In the Paws of the Servants (Part 2).
Daily life in the great city of Zootopia was nothing it was before, at least for those that decided to test their luck dating another species. Younger generations normally were hardheaded and did things to provoke their parents' anger. But these days such actions earned a different wrath and this was more than a simple slap on the paws. One mixed specie couple put on their Muzzlebook page a video showing them having an intimate moment and daring the Servants of Truth to make an attempt to stop their relationship, ending the video with a long French kiss. Next morning both were discovered dead in their separate bedrooms in their parents homes that were on opposite sides of the city.
At a concert many young mammals danced with different specie partners, holding signs with words declaring they had free will to choose their partners if only for a fun time. Before the end of the concert a small plane crashed into the audience, its fuel flowed out amongst the mammals spreading the flames throughout the crowd. Death toll was high and among the maimed it was even higher. Tv stations' *breaking news* segment played videos obtained from the many security cameras that showed the scene from many angles, especially the moment the aircraft crashed and its aftereffect. Reporters interviewed as many concert-goers that would answer their questions, working their web of words to hype the emotions of viewers.
In a secluded retirement community several elderly mammals decided to date those not of their species, finding comfort in the paws and hooves of those they otherwise would never be caught dead with. With age come wisdom and elder mammals kept their relationships in private, not counting walking along the streets holding paws and hooves. They also went to restaurants and shopping malls, ignoring the stares of their fellow elder mammals. Violence struck these mammals: some found themselves victims of a gas attack as an odorless toxin flowed out of the ventilation ducts, first responders' efforts proved in vain. Some were attacked by their fellow elder mammals and while these were arrested they were heard chanting claims against unnatural relations.
On the evening news the same spokesmammal that hijacked the broadcast days before gave a stern warning declaring this was just the start of their efforts to cleanse the mammalian world of improper relationship.
On nearly every college and university students found their teachers promoting the ancient teachings regarding relationships, something that wasn't on the agenda last semester. When they inquired the faculty said new policy was to err on side of caution since nobody could identify who was a member of the Servants of Truth. Naturally some students rebelled and kept their mixed specie dating. It wasn't only the students that were under scrutiny; the teachers themselves were being closely watched. Certain teachers displayed subtle disapproval towards students openly engaging in mixed specie dating, especially openly expressing affection. Teachers that made such negative disapproval were openly questioned by many students, making claims these teachers were possible members of the Servants of Truth. Some teachers vehemently objected to the accusation, others merely remained silent having a wry look upon their muzzle.
It wasn't only the education system that mammals were being accused of being possible members of the Servants. In public places mammals were accused of being members of the Servants if they expressed disapproval against any relationship. Same occurred in recreational areas both indoor places and out in nature, making an increase in tension between species. If this was the intended effect the Servants wanted there was no observable communication one way or another, exception being those who continued open affection in public soon found themselves dead by suspicious means.
ZNS Tigershark moved slowly through the murky waters off the Tri-Burrows coast, its electronic equipment focused on the seabed before it. This was a new addition to the sonar that modified it to map the seafloor and cliffs; something Captain Nemo was warry about the new equipment and its power consumption. If it delivered what Dr. Bevyton and the GSD claimed it could then it would be an interesting addition to his attack vessel. Having the ability to go into hostile waters was nothing new to the Lynx, creating maps of an enemy's coastal waters without them being aware was a risk the Pentagon was willing to take. If this mission was successful he would strongly recommend upgrading his power plant, perhaps upgrading the cooling system as the sweat on his forehead reminded him just how much warmer than it usually was inside the vessel. ZNS Tigershark had been the first to enter the Lynxion War and barely avoided being sunk itself on a few times, many of these wrecks were his victims from the chaos he and his crew sowed. It was the result of the action he took that kept the enemy off-balanced and after-action analysis indicated he saved many rabbits from becoming prisoners.
Thus far they maneuvered around several vessels sunk during the war, the image of the recent one showed this was a transport from the Lynxion Empire, his ancestral homeland. He allowed a small smile at the corners of his muzzle; weeks ago this encounter would have resulted in his vessel running into the wreck resulting in damage or possible sinking of his vessel. Now the new computer was digitizing the shape and form of the wreck, including many of its internal structures. A crewmember let out a soft whistle, a small break in discipline in which he glared at the crewmember who nodded his apology. Still the new information displayed was worthy of a whistle, the approximate amount of fuel remaining in the un-ruptured tanks was enough to make recovery worthwhile.
The sleek vessel glided past the wreck and headed towards the canyon that the GSD said was most likely the location of underwater caves and somewhere in one or more of these was a possible entrance to the cavern hence a backdoor into that underground civilization. The captain grabbed his mic and pressed the button.
"This is the captain... we're heading to our primary search area. Results of searching the Lynxion War wrecks have provided acceptable navigation information. All paws to General Quarters and set Condition Z throughout the vessel. This is all for now."
After hanging up the mic he turned towards the pair of mammals who actually controlled his ship, a pair of Lynx. "Helm... easy goes it. Take us in."
"Aye captain, direction?"
"Let's follow the cliff face, give us maneuvering room... use your judgement. Technician, can that machine tell us the currents and which way they go?"
The GSD agent turned towards the Lynx. "Yes and I've tied general navigation of the immediate area to your navigator's screen. I'll monitor further out and give him heads-up on major changes. Fisher-mammals have told us what we can expect; mainly this area is susceptible to strong currents upwelling from this cliff area."
The captain nodded. "Helm, let's go a little distance out before heading down. We want some maneuvering room in case we get caught in one those currents."
The helm acknowledged the order and focused his attention on his small screen before him. Another recent addition to this vessel was cameras mounted on the external hull. These were mounted in pairs, one being infrared and the other digital. Another computer would amplify what either showed so they wouldn't have to get too close to the cliffs' side; currently the bridge crew stole glances at the large view screen at the front of the bridge, another recent addition meant to give the captain and his team a visual on their immediate surroundings. Onscreen the seafloor moved below the vessel as it drew closer to the edge. Someone took a sharp breath as the bottom of the screen turned dark, signaling they now sailed across the edge and deep water lay underneath them. The sub was buffeted as it moved through the upwelling current and in short duration returned to smooth sailing, then tilted slightly downward as the helm adjusted its travel and watched as they moved into deeper water. On a side screen the technician adjusted what the cameras showed them, the computer adjusting the view so the cliff face remained somewhat viewable as the natural light slowly faded.
Soon they leveled off a certain height above the floor of the canyon and now travelled forward starting their survey mission. A floodlight turned on which allowed the nearest camera to record the cliff as they passed by. Infrared cameras were busy recording their surroundings, one catching a sunken ship as they passed by obviously a wreck from the recent war. The seafloor down here was covered with more than seaweed and critters, the cameras catching many items that fell from many years of mammals sailing these waters over the centuries. Schools of fish passed by, giving the strange behemoth a wide birth. Crustaceans of all types scampered away trying to find a hiding place until the big metallic fish moved away.
As the afternoon went on one cave after another was found, documented, searched with a drone, and then moved on. These were shallow in length, certainly not leading anywhere close to the underground caverns. These were occupied by many types of sea life, but not the ones that would indicate access to source of breathable air. Patience was the key to discovering the cave described by the GSD.
John and Jackie were visiting the Hopps Farm mostly to keep up the bi-weekly trips their son and daughter-in-law did. Fresh country air was something the storekeeper enjoyed and his wife enjoyed having time for hen-talk with the older females. Of course what could one call several older males talking about things females didn't care about? Since Marilyn and Caroline were currently in the care of their other grandparents, the Dennison and Wintersprite, there was time to enjoy getting to know these elder rabbits. Word had gotten back that the young vixens strongly suspected their parents were abducted; thankfully they were content to be spending time with the other side of the family tree. It certainly made the elder Wildes and the elder Hopps relaxed at least as far as knowing the tasking was spread out among the whole family tree.
Now that there were predators living in the other burrow on the farm these didn't have to worry about ordering meals from Gideon Grey who nevertheless still brought over the stew they always enjoyed. It was not lost on the Wildes that Gideon now had a vixen working with him and after politely inquiring he introduced his newly-hired helper, Roslyn Prairie. It was obvious to older eyes that something more than baking muffins was going on in the kitchen but for sake of ears too young they waited for better time to hear the story how a former escort model decided to change occupation and get her paws messy with bread dough.
Later that afternoon Jackie followed Opal and Bonnie deep into the burrow and into a room full of females doing exercises. Roslyn was leading the class assisted by Evelin and another vixen. This was a yoga-palates class and Roslyn did these exercises to maintain her fit and trim body, mostly out of habit and to turn male's eyes but now that she had her eyes on the baker fox it had a different meaning, as did her gentle attempts to help him have a better diet something that would benefit her soon if her own mother was correct. These elder females did what they could and were thankful the young vixen adjusted the tempo of the exercises so old bones and tendons could follow along somewhat comfortably.
During the evening meal the topic eventually turned to the missing family members.
"Anyone remember that day when the taxidermist in Bunny Burrow sent that big box?" Stu asked.
"One with the two heads? I remember" John said.
"What are you getting at?" Gideon asked as a paw held his under the table.
"I wonder if Jude the Dune will acquire another head for her collection" replied Stu.
"I wonder if it will be her head displayed as such by those fanatical mammals" Roslyn said and then realized who she was among.
"Apologies... no disrespect intended..."
Jackie got up and after walking over gently hugged the younger vixen. "No offense was made. We already thought about that possibility considering Mr. Big gave us a report recently. The Servant of Truth is made up of mammals from almost every strata and agency in Zootopia. He is doing something over at the Regal Giraffe Theater but won't tell us."
Evelin had a twinkle in her eyes. "Whatever it is it surely must have a trap associated with it. Judy has been like a daughter to him and nobody messes with his family."
"You mean since she is godmother to his granddaughter he has been affected and I agree... he will be going after whoever kitnapped Judy" Opal said.
"But... how can you tell who belongs to them? I for one have a difficult time figuring who ate the last blueberry muffin" Jenny asked taking a quick photo of the baker couple.
"If you consider who is sitting among us at this table then it is only a matter of deduction. But my first suspect would be Nickolas." Opal had a twinkle in her eyes.
Giggles went around the table except for Roslyn who politely refrained from asking. Gideon explained that although Nick was useful in making chores enjoyable and an excellent entertainer in storytelling, he was known to snatch any blueberry that wasn't under lock and key.
"It is unfortunate that he is captured, I would very much like to hear how he would be defending himself" Roslyn said with a slight tone in her voice.
Opal reached over and gently patted her paw. "No need to sound so sad, my dear. We aren't ones prone to abuse Vulpes just because of something they say that may offend us. No, it is more offensive to butter your words than say what's on your mind. Heaven knows Nickolas does exactly that."
Another round of giggles went around the room.
Roslyn looked at Gideon noticing he was giggling as well. "So this is why you enjoy coming here."
Gideon smiled. "Yes, but they are also one of my suppliers. Having good relations is more than politely laughing, Just be cautious around Grandma Opal, she likes to make sure you're taking care of yourself."
The elder doe slapped his paw but did nothing more. What he said was true, she did have that reputation; it was a leftover habit from her days caring for G.I's in the USO before they went to the war front to battle the enemy. Years of raising litters of kits embedded this habit and after her last litter were grown up and off on their own she found comfort in her new responsibility as Elder of the Burrow. Being grandmother to numerous bunnies was a tonic to her soul, more so since the Great Resolution of Zootopia. This was when the regional government formally forbade predators from eating prey within the nation, and arranged for meat substitute to become widely available through a government subsidy that made raising specific non-sentient mammals profitable. Fish still remained a viable food source as all other aquatic species that didn't breathe air or were sentient. Still it was not unheard of for a predator to murder and eat a prey citizen, most claimed it was their birthright and the prey should have known better.
"So... any ideas what Mr. Big is gonna do?" Gideon asked.
"My bet is he's going to show videos of our Wilde-Hopps having *relations*" Ralph said and immediately getting his ears boxed by Opal.
"It's what I would do. THAT is what the mysterious mammal on Tv said they wanted to prevent" Patrick said as he dodged the paw from his grandmother.
"Actually it said unnatural relationships between species are what they wouldn't tolerate. This is more than sexual and I'd bet a simple dating relationship is what they would punish" Jill said as she adjusted her glasses and smoothed the wrinkles out of her lawyers jacket.
"Well... whatever he has going on over there let's do him a favor and keep our pondering to ourselves. Perhaps he'll let us know what is so secretive when he is finished. Besides, we are waiting on the materials he ordered" John said and Jackie nodded her head in agreement.
"Excellent suggestion and it is wise lawfully. Clara and I have an appointment with him soon and I'll see if he will give me the cliff notes version." Jill scribbled a note on her pad and put it back into her briefcase.
"Well, you aren't the only one with connections to Mr. Big. Since it is obvious everyone here is curious why a city vixen has set down roots in a small town, I might as well give you the cliff notes." Roslyn pulled her paw out from underneath the table and on top, still being held in Gideon's' paw.
"I am in the employ of Mr. Big and I work as an escort model in one of his many societal clubs. Most of my clients wanted more than my arms in their paw hence it became increasingly difficult to keep work professional. Wads of money in high denominations doesn't always get my tail to flag, it's a female's prerogative after all. Some of my clients had some... unsavory... opinions about mixed species dating. When I grumbled about these recently Mr. Big took me aside and asked detailed questions, afterwards he swore me to secrecy. Terms of my service to him have not yet been fulfilled but he has graciously given me leave of absence and sent me away from Zootopia. Whatever he has planned he will call for me when my part is required. In the meantime I'm allowed to enjoy the sun and fresh air of the Tri-Burrows and continue a personal quest to find the perfect todd for me. Long story short... it was Ziva Big that thought Gideon and I would make a good couple. She wasn't wrong."
"When can we expect invitations?" Patrick wasn't so lucky dodging the elder rabbits' paw this time as he was busy dodging Jill's. John gave a gentle cough meant to get everyone's attention, proceeding when eyes were on him.
"Everyone here needn't worry about that, I'm certain Roslyn will invite all here to the wedding, even if it's to work as ushers or similar. As you are aware by now Vulpes have difficulty taking a relationship from dating to marriage, it's the leftover from ancient times when our ancestors had to track the vixen to her makeshift burrow and determine if both were compatible. Any two foxes can copulate, not any two can raise the litter to weaning before stress causes either to cannibalize the litter."
"Then it's a good thing these lovebirds have access to experienced councilors, even those with long ears" a voice said from the doorway. Everyone turned and greeted Elizabeth and Floyd as the elder rabbits sat down at the nearest empty places at the table.
"Yes they have indeed been quite helpful, some things not suitable for young ears" Roslyn happened to be sitting next to Elizabeth and received a hug and something whispered into her ear. There was a pause as she looked quizzed at the elder doe.
"We'll tell you in private, dear. Such is not meant for these ears just yet."
"Ok with that said on to a different topic. Has anyone heard about..."
As Albert asked the question on a certain recent event Roslyn whispered something into Gideon's ear, a moment later they slipped out of the room waving paws towards those that noticed them heading towards the guest bedrooms. Whatever cryptic message Elizabeth told the younger vixen clearly answered something that was important to Roslyn, and judging by the way she was pulling the baker-fox tonight was going to answer many questions the young couple needed answered.
*Oh my gnome... please let this be just a bad dream*.
She had witnessed many of her siblings being killed before her eyes, worse yet some of these were pregnant but yet they still were brutally killed and their unborn kits stuffed back into their bodies along with herbs, vegetables, stuffing and the whole carcass put into an oven and baked. It was bad enough that her siblings were being killed, but some were her cousins. This reinforced the Servant of Truth's declaration: her family tree was being uprooted.
Damn them all.
It was difficult to tell how much time had gone by seeing she was somewhere no sunlight could be found and no clocks displayed. Depravation... this was one of the tools she recognized from the training she once received up in Camp Billie, the ZPD training camp where officers received advanced training in various tactics according to their seniority and time in the ZPD. Then there was the training she received to become a junior member in the Council of Elders, training that she now used to help her identify as many of the mammals that now were acting as judge, jury, and possibly executioner. She didn't need to know their names: just as much about them so when she got out of this mess she could help the ZPD identify who the insiders were and bring them to justice.
*Nick... where are you?*
She had a pretty good idea who some of these mammals were: Kimberly... her sister-in-law and auntie to her brother's first litter. Butcher Stehli... Nick's family butcher they went to for special cuts of meat. A shiver went down her back as the memory of one her siblings' body going through the meat grinder he had operated; was this the *special meat* that the Wilde Family loved so much? Commander Ruck surprised her... he was one of the high-ranking members that worked in One Police Plaza that she had highly respected. But Councilor Twitcher was no surprise... this elder doe had questioned her back during her trial and voted against her in the final verdict. Councilor Woods and Councilor Vale both were here and these also voted against her not only during the final judgement but also against allowing Nick and her to join the Council of Elders.
Now that her mind was under duress her memory was strangely focused. Each time a mammal entered the room her memory told her she had seen it somewhere but exactly where was fuzzy. Bunny Burrow, the ecosystems of Zootopia, perhaps during her duties with the Council of Elders. As a beat cop there simply were too many places she could have seen them and never realized it. Those two foxes over in the room corner were speaking Vulpin and she swore she had seen them in the Rorschach Family estate. Perhaps she was seeing boogiemen around every corner or perhaps she did see them, time would tell.
It was no surprise these foxes hit her as hard as their paw could, thankfully it was only once and they left the room.
*Must have some policy in place allowing everyone a once-a-day strike the prisoner* She thought to herself as she gently rubber the spot that over the hours had been hit repeatedly.
The burning sensation made it clear some kind of damage was occurring and her training back at Camp Billy told her this was another tactic being used to soften the prisoner. Prisoner... even prisoners of war was given better treatment than what she was being subjected to. Her grandfather once served in the Great War and told his grandkits stories he was told what certain of his fellow military friends once went through as prisoner of war. The Geneva Convention was done to draw up rules every nation must follow that guaranteed basic minimum humane treatment for prisoners. There was a medal created and given to these prisoners, and now that she was going through such inhumane treatment she now understood why those that wore such medals refused to speak about the circumstances.
Kimberly entered the room followed by a small group of mammals. Judy recognized these as Trackers but something was different about their uniforms. For some unknown reason each slowly turned around as if allowing the prisoner to see the whole uniform had some purpose.
"Like them? We were given promotions for delivering the abomination most responsible for disrupting mammalian society. Too bad the other abomination was given away; surely we would have received something more."
Judy's ears flew up and just as quickly she realized her mistake.
"Ah... jackpot. Just as the Grand Tracker thought... you were pinning your hopes on him rescuing you. How quaint."
One of the Trackers grabbed and firmly held the injured arm as another gave her a shot of something that immediately felt wonderful. Next another wrapped the area in a bandage and when finished both stepped away, leaving Judy grateful but confused.
"Think of it as something you now owe us which we'll return later to collect. Nothing is free especially down here in the caverns; you should know that by living with your brother's in-laws."
These left the room and once again Judy found herself alone, something she was beginning to prefer more often. Her mind replayed the news she was just given, did it really mean Nick was captured? Who could possibly want him alone? Her mind brought back certain stores she walked by in Happy Town, inside prominently placed was recruitment posters featuring Nick. She loved it that he had become a positive role model for the citizens but annoyed many of these had been covered with lipstick lip-prints. Now her mind ran through many scenarios trying to deduce just who wanted her todd for themselves... perhaps herself?
A shiver ran down her back... herself. The only female daring enough to kidnap Nick was dead, Josephine Wintersprite was killed escaping the violence that killed her litter and her only surviving cubs now were being raised by their grandparents. Well, the two young vixens were her adopted daughters and both adjusted well being raised by their father and his bunny wife. Abigail Canny? The nursemaid once kitnapped Marilyn and Caroline, rumors in the Outback Isles Mafia suggested she had plans for Nick; now her head rested on a shelf in her apartment's office. Catherin McKeen? The consort to the Godfather of the Outback Isles Mafia was killed in the raid meant to capture him.
A short list of females appeared in her mind and these she carefully checked off one by one. The young red fox vixen at the coffee shop that frequently blew kisses towards Nick; the young arctic vixen that worked at Mousy habitually touched Nick's paw as she showed him items she thought he'd like; the trio of college-age vixens that were cheerleaders for Zootopia University and frequently did a short skit anytime they saw him on patrol near the university. Judy admitted being a little jealous when young vixens waved their rumps and tails towards her husband, especially when she was with him and drove the cruiser.
Youth... such daring, spunk, and disregard towards a wedding band. Young vixens weren't her problem, they simply wanted to have fun and enjoy sowing wild oats until they met their future husbands. It was those females that had a few years under their belts and had the means to wrest a male from a committed relationship, these were the real marriage breakers and she was hard pressed to think of one capable that expressed a willingness to act.
Kimberly's nose... there was something different about her mannerism. *stop it, Judy. She's probably just excited at her reward*. Still, the twitching seemed odd. Everyone had quirks. Judy smiled; a memory of one Nick's quirks brought a small amount of comfort.
Finnick walked through the dark alleyway somewhere in the Nocturnal District moving towards a singular destination. Everyone knew Nick's saying... *I know everyone in Zootopia*. Well, someone had to teach the young upstart these things and in his younger years that saying was his own. With age comes wisdom and he learned to keep his trap shut and let others fire off their mouths, thankfully his protégé learned to limit his trap to those that had the need to know. Unfortunately a cute tail was known to loosen the young fox's mouth, like the cute bunny he married. Finnick shook the image of her hips out of his mind, Judy's enthusiasm had a way of endearing her to most everyone and this was the first step of finding eroticism in a female.
He smiled: a cute tail had captured him and soon he would do the one thing he swore never to find himself at... the altar. He comforted himself with the thought it took a high quality vixen to wrest him from being a committed bachelor. Valarie held a Master's degree in Finance and Accounting and like himself works for Mr. Big. She did more than managed his bookkeeping, she often was sent on tasks for the mafia boss. Although these were certainly not putting herself in harm's way he nevertheless was uneasy about her going into other crime lord's territory.
The little fox found the building and pounded on the door. Moments later a small slit opened and two eyes peered out and down towards him.
"You got a lot of nerve showing your muzzle around here, Finnick."
"Tell Squint-eye I'm here to talk."
"He ain't got nut'n to say to you, not after last time."
Finnick had anticipated this and pulled out his zphone, after flipping through a few photos onscreen showed it to the door. The guard looked at it for a moment and then grunted, another moment later metal latching was heard and the door squealed in protest as it opened just enough for the small fox to quickly scamper inside. Once inside and after the door protested as it was closed and latched the panther led the little fox down the narrow and long hallway until it opened into a low-ceiling room that was surprisingly spacious. The room was filled with numerous tables each occupied with mammals in various stages of drunkenness; many playing card games while others simply enjoying the company of several females. Finally they stopped at a corner booth on the far side of the room where an elder raccoon sat surrounded by other of his kind.
"Why did you bring you this filth here? Didn't I..."
Finnick quickly showed his zphone to the elder mammal, waiting for what was onscreen to register on his alcohol-soaked brain. He didn't have to wait very long.
"What sort of hustle are you up to now? This means nuth'n and you can't prove any of it."
"I don't have to prove a thing. You know very well where this was taken and to which boss these are being... acquired... from. These are your associates and I don't have to remind you what'll happen if said boss discovers this activity. I've held onto this for such a time as this, so consider yourself as getting off cheap considering what I'm gonna ask of you."
"Cost? You come into my joint as if you belong and give orders as if you are the boss. Why, I should have you skinned alive where you stand little pup."
The nearest raccoon suddenly stiffened, his mouth agape with a choking sound barely uttering from his throat. The one next to him had drawn his revolver and pointed it towards the little fox ready to pull the trigger. Another of his kind was staring at the handgun-welder its face ashen as it stared at the trio of red dots making a small circular pattern on the forehead. Finnick remained calm still holding the zphone towards the elder raccoon.
"I didn't come here to cause you trouble, Squint-eye. You have access to someplace I need and time is of the essence. I'm trading this for access and as you can see I came prepared. None of your underlings needs to get involved, just get me to where I want and leave me be. Oh, don't worry about my welfare... I'll take care of myself."
The elder raccoon made a subtle paw gesture and most of his underlings immediately obeyed, only the handgun-welder remained engaged. A gruff sound from the elder raccoon finally caused obedience albeit reluctantly. As the little fox made his way out the back passageway a flurry of chatter was heard back in the room. Finnick smiled; it was obvious the group had just informed the handgun-welder he had been targeted by no less than three weapons. Exactly what was being said he didn't care only that he was being led to where he needed to go. Next place he needed to get to was going to be much more difficult to get by, hence this bluff. Nearly thirty minutes later he arrived at the hole in the wall and before he leapt through he handed his zphone to his escort who before stepping aside double-checked to ensure the incriminating evidence was erased and the recording media was removed before handing it back to Finnick.
The ledge was very thin even for a small mammal like Finnick. One misstep would put him into the bubbling liquid that smelled foul, exactly what it was he didn't care only that he made it to the other side and preferably without any of the foul liquid on his clothing or fur. He crossed to the other tank via tightrope-walking across a narrow bar then repeating around this until crossing over to another tank. This went on for several more tanks each containing different chemicals, why these were not enclosed wasn't known and probably the operator never considered any mammal in its right mind would ever consider crossing them. Once on the side the little fox leaped towards the ledge, barely catching the edge thus avoiding a nasty fall where several unknown mammals lay waiting below. These were abominations and obviously a mad scientist's concoction, clearly non-sentient and very aggressive and certainly hungry. Finnick put a new recording media into his zphone and took several pics of the beasts before heading away.
Subtle sounds behind made it clear he was being followed. He hoped the stealthed GSD team wasn't following him hence the walking on top these tanks, but their wiliness to do what obviously shouldn't be done by larger mammals caused the little fox's opinion of the agency to jump up a few levels.
Several sounds near him made it clear the team arrived, appearing out of stealth shortly afterwards.
"I told you not to follow. I was heading to our agreed upon rendezvous, but since you're here let's go."
"Finnick... never tell a GSD team where to go or what they can't do. As you can see such team standard training gives them skillset above other agencies, equaled perhaps by the military. Can you give us a hint where we're going?"
"Best see it to understand. Keep quiet and follow me, we're almost there."
It was obvious they were heading deep underground by the clay walls turning into rock, the ceiling became uncomfortably low forcing everyone but the little fox to get down on all-fours and move like their ancestors did. As they walked the little fox talked in as soft voice as he could, explaining what he thought the purpose of the illegal storage facility was and how it was linked to what waited them below. The tunnel opened to another and several large pipes led from somewhere above to the same direction they were walking. The group now followed these until the pipes went over a ledge. They climbed down rungs set into the Cliffside obviously meant to serve as a means to get below, the pipes following nearby and disappeared into the chasm far below. It seemed like an eternity for them to reach the bottom, not surprising considering the distance they were travelling. Finally they reached the bottom and scurried to the nearest object that could conceal them.
Before them was something that could only be described as an industrial site. One of the GSD members took out a small electronic device and soon as he turned it on it emitted a rapid series of beeps, thankfully the volume was low enough it didn't alert the nearest workers. After adjusting the volume he looked at the small screen and then turned it off. His face showed concern but his voice was calm and professional.
"We probably just received our lifetime allowance of radiation climbing near those pipes."
Finnick looked at the technician incredulously; dosage for him was lower than taller mammals thus these words most likely meant something far more serious. The other member looked at the technician expecting an explanation. The technician looked back at them and started his explanation as he handed each a pill.
"These pipes are carrying radioactive water and as far as I can tell the source is probably where Mr. Finnick is taking us. Swallow these pills, they'll counter the radiation."
The small fox smiled. "Give him a cookie. It isn't what is producing this contamination that concerns me, it's the purpose of this facility that does."
The GSD members adjusted their devices and went into stealth, Finnick having to walk close to the largest mammal. Radiation normally prevented the unit from forming a stealth field but a recent discovery allowed these units to adjust to the environment and counter the radioactivity. They made their way along the outer wall avoiding the pipes they had been following. Soon they arrived at the building Finnick had been guiding them towards and once the little fox pulled a key from his pocket and opened the door. Once the team was inside and they searched the nearby rooms finding nobody inside they, turning off the stealth after the security system had been temporarily disabled. Finnick showed them what he wanted them to see then stepped back into a corner with a weapon drawn to provide security. The team split and each member took a console and began navigating what each purpose to do, surprisingly none utter a sound as they worked which suited the little fox just fine.
Soon they were done and returned the knobs and setting back to the original point and gathered near the little fox. As before they activated their stealth units and went out the door, following the path they took getting here. None turned off their stealth until everyone finished climbing up the Cliffside and was a good distance inside the small tunnel. They kept walking until they were back at the tanks containing the unknown chemicals only then did anyone make a sound. It was the team leader keying his radio to make a report.
"Team Echo to Base. Mission successful. I say again, location of cavern power plant confirmed. Will proceed to next assignment, follow up report to follow. Out."
The team leader looked towards Finnick. "Lead on to the next plant."
In a room far away Grand Tracker Magnus Strongpaw looked at a screen, studying the data that was sent to his personal screen. Auxiliary Power Plant #5 had a breech in security; at least this was what his gut feeling was telling him. It had been on automatic mode and the technicians allowed go on an extended break. Someone, several actually, turned the plants controls on *manual* mode and made discrete inquiries into the general condition how the plant was operating. These must have been experienced mammals because none of the changes triggered the alarms, and the plant returned to previous state before returning it on *Automatic* mode.
He smiled as he entered a few commands on the keyboard, waiting for the acknowledgement before standing up and heading out the door. The Chancellor of the Twelve, now known to be identical twins male lions, needed to be told. He admitted never knowing the brothers had shared the position and kept their deception going on for years, only recently had the deception become unraveled. Thankfully only he and the Dark Priesthood knew of the chancellor's true identity, both keeping the identities secret. His reward was granted access to operating the original chancellor's secret security system, and it was this that had notified him about the power plant breech.
William der Stout and Regis von Mane took the news surprisingly well, the dark priests showed no emotion. This emotionlessness startled him when he was first introduced to their order as a young cub, but now it was merely a curiosity. The chancellors agreed to his recommendations and the dark priests said they would capture the intruders themselves. Magnus couldn't put his finger on it but he suspected these undead had other plans for the GSD team. Rumors had spread of the priesthood inducting more priests, perhaps it was these jockeying for a promotion. Regardless of the why he would have his own minions out searching for the interlopers.
By now she had a rough guessimat of what time of day it was: the usual time when her captors arrived and strapped her onto the rack and took her to the auditorium where for another day she was forced to watch her family be killed in front of her.
Instead of being strapped onto the rack as before she was forcibly put into chains, pawcuffed and forced down the corridor. After several twists and turns she found herself in a room, one that looked remarkably like the Council Joint Courtroom, but this one was not in an amphitheater as the ceiling was same height as the corridor she walked through. The trio of mammals in black robes needed no introduction which saddened her, of all the mammals she respected a judge was the last she thought would be affected by the Servant's ideology. Judge Travis Marsh, a male groundhog serving in the First Circuit Court of Zootopia. Judge Gerald Felidae, a male African lion serving in the Second Circuit Court of Zootopia. Judge Mau Chu, a male panda serving in the Fourth Circuit Court of Zootopia.
Looking around she noticed mammals sitting in what obviously was the visitor gallery. Night Howlz, an entertainer and member of a music band by the same name that is popular with younger generation. Jennie, a socialite from an upper-class family gives advice from her ZooTube channel. Daizy Cahoon, a self-help guru with somewhat shady credentials. Juzy Childs, a popular cook on television with her own show and business. Rufus Wilds, wildlife advocate appearing on many television programs advocating for humane treatment of the many non-sentient species worldwide. Markus Flea, exercise and fitness advocate advocating for proper nutrition and weight management. Irwin Mewz, a popular television newscaster whose viewpoint could make or break a political candidate. Randy Chuckles, comedian popular with younger generations. The remainder was unrecognizable and she assumed these were average citizens that simply followed these.
Her heart felt heavy, now she knew the viewpoint of anti-mixed species dating truly spread beyond law enforcement and now was throughout Zootopian society.
The three judges looked down upon her as she was positioned below them, their faces barely showing emotion as each pair of eyes watched as her chain was locked to a post. A honey badger stepped forward and growled loudly, the unexpected noise brought quiet to the entire room. In the visitor gallery the mammals quickly became silent and their attention focused on the scene before them. The badger wore the uniform of a bailiff and after the courtroom was quiet he addressed the gathered masses.
"All rise." The badger waited for the mammals in the visitor gallery and when everyone was standing he turned towards the three judges.
"Your honors, the courtroom is prepared."
"Acknowledged. Seat our guests and go to your position" Judge Mau Chu said plain as he looked at nothing in particular.
"The gallery may be seated. All shall remain quiet while this court is in session" the badger waited until the gallery's' occupants were seated then walked to his proper position and stood as decorum demanded.
Judge Travis Marsh shifted in his seat and then looked around the room. "These proceedings are to determine the fate of the accused, a mammal formerly known as Officer Hopps, who also was formerly known as Councilor Hopps-Wilde and before these was once was known to Lapin-kind as Judith Lavern Hopps."
Judy stared at the three judges incredulously. How could those once sworn to uphold justice be so cavalier? Judges were renowned for being able to put aside personal opinions and use a rational mind to solve societal problems. She just couldn't wrap her mind around such brazen disregard for the trust society as well as the government placed in them.
"Your honors, I...".
A roar echoed through the room. "Silence! The abomination shall not speak until given permission."
Judy glared at the lion. She never met Judge Gerald Felidae since he was out of her jurisdiction, but his reputation didn't suggest he could harbor such anti-relationship views. She decided to remain silent as it was obvious these mammals were not about to give her a fair shake, if ever there were a kangaroo court this was it. Sadly it was being governed by actual judges. A male mink stood before the judges, his suit clearly indicated he was a lawyer giving a veneer of legitimacy to this proceeding. Judy was curious why he was here; was he representing everyone that supposedly was harmed by two mammals deciding to defy societal norms and form unnatural relationship? She shook her head, some of those she arrested back when she wore the Play Bunny outfit during the anti-prostitution operations... these wayward males could be said to engage in unnatural relations. In her opinion the Servants of Truth should be going against these mammals, didn't seeking sexual satisfaction meet the same criteria as when she was dating Nick?
Judge Mau Chu looked down at the mink. "Mr. Westleton... counselor... present your case."
The mink nodded and turned his head making it clear he was addressing all three equally. "Your honors, the citizenry has just cause against this Abomination as her actions has been unjust and she has used the authority given her by our government to silence and cut short many lives. I will endeavor to make presenting the evidence as short as possible. Perhaps the best known example is when she acted against a citizen of another nation, one known as Jacob Bufford Longears."
Judy's ears flew up. How could any mammal in its right mind ever conclude after everything was made known what that rabbit with an erectile dysfunction did to those many female rabbits... from nearly all social strata... how could one conclude such an abuser be presented as a victim? Unconsciously her paw gently rubbed her throat; she was awarded a medal for bravery for her actions to bring this rabbit to justice. In her opinion it was others that did the actual work, she merely used her skills to buy time until a rescue could be sent. Her family gnome must have acted on her behalf and guided her rescuers quickly to that secluded island. Dr. Otterton had verified she had been subdued by that insane rabbit and was moments away from becoming his latest consort to give him a litter of kits.
"Jacob Bufford Longears? Are you kidding? After..."
Mr. Westleton turned around and glared at the doe. "Your unlawful actions against him resulted in his life being unjustly taken away."
Judy right foot unconsciously started to thump, immediately making her aware she was still in chains thus restrained. A small voice in back her head reminded her to think first, reminding her of the training Camp Billie had instilled in her. She was in a disadvantageous situation: only luck and crafting a plan could work things to her favor.
"Counselor, it was not solely my testimony that sent Mr. Longears to death. Many testified to his actions: becoming abducted by him, finding themselves on that secluded island, becoming subjected to his experiments, and becoming impregnated by him on multiple occasions. One such abductee could not testify in court: she lost her life after her last litter died in her paws. She simply couldn't go on after trying so hard to mother each litter. Mr. Longears failed to find the cause of his family's infirmity, something that was the direct cause of all his litters' deaths."
The mink looked at her, his arms folded across his chest. "Convenient. But your destiny was to be with him, he did after all prove he could support you to a better lifestyle than what you could live on a lowly beat cops' salary. All those females were supported equally well, all received his affections and some resented having to share his wealth. Females... some simply can't accept letting another doe divert his eroticism."
Judy forced herself to pause. Was he a few carrots short of a bushel? Was he naïve of the facts of the case, or was he dismissive entirely of any facts that didn't support his viewpoint? Blowing a gasket would not be helpful, and she was becoming convinced this was a tactic meant solely to enrage her. Surely he didn't believe what he was saying; if he did it meant ancient prejudices still roamed freely throughout mammalkind.
The mink returned his gaze back to the trio of judges. "Your honors, This Abomination have deceived others."
Mr. Westleton removed a small attack of paperwork and handed these to the judges, each receiving equal amount. A Tv monitor was brought in and turned on, onscreen was obviously a website and a social one at that. Judy watched the screen and then rolled her eyes.
"What is before you is her profile on Zootopias' most popular dating website for Lapins. I point your attention to the box on the left-paw side; this data shows the number of views and the number of responses this profile has received. According to the webmaster this profile holds the record for both views and responses; it also holds the record for lowest number of replies given by the profile holder. As such it is clear what the intent of this profile is, namely to provoke bucks and dash their hopes."
Judy's eyes were narrow slits, looking directly at the mink. "Counselor, really? As you may be aware rabbit females reaching age of twenty five develop the urge to seek out a mate. Our biology forces us to desire to start a family and I am no different in this regard. My job doesn't make becoming a surrogate parent an option, as it is unknown what the after-effects of the first litter are. Strong matrimonial ties are the norm and natural, but not every doe can willingly let the true mother take the litter away. Thus doctors allow the birth-mother to nurse the litter until the first-milk stops, afterwards she has the option to breast-pump and sending this to supplement the litters' meals or allow the gradual reduction of milk production resulting from non-nursing. It takes many days for her mammary glands to cease producing."
Mr. Westleton grinned. "Thank you for the biology lesson, but it isn't the purpose you posted this profile."
Judy paused, thankful that she caught her actions before a bunny rage exploded in the room. He was good, possibly the intention why he was here.
"Counselor, unless you are a mind reader you can't possibly know my intention. I told you, I created it responding to biological factors. I genuinely wanted to find a buck on my own. Unfortunately none of these were willing to allow me to continue being a ZPD officer, clearly they sought a doe with a sharp mind and fit body to remain in their burrow bare-paw and pregnant. My mother loved this but I at this moment do not. Perhaps at some later date I'll desire to fill an apartment with my young, but never at the expense of remaining an officer in the ZPD."
"Abomination... your purpose creating this profile is crystal clear to those that know the mind game behind such behavior. Certain bunnies are promiscuous hence the stereotype of copulating like rabbits. Your admission just now fits this model: you don't want to settle-down but want to sow your wild oats everywhere. This is the reason you enjoy wearing the Playbunny outfit: being on the streets pretending to be a part of law enforcements' anti-prostitution is merely the smokescreen for letting your inhibitions to tease many different species."
Judy looked at him with a wolfish grin spread across her muzzle.
"Then explain why I settled with a con-fox? If I'm motivated, according to your words, to be promiscuous with many species then surely I wouldn't settle with one male. In fact according to you I would date some of those bucks just to bed them; enjoy them without the commitment."
Mr. Westleton grinned back at her in same manner.
"It's because you are doing both; being promiscuous with many species while on the anti-prostitution operation and being married on the side as a means to camouflage these activities. This was part of the testimony given at your trial with those elder rabbits."
Judy took a longer pause than previously. He was definitely getting under her fur. After all these years she still had nightmares about the trial she went through at the Council of Elders estate. During that time ZNN showed footage of males from many species making claims what she did during the ZPD's anti-prostitution operation. Dr. Bearinton assured her this was a common tactic criminals used, some in hopes she would drop her panty in exchange for him to retract his statement. This rarely worked as these types of males couldn't attract a female and this was seen as a golden opportunity to secure regular tail calls.
The mink returned his gaze back to the trio of judges. "Your honors, many youths' minds have been poisoned by this Abomination."
Judy struggled to remain composed. This was a kangaroo court after all and its sole purpose was to place their problems upon a convenient scapegoat: her. She forced her mind to evaluate the order in which each accusation was presented and smiled; it was classic bullet points used by those that thought they were being unjustly passed by in life. The youth were a convenient foil used to suggest how their ideas would improve everyone lot in life, albeit through restricting choices.
Mr. Westleton pressed a button on a remote and a white fabric dropped down along a wall, obviously meant to be used as a screen for a video projection. The rooms' lights dimmed and the projector turned on, with a circle showing a number countdown signaling this was indeed a video. The scene displayed was someplace that could be any farm in the Tri-Burrows and was confirmed by the young mammals gathered in the foreground. Judy recognized these as the neighbors, ones that became interested in dating a predator after she won her case at the Council of Elders. She had cautioned these about copying her but most went ahead, some discovering for themselves that there was a size difference and spent time in Plainsburrow Hospital.
"What is before you are but a few females that tried dating predators, obviously influenced by this abomination. Reports of many rabbits falling victim to predator attacks rose immediately following the ending of the trial this abomination went through at the paws of those elder rabbits. Failure by them to see through her deception is the direct cause of these deaths and legal action has been initiated accordingly."
"Councilor" Judy looked at the mink. "The council took immediate action when these reports first surfaced. Still, personal accountability factors in and such females are still held accountable for their actions, influenced or not. So is the predator as many of these were proven to have been guilty of swindling females of other species."
Mr. Westleton sneered towards her. "As an officer of the law you are held to a higher standard than the average citizen. As the first of your species you are placed above your peers in this regards, in fact you are reminded of this on a regular basis as indicated by the mandatory counseling session you undergo. Surely you must be aware your every action is scrutinized by society, you've become a roll model and as such must present the best example what a female should be... what an officer should be."
Judy's eyes narrowed again. "Councilor, I am fully aware of such. Which version of female are you focusing on?"
Mr. Westleton's eyes narrowed matching hers. "The female you are supposed to be. Police officer aside, there are more than enough suitable bucks that are willing to have your paw in matrimony. But you reject them all for the purpose of leading a double life."
"Double life? Are you deaf... or conveniently disregarding what I presented? I'm living the life I wanted: being an officer of the law and stopping crime. I'll spell it out for you, councilor. Each buck I met for a date I asked a simple question and to a buck they answered the same: no doe of theirs will be doing dangerous work outside the burrow. They refused to answer direct but silence said it all: they wanted me bare-paw and pregnant spending every day caring for kits. THAT is not for me. Not every day for years on end, perhaps until each litter is weaned, certainly not continually. I love my todd to pieces but he's not going to be the only one that gets to leave the home daily, not while I get to live my dream."
The mink said nothing for a few moments, standing in place immovable as if he were a statue. "Young does throughout Zootopia and the Tri-Burrows, perhaps the Outback Isles are following your example... and it's getting them killed or maimed. What an excellent example you have set."
Judy purposely waited before answering. "Councilor, soon as this became a known phenomenon the Council of Elders as well as Zootopia Health Commission had me make public announcements on the steps of city hall as well as many of the Tv and radio stations throughout our country. In these I urged all females to use common sense and proper male escort on the first date. I'll not squelch the flame of romance between any two mammals even if it is destined to fail."
Mr. Westleton turned back to the three judges. "Precisely why it shouldn't be encouraged in the first place. Mixed species simply cannot understand the intricacies of the other species' dating rituals. Prey simply cannot perform them either."
Judy suppressed a smile. She had been introduced to some of the vulpes' traditions and while she still didn't comprehend most she knew Nick's family appreciated her wiliness to try. Her howls at the full moon were more than satisfactory and she tolerated his gentle raking teeth as he pulled them along her ears. Ears were an erogenous zone for rabbits and his gentle raking just stirred this in an unexpected manner. Still the skin inside was thin and easily bruised hence why he learned to only do it once in a while. Judy shuddered; just the memory was enough to stir emotions, emotions that easily led to allowing her husband what he desired.
The mink had a wry smile on his muzzle, obviously he noticed what her body just did even though she didn't mean for her action to be observed by another. He enjoyed the bunny's subtle movement, obviously an erotic memory had risen and trying to burst out. A smile crossed his muzzle... Lapins were so easy to manipulate and she easier still. He turned his attention back to the three judges.
"Lastly we present the evidence that by itself just very well may prove her deception."
Judy's ears flew up, the memory was still trying to wrestle to the forefront but the door opening demanded her immediate attention. Thankfully her urges quelled almost immediately; potential danger had a way to push even the legendary lapin urges to the proverbial back burner. A nurse entered and at first Judy was pleased and thought the otter was a friendly face but once nearby her feelings were crushed. This was not Nurse Otterton but the other otter she often saw when at Zootopia General Hospital. Nurse Teresa Riverbay was competent but had a clear dislike towards the bunny officer. It was not uncommon for females to have an instant aversion towards another female, even of a different species and between these two it was so. Judy thought she had always presented a calm and accepting mannerism toward this otter and tried always to not take the non-reciprocal action as an insult. But now standing here in chains she swore she felt the other female having some satisfaction towards her circumstances.
"Your honors, I present this medical mammal who will give the particulars about the topic I just made, seeing as she is much more qualified than I am."
Judy forced her ears to remain upright, but the slight drooping was noticeable. Meanwhile the otter was being sworn in and a moment later stood before the judges.
"Nurse Riverbay, this court thanks you for taking the morning to present your knowledge; we apologize for interfering with your important duties" Judge Mau Chu said as he gestured towards the nurse with a paw.
"It is my honor to correct misinformation, my knowledge is yours."
Judy felt a chill go down her back, further emphasizing the dislike she had against this female. It would be quite the struggle to maintain her composure and she was certain the mink purposely waited to bring this witness until last. Whatever was to be presented Judy was certain the nurse would be more than helpful and do everything to help convict the bunny. Judy was certain even without this witness she would be declared guilty of all charges, possibly including the murder of her family she had witnessed not too long ago.
Mr. Westleton turned towards the otter. "Nurse... please tell the court how you know the abomination."
"I work in the gynecology department at Zootopia General Hospital. This patient, abomination as you call her, is one of several I have had under my care."
"Refrain from addressing it as sentient" Judge Travis Marsh growled.
The nurse looked him squarely in the eyes. "I'm a medical member and as such will address my patient in the proper terms. The laws of Zootopia grant me leeway or have this court removed these? If so please tell me now and I'll move myself to proper local."
"Please continue as you wish, Nurse Riverbay. This court recognizes your rights as such" Judge Gerald Felidae said in a soothing tone in his voice. By now Judy had mentally assessed these judges and this one appeared to be tasked with smoothing ruffled feathers. The ground hog seemed to be the most racist of the three but the panda was a close second. A small uptick appeared at corners of her mouth as she daydreamed when she would be watching these three walking to jail in orange jumpsuits and shackles.
"Thank you your honors. May I ask why my patient is shackled?"
"Pre-trial restraint is a common practice for mammals deemed a danger to the court. The bailiff has deemed this one as such" Judge Mau Chu said.
"One little bunny such a danger?" the nurse said with an eyebrow raised.
"She took down a rhino by herself as a recruit in the academy and done similar as a beat cop" Judge Travis Marsh his head turned towards the nurse.
The otter giggled for a moment and then stopped after making a great effort. "Pardon my incredulousness, your honors. I'll be careful around such a dangerous mammal."
It was obvious her indirect insult was noticed by the three judges as fur bristled momentarily before relaxing. The mink quickly cleared his throat as a pretext to get the questions started his line of questions.
"Nurse Riverbay, describe the patient's general condition, specifically her reproductive system."
The nurse raised her eyebrow again, this time towards the mink. "She is as any normal female bunny. No abnormalities or disease was noted in her last exam."
"Ahhh... but there was. Her vagina... normal for a bunny?"
"It is slightly larger than the norm, but not out of proportion considering the Thumper Family lineage."
The mink now raised his eye brow. "But this patient is not from that lineage, or have proof been discovered?"
The nurse closed her eyes to slits. "Counselor, be careful your choice of words. Zootopia General Hospital did a genetic study and concluded her vagina was nothing more than a mutation of a gene-set. Ongoing analysis will determine if this becomes cancerous or a new variant. Her mother once dated a Thumper buck and it is possible his genes somehow affected her mother. It is a known historical fact such males have an adverse effect upon females they mate with, specifically such females go into a coma after a couple litters. This remains a medical mystery."
The mink ran a paw along his neck. "Back to my point. Her vagina is different than normal, bigger. Yes?"
The nurse looked dispassionately at him. "Yes, her vagina is bigger as was noted during her Adult Initiation Class all lapins go through upon reaching adolescence. Her family has noted she rarely dated thus was not sexually active as females her age group normally are. Dr. Otterton and Dr. Bearinton's reports conclude she was socially marginalized but extremely focused on her life's goal of becoming a police officer."
The mink paused for a few moments. "So her family didn't notice her possible copulating with males of any size?"
"Counselor, they were quite specific. The Elders of the Burrow were asked point blank about any possible sexual rendezvous and they remain clueless if such occurred."
"But it is possible."
"Her only sign of penile penetration is of her fox lover and only his genetic traces could be found inside her vagina. I have no further evidence any previous male."
The mink smiled. "The hare of the Longears Family... he did."
The nurse cocked he head. "True. But any genetic material he placed inside her has by now been removed by nature. But traces remain from those that abducted her and brounht her here."
"But..."
"Counselor..." the nurse said with menacing tone in her voice. "I was granted video access to view my patient. I took the liberty to view archival footage. I submit my evidence to this court for disciplinary action, starting when she was captured to this morning. Your guards took advantage of an exhausted female to relieve their loins. Otherwise my sole concern remains with my patient."
"But..."
"Councilor, same could be said of you. I'll not speculate further as it proves nothing and this court asked only for my professional opinion. This patient has a larger than normal vagina and has engaged in sex with a larger male than normal, specifically her husband that is a fox. No lasting damage to her vagina is noted other than what's normal for sex and she seems content to enjoy such relations regularly. Some females would be envious to be in her position."
The spectators shuffled in their seats as it was obvious some seemed to unconsciously agree.
"Well... my point is made. Thank you Nurse Riverbay, I have no further questions for you."
The nurse remained vexed as her arms remained crossed. "I wish to let this court know of my disapproval to these proceeding. While cross species relationships have ebbed over history dictated by societal rules, we in the medical community see little value in rulemaking to prevent *unnatural* relationships. We see youth experimenting and know for many such sexual activities will burn itself out and they return to their species to raise the next generation. Some marry and produce young with mammals close to their genetic order, equines and canines being examples. I personally detest the proceedings of this court, but you appear determined to continue with this farce. Pity... but it's not my place to judge. Is there any further need of my knowledge?"
"The court thanks you, Nurse Riverbay. You may leave at your leisure" Judge Mau Chu said barely remaining his composure.
The otter made a point of extending her stay, namely taking time to give Judy a brief medical exam before leaving the room. It was obvious this annoyed the judges but they remained quiet until the nurse left the room. The mink turned and his next few words didn't register on Judy's conscious, she was reevaluating her opinion of the nurse. Here in her darkest hours it would have been easy for the otter to jump on the band wagon and pour onto the hatred these mammals heaped on her. But the female she had once thought distained her turned out to be concerned for her welfare, if only as a professional performing her duties. Judy vowed she would never treat the otter with barely concealed distain when she got out of this mess.
Bridget was busy consoling her daughter as her grandkits frolicked about. Ralph was outside tending to the nearest fields as was his daily tasking, several of his kits were with him asking questions and watching what their father was doing. Some huffed as they tried to jump to catch the branches he was inspecting on fruit trees, still they tried. Ralph cautioned them and picked each up one at a time so they could touch the branches and smell them, something young mammals were likely to do. As with all young mammals they became distracted by the cocoon made by certain insects as they hibernated for the winter. Several Trackers and Scavengers accompanied them, a farmer and his kits were no match for the bands of Trackers still loyal to the Dark Council that began recent weeks to roam above ground. Grand Tracker Marquis had theorized this was in response to the upcoming Topsider Campaign to invade the caverns. He said it was practical and he would be doing the same thing, it was wise tactically.
Mindy was worried about her sister, the Wilde-Hopps to a certain extent because they had endeared themselves to her and these were her husband's family. Having both missing at the same time and in the same operation was not a coincidence; it had the hallmarks of a trap and obviously became true. As she busied herself with keeping her kits groomed and teaching them how to do same for themselves her thoughts often returned to her sister. She knew the consequences of being declared a traitor and scenes of the young doe tied upon the rack as passerby threw whatever they wanted at the rabbit raced through her mind. Bruises and disease was the intended result as was the slow painful death resulting from this.
Opal, Elizabeth, and Bonnie made frequent trips to check-in on the Canter Family. Grandkits aside, they genuinely sought to comfort them as they dealt with their own worries about Judy. Both Karen and Judy were highly trained in survival thus the Hopps elders weren't worried about these returning home; it was whatever those in control of the Dark Underground would subject them to. They knew what Judy went through back on that isle with the rabbit that had an erectile dysfunction; the hard-headed doe still bore scars from that experience which she tries to hide from her family. This was not fooling her grandfather; as a veteran from the Great War he knew some of what she still suffered from, albeit his was different from hers but still there were enough similarities. Some wounds could never be seen with the naked eyes, only the eye of the mind saw them clearly.
He still bore such unseen wounds but thankfully the doe that worked as a volunteer in the USO lent an ear and her pretty face; both helped mend his wounded spirit and gave his heart something to look forward to every day. This doe accepted his paw in matrimony and every day since proved to be even wiser than the day before. Opal knew Judy was hurt inside and worked to get her granddaughter on a somewhat even keel. When the ZPD award ceremony occurred after she and Nick survived the elder rabbits' trial, the Hopps Family watched their sibling receive the highest award for bravery, Albert and Opal knew this opened the unseen wounds that Jacob Bufford Longears inflicted upon their granddaughter. The media frenzy didn't help matters as did the public general afterwards when Officer Hopps made daily patrols.
Albert talked with Floyd often these days, which brought wisdom from both bucks: his own from military service and raising kits on a farm, and Floyd's as a retired ZPD detective and years currently working in the Council of Elders. As patriarchs of the family they had their paws full, something that gave them pleasure as their grandkits grew to become good citizens. Ralph's marrying a foreigner needed their wisdom, the young doe and her mother needed guidance and friendship these elder bucks could give. It was obvious Bridget was lonely even with enjoying her grandkits and these elder bucks decided to look for a suitable buck she would accept. Floyd's connections via the Council and their wider connections through the members would shorten the time to find to find such a buck.
Dinnertime came and Ralph entered the burrow with his kits and the ever-protective Tracker-Scavenger team. The sound of a mammal protesting caught their ears and looking into the room where the commotion was coming out of solved the mystery. Arthur Molts Hopps aka Uncle Molts, one of Albert's brothers that owned a tailor shop in Hundunken in Deerbrook County, was sitting on a chair and Bridget was preventing him from getting up. The grooming he was receiving made it clear she was trying to calm him down; the syringe lying on the counter made it clear the bachelor buck received a vaccine he had up to now successfully avoided getting. Wither he voluntarily entered this room or had been tricked was up to debate, but the elder doe keeping him in the room made it crystal clear she found him acceptable.
Conversation around the dinner table told the story why Uncle Molts was on the farm. He was making his usual visit to see Albert and Opal when Bridget noticed a slight limp the bachelor made. Opal was first to notice his eyes making more glances towards the elder doe suggesting the nurse caught his fancy, so she urged him to let the nurse check his injury. One thing led to another and he found himself being walked towards the nurse's office with two elder does on his arms. As Opal made small talk Bridget consulted Dr. Greenwood in Plainsburrow Hospital via phone call that confirmed her suspicion and the doctor told her of the missing vaccine in his records. It was unconventional for a nurse to sit upon a patients' lap as she injected said vaccine into his rump, but what was done was done and he didn't make any serious attempt to resist other than complain. The tiny hole made by the needle through his trouser was his excuse but his paws kneading her hips suggested this was a ruse.
Judy awoke sometime in the middle of... well, her sleep period. A few... days... ago her body fell into a deep sleep and nothing could waken her. Thus did it appear someone ordered her to be allowed to sleep at normal intervals, but still no food or water was given her. By now she should have been lying on her deathbed, immobilized due to low body moisture. Some supernatural force must be empowering her; perhaps her family gnome was sneaking in and giving some of his life-force to her. Whatever the reason she was thankful to be alive, if nothing more than to escape and bring those she knew to justice. Then there was the matter of finding Nick and freeing her husband, whoever the female that has control of him would soon feel her wrath.
She noticed something strange not too far away; someone must have entered the room as she slept and the mysterious mammal left behind a large glass of water and a plate of fresh vegetables and fruits. A portable toilet without an enclosure also was left behind; a note stated this would be removed before the others returned. She didn't quibble and ate and drank before a guard entered the room, relying on it being non-poisonous. Whoever this mystery mammal was she prayed for his protection, hoping her family gnome was doing this on her behalf. She would have prayed for a knife or pistol, but figure that would be pushing her luck. Whatever was in the food or drink soon put her asleep, the last thought she had was to find and thank whoever put these for her to consume.
She awakened with the world throwing her around and pain gripping her midsection. It stopped as soon as it started and when she could move with minimal discomfort she noticed a panther holding a wolf by his neck up off the floor and against a wall. The panther whispered... growled... at the wolf, letting him know if he caught any unauthorized punishment to the prisoner said mammal would immediately be killed as per standing orders from the Council of Truth.
This was something new. Who were they and could they be reasoned with? Mentally she shook her head; doing so physically would have aggravated the discomfort in her midsection. A short while later a doctor and nurse entered and checked over her injury, then wrapped her midsection in tape. These were Sea Otters and she almost mistook them for Dr. Otterton and his wife. But these clearly had distain towards her and it was only because of the Hippocratic Oath that they performed their tasking. Nevertheless she thanked them for giving her proper medical treatment, but they didn't reciprocate the sentiments. Their words simply stated soon she would regret this treatment and beg for her suffering to be ended.
Bishop Charlotte Snowshoe watched this from a distance, her presence obviously known by everyone here except the prisoner. The panther was assigned as her bodyguard while she was here observing the trial representing the Dark Priesthood, and acted at her behest. When she entered the room and noticed the abuse she made her displeasure known, and summoned the medical otters. It was obvious the otters didn't want to do anything on behalf of the prisoner, but a dark priestess was nothing to trifle with.
If only they knew she couldn't weld the life-force draining ability. But the epaulets on her shoulders made it clear her rank thus her authority.
But she did have abilities she could weld; one was to psychically control a mammal's mind. She rarely used this as it was draining on her mind. This was an ability she didn't have before the attempts to transform her into a dark priestess, but each time she was subjected to the blast of neutronian radiation from the Altar of the Oracles this ability became easier and stronger. She was thankful she rarely had to use it but when she did it had to be used to kill the other mammal. Once she was forced to use it against a fully converted dark priest, the result proved she could immobilize them. Since that time none of her fellow dark priests dared push her.
When the bunny's injuries were sufficiently tended to and she resting as comfortable as her condition would allow, Charlotte left the room along with her escort. When she arrived at the access ladder which led down to the caverns below the panther bid her good bye, waiting until he was certain she made it safely down below and then turned around to go about his assigned duties. Charlotte meanwhile was heading to a secret place for a meeting with Bishop Gandoff and one other mammal, the nurse would be her tool to ensure the bunny was afforded basic sustenance all sentient mammals required. She was disgusted at the mistreatment the prisoner received for nothing more than loving the wrong mammal.
M.