Ya didn't get shot or anything, did ya?"

"Nah, just a little wet but I ain't hurt at all."

"Good!"

SMACK!

Everyone flinched and winced as Jessica slapped Tennessee hard across the face, a livid look now sporting her features. "Ow!" Tennessee complained. "That's the second time that's happened ta me today!"

"You god-dang moron!" Jessica ranted but made sure not to not to swear in the presence of any children present. "You nearly scared me ta death with that crazy stunt ya pulled back at the mine! If you didn't make it, I… I would've…" Jessica trailed off, her rage leaving her as he panted and glared softly at the male raccoon. "Just don't do anything like that again, ya hear? I don't think I can handle another fright like that. So please don't ever…" She trailed off again as she glanced at Percy, a look of concern donning her features. "Oh God. Percy, your ear."

The male jackrabbit looked upwards at the bullet wound he received from the chase, remarking, "Oh yeah, I forgot about that. I got shot when we were escapin' the mine."

"Ya got shot?" Rudy voiced in amazement at his older sibling. The more he kept looking at the hole in Percy's ear, an impressed smile crawled onto his face as he remarked, "Well, I think that look suits ya, big brother. Now people will think twice before callin' you a patsy."

"Well, I don't think ya need ta worry anymore, Jessica," Tennessee told the mayor's daughter with a smile. "We're all back here safe an' sound, the Blood Diamond's back where it belongs, and I think Weasen's not gonna be botherin' anybody anytime soon. So how's about we-"

"Outta my way! One side! Make a hole!"

Tennessee paused when he heard an angry-sounding yet familiar voice meet his ears, and he turned to see the owner of the voice shoving her way through the gathered crowd. Once she came into view, Tennessee and Percy's eyes widened in shock upon seeing that the voice belonged to none other than Warden Jones, who looked disheveled, angry, and indifferent towards Sheriff Henderson and the town's doctor, a middle-aged male badger, at her sides trying to calm her down.

"Miss Jones, please, you really shouldn't be working yourself up like this!" Implored the badger, Dr. Woodrow, as he tried to ease the fuming vixen.

"He's right Sarah," Sheriff Henderson agreed firmly. "After the state we found ya in, it'd be best if you tried ta relax."

"Relax?! After all the shit that's gone down fer me today, relaxation's the last thing I need ta worry about, George!"

"Warden Jones?" Tennessee asked, getting over his shock at seeing the allegedly-deceased warden of Iron Rock. "What the hell happened to you?"

"That's just what I was wonderin', deputy," commented Sheriff Henderson. "Soon as I got back with Miss Evans and the Blood Diamond, Doc Woodrow rushes up an' tells me he found Warden Jones lyin' on the ground after sumblin' inta town."

"What the hell happened to me?" Sarah hissed as she faced Tennessee "Ya wanna know what the hell happened to me?! I'll tell ya what the hell happened to me! I got attacked is what happened! My convoy got ambushed on the way back ta Iron Rock by a bunch of rats and some bloated armadillo callin' himself Gold-Tooth Tom! While I was dealin' with that little rollin' bastard, the rest of the Rancid Riders came an' set Woolen free, killed my men, and almost killed me too!"

"But they didn't?" Inquired Percy.

"Woolen was plannin' on puttin' a bullet in me, but that armadillo bastard said he wanted ta bring the Riders ta someone called Weasen, so all they did was have me thrown off a cliff. Least I managed to latch my whip onto a rock on the way down."

Tennessee could only gawk at what the vixen told him. "She's just full of surprises…" he thought to himself.

"Wait a minute…" Miss Benson interjected with a look of dread on her face. "You're saying that…the convoy never made it to Iron Rock? But then that means…"

"Ted and the Riders are still out there." Rudy finished in horror. Everyone began uttering gasps and murmurs of concern, terrified by the revelation that the most ruthless gang of crooks to ever terrorize their home were still at large. The only ones who didn't seem fazed by this news were the three men who had left to go after Weasen earlier that day.

"Well, this must be a small world we live in." Sheriff Henderson said finally, catching the confusion of the gathered townsfolk and Iron Rock's warden. "George?" She asked as her brows furrowed in confusion.

"That armadillo ya just described now, Gold Tooth Tom? We just saw him and the Rancid Riders at the Flooded Mine when we were savin' Jessica. If I had ta guess, Weasen must've sent Gold-Tooth out ta-"

"Ahem."

Sheriff Henderson paused upon the mayor's interruption, glancing to the concerned-looking Mayor Evans and then around to see the citizens of Hindus Valley looking even more frightened than they looked before thanks to his accidental revelation.

"Weasen…and the Rancid Riders…They're workin' together?" Stacy whimpered frightfully as her embrace of Percy grew stronger.

"Er…Perhaps it'd be best if we continued this discussion in my office," Mayor Evans declared as he looked over the terrified expressions of his citizens. "Percy, you look like you've been through enough trouble for today. Why don't ya go get that ear looked at an' get some rest? We'll take it from here."

The teenage jackrabbit nodded and began heading off with his younger brother and Stacy in tow, though not before looking back at Tennessee and giving the raccoon a final nod of gratitude and respect, which Tennessee returned with a warm smile.

XXXXXXXXXX

Two minutes later, Tennessee found himself in Mayor Evans' office with the mayor himself, Jessica, Sheriff Henderson, and Warden Jones. After locking the door, Mayor Evans made his way behind his desk and sat down while Jessica sat comfortably on a couch on the right side of the room. "Well, now that we're all here, I'd like to start by commending both Sheriff Henderson and Tennessee for their brave actions today," the mayor began as he turned his direction towards Tennessee, a look of humbled gratitude on his face. "Son, I can't thank you enough for helping return my daughter to me. You're a real hero to me, and to everyone in this valley."

"It was nothin', mayor." Tennessee replied with a smile. His smile dropped, and he looked concerned as he added, "But I think it's too soon to start sayin' trouble's over for Hindus Valley. If Weasen's really workin' with the Rancid Riders like we saw at the mine, I'd say trouble's gonna be comin' for us soon enough."

"Look, I'm sorry if I'm missin' somethin' here, but who the hell's this Weasen fella yer talkin' about?" Warden Jones demanded, not at all fond of being locked out of the loop.

"Weasen Wilson. Some fancy-pants weasel illusionist that came inta town earlier today." Explained Mayor Evans as he fished Weasen's card out of his pocket and handed it to the vixen. "He started pullin' off some magic tricks while his men snuck inside my office an' swiped the Blood Diamond, not ta mention killin' one of the guards I hired for security for Town Hall."

At this last statement, Tennessee glanced down to see blood on the floor of the office, no doubt from the guard that had been killed by Weasen's men.

"If making off with our town's greatest treasure wasn't enough, the son of a bitch went and swiped my daughter. Not ta mention he got a lot of people injured with that damned dynamite trick while he made off with Jessica and the diamond."

"So he got away with both?"

"Unfortunately, he did. Fortunately for us though, George, Tennessee, and Percy were able to find out Weasen was hidin' out in the Flooded Mine and bring both of my precious gems back where they belong." Mayor Evans finished before donning a frown. "The only problem was with the unexpected involvement of the Rancid Riders."

Sarah turned her head towards the raccoon and bloodhound, a slight frown forming on her face. "Ya mean ya figured out where Weasen and the Riders were hidin' and ya didn't try ta bring 'em in?"

"We were there ta rescue a girl and a gem from a buncha conmen and killers, not start a gunfight, Sarah." Sheriff Henderson retorted with a frown of his own. "Our top priority was gettin' back what Weasen stole, an' even if we wanted to arrest them, we were outnumbered and outgunned, so tryin' to arrest 'em woulda been suicide."

"And after what I did to them, I don't think we'll be seein' either Weasen or the Rancid Riders anytime soon," Tennessee added with a smirk.

This statement caused Mayor Evans and Sarah to gaze at the younger raccoon in confusion, with the vixen asking, "Whadaya mean, Cooper?"

"What this crazy son of a bitch means," Sheriff Henderson explained, "is that he went and blew up the dam that made the Flooded Mine get its name an' got himself and the bastards who took Miss Evans and the Blood Diamond swept away down the canyon once the water got free. The rest of us got away, thank God, but I almost got a goddamn heart attack when I saw him jump into that barrel and get swept away by the current." Tennessee could only grin in embarrassment as the Mayor and Warden gaped at him, astonished to hear of the peril he put himself in to make sure that his comrades could escape.

"…Damn," Sarah finally said upon finding her voice. "And here I thought Woolen was a crazy bastard."

"Wait, so Weasen and the Riders got swept away too?" Jessica inquired with a hopeful tone. "Ya think that means they might've all drowned when canyon flooded?"

"I dunno," Tennessee replied with a frown, "I didn't see their bodies anywhere in the water when Percy fished me out, and I don't think it'd be safe ta go back an' see whether or not they're still alive. Fer now, I'd think it'd be safest ta guess they survived and they're still out there somewhere lickin' their wounds until they attack the valley again."

"Which is why I've decided, for yer people's own good Mister Evans, that I'm gonna stay here in Hindus Valley until I get the chance ta bring those assholes down." Sarah declared.

Henderson frowned at this and began to protest, "Warden, while I do appreciate yer intentions, I think we can all-"

"Oh no, don't you start with me George!" Sarah hissed. "My convoy got ambushed, my prisoners escaped, my men were murdered, and I almost fell ta my death today, and when I offer to stay in town for extra protection, ya don't want me here? Just look at yourself, George, yer over fifty years old! Yer hardly the same man ya were when ya started wearin' that badge; these days you can barely protect this town on yer own! I mean I know Tennessee's here ta help keep the peace, but even one raccoon with great aim ain't enough ta protect the people of this valley! So as long as I'm here in this town, I will be in charge of keeping the people livin' here safe!"

Hearing this, Henderson's eyes widened in disbelief. "Warden Jones, ya can't be serious! This here's my town, Sarah! You can't just-"

"Last time I checked, old timer, the title of "Warden" was a higher title than "Sheriff" Sarah interrupted. "I know this ain't my town to patrol, but Woolen escaped under my watch and I'm not plannin' on making that mistake twice! Just keep on doin' what you normally do, George, and I'll make sure to keep the people in this town safe. I assume you'll be assisting us, Mister Cooper?" Sarah turned towards Tennessee, who was leaning against the wall, watching the two law abiding citizens argue.

"You can count on me." Tennessee agreed.

Sarah smirked in approval upon hearing this, then brought her attention back onto Sheriff Henderson. "Believe me George," she concluded as she placed a hand on his shoulder. "This is the best for all of us. I lost good men today to the Rancid Riders, and I'm not ready to see their deaths go unanswered. Until we bring these sons of bitches to justice, you're gonna need all the help you can get.

Realizing that this was an argument he wasn't going to win, Sheriff Henderson sighed in defeat and grumbled, "Well, fine. If Weasen and the Riders are gonna be back at some point, I suppose some extra help wouldn't hurt. But I suggest we make an announcement ta the townsfolk so they know what's gonna be goin' on around here."

"My thoughts exactly!" Agreed Mayor Evans as he stood up from behind his desk and approached the sheriff and prison warden, beginning to escort the three of them out of his office. "We'd best head outside and let everyone know about our current predicament. They may not like it, but they deserve to know the truth."

"Yer right," Sarah agreed as the mayor unlocked the office door. "By the way, ya know of any places I can stay in since I'm not gonna be leavin town for a while?"

"Of course! I'll make sure you're given the most comfortable room our inn has to offer!"

Once the elder raccoon, vixen, and bloodhound had exited the room, Tennessee realized that he was all alone in the mayor's office with the young woman he had just saved. Turning, Tennessee admired the female raccoon as she stared out the body-sized window behind her father's desk that had a beautiful view of the valley. Tennessee, rather awkwardly, made his way over to the couch and sat down next to her, arms folded against his chest. After clearing his throat and catching the female's attention, he finally spoke after what seemed like an eternity.

"Are you okay, Jessica?"

"Huh? O-oh yes, thank you for saving me, Tennessee..." Jessica looked down shyly, fiddling with her thumbs. "It's just...while I was trapped in that mine...I felt so scared…so helpless. Throughout this whole experience today, I've been so scared…I haven't felt so terrified since my mother died." Her eyes began to well up with tears, the horrors that she experienced that day coming back to haunt her as her voice began to quiver. "I-It was…so scary, Tennessee…" she whimpered as she held her arms and quivered. "The Riders…they were so close to me…I-I felt like a m-mouse bein' cornered by a rattlesnake…If you hadn't shown up with the Sheriff and Percy…I…don't know what I'd do…"

Tennessee frowned, scooting closer and wrapping his arms around her torso, pulling her into a tight embrace. Jessica was surprised at first, but after realizing what he was doing, she calmed down and hugged back, melting in his embrace. The male raccoon smelt of the fresh Western air and ashes; a smell that fit him well. She also took note of how warm his body temperature was. Jessica sighed, a small smile forming on her lips.

"Don't you be worryin', Miss Evans," Tennessee said comfortingly as he continued his embrace. "Yer safe now, where those sons of bitches can't hurt ya. And if they try comin' back for ya, all they're gonna get is a face full of bullets from me. If there's anything ya need Jessica, please don't hesitate to ask." Tennessee broke their embrace, much to the displeasure of both raccoons, and placed a hand on her shoulder. "Anything besides carrying your parasol all week, that is."

At hearing this, Jessica couldn't help but let out a small giggle. "Mister Cooper, you flatter me. But I don't think that'll be necessary. We don't need to do anything after our little game today, Tennessee. We can just...continue being who we are, if you know what I mean." She then averted her gaze, a blush coming to her cheeks as a shy yet flirtatious smile spread across her face as she added, "On the other hand…"

Tennessee looked confused at first, but his face morphed into a mask of shock when Jessica leaned over and planted a gentle kiss on Tennessee's cheek. She pulled away, bashfully looking away and saying, "Consider that my thanks for yer bravery and selflessness today, Mister Cooper."

Shakily, Tennessee reached a gloved hand up and gently touched the cheek Jessica had kissed. A grin then spread across his face as he said, "Ya know somethin', Miss Jessica? I think I do know what ya mean..."

The male raccoon then stood up and made his way over to the mayor's desk, pulling out the guest book and crossing his name off. Jessica gasped in worry at this and quickly made her way to the desk, hoping to stop him, only to stop when she saw what he did next. Tennessee managed to find the residents section of the book, and at the next free space, he wrote in his name. Jessica gasped and covered her mouth, looking up at the tall male raccoon who sported a smirk.

"I'm stayin'."

---

~ One Month Later...~

The following month was perhaps the best month of Tennessee's life once he made the decision to stay in Hindus Valley. After the word got out that he was going to be a permanent resident of their community, the citizens of Hindus Valley made sure to make Tennessee feel right at home, which the raccoon felt was a bit much, but he appreciated how grateful the townsfolk were of him risking life and limb to retrieve their valley's founding treasure and their mayor's only child. Furthermore, everyone had gotten the full story about what had occurred during the rescue mission thanks to Rudy hearing of it first and deciding to share the story of his older brother and savior's heroism with the entire valley. Thanks to this knowledge, Tennessee and Percy had become heroes in the eyes of the valley's townsfolk, though Percy would complain how much more Stacy had fallen madly in love with him and was even harder to evade than before.

In spite of having more experience being on the other side of the law, Tennessee quickly got used his new job as Sheriff Henderson's deputy. While the valley had not come under any major criminal attacks since Weasen, the raccoon still did good work in maintaining peace within his new home. Whether it was solving a land dispute between farmers, stopping brawls at the saloon, or chasing down bandits whenever they came into town to cause trouble, Tennessee did a great job in making sure the townsfolk were kept happy and safe. Everyone, namely Warden Jones and Sheriff Henderson, was still worried about when Weasen and Blood Red Ted would stage their next attack on Hindus Valley, but they were comforted by the knowledge the sheriff would be aided by his new deputy and Iron Rock's warden.

Another thing Tennessee grew to appreciate about his new home was his close friendship with the Wilcox brothers. Upon learning Tennessee was going to stay in the valley permanently, the two young jackrabbits eagerly recruited some neighbors to help build a small cabin by the river of Hindus Valley, only a hop and a skip away from where the Wilcox farm was. Whenever he was not on duty as deputy, much of Tennessee's time was spent doing different activities with the Wilcox siblings such as fishing, racing them around the valley on horseback, helping Percy modify his crossbow for when the Rancid Riders came back to terrorize the valley, or simply helping Rudy with his homework. With all the good times they had together, Percy and Rudy had come to consider Tennessee as close to them as family.

But perhaps the best thing that came from Tennessee's choice to remain in Hindus Valley came in the form of Jessica Evans. While the story of his rescue in the Flooded Mine and his everyday acts of compassion earned him the attraction of many of the valley's women, the only lady Tennessee was interested in was the mayor's daughter. And ever since the Flooded Mine escapade, the two raccoons had done all sorts of things together that made them enjoy each other's company more and more. Whether they were having picnics by the river, travelling around on the valley's railroad using Tennessee's rail slide technique, or taking boat rides in the river, Tennessee never tired of being with Jessica. Quite frankly, the outlaw found everything about Jessica wonderful: her kind nature, her eyes and gentle touch, and most especially her laugh, which sounded like the jingling of bells to Tennessee whenever he told her a joke or gave her a playful tickle on her sides or feet whenever he had the chance.

With every day that went by, Tennessee felt he had made one of the best decisions of his life. No longer having to worry about the law catching up to him, the raccoon felt like he was born anew, feeling he had done all he could do to succeed in honoring his family's legacy. Although he had only come to Hindus Valley to enjoy a vacation, all Tennessee could think of now was taking advantage of his chance at a fresh start and enjoy his early retirement. Having taken up thieving since he was eight years old, Tennessee felt he had acquired enough gold back in his old hideout in Cottonmouth Bluff to store away in the Cooper Vault before he could put his criminal career to bed for good. However, Tennessee knew that he would have to postpone that since Weasen and Blood-Red Ted were still out there somewhere and he still had no idea what they were planning to do to the valley or when they were going to do it. So for now, Tennessee remained calm yet vigilant, choosing to enjoy the period of tranquility that had come to the valley but ready to jump into action at a moment's notice.

One of the most memorable moments for Tennessee during this time came during a trip to the town's saloon one Saturday night. As he had been informed by Rudy, that was when the town held their weekly "Square dance Saturday", a night where the people could come together at the saloon for a fun night of good food, dancing, socializing, and drinking. As he entered the building, Tennessee could tell that the younger Wilcox sibling wasn't bluffing as he saw the party in full swing, the sounds of hearty laughter, catchy music, and mugs clinking together greeted his ears. Looking around, he was met with the sight of flappers dancing on a stage near the piano while citizens did their own jigs in the middle of the room, which was turned into a dance floor as the tables and chairs had been moved to make way for the dancers. At this point, one thing was certain to Tennessee: these people loved to party. He then made his way through the crowd of people until he reached the bar, taking a seat on an empty stool next to Mayor Evans.

"Good evening Mister Mayor," greeted the younger raccoon politely, "enjoyin' the party tonight?"

Mayor Evans smiled and patted Tennessee on the shoulder. "Welcome to the party, Tennessee my boy! And happy one month as a resident of our valley!"

"Thank ya sir,"

"So how's our town going for ya? Any differently than when you were on vacation?"

"No sir, in fact, I feel right at home here." Tennessee admitted, earning a hearty chuckle from the older, rounder raccoon.

"I'm glad to hear it, Mister Cooper! Lord knows we're all grateful fer yer decision ta stay here and make sure we're all safe! Well, I need to get back home, but I know my daughter will be stayin' here for a little longer..." he says, empathizing that last part. Tennessee, who was caught blushing, got a chuckle out of the mayor. "By the way Tennessee, I must say I'm impressed by how close ya've gotten with Jessica. Normally, she ain't too fond of most men due ta bein' given the whistles by 'em, but seein' as how gentlemanly you've been ta her since comin' here, I should congratulate you for how far you've gotten with her. Maybe one of these days you could join me and my daughter for dinner at our home? It's the least I can do after ya risked yer life for my daughter's and kept order in our town."

"It'd be an honor, sir."

"Excellent!" Mayor Evans exclaims. "Lord knows Jessica would love that idea! Goodnight, Mister Cooper, and enjoy the party!"

Tennessee nodded, waving to the mayor as he made his exit. After ordering his own drink, a familiar voice met the raccoon's ears. "Hey Tennessee!" He turned to see the source of the voice, Percy, who was rushing towards him in a panic and looking as though he was being chased by something he didn't want to be caught by. "Whatever you do, do not tell her where I am!" Confused, Tennessee watched as the young jackrabbit hid himself away in a nearby barrel, anxiously looking over his shoulder before doing so.

"Percy~!"

The raccoon's confusion evaporated like water on a hot frying pan upon hearing that voice.

Turning, Tennessee watched as Stacy Rivers ran into the saloon, looking around aimlessly. Upon noticing Tennessee at the bar, she made her way over to the raccoon and smiled sweetly. "Excuse me, Mister Cooper," she began as she batted her eyelashes charmingly, "but do you by any chance know the location of my future husband and father of my children?"

Tennessee, trying and failing to hold back his laughter, pointed towards the barrel that his friend had jumped in. Squealing gleefully, Stacy rushed towards the barrel and pulled Percy out, engulfing him in a tight hug.

"Percy Wilcox, where have you been?! I wanna dance! Dance with me!"

"Don't squeeze him too hard!" Tennessee smirked to the smitten female. "Ya still want him to make kids with ya, right?"

Percy, whose face became redder than a tomato, gawked at Tennessee and back at Stacy, who kept smiling seductively at him.

"C'mon Percy, I wanna dance~!"

Tennessee couldn't help but laugh while watching his friend get swept onto the dance floor by the very woman who drove him insane. Meanwhile, on the upper level of the saloon, Jessica Evans sat quietly by herself, doing her own little dance in her chair. The sound of boots echoed as a feminine figure approached her table, and as she looked up, Jessica was greeted by Warden Sarah Jones, carrying two mugs of sarsaparilla.

"Good evening, Warden." Jessica greets politely.

"Miss Evans, you can call me Sarah. I'm off duty at the moment," The vixen replied as she sat down at the table and handed Jessica the other mug. "How are you holding up?"

Jessica smiles. "I'm doing good, thanks for asking. I've really been enjoyin' how calm things have been since Tennessee saved me from the Flooded Mine."

"Well don't get too comfortable. Until Weasen and Blood Red Ted are behind bars, nobody in this town's gonna be safe. Speakin' of which Jessica, I'd like to ask you some questions about this Weasen fella."

"But didn't ya just say you were off duty?" Jessica asked in confusion.

"I may not be patrollin' right now, but that doesn't mean I can't ask questions like this. I'm gonna need a description of the weasel that kidnapped ya. If this bastard's as much trouble as I hear he is, I might as well get some wanted posters of him made so that everyone knows he's a crook."

Nodding, Jessica obliged and began to give the warden the description of the illusionist who had abducted her. As she was finishing, Rudy came running up the stairs, making his way towards the table the two ladies sat at.

"Hello Warden, Jessica!" he sang cheerfully. Rudy then focused his attention onto the female raccoon. "Miss Jessica, Tennessee is here in the saloon! I invited him ta come here fer the party and now he's down at the bar!"

"Wha-he is?" she asked as a blush came to her face.

Smirking, Sarah stood up, taking her mug with her. "Well, I'd best be headin' back to Iron Rock and grab some extra muscle and get those wanted posters made. Thanks for the info, Miss Evans."

Both Rudy and Jessica watched as the warden of Iron Rock made her way down the stairs. Once the vixen was out of their sights, Rudy turned back to Jessica.

"Warden Jones wanted ta ask ya somethin'?"

"Just a description of Weasen so she could get some wanted posters of him made," Jessica replied. "Now what's this about Tennessee bein' here?"

"I invited him here for Square dance Saturday and it looks like he took up my offer!" Rudy grinned. "Figured this'd be somethin' for him to enjoy, along with all the flirtin' the two of you've been doin' this past month!"

Jessica looked taken aback as her cheeks reddened. "U-Us? Flirting?"

"Uh-huh!" Rudy nodded. "And this is a party! Why don't ya go down there with him?"

"It ain't as simple as that, Rudy," remarked a new voice. Jessica and Rudy turned to see Becca approach them from a couple tables over, where Barry, Federico, Chester, and Gordy were sitting while engaged in a game of cards, but were using cookies in place of poker chips.

"Romance is like waitin' for a flower to bloom: it takes time. Something I'm sure Miss Evans is familiar with, with all her reading them romance books and all," the mouse explained as she stopped in front of the jackrabbit and female raccoon.

Jessica had to admit, for small children, Rudy and Becca were smarter than they appeared. It was true though, that for the last month, she and Tennessee would catch themselves enjoying each other's company more and more often. Rumors were going around that Tennessee was courting Jessica, which made both her and the newcomer flustered. They would always run into each other during the morning, evening, and sometimes at night.

"It's been a month since they first met! Not ta mention all those dates they've been on!" Rudy argued at Becca, not noticing Jessica's face grow redder. "I'm pretty sure they've spent enough time together for them to realize this stuff!"

"Tell that to your brother..." Becca deadpanned with a half-lidded expression while pointing downstairs from their balcony.

Looking down, the trio see Percy being thrown around by an uncontrollable Stacy during their one-sided "dance". Jessica couldn't help but giggle at the sight. When it came down to romance, Percy may had to have been the last person to discuss about the subject, not because he had little, if not no experience whatsoever, but because he was terrible with showing affection towards someone he liked. Jessica didn't even want to imagine what would happen if Percy was attracted to another woman, otherwise that woman and the entire valley would suffer Stacy's wrath until their town was no different than a boneyard.

"Hey Rudy!" exclaimed Federico as he and the rest of Rudy's school friends laughed at what was occurring on the saloon's lower levels. "Looks like your hermano's ruling the dance floor! Sure hope
Señorita Rivers doesn't dislocate his arm down there!"

"Aw Percy just needs a push, is all!" Rudy debated, ignoring the Chihuahua's jeers. "He may not realize it now, but someday, he's gonna marry Stacy Rivers!" he then turned towards Jessica. "Just like how you're gonna marry Tennessee, Miss Jessica!"

Jessica gasped at the mention of marriage, her face turning crimson red as she covers her mouth with her yellow-gloved hand. Displeased at this, Becca slapped Rudy aside the head, glaring at him. "You moron!" she hissed. "You can't just say things like that, especially in front of a lady! My mamma says you should never embarrass a lady! Completely ungentlemanly of you!"

"Okay, sorry..." he muttered.

Becca only glared at him. "Don't say sorry to me! Say yer sorry to Miss Evans!"

"Right. Sorry, Miss Jessica..."

Jessica donned a small smile and patted Rudy's head. "It's quite alright Rudy. Just...don't say such things, alright? You'll make me blush redder than a lobster."

Down below, Tennessee's eyes caught on Jessica, admiring the color of the dress she decided to wear for the night: yellow. Such a color made Tennessee feel nostalgic, reminding him of happier, more simple times when he was still a child taking on thieving for the first time with his father by his side. Thinking of that made him hope he could relive those happy memories with his own children. He and Jessica had been growing quite close throughout the month if the other men in Hindus Valley could've given him a trophy for doing they all failed to do, he would've accepted it with pride.

That was when an idea came to the raccoon's head. He had won her over with his charm and the ability to make her smile, but now he'd figured he'd win her over with another talent that the Cooper men have displayed for generations.

Dancing.

With one final gulp of his sarsaparilla, Tennessee made his way to the middle of the dance floor, extending one arm towards Jessica's location of the upper-level, and shouted, "This one's for you, Miss Evans!"

Having caught everyone's attention, especially Jessica's, all eyes came onto Tennessee as he started dancing skillfully. Everyone found this entertaining, clapping along in rhyme as the raccoon kept up to the music. Squealing in delight, Stacy left Percy's side (much to his relief) and rushed upstairs before grabbing Jessica by the arm, despite the latter's protests as she didn't want to be the center of attention. Giving in, Jessica had found herself being dragged downstairs and shoved into the male's raccoon's direction. Smirking, Tennessee caught Jessica and spun her around, dipping her so their faces could finally meet.

"Nice to see you here, Miss Evans."

Blushing, Jessica simply replied. "Likewise, Mister Cooper."

Watching the duo dance encouraged everyone to grab a partner and dance along with them. Everyone was having such a fun time, dancing to the beat of the music and cheering and laughing all the while. In the excitement, Percy finally relented and led Stacy in a dance, much to her unlimited delight. Rudy, amused as ever at what was happening, continued to tease his older brother about his relationship with the female jackrabbit as their dance went on.

Tennessee and Jessica, despite having the dance floor crowed with other people, had their own spot in the center of the dance floor where the observing crowd clapped and stomped along to the beat of the music, encouraging them to keep on going.

"I must say Miss Evans," Tennessee remarked, leading them. "Yer quite the dancer."

"Why thank ya kindly, Mister Cooper. And might I say," she spins and finds herself caught in Tennessee's embrace once more. "You ain't too bad yourself. How'd you learn to dance? Pardon me for sayin' so, but ya don't strike me as the kind of person who dances."

Tennessee shrugged casually. "I dunno, I guess it just comes to me. Whenever I hear music, I can't help but do a little tapping with my feet. Been that way for all of us Cooper men for decades."

"I see," Jessica giggled. "Well, consider yourself a natural, Mister Cooper, because I'm seeing it to believe it!"

As they continued to dance, their audience grew louder and louder. For their final act, Tennessee threw Jessica up in the air, allowing her to spin before he caught her. They did a spin together, and finally, he dipped her, their noses touching. Everyone applauded as the music came to a stop. Both raccoons stared into each other's eyes, seeing something in them that they both desire: love. Slowly, the gap between their lips began to disappear as they leaned closer and closer to each other until-

"AHH! MY DRESS!"

The moment was suddenly and inappropriately interrupted for the raccoons as soon as the shocked feminine scream met their ears. Turning their heads, they saw the scream came a shocked-looking female sheep standing in front of a ram holding two mugs of beer in each hoof.

"You jackass!" A new voice shouted, and everyone watched as another ram angrily stormed over to stand by the ewe while glaring at the mug-holding ram. "My wife bought that dress just this afternoon! You have any clue as ta how much we had ta save up to afford that?!"

"Hey! She bumped into me first! Now she owes me some fresh drinks!"

"Oh, so yer thirsty, then? How about some PUNCH?!" The second ram shouted before smashing his clenched fist into the other ram's face, making him drop his mugs and stumble backwards. Angered at the attack, the assaulted ram charged at his assailant and knocked him into some of the other bar patrons, who were none too happy about what was going on. It wasn't long before a full-out riot broke out, with people angrily attacking each other and forgetting about the fun time they were having minutes before.

One patron was so caught up in the violence that he didn't care who he hit, and his fist summarily connected with the face of a certain teenage jackrabbit who was knocked onto his back with fresh black eye.

"PERCY!" Stacy shrieked in alarm as she knelt down to tend to her love's injury. Her expression turned from concern to fury as she whipped her head at the attacker and shrieked, "YOU BASTARD! YOU KNOCKED OUT MY FUTURE HUSBAND!"

As the livid female jackrabbit pounced on Percy's assailant, Tennessee and Jessica quickly made their way out of the chaos and into the town's main square. Both looked back at the saloon in worry and dismay of how quickly the violence escalated, as well as disappointment at how their kiss was interrupted.

"Goddman," Tennessee muttered. "Who woulda thought such a fun night would lead ta that?"

"Never mind that!" Jessica fretted as she gazed back into the saloon. "Percy, Rudy, and Stacy are still in there! And so are the other kids from the schoolhouse! Tennessee, ya have to back in there an' make sure they don't get hurt!"

"No need for that!"

The two raccoons watched as Rudy dragged his still-unconscious sibling outside by his ankles, his friends not far behind as Barry helped carry Percy out by carrying him by the arms.

"Well, that certainly escalated rápido," Federico remarked dryly. "One minute everyone's dancing and having a great time, and the next minute they're all trying to murder each other."

"This town really has a problem," added Barry as he and Rudy set Percy down. "All this anxiety about the Riders bein' loose really ain't good for anyone."

"So are ya gonna go back in there ta break up the violence, Deputy Cooper?" Asked Becca. "I don't really wanna wake up tomorrow and find out someone got put in a pine box from all that fightin'."

"No need to," Sheriff Henderson commented as he approached the group. "I'll go in there an' make sure everyone gets ta their senses, I gave Deputy Cooper the day off." He then glanced down at Percy, who had regained consciousness and was nursing his injured eye.

"On the other hand, Tennessee, maybe it's best if ya get Percy on home. Boy looks like he's had enough trouble for one night."

Nodding, Tennessee picked up Percy and slung him over his shoulder. "Goodnight kids, Sheriff, Jessica." Tennessee said, though it was mostly directed towards the latter. "In spite of how it ended, I'd say this was quite the fun night, especially with all that dancin' we did together." At this last bit, he sent a charming smile towards Jessica, who blushed and looked away shyly yet happily. "Sure hope we can do this again sometime. Goodnight."

And with that, Tennessee turned around and began carrying Percy back in the direction of the Wilcox farm with Rudy walking beside him and bidding farewell to his friends. Said friends began to depart home in different directions for the night while Sheriff Henderson entered the saloon to end the chaos inside. This left Jessica standing alone in the town's square, longingly gazing at Tennessee's retreating form.

"We were so close…" She muttered wistfully as she recalled how close she and Tennessee were to kissing.

"Oh pooh! Where'd he run off to now?!"

Jessica turned her attention towards a frazzled-looking Stacy, who was looking around aimlessly in hopes of finding the object of her affections.

"Hello Stacy," Jessica greeted politely. "If you're lookin' fer Percy, I'm sorry to say that Tennessee's already takin' him and Rudy home for the night."

"Aw fiddlesticks!" Stacy pouted as she walked over towards her friend. "We were the king and queen of the dance floor in there! I could almost taste his lips on mine! So much for a romantic night out…"

"Well, if it makes ya feel any better, you're not the only one here who's disappointed about what happened tonight," Jessica mumbled comfortingly yet sadly. A sly grin came to Stacy's face as she said, "Oh I think I know what you mean. You and Deputy Cooper, am I right?"

Looking at her friend in silent surprise for a moment, Jessica sighed and asked, "How'd ya know?"

"Please, after all those dates the two of you've been on, you'd have to be blind as an earthworm or dumb as a sack of hair ta not see there's love between the two of you."

"Well that's the easy part," Jessica replied with a frown, "The problem here is neither of us wanna have a tequila bottle thrown at us while we're in the middle of a romantic night on the town. What can I do, Stacy?"

Furrowing her brows and tapping her chin in contemplation, a look of inspiration then came to the female rabbit's face. "Well," she began with a smile, "if it were me tryin' ta have a romantic evening with my Percy, I'd go with a candlelit dinner by the riverside. A beautiful view of the moon as fireflies buzz around us." A dreamy look came to her face as she continued, "And when our dinner's finished, he'll drop down on one knee and present me with an engagement ring and ask: "Stacy Rivers, will you be my wife?"

As she stifled a giggle at her friend's daydreaming, an idea came to Jessica upon thinking over the prospect of a candlelit dinner by the riverside. "Ya know Stacy," she began thoughtfully, "I think ya might be on ta somethin' there…"

XXXXXXXXXX

Around noon the following day, Tennessee came through the front entrance of the Wilcox farm on his horse, whistling a cheerful tune. After he had brought Rudy and Percy home after the debacle at the saloon the night before, the younger rabbit invited him over for lunch, which Tennessee happily accepted after learning Sheriff Henderson had no assignments for him that day.

"Howdy, Tennessee!"

He turned his head over to see Rudy setting up some bowls and napkins on a nearby picnic table, happy to see his savior and friend. Also seated at the table was an elderly male jackrabbit wearing brown pants, a plaid shirt, and a pair of glasses over his eyes, which Tennessee identified as Grandpa Jack Wilcox.

"Say Grandpa! Tennessee's here ta have lunch with us!"

"What's that Rudy?" The older jackrabbit wheezed, turning over to see the approaching raccoon deputy coming his way.

"Oh, Deputy Cooper! What a surprise! Rudy, go get Mister Cooper a plate, he might wanna have lunch with us!"

"Already ahead of it, Grandpa," Rudy replied, having long grown used to his grandfather's senility as Tennessee sat down. He then shot the raccoon a smirk.

"So Tennessee, last night I couldn't help but see how much fun you were havin' last night with Miss Jessica. Too bad that fight broke out though, I woulda loved ta see what might've happened between you two."

"Well, I just gotta keep positive, Rudy," Tennessee replied. "Sooner or later, I'll get my chance with Jessica, and hopefully it'll be without worryin' about someone tryin' ta smash a chair against me like last night."

"Oh, please don't bring that up."

Tennessee and Percy's heads turned to see a tired-looking Percy exit the farmhouse with a plate of sandwiches and walk towards them. Clearly, he had not slept well after the bar brawl and the black eye he sported did not seem to be getting better.

"Not holdin' up well since last night, are ya Percy?" Tennessee remarked in mild amusement but mostly concern for his friend.

"You can say that again. If I'd known I'd get flung around the place by Stacy and have the daylights knocked outta me, I woulda just stayed home."

"Aw, lighten up, brother," Rudy said as Percy set a sandwich onto the plate in front of him. "Ya know Stacy can't help that she finds ya irresistible, I think the problem's just that ya don't know a thing about courtin' a lady. But maybe Tennessee can help ya, what with all those dates he's been on with Miss Evans."

"Well, I wouldn't call them dates per-say…" Tennessee added sheepishly as he bit into his own sandwich.

"Really? From what I've seen, you two have been gettin' real friendly with each other lately, ever since ya rescued her from the Flooded Mine. And I mean really friendly with each other."

"Well, it's nothin' too serious yet, she's just been glad ta have my company. I'm just waitin' for the right time when she and I can have some time fer ourselves. Without the chance of a fight breakin' out."

"I'm sure you'll get yer chance with Jessica, Tennessee," Percy smiled encouragingly. "Me on the other hand? I don't' know if I'll ever have a chance with Stacy. I know she loves me and all, but every time she sees me, she comes chargin' at me like a runaway locomotive! Not ta mention that stunt she pulled on me at the Town fair. What am I supposed ta do?"

Tennessee was about to answer when he and the Wilcoxes heard the sound of approaching footsteps, and they turned to see a well-dressed stork making his way over towards Tennessee.

"Deputy Cooper, I presume?" The bird asked upon stopping before the perplexed Tennessee.

"The one and only. What can I do ya for?"

The stork then presented the raccoon with an envelope, which Tennessee accepted and opened before reading the letter inside.

"What's it say?" Rudy asked and leaned over the table to try catching a glimpse of the letter's contents.

"Dear Mister Cooper," Tennessee began reading aloud. "After hearing of your chivalry in ensuring my daughter safely got out of that bar fight at the saloon last night, I would like to invite you to join me and Jessica tonight for dinner at our mansion. Jessica seemed quite eager at the prospect of you dining with us, and I think we both know how appealing dining with my daughter sounds to you. So if you're interested at all, please let Billsworthy know after you're done reading this letter that you're interested in joining us tonight, and I'll expect to see you between six-thirty and seven o'clock with a seat at the dinner table waiting for you. Best wishes, Mayor Bill Evans."

Putting the letter down, Tennessee's eyebrows were raised high on his forehead as he let the newfound information sink in. He looked around, seeing Percy looking just as amazed as he was, Rudy donning a delighted grin, Grandpa Jack asleep resting his head on his sandwich like a pillow, and Billsworthy the stork patiently awaiting a response from him.

Glancing back at the letter one last time, a grin came to Tennessee's face as he made his decision.

"Billsworthy, right? You can go ahead an' tell Mayor Evans that I'll be seein' him and Jessica tonight. Just need ta get me a suit, and I'll be there."

"Very good, Deputy Cooper. I will make sure to inform the Master Evans posthaste. Good day."

And with that, the stork turned around, spread his wings and flew away to leave the raccoon and rabbits to their thoughts. Rudy was the first to break the silence as he grinned, "Well, how do ya like that? Seems like Lady Luck's decided ta give you a chance at a tender moment with Miss Jessica, Tennessee!"

"Sure does look that way, doesn't it?" Percy added. "But this sounds like it's gonna be one of those fancy-pants dinners and I'm not sure if Tennessee packed a suit with him."

"Well, that's nothin' a trip ta town won't fix!" The raccoon grinned as he pocketed the letter and grabbed his gun. "Anyone up for a trip ta the tailor shop?"

"Is the sky blue? Of course we are! Come on Percy, we gotta help Cinderella here get ready for the ball!"

---

A few hours later, the sun was beginning to set behind the mountains of Hindus Valley as the sky became a beautiful blend of yellow and orange. At the same time Tennessee was riding Dash over to the Evans residence, both apprehensive and eager of what was awaiting him. In place of his usual attire, he wore a dark brown coat over a tan-colored waistcoat, a white button up shirt, and a black bow tie. He had also wearing a pair of classy-looking white gloves instead of his usual brown ones but had kept his hat with him, though he was careful not to let it mess up his combed hair.

Soon enough, the Evans home itself came into view and Tennessee grinned at the sight before him. The Evans manor was an impressive white two-story mansion that was supported by several white pillars. He could also see that there were vines growing on certain parts of the house, some growing around the supporting pillars and others growing near the windows on the second level of the mansion. As his gaze shifted downwards, he saw the path before him led to a small bridge running over a pond that led to the mansion's front lawn. He also realized he could see

"Well Dash," Tennessee told his horse as he straightened his tie and brandished a rose he had brought with him for Jessica, "we'd best not keep the Mayor and Jessica waitn'."

He rode over the bridge to the front of the mansion, hopped off his horse and ascended the front steps of the mansion's porch, then used the knocker on the front door to announce his presence. It wasn't long before the door was opened by a familiar stork butler Tennessee had seen earlier that day.

"Ah, Deputy Cooper," Billsworthy greeted, "good to see you here, Master Evans was just speaking about you. Please, come inside."

Tennessee obliged and entered the mansion, taking a moment to look around the building's interior, which looked even more glamorous than it looked on the outside. In the center of the room was a large grand staircase that led to the second floor of the mansion, and behind the staircase was a wall that had an archway on both sides. From what little he could see in the rooms, the left one seemed to lead to the house's kitchen while the one on the right seemed to lead to the library/study.

"Tennessee, my boy! Glad you're finally here!"

The young raccoon turned to see Mayor Evans emerge from the kitchen with open arms and a welcoming grin on his face. Following him was a short, plump, grey-furred female rabbit wearing a traditional black and white housemaid's uniform, though her sleeves were rolled up and there were visible fresh food stains on her apron.

"Glad I could make it, Mister Mayor!" Tennessee grinned back as he shook the older raccoon's hand. "I gotta this is one fine home ya have here. Guess power certainly has its privileges."

"Thank you kindly, Tennessee. This here mansion of ours has been home to the Evans family ever since the founding of Hindus Valley. But there's no need for such formalities in my own home, you can just call me Bill."

The female rabbit then cleared her throat before Mayor Evans spoke, "Oh, but where are my manners?" before standing aside and gesturing towards the rabbit. "Tennessee, I'd like to introduce you to Laura, my housekeeper and one of my closest friends. While I'm out every day runnin' the valley, she and Billsworthy here are what keeps our home in tip top condition. There's nobody I'd rather have as a housekeeper."

"Aw, stop it Bill, yer gonna make me blush," Laura scolded playfully before extending an arm to offer Tennessee a handshake.

"So you're the Tennessee Kid Cooper I've been hearin' so much about? Sure is a pleasure ta finally meet the man who risked his life ta save Jessica from that Weasen bastard and who's been helpin' out Sheriff Henderson! I hope yer hungry, cuz I've made a meal tonight fit fer a hero like you!"

"Pleasure's all mine, ma'am," Tennessee smiled and shook Laura's hand. "But I wouldn't call myself a hero, just someone with a conscience who can't stand ta see somethin' bad happening to a lady like Miss Evans."

"Well, either way, Jessica's been awfully excited about you comin' here ta dine with us tonight," Mayor Evans remarked. "Speakin' of which, where is she?"

"Coming, daddy!"

Tennessee turned to the direction Jessica's voice had come from…and immediately felt his jaw lower and his eyebrows raise in unison. Descending from the staircase was none other than Jessica Evans wearing a beautifully slim yet puffy white dress with a light blue ribbon around its waist. Just like her usual dresses, this one reached the floor and had a pair of matching white gloves. Jessica's hair was also in a bun, allowing her ears to be exposed, which displayed a pair of white pearl earrings.

Reaching the bottom of the staircase, a flirtatious smile donned Jessica's features as she observed Tennessee's awestruck expression. "Evenin' Mister Cooper," she began coyly, "sorry I wasn't down ta welcome ya formally, but I wanted to make sure I looked my best for our dinner."

Jessica then leaned close to the blushing Tennessee, fluttering her eyelashes as she asked, "Ya like my dress?"

"I…Well…Um…"

"Now, now, reign it in there, Jessica honey," Mayor Evans chided with a smile. "Tennessee here's our guest, and it's impolite to embarrass a guest."

"Oh, fiddlesticks Daddy, Tennessee doesn't seem to mind it. And if dinner's not gonna be ready for a couple minutes, maybe I can show him around our home?"

Tennessee managed to regain his composure and grinned, "That's a great idea! I've never been in a place as nice as this, and it'd be a crime fer me not ta see the whole manor!"

He then held out his hand, asking chivalrously, "Shall we?"

"Lets!"

Beaming, Jessica took Tennessee by the hand and led him upstairs while Mayor Evans and Laura looked on with smiles.

"They sure are quite the match, ain't they Laura?"

"Couldn't agree more, sir," she agreed. "Almost reminds me of another pair of raccoons who were in love."

A sudden feeling of wistfulness came over the older raccoon as he realized who Laura was referring to. "Yeah," he sighed, "I know what you mean."

XXXXXXXXXX

"Now this has got to be the fanciest home I've ever been in!" Tennessee whistled, glancing around as he and Jessica walked down the hallway of the manor's second story. "Sure must me nice ta live in a place like this, eh Jessica?"

The she-raccoon giggled in agreement. "Oh, it certainly has its perks. You should see the parties we throw here during the fourth of July! There's great food, wonderful music, folks get ta sing, and dance, and swim and…oh damn it!"

Jessica donned an annoyed frowned as she looked in a small mirror hanging from one of the hallway's walls. "I forgot my favorite hairpin!" She complained before heading towards the door that led to her bedroom. "Tennessee, would ya mind waiting out here for a minute while I find my hairpin? I'll be out as soon as I can."

The male raccoon smiled calmly and opened the door to her room before saying, "Take yer time, I won't be goin' anywhere."

Jessica donned a grateful smile and stepped into the room. Tennessee closed the door, careful not to make too much noise and risk having Jessica catching him peeking into a lady's room. With a sigh, he turned around, only to trip over a bump on the rug underneath him, and crash into the door across the hallway. Tennessee didn't dare to make a sound, only listening for any conversation from downstairs. Before he could get up, the raccoon's hand slipped enough for the handle to turn, and with the weight of his body, he stumbled into the unknown room.

"Damnit," Tennessee cursed under his breath, steadying himself. However, the sight of the room before him was enough to make the accident turn into curiosity and wonder.

The room that he was standing in was dark, the only light source coming from the sunset at the uncurtained window. There was a queen-sized bed on the far right of the room, the headboard up against the wall, and the sheets were made. Some knickknacks were dormant to the room as well, like a small dollhouse accompanied by a set of old dolls. There was also a floor-length mirror at the corner of the room, on Tennessee's side. Between him and the mirror, was a dresser, which looked just as dusty as any of the other furniture in the room.

What stood out to Tennessee the most, though, was the vanity right next to the left side of the window. There was a portrait standing straight-up on the vanity, surrounded by small lit candles and rose petals surrounding them. When Tennessee approached the vanity, he was able to make-out the portrait. It was a portrait of a female raccoon with light brown fur and brown eyes. To Tennessee, she looked like an older version of Jessica. After studying the portrait and candles further, realization began to show itself on Tennessee's face.

Before he could turn around and leave, a soft voice was heard from the doorway. "Tennessee?" the male raccoon looked up at the vanity's mirror, spotting Jessica at the doorway, looking at him with curiosity. "What are you doing in here?"

Tennessee turned around, almost lost for words. "Jessica! I'm sorry for intruding, I'll make my leave now, it-"

"There's no need for that," Jessica assured, stepping into the room, looking around as if she were lost. "I...I haven't been in this room in years. It's..." she stops when she sees the dollhouse and a small smile appears on her face. "I...I remember these old things!" Tennessee watched as she approached the dollhouse and picked up two dolls. "These were my dolls! Oh, how I loved playing with them! How we loved- Oh..." Jessica stops herself, a frown appearing on her face as if all the energy had been stripped from her.

Tennessee frowned, his brows furrowing. "Jessica..." he motioned to the portrait. "Is this...?"

Jessica nodded, getting up while placing the dolls back where she got them. "This was my parents' old bedroom, Tennessee. That lady in the portrait there, that's my mother."

"Your mother..." Tennessee repeated, looking back at the portrait. "Well, she looks just like you, Jessica. Really pretty. What's her name?"

"Thank you," Jessica makes her way to Tennessee's side, looking blankly at the portrait. "Jane, Tennessee, her name was Jane. She was a ray of sunshine in our lives, Tennessee. If it weren't for her, I wouldn't be here today."

"Sheriff Henderson said that Blood-Red Ted-" Tennessee stopped himself, realizing what a mistake he was making. He studied Jessica's facial and body language, and he confirmed that this was a sensitive subject. "I'm...I'm sorry, Jessica, I shouldn't-"

"It's fine, Tennessee, it's fine, really." Jessica reassured, slowly walking to the window, leaning against it as she stared at a large tree in the backyard, right by the river. "What she did was selfless, Tennessee, and I can never let that act go from my mind. God, I loved her so much; she was my sunshine when I was a little girl. I...I can never forget the last day we spent together..."

Tennessee said nothing, watching as Jessica's face let out a small smile, remembering the past. "I was eleven years old, and we spent the day together while Daddy was working. She was sitting with her back against that tree, and I was sitting in her lap. She was reading to me - I loved it when she did, because she's the one who taught me how to read and write. The sun was shining, the breeze was so gentle, and the water was bright and shiny-like, reflecting almost anything that came into it's view. It was a perfect day. And then..." Jessica's smile dropped. "Then that night, after I'd woken up, I smelt smoke. I quickly ran out of my room and downstairs, and saw the whole town being set ablaze! My mother found me, and told me to hide at our tree, so I did. Blood-Red Ted found me, and he was going to...to kill me. He almost succeeded, if it hadn't been for my mother."

A gulp escaped Tennessee's mouth. "What...what happened?"

Jessica shook her head, her eyes shut tight as tears begin to go down her face. "My mother got in front of me, in front of Ted's claws, and got slashed across the chest! Her blood ran into the riverbank below the hill. I ran, hoping it was some sort of nightmare, but it wasn't! When I looked back, that monster, he...he was eating her corpse! He began chasing after me, but was force to retreat when Sheriff Henderson and his deputy at the time found him. That was the last time I saw Blood-Red Ted as a child, and now..." she began to whimper. "That monster is at large again. My mother's murderer is-"

Jessica suddenly found herself in Tennessee's embrace. "I'm terribly sorry to hear that, Jessica. You must've been so frightened; no one should endure that. But if it helps, I understand how you feel. Yer not the only one in the room who's had to watch a loved one die."

Jessica didn't say anything, listening to Tennessee's story as she rested her head against Tennessee's chest. "I was thirteen-years-old when my father was hung. He told me to hide too, and I was able to see everything. A group of men captured and hung him, leaving me homeless. Since then, I was out on my own."

"Why?" Jessica sniffed. "Why would someone do that sort of thing to another? Why did your father die like that?"

Tennessee, careful not to give the truth away about his family's history, replies, "Because some people just want to watch the world burn. And to do that, they'll kill whoever they can get their hands on. I'm sorry about your mother, Jessica."

"And I'm sorry about your father, Tennessee." Jessica pulled herself away from Tennessee's embrace, looking up at him. "Guess we have something else in common, huh?"

"I guess so," Tennessee smiled.

Jessica smiles back. "How do you do it, Tennessee? How do you become the sunlight in everyone else's cloudy day?"

"Because I care for others," Tennessee began. "Because I don't wanna lose another loved one, and me going after Weasen and Blood-Red Ted will ensure that."

Jessica, in response, approaches Tennessee while wrapping her arms around his neck. Getting the message, Tennessee wraps his own arms around Jessica's waist and leans his head down. Before the two could have their lips meet, the sound of someone clearing their throat came from the doorway. The two raccoons stop, turning to see Laura standing there, a soft smile on her lips.

"I hate to interrupt, but I'd like to inform you that dinner is served."

Blushing, the two raccoons leave the room, Laura following suit after closing the door with a sigh.

---

"Find everything ya need, Sheriff?"

Sheriff Henderson smiled at the pig addressing him from behind the general store counter. "Have everything I need, Albert," he replied, "just needed some more bullets for my gun. Lord knows I'll need 'em next time the Riders come around.

The mention of the Rancid Riders made Albert shudder. "Hopefully that time isn't soon, lord knows nobody'll be happy when they come back. Last thing anyone'll do fer them is throw a welcome back party."

"All they're gonna be gettin' is a bullet between the eyes if they try anything ta hurt my people. Good night, Al. Sleep tight."

Nodding farewell to the porcine shopkeeper, Sheriff Henderson exited the building and began walking back to the jail to get some sleep. He was hallway across the town's square when his ears picked up the faintest of sounds coming from town hall. Frowning in suspicion, he brandished his pistol and made his way to the building's front door.

Once he was inside, the canine lawman was greeted with darkness. The only source of light in the lobby came from the moon as its light shone through the windows facing the town's square. As he squinted his eyes, Sheriff Henderson was able to make out a figure sitting behind the building's main desk with his feet propped up in relaxation.

"Excuse me," the Sheriff began as he started making his way towards the desk. "Town Hall is closed right now, whatever business you've got here's gonna have ta wait until tomorrow morning."

The stranger did not reply, causing Henderson to frown. "Are yer ears broken?! I said ya can't be in here past business hours!"

There was a brief pause of silence…Then a low, menacing chuckle emanated from the figure, who held up a match and spoke in a voice both familiar and wholly unwelcome to Sheriff Henderson.

"Oh I don't think this'll take too much time…" He replied before swiping the match across the desk to ignite it, and Sheriff Henderson gasped to see the familiar murderous grin of Blood Red Ted illuminated by the match's flame. "…Sheriff"

Immediately Sheriff Henderson began to raise his pistol, only to feel a strong pair of arms pull him into a bear hug from behind as something else wrapped itself around his neck, making him drop his gun.

"Uh-uh-uh..." Grinned Rattlin' Ray as he tightened his coils around the lawman's neck. "We don't want ya causing any ruckus."

"Damn right," Ted quipped as he hopped over the desk while the rest of the Rancid Riders and a familiar bowler-hat wearing armadillo emerged from the shadows.

"Excellent work gentlemen," Gold Tooth Tom commented, "Now to the Blood Diamond. Vincent, William, if you please."

Sheriff Henderson fumed as the armadillo, Gila monster, and vulture began ascending the staircase that led to the mayor's office. "You bastards lay one finger on that diamond and I'll-Ugh!"

The dog suddenly felt the wind get knocked out of him as Ted bashed him in the stomach, making him double over coughing before he was thrown to the floor.

"Never mind them, Sheriff," Ted sneered as he approached the downed bloodhound. "You should be more worried about what I owe ya ever since you locked me away in that cell underground."

Rolling onto his stomach, Henderson did not reply as he shot a hateful scowl up at the coyote outlaw who kicked him in the ribs hard enough to break a couple. The dog was then seized by his throat and lifted up to eye level with Ted.

"You remember, don't ya Sheriff? All those times you came down there ta gloat an' insult me...Course I also haven't forgotten how ya managed ta get the drop on me."

Ted then head-butted Sheriff Henderson in the face, breaking the latter's nose before throwing him to the ground once again.

"I was just in the middle of peaceful nighttime ride, lookin' over the valley an' admiring the farmhouse I set on fire with the family still sleepin' inside," Ted recollected with a fond smile. But it was short-lived as a bitter scowl donned his features. "But then you came ta ruin my fun, chasin' me down and fightin' me man to man. I woulda killed ya right there if that pussycat deputy of yours hadn't snuck up an' shot me in the leg. But at least I got ta have a nice meal from his corpse before you locked me away! Keepin' me in the dark like some damn mushroom with only rocks and bugs ta keep me company!"

He kicked the Sheriff in the jaw, knocking out a couple of teeth before hoisting him up by the shirt. "On the other hand, all that time alone did give a lotta time ta figure out how I'd pay ya back for lockin' me up."

"So what then?" asked Sheriff Henderson as he spat out some blood. "Ya came here ta steal the Blood Diamond and gloat before killin' me?"

"Kill ya? Nah," Ted replied with a sadistic smile, "A quick death is too good for ya. I wanna make sure ta savor every sweet second I push ya closer ta enterin' the next world. But at least you'll get ta see that bitch warden friend of yours, and later that damn deputy once me and Weasen are through with him."

Despite his pain and the severity of the situation, Sheriff Henderson managed a defiant chuckle at his attacker. "You ignorant fuck," he rasped at Ted's confused face. "After almost gettin' drowned at the mind I thought y'all learned a lesson about Mister Cooper. Guess yer too insane or too stupid ta realize that 'coon can take fifty of you bastards down and live ta tell the tale."

He then paused to let out a pained cough and continued, "And Warden Jones? Yer boys must've done a shit job dealin' with her seein' how she's still alive and ready ta bury her boot into yer gang's collective ass."

"What?!" Snarled Ted. "That ain't possible! I had that slut vixen thown into a canyon! She should be vulture shit by now!"

"Well, I guess that's what ya get fer not checkin' ta see if the deed is done asshole!"

With all his strength, Henderson delivered a strong headbutt to Ted's forehead, making him release the sheriff and stumble back in a daze. Seeing their leader attacked made the Riders spring into action against the bloodhound. Ray sprung forward and coiled around Henderson's neck and prepared a venomous bite, but the sheriff acted fast and bit him first before throwing him aside.

Lou charged towards Henderson in hopes of impaling him on his horns only for the dog to dodge him and make the bull crash into the front desk. As Sheriff Henderson was about to grab ahold of his pistol, the sound of Lou charging caught his attention. With one quick leap, he was able to avoid the charging Rider.

"Oh booooys!" sung Gold-Tooth Tom as he, along with the two missing Rancid Riders appeared at the top of the staircase. "We've got the- what the hell?!"

The trio watched as Sheriff Henderson puts up a fight. "Should we do somethin'?"

"What do you think, Gold-Tooth?!" snarls Blood-Red Ted. "Shoot the damn mutt!"

Not wanting to displease his leader, Quickshot Vince brandished a pistol and fired at the old dog's shoulder. Crying out in pain and stumbling around, the Sheriff then felt a fist connect with his jaw as he was punched back into the open arms of Lou.

"Well, that was a minor setback," Tom commented casually as he, Boot Hill Bill, and Vince descended from the stairway as Henderson struggled in Lou's grasp. "But what's important now is that we have the Blood Diamond. Lets go, Ted!"

"Not yet!" Blood-Red Ted approaches the wounded hound. "I wanna have what I came for: my revenge!"

"What are you talking about?" Tom demanded with a frown. "We have what we came here for, so let's get out of here before someone else hears what's going on!"

"Oh no," Ted disagreed with a menacing leer towards Sheriff Henderson. "We ain't just here ta steal the Blood Diamond, we're gonna leave a little message for that ringtailed varmit."

Tom's frown of annoyance shifted into a look of discomfort. "You...you don't mean ta kill the sheriff, do you?"

"What's the big deal?" Ted asks with annoyance. "Don't tell me ya a killin' virgin."

"No, it's just…" Tom paused as he swallowed a bit of bile in his throat. "We're in deep enough already with what we've done, but...killing a lawman?"

"Precious," Ted says in response, brining his attention back onto Sheriff Henderson. "Now...how should I do it? Gut you like a fish? Burn your face off? Ah, the hell with it! How about I just eat you alive?"

"Ted," Tom interrupted, now looking even more anxious, "We don't have time for this, Weasen sent us to get the diamond and get out, that's all!"

"Oh, piss off!" Ted snarled at the armadillo. "Don't tell us yer startin' ta go soft on us, are ya Gold Tooth?"

"No, it's just…" Tom struggled, "With the laws we've broken already, I don't wanna think about gettin' hanged if we're charged with Killin' a lawman! Hurtin' normal people is one thing, but nobody's gonna show mercy ta a crook who sent a sheriff ta the grave!"

Having enough of Tom's annoyance, Ted sends a sharp glare at his men. "Boys, get him outta here! I'll meet ya outside as soon as I'm done with this sorry excuse of a sheriff!"

As soon as his men had ushered the armadillo away, Ted gained a contemplative look as he turned back to Sheriff Henderson.

"Well, lucky fer you, Sheriff, I don't think I'll make this too long since I've got an employer waitin' on us."

"How cute…" Henderson chuckles. "The vicious Blood-Red Ted has become some conman's bitch. And here I thought you didn't take any orders." Noticing Ted's glare, the hound continued. "I mean, what did Weasen do ta convince ya to become his little errand boy, huh? Rub yer belly? Give ya a doggy treat?"

"He promised me a king's ransom and all the freedom ta kill whoever I want once his plan goes through, that's what!"

"Peh," Sheriff Henderson mocks. "I've seen children make better offers than him. Trust me, Ted, being Weasen's lapdog ain't gonna end well. If anything, yer just another audience for him to swindle."

A warning growl escapes Ted's throat as Lou, still holding onto Sheriff Henderson, stiffens with fear, as he knew to never anger his boss. "I'm serious! You think you've won, Ted? Tennessee Cooper is one hell of a man, and Warden Jones? She's every criminal's worst nightmare! Face it, Ted: they ain't afraid of you!"

Cracking his knuckles, Ted replied, "Oh I think they might be once they see what I've done to ya." He then leaned in close to whisper in the dog's ear. "I just need you alive long enough ta make sure they know what the hell's in store for 'em"

Sheriff Henderson had no time to reply as Ted began his brutal beatdown of the elderly sheriff, cherishing every agonized scream that echoed off the walls of Town Hall.

---

"Sweet mother of God, this is delicious!" Tennessee grinned as he bit into the slice of tri-tip roast on his fork. Ever since dinner had started, he was been all too pleased with the feast Laura had prepared for them, consisting of a tri-tip steak, steaming mashed potatoes, sautéed carrots, garlic bread, and a salad. It was by far the best dinner Tennessee had eaten in his life.

"The two of you sure are lucky ta have someone like Laura ta make yer meals for ya," Tennessee remarked lightheartedly to the other two raccoons seated at the outdoor table on the patio behind the Evans' mansion. "If bein' a civic leader means yer this well-fed, where do I sign up?"

Mayor Evans let out a heart-felt chuckle as he reaches for his wine glass, Laura coming around the table to pour him another drink. "Thank you kindly, Mister Cooper." Laura nods, finishing with Mayor Evans' glass.

"Laura's meals are the highlight of my day," Agrees the mayor. "She takes great pride in cooking, especially baking. I live for her pies!"

Laura blushes. "Aw, Master Evans..."

"It's true!" Jessica exclaims, turning to Tennessee. "She baked one tonight, actually! Hope you like apple, Tennessee, because that's her specialty!"

"Who doesn't like apple?" Tennessee asks rhetorically. "It was my favorite growing up. My pa would always bring one home whenever he could."

"Well I doubt he brought home any that are as good as the ones Laura makes. Every time we invite the townsfolk over for our annual Fourth of July celebration, her pies are the one thing folks just can't get enough of!"

"Oh, stop it, y'all are gonna make me blush," Laura chided playfully. She then saw Tennessee's wine glass getting low and began to move towards him refill it.

"Oh Laura?" Jessica asked politely as she reached out towards the bottle, though her eyes wandered towards Tennessee. "Why don't ya let me give Mister Cooper some more wine? Maybe you could go check on how the pie is comin' along?"

Confused, Laura halted and eyed Jessica, trying to decipher what the young female raccoon was doing until she received a knowing look from the latter. Smirking, Laura reluctantly handed Jessica the wine bottle as she retreated back to the kitchen.

"Thank you," Tennessee nodded, smiling as Jessica pours the wine.

"No Tennessee, thank you..." Jessica then leaned close to Tennessee's ear. "I really do mean it." she whispered before planting a kiss on his cheek.

Flushed, Tennessee smiled nervously over at the mayor as he chuckled. "I see that my daughter's taken a liking to you."

"Can ya blame me?" Jessica giggled, sitting back down. "After all, he saved my life."

"So I hear. I also hear that it was quite a rescue you, Percy, and Sheriff Henderson pulled off at that mine, son. Sure hope things didn't get too dangerous for ya."

"Nah, a couple close shaves here and there but nothin too bad." Tennessee smiled. "I was mostly just worried about gettin' Jessica outta there alive, and let me tell ya, those varmints sure put up a chase in tryin' ta catch us."

"It was utterly ridiculous!" Jessica exclaimed. "I thought we were never gonna get outta there!"

Mayor Evans nodded knowingly at his daughter, then directed his attention back onto Tennessee. "I also hear that you pulled it off by...riding the mine rails...without a cart?"

"With his own two feet!" Jessica confirmed, taking a bite of her steak.

"Astonishing! How is that even possible?" Mayor Evans pondered. "Are you perhaps a magician like Weasen?"

"With all do respect sir," Tennessee's smile dropped. "Weasen's no magician. Sure, he performs fancy magic tricks, but he sure as hell doesn't have the title as an entertainer."

"Perhaps, but that still doesn't answer my question." Reminds the mayor. "How did you pull off those stunts in the mines, if not with a cart?"

"Self-practice, that's how," Tennessee answered with a smile. Unbeknownst to him or Mayor Evans, Jessica slowly removed one of her shoes and slowly yet seductively began running her bare foot up and down Tennessee's leg. Tennesse's eyes widened in surprise at this sensation and he glanced towards Jessica, who only smiled sweetly and batted her eyelashes at him.

"I, um..." Tennessee continued, clearing his throat and trying to look dignified despite what Jessica was doing, "I often find myself gettin' unwanted attention from the wrong kind of people, so I like ta make sure I can make an escape with whatever's around me, whether it's a rope I can walk on or a rail I can slide on."

"Guess that's part of being a lawman where you're from." Mayor Evans shrugged.

"O-Oh, I'm...I'm not a lawman." Tennessee admitted, earning perplexed looks from the duo. "I..uh..."

Mayor Evans raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean you're no lawman? You seem to be a natural with working alongside Sheriff Henderson."

"I, uh..." Tennessee cleared his throat. Despite the mild interrogation from Mayor Evans, his daughter was still currently rubbing her foot alongside his leg, moving closer and closer towards his crotch. A gulp escaped from the younger male raccoon as he fights the urge to moan from the sudden actions brought upon by Jessica. "I often...deal with lawmen while on the job."

"What is it that you do, exactly?" Jessica asked, continuing her actions from under the table.

"Indeed," Mayor Evans nodded. "Surely whatever it is that you do, your skills are required."

"A bounty hunter, maybe?" Jessica gasped.

"Well, uh..." Tennessee began uncomfortably. He didn't want to expose himself as an outlaw, but at the same time he couldn't just lie about what he did before coming to Hindus Valley, least of all to the mayor and daughter who had been so kind to him.

"It ain't really the most, uh...conventional line of work, really. Most people tend ta frown on it."

"Frown on it?" Jessica asked, ceasing her actions under the table and donning a frown of concern. "Why would they frown at you?"

"Cuz what I do, it...it tends ta cause more harm than good."

"And what is it that that you do, Mister Cooper?" Mayor Evans inquired, looking just as concerned as his daughter.

Tennessee knew that he was in a tight bind. On one hand, telling Jessica and Mayor Evans about his criminal career would put him in hot water with them and the rest of Hindus Valley, but lying them would mean violating their trust and make them more upset with him when they found out the truth about him.

"Looks like I have no choice," Tennessee thought to himself sullenly.

"Well…" he began solemnly as Mayor Evans and Jessica leaned in close, "The truth is...ever since I was twelve, I've been a professional-"

"MAYOR!"

The three raccoons jumped in their seats at the unprecedented screech. Looking towards the doorway, they saw Billsworthy struggling to hold onto a familiar young roadrunner whose face was wrought with panic.

"Mr. Mayor!" Chester screeched as he struggled to get out of the older bird's grasp. "We got an emergency! We need help now!"

"Chester?" Jessica asked in concern, "What's goin' on?" Meanwhile, Tennessee wasn't sure whether to feel irritated at the young bird for interrupting his confession or relieved he didn't have to share his secret yet.

"Please excuse the interruption, Master Evans," Billsworthy grunted as held tight onto Chester. "This young man just barged through the front door howling like a madman demanding to see you all."

"Because it's an emergency! The whole town's goin' nuts like it's the end of days in our valley!"

"Son, please," Mayor Evans remarked with a frown, "I'm in the middle of having dinner with my daughter and our esteemed deputy. Whatever's going on, I'm confident Sheriff Henderson-"

"No! You don't understand!" Chester squawked as he broke free from Billsworthy's grasp.

"Somethin's happened at Town Hall! Somebody broke in and set the place on fire! And Sheriff Henderson looks like he's gotten out of a fight with Blood Red Ted himself!"

Each raccoon at the table shared a look of wide-eyed shock and horror at the roadrunner's revelation, and within minutes they had left the table and were speeding towards town as fast as they could.

XXXXXXXXXX

Once they arrived at the town's main square, the raccoons could see that Chester was not exaggerating. The civilians of Hindus Valley were running around in a panic as the fire burned within Town Hall flames danced around in the windows and doorway as smoke rose into the sky above. Some of the male citizens were trying to mend the situation by throwing buckets of water onto exposed flames, but that did little to remedy the situation.

"Tennessee! Mister Evans!"

The male raccoons looked to see Percy dash over towards them, his brother not far behind as their eyes were wide with terror.

"Percy! What the Sam Hill is going on around here?!"

"I don't know!" Percy answered frantically. "We just heard from Chester that somethin' was happenin' at Town Hall! We weren't expecting it to be somethin' like this!"

The faint sound of someone moaning in pain was enough to catch Tennessee's attention. It was as if his body was on autopilot as Tennesse gently nudged civilians out of his way, approaching the source of the pained sounds. Unaware of Jessica and the mayor following him, Tennessee's eyes widened as soon as he caught sight of the source of the moans.

Sheriff Henderson layed helpless on the ground, his body looking like he'd been through a never-ending cactus field, due to all the scratches and bite marks on his body. What was most significant about the sheriff's condition was that his shirt was ripped open and his torso was marred by a freshly-made, T-shaped brand surrounding a fresh bullet wound.

"Oh God…" Jessica whispered, her hand coming up to her mouth.

Snapping out of his gaze, Tennessee turned and gave Jessica a look of dismay.

"...Tennessee…Bill..."

The male raccoons immediately got down on their knees next to the wounded canine. Looking over to Doctor Woodroe, the old badger merely gave a sad and resigned shake of his head, indicating the dog's state was beyond anything he could do.

"...George...What the hell happened?" Mayor Evans asked silently, horrified at the condition of his oldest friend.

"Ted…and the Riders, " Sheriff Henderson choked out. "They broke in...came ta steal the Blood Diamond. I...I tried...to stop them..."

"The Blood Diamond? Nevermind that!" Tennessee shouted. "We gotta get you some help, quick!"

"...No."

Everyone was silent as the old sheriff looked up mournfully at his younger deputy.

"I can...see it in your eyes, son…" Sheriff Henderson murmured. "There's nothin'... anyone can do ta help me…"

"Sheriff, don't say that! Yer gonna be okay!" Tennessee was quickly growing desperate. "This is my fault, I should've been here ta help! I swear I-"

"Quiet."

Tennessee obeyed as Sheriff Henderson let out a nasty series of coughs, alarming everyone. "We both know...my time is up...Ted got me too bad…" he weakly reached to grab Tennessee's wrist and bring his hand close to him. "I want ya...ta promise me somethin', Deputy."

"A-anything, Sheriff."

With his free hand, Henderson reached up and unclipped the sheriff's badge from his shirt. "Weasen...Ted... They're still out there somewhere."

"I…" Tennessee is lost for words, not flinching when Sheriff Henderson grabs onto his wrist, placing his badge onto the palm of his hand.

"These people...need someone...to protect them, Tennessee." Sheriff Henderson murmured and closed Tennessee's fingers around the badge. "Make sure...no more harm comes to them, son...make sure...Ted pays…"

Before Tennessee could answer, the grip the hounddog had on his wrist began to loosen, eventually leading to his hand to collapse onto the ground. No one dared to say a word. Tears began to spill from the eyes of all who were watching, the wettest of them being Tennessee's as he clutched the badge close to his chest.

"I...I promise…" he muttered and removed his hat, daring not to cry in front of all the people surrounding him. "I promise."

Just as Tennessee hung his head down, the familiar touch of Jessica's hand landed on his shoulder. Soon after that, Percy, Rudy, Mayor Evans, and Laura followed suit, the small group hugging Tennessee as they all began to shed their tears. The other onlookers could only do the same, bowing their heads and some removing their hats in respect for their beloved Sheriff as the fire continued to burn in Town Hall.

No one knew what was going to happen next, but one thing was for certain…

Weasen and the Rancid Riders were going to pay.