Nick and Judy has done it. Again.
Within 2 years, they became the talk of the city for the third time.
At first, they bust Lionheart AND Bellwether, uncover the real dangers of Nighthowler, and basically save the city. You could say that Predator and Prey lived together in harmony in the last years, because of Nick and Judy.
Then, Nick becomes the first fox police officer, and once again, they give the press something to make a lot of money from. Everybody starts to have questions after he joined the force.
Can a fox do well in the police?
Why is a fox there to begin with?
Can natural enemies work together?
Maybe what we thought about foxes before are false?
Least to say, that Nick and Judy had countless of interviews and questions directed towards them, which they handed off masterfully, and in the end, there were very little amount of mammals that still doubted them. Nick's 'answer their question with your own question and answer that question' mantra seemed to work on Judy, and for once, she did not tear the city apart after her interviews.
But maybe now were they the biggest celebrities in the city. After the papparazzi photos, the talk show with Gazelle and Mrs. Wolford, not only the whole city was talking about them, countries from other continents, such as Zoorope, Zoofrika and Zoosia, have started to get to know this duo and their accomplishments.
First, Nick and Aaron drop the Interspecies Same-Sex couple bomb on the city, dividing it in the process. Everybody had a lot of questions and doubts about the whole idea of it. Soon, Judy follows them with her relationship with Charlie, intensifying the debates and gossips on the streets and on the internet. Then they clear out some of the questions on live television, just so Monica can create an other chance for Nick to become an even bigger celebrity; making him the most influential Wolf in the city, maybe in the whole world, without him knowing it.
Aaron knew that he had to explain to Nick his newfound power, without expanding his ego too much. He knew that if the fox discovered it himself, he would either not care about it or abuse it until it breaths. Both opinions would create just as much harm, so it was the timber wolf's task to enlighten Nick about what would change now.
He was currently in their shared bed, naked, hands crossed behind his head, looking at the ceiling amidst his thoughts. Somehow he managed to wake up so early, that his fox was still subtly snoring next to him. He decided that until their alarm rings, he would enjoy the peace and quiet, and organize his thoughts.
He looked at his phone and saw that it was 5 more minutes 'till they would normally have to wake up, so he decided to get up, careful not to wake his husband, and make breakfast for both of them.
He debated whether he should wear anything at all, knowing that Bushy tail would be more than happy to be welcomed by his naked husband with nothing, but an apron, but he decided that his favourite red boxers would do. After putting on the clothing in question, he walked into the kitchen and started preparing a refreshing breakfast, that he knew would more than satisfy his mate.
He still couldn't wipe that goofy smile from his face. Everytime he though of Nick as either his husband or his mate, he felt his body relaxing and a warm feeling spreading through it, signaling that it agreed with the whole conception. He knew that his body was the biggest indicator whether something was good or bad for him, and when Aaron was uncertain about something, he could always close his eyes and concentrate on his own body, and usually he would get a straight answer. Now he did the exact same, asked questions about Nick and him inside his head, and he felt his body almost becoming limp of pleasure. He even had to restrain a moan by the end, so he concluded that his wolf-being was the biggest supporter of Nick. Not that he complained.
He was shaken out of his thoughts by a knocking on their front door. He looked towards the sound with a raised eyebrow.
What mammal would visit us at 5 AM?
He quickly rushed back to their room, put on a shirt aswell so this super early visitor won't get uncomfortable upon seeing Aaron in almost nothing, although whoever was it, he might have just deserved it. He looked at Nick and sighed in relief when he saw that he was not bothered by the knocking, and was currently spread through the sheets like it was his. In the end, it was a half truth.
He walked over to the door, opened it, and his confusion just amped up by miles; a bunch of timber-wolves, female and male, old and young were forming a circle around the door mat, looking at him. He tried to find anybody who he knew, but all of these wolves were strangers to him.
''Ermm, what can I help you with?" asked Aaron with a tilt of his head. A very nicely dressed male wolf with brown fur, in around his 40s stepped forward.
''We are here to talk with Nick Wilde. We thought he lived here." Said the wolf in a heavily accented voice.
Aaron just smiled smugly and leaned on the door frame with his arms crossed.
''Well, the name seems to be ringing some bells, but nobody by that exact name lives here. I think you should try again." Said Aaron with a smirk.
All the timber wolves visibly became disappointed, and the fancy wolf seemed to show understanding and sorrow, but then another, female wolf stepped next to him, and whispered into the fancy wolf's ear. Aaron saw realization flash through his face, and a nervous chuckle escaped him.
''Sorry, then is there anybody by the name Nick Wildeford?" asked the wolf carefully. Aaron snickered and pushed himself from the door frame.
''Well comrades, you have a lucky day, because there just happens to be a fox by the exact name living here." Informed Aaron while clapping his hands for emphasize. He saw all the timber wolves relax from relief.
''Good, is he home? Can we talk to him?" asked the wolf in a nervous tone.
''Well, yes he is. He is playing sleeping beauty currently, but we have to wake up anyways, might as well get him." Said Aaron while turning on his heels, but suddenly, he was grabbed by an arm. He looked back questioningly and saw the fancy wolf inspecting him, while not letting him go.
''You seem oddly familiar to me. Who are you?" asked the wolf. Aaron raised an eyebrow.
''I am his husband, Aaron Wildeford. After yesterday, I thought you would know that." asked Aaron while the wolf let him go.
Suddenly, everyone gasped and knelt down while bowing their heads.
''Sorry sir for disrupting you in such a time, but we need to speak to Nicholas Wildeford." Said the bowing fancy wolf in a much more respectful tone.
Aaron at first was taken aback, then when he realized that this is probably a group of wolves who happened to be tradition followers. He had to restrain a facepalm and a groan, because he have met members of those groups, and they are annoying as hell. He started to think of ways to scare them away, but he already told them that Bushy tail was here, so there was no going back.
So he just rolled his eyes instead and closed the door. He started to walk towards their bedroom when the door of the room in question opened with a creak and a sleepy, yawning Nick stepped out. Not to mention completely naked, which made Aaron halt in his way. He let his eyes wander for a second, but he shook his head quickly before inappropriate thoughts could creep into his mind.
Focus, dumb wolf.
''Hey there Wolfie, have you woken up early or what? You weren't in the bed." Asked while rubbing his eyes and stretching. Aaron went over to him a squatted down.
''Yes, I kinda woke up early, and I thought I would make breakfast for us." Said Aaron with a warm smile. Nick was really adorable when he was half asleep.
''Aw, that's sweet of you, but I can't smell anything food related." Said Nick with a mix of confusion and tiredness in his voice while rapidly sniffing the air.
''Well, I wanted to, but turns out that you have some visitors." Said Aaron with an annoyed sigh. The disbelieving face Nick gave him was the least he expected.
''Visitors? At this time?" asked the fox, seemingly more awake after this strange news.
''Yeah, so put on something, and see what they want." Said Aaron while standing up.
He saw Nick groan and go back to the bedroom. After a minute or so, he came out in his own boxers and the loose light blue T-shirt he wore yesterday. Aaron knew that Nick wasn't his usual himself without his coffee, so he was a bit afraid that he would be a bit harsh with those wolves.
Nick opened the door and he had the same reaction as Aaron did before, with the difference that a slight frown appeared on his face, showing that he was not pleased by their presence.
Although even that changed back to confusion, when all the wolves knelt down before them and bowed their heads once again. Nick looked back at Aaron, who was rubbing his temples in annoyance, signaling to Nick, that he might have knew what was going on.
''Wolfie… what is this?" Nick with a raised eyebrow.
Aaron sighed in annoyance.
''Do you want the shorter or the longer version?" Said Aaron looking very annoyed.
''I want to drink coffee and eat a good breakfast right now, so short, please?" asked Nick while looking at his wolf pleadingly.
''Short version? Sure! You are the king of the wolves." Said Aaron nonchalantly. Although he realized that he should have worded it a bit better, since Nick's facial expression turned into really smug quickly.
Well, at least he will be a bit more welcoming.
''King of the wolves you say?" said Nick slowly.
''Yes, but as amusing as it would be seeing you on a golden throne while you command hordes of wolves, this is not something you can play with. I will explain it to you later, but I think we have a bigger problem here." Said Aaron while pointing at the 15 or so wolves still patiently bowing their heads before Nick and Aaron. Nick sighed, admitting that Wolfie did have a pretty valid point.
''Okay… So, what do you guys want?" asked Nick changing his focus to the horde. The Wolf in the fancy dress stood up and looked serious.
''Sir Nicholas Wildeford, my name is Lazlow Wilkokiełski, the Wolfski ambassador of Zootopia, and the leader of the Royal Wolf Knights, we came here to officially congratulate and recognize you as the king of Zootopia and Wolfska." Said Lazlow accompanied by an applause by the other wolves.
''Do I get a crown and everything?" asked Nick sarcastically, making Aaron snort.
''No sir, the official crown has been missing for decades, and in the modern age, monarchies are very rare, so we accepted the absence of the crown a long time ago, but if your majesty wishes a new one to be made, expect it within 3 days." Said Lazlow, showing no emotions, just seriousness and humility.
''Nah, I think I'm good. Golden and Yellow doesn't look good on me anyway." Shrugged Nick, looking at his wolf.
''Bushy tail, you know you always look good." Complimented Aaron with a wink.
''I know Wolfie, but you always think that. I want to look good to everyone." Retorted Nick playfully.
''You mean, you care about what others think besides me?" fake exclaimed Aaron while a putting his paw on his chest. As an answer Nick pretended to think hard about it, not losing his smirk.
''Now that you mention it, Nope, I don't." replied Nick, making Aaron chuckle. An idea popped into Nick's head.
''Hey Lazlow, buddy, what about Wolfie here? Is he gonna be something now since he is my husband?" asked Nick from the serious looking wolf, who seemed to lose from his stern tribute and think about it.
''Well, usually that answer would be a no, but since the wolf kingdom never had a family, who had two males as the Alphas, plus the fact that the modern age gave us more possibilities, and that traditions doesn't say anything about this occurence, I don't see why not, but first you have to appoint your husband." Said Lazlow a bit nervously.
After hearing that, Nick looked at Aaron with the best sly mask he has ever made. Aaron, upon seeing that, mouthed him a 'Don't you dare', but he should have known that it was already decided.
''In that case, yes, I would like to 'rule' with my husband." Said Nick slyly. Aaron could clearly hear that he did not take this whole king of wolves stuff seriously, he only saw it as a way to tease Aaron and maybe to make life more fun. Not that he blamed him, Aaron wasn't really into playing Kingdoms and Kings either.
Next he knew, that Lazlow was standing in front of him with the same serious expression. It made Aaron wonder whether his face hurt from being like this for such a long time.
''Sir Aaron Wildeford, by the power invented in me by the king of the wolves, Sir Nicholas Wildeford, I shall appoint you as the king of the wolves, where you will reign with your husband." Announced Lazlow, getting an other set of applauses from the wolves around.
Before Aaron could reply, they heard a loud knocking on the neighbour's wall.
''HEY YOU, WOLF! COULD YOU TONE YOUR TV DOWN A BIT? I CAN TOLERATE THE STRANGE SEX SOUNDS COMING FROM YOU, BUT IT'S 5 AM, SO PLEASE, SHUT THE HELL UP!" shouted the mammal, who Nick assumed was living there.
He saw Wolfie get red upon hearing that, and bury his face into his paws. The horde of wolves were chuckling and whispering between each other in a language Nick did not understand.
Must be Wolfski, which means that they all come from Wolfska. Huh, that would explain why they are here at so early.
He realized that while he was thinking, everyone turned their attention to him, waiting for an order or something.
''Ermm, okay, me and Wolfie thank you for all that, and if there isn't anything else for us, we would like to start our day." Said Nick quietly, while offering a friendly smile. He was relieved to see Lazlow, for the first time, smile back at him.
''Certainly sir. Have a good day. We will contact you later." And with that the horde of wolves with Lazlow on the lead started walking towards the elevator.
Nick and Aaron quickly rushed in and closed the door as quietly as they could. After closing it, Nick crossed his paws behind his back and looked at his wolf in an expectant smile.
''Wolfie, you know, I'm in need for some bedtime stories. Could you tell me the story behind the meaning of this? I heard it's a good one." asked Nick while slightly leaning towards Aaron, his smile was giving Aaron the creeps.
The timber wolf just sighed heavily.
''That was, as you heard, the Royal Wolf Knights. This group has always been the right hand of every Lupine queen and king in the medieval times. You could say that they were the Upper house, the Parliament, the Senate, all that and more." said Aaron while they walked into the kitchen.
''They served all the Royal Wolf families around the world. The biggest kingdoms were here in Zootopia and the far away country of Wolfska. As far as history goes, only these two kingdoms survived, the rest were overtaken by other kingdoms ruled by other species. Then, when democracy started to spread, Zootopia joined in, but somehow they never fully abandoned the Monarchy, it was just really forgotten." Told Aaron while he resumed the breakfast making, while Nick sat down at the kitchen table and listened to him with great interest.
''So Zootopia is a Republic and a Monarchy at once?" asked Nick. He started to understand what his wolf was onto.
''Well, if you want to follow all the laws and the constitution very strictly, then yes, but only some of the wolf population and the Royal Wolf Knights remember this, everybody else thinks it's a simple republic." Told Aaron, while not removing his focus from the breakfast.
''And how much power does the ruler really have? I mean, if the Monarchy was forgotten that easily, something must have happened." Inquired Nick. Aaron snorted, knowing that the hustler inside was talking now.
''Yeah, after the revolution in Furrance way back in time, Zootopians realized that the ruler can be easily overtaken, and so they started threatening the queen who ruled at the time. In the end, an agreement was made; The Monarch will still be a thing, but her powers will be limited to almost non existant, and the main state form would be republic. Over time though, they forgot about the Monarch and the whole deal, and acted like there was never a Monarchy to begin with." Said Aaron while he was half way through the sandwiches. He wanted to make something better and tastier for Nick, but he didn't have time after their unexpected visitors.
''So what you are saying is that basically nothing will change, expect all the wolves in Zootopia and that far away country will respect us more?" asked Nick with a snort. He actually found this whole thing ridiculously funny.
''If I'm honest? Yes. By the way, thanks for dragging me into this." Said Aaron with a playful glare.
''Hey, we ride together, we die together. And don't tell me that the idea of ordering Bogo around does not make you satisfied." Retorted Nick with a sly smile.
''Well, if you put it that way… Plus it would be good to have an Ace in my sleeve when Richard, Terry and Michael from the Precinct try to mess with me." Concluded Aaron with a chuckle. Nick at first didn't know who was he talking about, but then realized that there were 3 more wolves working in Precinct 1, and with their newfound title, they could even enslave them. Not like he wanted it, but Aaron did have a point.
In the mean time, the wolf finished making their breakfast and sat down on the table facing his husband. He gave him his coffee that he managed to make before Lazlow came, which the fox accepted with a wide smile. Aaron himself never drank coffee, he found its taste and smell unpleasant, and it somehow made him twice as tired as he would normally be, but he always had a coffee maker for when his mom or his friends came over.
Nick, before he started eating, leaned forward and gave his husband a light 'thank you' kiss on the lips, which the wolf made sure to contain a growl to tease his fox, since he knew how much of a turn on was it for him. From the change in the fox's smell, he succeeded.
After they began eating, Nick, as much as he really did not care about this newfound title of his, started to think about all the fun he and Wolfie can get out of this whole scenario.
So. I, a fox, am the king of the wolves and basically Zootopia, without being actually a normal king… Well, at least I can get some fun out of this with Carrots, Chocolate cake and maybe Bogo.
Then a question popped into his mind.
''Say Wolfie, who was the king or queen before us?" asked Nick, making the wolf stop in mid-bite. He looked at him like it was the stupidest question he has ever heard. Nick became wary when Aaron burst out laughing.
''How do you think a Monarchy changes rulers?" asked Aaron between laughs.
''Well, either the ruler dies or resigns…?" asked Nick slowly and carefully.
''Exactly. I will give you two hints; First, the last ruler was a queen and she did not die, thankfully. Second, think of last night, the show of Gazelle." Hinted Aaron. Nick thought for a sec and it immediately clicked.
''You mom?!" exclaimed Nick with wide eyes.
''Bingo! What do you think she was doing when she knelt down before you? She basically resigned there and gave you the title." said Aaron, gesticulating with his hands to emphasize. Nick looked at him with mouth agape, but he admitted that it all made sense.
''But why?! As an apology? She could have just said sorry, and it would have been all water under the bridge." Mediated Nick with disbelief in his tone.
''That's the other thing, because I don't know either. I guess she felt really bad, and thought she didn't deserve her title?" asked rhetorically Aaron.
''But wait, you said your family is noble, not royal. I-I am not very good in this topic, but even I know, that there is a big difference between the two." Asked Nick with a tilt of his head. He had a feeling that he would be having a small chat with Monica.
''Yeah, well, the Wolfords were nobles for hundreds of years, till the beginning of the 1900s." informed Aaron while he resumed eating his sandwich. He saw Nick nodding in understanding, but he still looked like he still had more questions.
''Do you know the Howlington family?" asked Aaron, getting the attention of Nick.
''Well… I can remember that I hustled some of them back in the day. They are pretty dumb, and if one reaches the age 40, they become not only stupid, but snob aswell." Admitted Nick getting a snort out from Aaron.
''They are the second most influential wolf family in Zootopia. My family and them were always rivalling for estates and privileges. Then the queen gets overthrown and now we fight for the throne, that basically means nothing. We needed a hundred more years to realize, that it indeed did not mean anything, so we made a deal. The Howlingtons would rule in Wolfska, while the Wolfords rule in Zootopia." Told Aaron nonchalantly.
''But wait, Lazlow said that we are the king of Wolfska aswell, didn't he?" asked Nick with a tilt of his head.
''Well, after the modern age came, the Howlingtons decided to move back to Zootopia and join the Electronic Industry, so they gave my grandmother the throne of Wolfska, which is still a Monarchy…" said Aaron with a wide sly smirk and obvious hinting in his voice. Nick looked at him questioningly then it dawned on him.
We have full power in Wolfska.
His face copied Aaron's.
''If somehow I manage to lose our little bet, I think I know where our honeymoon will be." Said Nick with an almost evil chuckle.
They finished eating, put on their detective uniforms and went to work. They had to hurry, since with their unexpected encounter with the Royal Wolf Knights was enough for them to be almost late. They lived in Tundratown, so they had to take the train to Downtown.
That's when they experienced the first signs of being a celebrity; they would catch the occasional dreamy stares from other passengers, even catch some mammals taking pictures or excitedly talking to somebody about them on the phone. At first they thought it's gonna be a bit uncomfortable, but then they realized that it was physically impossible next to the other's comforting presence. Some braver passengers would talk to them, ask some questions, ask for an autograph or even take a selfie with them. Nick and Aaron actually kind of enjoyed it, and the fact that the hostile glances seemed to be less and less towards them made it all the better. There was even one bear mom who came and asked them to explain to her 5 year old cub how homosexuality works and why he shouldn't get disgusted by them or look at them in a different light.
And then there were the wolves they met. They could count on one paw all the wolves that did not try to make a conversation with them on the way. They were oddly respectful to them, but they guessed that they knew about them being royals now. Aaron and Nick of course tried to ease everyone out, telling them to stop calling them sir and majesty, and act like normal mammals, which in the end they tried, they really did, but Aaron and Nick could see all of them struggling to not bow before them, and praise them like there is no tomorrow.
Was it scary? Yes, yes it was. They had no idea what was going on with those wolves, and they were sure that it wasn't normal.
Was it weird a bit? Yes, yes it was. They were always looked down in a disrespectful light, but now everyone suddenly treated them like gods, it was a bit too much to take. Plus the fact that none of them cared that Nick was a fox just gave them more questions.
Was it amusing as hell? You got that right in the bullseye mate. As new as it was, they couldn't deny how happy they were. Not only did they got respect from others, and was (most of the time) looked at in a positive light, all the compliments and praises were directed towards them, and for some reason, this pretty small detail managed to always bring them to the edge of publically kissing. But as long as they were in uniform, they knew that they couldn't do it, unless they wanted the IA's wrath and of course another round of that internet fiasco.
Sadly, they had to skip Rufus' bakery, since they were that out of time. In the end, they managed to arrive just on time, and since they ate breakfast, they weren't that hungry. When they opened the door for the bullpen, it was the same old bullpen that they come to love; noisy, full of activity and had a great atmosphere.
They walked over to the front row where their seats were placed. Aaron in the mean time managed to make McHorn agree to swap seats, so the wolf will always sit next to Judy and Nick. He saw Nick already telling Judy about their new title, so he just waved at her and started thinking about random stuff, letting his fox talk. He actually thought about asking Nick to try and sit in Aaron's lap while the assignments were given, but there was too much problem with it; the chief would definitely not like it and he did not want Judy to feel like he was stealing his partner. In the end, it all started with them, and if it weren't for Judy, Aaron would never have gotten the chance to meet Nick.
His train of thoughts were interrupted by a light tapping on his left shoulder. He looked to his side and saw Nick smiling at him. Aaron wanted to smile back but then he saw that it was not a happy smile, it was pleading smile.
''Hey Wolfie, Carrots here doesn't want to believe that I am really king of Zootopia. Could please back me up on this one?" said Nick while petting his husband upper arm.
''Oh come on Slick, you can't seriously believe that I'm going to believe your story. It is ridiculous from every angle." Said Judy while giggling. She thought it was just his ego showing itself, and all that story about him being the king of the wolves is just another fiction of his. Although when Aaron did not chuckle, but smile at her in a very Nickish manner, she began to feel very uncertain.
''Well, she is right, Bushy Tail." Said Aaron with that smirk. He was really amused when he saw Judy sighing in relief and Nick looking like at him in a face, that screamed 'betrayal'-
''She is right, because you forgot that you dragged me into this, so we are the kings." Said Aaron, and had to restrain a chuckle when he saw Judy looking at him incredulously, and Nick snickering upon realizing that he was fooled.
Judy crossed his arms and harrumphed.
''Pfft, not like I believe you guys. I have never heard any of this, and believe me, I did my homework on Zootopian history." Mumbled Judy stubbornly while looking at them sternly.
''That's the thing, you should believe it." Said a very familiar voice coming from in front of them. Nick and Judy got so scared upon the sudden voice that with a yelp, they fell off the chair to both sides with a thud.
They quickly recovered and looked at the mammal in a scolding manner, which quickly turned into a simple roll of their eyes and an annoyed sigh when they saw that it was their favourite painted dog, Charlie, leaning forward while supporting his upper body with his elbows and wearing a very smug smile.
''Chocolate Cake, next time you plan on scaring us like that, could you please notify us?" asked Nick while jumping back to their seat.
''If I did, where would be the fun in that?" mocked Charlie, getting a chuckle from Aaron.
''How did you even sneak up on us without this cute little bunny hearing you?" asked Nick while stealing a glance at Judy, who flinched upon hearing the c-word.
''I am a trained ZBI agent aswell, I know how to make no noise at all." Said Charlie without losing his sly smirk that honestly made Nick a bit proud.
''Anyway, if I'm correct, you have been visited by the RWK?" Asked Charlie, moving his focus to the chuckling wolf next to the pair.
''Yeah, although why they had to do it at 5 fricking AM is a mystery to me." Said Aaron while shaking his head.
''Well then, I have a question to you guys. Since you are the second most influential mammals in theory, I want to know how seriously are you taking this, because that would change a lot of stuff between us." Said Charlie in a serious manner. Aaron and Nick wasn't scared the least bit, looked at each other and smiled.
''Let's just say, that we take it seriously enough to use it only as an Ace in our sleeves when needed." Said Nick while leaning back in his chair.
''In other words, not at all, as I expected." Chuckled Charlie.
''Wait, are you seriously telling me that what they are saying is actually TRUE?" exclaimed Judy a bit too loudly, getting the attention of some of the surrounding officers.
''Judy, I know it sounds unbelievable, but yesterday Aaron's mother really did give Nick the royal title, and yes, there is a royal title that hasn't been revoked." Said Charlie. Neither of them noticed the eavesdropping officers look at them in a confused manner.
''Oh god, yet another way to feed this fox's already huge ego. Next thing you are going to tell me, that they have the power to tell Bogo what to do." Complained Judy with a groan.
''They do, but I know they won't use it." said Bogo's voice suddenly. The four mammals looked at him in surprise. Nick's heart almost jumped out of it's place.
I can understand when Chocolate cake sneaks up on us, but how did Bogo get in without any of us noticing? Shouldn't Higgins notify us when the Chief is about to come?
''Chief Bogo? You are back?" asked Judy with wide eyes.
''Indeed. I'm gonna be honest with you, I only went on a vacation to fix my mistake that I'm sure you all have heard about." Said Bogo while looking through his precinct. Every nodded in understanding.
''Were there any problems while Deputy Pictus has taken my position?" asked Bogo. He grunted in approval when he saw everybody shaking their heads.
''I'm going to be quick today, because I have important things to attend to, so..." said the Chief after walking to the podium.
''Fangmeyer, McHorn, Snarlof; investigate the series of robberies in Sahara Square, Johnson, Grizzoli, Delgato, Tundra Town SWAT…" and so the chief gave everyone their usual assignment, but his hurry was obvious.
''…Hopps, Wilde, Wolford, Pictus, you stay for a second." Said Bogo, while putting his hooves behind his back and waiting for the remaining officers to leave the bullpen. The four mammals in question looked at each other, their uneasiness being all time high.
Bogo watched as the last officer left the room, his focus shifted to the mammals before him. More accurately, to the painted dog, who felt a little bit uncomfortable under the chief's emotionless but somehow still stern gaze.
''So, Deputy Pictus, as you may know, I fulfilled the ultimatum you gave me about taking drastic measures if I don't get Wolford back to his family. So, are we good?" asked chief while offering his right hoof. Charlie looked at the extended arm a bit hesitantly. Bogo did a horrible thing, but he did manage to make everything right in the end, so the only thing he could hold against the Chief is the memory of his wrongdoing. So he accepted the hoof and shook it.
''Sure chief, I hope you learnt your lesson." Said charlie calmly while giving the buffalo a light smile. Fort he first time, Bogo actually showed a slight hint of happiness.
''Splendid. Now for the reason I kept you here; As a reward for your incredible work as detectives and Deputy Pictus' more than satisfying work as a Chief, plus the fact that I know about Wilde and Wolford's new title as the Monarchs of Zootopia, which I suppose will need some talking and explaining, I decided to give you four days paid leave to all four of you, starting now." Declared Bogo without a single emotion in his deep voice. The four mammals before hims froze in time then cocked their head to the same side at the same time in confusion. Bogo was amused by how synchronzied they were.
''What?" asked Aaron suddenly.
''But Chief, we haven't done anything detective related, we haven't even gotten a case yet!" exclaimed Judy, anger slowly overtaking her voice.
''I'm with Carrots on this one Chief, and that's saying something." Said Nick absolutely cluelessly.
Instead of answering, the chief took out a small remote controller from his pockets and pressed a button on it. The projector's lights started to flicker and the machine itself slowly but steadily showed a picture on the wall, where usually photos of criminals were projected to. The four mammals looked at it, and analyzed the photo; it was a simple diagram, that had two columns, one way bigger then the other.
''You are right Hopps, you didn't do anything exceptional that would have been connected to a regular detective's work, but in the mean time you might not have noticed that your regular beat cop work was doing immensely good for the city. Take a look at this diagram on the wall. The left column is the percentage of crime in all of Zootopia 2 weeks ago. And now take a look at the other one, what do you think it is?" asked the chief patiently. He knew that these four wouldn't just accept a random paid vacation, even Wilde would at least need a good reason for it.
In the mean time the four mammals were focusing very hard on the meaning of that smaller column, trying to guess what it could be about. They did not needed much more time, since it clicked to all four.
''That's the crime rate after we became detectives?!" exclaimed Aaron, Nick and Judy at the same time. Even Charlie was shocked beyond belief, because if it is true, these three did a much better job than Charlie originally thought they did.
Note to self, never underestimate these three, ever.
''Exactly. You three single-handedly managed to lower the crime rate by 13% in all districts of Zootopia, and it just keeps decreasing. That's why I decided to reward the three of you, because this was much bigger than just breaking the precinct's records." Informed Bogo in a proud tone. He saw the three look at the diagram in deep thought.
''But wouldn't that be bad then? I mean, if we went on a break, wouldn't the crime rate go back up?" asked Judy with here ears drooped. She finally saw the first signs of her actually making the world a better place, but if she learnt something from Nick, is that naivety is dangerous. Very dangerous.
''Hopps… you know you won a war, when even Duke Weaselton decides to abandon crime and become a waiter in a fast food restaurant." Said Bogo with an actual chuckle. Judy's ears straightened out and she started giggling upon imagining that weasel in a waiter apron and with a fake smile. Soon Nick and Aaron joined in aswell, while Charlie watched them in an amused smile. Bogo gave them some time to marvel on the thought, but he soon decided to send them away.
''Okay, okay, enough. So, are you gonna stop being stubborn and accept your reward, or do I have to call in Clawhauser and tell him that you are in need for some history on Gazelle." Asked Bogo changing to a serious tone. Upon hearing the most horroristic means of torture possible, they quickly stopped laughing and nodded rapidly with a scared face. Charlie heard about the cheetah's passion for the singer, and he heard officers landing in hospital because of him, so he decided that he would not want to undergo that.
''Splendid. Change back to your regular clothing, and don't let me see you around the precinct, or I might just assign Clawhauser to follow you around." Threatened Bogo, making the four mammals gulp in front of him, making them nod again.
''Dismissed." And with that the four of them bolted out the room faster than Bogo could blink.
He sighed in relief and took out his phone and started to dial a number he recently added to his contacts.
The line got through and sounds of children giggling could be heard through the line.
''They are on their way, Mrs Hopps. Now about those baby pictures…"
The four mammals quickly changed to their regular clothing, even Charlie decided to abandon his beloved jacket and jeans, and wore something casual for a change. Next to these three, he started to get comfortable in his easy-going attire, which never really happened before. The four were now sitting in Charlie's car, Charlie behind the wheel, Judy sitting in the front seat, and Nick sitting in Aaron's lap, the wolf tightly hugging the fox to himself like it was the last time they could be this close. They were sitting in the idle car, thinking of what could they do with their sudden free time, because none of them planned anything special for not just today but for the next day or so.
''No, Carrots, with Chocolate pudding here, we won't visit Fru Fru." Said Nick in a scolding tone.
''Because of me? Who is this Fru Fru again?" asked Charlie in a confused voice. The name did ring some bells in his mind. And after seeing how nervous Judy become, he knew that it might not be the good bells.
''Fru Fru Big, daughter of Luciano Big." Informed Nick. This other name rang much more bells in the painted dog's mind, that he was starting to get annoyed. He had definitely both heard those two names numerous times, but who-
The Big mafia.
''Judy, you are friends with the daughter of a crime boss?" asked Charlie in a tone that neither Judy nor Nick or Aaron could salvage whether it was impressed or absolutely outraged.
''W-well yeah, I did kind of save her life, and for that, Mr. Big might have gave me his eternal servitude." Explained Judy with a nervous chuckle. She thought Charlie was actually going to be at least mad but he seemed… pleased?
''Fascinating, I wonder how Bogo haven't got wind of that and threatened you already." Said Charlie with a calm and pondering voice.
''W-wait, you are okay with that?" asked Judy while looking at the painted dog with a shocked expression. Charlie smiled and planted a kiss between here ears, making Judy absolutely flustered.
''Well, being friends with the mafia is not exactly against the law, and you do have your right to remain silent. I have already told you; if it's legal and done I can't find the urge to care. Who knows? This friendship could be useful for both the mafia and the police aswell." Admitted Charlie with a shrug. He did not notice the three mammals in the car looking at him in awe.
''Chocolate Pudding, how did we get so lucky to have you as a boss?" asked Aaron in his total astonishment.
''How did I get so lucky to have such a special team under my care?" retorted the painted dog, getting grateful smiles from his friends.
Then an idea popped into Judy's mind.
''Guys, how about we make that trip to Bunnyburrow we promised to mom?" asked Judy excitedly, making the three canines look at her.
''That's… actually not a bad idea. Wait, Chocolate cake is coming too?" asked Nick.
''Well, he did kind of manage to get an invite himself. Long story short, yes, mom wants him to come aswell." Explained Judy.
''Is there a problem, Nick?" asked Charlie sarcastically. Nick smiled upon hearing his first name from Charlie for the first time.
''Absolutely not, at least we all will get overrun by Carrots' huge family." Replied Nick, making Judy snort.
''Wait a second." Said Nick suddenly in a wondering tone, his eyes widening, making everyone look at him questioningly.
''Bunnyburrow… Hopps farm… Hopps blueberries…Blueberries, BLUEBERRIES!" exclaimed Nick excitedly, his tail wagging in Aaron's lap. This sudden childish excitement from Nick made even Charlie chuckle.
''Oh yeah, have I told you Bushy tail, that I got permission to go and harvest blueberries directly from the bushes, and then we can eat them freely?" mentioned Aaron. He saw his husband's head slowly turn towards him, a huge smile on his face.
''You sir, just earned yourself this." And with that Nick kissed Aaron passionately. The wolf was taken aback at first but he did not struggle, and hugged the fox closer to himself, enjoying the way his excited husband overpowered his tongue and explored the wolf's mouth. Soon the wolf evened out the fight and now they were both dancing with their tongues. They were of course careful not to go overboard, because it was their boss' car in the end, but it didn't mean that they couldn't make sure to be as passionate as possible.
Nick suddenly disconnected their mouths, rested his head on Aaron's chest, and sighed in contentment.
''What would I do without you Wolfie…" mumbled Nick while closing his eyes and listening to his husband's rapid heartbeat. Aaron just smiled warmly and started to rub his fox's head gently, getting a subtle purr out from him.
Charlie and Judy witnessed the lovebirds interacting and they both were thinking of different things. Judy had to restrain herself harshly from Aww-ing on the sight. She knew she was a hypocrite, but goddamnit those two were just adorable, and the way they smiled at the other was making the bunny fangirl more. Meanwhile Charlie was actually thinking that one day, him and Judy could be like this.
One day… when the perfect opportunity comes
Then he realized that they going down to the burrows, which could be the perfect time he was searching for.
I will have to plan that though… and I think I already have a good idea.
Before you ask;
Wolfska=Polska=Poland
Wolfski=Polish
Lazlow Wilkokiełski= Lazlow Wolf-O-Fang
Furrance=France
No, I'm not polish.
Yes, I know Poland is not a Monarchy.
