The Zootopian Chronicles II: Darkness

by Menser

The Protectors: They came with promises of safety and protection from all the threats facing Zootopia but what if the greatest threat is The Protectors themselves? Nick, Judy and their Furless friend must forge an alliance with old friends and Legends from Zootopia's dark mysterious past to save their city and world against these invaders from within and new otherworldly threats.

30. Investigation and Prelude

Investigation and Prelude

After the attack, a certain fox named Nick refused to let such behavior go without an appropriate response. It may have taken awhile, but everyone found out something that the fox believed in quite strongly. The secret couple then engaged in the cloak and dagger procedures leading to a meeting with their legendary fox friend at one of his special residences. As expected the meeting lived up to its build up and sets the stage for the mayhem to come.

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Zoodate: 144-145 P.C.

"They said WHAT!" Nick exclaimed in shock. He was not taking the news well. Judy had barely started her description of being accosted at the malt shop when the fox nearly jumped out his chair.

It was difficult for Judy to even tell the story without Nick interrupting her in anger. The normally cool and calm easygoing fox rarely showed anger or any emotion about anything, but the anti-predator behavior was too much for him. It didn't matter that it was against a human as the principle was that these Protector sycophants and zealots took offense of any predator being with a prey in any capacity as a friend or romantic partner. The attack was on all predators as well any prey who were friends with any predator. Nick knew his two roommates barely had any contact with each other and were attacked for no reason other than they were viewed as a predator and prey.

"Why didn't you arrest these troublemakers?" The fox wondered. Let's see how they liked the inside of a cell for the night.

"You know why. Because I would have to do a full report for the ZPD and record all their testimony accusing Drew and me of who knows how many lies and abominations. But whatever it was would not be good in a report especially with you know who in charge of City Hall." Judy explained.

The fox glared at Drew, "And you let these scum speak that way to Carrots!" No one speaks to my buddy like that!

Drew's eyes filled with anger and began to speak but Judy quickly answered for him, "No Nick he did not. He defended me at every opportunity. He was trying to calm things down, but they refused over and over and just got nastier and nastier. He defended me when they tried to grab me and he was going to… hurt them… hurt them really bad."

Drew nodded, "I don't think I have ever been so angry directly at a group of individuals before. Fortunately the owner stepped in. I don't know what would have happened if they had pushed me further, but it would not have pretty I assure you. I very likely could have lost control." Drew was horrified thinking of how close he had come nearly unleashing his full fury on them. He still had a headache from the negativity thrown at him that had almost completely disabled him. He knew he would have to watch for a similar situation and try and block things much earlier to avoid that situation. Trying to grab and harm Judy was not a recommended course of action around him. In such a scenario, he truly hated to imagine what he might be capable of both physically and mentally.

"If they had pushed further, I would have had to engage and disable them, report or no report." Judy admitted. She believe she might have had to try and completely incapacitate them before Drew killed or crippled them. That would have been a nightmare and disaster afterwards. She remembered the look in her love's eyes and had a pretty good idea they were close to how Reynard's had looked at times in his stories.

After finishing the complete story, Nick's fury had only multiplied in intensity. He marched around the living room in a circle with his head down furiously thinking. Finally he stopped and glared at Drew and Judy, "These slime are out there on the streets attacking and intimidating innocent citizens all over. We have to do something about it now before it gets more out of control!"

"I was going to talk to the Chief on Monday to go over a plan on how to deal with just that." Judy explained.

"We can't wait that long. We need to call him now! Who knows how many innocents could suffer between now and then. You need to tell him everything that happened." The fox angrily countered.

Drew was concerned, "The whole point was trying to keep the whole thing from the ZPD."

Nick retorted angrily, "This whole thing is way bigger than you two and your situation. There are many others at risk."

Judy thought about it a moment, "He's right. It is much bigger than Drew and me. But the Chief already knows about our relationship, and I am sure he would agree to leave any mention of Drew and myself out of the investigation. He could have Nick and myself investigate to make sure we are kept out of the report."

The human had some concerns about that, "Wouldn't that be a conflict of interest since you were a witness? Would your boss let you do something like that?"

The fox had an answer for that, "It wouldn't be the first time a government official was completely left out of a report. And under special circumstances Chief Buffalo-Butt can be convinced bending the rules is necessary. This would be one of those I am sure."

"Judy, do you think he would authorize that?" Drew wondered concerned.

Judy responded with a reasonable amount of confidence, "I believe so. I am pretty sure The Chief knows these are special circumstances. Before I mention the details I will feel him out to see if that is okay."

"We need to call him now." The fox insisted.

"Do you want me in on the conversation?" Drew asked hesitantly.

Judy firmly answered, "Yes. You are a witness. He will want to know your perspective especially with your knowledge of this kind of behavior from your world. This is new behavior for us. We may need your help getting available information from human law enforcement on handling these situations."

"I hadn't even thought about that." The human answered pensively looking up and considering what he might be able to offer, "I will put a data request into the office for whatever your chief needs. But one thing I have to caution is that Zootopians are not humans so their behavior may differ quite a lot."

"Well it would give us a place to start at least. It is better than approaching the situation with nothing. I'll call him now and see if he is available for a meeting." Judy offered.

Drew made some drinks for everyone while Judy called her boss. Nick continued to pace thinking.

Judy talked to her boss giving him a hint of what occurred and got him to agree to leave Drew and Judy out of the report and have only Nick and Judy investigate it.

The four got on a conference call with Chief Bogo, and Judy and Drew described everything that happened in detail.

Bogo: "The fox was right for the first time. You needed to call me immediately."

Nick: surprised "A compliment Chief?"

Bogo: "Don't let it go to your head Wilde."

Judy: "I would not have left those civilians if I didn't think my leaving was the best thing sir."

Bogo: "I know that Hopps. I would never doubt you would think of them first. But you still should have called it in and we could have seen about leaving you two out of the official report."

Drew: "Chief, involving more officers would have compromised us whether you left us out of the report or not. I have heard how rumors seem to spread around your office."

Bogo: "I suppose you are right. The situation with that buck is a big mess Hopps. It is hard to get my officers to get any work done. They only want to talk about you and that damn fancy rabbit, and I have even heard rumors you two have already eloped."

Judy: explaining "Chief, if I had any idea he was gonna pull anything like that..."

Bogo: interrupting "Doesn't matter. He did, and now it is a mess we are all going to have to deal with."

Drew: "One other thing I was worried about was that by calling in the ZPD it could have made things much worse."

Bogo: "How?"

Drew: "Well a lot of times when police from the human world clash with mobs things escalate quickly and things can get really ugly. The mobs become much more aggressive and out of control."

Judy: cautioning "We are going to have to figure out how to deal with these situations carefully."

Nick: angrily "These prejudice, specist scum don't deserve to be treated nicely."

Drew: "I only suggest that caution be taken to try and calm them and end it peacefully first."

Bogo: "Hopps, what do you suggest?"

Judy: "We need to create a task force and prepare all officers on how to handle these groups as I believe we will see a lot more."

Bogo: "Ambassador, can you get me all information on dealing with this?"

Drew: "I will get on that immediately Chief, but as I told your two officers, human behavior may be quite a bit different especially since human mobs anticipate the actions of the police and react aggressively to them. I would hope that deep down Zootopians are more peaceful and would respect the ZPD and behave accordingly. Humans in many places in their world have little respect for law enforcement in those situations."

Bogo: "I hope you're right. Hopps and Wilde have mentioned the problems with law enforcement in your home world."

Drew: "It really varies a lot from region to region. I may also see about requesting some non-lethal less irritating anti-riot solutions for use by the ZPD. I could provide them to your department at no cost as a gift from humanity."

Bogo: "That would be much appreciated as our budget is tight as it is. And if we have these kinds of situations happening now we will have no budget left."

Nick: "Chief what about my request for a spa for the office to help morale. Oh and what about my request for a visit from the Cheerpaws?"

Bogo: upset "Wilde! You're wasting my time with jokes? Wasn't this call your idea?"

Nick: apologizing "Sorry sir, habit."

Bogo: "I'll authorize the time and arrange a flexible work schedule for you to investigate."

Judy: "We would like to start tonight."

Nick: agreeing enthusiastically "What? Yes actually that would be good."

Bogo: surprised "Wilde are you offering to work during your time off?"

Nick: surprising himself "I guess I am."

Bogo: "Good to see something can motive your lazy butt."

Judy: "We were going to go get a statement from the owner and footage of the incident if he had cameras. We also need access to any CCTV security footage in the entire area as well as have it all processed through the facial recognition system. We will really need that to find the perpetrators."

Bogo: "I will authorize the paperwork and submit it through the correct channels. You should be able to access the footage in a few hours."

Drew: "Thanks for your discretion in the matter Chief."

Bogo: "You're welcome. I know what is at stake for you and Hopps especially with this new government. Just be much more careful from now on."

Drew: "You can certainly count on that."

Bogo: "Well get on it. And have Hopps or Wilde bring me the info you find Ambassador."

Drew: "Of course Chief."

The Chief ended the call.

Nick: "Well let's get to that shop before it closes."

Judy: "I'll go ahead and call now. I am sure the owner will stay late to talk to us and will give us any assistance we need. He will definitely be thrilled to meet you Nick."

Nick: "Well I will take any cooperation I can get. Hope you weren't busy tomorrow."

Judy: hesitantly "Oh… um… speaking of that. I kinda am."

Nick: aghast "Carrots, what could be more important than this?"

Judy: "I have an important prior engagement with Drew."

Nick: "Well cancel it."

Judy: "We can't."

Nick: "You realize what's at stake."

Drew: "Yes Nick, she does. It is classified and very important as well. But it is not until early afternoon."

Judy: offering "I can work in the morning and tomorrow night late if you need."

Nick: "Fine. Let's see how much we can get done tonight then."

Judy called the owner Dale Rutter who was very excited to help the investigation in any way possible and offered to turn over a copy of all footage captured on his shop's outside security cameras which he personally had installed. These would probably have the best views possible of all the suspects. They could then run the footage through the facial recognition systems and create a list of suspects and violations. It was important that word got around immediately that such behavior would not tolerated and would be prosecuted.

Judy also called the mom of the little beaver girl and asked if she knew if she had the information for any of the patrons and if they had video footage of the incident. The mom had recorded some footage and emailed it and a few contacts for others present. Judy was busy contacting these patrons and collecting anything captured on video.

Meanwhile Drew put in a request for all data relating to discrimination, prejudicial attacks of any kind, mob violence, any equipment available to be used when combating these incidents and especially any footage and law enforcement data on dealing with them. He knew his staff could see about collecting all that information while he was busy with Reynard. He then prepared all the items for both Judy and himself for their meeting with the fox so the only thing required for Judy when she finally finished tonight was to get a good nights sleep and shower and change the next day. He would take care of everything else so she could dedicate her time to her investigation.

Nick and Judy collected all city CCTV electronic video footage the cameras in the entire area captured during the incident. They knew approximately when it occurred based on the time Drew called for the security pick up and collected everything for thirty minutes prior to this event until two hours after. All video footage was run through facial recognition software and a list of suspects was created. Nick and Judy went through the footage of each suspect and made a list of any violations the suspects were guilty of. They even identified the zebra and wildebeest that originally accosted them, and were quite certain they could find out who the ram and sheep were once the other two were interrogated.

Chief Bogo had arranged for a judge to give them arrest warrants for all suspects and the warrants were divided among several officers. Judy and Nick handled the arrest of the zebra named Ronald Banding and the wildebeest Bovie Connoc. Nick was not gentle with the arrests and happily tasered the wildebeest when he tried to resist. Nick was pleased that the zebra folded like a small child and easily gave up the other two suspects very quickly once he realized who the bunny was that he had attacked. They had both suspects phones and all calls and texts logged during the time of the incident. The zebra gave up four other suspects from the mob two of which they did not have on their list and had arrest warrants issued for them as well and a team of officers dispatched to pick them up.

The interrogation of the wildebeest Bovie Connoc was a bit more contentious. He defiantly accused Judy and the human of being deviants until a very angry Nick Wilde informed him that the two of them were just very close friends who had been through hell and back saving his sorry ass from becoming a Covenant predator hostage. Once this Bovie had seen the mound of evidence concerning Judy and the human and what they had done for the city as well as what evidence they had on their entire group and most of the mob, Bovie quickly changed his story blaming everything on the ram leader Bobby Butters including mistaking the human and the rabbit as a couple not realizing who they were.

Nick and Judy personally went to arrest the ram and Nick prayed he resisted. They were armed and ready for action when Nick rapped loudly on the door to the apartment of the Butters household. He repeated this action a few seconds later and then continued every fifteen seconds or so.

Then a gruff could be heard inside, "Who the hell is knocking on the door this late?"

Nick promptly responded, "ZPD sir… we are here to see Bobby Butters. We understand he lives here."

"Yeah… what the hell has he gotten into now?" The voice answered in a frustrated tone, "Can't this wait until morning?"

"I'm afraid not. It is a time sensitive matter." Nick answered in a stern serious voice unlike his usual calm relaxed attitude.

"What's this concerning?" The voice wanted to know.

Nick considered this and responded matter-of-factly, "A case of bigotry, intolerance and general scumminess."

The voice inside seemed to consider this and then opened the door to reveal a middle-aged ram wearing boxer shorts and a sleeveless t-shirt.

"I assume you have some identification and docum..." The ram started to say gruffly and then seemed to get a disgusted look seeing the fox and then the bunny looking back at him sternly.

The two officers displayed their badges and Nick shoved the warrant into the chest of the ram and pushed their way into the apartment and both headed down the hall and looked into an open room that had the light out.

Night could make out a middle-aged sheep in the bed and told his partner softly, "Must be in the closed room." Judy nodded that she understood.

The ram behind them was looked a bit shocked and reading the warrant. Nick knocked on the closed door and yelled inside, "Bobby Butters… ZPD here. Come out."

Nick and Judy could hear some rustling sounds inside for a minute and then silence.

Nick then knocked again loudly yelling, "Bobby… come out no…."

Just then the door opened and a large ram had his head lowered and came charging out striking Nick in the shoulder and knocking Judy backwards. He continued his charge towards the front door. However Judy spun to her side and quickly righted herself and took aim and fired her pistol hitting the ram square in the back with a dart. Nick had recovered and took off after the ram following him out the door with Judy in pursuit behind them. The ram could feel the effects of the dart starting to take effect and he threw the backpack he had been carrying at the fox, but Nick dodged out of the way and closed with the charging ram.

Judy was trying to line up another shot but Nick was in the way. When Nick was almost on the ram he spun and took a swing at the fox, but the experienced ZPD officer was ready for such a telegraphed response and ducked it and grinned maliciously as he happily tasered the ram watching with pleasure as the ram screamed and fell to the ground convulsing. Nick seemed to hold the shocking charge quite a bit longer than normal until Judy lightly punched him to get his attention giving him a glare to tell her partner that was quite enough. The fox finally sighed and relented releasing the shock. The ram shook on the floor still convulsing with his tongue out and spit dribbling on the floor.

As Judy put the cuffs on him, Nick grinned happily stating officially, "Bobby Butters, thanks for making my day by fleeing and attacking me, a warrant has been issued for your arrest. You are suspected of lots of good things including assaulting a government official and ZPD officer, disruption of a public place, lewdness, formation and leading of a mob with intent to cause destruction and bodily harm, destruction of property and threats to the public, resisting arrest, and well so many more things I can't think of right now but am sure I will find more."

The only response out of the suspect was a weak grunt. Judy injected the ram with a stimulant to counter the effects of the tranquilizer and the groggy ram finally got to his feet. Judy collected the warrant from the shocked father as well as Bobby's mobile phone from the bag he was carrying. The father followed after the pair as they took his son down the elevator and into the lobby escorting him to their police cruiser. They drove to the home of their fourth suspect, the sheep named Bonny Fleecey and left the still recovering ram locked in the car as it would take awhile for the dart to wear off. Unfortunately she came quite noisily, but without incident.

They placed the ram in a separate holding cell and interrogated the sheep first. During the interrogation the pair of officers dissuaded her quite quickly about the human and bunny pair that they thought was a couple of actually being such, and like the wildebeest she blamed everything on the leader Bobby Butters.

They had the confessions of the other three and all evidence and began their final interrogation of the leader Bobby Butters.

As he sat across from the fox and bunny he glared defiantly and snarled at Judy, "What the fuck is she doing here? Get that fucking pred whore out of here!"

The formerly calm and collected fox instantly got a very angry look on his face and instantly was up and moved over behind the ram and not so gently introduced the ram's face to the table in front of him whispering with intense malice in his ear, "Call her anything like that again and I will show you what a predator can really do."

Once the ram understood the foxes position on treating his partner with disrespect he defiantly was very candid about his feelings about the perverse pairing of the human and rabbit. The fox not so gently reminded him that there was no law against such a thing and that there was nothing wrong with a predator and prey being together, nor a bunny being with anyone else besides a bunny.

The ram then decided he objected to being interrogated by this particular pair of officers or as he put it, "I want someone else besides a pred and pred slut to talk to."

Judy stopped Nick putting her paw on his arm as he growled and moved to correct the ram. Nick instead responded menacingly, "You can have our boss Chief Bogo instead if you want, but he will be ten times worse than us I guarantee you that. Actually, I would really like to watch that."

Judy nodded her agreement, "Chief would really like that."

Nick explained to the ram with pleasure, "You think he is in a bad mood normally. How mad do you think he would be if we called him in from home this late at night to deal with this?"

Judy added, "I would certainly try and stay out of his way as he charged in here fuming."

The ram seemed to reconsider his request for different interrogators. The two then showed him all the evidence and news stories about the friendship of Judy and the human and their work saving and protecting Zootopia.

Bobby finally admitted, "Well… maybe I was mistaken about her and the human being a couple, but it is still an abomination for a rabbit to be sitting with a human… or any predator like that. It is disgusting."

A very irate fox deciding to express his views on the matter, "You bigoted piece of… how can you think it is wrong for them to sit together! They are close friends who have faced death and the worst things possible together to save your sorry butt. If more predator and prey had the bond these two do, this world would be much better. I suppose you have a problem with her and me as friends and partners as well."

The ram glared at them and finally answered, "Yes… the two of you… together makes me sick. Her touching you is distasteful and nauseating. You shouldn't even be in the same room together sharing the same air. I will just be happy when The Protectors stop all this shit and outlaw everything. My only crime is being too passionate and impatient to see this abomination stopped."

Nick looked at Judy, "Carrots, I thought you exaggerated all the things this one and his group said, but I am pretty sure you held back. Someone like this shouldn't be on the streets with the good citizens of Zootopia."

Judy responded nodding and heartily agreeing, "He should be locked up and spend many years getting to know all the predators and predator lovers in prison."

The ram realized his interrogators seemed quite confident in their assertions and not so confidently asked, "Hmmm… so what do you have on me?"

They showed the ram the evidence they had against him, the confessions of all three of his companions blaming him for everything, the long list of charges, the malt shop owner's statement, the video evidence and of course Judy's testimony.

The ram was still defiant staring at them with animosity and smugness, "Well I can still fight all that in court, any jury members that support The Protectors will make sure I am not convicted."

The fox simply answered his disdain with some cold hard truths, "And because of you making this all about The Protectors, any jury member who supports any of their ideology or identifies with them in any way would be automatically excused from that jury. And so how do you think your behavior will play out to a jury of predators and prey who find such behavior sick and twisted? Attacking Carrots here, someone who has sacrificed her life so many times to save those very same jurors and done so much to help them?"

The ram thought about this for awhile, his defiant stare beginning to diminish until he finally realized how all that would play out in court and what the potential punishment would be for the long list of charges he was facing. He finally looked down at the table in front of him refusing to look at the predator and pred whore before him grumbling, "Fine… I'll take the deal."

Nick grinned at Judy and she grinned back up at him. Nick then moved low over the table enough so the ram could see him looking up at him and said with satisfaction, "Eh… what's that? I don't think I heard you."

The ram then looked up in defeat sorrowfully bleating, "I'll confess okay… give me the deal."

The fox joyfully slid over the confession and plea and the ram signed them both. The confession also stated that the accusations he made in the malt shop were fabricated and completely baseless. He confessed he merely made up an excuse to attack two innocent patrons who were doing nothing but enjoying their malts and each others company.

The fox grinned at the ram nonchalantly talking to him as if he was a shop owner selling him an appliance, "Pleasure doing business with you."

The only response was some grumbling as the ram was taken to holding.

In each of the interrogations of the four suspects who had personally attacked Drew and Judy, when Judy wasn't present in the room Nick subtlety inferred that Judy's rich and powerful buck fiancee would be seriously pissed and looking for payback against them and recommended they change their tune regarding the whole incident and better claim it was just a case of mistaken identity. If that buck heard anything about his sweetheart or her closest friend being badmouthed, well the ZPD would be the least of their worries.

With a plea deal, two of the ram's followers, the sheep and wildebeest, received a $2000 fine, 3 years probation and a 3 year restraining order from being within 40 meters of the malt shop. For his exceptional cooperation, the zebra Ronald Banding received no fine and 1 year probation contingent on his cooperation as an informant regarding any similar activity for a one year period. The zebra seemed quite enthusiastic and motivated to find any individuals acting in a similar fashion towards any other innocent victims.

The ram received a six month jail sentence, $5000 fine, 3 years probation and the same 3 year restraining order for the malt shop. All members of the mob received $1000 fines and 2 years probation. Two members of the mob were already on probation and were sent to the judge handing their cases for the additional sentencing of jail time based on those violations.

Both Judy and Nick were exhausted by the time they arrived home. Drew had already fallen asleep on the sofa for many hours waiting for them, but woke up to find out what had happened. Surprising both Judy and Drew, Nick volunteered to handle all the paperwork for the entire investigation on Sunday with Judy checking over it all when she got back Sunday night.

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Zoodate: 145 P.C.

Drew woke up around 11:30 AM and prepared everything for their meeting as well as fixing a meal and laying everything out for Judy. He received the meeting information from Reynard and contacted Marvin on when to pick them up. Marvin was the only one he would trust to pick them up and not ask questions or say a word to anyone about anything. He let Judy sleep until 12:30 PM and woke her gently. She seemed to be in much better spirits after a good rest and spent some of her new energy having an intense but fairly quick amorous interlude with her mate. They both ate the lunch Drew had prepared and showered and changed into the special outfits Drew had prepared for their special meeting.

Judy owned only the one dress that Drew had gotten her for their first encounter with their legendary friend, but at the time Drew had actually ordered her a second dress and surprised her with it now. She saw the Zoe Secret Garden box and clapped her paws in excitement and rushed over to open it up and see what it contained. Inside was a Zoe Rose Garden Flared Fully Lined Dress Gray from the Chasing Fireflies collection. The dress consisted of a background of multiple shades of gray patterning covered in beautiful pink and red flowers all accented with a pink belt with a bow on the front. Judy couldn't believe how amazing it was and had never seen it's like for any bunny or any small or medium sized mammal. She wanted to use her remaining energy for another interlude, but Drew had them on a strict timetable and extremely reluctantly promised she needed to delay that thought until after their meeting, and then she could have as much time as she wanted to do whatever she wished with him.

As Judy finished dressing in the bedroom, Drew finished getting cleaned up and ready in the bathroom with his surprise outfit. He opened the door and with a flourish and presented himself to her for inspection. He stood with his legs posed apart with his feet at right angles with a slightly bent left knee and threw his right arm forward and finger spread and held his left behind him with his palm wide as if preparing a magic ball to cast against his foes.

Judy turned to stare at him in wonder stuttering, "You're… you're..."

"The current Doctor." He said with a big grin. But then he got his somber face on to mimic this serious intense doctor played by Peter Capaldi. The outfit was an exact replica of the outfit worn on Doctor Who consisting of $1000 Navy Retro Crombie coat slim fit with the scarlet inner lining providing a flash of flair, John Smedley merino wool cardigan, white tailored shirt, Hertford T dark navy pleat trousers and Dr Martens original 8-Eye boots.

While his personality more closely matched the previous doctor, Drew appreciated the intense and serious nature of the new Doctor. He felt it fit the times they currently found themselves living in especially with the events of the previous night. It was time for serious business and he needed to get his game face on.

"You look so serious and dark." She said in a hushed tone. He kind of looks a bit scary.

He grinned at her relaxing and removing his stern visage, "It's still me love. I'm acting!" He said in his best imitation of John Lovitz's character The Thespian from SNL throwing his right arm forward presenting his open hand in the air and placing his right foot forward looking into the sky in a dramatic fashion.

Judy giggled at that, "I can see that. You do make a striking figure in that outfit." She really wanted to jump him again, but they best not keep their important friend waiting.

Drew had also gotten some light overcoats for them to wear over their outfits to protect against any elements, but primarily to camouflage themselves so they didn't become more noticeable than they already were.

Drew had already fed Nick when he had gotten up earlier to prepare their meal. He saw a very serious and determined fox friend off who was dedicated to working on the reports for his and Judy's all night investigation. Drew had never seen the fox so serious about anything before.

He got a text from Marvin telling them he was ready in the basement as Drew had called ahead to security authorizing Marvin to enter the facility. Judy and Drew exited the elevator and briefly showed the raccoon their outfits before entering his car. Marvin insisted the two ride in his backseat as he was to be their chauffeur today. Drew gave Marvin their destination and they took off towards the meeting location near Harbour St. on far western end of the city on the border of the Rainforest and Savanna Central districts.

Marvin didn't want to ask any questions, but he was a raccoon and his curious instincts did take over briefly, "Wow, you guys look absolutely amazing. This some kind of special elite get together for government officials?"

"Something like that." Drew grinned at his assistant.

"Do you know where you are going?" The raccoon inquired.

"No idea whatsoever." Drew responded.

Judy laughed in an animated manor adding, "It's what makes it so much more exciting."

"Do you need me to pick you guys up?" Marvin wondered.

"No, they will drop us off after we are done. But we really appreciate you dropping us off today." The human expressed his gratitude.

"Happy to do it. When did you guys get those outfits? They had to come through the portal. I didn't see them on the manifests." The astute raccoon commented.

Drew admitted, "I had actually gotten these over a month ago in the event we needed them for just this kind of occasion."

"Got anything good in the briefcase?" Marvin grinned referring to the case Drew was carrying.

"Party favors." Drew responded with a mischievous nod.

"Of the drinking kind I hope." His always alert assistant commented.

"But of course." The human admitted freely.

The raccoon adapted a sly grin of his own, "Now you two don't get into too much trouble. But knowing you guys you will ignore me and require me to come bail you out of jail. Remember you don't have friends down at City Hall anymore to get you out of trouble."

"Well we do have a few friends at the ZPD." Drew said with a laugh.

Judy laughed as well, "We will try to behave. I don't want to generate any more paperwork. If I had known half of police work involved filling out forms, I am not sure I would have been so enthusiastic about choosing it as a career path."

Marvin had an answer to that, "Don't get me started on paperwork. What do you think I do all day? Just piles of requisitions forms, reports, regulations, inventory management, legal documents, employee forms and non-stop emails. At least you guys get to run around part of the time catching bad guys."

Drew appreciated every bit of the work his assistant did. There was no way he could come close to handling everything required without his help, "Well I am thinking of taking you with me on any future meetings with business executives. After your impressive showing at the concert, I think you have a real knack for promoting our services."

Marvin smiled at that. It was something he enjoyed immensely, "I like the sound of that. Sign me up for that pronto."

"Consider it done. Check the calendar for the next meetings and add yourself on the schedule. Well, since you make the schedule it shouldn't be too hard a task." Drew smiled as he directed the raccoon to an enjoyable task for a change.

As they drove to the meeting point a black limousine with all dark tinted windows was waiting for them. Marvin pulled around to the back rear door of the limo where a jaguar dressed in a black uniform with a black cap opened the back door. Judy opened her door as it was closest to the limo and they exited through her door to step just a couple steps into the back of the limo.

They heard Marvin yell, "Good luck." Just before the jaguar wordlessly closed the rear door.

Judy could hear Marvin drive off and then heard nothing. The windows of the limo in the back were completely dark and nothing could be seen out of them. All of a sudden they heard the doors lock inside and realized they had been locked into the limo and could not escape.

The window in front slid open and the jaguar let them know, "The car has been locked for your own safety until we reach your destination. The car is stocked with food, refreshments, and entertainment... help yourselves. In case of emergency press the button below the sliding window here, otherwise everything is soundproof and completely private."

Drew had a worried feeling that the trip to their destination may take awhile from the jaguar's statement, "How long is the trip?" He asked with unease.

Their only answer was a curt reply, "Awhile, get comfortable." And then the window slid shut and they could feel the car vibrate enough to know they were moving.

"Well this is definitely cloak and dagger." Drew admitted to his love.

"I just wish we weren't all dressed up and fancy as I've always wanted to snuggle in the back of a limo." The bunny said with an impish grin.

He leaned over and kissed her pushing her downward, but she put her paw in his face and gently pushed him back upwards chastising him, "Don't be starting anything you know you can't finish."

The human sighed releasing her, "You are right of course. I was hoping to have all that worked out of my system before meeting Reynard."

"I think he actually prefers it rumbling at the surface ready to pounce." She admitted with a grin.

"You are right of course. He does get quite a lot of amusement thinking of the two of us together." Drew realized their host had a bit of obsession with that idea and then thought about something, "What about on the way back?"

"The way back from whe… oh… I don't want to get the dress messy." Judy said concerned. But I have always fantasized about the back of a limo and well...

Drew grinned devilishly, "What if you weren't wearing a dress TO get messed up."

Judy giggled, "Hmmm sometimes your thinking does pay off."

Drew nodded, "Law of averages. Has to pay off eventually."

The two of them made themselves some tea and snacked on some fruit. They took off their overcoats and relaxed enjoying some time to just talk to each other. Unlike many couples, the two loved to talk about endless topics. They never seemed to get bored with each other as they both continued to learn new and strange things about each other and their histories. Of course growing up on two different worlds didn't hurt when it came to their each having fascinating pasts and different perspectives to explore.

Mostly Judy filled Drew in on her and Nick's entire investigation the previous night. Normally Judy didn't go into detail about her cases with Drew, but this was a special exception as he was directly involved. Because of her relationship, this would have never occurred in any other circumstance except for this very unusual situation because of the conflict of interest. Once she had completely filled him in on the status and answered his many questions, they decided to discuss the meeting they were heading toward hopefully.

Judy queried, "Where do you think we are going?"

Drew responded considering the question, "It could really be anywhere. I was thinking North or South. But he could be driving around in circles for all we know, and we were already there."

She sighed resigned to having no idea, "I guess it will just be another mystery to add to the pile of mysteries surrounding our friend."

"He really wouldn't be nearly as interesting if we knew everything about him." Drew commented.

Judy admitted, "I guess you are right. But he is so frustrating with all his secrets. Trying to get answers out of him is worse than with Nick. I wonder if it has something to do with foxes or maybe it is hereditary."

"I hate stereotyping any species here as I don't wish to be specist. But it does seem some species do have certain common behaviors and characteristics." Drew cautiously admitted.

"Well his mom doesn't seem to be that way." Judy exclaimed.

"I wouldn't consider his mom's case to be typical of all foxes. But I have known some other foxes, and they don't seem quite so closemouthed as our two friends." Drew thoughtfully considered.

"Speaking of Nick's mom, what is the status with her treatment?" Judy wondered.

Drew signed, "Dr. Scrofton is running into the problems we were worrying about. The blocks are so strong and don't want to give any. He is getting quite frustrated and has tried a lot of techniques they have successfully used on human Earth, but without any luck. He is trying some of the more experimental ones now."

"Do you think he is going to want you to try assisting him?" Judy asked with a cautious tone.

Drew admitted, "Well want is a strong word. She is quite fragile and he realizes that such an attempt poses a lot of risks. I am hoping that with my knowledge of the truth from Reynard, I could find a way to apply it to some of the less risky conventional methods."

"But you are not a trained therapist." She cautioned.

Drew responded, "I know that bun. But I want to try with the help of the doctor before I start messing in her head. I couldn't forgive myself if I didn't at least try that before attempting such a radical solution. It seems to have gotten more and more unpredictable lately as it has gotten more powerful. It has frightened me and I have tried using it less and less. I have only been using it in situations where it is absolutely necessary. The dangers to Marion, myself, or even you and the doctor are very real."

"I just hope you are successful. I suppose a lot depends on what we find tonight." Judy conceded, "How much of all that can we tell Reynard when he asks?"

"Well we can mainly just impress upon him the importance of knowing every tiny detail of what occurred in order to have any chance of success with her." Drew answered.

"I just want it to work so much. She is so lonely and has so many years left she could have with her family. The same for Nick and whatever part of Reynard's family remains. It is a crime that all this happened." A frustrated bunny responded.

"Speaking of crimes, I wonder what Reynard will have for us this time. The impressions I am getting are that it is not going to pretty. I brought a full pocket of tissues this time for you." Drew commented showing Judy his full pocket of the soft fluffy things and additional supplies in the inside pocket of his coat.

Judy laughed, "Learned your lesson from last time I take it."

"Well I will most likely have to have the suit dry cleaned again, but figured it couldn't hurt." He admitted with a smirk.

After just under 30 minutes of travel, the vehicle stopped moving, and a voice from a speaker with the jaguar's gravely voice told them, "We have arrived. I will let you have a minute to get yourselves together and then open the door, so please be prepared."

Drew turned to Judy, "You know I think Reynard was encouraging us to try something in the limo."

Judy giggled, "He is a sneaky devilish one."

"Sounds like someone we know, but with a whole lot of resources and experience." Drew commented.

"Hmm… maybe it is not the best idea getting him together with his nephew." Judy considered.

Drew objected, "Too late now love. You have kind of committed us to all this."

The door then opened and they saw the jaguar standing straight and staring ahead not looking in their direction. Drew thought just in case we weren't quite properly dressed and ready to exit I suppose.

As they got out they could see they were in a large underground garage all in white. The immaculate floor, walls and ceiling all were clean and brightly lit by the many recessed lights in the ceiling. The garage currently housed two luxury vehicles in addition to the limousine.

Judy commented, "This looks just like something out of your spy movies with the double O guy."

Drew responded, "Double O Seven. James Bond. And yes I agree, this is not what I was expecting, but that certainly sounds like our host."

The jaguar wordlessly escorted them to a clear glass wall with a glass door. The driver punched in a security code and swiped a key card and the door opened. They walked a few steps to an elevator and the jaguar put a key into a slot and turned it and pressed the up button on the elevator.

While they waited, Drew turned to the jaguar, "Surely there was security to even enter this garage. Any reason for all the additional layers of security?"

The jaguar didn't even look at him or answer. The elevator opened and the feline motioned them inside and then pressed the One button on the inside panel and stepped out of the elevator and stared ahead as the doors closed.

"Not exactly a talkative fellow." Drew commented.

Judy was curious and tried pushing the two and three buttons in the elevator, but they did not light up. They saw there was a key slot in the elevator as well.

"Well seems we have but one choice." Drew stated the obvious to his companion who nodded wordlessly.

The doors then opened and they cautiously stepped out into the foyer of an obvious mansion with whitish beige marbled floor with marbled steps continuing up a spiral staircase with an intricate black staircase guard and a beautiful chandelier hanging from the top. A shiny black baby grand piano sat at the foot of the stairs. The area in the foyer was decorated with various works of art including sculptures, paintings and vases.

Out of nowhere a familiar red furred figure appeared wearing a knee length dark brown coat with matching pants that looked similar to something from the Victorian era with wide collar, maroon patterned vest and open collar white shirt with a matching maroon patterned ascot and a matching dark brown tophat. In the paw of the grinning fox was a suitable cane for a foxes stature to complete the look.

The figure who was none other than their friend Reynard took in his guests admiring their outfits and motioning for each to turn around to display them completely.

The fox then broke the silence, "You two do not disappoint. I take it more outfits from your human world?"

Drew admitted, "Yes, the dress Judy is wearing is from the same place I got the last one. It even perfectly compliments her beautiful fur."

Reynard bowed to the bunny, "My dear, you look absolutely stunning."

Judy grinned wide, "Thank you. Anyone who knew me wouldn't believe I was even wearing a dress. This is only the second time."

The fox gave her a toothy grin, "Well you should do it more often. You are truly a vision to behold. I have been doubled blessed with such a special gift." He then commented turning to the human, "My, you do present an imposing figure in that outfit my human friend."

Drew gave him the pose he had given Judy earlier with a somber intense stare, "It is none other than the ensemble of the current Doctor from the science fiction show Doctor Who."

The fox nodded in thought, "I see. I did manage to catch some episodes. But they never give him a name which was confusing."

"You of all mammals should understand that is the mystery. He is simply known as The Doctor. A Time Lord extraterrestrial from the planet Gallifrey who travels with his companion or companions throughout all of space and time but most frequently to periods of human Earth history. None of his companions compare to my lovely companion here. I have just been extra blessed to have her accompanying my version of The Doctor on my adventures on this planet." Drew explained with a grin and nod to his gray furred friend.

"Ah, so you believe yourself to be the embodiment of this Doctor on Zootopia?" The fox asked with a twinkle in his eye.

"I suppose I sometimes imagine myself as such. I just seem to be stuck in one time period. But I like to think my spirit and drive to help the inhabitants of this planet matches that of The Doctor." The human admitted.

"Fascinating. I shall try and find more opportunities to watch a few more episodes. It is hard to find such time. Perhaps you can provide me a list of the best episodes to watch when you have a chance." Reynard requested.

"I would be glad to. We were quite impressed with your private underground entrance." Drew admitted.

"Ah, I thought you might. It seemed especially useful to better hide the location. Do you have anything you need to chill in the case?" The fox asked glancing at Drew's brown satchel.

"Yes, I brought a variety of special libations for us to sample." Drew proudly admitted.

"Excellent, well let us off to the kitchen for some cooling implements." The fox instructed as he led them down a hallway to an enormous modern kitchen with white walls and cabinets with white marble counter tops with gray streaks, two stove tops with venting like you would find at a fancy restaurant, a matching white marbled large table in the middle, and several ovens and two large stainless steel refrigerators.

The fox got some buckets of ice and water out and placed them on the counter. Drew opened the case and pulled out several bottles.

"This is an amazing kitchen. But it does seem a bit overkill for your needs." Judy commented.

The fox grinned at her, "I recognize a subtle probe about the others living here. Actually this is not where I reside. It serves as a guest house for special visitors and a place I can have parties and entertain. Typically when I have a large party, we have a catering service which will use the kitchen to prepare everything for the guests. So what drinks have you brought this time?"

"A Domaine de Chevalier Blanc 2015 from Bordeaux France, Aubert Eastside Russian River Chardonnay 2014, Armand de Brignac Champagne Brut Gold and Glenmorangie 25 Year Old Scotch." Drew listed.

The fox smiled, "I take it none of these are inexpensive."

"No, they all would quite hurt a normal mammal's budget including mine. They are all some of the very best of each variety made if price is no object. They should not disappoint." Drew admitted.

Judy looked a bit concerned, "You better not drink all that or you won't remember the story."

Drew smiled at her trying to alleviate her worry, "I have a bit more experience drinking than you do, and quite a lot more tolerance so I assure you love, I will watch the amount. I just figured it never hurt to have more than you need."

"Indeed. I often say the same. Which should we start with?" Reynard asked.

Drew put the two wines and the champagne in bucks of ice and water and added salt to the bucket with the champagne, "I would say the champagne and save the wines for dinner and the scotch for after. I made the assumption that you would have seafood again so I brought whites. It should take just ten minutes for it to be properly chilled with the addition of the salt."

"Ah, excellent. Yes a good assumption. There is reason for that which you may eventually learn in the later parts of my story. I can give you a tour then while it readies itself." The fox stated with a grin.

Reynard took them back through the kitchen and up the spiral staircase where they examined several bedrooms each in different opulent styles and then stepped into the master bedroom which had two lavish dressing rooms equipped with numerous drawers, mirrors, shoe bins and rotating hangers for a massive wardrobe for each occupant.

"I could get used to this." Judy expressed with a thoughtful smile.

"Do you think you need all this space to hold your ZPD uniform?" Drew teased.

"Oh har har. I have quite a few other clothes now including two dresses. I would just have to do a lot of shopping to fill it all up. I don't have any shoes for my feet though." Judy explained.

"Well they would be helpful for me. What's out there?" Drew asked the fox indicating the two large balconies extending from the bedroom.

"Ah I would prefer you not check out that particular view as it might give a hint to our location." The fox asked nodding to the balconies.

"We would of course respect your wishes. We are just so gratified you were able to share your hospitality with us." A much more mature Judy expressed to their host.

"You are most welcome." The fox gave a slight bow to the couple and continued showing them the upper floor.

They were amazed by an enormous open-style bathroom with marbled floor and a large tub in the middle. Reynard informed them that the mansion had seven opulent bathrooms. Once they had finished the tour of the upstairs they returned to the staircase.

"What's up on the next level?" Judy wondered.

"Mainly storage and a private study that I work from when I am here." Reynard admitted.

They headed back downstairs and admired the hallway filled with large mirrors, benches, tables with elaborate vases, lamps and sculptures. At the end of one hallway was an enormous dining room with a long dining table with seating for eighteen large humans comfortably. There was a beautiful modern crystal chandelier with hundreds of crystal globes of different sizes hanging from a ceiling light.

"The room, seating and table can be adapted and modified for smaller or larger mammals." The fox pointed out.

Reynard continued the tour of the main floor showing them a living area with a fireplace, numerous sofas, recliners, end tables and a piano. Drew was quite interested in a library room with a sofa and several chairs for reading, a fireplace, a large desk against a wall in between two large bookcases to either side. The desk had a computer screen and high end office chair. The human was very interested in the many titles in the bookshelves especially some of the histories of Zootopia.

"One of these days I will have to show you the library at my residence. It has quite an extensive collection of books. Most of this is just casual reading. I would be very interested in a collection of books from your world someday." Their host explained.

Drew considered the fox's request, "I will look into that sometime. One problem I have had with bringing some rare valuable materials like that is that some are leather bound and many mammals have a lot of sensitivity regarding that."

"I assure you I don't. I suppose I would have the least sensibilities to such things of any mammal here. After all the things I have seen and done, you should understand such a thing would seem quite harmless to me. Following my story tonight, you may have a better idea of what I am referring to." Reynard explained.

The downstairs consisted of several other rooms for entertaining and bathrooms. They kept glancing out the windows on the ground floor at the beautiful lush manicured lawn with many areas of seating.

"Let's try some of that champagne and I will show you the outside." Reynard suggested.

Judy wasn't paying attention when Drew popped open the champagne and she instinctively reached to her side for her tranquilizer pistol. They all three had a good laugh over that and Drew poured them all a glass of the bubbly and they followed Reynard outside where he showed them a long self-cleaning pool with bronze statues overlooking it. They noticed very high shrubs surrounding the entire property for maintaining privacy. The human and bunny commented on how much exercise they could get swimming laps in such a large pool.

As they came around to the front of the house the view was breathtaking with a perfectly manicured lawn landscaped with numerous shrubs and bushes. The home presented itself almost like an H shape except much wider. It was all in stunning white with marble walkways and the second floor was recessed enough from the edge that large balconies extended from the large corner rooms on the upper floor. As they headed around to the backyard they were greeted by a large veranda with greenery extended above it and all around. It had numerous sofas and recliners as well as a hidden barbecue and grilling area.

After the tour all the human could say was, "Wow."

His bunny companion echoed his sentiment, "Ditto. I had no idea places like this existed here."

Reynard gave them both a toothy grin, "It is quite lovely I admit. But this one is a bit open and insecure for my residence as you can imagine. I supposed it is a habit for me to be more comfortable living in a fortress. You will understand better shortly."

The went inside and collected a plate of fruit and snacks that had already been prepared in the kitchen and the chilled bucket with the champagne and headed back out to the veranda with Reynard sitting in one recliner and Drew in the other with Judy on his lap.

As they enjoyed sampling some of the snacks consisting of some muffins and similar sweets they settled in for a conversation.

Reynard: "I sent all the servants home except for outside security so we have complete privacy."

Judy: in awe "It does seem an enormous place for just the three of us."

Drew: "But we quite appreciate the privacy the same as you for similar reasons."

Reynard: "Ah yes, my secret couple. I heard an interesting rumor regarding your bunny companion though. There were some rumors about you being involved with an up and coming buck working for Kodiak."

Judy: sighing "I was afraid of that. He is not known as being subtle about his intentions."

Reynard: inquiring "I take it these rumors are just that?"

Judy: glancing at Drew "Yes. It was just a big misunderstanding and has turned into quite a mess."

Judy and Drew then told their friend the entire story of Finley.

Reynard: amused "Well it sounds like my nephew has been up to some mischief."

Judy: exasperated "Yes. It seems he can't help himself. I always have to be on my toes around him."

Drew: "We wonder if that is just an inherited trait or common to foxes."

Reynard: "I admit our species does have a tendency to enjoy a bit of devilment. I suppose I can admit it about my own species without appearing specist. But we also enjoy fun and merriment more than many others. Is there anything I can do to help with this situation?"

Drew: "Well I considered asking you, but I have grown fond of Finley even if he is aggressively trying to steal my love from me. But he doesn't know he is taking her from me or well anyone so I can't blame him for that. His methods are not what I would chose. I am not so outlandish or public… well not remotely like that… but I do respect his energy and drive. His target is quite worth the effort."

Judy: slightly pleading "If you have any suggestions that would not involve any harm befalling him we are certainly open."

Reynard: "I will have to think on that a bit. I know from the suggestions I have given you concerning these Protectors you may get the impression that I seek only bloody solutions to problems, but I do not harm innocents. And your Finley does seem to be one of these. It does not sound like I would have harmed him even if you had asked me to unless he has a darker side we don't know about."

Judy: "Well we would appreciate it if you can think of anything. He has the entire ZPD thinking he is my fiance. Well except of course for the few who know the truth. But he even had some of them convinced for a short while."

Reynard: "Well maybe I can look into the possibility of giving him a more available target. But Judy dear you are a hard act to follow. Finding another doe with your qualifications as a mate for this Finley is quite a challenge."

Judy: frustrated "Tell me about it. I very much wish I was not quote unquote perfect for his ambitions."

Drew: grinning at Judy "She is irresistible."

Reynard: laughing "She is that. Well I do happen to know many lovely does that are in the elite social standing he is looking for, not quite so lovely as Judy here mind you, but they could offer him that upwardly mobile path he so desires. If I make it known he is interested in a high value wife and make the right introductions then it might bear fruit."

Drew: "Well Judy offers him a kind of celebrity companion and he also seems to like that she is completely self-made from humble beginnings like himself."

Reynard: "I see. Well those qualifications are extremely hard to come by in any species especially a doe. I can see why Judy presents such an attractive target in so many more ways than just her beauty."

Drew: "I always said beauty fades. It is nice to have, but not remotely the most important thing. I fell in love with the person inside her bunny exterior long before I became enamored by the other. It was the bunny exterior I had problems coming to grips with. If she had been a human girl it really wouldn't have mattered what she looked like, I wouldn't have given it a second thought. But being a bunny is part of who she is and I wouldn't change that for anything now. It just took awhile for my mind to get past that."

Judy: looking for reassurance "But you did realize you were quite attracted to me once you finally committed."

Drew: reassuring "Most definitely bun. Sure it was weird at first, but I quickly got used to it."

Reynard: thoughtfully "Well I will do some research on the buck and see if I can find out more about him and what makes him tick. Maybe I can find some old loves from his past he needs to be reacquainted with."

Drew: enthusiastic "Excellent idea."

Judy: somber "I will do the best I can to not be so attractive to him. If he saw me in this dress I don't think I would ever get rid of him."

Reynard: "He would then see you in his mind at every one of his elite parties decked out in similar attire."

Judy: giggling "I can't imagine what Nick would think seeing me in this dress either."

Reynard: "Speaking of that rascal, has my nephew been having any luck of a romantic nature?"

Drew: "Well I am not sure how much luck he is having… he doesn't really tell us anything about his private life in that area."

Reynard: surprised "Not even his ZPD partner and best friend?"

Judy: "No… another reason why I say he is almost as frustrating as you are. But he has been seeing quite an amazing lady named Charlotte he met at the Gazelle concert."

Reynard: "Ah, I hadn't heard anything about that."

Drew: "Well she is truly lovely, but her personality is what really impressed me. She is a very extraordinary and gifted young lady with quite an amazing mind even though Nick couldn't take his eyes off that lovely red tail of hers."

Reynard: brightening "A fox? I imagine my sister would be pleased about that."

Judy: cautiously "Oh… no she is not a fox. She is a red panda. The prettiest one I have ever seen with a beautiful red striped tail. But Drew is right, her looks are just a small part of what makes her so amazing. She is genuinely one of the nicest and friendliest mammals I have ever met. I would have never seen someone like her with Nick, but he seems quite different around her. Just seeing how defensive about her he is really shows how he sees her as quite special."

Reynard: disappointed "Ah… I was hoping it was a vixen."

Drew: shocked "You disapprove of him having an interspecies relationship?"

Reynard: realizing how what he said must sound "Oh… oh no of course not. You do realize I own Tail Whip."

Drew: "Well it is not unusual for one like that to have no problem with that for others, but when it comes to their own family it is something else."

Reynard: "Ah, point taken. But no… I would only wish my nephew happiness wherever he can find it and it really sounds like he is quite smitten with this Charlotte."

Judy: "But you wished he was with a vixen?"

Reynard: "Oh… it was just something my sister wanted. She was hoping for some grandkits. I was hoping that would have helped her mentally. I just imagined her taking care of them would help heal her and make her happy instead of closed off and lonely."

Judy: "While I agree with you that she would love that. There are always options for them to have kits."

Reynard: "Really? Such as?"

Judy: "Adoption and this thing Drew told me about… artificial insemination."

Reynard: curious "Hmmm how does that work?"

Drew: "It is not widespread here, but it is still common for a lot of species with low populations that have problems finding mates of their own species. Males deposit sperm which is specially frozen and stored and then made available to females of that species through in vitro fertilization outside of the body and then successful fertilized eggs would then be replanted into the female. That is usually done only if the female is having difficulty getting pregnant. For say a bunny, it would probably be as easy as inserting the sperm inside her and letting nature do its job."

Reynard: "I see… so you have looked into that for yourselves?"

Judy: emphatic "No! I… no… of course we looked at it as just something that could be done far in the future. I mean my mom is still having kittens at her age. I have a very long time ahead of me if I wished to have bunnies of my own. I mean I would even consider adopting except bunnies to adopt are nearly impossible to find. There are so many bunny couples desperate to find a bunny to adopt that it has opened a whole underground black market that Nick and I have investigated and had to shut down. The thought of baby bunnies treated as valuable goods to be sold is horrific. It led to some kidnappings where the criminals tried to sell them. We broke that up and returned the bunnies to their parents, but it shows how incredibly rare they are."

Reynard: "Ah yes, I found the same thing even back when I was active. It is why it was really unheard of to have any bunnies as part of my kids. Jack Savage was the only one ever. He was an incredibly rare case. I still could have easily found him an incredibly loving adoptive family. Bunnies treat their children like the most precious things in the world especially those who adopt and can't have ones of their own. I only wish parents of other species like foxes were so loving."

Judy: sadly "It was so awful what happened to you and Marion. I can't believe even other fox families treated you so horribly."

Reynard: "Well… they merely treated us as vagrants. In their defense, times were very tough in that area and it would have been hard just taking care of their own families. They were only thinking about the welfare of their own which I can respect. I believe if we had been able to actually find a fox family that wished to adopt us, things would have been extremely different. Foxes generally treat their own kits quite well compared to many species. Even my mom did the very best she could for us when she was alive. I believe my sister did the same with Nick. Even with all her mental issues she never stopped loving him. Family is very important to foxes."

Drew: "With humans it really varies wildly. There are so many incredibly loving families and then many abusive ones. In human society we have many instances like you and Marion experienced. There are terrible cases in families where incest, abuse, rape and horrific living conditions exist. But then again there are so many wonderful loving families and very amazing adoptive families and even foster families. It seems humans are very capable of the best and worst when it comes to raising children."

Reynard: "Did you consider the possibility of raising a human child?"

Judy: "We did discuss that possibility. But Drew only saw that as a possibility if he knocked up a human girl as he put it and she was unable to raise it properly."

Reynard: "I take it that is unlikely."

Drew: "Well possibly in my past, but I was never informed of any accidents of mine like that. No… Judy could easily have kits of her own and I would be overjoyed and enthusiastically treat them as my own."

Reynard: "So you have discussed all this?"

Drew: "Well… just as like a daydream not as anything serious. Really we are just taking it minute by minute. With all the danger Zootopia is facing right now and the danger to both of us, the possibility of kids and that future is just some crazy fantasy. Any couple who feels like we do would discuss such things, but realistically I just hope we can survive the next year."

Judy: "Yes he is correct. I wouldn't want anything like that for a decade or more at least. I have dedicated myself to my career and the two of us barely have time to take care of ourselves let alone some kittens. This just came up because of the whole Finley situation. We probably wouldn't have even discussed it otherwise."

Reynard: "Ah… yes your unstoppable buck. I take it he has other plans for you."

Judy: "Yes… he would see me leaving the ZPD and raising his bunnies. Now I am sure it would be an amazing life for most other does. It would be living the finest of any in Zootopia with opulence, the finest of everything, rubbing elbows with the elite of the elite, the finest schools around and much more. I would imagine Finely would dote on me and the kittens. I would even think even though he was always quite busy he would find time for us much like yourself for Aza and the kits."

Reynard: "I see. You have given all this quite a lot of thought. Although I would imagine your mate there could do the same for you if he was so motivated. My human friend, you and I could build a true empire if you wished. The fruit and wine thing is just the tip of the iceberg as you humans say. The market is ripe for so much expansion and with your brilliant mind and knowledge of humanity I am sure I could show you how to build such an empire. You are young and with your many gifts what you could achieve by the time you are my age would so far surpass all I have done."

Drew: "I appreciate that and am quite flattered. I think you overestimate my abilities, but I can see some validity as well. But right now I am enjoying every free moment I can spend with my lovely long-eared love while trying to build a partnership between humanity and Zootopia to help save my species and allow it to survive and thrive in the future as well as help Zootopia. I can't see doing anything greater than those two things."

Reynard: "You are correct of course. But what about if these Protectors remove you from the equation removing you from your position?"

Drew: "Then yes… I did consider pursuing the other if I am unable to help directly. I would hope I could help indirectly do both. By providing a market and business for human ideas and goods, I could try and help that partnership with humanity while improving Zootopia. But… and I say this with all sincerity… spending as much time with this one here is just as important."

Reynard: "Ah… yes that is one thing I do regret looking back. I was so busy I missed spending so much time with Aza, Marion and my kits. I beat myself up thinking that if I hadn't been so absent I could have prevented what happened as I was not watching her close enough."

Judy: "She would have broken eventually. She was like what Drew said… a fractured egg. She needed to have been treated for the thing that happened when she was a kit so she was strong and would not break at the first sign of trouble."

Reynard: "I never looked at it like that. But it is also possible with a series of smaller breaks and then repairs she could have been stable enough to live a happy life. I never realized with her fragile state that an extreme trauma could be so devastating to her mental state."

Judy: "If you could have, would you have spent more time with your family?"

Reynard: "Yes… yes I should have devoted more time with them. I so tried… as I loved my time with them. It cleansed my soul every time I was with them. But spending all the time away helped so many others like what Drew is doing. But he is doing an amazing job doing both at once. Appreciate every moment you have together as it can easily be taken away before you know it."

Judy: "You are referring to The Protectors?"

Reynard: "No… anything can happen. Judy, you are a police officer. I know this is a much changed Zootopia than when I was growing up, but still it is a dangerous job. Also you saw the danger at the malt shop. You both could have been harmed or killed if things had gone differently. Things are very uncertain and you need to never take what you have for granted."

Drew: "I worry about her every day. I know she is an amazing ZPD officer, but she is little and very vulnerable. Sometimes I really wish she was a rhino or an elephant."

Judy: giggling "You think things are tough with our snuggle time now. Just imagine if I was one of those."

Drew: laughing "Well I didn't even think of that. But I just want you to be safe."

Reynard: amused "I was just putting that visual in my head. That certainly would present some problems. Now an elephant trunk and your mate's..."

Judy: making an icky face "Ewwwwwww..."

Reynard: laughing "It was just a thought."

Drew: slightly uncomfortable and hugging Judy "I think I quite prefer things the way they are."

Reynard: grinning "Every time I see you, you seem even happier with how things are with her. It really is something that amazes me… only with how unusual you too are and the great size difference. "

Judy: smiling proudly "We have just gotten better and better at making it work."

Drew: "I never thought it possible. I have never been so happy to have been so wrong. Oh… were you able to find anything on the job for Mayor… well the former mayor."

Reynard: "Yes, I had my people contact her and schedule a meeting about the potential position on Tuesday. I am considering talking to her directly on a secure line. I would not tell her who I was, but knowing her as I believe I do, I don't think she would be let herself be hired without talking to the person behind the scenes."

Drew: "That is an excellent idea. Just make sure she has some idea why you need to stay hidden, and I am sure she would respect your privacy as we do."

Reynard: curious "Can you tell me anything about the progress of my sisters treatment?"

Drew: "I can tell you we will need to have every detail you can provide regarding what happened to her to have a chance at success. Without knowing exactly what we are dealing with it does not seem hopeful."

Reynard: "I assume you don't need to be reminded of the rules."

Drew: "No. I would merely use the knowledge to push her in the right direction and not reveal what I knew or how I knew."

Judy: "I still don't see why you would be bound by an agreement she doesn't even remember ever making. She is so confused about why she has forgotten you, Aza and the kits and why she doesn't know what happened to any of you."

Reynard: "I take my commitments seriously especially with those I love."

Judy: "I guess it is just hard for me to understand. I could never see myself agreeing to not seeing any of those I love."

Reynard: "It is complicated. I quite doubt you would ever be in the same situation I was in. You will understand after the story. Oh I heard you had a run in with The Protectors."

Drew: surprised "You know about last night? I thought we kept that covered up."

Reynard: taken aback "I was referring to your meeting with the new Mayor."

Drew: "Oh… well with your resources I wouldn't put anything past you."

Reynard: inquisitive "Can you tell me what happened last night?"

Judy: looking at Drew who nodded at her "Since you already know about us I don't see why not. Even though it is active case I will make an exception simply because of the import of the information to you."

Judy and Drew then told Reynard what happened and the status of the investigation.

Reynard: thoughtfully "It is truly disturbing that these kinds of attacks and aggressive actions have already started. I imagine it will get much worse once they start flexing their muscle and pushing more of their agenda. I am just proud of my nephew and his dedication to fight and root out this hate. It is truly like a cancer that has infected our city and needs to be cut out as soon as it is spotted."

Judy: "Nick really was right. It was much bigger than us, and the ZPD needs to make sure the message gets out there that they will not tolerate such actions."

Reynard: "I only worry about when The Protectors start changing the laws and attempting to use the ZPD as a club to attack those innocent targets."

Judy: shocked "You think they mean to use us to enforce their hatred?"

Reynard: resigned "I am afraid so."

Judy: despondent "That would be the worst day ever."

Drew: troubled "I hate to think how Nick would react to that."

Judy: warning "He would not take it well that is for sure."

Drew: hopeful "At least there are still many mammals of all species in the city that see the hatred, bigotry and prejudice for what it is."

Reynard: "Well what did you learn from our new mayor?"

Drew: "That he seems to be a figurehead for the real power and decision makers."

Drew then described his meeting with the new mayor and his concern over these new requests by The Protectors.

Reynard: "You have a right to be concerned. I do suspect nefarious purposes by their motives to repair the reputation of humanity and attempts to become directly involved in the negotiations. I can easily see them wanting to send members of the Protectors or one of their agents through the portal to bypass your office. I can also see them wanting to bring human officials through to do the same on this end. The request for involvement in direct communication seems to be a request to be directly involved in decisions and possible interference. The high value goods seem to be a way to increase their coffers for all their plans. As far as the shopping lists, the sky is the limit with what they could do with harmful human devices. You will have to watch any requests for goods as closely as possible."

Drew: "My job was challenging enough during Mayor Le Pew's paws off administration, but it is a nightmare with The Protectors involved."

Reynard: "I am happy with taking out these Protector officials. I don't have such qualms with eliminating hate mongers and bigots."

Drew: "I fear it would do no good as they would just be replaced with more. Without getting to those behind the scenes it would be useless and only instill fear and panic in the public."

Reynard: "Well the new laws passed are already of great concern. The Protector Act gives this DD group the ability to bypass civil liberties and basic fundamental rights. The broad powers granted this DD group are extremely disturbing. And I believe this littering thing is just the first step in more restrictive laws."

Judy: depressed "Is there any good news?"

Reynard: "Only that they seem satisfied to work through the current Office of Human Affairs. But I am unsure how long their patience will last once you are trying to block some of their plans."

Drew: "Any update on our business venture with the import of produce."

Reynard: "Yes, a lot of the produce is now being actively grown. Some of them will take awhile to produce mature plants that can bear fruit. For example the banana plants take ten to fifteen months, pineapples about eighteen months. Even with advanced techniques the vineyards could take over a year to bear fruit. We brought pre-grown coconut trees in, but those will still take several years to mature, the same goes for our pre-grown citrus trees."

Judy: "We never had so many crops that require such long startup times as these. Most you would just plant and harvest in a couple of months."

Reynard: "Well all these more tropical fruits as well as grape vines do require a lot more special care and special growing conditions. But that is what makes them all so unique, rare and delicious.

Drew: "I really never thought about all these kinds of things until I became involved with a farmer's daughter and worked on this business venture. I would just go to the grocery store and take what I wanted from the produce isle or just buy frozen or packaged products with them as ingredients and not give all these details about growing them any thought."

Reynard: "I have learned in all my experiences and business ventures that you really need to understand how everything works to some extent. The city is like a living breathing being and it has all these systems just like our bodies and everything needs to be functioning properly or other parts will break down."

Drew: "I have always been interested in how everything works. Throughout my whole time since meeting Judy I have learned endless things I never expected to understand. I had never even wanted to understand the political and government process, but I have had to get quite the education about it as of late."

Judy: "And I learn so much everyday being around this one."

Reynard: "Well before we get into the serious matter of the payments, I had some curiosities about you two I was hoping to ask."

Drew: "I would have been shocked if you didn't."

Reynard: "I hate being predictable."

Judy: "Well just about that. You seem to have endless curiosities."

Drew refilled their glasses with the chilled champagne. The bubbly definitely helped to relax him and put him at ease. They had so much stress from last night and the past few weeks it felt quite good. Also things had changed quite a lot with respect to Reynard as they had many conversations with the fox after their last face to face meeting and they had become quite a lot more comfortable and friendly with him even though this was only their third face to face meeting. Well face to face relatively speaking since Drew's face wasn't even visible for their first brief meeting. Judy had been careful about not drinking too much, but she drank enough to feel quite relaxed as well.

Reynard: "Well I hate being predictable so I will asked a hard hitting personal question out of the gate rather than slowly working up to it."

Drew: grinning "Bring it!"

Reynard: "What have you been most disappointed with yourself about regarding your relationship?"

Judy: "Ouch. Well I suppose for me it was my behavior regarding Finley. I should never have tried to hide the fact that it was going on from Drew. And I should not have cared so much about what the buck thought about me or my ego to let it go so far as it did. I keep trying to hide my embarrassment or flaws from Drew and not being open about them."

Drew: "Bun, you know I would never judge you or be disappointed with you. You can tell me anything no matter how crazy. I have certainly told you some whoppers."

He leaned around her putting his head next to her and turned and gave her a kiss on the side of her face and a light squeeze.

Judy: confessing "I know… I am just not used to being totally honest with anyone. I was always careful about what I said around the burrow and warren especially after certain incidents you know about when I was younger. If you said the wrong thing to the wrong person, word got spread around quickly. The burrow and really all of Bunnyburrow was a hotbed of gossip."

Reynard: curious "What incidents were you referring to?"

Judy: "With some of my sisters who were jealous and could be cruel. Drew met some of them."

Drew certainly remembered meeting Sharlie, Shelia and a few other sisters who were quite disagreeable and spiteful to him because they had a contentious past with his love.

Drew: "Just a couple. The vast majority of her sisters and family have been nothing but supportive and overly friendly doing everything possible to help make me feel at ease and part of the family."

Reynard: "Ah the ego. Yes it can get you in trouble at times. Overconfidence and vanity were things I exploited in my enemies quite frequently. You have to accept these as flaws and work to overcome them."

Judy: "I am trying to work on them. I have been so overconfident and optimistic since I was a child. It will not be something I can overcome easily."

Drew: "I never want you to lose your optimism. It is what gives me hope. I admit I am a bit guilty of the opposite scale. I was a bit pessimistic and overly cautious at times. But being around Judy has helped me overcome those traits although I am still guilty from time to time. I tend to overthink things and see all the possible negatives which prevents me from acting due to worry."

Reynard: "How about for you? What are you ashamed about my human friend."

Drew: reluctantly "It would have to be the whole situation with the Lopps. I hate to bring it up just because of how it makes Judy feel, but I am still very disappointed in myself that it happened."

Reynard: "Lopps?"

Drew: glumly "Early in our relationship… I cheated on Judy with two cousins… two lop bunnies."

Reynard: "Shocking. That I would have never expected. I couldn't ever imagine you ever doing that knowing how you feel about her."

Drew: distressed "I felt exactly the same way. I didn't ever even consider it myself. And that was part of the reason it happened. I was overconfident in that situation, and thought I was invulnerable to anything like that ever happening."

Judy: explaining "There were quite a lot of extenuating circumstances. I realized he was somewhat to blame. But he was not looking for it, in fact quite the opposite. It was just a very bad set of circumstances that happened in exactly the wrong way to cause it to occur."

Reynard: engrossed "Fascinating… so you forgave him I take it. Did you punish him?"

Judy: "Well… in a way… but he punished himself far worse than I could have with guilt. Drew you have to tell the story of what happened. You can not let Reynard think what he must be thinking. Perhaps it was a situation like with your sister where things were beyond your control."

Drew: reluctantly "Very well. But I hate to relive that. I have been trying to block that whole memory."

Drew told the story in detail explaining the exact circumstances regarding all events and the causes why it occurred. Judy added a bit of information and hinted about the reputation of these lop bunnies and particularly the specific pair that went after Drew.

Reynard: "I see. Things were indeed quite a lot more complex than even I could have guessed. This negative energy makes you very vulnerable I take it?"

Drew: "Yes, in that case it made me desperate for relief and I did not recognize or even consider there was any danger. On many other occasions it has weakened me and it is very difficult for me to perform tasks or even speak. In the incident last night it crippled me. I am still having some headaches for brief periods but they are gradually going away."

Reynard: "Fascinating… you keep surprising me over and over. I can see how Judy can be quite helpful in that respect to calm and replenish you."

Drew: "Indeed, she has helped me many times. In fact she was the only person ever to allow me to get over the negative effects with respect to a romantic partner."

Reynard: shocked "So you never had any relations prior to Judy?"

Drew: "No… I did... I was able to use large amounts of alcohol to overcome the negativity and to block myself from feeling the negative feelings or projecting them. That worked, but it was very impersonal, base and primal in nature. It feels completely hollow and empty compared to what I have now experienced with Judy. I couldn't even remotely compare the two."

Reynard: "But then what happened with the Lopps girls? How were you able to overcome it when you were not drinking alcohol?"

Drew: "Simple. I did not see them as a romantic option. I had no apprehension I would normally have in that situation. I never thought it could happen or considered it even a remote possibility. By the time it happened I was feeding on the energy and emotional feeling and had no idea what was happening until much later."

Reynard: "There are many things that bother me about all the circumstances that caused all of this to occur. I suppose knowing my own mischievous mind I can't help but think my nephew was involved."

Judy gave Reynard a very intense glare and waved her paw back and forth to him as if to warn him but out of the view of the human.

Drew: "Oh well he was to some extent. That was why Judy punished him… but really that punished me just as much as I missed having him around."

Reynard: "Yes but..."

Reynard noticed Judy's glare and motions and got a curious look staring at her strange expressions and paw movements and raised one eyebrow.

Reynard: dismissing "Oh nevermind. It was just a stray thought."

Drew: "I think we deserve to ask you some personal questions as well. It would be only fair."

A distracted Judy seemed to realize what Drew asked and echoed his sentiment.

Judy: enthusiastically "Yes it is only fair."

Reynard: cautioning "Very well… but I will not answer anything which exposes part of my story that is untold."

Judy: "Drew asked me a similar question to this very soon after we first met. If you could, would you have changed what happened to Aza at that… that bad place you found her… or to Marion?"

Reynard: "A fascinating question my dear. I would have to say my answer does vary. With respect to Aza no. The experience helped make her the strong defiant young lady she became and helped mold her as she grew up. Also without the incident I would most likely never have met her. Now as far as my sister. The suffering that happened to her as a child greatly harmed her mind and continues to harm her. But without it the circumstances which led a desperate kit to join a ruthless gang of criminals and be driven to grow and perform to such a fantastical extent most likely would not have happened. It was the drive to protect my sister and also the drive to prevent similar wrongs from happening to so many other children that molded who I became and my actions to help so many thousands of lives. In addition without those exact circumstances Nick most likely would never have been born. But… saying all that, the circumstances which led to my sisters current status, her lost husband, her alienation from those who love her so much, her mental break and Nick's apparent problems all have led to nothing but pain and heartache for everyone and I see no possible benefit from what happened. That I would change if I could without a doubt."

Judy looked very sad thinking again of all the pain and suffering the whole situation had caused. Drew could sense her sorrow and tried to cheer her up.

Drew: trying to boost her spirits "Well we're trying to do something about that right sweetie?"

Judy: grinning at him "Yep… too much time has been lost."

Drew: "Since both of us have always had to answer your questions I feel it is only fair I get to ask one as well."

Reynard nodded to the human.

Drew: "Do you truly believe Aza was your one true love? And if you hadn't met her would you have gone the rest of your life denying yourself of any chance of love, happiness and kits of your own?"

Reynard: impressed "Bravo my human friend. Now THAT'S a serious question. Probably one of the toughest I believe I have ever been asked. And I am actually going to have to think a bit on that before answering you. I suggest we all take a break while I do so."

Reynard followed Drew and Judy down the hall and intercepted Judy as she was entering the restroom after Drew had already entered a different one. He led her down the hall and to an out of the way alcove out of sight where he could hear if Drew left the room.

Reynard: softly "I do have an answer to that question, but I made an excuse as I wanted to get you alone to ask about the circumstances involving the two bunnies and your mate."

Judy looked up him and gulped and then nodded.

Reynard: softly "My nephew was behind all that I suspect. It smacked of something he would orchestrate. But why would he do all that and why does your mate not know?"

Judy: softly "It is complicated. Yes Nick was behind everything and set Drew up so he had absolutely no chance to avoid what happened. The reason seems to be jealousy. He didn't want me to share such a huge part of my life and heart with anyone else and so tried to break us up. As far as not telling him, I didn't want there to be any animosity between them. Drew has truly loved Nick from the very beginning, and knowing that Nick was responsible for something that devastated him so much and still does even now… I just don't know if Drew could truly forgive him."

Reynard: softly "I see… I suppose Nick has always had a bit of a jealous streak in him… but I suspect it is also due to abandonment issues. As a child having his father abandon him for no apparent reason and his mother so troubled mentally… I suppose Nick may have felt the human was taking you from him and he would lose you like he lost his father."

Judy: softly "I… I didn't consider that. It makes a lot more sense now. At the time I guess he was desperate not to lose me. He just didn't realize how much he meant to me then and has always meant to me. I guess I should have done a better job convincing him I would not leave him even though I had Drew."

Reynard: softly "I could never see the human ever doing something like that to you on his own. It would have taken a master scam artist to arrange such a perfect storm of circumstances. I suspect you realized the exact same thing at the time. Is everything good now?"

Judy: softly "It is much better. Nick realizes Drew has no intentions of taking me from him, quite the contrary. Drew considers Nick a critical part of his relationship with me."

Reynard: softly "Your relationship continues to fascinate and surprise me constantly. The human continually seems to think and act unlike anyone I have known."

Reynard lifts his ear and turns his head.

Reynard: softly "I will distract your mate while you use the facilities. Wait just a moment."

Reynard walked down the hall and intercepted Drew who was waiting outside the door of the restroom he thought Judy went into.

Reynard: amiably "Ah my dear friend… how about I show you something I think you will find quite amazing from Zootopia's past. I am sure she will be along shortly."

The fox led the interested human down the hall to the study while Judy used the cover to slip into the restroom. Judy rejoined the two others outside as they refilled their glasses and she hopped back up leaning back comfortably snuggling into her mates arms who happily embraced her. She was quite happy the issue with Nick and the Lopps had been avoided.

Reynard: "Well let me get back to answering your incisive question my friend. The answer is yes… yes I believe Aza was my one true love. I did feel it was destiny that we met as well as the circumstances of our meeting. But as to whether I would have continued my quest if we somehow had not found each other. I suspect eventually I would have given in and found someone to create a family with… but I believe I would have carried an empty spot in my heart still hoping to find that one I was missing."

Judy: considering "It sounds so romantic… but also so sad. It is hard to think there is only person that could make you truly happy and love you like that."

Drew: "I thought all of that was nonsense myself until I met Judy. But I mean I considered all the other possibilities that could have happened and I still see that other options could have happened for each of us that could have led to some level of fulfillment."

Judy was giving Drew a bit of a disquieted look and seeing her look he quickly added.

Drew: "But saying all that I would point out that it would not have been a tiny fraction of what I have now with this gray bundle of fuzz."

Judy seemed satisfied with his additional caveat giving a slight nod.

Judy: "With the situation with Finley happening I did wonder a bit about that myself. But I realize I can't see myself in the same life the buck sees. I can't see myself happier with anyone else. Even with all the issues we have had to overcome, all the secrecy and sacrifices and now prejudice and bigotry, I wouldn't trade it for anything."

Reynard: "Well said my bunny friend. Too many keep looking for something better and don't recognize what they already have until it is too late."

Reynard: "Speaking of late… how about we get to that story as there is quite a lot to tell between the three of us this evening. We are already starting to lose light and there is much to cover."

Drew: "I suppose you are right. I could talk to you all day and night, but we have important things to get to. I have always wanted to say this after hearing it on so many television shows growing up… When we last left them, our heroes stood at the precipice of a monumental decision facing an unknown hostile force before them..."

Drew and Judy continued from the point they were waiting outside the government facility on human Earth describing the confrontation with the dog creature, the Colonel's encounter first meeting Judy, the discovery of the captured Zootopians, the He-3 containers, the transfer room and communicating with the Covenant, sending the Zootopians back, the confrontation with the human scientists, the attack by government forces and the escape through the portal.

Judy described the state she would be trapped in for the majority of the rest of the story and her horror and mental anguish. Drew described how he nearly went completely insane, what he could remember, and what sense his mind made out of what had occurred, and how only thinking of helping Judy and his feelings for her prevented him from going insane.

Judy told Tala and Finnick's complete story in detail and Drew described Nick's. Then they combined both groups to describe the events at the portal on the Zootopia side at West Plant and the confrontation with The Covenant forces. Finally they described the escape and battle at the front entrance and meeting with the ZPD, Chief Bogo and Nick. Drew covered the rest of Nick's story and led up to saving Judy from her mental prison and the clean up operations at the plant.

Drew: "Most of the rest you know from the coverage of the presentation Judy gave and the news reports on the capture of the rest of the Covenant forces."

Reynard: "Fascinating… I had no idea how much went on behind the scenes. The media coverage barely covered most of that and a lot they had was inaccurate. For example in many reports they described the human… you Drew… as battling the forces protecting Judy like you were some pirate from the stories with a sword and gun at your hip slashing and beating your way through the plant."

Drew: "I did have a gun… but not a human gun… just Judy's tranquilizer pistol. Yes I tried to correct them, but they would not listen and said the other made a much better visual for their narrative. I guess carrying Judy, keeping her protected and well fed, and shooting a bunch of Covenant in the back with tranquilizer darts was not as exciting."

Reynard: "It does sound like the media. It seems the truth is lost for what will make a better story."

Judy: "I have even heard that some reports said I had a mind link to my sister Tala and Drew during the battle and helped to direct them with my ZPD training. While the mind link part is true to some extent it was completely blocked until I was given the antidote. It also doesn't work that way and it is vastly weaker than they suggested. I couldn't do anything like that even if I was not under the effects of the serum."

Reynard: "They appear to take a grain of the truth and manipulate it for their own ends. Your sister Tala fascinates me as well. She was almost completely left out. I am so pleased to have heard her story."

Drew: "She has quite a lot of story left I suspect. I currently have her employed for The Office of Human Affairs and she has done amazing work for us. If I have any say in it, I would always want her by my side in any of my endeavors. She is the sister I always wanted."

Judy: "She and Drew have grown quite close. I have several pictures of her with Drew and myself."

Judy showed all the pictures on her phone with Tala to Reynard.

Reynard: smiling at Judy and Drew "She is a gorgeous bunny certainly."

Judy: looking bashful "You're too kind."

Reynard: laughing "Ah… yes… she is your identical twin. It is nice seeing you as a young bunny with so much promise and determination. I do see quite a lot behind that set of eyes of hers."

Drew: teasing Judy "I call her the brainiac version of Judy."

Judy: looking put out "It makes me sound dumb when you say that."

Drew: hugging Judy "It's just she is very cerebral. She is not as emotional. She is very logical and doesn't have hangups that others her age would. Tala is not as concerned with the opinions of others except those close to her. She is very well read and has an amazing thirst for knowledge and unquenchable curiosity. If I was not able to have her work with me, I would recommend her as a highly valuable asset for your business empire."

Reynard: surprised "I don't think I have ever had someone so young recommended to me for my business ventures."

Judy: "What about the bunny… Jack Savage?"

Reynard: "Well he recommended himself so that doesn't count. Also he wished to work for the not so legal part of my business, not a legitimate position. I promise to keep her on my radar and follow her career. If I have anything for her in the future, I will definitely let you know."

Drew: "Well I kind of want to keep her busy with legitimate business ventures. She seems to have gotten a taste for the con and scam game with Finnick. I really don't want her getting wrapped up in that."

Reynard: "There is something that gets your adrenaline pumping when you are on a good con. The same thing happens when you're on a heist or facing a deadly opponent. I know that feeling and have the same addiction. When you described her feelings when she runs, it told me she is quite likely an adrenaline junkie. If you don't want her harmed, you will need to find some outlets that have just enough danger for her to get her fix."

Judy: exasperated "Another junkie, really? First my love and now my twin baby sister?"

Reynard: looking confused at Drew "You're a junkie?"

Drew: "I'm addicted to extreme emotions of joy, happiness, ecstasy and euphoria. I get a similar feeling from it as someone on powerful human drugs."

Reynard: "I suppose everyone has their own addictions, but yours and Tala's seem to be more extreme."

Judy: "Well I have to admit I have a bit of an addiction to chasing bad guys. There is nothing like a good foot chase. Your nephew doesn't share my view on that though. I also love solving a good mystery and cracking a difficult case."

Reynard: talking to Drew "One thing I noticed between both your stories about your adventures is that there were quite a lot of hints Judy gave about how she felt about you. When did you know how she felt?"

Drew: "I guess I wasn't even looking for any signals until The Colonel brought it to my attention. You have to understand I have always had quite a lot of insecurities especially about such things. And then the species thing completely threw me as well. I was a pretty confused to be honest."

Judy: "He took so much work to convince. Female bunnies don't really have to do a lot of work to get the attention of bucks we like. Pretty much just talking to them and asking them personal questions will do the trick. I tried doing that with this human non-stop and it didn't seem to do anything except give me very long complex answers."

Judy giggled thinking of that.

Drew: "I admit I was clueless. I thought you were interested in the human world."

Judy: "I was… but you didn't notice all the personal questions I asked about you. What you liked in females. Your romantic history. That sort of thing."

Drew: "Oh… I guess I thought your were curious about human relationships. I freely admit I am quite naive about things such as that and recognizing signals females might be sending.

Reynard: "Your human friends, The Colonel and the scientist Mia, seem like such interesting and dynamic characters. I would love to meet them sometime and get their stories. I suspect they would have quite a lot to tell.

Drew: "The Colonel definitely… he has told me parts of his story and you are correct, it is quite riveting. I really don't know a whole lot about Mia's past. But she is certainly an extremely interesting individual."

Reynard: "It is intriguing to understand someone who's motivations are knowledge and intellectual challenges. I can see how the whole situation would have appealed to her."

Drew: "I do get a chance to talk to them regularly through the portal communication, but I would love to see them again sometime. I know The Protectors are pressuring me to bring some human representatives here and those two are the only ones I would really trust."

Reynard: "I suppose a friend you have trusted with your life builds a special bond like that. I know about such things as I have many of those kinds of relationships with Coal and several others I have fought alongside. You really don't know someone until you go to battle with them by your side and see how they react. That is how you determine who are true friends and allies and who are pretenders. Those who stick by your side when the times are at their worst are your true friends."

Judy: "That is the truth it took me a long time to learn. Going through what I did with Drew is how I knew he was the truest friend. What he sacrificed and all he did for me risking his life so many times. Nick has done that as well. He took on the whole Covenant by himself for me. We have had each other's backs since I have known him. I trust both of them with my life."

Reynard: "You are quite a blessed bunny."

Drew: hugging her from behind "She is quite lovable as well."

Judy: giggling "Awwww… it is so nice to feel so much love."

Reynard: "Well I say we eat some dinner since we finished the champagne off awhile ago."

Drew: enthusiastically "Sounds good to me."

Reynard: "You guys stay out here and I will setup inside."

Reynard leaves to go inside and setup the dinner.

Drew: "Having fun?"

Judy: "Yep… we should have come with a list of questions to ask him."

Drew: "Well if you can think of any we can ask him after his story or at dinner."

The couple chatted for awhile and their host came out and motioned them into the dining room where a whole variety of appetizers and entrees were prepared, some vegetarian and some for omnivores. Drew grabbed a chilled bucket of Aubert Eastside Russian River Chardonnay 2014 and filled everyone's glasses and Judy filled her plate from a variety of dishes offered her: Summer Squash Tart with Olives, Portobellos with Leeks and Spinach, Baked Mushroom Linguine, Wild-Rice-Stuffed Squash, Wild Mushroom and Spinach Lasagna and Butternut Squash Baked Risotto. She excitedly tried a bit of each to sample and sat at the end of the table where a chair had been raised so she would be at the same eye level as everyone else.

For the omnivores there was an offering of Seared Sea Scallops with Pomegranate-Dressed Salad, Crab Cakes "Repast-Style", Fruits de Mer Platter, Lobster Newburg, Scallop, Orange, and Cucumber Kebabs, Striped Bass with Tomatoes, Corn, and Basil and Cracked Lobster with Drawn Butter and Lemon. Both the human and fox selected from all the offerings a bit of everything. They toasted to everyone's good health and future, and enjoyed an amazing meal.

Judy attacked it with a gusto as she had been saving her appetite all day and it was getting fairly late for dinner so she was absolutely famished. She recommended her other companions try several of the vegetarian dishes as well and all ate until they were quite stuffed and satisfied. They all then helped Reynard put everything back into their original boxes from a private chef Reynard used. Their fox host then pulled out several boxes of desserts that been prepared for them and Judy happily gathered a variety of the fruits and chocolate delights. They carried these desserts, the unopened chilled bottle of Domaine de Chevalier Blanc 2015 from Bordeaux France in a bucket replacing the melted ice, a bucket of ice cubes and tongs, wine glasses and tumblers and the bottle of Glenmorangie 25 Year Old Scotch. All visited the restrooms and rejoined the others outside on the veranda.

All three tried a glass of the Bordeaux while Judy happily munched on the fruits and chocolates. Drew then pour some of the scotch over ice for him and Reynard to try. The fox took awhile to sniff it and pronounced his verdict.

Reynard: fascinated "I smell cherries, blackberries, plums, dates, chocolate and even coffee."

Drew tried to smell carefully and finally admitted.

Drew: "I kind of smell the fruity smell and a bit of other… but the human nose is quite lacking compared to your sophisticated sniffer as Nick often reminds me."

Reynard nodded and sipped the drink breathing in and sampling the flavors.

Reynard: "Very powerful and rich. I can taste the fruits especially the blackberries and red currants. It is a joy to just savor the flavors. Truly something again quite exceptional you have brought me to try.

Drew: "I love it as well, but I better not get used to it as it is another budget buster. We brought some of these in just for entertaining dignitaries and prospective executives for our goods and services. You would certainly qualify as a most special dignitary."

Judy was happily munching on her desserts. Drew let her sniff the Scotch and mentioned she was happy sticking with the wine.

Reynard: "Very well… I suppose it is story time."

Both Judy and Drew got looks of great anticipation on their faces and gave their host their rapt attention.

Reynard: "When we last left off a fox named John Wilde put my pregnant sister Marion in his car and drove off…"