Zootopia: Special Investigations Unit Chapter 1, a zootopia fanfic

WARNING: This story is rated M for Mature due to the following: graphic depictions of attacks (murder, rape, etc.), foul language, narcotics usage (Cocaine, Methamphetamines, Fentanyl, etc.), and other scenes not suited for those under the age of 18. Viewer/Reader discretion is HIGHLY advised. Should you be under the age of 18, and you continue to read this story, I cannot be held responsible. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!

Secondary Disclaimer: This story will contain elements of different Zootopia comics. All rights to said comics are reserved to their proper owners.

DEATH WARNING: This story will contain death and mentions of it. Names of victims are chosen at random. Should a name coincide with a case (active or otherwise), it is completely coincidental, and should not to be taken seriously.

It was late at night in Downtown Zootopia. All was quiet, almost alarmingly. Not a soul was out and about, save for one. A young wolf cub was crying while laying on a bench in a park. Two silhouettes approached him, one showing concern.

"Hey, kid! Is there a reason you're out this late?" One asked. The young wolf looked and saw two Police Officers, one a cheetah and one a lion.

"I…. I don't have a home. My family abandoned me!" The wolf cub said. The two Officers were shocked, the cheetah going to them and kneeling down.

"You don't have anything with you?" They asked.

"Nothing but the clothes on me." The young wolf said. The lion then got serious and looked at the cheetah.

"Let's get him to HQ. We can explain everything to Chief Bogo." They spoke. The cheetah nodded and picked the wolf cub up, cradling them. The wolf cub gently held the cheetah, sobbing.

"What's your name, kid?" The lion asked.

"R-Ron. M-My name is Ron Nolan." The wolf cub spoke. The lion and cheetah then nodded and started walking.

[At Zootopia Police Headquarters….]

Chief Bogo was stunned after seeing Ron.

"Did you arrest a child?!" He asked.

"No, Chief. We found him lying on a park bench." The lion said.

"Poor child was abandoned." The cheetah said.

"Abandoned?!" Chief Bogo asked.

"I say we give him a place for the night. Have CPS take him tomorrow morning." The lion said.

"Nonsense! I'll take him in, Chief." The cheetah said.

'Has she forgotten who she lives with?!' The lion thought.

"Correct me if I'm wrong," Chief Bogo spoke, "but don't you live with your partner?"

"Safe to say we're more than that now, Chief." The cheetah said.

"I see. Why take him in then?" Chief Bogo asked. That's when the cheetah blushed.

"Because it will give me a head start for a litter of my own." They said. The lion and Chief Bogo were stunned.

"Y-you're pregnant?" The lion asked.

"I just found out." The cheetah said.

"What about your career? You're a candidate for Lieutenant!" The lion said.

"I'm willing to take the risk!" The cheetah said. Chief Bogo was stunned, but understood where the cheetah was coming from.

"Alright. Given how his parents abandoned him," Chief Bogo said, "I WOULD suggest contacting CPS in the morning, but not to get him. Instead, I recommend asking them if you could ADOPT the young wolf, and explain the situation to them." The lion and cheetah were stunned, but soon smiled and gave a nod. The lion then looked at Ron with a smile.

"How old are you?" They asked.

"I'm five." Ron said.

"When do you start school?" Chief Bogo asked.

"I…. I was never enrolled." Ron said. The cheetah gave a smile.

"We'll change that." They said.

"What do you aspire to be when you get older?" The lion asked.

"I…. I w-want to be a police officer." Ron said. Chief Bogo gave a chuckle.

"You'll be learning from two of them." The cheetah said.

"I hope to see you on the force in 20 years, young wolf." Chief Bogo said.

"Will you live that long?" Ron asked.

"Don't underestimate me. I can live for a long while." Chief Bogo said.

[Twenty Years Later….]

A fully grown Ron Nolan stands in front of a mirror, fresh out of a shower. He sighs before drying off and putting on a ZPD uniform. He then grabs his hat before looking serious and walking out. That was when he saw the cheetah and lion that raised him, and both were smiling.

"We're proud of you, Ron." The lion said.

"Thanks,… dad." Ron said. The lion hugged Ron and the cheetah joined in.

"Make us even more proud." The cheetah said.

"I will, mom." Ron said. The three then walked forwards, entering an office. Sitting behind the desk was Chief Bogo. Ron got up to the desk and went to attention before saluting as Chief Bogo stood up.

'How professional.' Chief Bogo thought.

"Officer Ron Nolan, reporting as ordered, sir." Ron said. Chief Bogo saluted back and the two lowered their salutes.

"Have a seat." Chief Bogo said.

"Yes, sir!" Ron said, sitting down. Chief Bogo then sat down and looked serious.

"How are you holding up?" He asked.

"Fairly well, considering. Not many managed to overcome the effects of Night Howlers without medical treatment. I guess I'm one of the lucky ones." Ron said.

"Former Mayor Bellwether has a lot to answer for. I can assure you that we will do what we can to help you." Chief Bogo said.

"Thank you, sir." Ron said.

"Don't thank me. Thank Officer Hopps." Chief Bogo said.

"Wait," Ron said, "Judy Hopps? She's the one who stopped Bellwether?"

"Her and Nick Wilde, yes. It was an impressive display of acting." Chief Bogo said.

"I haven't seen her since the academy. She's come a long way." Ron said.

"Indeed. She's in consideration for a promotion to Sergeant. Wilde, too. They're quite the team. They've solved several different cases in the span of just 24 hours. Would you like to meet up with them? I can arrange that." Chief Bogo spoke.

"I'm sure I'll run into them." Ron said. Chief Bogo then smiled and gave a nod.

"Then allow me to formally congratulate you on your accomplishments." He spoke.

"Thank you, sir." Ron said. Chief Bogo then stood up and got serious.

"On your feet!" He ordered. Ron quickly stood up, going to attention.

"Awaiting orders, sir!" Ron said.

"Follow me." Chief Bogo said. He then walked out and Ron followed. The two then walked to a press room where reporters, fellow Officers, and civil leaders were in the audience. Members of the top brass, including the Chiefs of the other boroughs of Zootopia were sitting on the stage. Chief Bogo then took his seat as the Zootopia Police Commissioner, Dan Reagan, approached the podium.

"Today is a momentous occasion. For after months of recovery," Commissioner Reagan spoke, "ZPD welcomes back one of their own. He was a victim in the Night Howler case, but not many knew it. He fought the effects, without medical attention, and survived. He was looked over by medical professionals, and they determined that the effects of the Night Howlers had given him an immunity to it. Today, we welcome back Ron Nolan, but not as an Officer. For his meritorious service, and selfless actions, we welcome back Ron Nolan at his deserved rank of Sergeant." Commissioner Reagan looked and Ron and motioned him to come forwards. Ron walked onstage and approached the commissioner, his hat tucked under his arm. Ron stopped just before Commissioner Reagan and stood at attention. Commissioner Reagan then pinned a Sergeant's badge to Ron's uniform and handed him a second one for his wallet. A triple chevron was then added to one side of his uniform, causing his adoptive parents to smile offstage.

'He deserves this.' Chief Bogo thought.

"Congratulations, Sergeant." Commissioner Reagan spoke.

"Thank you, Commissioner." Ron said. The two saluted each other before shaking each other's paws. The audience applauded and reporters took photos of the exchange.

[Later….]

Ron walked into the bullpen of HQ and everyone applauded, Chief Bogo included.

"You deserve it, Nolan!" One said. Ron then sat at his seat and everyone got quiet.

"I know everyone is excited to celebrate Nolan's promotion to Sergeant," Chief Bogo said, "but it can wait until later. Right now, we have work to do. Organized Crime has issued a BOLO in connection with a RICO case being worked in Tundra Town. They've asked for SWAT to assist. Fangmeyer has the details. Special Victims is asking for assistance on a canvas in the Rainforest District. Two units maximum. First come, first served. Zootopia Federal Police have asked for our assistance in a protective custody convoy. Units will be assigned later. Lastly, Sergeant Nolan will be reading the final announcement before you all start." Ron then stood up and went to the podium. Chief Bogo stood back and Ron gave a sigh.

"Before I read the final announcement," he spoke, "I would like to say something. Even though I worked alongside you all in different instances, it doesn't change how I do my job. I'm a Sergeant now. That means I'm a Supervisor, a Watch Commander, a boss. What happens outside of work between us will NOT spill into what happens inside of work. If you mess up, I'll call you out on it. My ultimate goal is to keep the citizens of Zootopia safe, and free from harm. That includes my brothers and sisters in blue. A bit weird since my adoptive parents are out in the hall and listening, but nonetheless." Light chuckles were heard and Chief Bogo smiled.

"Well said, Sergeant. Please proceed." Bogo spoke. Ron cleared his throat and got serious.

"A funeral home in the Sahara District is asking for a two unit escort from the church, where the funeral will be taking place, to the gravesite. Per request of the family," Ron spoke, "members of the ZPD Honor Guard will be assigned for the escort, but they want additional units to block traffic." Groans of annoyance and complaint then sounded.

"Funeral detail? That's the most boring part of the job!" Someone said.

"I certainly hope that wasn't a TO complaining. Rookies and TOs will be getting their assigned locations after roll call." Ron said.

"What?!" A TO asked.

"Come on, Sarge!" Another said.

"Orders from the Commissioner," Ron said, "not me." Two more Officers walked in and Chief Bogo looked at them.

"Hopps, Wilde, you better have a good reason for being late." Bogo spoke.

"Four vehicle collision in front of City Hall. We saw the whole thing. Here's the report." One of them said, holding up a file. Chief Bogo took the file and looked it over before nodding.

"Very well. I'll forgive your tardiness… this time. Both of you hang back for a bit. The newest Sergeant wants a word." Bogo said. The two nodded and Ron looked from the corner of his eye, seeing a bunny and a fox.

"That's all. Get out there and keep the peace." Ron said. Everyone then left, save for Ron, Bogo, and the two Officers. Bogo then nodded.

"I'll be in my office." He said. He then went to his office and closed the door. Ron then looked at the two and the bunny gasped.

"Ron Nolan?!" They asked. Ron smiled and nodded.

"Been awhile, Hopps. Four years?" Ron asked.

"Too long! Get over here!" Judy said. Ron then knelt down and the two hugged.

"Mind introducing me, Carrots?" The fox asked. Judy then looked at Nick, smiling.

"Nick Wilde," she said, "meet Ron Nolan. He and I were in the academy together."

"Wait, wait, wait. The same Ron Nolan who refused medical attention after being affected by the Night Howlers?" Nick asked.

"Indeed. I can't thank you two enough for stopping Bellwether. Because I never got medical attention," Ron said, "I'm now immune to Night Howlers. My body adapted to them, and now I can return to full duty. Though, this time it's a bit different." Ron then showed the triple chevrons and Judy gasped.

"You got promoted?!" She asked.

"You're looking at the newest Sergeant." Ron said, smiling. Judy gave a light squeal.

"Congratulations, Nolan!" She said.

"Yeah," Nick said, "you deserve it!"

"Thanks. You two better head out on patrol. I get the feeling Clawhauser will be giving the details for a party later. Catch up on lunch?" Ron asked.

"You bet! Same place?" Judy asked.

"You know it." Ron said.

"Good meeting you, Sergeant." Nick said.

"You, too." Ron said. He stood up and held a paw out, Nick shook his paw before feeling a piece of paper in his own. He took the paper and looked, seeing a note. He opened it and saw the following: "I know you have a crush on Judy. It's obvious. Valentine's Day is around the corner, so make your plans now. Trust me, you won't regret it."

'How the?!' Nick thought. Ron gave a grin before Nick slipped the note in his pocket.

"Tell no one." Nick muttered.

"Safe with me." Ron returned. Judy and Nick then left and Ron smiled.

[Moments later….]

Nick and Judy were doing a speed trap, each taking turns looking at the radar.

'This is a bit too quiet.' Nick thought. He then picked up the radio mic.

"This is 7-Adam-01 to Central," Nick said, "doing a radio check."

"Copy, 7-Adam-01. Good on you." A dispatcher said.

"This is 4-Adam-22 to 7-Adam-01," someone said, "glad to know we weren't the only ones thinking the same thing. Almost thought the radio was off."

"Same here." Nick said.

"What's your 20?" The Officer asked.

"Speed trap location 4-Bravo." Nick said.

"We see you. Coming up on your right now. Central," the Officer said, "show us assisting 7-Adam-01 in the speed trap."

"Copy." The dispatcher said. Nick rolled the window down and saw another ZPD cruiser pull up. The window rolled down to reveal a panther and a lioness.

"Catch any yet?" The panther asked.

"Nope. Not even a nibble." Nick said.

"We normally catch a lot here." The lioness said.

"Just not today." All four spoke, simultaneously. This earned a chuckle from Judy. The lioness then grew a grin.

"Say, Hopps. You and Sgt. Nolan were at the academy together, right?" She asked.

"Yeah. We were. He was always at the top. Even broke all the records. Helped me get a head start on Crisis Negotiation, too." Judy said.

"Why you asking about him? Got a crush or something?" Nick asked. The lioness tensed up and the panther started laughing.

"Shut up!" The lioness said.

"Girl," the panther said, "almost EVERY female officer, save for his own mother, has tried to get in his pants. He turned them all down!"

"If I were to ask him," Judy said, "I'd bet he'd even turn ME down! He was the same way in the academy."

"No tips? Really?" The lioness asked.

"Here's one. Give up on Nolan before your heart gets broke." Nick said. The panther laughed again before all four of them heard tires screeching to a stop and loud crunching. They looked and saw two vehicles, watching as one flipped over the guard rail and land on its top. The vehicle exploded once it landed.

"Holy shit!" The lioness said.

"We'll take the top! You guys get the bottom!" Nick said.

"This is 4-Adam-22 to Central," the panther said, "requesting ZFD to our location for a two scene TC. One vehicle in flames, one totaled. Have Coroner on standby! Be advised, 7-Adam-01 will control the first scene. We'll handle the second."

"Copy, ZFD and backup units en route." A dispatcher said. The four then split up with Nick and Judy taking the first scene, and the panther and lioness taking the second. Each one turned the ELS of their vehicles on.

"Central, 7-Adam-01. Show us on scene." Nick said.

"Copy." The dispatcher said. Nick and Judy then got out and approached the scene.

"I'll get driver! Nick, passenger!" Judy said.

"Got it!" Nick said. The two split between the vehicle and looked inside.

"Zootopia Police! Is everyone okay?!" Judy asked. Nick saw the passenger and felt for a pulse. He didn't feel one. Judy felt for a pulse on the driver. She, too, didn't feel one. Nick looked at Judy, shaking his head. Judy shook hers in confirmation. Nick then pulled out his radio.

"Central, 7-Adam-01. Notify Coroner. Two DOA at this location." He spoke.

"Make that THREE DOA, Central. This is 4-Adam-22 confirming DOA of driver of the second vehicle involved. Requesting TCD to shut down the following highways pending investigation." One of the two said. Time then seemed to slow and the voices were distorted as Nick went back to the car and opened the back, pulling out his and Judy's reflective vests and the Traffic Collision Kit. He approached Judy and held out her vest, which she took and put on. Nick put his vest on and set out road flares. Soon enough, more units started showing up. Nick then went to Judy, who teared up and hugged him as time resumed.

'Poor thing.' He thought.

[Hours later….]

Nick and Judy were walking away from HQ when they saw the lioness and panther from earlier.

"Hey." The panther said.

"How you two holding up?" Nick asked.

"It's hard." The lioness said.

"They were just children." Judy said.

"Yeah," the panther said, "it's harder when children are involved. How old were they?"

"They were only 16." Judy said.

"What about yours?" Nick asked.

"A 32 year old." The lioness said.

"Drunk?" Nick asked.

"Had a BAC of .599 when his blood was tested," the panther said, "whatever was left anyways."

"Why the Hell was he driving?!" Judy asked.

"Easy, fluff. We might never know the reason." Nick said. Just then, the lioness knelt down and hugged Judy. Judy was shocked at first, but returned the embrace, her eyes clenching as they held back tears.

"Don't worry. It'll be okay." She said. Judy sniffled and Nick knelt down, putting a hand on her shoulder.

"Let's get you home, Carrots." Nick said. Judy nodded and broke the hug.

"My name's Kiara, by the way. This is my partner, Wanda." The lioness said.

"Last names?" Judy asked.

"Pride and Alvarez." Kiara spoke. Judy nodded and Nick stood up.

"Come on, Jude." He spoke, shocking her.

"Y-you've never called me that." She said.

"First time for everything." Nick said. Judy then got the message and nodded. She and Nick then left going to the train station. However, they were soon stopped by Wanda.

"We'll give you a lift. Least we could do." She said.

"Thanks." Judy said. The four then went to a ZPD cruiser, which confused Judy and Nick.

"I didn't think we could take the cruisers home." Nick spoke.

"You can if you have permission." Kiara said.

"This one doesn't have a prisoner cage," Wanda said, "so the safety locks aren't on. Hop in. Eh, no offence, Judy." Judy gave a slight chuckle before smiling.

"None taken." She said. They all got in and Wanda drove Judy and Nick to Judy's apartment. The whole drive over was filled with conversations of their academy experiences, and some teasing towards Kiara every time she brought up Ron. When they got to Judy's apartment, Judy and Nick got out.

"Want us to wait for you, Nick?" Wanda asked.

"Nah, you ladies go on ahead. I've kept your faces company with my handsome demeanor long enough." Nick said. Kiara giggled and Wanda smiled.

"Alright. See you around." Wanda spoke. She then drove off and Nick walked Judy to her apartment. She was silent the whole way, and Nick understood why. As they approached Judy's apartment, her neighbors looked at her solemnly.

"We saw the news. You holding up okay?" One asked.

"As well as I can." Judy said, unlocking her apartment.

"Well," the other neighbor said, "we're moving out. Last of our stuff just left. We just wanted to apologize for the hard time we gave you."

"It's okay. All is forgiven." Judy said. The two neighbors then left and Judy walked into the apartment.

"I guess I'll see you tomorrow. Sleep well, Carrots." Nick said. He then turned to leave, but Judy stopped him.

"C-could you… stay here tonight?" She asked. Nick looked at her, somewhat stunned.

"You've never asked me to stay the night." Nick said. Judy then looked into Nick's eyes, her expression solemn.

"First time for everything." She said. Nick then understood and nodded. Judy then led him inside and he closed and locked the door behind him. He turned on the lights and Judy hugged him tight. He soon felt a wetness on his shirt and heard Judy sob.

"It's okay," Nick said, holding her close, "let it out. I'm right here, and I'm not going anywhere."

"They were just kids." Judy spoke, her voice soft and breaking.

"There, there, fluff. There, there." Nick said. Judy sobbed more, until she couldn't hold it back any more and started crying. Nick simply held her close, showing her comfort.

'This must be getting to her bad.' Nick thought. He then closed his eyes and took a breath.

"Hello darkness, my old friend

I've come to talk with you again

Because a vision softly creeping

Left its seeds while I was sleeping

And the vision that was planted in my brain still remains

Within the sound… of silence." Nick sang. Judy was shocked, but knew what Nick was trying to do.

"In restless dreams I walked alone

Narrow streets if cobblestone

'Neath the halo of a street lamp

I turned my collar to the cold and damp

When my eyes were stabbed by the flash of a neon light

That split the night

And touched the sound… of silence." Judy sang. Nick then looked at Judy and saw that it was working.

"And in the naked light I saw

Ten thousand mammals, maybe more

Mammals talking without speaking

Mammals hearing without listening

Mammals writing songs that voices never share

And no one dare

Disturb the sound… of silence." Nick sang.

"Fools said I you do not know

Silence like a cancer grows

Hear my words that I might teach you

Take my arms that I might reach you

But my words, like silent raindrops, fell

And echoed in the wells... of silence." Judy sang.

"And the mammals bowed and prayed

To the neon God they made

And the sign flashed out its warning

In the words that it was forming

And the sign said

The words of the prophets are written on the subway walls

And tenement halls

And whispered in the sound... of silence." Nick and Judy sang. Nick then dried Judy's eyes and she sniffled, smiling soon after.

"Sorry about your shirt." She said.

"It's fine. It'll dry." Nick said. Judy then looked at the time and chuckled.

"It's getting late. We should sleep." She said.

"Got a couch or sleeping bag?" Nick asked. Judy looked at Nick before blushing and looking away slightly.

"W-what if I wanted to hold you as I slept?" She asked. Nick then caught on, giving a light blush of his own, granted it was hidden well by his fur.

"I… guess I wouldn't mind it." Nick spoke. Judy then gave a soft smile, but led Nick to her bed. The two got on and curled up under the comforter. Judy then yawned and held Nick close, nuzzling his chest.

"Goodnight, Nick." Judy said. Nick gave a smile.

"Goodnight, fluff." Nick said. Judy smiled before looking at Nick.

"You can call me Jude, too." She said. Nick gave a light chuckle before Judy laid her head back on his chest, closing her eyes and falling asleep. Nick gently pet her head before closing his own eyes.

"Goodnight, Jude." He whispered. He then fell asleep himself.

[Meanwhile….]

Ron sighed as he finished a report. Chief Bogo was shocked.

"You're still here?" He asked.

"Had to finish some paperwork before the night shift came in." Ron said.

"Smart man." Chief Bogo said.

"Didn't make Sergeant for my good looks." Ron said.

'Not like they would help.' Ron thought.

"Don't sell yourself short, Nolan. Quite a few ladies have their eyes on you. Perhaps they see something you don't." Bogo said.

"I know better than to date a coworker." Ron said.

"There's nothing wrong with it." Bogo said. Ron sighed and looked at Bogo.

"Is there a point to this, Chief?" He asked.

"I'm just saying you need to relax every once in awhile. Take a breather. Go on a vacation." Bogo said.

"I can't afford to take one." Ron said.

"Yes," Bogo said, "you can. We give paid vacations."

"Paid vacations are a pipe dream to me. I can never truly take one because my bills are so high." Ron said.

"How much do you pay in bills a month?" Bogo asked. Ron then held up the calculations and Bogo's eyes widened and his jaw dropped.

"Yeah." Ron said.

"I'll speak to City Hall about this." Bogo said.

"Do so in the morning." Ron said, knowing what time it is. Ron then got up and filed the reports before hearing soft sobs. He looked towards the source and saw the door to the women's locker room. He slowly approached the door, the sobs getting louder.

'I wonder if everything is okay.' Ron thought. He then knocked on the door gently.

"Is someone in there?" Ron asked. All he heard were sobs, which concerned him.

'This might not be good.' He thought.

"Male entering the room!" Ron said. He then opened the door and looked around. He followed the cries to a shower stall and looked inside it, seeing a vixen curled up in a ball in the corner. The vixen then looked at him, shocked.

"Sergeant Nolan!" She said.

"Is everything okay? I announced that I was entering before I walked in." Ron said. The vixen then stood up, Ron not looking at anything other than her face.

"I caught my boyfriend cheating on me with another girl." She spoke.

"He's a damn fool then. You can do better. What's your name?" Ron asked.

"Nikki Forrester. I'm on the night shift," the vixen spoke, "but I hear there might be a day opening."

"Alright. See if you can put in a transfer for the day shift." Ron said. Nikki nodded before going to her locker and getting her uniform on. She then looked at Ron before gently hugging him. He returned the embrace before drying Nikki's tears.

"I can call you if I need someone to talk to, right?" She asked.

"Yeah. You have my number." Ron said. Nikki nodded, giving a quick peck to Ron's cheek.

"Thanks for listening to me." She said. She then walked out and Ron was shocked.

'I think my rizz is showing.' Ron thought. He then walked out and sighed, headed to the front of HQ to leave for home.

[At Judy's apartment, the next day….]

Judy woke up to the smell of food being cooked. She stretched before realizing that Nick wasn't in bed with her anymore. She got up and looked, seeing Nick at the stove of the apartment. He was making pancakes. Regular ones for him, and carrot ones for her. Nick then smiled as he put the final touches, looking at her.

"Good morning, fluff. I made breakfast." He said.

"You didn't have to, Nick." Judy said.

"I wanted to." Nick returned. Judy smiled and got up.

"Got any coffee with these?" She asked.

"Just finished brewing." Nick said. Judy smiled and sat at the table, looking at the time.

"I should probably call my family. They're probably worried." She spoke.

"Go ahead, Carrots. Your food will still be hot." Nick said. Judy then called her parents, who answered almost immediately.

"Sweetie! We heard on the news! Are you okay?! Are you hurt?!" Her mother, Bonnie, asked.

"I'm fine, mom. My coworkers helped me through it." Judy said.

"That's great, honey. Say, could you come by for a visit in about two weeks? Your cousin, Benito, is visiting from his tour." Bonnie said.

"Sure, mom. Mind if I bring my partner? It'll get him out of the city for a bit." Judy spoke.

"That's fine. We can't wait to meet him." Bonnie said.

"Anyways," Judy said, "I was just calling to check up. I'm about to eat breakfast now. I'll call again soon."

"Alright, sweetie. We all love you!" Bonnie said.

"Love you all, too, mom." Judy said. She then hung up and Nick grinned.

"Worrywart parents?" He asked.

"More like overprotective family." Judy said. Nick chuckled a bit, putting a smile on Judy's face.

"What was that talk about getting me out of the city for a bit?" Nick asked.

"My cousin, Benito, is visiting home in about two weeks." Judy said. That name caught Nick's attention.

"Wait," he said, "Bad Bunny's your cousin?!" Judy giggled.

"Yup! He's been on a worldwide tour promoting his new album." She said.

"I can't wait to meet him then, fluff." Nick said. Judy giggled more.

"I told you last night," she said, "you can call me Jude, too."

"I'll save that for AFTER we're done with our shift." Nick said.

"If you say so, Nick." Judy said. The two then proceeded to eat breakfast before hearing a knock at the door. Judy got up and answered the door, seeing Ron with Kiara and Wanda.

"Got room for three more guests?" Ron asked. Judy smiled and let them in. They walked in and Nick tensed up.

"Sergeant!" He said.

"Does it look like I'm in uniform right now?" Ron asked. Nick went to speak, but soon saw that Ron was wearing athletic clothes.

"It looks like you just got done working out." Nick said. Judy then closed the door and locked it quickly.

"Clawhauser just showed up!" She said.

"What?!" Wanda asked. Clawhauser then knocked on the door before trying to turn the knob.

"Let me in! LET ME IN!!!!" Clawhauser said.

"You just ate, Clawhauser! We haven't!" Wanda said.

"You know I have to eat something!" Clawhauser said.

"It's like he has a tapeworm!" Nick whispered.

"Did you get checked out by the doc?" Ron asked.

"Of course I did! They said I needed to be cut open for something!" Clawhauser said.

"Probably because you might have a damn TAPEWORM IN YOUR STOMACH!!!!" Kiara spoke. Clawhauser then gasped and ran off, headed towards the hospital. Everyone sighed and Judy practically collapsed.

"Guess we don't have to go in today." Judy spoke.

"Weekend crew took control last night." Ron said.

"That's good. We needed a break." Wanda said.

"Yeah." Nick said.

"Why are you here anyways, Wilde? Didn't you go home last night?" Ron asked.

"I was," Nick said, "but… Judy needed some company. I was the only one she thought of."

"I see." Ron said.

"Nothing happened between us. I swear!" Judy said.

"Relax. I don't smell anything close to that." Ron said.

"Oh, thank goodness." Judy said, slightly relieved.

"Anyways," Wanda said, "got anymore pancakes for us? We weren't joking when we said we hadn't ate."

"I only did enough for me and fluff. Sorry." Nick said.

"Not to worry. I can make more." Ron said. Before Judy could speak, Ron got started and all four watched him work with precision.

'I never expected to watch a shokugeki this morning!' Judy thought. Ron then made some sides and did some fancy tricks while cooking. He then plated everything and presented it to everyone.

"Breakfast is served." He said. Kiara, Wanda, Nick, and Judy looked at the food in shock.

"Pancakes," Nick said, "hash browns, caramelized fruit? Who taught you how to cook?!"

"I was a cook in a diner before joining ZPD. Dig in. I'll do the dishes." Ron said.

"Wait," Kiara said, "how does Judy have a kitchen? This is a small apartment!"

"The room next door was vacant for so long that they expanded my apartment to it. Turned the extra space into a dining room, kitchen, and office." Judy said.

"Seems legit." Kiara said.

"What about the other one that got vacated yesterday?" Nick asked.

"I don't know if they plan on adding my apartment to it or not." Judy said.

"I can talk to your landlord about it." Ron said. Judy was shocked, but gave a grateful smile.

"Your rizz is showing, Ron." Judy said.

"Hard to turn it off. It's all natural." Ron said.

"All natural, huh? I should ask for pointers." Nick said, grinning.

"Looking to make Judy jealous, Nick?" Ron asked.

"What for? Why would he be trying to make me jealous?" Judy asked.

"Because it's obvious you have crushes on each other," Ron said, "but you're too scared to admit it." Nick and Judy both tensed up, before blushing intensely. Wanda and Kiara giggled.

"Looks like he's onto something! They're both blushing like crazy!" Kiara said.

"I'll say! They're almost as red as a paw-psicle!" Wanda said.

"There's no policy against two Officers dating. There's not even a policy against two partners dating. Why not give it a shot?" Ron asked.

"Can we NOT talk about this?" Nick asked.

"We haven't had our coffee yet." Judy said.

"Good thing I started a fresh pot that just finished brewing. The GOOD kind. Not that swill from HQ." Ron said. Judy and the others took a sniff of the air and perked up.

'That doesn't even SMELL like coffee!' They thought.

"Wait," Nick said, "what happened to the coffee I had brewed?" Ron looked at Nick with a serious expression.

"The bag busted and grounds got in." He said. Nick then became downtrodden.

"We almost drank the swill from work?" Judy asked.

"Sorry, fluff." Nick said.

"Oh, for Christ's sake, just call her 'Jude!' None of us are at work." Ron said. This shocked both Nick AND Judy, causing them to look concerned.

"Is everything okay?" Judy asked. Ron sighed, looking solemn.

"I went home last night to find my home as a burnt down pile of ash. All my stuff was destroyed, too." Ron said.

"What?!" Nick asked.

"Is the Arson Unit investigating?!" Kiara asked.

"What's there to investigate? Everything was burned away." Ron said, pouring himself some coffee. He added sugar and creamer before taking a sip and sighing.

"Guess you'll be needing a place to stay. Lucky for you," Nick said, "the apartment next door is available for rent."

"I'm not living in the same building as your partner. Nothing against her. It's the optics." Ron said.

"I have a spare room at my place. I can talk to my husband about it. I'm sure he won't mind." Wanda said.

"Isn't your husband that ZWL wrestler 'Black Panther,' Wanda?" Kiara asked.

"Would that matter? He needs a place to stay." Wanda said.

"Don't they film you two for a reality show from time to time?" Judy asked, remembering a department memo.

"Sometimes," Wanda said, "but only when I'm not working."

"Then why aren't they here?" Ron asked.

"Because they're filming my husband while he's training." Wanda said. Just then, her phone started ringing and everyone looked at her.

"That might be him." Nick said.

"We'll stay quiet." Judy said. Wanda pulled out her phone, smiling as she saw who it was, and answered with the call on speaker.

"Hey, sweetie!" Wanda said.

"I hear you have the weekend off." Someone said.

"Yeah," Wanda said, "I do. I'm just over at a coworker's place right now. You remember Judy?"

"The first bunny to join ZPD? You're at her place?" The voice asked.

"Yeah. I'm here with Kiara, too. Judy's partner, Nick, and our Sergeant, Ron, are here, too." Wanda said.

"Wow. Pretty tight space, huh?" The voice asked.

"It was until her landlord expanded her apartment. Speaking of," Wanda said, "I have a question to ask you. I wouldn't ask if it wasn't important."

"What is it?" The voice asked.

"Would it be okay if Ron stayed in the spare room for a bit? His home was burned to ash last night." Wanda asked.

"His home was WHAT?!" The voice asked.

"Yeah. Arson Unit can't even investigate since everything was burned away, evidence included." Wanda said.

"That's horrible! I'll have to talk to the producers about it." The voice said.

'In other words,' Ron thought, 'I have to spend money on a hotel.' Wanda seemed to know what he was thinking and gave a stern look.

"It's either he stays in the spare room until he can find a place," Wanda said, "or you sleep on the couch for three months." This stunned Ron.

"What?" The voice asked.

"You heard me. Ron doesn't have the money for an extended hotel stay. Reality show or not, my coworker needs somewhere to sleep so he doesn't have to keep going to the nap room at HQ. He knows all the reality show jargon." Wanda said.

"How do you know he does?" The voice asked.

"Because he just gave a look that told me he was thinking he had to spend money on a hotel after you said you'd talk to the producers about him staying in the spare room." Wanda said.

"Can we just talk about this for a second?!" The voice asked.

'Meaning the producers are wanting him to avoid any conflicts.' Ron thought.

"Too bad," Wanda said, "we have a MAJOR conflict right now. All that matters to you right now, until you're healed from your injury, is the reality show. If that matters more to you than helping one of my coworkers, we have a problem. Not like you ever really cared about me anyways."

"What's that supposed to mean?" The voice asked.

"You forgot what today makes! Here I am," Wanda said, "thinking we could have some time alone, but you had to go and start training!"

"What's so wrong about that?!" The voice asked.

"IT'S OUR WEDDING ANNIVERSARY, YOU JACKASS!!!!" Wanda yelled. The room soon filled with a hostile aura.

"Honey, I-." The voice spoke.

"No! I had a whole day planned for us today," Wanda said, "but the producers didn't want you to celebrate our anniversary until three days from today! So guess what, Black Panther, we won't celebrate at all! You just threw seven years of marriage down the drain! I'M FILING FOR DIVORCE!!!!"

"Wanda!" The voice said.

"No! I'm tired of you putting your career over me! We're done, Johnny! Have fun celebrating your next win without anyone supporting you!" Wanda said. She then hung up, blocked the number, and deleted it from her contacts. Afterwards, she sniffled before tearing up. Kiara put a hand on her shoulder.

"Are you okay?" She asked. Wanda then shook her head and sobbed. She then dropped to her knees and Judy ran to her, hugging her as she started crying. Kiara hugged her from behind. Ron then got serious, pulling out his phone and dialing a number.

"Hello?" A voice asked.

"It's me. I need an expedited divorce filed for someone on the force." Ron said.

"Who is it? Fanghanel?" The voice asked.

"Alvarez." Ron said.

"Enough said. Bring her by. I'll get the process started." The voice said. Ron then hung up and Wanda looked at him.

"You didn't have to do that." She said, sniffling soon after.

"Officer needed assistance." Ron said. He then approached her and held a paw out. Wanda took it and Ron helped her stand.

"Let's get going. We can stop for coffee on the way." Nick said. Wanda soon got resolve, and nodded.

[Hours later….]

Ron was at an arena, dressed in his ZPD uniform, with an envelope in his paws. Nick and Judy decided to join him, both dressed in uniform, to make sure nothing went wrong. They made it to the backstage entrance and saw two mammals, a black panther and an ocelot, talking in front of a camera. Ron got serious and approached.

"Johnny Alvarez?" He asked. The two mammals looked at him, a camera panning to him, and looked confused.

"That's me. Can I help you?" The black panther asked. Ron then got right to him and held out the envelope. Johnny took it and Ron got even more serious.

"You've been served." He said. Ron then turned away as the ocelot grew angered.

"Hey! You need to introduce yourself first!" They spoke, going to him. Nick and Judy then got in front, both serious.

"I suggest you back off." Nick said.

"Out of my way!" The ocelot said, shoving Nick. However, Nick and Judy took the ocelot to the ground, causing the ocelot to look shocked.

"You're under arrest for assault on a police officer." Judy said.

"Assault?!" The ocelot asked. Nick then cuffed the ocelot and Judy pulled out a card.

"You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used as evidence against you in a court of law. You have the right to legal counsel," Judy read, "and the right to have said counsel with you during questioning. If you are unable to afford counsel, a public defender will be assigned by the courts at no cost to you. At any point you wish, you have the right to terminate questioning and speak with legal counsel. Do you understand these rights that have been read to you?"

"You've got to be kidding! Is this a joke?!" The ocelot asked.

"Nope," Nick said, lifting the ocelot up, "no joke. It was all caught on camera, too."

"All I did was lightly shove him!" The ocelot said.

"Hear that, Carrots? He just confessed!" Nick said.

"That was on camera, too." Judy said. Nick then looked at the ones working the cameras and got even more serious.

"We're gonna need the footage as evidence. Stop filming. Now." Nick spoke. The cameras shut off and a leopard approached.

"What is going on here?" They asked.

"ZPD. The past hour of footage is now evidence in a criminal case. We won't hesitate to get a warrant for it." Nick said. The leopard seemed to have paled and gave a nod.

"I'll… get you the footage, Officer." They said. Johnny was shocked, but soon realized what was happening.

"S-she actually filed?" He asked. Judy looked at him, full seriousness of her face.

"Perhaps next time you should be more considerate of a woman's feelings. Especially when said woman is in the ZPD." She said.

"No! This can't be happening!" Johnny said.

"Too bad. It is." Nick said. The leopard then returned with the footage on a disc that was in a case and Judy pulled out an evidence bag. The leopard put the case inside and Judy sealed the bag, ensuring proper chain of custody.

"W-what's going to happen to him?" The leopard asked.

"All we can say is we're taking him to ZPD Headquarters. If there's an issue," Judy said, "have an attorney speak to the District Prosecutor's Office. They'll explain the rest of the proceedings."

"Let's go." Nick said, making the ocelot walk. Judy followed behind and pulled out her radio.

"This is 7-Adam-01 to Central," she said, "we're RTB. Be advised, we have one in custody. We'll transport."

"Copy, 7-Adam-01. Intake will be notified." A voice said.

"Copy." Judy said.

[At ZPD Headquarters….]

Nick, Judy, and Ron watched as the ocelot was taken to the holding cells. Bogo then approached with a jaguar.

"Well done, you three. I understand the reason why you volunteered," Bogo said, "and it worked out because process servers don't work weekends. However, I never expected for Nick to be shoved in the process. This is Miles Clawsworth, the Prosecutor assigned to the case."

"I looked over everything. We have a solid case against your suspect. The confession helps, too." Miles said.

"He thought he could just skate the charges, didn't he?" Nick asked, a slight grin on his face.

"That he did. He has another thing coming." Miles said.

"Get out of here. Enjoy the rest of your weekend. You've earned it." Bogo said.

"Come on. I hear someone needs help moving to a new place." Nick said. Judy and Ron both nodded. The three then walked out, only to be met with a wall of mammals in suits. One of them approached.

"We're here for the ocelot you have in custody." They said. Ron got serious, stepping forward.

"Take it up with the District Prosecutor's Office." He said.

"It wasn't a request." The mammal said.

"Neither was mine." Ron said, his tone forceful. The mammal jerked back a bit.

"You don't grasp the current situation here." They spoke.

"I believe that would be you. Either vacate the premises," Ron said, "or you'll be charged with trespassing. You think I'm scared of a ZWL company attorney? Think again. I've seen things that would make you shit yourself in your sleep from nightmares. Do everyone a favor, and let the justice system handle it. It's bad enough you lost a married couple because of the reality show you've done, and the ocelot SHOVED one of my coworkers trying to get to me after I served Black Panther with divorce papers. I don't know what the hell you guys are telling everyone employed under you, but it should be pretty obvious that you shouldn't attack a cop trying to do its job! Now, I won't tell you again. Leave these premises, or you'll be charged with trespassing!" The mammal then bowed up, but their eyes widened when they saw a MULTITUDE of cops behind Ron. Among them was Chief Bogo, who was feeling a sense of pride in Ron while his face was stoic. Miles then went to the front, and approached the mammal.

"I suggest you listen to him. They have legal grounds to hold him. His arraignment has been set for Monday," he spoke, "and he shall be in our custody until then. Is that understood?" The mammal slowly backed away, now shaking in fear. The others in suits couldn't believe it. They all got the message loud and clear: Never try and attack the ZPD.

"When did you get so cool, Nolan?" Nick muttered.

"I've always been cool. I just keep that side hidden for situations like this." Ron returned.

"Glad we're on your side. I'd hate to oppose you." Nick muttered.

[Later that night….]

Nick and Judy sighed as they finished unpacking boxes.

"That's the last of them, Wanda. I have to say," Nick said, "these are some nice digs! Shame I'll never afford to live here." Wanda then walked in and giggled.

"You'd be surprised, Nick." She said. Judy then looked outside, seeing Ron looking out towards the bustling Zootopia traffic.

"If only Ron could afford a place like this, too." Judy said. Kiara then came in with a smile on her face.

"I have good news, Judy! Seems like Bogo talked with City Hall about the living situations of a good majority of ZPD. You and Ron should be getting a pay increase to cover rent and other expenses. Bogo's also pretty pissed that the Arson Unit refuses to investigate what happened to Ron's home. He ripped them a new one!" She said.

"That's great," Judy said, "but it still doesn't change the fact that Ron has no place to live."

"Yeah," Nick said, "about that. I actually spoke with your landlord. They tried to have YOU kicked out, but I set them straight. I even had them give a list of properties they had, and told them they needed to make them more affordable before they get sued. Turns out, they planned on remodeling some of them to be duplex apartments. I told them about Ron's situation, and they've agreed that the ZPD deserves better. There's a complex they own in Downtown, four blocks from yours, that they just finished remodeling to get it up to code. They've agreed to allow him to live there rent-free until he can furnish the place. That way, all he has to do is pay for the utilities." Judy was shocked, looking at Nick.

"How'd you manage that?!" Judy asked.

"I won't lie," Nick said, "I had to hustle them a bit. They admitted to over 100 counts of felony tax evasion on a city-recorded line." Judy was shocked, but soon grinned.

"You sly fox." She said.

"I believe you pulled the same trick on me, Carrots. Whose the sly one here?" Nick asked, giving a playful shove. Judy giggled as Ron walked in.

"Why the cheerful atmosphere?" Ron asked.

"I managed to find you a place." Nick said.

"Where?" Ron asked.

"Four blocks from mine!" Judy said.

[Moments later….]

Nick, Judy, Kiara, and Wanda stood in front of a burnt down apartment complex, Ron having a stoic look.

"Saw this coming." Ron said.

"You hadn't moved in yet." Nick said. Four blocks away, flames shot up. Judy looked and gasped in realization.

"Sweet cheese and crackers!" She said. The others looked and Ron grew concerned.

"You think?" He asked.

"Dear God." Nick said. All four then ran towards the flames, Judy leading them. When they got to the scene, Judy's eyes widened and her ears flattened as the building caved in on itself.

"This is no coincidence." Ron said.

"The Arson Unit is gonna have a field day with this." Kiara said.

"Two fires on the same night," Nick said, "and at properties owned by the same mammals. Ron, was your home owned by the mammals that owned the two apartment complexes?"

"I purchased it from them at a discount because of the murders that took place inside it." Ron said.

"We have a pattern." Wanda said.

"Someone's targeting them." Kiara said. Nick put a paw on Judy's shoulder, causing her to look at him with tears in her eyes.

"We need to find these bastards." She said.

"We will, Carrots. We will." Nick said. Judy then sniffled as ZFD arrived at the second scene, hugging Nick tight and sobbing into his chest. Ron and Nick looked at each other, nodding.

'These bastards are gonna pay.' The two thought.

[The next day….]

"They WHAT?!" Judy and Ron asked.

"The Arson Unit never put it together until you four had last night. Similar fires had been set at over a MULTITUDE of properties under their names. Safe to say we're not dealing with the average arsonist." Bogo said.

"We're dealing with a damned pyromaniac." Ron said.

"Language!" Bogo said.

"It's rated 'M,' Chief. Relax!" Ron said. [Author's Note: Can we NOT break the fourth wall, please? Thank you.]

"Uh," Judy said, "what are you both talking about?"

"Not important." Bogo said.

"Anyways," Ron said, "is the Arson Unit taking credit?"

"Nope. They're giving the credit to you for figuring out the pattern. They're looking into the past associates and disgruntled tenants of your landlord, Hopps." Bogo said.

"I hope they find something." Judy said.

"For now," Bogo said, "I talked with City Hall. They made the call to put you and Nolan in a hotel until you can find suitable homes."

"That's coming out of our pay." Ron said, matter-of-factly. Nick then saw the dejected look on Judy's face, getting serious.

"I'll take Hopps in until she can find a home." He said. Bogo and Judy looked at him in shock.

"Nick?" Judy asked.

"You know as well as I do that the hotel City Hall will put you in will be one infested with roaches and bugs. We're just Officers, fluff. Lowest on the totem pole. Ron's the third highest at Sergeant," Nick said, "meaning City Hall will put him in a semi-decent hotel until he can find a home. I, for one, refuse to let you sleep in a room infested with roaches and bugs. Finnick left me his old place and started living out of his van. I have a spare room. It's yours. If I had enough room for Ron, I'd do the same for him." Judy was bewildered.

"That's… actually kind of you, Wilde. I was half expecting you to suggest she stay in the nap room." Bogo said.

"Too many already sleep in there," Nick said, "and I know of a few that sneak in a quickie in the nap room before heading back out on patrol. Would YOU want to sleep in another mammal's 'essence' and not know it? Nap too long you'll be marked."

"Marked?" Judy asked.

"It's something predators do to signify their mates," Ron said, "and let other predators know that a girl is off limits. It's like an engagement ring, but for a predator's nose."

"I see. So I wouldn't be able to pick up on such a smell." Judy said.

"Precisely." Nick said.

"How long does one last?" Judy asked.

"It depends on the situation. Most are harmless," Ron explained, "and can easily wash off with a shower. Like, for example, if I were to put my coat around you after I had sweated trying to reach you in order to save your life. It would give the appearance, but it wouldn't be a true mark."

"So a true mark wouldn't wash off that easily." Judy surmised.

"No," Nick said, "it wouldn't. Some of them could even be permanent, depending on the predator. To challenge a mark is to challenge the relationship one has with another."

"Predators can tell when someone was marked because of our noses. For example," Ron said, "when I served Alvarez's ex with divorce papers. I knew who to give them to because I smelled him on her."

"So his scent serves as the mark!" Judy concluded.

"Exactly." Ron said.

"So," Judy said, "how DOES one get a true mark?"

"You can guess." Ron said. Judy then thought about it and her eyes widened. She then blushed lightly, but enough to be noticed.

"I see." She spoke.

"That is just ONE way. The other is when a predator leaves a bite mark on their mate's neck. Specifically at the nape." Kiara said.

"I take it you know from experience." Bogo said.

"I was with Special Victims when they asked for a canvas one time. I picked up on quite a bit." Kiara said.

"Seems I still have much to learn." Judy said.

"Don't worry, Judy. We'll be there to help you." Wanda said.

"Yeah. We'll be able to teach you things about predators that you never thought possible." Kiara said.

"In turn," Judy said, "I could teach you things about preys." Bogo smiled before getting an idea.

"You know," Bogo said, "I've been thinking of forming a Special Investigations Unit."

"Special Investigations? Isn't that just the Major Crimes Unit?" Ron asked.

"Not quite. You see," Bogo said, "many citizens of Zootopia don't necessarily trust the Major Crimes Unit on certain cases. I hear one in particular was given the nickname 'Vulture' because he takes over the investigation when it's just about solved."

"Pawbrooke." The five said.

"Yup. Anyways," Bogo continued, "things didn't seem like they were going well. So, I had him transferred to a different unit, only for him to do the same there. It got to the point where I considered putting him in SWAT. However, I knew he would just do the same thing over and over again. So, I put in a request to have him transferred to the Transit Authority. However, the damage he did to the ZPD was already done. It was so bad that City Hall got involved." The five caught on immediately.

"The initiative that allowed me to join ZPD." Judy said.

"Precisely." Bogo said.

"Pawbrooke was never heard from again, was he?" Ron asked. Bogo gave a sigh.

"He was found disemboweled in a shipping container three weeks in." Bogo said.

"Yikes. Who'd he piss off?" Nick asked.

"Someone from the Russian Mafia." Bogo said.

"Yeesh! Remind me never to cross those guys." Nick said.

"Point is," Bogo said, "Former Mayor Lionhardt shut the Major Crimes Unit down. Since then, I've had to rely on Detectives to work the cases they normally would."

"So," Ron said, "you want to form a Special Investigations Unit to take the stress off them, and have said unit work in conjunction with other units to give insight into what cases they may have."

"Very perceptive, Nolan. Just what I'd expect from a Sergeant." Bogo said. This caused Judy to raise a valid question.

"Why are you telling this to us?" She asked. Bogo then leaned back, smiling.

"Because I would like for you five to BE the Special Investigations Unit." He said. This took them for a loop.

"Us?!" Kiara asked.

"We barely know each other!" Wanda said.

"Yet all five of you have been together for the past few days," Bogo said, "and have given insight to an arson case. You seem to get along well, too. If not, why did Nolan volunteer to serve the divorce papers for the process servers?" This caused the five to look at each other. Nick then gave a smile before looking at Bogo.

"Would we get to choose a name for the unit?" He asked.

"I don't like nicknames for my units." Bogo said, his face serious.

"Just a question. I think Special Investigations has a nice ring to it." Nick said.

"What about our vehicles? Would they be the same?" Kiara asked. Bogo smiled before chuckling.

"You think those vehicles will be enough? They're patrol vehicles! You'd stick out like someone in an orange jumpsuit!" Bogo said.

"Then we'll need new vehicles. Unmarked ones." Ron said.

"Unmarked vehicles? In Zootopia?" Wanda asked.

"That a problem?" Ron asked.

"Wouldn't that be deceiving everyone?" Wanda asked. Judy then caught on.

"That's the point of it. If the suspects think we aren't watching," Judy said, "they'll commit their crimes right in front of us! We'd be hidden in plain sight!"

"Making criminals even more wary when they commit their crimes. Marked vehicles are obvious," Nick said, "but unmarked ones aren't. For all intents and purposes, we should look at SUVs. Keep the lighting on the interior, but have some on the bumper guard to make us known to the marked vehicles."

"I have the perfect one in mind. Dodge just put out a Durango not that long ago that would be perfect for us. Three of those as unmarked ZPD vehicles will let the citizens of Zootopia know that we're different from the others." Ron said. Bogo smiled and gave a nod.

"You all seem to have the general idea." He said.

"Maybe we know each other better than we thought." Judy said.

"Maybe." Kiara said.

"We just need a solid location for the SIU to get started." Ron said.

"I hear City Hall is looking to demolish an unused warehouse. We can requisition that." Wanda said.

"How big is it?" Nick asked.

"Big enough." Wanda said.

"I'll speak to City Hall about it on Monday." Bogo said.

"I guess it's official!" Kiara said. Bogo smiled before standing up.

"As of right now," he said, "it's unconfirmed. I need to clear it with City Hall. However, I'm certain they'll listen to reason once I show them the COMPSTAT reports. Commissioner Reagan has even endorsed the idea. It just has to be approved by City Hall first."

"Being Police Commissioner must be a stressful job." Nick said.

"I can agree with that. Though," Bogo said, "being Chief of Department can be stressful, too. I'm sure you know what I mean."

"Loud and clear." Nick said. Wanda then looked at Ron and smiled.

"You know," she said, "I might have room for a guest in my hotel room. They DID give me two keys."

"Optics." Ron said.

"Just a coworker looking out for another. Nothing meant by it." Wanda said. Ron gave a grin.

"Guess I'll be taking the couch." He said.

"Such a gentleman." Wanda said, looking slightly offended.

"You rather I share the bed with you and risk an awkward moment?" Ron asked.

"Point taken." Wanda said, the offense being replaced by realization.

"We should all go for the night. Might have a big day on Monday." Ron said.

"I'll keep you posted." Bogo said.

"Please do, Chief." Ron said. The five of them then left and Bogo gave a smile.

'They're the perfect team.' He thought.

[Later that night….]

Ron was walking along the street when he saw Nikki curled up in an alley, bleeding from a wound in her stomach. He ran to her, concern going over him, before using a paw to put pressure on the wound.

"Forrester, you okay?" He asked. Nikki looked at him and took a shaky breath.

"S-Sergeant. I…. I don't know what happened." She spoke.

"Relax. Try not to move." Ron said, pulling his phone out. He dialed a number and Nikki looked at him.

"W-what are you?" She asked. Someone then answered on the other line and Ron got serious.

"This is Sergeant Ron Nolan," he said, "badge number 0176. I need ZFD at my current GPS location. We have a 10-33! Officer down!" Ron then hung up and looked at Nikki.

"W-why? Why would you do this? Y-you're s-s-supposed to h-have t-th-the day off." Nikki spoke.

"Even on a day off," Ron said, "an Officer in the ZPD is on call. Conserve your strength." Nikki then put a hand on Ron's leg and gave a smile.

"Your mate must be a lucky gal." She said.

"I don't have one." Ron said. Nikki then looked at Ron in shock, but soon felt her hand instinctually move to Ron's crotch.

'No! Not here!' She thought.

"I understand your instincts," Ron said, "and I know of your past. If you need 'that type' of relief, I'll have to ask you to stop. I don't want to risk marking you."

"That's only if you insert it in my pussy. My mouth doesn't count." Nikki said.

"The answer is still 'no' regardless. Help is almost here." Ron said, identifying sirens. Nikki soon heard them and moved her hand away. Soon enough, Several ZPD vehicles showed up, and ZFD wasn't too far behind. Three paramedics then ran up, two of them wheeling a gurney,

"What do we got?!" One asked.

"Single wound to the stomach! She's lost about three pints of blood!" Ron said. The paramedics then took over and started treating her, administering immediate first aid before getting her on the gurney and putting her in the ambulance. Several Officers then got serious.

"What are our orders, Sergeant?" One asked.

"Four of you go with them to the hospital! The rest of you are to work the scene! We do this by the book! Even if the victim is one of our own! Understood?!" Ron asked.

"YES, SIR!" The Officers yelled.

"Move out!" Ron said.

[The next day….]

Nick was relaxing in bed, soon feeling a paw on his chest. He looked and saw it belonged to Judy, who was still sleeping. After hearing of what happened to Nikki the previous night, Judy was so worried that Nick had to be by her side the whole night. This meant the two of them had to share a bed… again. This time, it was Nick's.

'I hope she doesn't ask to share a bed EVERY night.' Nick thought. His attention was then brought back to what happened to Nikki. Nick's phone soon lit up with a message and he looked, seeing it was from Ron. Judy soon woke up as Nick looked at the message. She looked at Nick, who gave a sigh of relief.

"Any news?" Judy asked.

"Forrester is going to be fine. They caught the assailant last night, too. It was all done by the book, per Ron's instructions." Nick said. Judy gave a sigh of relief.

"Thank God. Also," Judy said, "sorry for last night. I'm sure you didn't want me sharing a bed with you again. If you need me to leave while you handle yourself, I can."

"Carrots," Nick said, "it's fine. I was worried for her, too. Plus, if anyone needs to handle themselves, it's you."

"Why do you say that?" Judy asked.

"Because I can smell it on you." Nick said. Judy soon felt herself and gasped when she felt she was damp.

"I must have had a wet dream last night." Judy spoke, blushing a bit.

"Bathroom is through that door." Nick said, pointing to a door. Judy then sprung out of the bed, going into the bathroom and turning the shower on. Nick then sighed and got up, going to start a pot of coffee. He then heard a thud from in the bathroom and grew concerned.

'Huh?' Nick thought.

"Judy," Nick said, "you okay in there?" All he heard was a groan in response. Nick then steeled his nerves and went into the bathroom, seeing Judy on the floor.

'Dear God!' He thought.

"Carrots!" Nick said. He ran to her, kneeling down as she groaned.

"I'm okay, Nick. I just slipped and fell trying to get into the shower." Judy said. Nick then helped her up, looking over her.

"I don't see any cuts or contusions. Just to be safe," Nick said, "I'll help you into the shower. That okay with you?" Judy nodded in response and Nick helped her into the shower.

"Thanks, Nick. Sorry you had to see me like this." She said.

"I was only looking where I wouldn't make you uncomfortable." Nick said. He then went to leave, but Judy stopped him.

"I…. I don't mind if you look, Nick." She said. Nick was taken aback. Judy then turned him to face her and put his hands at her chest.

"What Ron said about you was true, wasn't it?" Nick asked.

"I could ask the same about you." Judy said. Nick was speechless, but Judy knew the answer. She then undressed him, pulling him into the shower afterwards.

"Judy," Nick said, "if we do this, I'd be marking you."

"I wouldn't have pulled you into the shower if I didn't know that." Judy said. Nick was stunned once again.

"You WANT me to mark you? We're not even dating!" Nick said.

"Then why do your eyes scream that you want to mark me?" Judy asked. Nick was shocked, but he then gave a sigh.

"I'll have to remember not to lie in front of you. You could be an excellent profiler." Nick said.

"What's stopping you, Nick?" Judy asked.

"I don't want things to be awkward between us if we don't work out! You're a great friend," Nick said, "and an even greater partner! I'm just worried that I'll lash out and do something stupid if you get pregnant and say you want an abortion. I had a nightmare about that once! I'm just…."

"Scared of the unknown?" Judy asked.

"Yeah." Nick said.

"Nick," Judy said, "I'm not gonna lie, I had my share of nightmares, too. However, if I believed those nightmares would come true, I never would have joined ZPD in the first place. Meaning, I never would have met you, the Night Howler Incident would never be solved, and you would still be a con artist instead of one of the ZPD's finest Officers. I know it might be scary, but… I'm willing to take the risk." Nick was shocked, but soon saw something that he never thought he would see from Judy: total trust in him.

"Judy," Nick said, "I don't want to betray your trust."

"You won't, Nick. Please just listen to your heart. What does it tell you?" Judy asked. Nick then thought about it before seeing the same look in Judy's eyes.

"You say it first." Nick said. Judy then teared up, but soon smiled.

"I love you, Nick." Judy said. Nick then smiled and held her close to him.

"I love you, too, Judy." He said.

"Prove it to me." Judy said. Nick then kissed Judy on the lips, passion filling the kiss. Judy returned the kiss in kind, putting a paw on his face. Nick broke the kiss, a serious look in his face.

"I say we wait. I don't want to mark you just yet. We should take it slow. Okay?" Nick asked. Judy smiled and nodded.

"I can respect that." She said.

[Meanwhile….]

Ron took a sip of coffee, sighing after. He looked at a TV screen to see a news story of what happened last night. The screen then turned off, Ron looking to see Wanda.

"You don't need any reminders of that." She said.

"At least she survived it. Unfortunately," Ron said, "the attacker punctured her uterus with the weapon they used. She's never gonna have children of her own."

"A shame really." Wanda said.

"Yeah. A damn shame." Ron said. He then got up and stretched, a few of his joints popping.

"Anyways," Wanda said, "we don't work until tomorrow. Got any plans?"

"Other than house hunting?" Ron asked.

"Good luck." Wanda said.

"I already tried it. Whole lot of nothing." Ron said.

"Damn. That doesn't bode well." Wanda said.

"Considering we have to share a hotel room until we can BOTH find a suitable place to live," Ron said, "I'd rather go savage from Night Howlers."

"That's a bit extreme," Wanda said, "but I can understand it."

"Anyways," Ron said, "given I have nothing better to do, I'll have a look at different housing complexes."

"I think I'll do the same." Wanda said. Kiara then called Wanda, who answered almost immediately. Kiara then said something on the phone that caused Wanda to look at Ron. Ron sensed fear and solemnity, looking at her.

"What is it?" Ron asked.

[Meanwhile….]

Nick sighed as he finished drinking a cup of coffee. He looked and saw Judy smiling as she was on the phone with her parents. However, not even seconds later, Nick got a call from Ron.

'Huh? Why is he calling?' Nick thought. He then picked up his phone and answered.

"Go for Wilde." Nick spoke, smiling. However, as Ron spoke, his smile faded and his eyes went wide. His jaw then dropped and Judy looked at him, sensing distress.

"Mom, Dad, I'll have to call you back." Judy said, ending her call. She went over to Nick, panic in her eyes.

"I…. I understand. We'll meet you there." Nick said, hanging up soon after.

"Meet where, Nick? What's going on?" Judy asked. Nick then looked at her, tears forming in his eyes.

"Chief Bogo needs us to report to the hospital in uniform immediately." Nick said.

"Why? He gave us he weekend? Why would he-?!" Judy asked.

"Forrester was found dead in her hospital room." Nick said. Judy felt as if she had been hit by a ton of bricks.

"W-what?" She asked.

"She's dead, Jude. Forrester's dead." Nick spoke, his voice breaking.

"Oh, God." Judy said.

[At the hospital….]

Ron, Kiara, Wanda, Nick, and Judy walked towards the ICU. Chief Bogo approached them, his face solemn.

"The one who found her is at the Nurse's Station. Crime Scene's on their way." He said.

"Shouldn't this go to two Detectives?" Ron asked.

"City Hall approved the SIU. Effective immediately." Bogo said.

"I thought only Detectives could be assigned to specialized units other than SWAT." Judy said.

"Hopps, Wilde, Pride, Alvarez," Bogo spoke, "you've all been promoted to Detective First Grade. Effective immediately." Ron gave a sigh before nodding.

"Keep all unauthorized personnel out of the crime scene. Hopps, Wilde, talk to the one who discovered the victim. Pride, Alvarez, investigate the scene. I'll talk to hospital security and see if they have any CCTV footage." Ron said. The four nodded in agreement.

"You got it, boss." Nick said. Time slowed as Ron turned, and the five of them started walking past Bogo. Many ZPD looked at them, each one with a look of gratitude. Ron looked to his left and saw Nikki's partner, crying as they were being comforted by other Officers. They looked at Ron before looking away in utter shame. Ron looked ahead, time resuming as the five split apart. Ron went towards the security desk while Judy and Nick went to the Nurse's Station. Kiara and Wanda went to the crime scene. Nick and Judy then saw one of the nurses, comforting a young fox kit.

"Excuse me?" Judy asked. The nurse looked at her and grew serious.

"Can I help you?" They asked.

"I'm Detective Hopps, ZPD. This is my partner, Detective Wilde. We were told the one who found the victim was at the Nurse's Station. We need to collect their statement." Judy spoke. The nurse sighed, looking solemn.

"Apologies. I'm just trying to do what's best for the kit. Poor thing screamed when they found her." The nurse said.

"The kit did?" Nick asked.

"Yes. Poor thing isn't old enough to speak yet." The nurse said. The fox kit then started tearing up as Nikki's body was being taken to the ZPD Crime Lab's Morgue. Nick then walked over and knelt down.

"Look over this way, little one." Nick spoke. The kit looked at Nick, who gave a soft and calming smile. The kit then pointed to Nikki's body, tears starting to flow.

"M-m-m-m-mama!" The kit spoke. The nurse was shocked, and Judy looked at the Coroner.

"Run a paternity test on the victim and the one who found her." She said.

"We will." The Coroner said, his voice solemn. Nick then picked the fox kit up and held them close.

"Hush now, little one. We'll find out what happened." He spoke, his voice soft and calming. The kit buried its face into Nick's shirt, Nick gently holding them and petting their head. Judy was beyond disbelief at the sight.

"We'll contact CPS. See if the father is around." Judy said.

"He seems pretty good at that." The nurse said.

"Yeah," Judy said, "he does."

[Meanwhile….]

Wanda and Kiara searched the room Nikki was in, mammals from the Crime Scene Unit helping.

"I haven't found anything so far. You?" Kiara asked.

"Nothing yet. Any of you CSIs find anything?" Wanda asked.

"Nothing yet, ma'am." One of them said. One CSI then looked under the bed and got serious.

"I might have something here." They said. Wanda and Kiara then approached as the CSI was pulling something from under the bed.

"What is it?" Kiara asked. The CSI then held up a survival knife that had blood on it.

"Possible murder weapon." The CSI said.

"Bag it. Run the blood against the victim." Kiara said. Wanda then looked out, smiling as she saw Nick comforting the fox kit. Kiara saw it, too, and saw Judy approach. Nick then knelt down and Judy took the fox kit, smiling as Judy held it. The fox kit smiled and grabbed Judy's paw. Judy seemed to have melted, smiling brightly. Wanda and Kiara looked at each other, nodding simultaneously, pulling out their phones and getting a picture of the cute scene.

'This is going viral.' Wanda said.

"If you know what's good for you," Nick spoke, not even looking at them, "you'll delete those photos. I don't think Ron will be happy if he sees that you care more about what we're doing than what he told you to do. Will he?" Kiara and Wanda then swiftly deleted the photos.

[Meanwhile….]

Ron looked at the security footage, taking note of everything. However, he then noticed someone walk in dressed in a suit. He paid attention to the time, taking note of what the mammal looked like. Not too long after the mammal went in, they came out. Ron saw blood on them.

"Come on. Show your face." Ron muttered. The mammal looked around before the camera got a view of their face. Ron stopped the footage there, having a slight grin.

'Gotcha.' He thought. He then downloaded the footage on a flash drive and put it in an evidence bag. He passed it off to a CSI, looking serious.

"Get this analyzed immediately." He said.

"Right away, Sergeant." The CSI said. They then left and Ron motioned a security guard over. The guard came over, looking nervous.

"Y-yes, sir?" The guard asked.

"Relax. You're not in trouble. Has he ever came to the hospital before?" Ron asked. The guard looked at the screen and shook their head.

"No. I've never seen them before." They said.

"This mammal was the last one to see the victim alive. They may very well be the one who killed the victim. Are you sure you've never seen them before?" Ron asked.

"I'm positive, sir. I've never seen them before. Not as a patient, visitor, or otherwise." The guard said.

"Alright. If they show up again," Ron said, "call us immediately. Don't try and be a hero." The guard nodded and Ron got up and left. He then went to the Nurse's Station, seeing Nick and Judy with the fox kit.

"Oh! Here comes our boss!" Nick said, having a slight cheerful tone.

"Is there a reason you two are playing with a fox kit?" Ron asked.

"The little one found the victim." Judy said. Ron soon went on alert.

"Run that by me again." He spoke.

"The kit found the victim. We think it might be Nikki's." Judy said.

"What makes you say that?" Ron asked.

"It pointed to Nikki's body as she was being wheeled out and said 'mama.' Does that count?" Judy asked. Ron gave a sigh.

"Did you ask for a paternity test?" He asked.

"Crime lab's working on it now." Judy said.

"CPS?" Ron asked.

"Can't pick the kit up until tomorrow." Judy said. Ron mentally berated himself. However, the kit soon held its arms out to him. Nick and Judy were stunned, as was Ron.

"I think this little one wants you, boss." Nick said. Ron then approached and the kit reached out more, grunting.

"Easy, little one. Don't want you falling." Judy said. The kit soon lost its balance and fell out of Nick's arms. However, Ron caught them not long after.

"Careful, now. Don't want you going from a witness to a patient." Ron spoke. The kit giggled at that, causing Judy to catch on and lightly chuckle.

"That was such a dad joke." She said. Ron then held the kit close to him. The kit then gave a smile and nestled into Ron's arms.

"Fwuffy." They spoke. Ron gave a soft smile before hearing the kit fall asleep.

"We should have a doctor check them. Make sure they don't have any blood on them." Judy whispered.

"I'll deal with that. You and Wilde interview the victim's partner." Ron whispered. The two nodded and left. A pediatric doctor then approached and had a cautious look on their face.

"Is that fox kit yours?" They asked. Ron gave a look and the doctor covered their mouth.

"This fox kit is a witness," Ron whispered, "and they happen to be asleep. I suggest you don't wake them."

"Sorry. Would you like for me to check them over?" The doctor whispered.

"Lead the way." Ron whispered. The doctor then led Ron to the Pediatric Wing and to an exam room. Ron then felt the fox kit stir lightly.

"Is the little one waking up?" The doctor whispered.

"I believe so." Ron whispered. The kit then woke up and looked at Ron.

"Fwuffy?" They asked.

"That was a quick nap. A doctor is here to give you a check-up. Okay?" Ron asked. The fox kit nodded and the doctor approached, smiling.

"Hi there! I'm Dr. Manchas. I'm just gonna make sure you're healthy, okay?" The doctor said.

'Manchas?' Ron thought.

"Are you related to a Renato Manchas?" Ron asked. Dr. Manchas smiled brightly.

"He's my brother!" They said.

"I see. Glad to know he has family." Ron said.

"Just as I am glad to know he got the help he needed because you refused medical treatment." Dr. Manchas said.

"You knew who I was before you saw the kit in my arms." Ron spoke.

"I did. My brother wishes to meet you." Dr. Manchas said.

"I hope to meet him. For now," Ron said, "back to the matter at paw. Could you begin the examination, please?"

"Right." Dr. Manchas said. They then started examining the fox kit. Ron looked away, just in case. The moment the exam was over, Dr. Manchas tapped on Ron's shoulder. Ron looked at them.

"The results?" Ron asked.

"Your witness is a healthy vixen. I did find some blood in her fur. I took a sample so your crime lab could test it." Dr. Manchas said. Ron sighed.

"Thank you." Ron said.

"You're welcome." Dr. Manchas said.

"It might be time for the little one to eat." Ron said.

"Way past." Dr. Manchas said. Ron then smiled.

"I might have an idea." He said.

[Moments later….]

Ron was in Bogo's office, watching a cartoon with the kit as he fed her. Bogo gave a smile before looking away. Wanda, Kiara, Nick, and Judy then walked in, each holding a file. Ron looked at them, making sure the kit was focused on the cartoon.

"What do you got?" Ron asked.

"Autopsy report. The victim died from a laceration in their neck, severing the carotid artery." Wanda said.

"Test results on the knife found at the scene," Kiara said, "and the fur from the kit. They were a match to the victim."

"Paternity test came through. The kit belonged to the victim." Judy said.

"The father?" Ron asked.

"Died before the kit was born. Thrown in front of a train." Judy said.

"Kit's an orphan then." Ron said.

"CPS will pick them up tomorrow." Judy said.

"What about the security footage? Anything on that?" Ron asked.

"You knew there was something. One mammal entered the victim's room within the timeframe. Facial recognition identified them." Nick said. Ron went on alert.

"Facial rec got a hit?" Ron asked. Nick nodded.

"Suspect's name is Nikolai Grigori. Has an address in the Rainforest District. SWAT's gearing up now." Nick said.

"Pride and Alvarez, go with. We need him alive!" Ron said.

"You got it, boss." Kiara said. The TV then went to static for a bit before a group of mammals came onscreen.

"Citizens of Zootopia," a voice spoke, "I ask for your undivided attention."

"Sweet cheese and crackers. That's Grigori!" Judy said.

"I hope all of you have made your peace with Allah. For tonight," Grigori spoke, "you infidels will perish. All will be reborn under Allah!" Ron then looked and had flashbacks.

"Night Howlers." Ron mumbled.

"What did you say?" Judy asked.

"He has Night Howlers!" Ron said.

"What?!" Nick asked. The four then looked.

"Enjoy your last few moments. It won't be long until all of you burn under Allah's light!" Grigori said.

"That's the water treatment facility!" Wanda said.

"That supplies water to all of Zootopia," Kiara said, "and some areas outside of it!" Judy then gasped and her eyes went to pinpoints.

"Sweet cheese and crackers!" She said.

"What is it?" Kiara asked. Ron then caught on.

"Aren't your parents carrot farmers, Hopps?" He asked.

"They are." She said. Ron then looked at Kiara.

"Tell me the water treatment facility DOESN'T supply water to Bunnyburrow." He spoke.

"That would be a lie." Kiara said.

"Is this a live feed?!" Ron asked.

"Clock on the wall shows the current time and date!" Nick said.

"Get SWAT and other units redirected," Ron ordered, "and inform the National Guard!"

"ZFP is mobilizing now! Same with ZI6!" Bogo said.

"They're taking lead?" Ron asked.

"That a problem?" Bogo asked.

"Rule 38." Ron said. Bogo's eyes widened before he dialed a number.

"It's Bogo. SIU has evidence that Grigori killed ZPD Officer Nikki Forrester. Nolan's invoking rule 38!" Bogo said.

"I don't understand! What's rule 38?!" Nick asked. Judy then caught on and gasped.

"Your case, you're lead." She said.

"Of course! Gibbs' rules!" Kiara said.

"Who?!" Nick asked.

"The founder of ZFP and ZI6." Wanda said. Bogo then hung up and looked at Ron.

"They agreed to it. SIU has lead!" He said.

"Gear up, you four!" Ron said. Nick looked at Ron.

"What about you?!" He asked.

"Someone needs to stay with the kit." Ron said. Nick was going to object, but soon realized the logic behind it and nodded.

"We'll keep you posted." Nick said.

"I'll be listening in! Go!" Ron said. The four then left and hurried to gear up.

[At the water treatment facility….]

Several mammals were gearing up from ZPD, ZFP, ZI6, and the National Guard. They were all ready to move in, but stopped as sirens were heard approaching. They looked and saw two ZPD cruisers approaching. The two cruisers stopped and Nick, Judy, Wanda, and Kiara stepped out of them. They all approached, in full tactical gear, and everyone went around them.

"Alright! Listen up! Sgt. Nolan is indisposed at the moment," Nick said, "but SIU still has lead! Right now, you're being passed a picture! This is our suspect! His name is Nikolai Grigori! He killed a ZPD Officer! Now, he's revealing himself as a terrorist!"

"He's looking to poison our water supply with Night Howlers!" Judy said.

"He must be stopped at all costs," Kiara said, "but we need him alive!"

"Whose vehicle is closest?!" Wanda asked.

"Mine!" A voice said. Wanda looked and saw Officer Wolford.

"Anything goes wrong in there," Wanda said, "your car is the hospital car!"

"Understood!" Wolford said.

"Fill the gaps! Stay liquid!" Kiara said. Someone from SWAT then racked a rifle, looking serious.

"Let's get this bastard." They said.

"SWAT has point! ZFP HRT follows them, National Guard follows them! Everyone else is on us! Stay in formation at all times! LET'S KEEP THE PEACE!!!!" Judy yelled.

"You heard the bunny! Stack up! Prepare for entry!" A SWAT Captain said.

"Get those Bearcats to the front!" A ZFP HRT Agent said.

"Two columns! One behind each Bearcat!" A soldier said.

"Two teams! Strike and Suppression!" Kiara said.

"Nick and I will lead the Strike team." Judy said.

"We'll take Suppression." Wanda said.

"Just in case we don't survive this," Nick said, "it's been an honor serving with you ladies."

"Don't talk like that, Nick. We're all getting out of this." Kiara said. The four then split into their two teams and gave the signal to move in. Everyone there then stayed in formation as they made their way into the facility. The teams split up and the Suppression team used stealth and the element of surprise to their advantage. They quietly arrested Grigori's followers, saving some hostages they took in the process, before the Strike team was near where Grigori was. They all watched as Grigori had finished preparing the Night Howlers to go into the water supply.

"At last. You infidels will now be reborn under Allah!" Grigori spoke.

"We made it just in time." Nick whispered. Grigori then spoke in Arabic, causing others to be confused.

"Can we get a translation on what he's saying?" Judy whispered.

"He's basically giving last rites to us." A soldier said.

"Great." Nick whispered.

"Get ready to move on our mark." Judy whispered. SWAT, HRT, and National Guard then prepared flashbangs. They primed them and rolled them towards Grigori and his top followers. Time then slowed to a near stop as the flashbangs rolled closer to Grigori.

"Three…" Nick whispered. Everyone got ready, preparing for the surprise.

"Two…" Judy whispered. One of the flashbangs then touched Grigori, causing him to look at it.

"One…" Nick whispered. Grigori looked at it before getting confused. However, by the time he realized what was happening, it was already too late. Time resumed to normal as the flashbangs went off.

"GRAAAHHHH!!!!" Grigori yelled, being blinded.

"GO! GO! GO!" Judy yelled. Everyone moved in immediately.

"POLICE! SEARCH WARRANT! POLICE! SEARCH WARRANT!" A SWAT mammal said.

"ZFP! DON'T MOVE! ON THE GROUND!" A HRT Agent said.

"DOWN ON THE GROUND!" A soldier yelled. Grigori's top followers surrendered, but Grigori ran.

"Suspect running!" Wolford said.

"We got him!" Nick said. Both he and Judy then started chasing after him. They followed his exact path, being mindful of their surroundings. Eventually, Grigori got to the very top, stopping when he saw the edge. He saw the long drop down before panting. Nick and Judy then exited behind him and aimed their Tranquilizer Guns at Grigori.

"It's over, Grigori! Give up!" Judy said.

"I must do this! It's the Will of Allah!" Grigori said.

"What about killing Officer Forrester? Was that the Will of Allah?" Nick asked.

"Leaving her daughter an orphan? Was THAT the Will of Allah?!" Judy asked. Grigori soon paled.

"Y-you lie. Меня заверили, что у ребенка есть живой родитель!" Grigori said.

"What?" Judy asked, confused. Nick, however, glared seriously.

"It's Russian. He said he was assured that Nikki's daughter had a living parent." Nick said. Grigori was shocked.

"You know Russian?" He asked.

"Да. I do. Enough to translate," Nick said, "but not speak it. I dare not try unless I want to get disemboweled by the Russian Mafia."

"I didn't know. You have to believe me." Grigori said.

"Her father died before she was born." Nick said.

"All she had was her mother," Judy said, "and you took her mother's life!"

"Why are you acting like this? Why do you believe it's MY fault?!" Grigori asked.

"Because you were caught coming out of the victim's hospital room by the camera." Nick said. Grigori's eyes widened.

"It's over." Judy said.

"I…. I can't go back! I refuse!" Grigori said. He then charged, drawing a knife. Nick and Judy moved out of the way, putting their guns away and moving to disarm him. The three fought as a police helicopter arrived, hovering overhead.

"Air 1 to all units! Suspect is on the roof with 7-Adam-01 engaged in CQC! They'll need some backup!" A voice spoke. Grigori then glared intensely and growled, charging at Judy. However, Nick saw the opportunity and kicked him in the face. Grigori stumbled back, dazed. Nick panted and held the leg that kicked Grigori. Judy went to him, but Nick shook his head, motioning for her to stop him. She nodded as Grigori charged again. She then managed to disarm him, and put him in a submission hold. However, as Grigori tried to fight his way out, he snapped his own neck. Judy heard the snap and gasped, letting him go. Grigori slumped over and Judy checked for a pulse on him.

"Judy?" Nick asked.

"Sweet cheese and crackers. What have I done?" Judy whispered.

"Carrots?!" Nick asked. Judy then panicked and pulled out her radio.

"This is 7-Adam-01. We have a 10-33. One officer down. Suspect is down. Requesting immediate medical assistance! Code three high!" Judy said.

"Fluff!" Nick said.

"It's all my fault. I killed him. It's all my fault!" Judy mumbled.

"JUDE!" Nick yelled. Judy looked at him, fear in her eyes. Nick dragged himself to her, pulling her close.

"N-Nick?" She asked.

"He broke his neck trying to fight out. Okay? You didn't kill him. He did it himself. Air 1 probably got it on video. You're not responsible." Nick spoke. Judy then teared up and held Nick close, sniffling.

"I'm sorry you got hurt." She spoke, her voice breaking.

"Hazard of the job. He probably just hit a nerve that temporarily paralyzed the leg. Docs will know more once they examine me." Nick said. Kiara and Wanda then got to the roof and ran to Nick and Judy as others went to Grigori.

"Alright! Wilde can't move a leg! Wolford!" Wanda said.

"On it!" Wolford said.

"I'll ride with!" Judy said.

"Sergeant will meet you there!" Kiara said. Two others then got Nick up and they made their way to Wolford's vehicle.

[Hours later….]

Judy sighed as she looked over the report. Nick put a paw on her shoulder, smiling.

"Relax, fluff. You were cleared." He said. Bogo and Ron then walked in and Judy stood up.

"Easy, Hopps. It's just us." Bogo said.

"How you feeling, Nick?" Ron asked.

"I'm good. Doc says my muscles were overextended when I gave that kick. Says I should be good to move on my own tomorrow morning." Nick said.

"Judy?" Ron asked. Judy then handed Ron the report, saying nothing.

'Huh?' Ron thought.

"Autopsy report on the suspect." Judy said. Ron took it and Judy started leaving the room.

"Hopps?" Bogo asked.

"I need some air." Judy said. She then left the room, and Nick looked concerned.

"I don't understand. Did something happen between you two?" Bogo asked. Nick sighed.

"She thinks that she's responsible for Grigori's death. IA already cleared her." He spoke. Ron looked at the report.

"His neck was snapped?" Ron asked.

"Grigori snapped it trying to fight out of the submission hold he was in." Nick said.

"I can see why she blames herself." Bogo said. Ron then had a sinking feeling.

"I'm gonna check on her." He said. Ron set the file down and left the room. He then went on instinct and went to the pharmacy. He saw the door open and approached just in time to see Judy with a syringe that had euthanasia in it, ready to inject it into her.

"I'm sorry." She mumbled. Ron then ran in and grabbed the syringe from her, causing her to gasp and look at him. He set the syringe down and looked at her.

"What were you just thinking of doing?!" Ron asked.

"It was my hold that killed him." Judy said, her eyes dark.

"No, it wasn't! He snapped his neck trying to fight out of it! You were already cleared for this, Judy! Why would you try and euthanize yourself?!" Ron asked.

"Because if I hadn't put him in that hold," Judy said, "if I tried knocking him out instead, he wouldn't have broken his neck!"

"He had medical condition that gave him a weak neck!" Ron said. Judy was stunned.

"W-what?" She asked.

"It was in the report. He was born with CIDP. He was in and out of hospitals his whole life." Ron said. Judy teared up and Ron knelt down to her.

"Why must I be cursed like this?" Judy asked.

"You're not cursed. You're just good at your job." Ron said. Judy sniffled, looking at Ron.

'Is this what it means to be a cop?' She thought.

"Talk to me, Judy. What's REALLY bothering you?" Ron asked. Judy clenched her eyes as tears started flowing.

"I was so concerned for Nick when he got hurt," Judy said, "but he had me focus on stopping Grigori. I thought Grigori was gonna kill him! That's why I put him in the submission hold!"

"You were concerned for your partner's safety," Ron said, "and wanted to protect him at all costs."

"It's more than that!" Judy said.

"Talk to me." Ron said.

"I was concerned for Nick more than Grigori! I know it's normal," Judy said, "but for me it's different! I…. I was concerned for him in more than one way!"

"He's your friend, right?" Ron asked. Judy then blushed lightly.

"I…. I see him as more than that." She spoke. Ron then caught on.

"You have romantic feelings for him." Ron said.

"I know I shouldn't," Judy said, "but I…. I… damn it! I can't help it! I-I-I'm a fucking FREAK!"

"No you aren't." Ron said.

"I'm a prey in love with a predator!" Judy said.

"You're a bunny in love with a fox! It's obvious he cares about you, too! If he didn't care about you," Ron said, "he wouldn't have told Bogo and I that you felt responsible for Grigori's death! He wouldn't have told ME! Me and you were in the same class, Judy! What do think Nick would have done if HE saw you trying to euthanize yourself?! WHAT WOULD HE DO?!?!" Judy clenched her eyes and hugged Ron tight, sobbing. Ron gently returned the embrace.

"I'm sorry. I'm so sorry!" She cried.

"I don't need the apology." Ron spoke. Judy then understood and tried to compose herself. Ron then led her back to Nick's room, looking as Nick was smiling at the TV. Ron looked and saw that it was a news story about what happened at the water treatment facility. Specifically, about the fight between Judy and Grigori. Bogo then watched intently as the footage from Air 1 was played. Bogo then saw Judy put Grigori in the submission hold.

"Oh!" He said, impressed.

"It was better live." Nick said. Ron then motioned Judy forwards, which she didn't argue. Judy walked in and Nick looked at her. His face went to one of concern.

'Did something happen?' He thought.

"Could you close the door, Ron?" Judy asked. Ron then closed the door and Bogo grew concerned.

"Is everything okay, Hopps?" He asked.

"Chief," Judy said, "I… I'd like to request a two month vacation."

"Fluff? Is everything alright? Did something happen to a member of your family?" Nick asked. Judy then teared up again, shaking her head.

"I just need some time off." She said.

"Hey! Hey! What's wrong, Judy?" Nick asked. Ron then went serious before sighing.

"I just stopped her from euthanizing herself not too long ago." Ron said. Bogo's jaw dropped and Nick had a look of fear.

"Carrots? Y-you tried to kill yourself?!" Nick asked. Judy then ran to Nick and jumped up, grabbing him and holding him close.

"I'm sorry! I was such a dumb bunny for trying!" She cried, tears flowing. Nick then understood and gently held her, petting the top of her head.

"It's okay, Jude. It's okay. Just let it all out." Nick said. Judy didn't hold back after that point, holding Nick tight and sobbing.

"I was so scared of losing you." Judy sobbed.

"I know. I know." Nick said. Bogo then looked at Ron, nodding.

"Given the circumstances," Ron said, "I think the BOTH of you should take some time off. This experience was traumatic for the two of you. Some time off work will do you good."

"Thank you. We appreciate it." Nick said.

"Go with her to her hometown. Meet her family. Get to know who she is BEHIND the badge." Ron said.

"I know she'll do the same." Nick said.

"When you both get back," Ron said, "I expect to see the two of you in better spirits. I also expect to see that you've finally accepted your feelings of one another, and have NO regrets about it."

"Well put, Sergeant." Bogo said.

[The next day….]

Nick closed the back of a rental car, smiling.

"It was nice of Wanda to get us a rental car." Nick said. Judy smiled brightly, sitting in the driver's seat.

"Did you pack enough?" Judy asked.

"That I did. You doubt me?" Nick asked.

"It's not you that I doubt." Judy said. Nick then got in on the passenger side, smiling as Judy started the car.

"We could use a two month stay in your hometown." He said.

"Yeah. It'll be refreshing." Judy said. Judy then drove away from Nick's home.

"How about some music?" Nick asked.

"Sure." Judy said. Nick then turned the radio on.

"Alright," the DJ said, "we have a big treat for everyone. A new single by the most streamed artist in the world: Bad Bunny! Per his request, this song goes out to his relative living in Zootopia: ZPD Officer Judy Hopps! It's his latest song: Chambea!"

"Hey, hey! Talk about timing!" Nick said, listening as the song played. Judy soon saw Wanda and Kiara, then several other ZPD, blocking traffic and keeping a clear shot for her to drive to Bunnyburrow.

"Did they plan this?" Judy asked. Ron then smiled and motioned for Judy to stop. Judy rolled the window down and Ron looked in.

"Orders from City Hall. Looks like they want you relaxing as soon as possible. You have a clear shot," Ron said, "and you won't be pulled over for excessive speed." Judy looked at Nick, who smiled and pulled out some sunglasses. He put them on and grinned.

"Punch it." Nick said. Judy looked at Ron who nodded, standing back. Judy then smiled and grinned, putting the gas pedal to the floor and speeding ahead as the lyrics started. Nick moved his head to the beat of the song. The whole time, every ZPD vehicle was staying put. Judy then felt giddy and laughed before going even faster. Nick then smiled and got an idea.

"Chambea, ¡jala! Cabrón, ya no te quedan bala'. Chambea, ¡jala! Cabrón, ya no te quedan bala'. Yo siempre picheo, enrolo otra vez! Yo siempre picheo, enrolo otra vez! Yo siempre picheo, enrolo otra vez! Yo siempre picheo!" Nick sang. Judy smiled.

"Chambea, ¡jala! Cabròn, ya no te quedan bala'. Chambea, ¡jala! Cabrón, ya no te quedan bala'. Yo siempre picheo, enrolo otra vez! Yo siempre picheo, enrolo otra vez! Yo siempre picheo, enrolo otra vez! Yo siempre picheo!" Judy sang.

"RA!" Nick and Judy sang, laughing soon after. The rest of the drive was filled with fun moments.

[At Judy's Parents' house….]

Judy parked in front of her old home, smiling. Nick looked at it and grinned.

"How cozy." He said. The two then got out and walked to the door. Judy then took a breath to ease her nerves and went to knock on the door, but soon realized everyone would be awake and rang the doorbell.

"I'll get it!" A voice said. Someone then approached the door and it opened, revealing them to be Judy's father, Stu. Stu looked at Judy and Nick in utter shock and disbelief.

"Hey, dad!" Judy said.

"Judy! What a surprise!" Stu said, hugging her. Judy hugged him back and Stu quickly turned. However, Judy stopped him.

"Guys! I'm back!" She said. A gasp was heard and Bonnie peeked from a corner, her eyes immediately lighting up.

"JUDY!" She screamed. She then ran out and hugged Judy, the rest of Judy's family following suit. Judy soon giggled.

"I missed you all, too." Judy spoke. Nick stayed silent, smiling as he felt the display. Stu then saw Nick and went on alert. Judy sensed this and everyone broke their hug on her.

"Um, Jude the Dude, there's a fox behind you." Stu said. Judy giggled before standing next to Nick.

"Everyone," Judy said, "this is my partner in the ZPD, Nick Wilde."

"A pleasure to make everyone's acquaintance." Nick spoke, holding a paw out. Stu smiled and shook it.

"I'm Judy's father, Stu. This is my wife, Bonnie, Judy's mother." He said. Bonnie then shook Nick's paw and smiled.

"Nice to meet you, ma'am. I almost mistook you for Judy's sister." Nick said. Bonnie blushed a bit before giggling.

"You flatter me, Mr. Wilde!" Bonnie said.

"Please! Call me Nick! Mr. Wilde was my father," Nick said, "and I'd hate for us to be confused for the other."

"Your partner's such a gentleman, Judy!" Bonnie said.

"Now it's YOU who's flattering ME." Nick said, grinning. Bonnie laughed and Judy giggled.

"Easy, Nick. We don't need my mother falling down out of laughter." Judy spoke.

"With such a large family," Nick said, "I don't think that's a problem."

"I must agree," a voice said, "even if it is with a fox." Everyone looked and saw an elderly rabbit.

"Judy," Nick said, "you never told me your dad's brother was here." The elderly rabbit was stunned, but soon smiled and giggled.

"Quite the joker, your partner is. I'm too old to be his brother." The rabbit spoke.

"You kidding? You don't look a day over 30!" Nick said. The rabbit then laughed and looked at Judy.

"I like his chutzpah!" He said.

"Nick," Judy said, "this is my grandfather. We call him Pop-Pop."

"A pleasure to meet you, sir." Nick said.

"You're making me feel old, Judy." Pop-Pop said.

"You're not old," Nick said, "just wise beyond your years."

"Quit buttering me up!" Pop-Pop said.

"I wasn't aware I had butter on me." Nick said. Pop-Pop then laughed and looked at Judy.

"If you're here to tell us you and him are dating," he spoke, "he's already won me over! He can take jokes better than Gideon!" Judy blushed and Nick chuckled.

"Relax, wise rabbit. We're here on vacation. Haven't you read the papers?" Nick asked.

"I read them alright," Pop-Pop said, "and I'm proud of you for stopping those guys. Such a thing can be traumatic." Before anyone else could say a word, a scream caught the attention of Nick and Judy. They looked before seeing someone in black running with a little bunny.

"AUNT JUDY! HELP ME!!!!" The bunny said.

"Cotton!" Bonnie said. Nick then glared and darted after the abductor. Judy followed him, keeping the pace. Nick then saw an opportunity and jumped off a broken stand, going into the air and swinging from a tree to a rooftop. He ran along the roof as Judy stayed in pursuit of the abductor. Nick then got far enough ahead and jumped off the roof, grabbing a lamppost and swinging sideways, hitting the abductor in the face with his legs.

"GWOARAGH!" The abductor exclaimed. Cotton was sent flying, but Judy caught her in the air and landed while holding her. The abductor then charged at Nick, but Nick was smart and caught the attack before putting the abductor in a Kimura Lock. The abductor screamed out in pain, trying to fight out of it. Two National Guard MPs then ran over.

"BREAK IT UP! BREAK IT UP!" One yelled.

"Detective Nick Wilde, ZPD! This mammal tried abducting my partner's niece!" Nick said. The abductor then glared and pulled out a knife.

"HE'S GOT A KNIFE!" Cotton yelled. The abductor started to try and stab Nick, but Nick gave a glare.

"Big mistake!" Nick said. Nick then gave a swift jerk and a loud crack was heard.

"GEAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!" The abductor yelled, writhing in pain while letting go of the knife. The MPs then got ahold of the abductor and one looked at Nick.

"We got him! Let go!" They said. Nick then released the hold and the MPs took the abductor into custody.

"My arm! He broke my arm!" The abductor said.

"You tried stabbing me with a knife. Self-defense, jackass." Nick said. The MPs then cuffed the abductor and took him away. Nick went to Judy and knelt down.

"Are you okay, Cotton?" Judy asked. Cotton then hugged Judy tight.

"Thank you! You saved me! Thank you!" She said.

"It's our job, little fluff. We're supposed to be on vacation from it," Nick said, "but all bets are off if it's a member of Carrots' family. Right?"

"That's right. We won't let anything bad happen to you." Judy said. Cotton looked at Nick and hugged him tight.

"You have soft fur." She said. Nick chuckled.

"You should see our Sergeant. His fur is so soft a fox kit fell asleep in his arms." Nick said.

"He's gonna call us workaholics because of this." Judy said. Nick then realized it.

"I'm gonna be doing paperwork for a week!" He said. Cotton then giggled and climbed up on Nick, going to his shoulders. One of the MPs then approached.

"You let us handle that. Thanks for the assist, Detective." They said.

"Glad I could help. Just… try and make sure my Sergeant doesn't have a coronary because of it." Nick said.

"No worries. He won't even have to sign a single document." The MP said. They then walked away and Judy smiled.

"Come on. Let's get back to the others." She said. Nick nodded and the two started walking with Cotton on Nick's shoulders. They all looked and cheered, the other young bunnies running to Nick and jumping on him. Nick gave a chuckle as they all held onto him as he walked.

"I didn't realize young bunnies were a fashion statement!" Nick said. Stu and Pop-Pop laughed and Judy giggled.

[Later that night….]

Nick sighed as he lied down on a bed. He started to close his eyes, but stopped as the door opened. Nick looked and saw Cotton, tears in her eyes while holding a stuffed toy.

"Mr. Nick? I had a nightmare." She said. Nick then sat up and Cotton went to him.

"I take it your parents are asleep already." Nick said.

"Uh-huh." Cotton said. Nick then helped Cotton up and sat her down.

"Alright. What was your nightmare?" Nick asked.

"It was about you and Aunt Judy. She… had made a decision to do something that severely upset you," Cotton explained, tears starting to flow, "and you… you left. She was so sad after you had left, too. She was crying!"

"Hey! Hey! It's okay, little fluff! It's okay! It was just a bad dream. Your aunt is an amazing mammal. Why would I leave her if I'm her partner?" Nick asked. Cotton sniffled.

"B-because she… she said she wanted an abortion." Cotton spoke. This sent Nick on alert.

"Hey now. You shouldn't be having nightmares like that." He spoke. Cotton looked at Nick.

"D-do you like my aunt, Mr. Nick?" She asked.

"What kind of question is that? I'm your aunt's partner! We confide in each other." Nick said.

"I mean… do you… 'like her' like her?" Cotton asked. That's when Nick caught on.

"I see. So that's what it is. You want to know if I have any romantic feelings towards your aunt." Nick said. Cotton sniffled and nodded.

"Do you?" She asked. Nick sighed before drying Cotton's tears.

"Listen here, little fluff. I'm about to tell you something important," Nick said, "but you HAVE to keep it a secret. Can you do that?"

"Mm-hmm!" Cotton said, nodding. Nick then gave a sigh and looked into Cotton's eyes.

"I care for your aunt very much. Not just as her partner," Nick said, "but as her friend. We've been working together for awhile now. Each case we work is a blast. However, I won't lie to you when I say that… I love your aunt very much. She's an amazing gal, and she'll make someone very happy. I don't know if it will be me, or someone else. Either way, I'll be there for her. No matter what."

"Really?" Cotton asked.

"Really. Now," Nick said, "it's pretty late, and it's past your bedtime. Go back to bed, little fluff."

"C-can I sleep with you for tonight?" Cotton asked. Nick was shocked, but smiled and gave a nod.

"Yeah," he said, "I don't mind it." Nick then lied down and Cotton lied down next to him. She got comfortable in his fur and yawned.

"Goodnight, Mr. Nick." She spoke. She soon fell asleep and Nick curled up around her, giving a soft smile.

"Sleep well, little fluff. I'll protect you from any more nightmares." He spoke. He then put his head down and fell asleep. From outside the room, Judy was against the wall, tears in her eyes as she was smiling.

'Nick,' she thought, 'you knew just what to say.' Judy then dried her tears and went to bed.

[Meanwhile….]

Ron, Kiara, and Wanda smiled as they had finished setting up the HQ for the Special Investigations Unit.

"We did a good job, guys. Damn good job!" Kiara said.

"Yeah. However," Ron said, "this is nothing compared to what we have planned for Judy and Nick when they come back. They're gonna be shocked."

"You sure it's gonna work?" Wanda asked.

"Yeah," Ron said, "it'll work. We just need to have faith."

"Well said." Kiara spoke.

"Now then," Ron said, "we just need our new vehicles and we'll be all set."

"Won't be getting those until next week." Wanda said.

"A shame really." Kiara said.

"Think of it this way. We have a whole week with our current vehicles before they're reassigned and we get brand new ones. Maintenance checks first thing in the morning." Ron said.

"You got it, boss." Kiara said.

"I say we call it a night." Ron said.

"By the way," Wanda said, "I got a call from the Arson Unit earlier. They caught the guy. Your former landlords had bought YOU one, too." Ron then smiled.

"Can't wait to see it." He said.

"Until then," Kiara said, "we should go over to the project site and help out."

"I second that." Wanda said. The three then left and Ron turned the lights out.

[Later that night….]

Judy was tossing and turning. She then jumped awake, panting. She looked at the time and saw it was seven past midnight. She gave a sigh before getting up. As she was leaving the room, she saw the door to where Nick was staying cracked open. She sighed and approached silently. She then looked in and saw Nick and Cotton still sleeping. She then got a resolve and quietly walked in, softly closing the door. She soon got in the bed, being careful not to wake the two up. That was when Nick pulled Judy closer to him, Cotton still sleeping. Judy then gave a light blush, but soon smiled and fell back asleep.

'He really is soft.' She thought. Cotton then moved in her sleep, going in front of Judy. Nick curled around them both in his sleep. No sooner did that happen, Bonnie had gently opened the door.

"Nick? Are you awake?" She whispered. She looked in and saw Nick curled around Judy and Cotton. She gave a smile and took a picture with her phone, the flash being off.

'They look cute together like that.' Bonnie thought. She then closed the door quietly as Stu approached.

"Does he know where Cotton is? Judy wasn't in her room." He whispered. Bonnie then showed the picture to him. Stu was shocked.

"She probably had a nightmare," Bonnie whispered, "and needed someone to talk to. Everyone else must have already been asleep."

"Cotton never did that before." Stu whispered.

"Maybe it's because he helped save her yesterday." Bonnie whispered. Stu smiled and looked at the time.

"We should get a head start on everything. Let those three sleep." He whispered. Bonnie nodded in agreement.

[A few hours later….]

Judy woke up and looked to see Cotton still sleeping in front of her. She then felt an arm wrap around her, looking to see Nick. She was about to question it, but remembered last night and smiled. Nick soon woke up and saw Judy.

"Carrots?" Nick asked. Judy looked at him, smiling.

"Had a nightmare about when we stopped Bellwether." Judy whispered. Nick was confused on why she was whispering, but looked in front of her and saw Cotton still sleeping. He gave a soft smile before stretching. He then looked at the time and his eyes practically bulged out of his head.

"Aw, crap! It's almost nine AM!" Nick said. That sent Judy on alert.

"What?!" She asked. She looked at the time and gasped.

'They never woke us up!' She thought. Cotton then started waking up as Stu knocked on the door.

"Nick? You awake?" He asked.

"Y-yeah! I'm awake!" Nick said. Stu then opened the door and Cotton opened her eyes to see her grandparents walking in with three plates.

"Huh?" Cotton asked.

"Oh," Nick said, "looks like little fluff is awake, too." Cotton looked at Nick, seeing Judy.

"Aunt Judy? When did you get here?" She asked.

"I had a nightmare about when we stopped an evil mammal. You saw about the Night Howlers on the news, right?" Judy asked.

"About Former Zootopia Mayor Bellwether?" Cotton asked.

"That's right. I had a nightmare about when Nick and I stopped her." Judy said.

"D-did he?" Cotton asked. Judy gave a sigh before nodding. Nick then got serious and turned Judy to face him.

"Huh?" Judy asked.

"I would NEVER do that to you. Even if you asked me." Nick said. Stu gave a smile and gave a nod.

"I can agree. Especially after what your mom got a picture of last night." He said. Judy looked confused, but Bonnie set the plates she was holding down and pulled out her phone to show the picture. Judy blushed intensely.

"Are you sure he's just your coworker?" Bonnie asked.

"Well… he's also a good friend." Judy said.

"Is he JUST a friend?" Stu asked.

"Okay! That looks delicious! Did you make that yourself, Mrs. Hopps?" Nick asked, changing the subject. Bonnie giggled a bit before looking at Nick.

"Just call me Bonnie." She said.

"Feel free to call me Stu, Nick." Stu spoke.

"Cotton," Nick said, "did you want to eat this with the rest of your siblings?"

"They already ate. You three had a rough time yesterday," Bonnie said, "so we let you sleep in. These were freshly made for you three." Cotton then looked at Judy and Nick.

"Can I eat with you, Aunt Judy and Mr. Nick?" She asked.

"If it's okay with them and your parents." Judy said. Stu smiled and gave a nod.

"They already said she could." He said. Bonnie then realized it.

"Wait! Nick just changed the subject!" She said.

"Because the type of conversation you're wanting to have should never be had on an empty stomach. Wouldn't you agree?" Nick asked. Bonnie went to object, but saw the logic and stopped.

"I suppose you're right." She said, sighing after. Cotton giggled before Judy smiled.

"We can talk more about it later, mom." Judy said. Bonnie then smiled and gave a nod. Stu and Bonnie then left as the three started eating.

[Moments later….]

Judy was playing around with the young bunnies as Nick was watching. Cotton then went to him, smiling. He looked at her and she motioned him closer. He knelt down and got closer to Cotton.

"Are you gonna tell her?" She whispered. Nick was shocked, but remembered their talk from last night.

"Not right away. It's not something you just say to someone." Nick whispered. Cotton then got an idea.

"We have a fair coming up tomorrow! You could tell her then!" Cotton whispered. Nick saw the logic and smiled.

"I like the way you think, little fluff." Nick whispered. Cotton then ran back to play with the others and Nick stood up. When he did, he felt a familiar presence and looked to see Ron with Wanda and Kiara.

'Huh? Are they calling us back from vacation?!' Nick thought. Ron then saw Nick and smiled.

"Hey, Carrots! We got company!" Nick said. Judy looked at saw Ron.

"Ron?! What are you doing here?! Nick and I are on vacation!" Judy said. Everyone looked and saw Ron, Wanda, and Kiara. Nick and Judy approached as Kiara giggled.

"We're not calling you back if that's your concern." She said.

"I was just here to drop these off." Ron said. He then held up two wallets and Nick took one, opening it to see a Detective's badge. Judy took hers and Ron smiled.

"You didn't have to drive out here to do it. It could have waited until we got back." Judy said.

"True," Ron said, "but this couldn't." A siren then chirped and Nick and Judy looked to see an unmarked Dodge Durango with its ELS on.

"Sweet cheese and crackers!" Judy said.

"That's our cruiser?!" Nick asked.

"They just came in. Figured we'd drop it off so you could drive it back after your vacation." Wanda said. Cotton then walked up to Ron, her eyes wide. Ron looked at her and smiled.

"Who's this little one, Judy? Your sister?" Ron asked. Judy giggled before picking Cotton up.

"This is my niece. Cotton," Judy said, "this is Ron. He's mine and Nick's Sergeant." Ron smiled.

"It's nice to meet you, Cotton." He said. Cotton then turned her head a bit.

"Aww," Nick said, "I never pegged her to be shy." Ron then sighed.

"She's not shy. It's because I'm a wolf." He said.

"I'm sure she didn't mean it in that way." Wanda said. Ron shook his head and looked at Nick.

"I'll see you two in two months. Kiara will drive the rental back." Ron spoke. He then walked away, but was stopped by a bunny grabbing his pants. He looked and saw one that wasn't even that old.

"Oh! Molly! Where have you been?!" Stu asked.

"I'm so sorry about her." Bonnie said, picking her up.

"It's okay. I was just leaving." Ron said. Molly then reached out to Ron, grabbing his shirt.

"Molly! Be nice!" Bonnie said, moving Molly's paw from Ron's shirt.

"Sorry about her, Mister…. Mister…. Apologies, but… who are you?" Stu asked.

"Sergeant Ron Nolan, ZPD Special Investigations Unit." Ron introduced.

"Ah! You're Judy's superior!" Bonnie said.

"I was just dropping off her new vehicle. I'll get out of your fur." Ron said. Molly then reached out to Ron again, fussing.

"Oh," Bonnie said, "I think it's time for Molly's nap." Ron then got to another unmarked vehicle, but felt something on his back.

"What the?" Ron asked. He looked and saw another bunny. Ron deadpanned and sighed.

'Just great.' Ron thought.

"Who does this one belong to?" Ron asked. Judy then ran over and took the bunny off of Ron.

"Sorry. My family can be rambunctious." Judy said.

"Yeah. I'll see you after your vacation." Ron said.

"Don't you want to stay a bit? See the town?" Judy asked.

"Maybe another time." Ron said. He got in the vehicle and cranked it up.

"But…." Judy spoke.

"I'll see you in two months." Ron said. He then drove away, sighing. However, he soon stopped and got out, pulling Molly off the top of his vehicle as Stu and Bonnie approached.

"How does this keep happening?" Stu asked.

"We're SO sorry, Sergeant. She's very sneaky." Bonnie said. They took Molly from him and Ron went to get in his vehicle, but stopped as he felt a tug on his pants. He looked down and saw Cotton.

"I…. I'm sorry for how I acted. I just… had a bad experience with a wolf." She said. This caused Ron to go on his instincts.

"What's his name?" Ron asked. Cotton was confused.

"Huh?" Cotton asked.

"The wolf who bullied and raped you." Ron said. Cotton gasped and Judy ran to them.

"Ron," she said, "you shouldn't assume stuff like that!" Cotton then teared up and hugged Ron.

"He said he would kill me if I said anything! Please help me!" She said. Judy was shocked.

"Tell me his name." Ron spoke, his voice soft but serious. Cotton sniffled tears starting to flow.

"His name is Al. He's in my class at school!" Cotton said. Ron then took note of the scent and glared, seeing a wolf cub with their parents. However, he glared further and bared his teeth.

"Get everyone inside, Hopps. Now!" Ron ordered. Judy caught on and nodded.

"Everyone inside! On the double!" Judy said. Nick, Kiara, and Wanda helped. The only one who stayed out was Cotton, who was clinging to Ron's waist. The wolf cub approached her, but Ron gave a low growl that caused him to stop. The cub saw Ron and looked confused,

"Aren't you a bit old to be dating a bunny as young as her?" They asked.

"Aren't you a bit young to be a rapist?" Ron countered, causing the cubs parents to approach.

"You watch your tone with our son!" The father said.

"What about me, huh? Am I not your son, too?" Ron asked. The father was confused, but the mother gasped and froze in place.

"R-Ron?" She asked.

"I never forgot. I've held onto that moment for YEARS! You weren't ready for a child," Ron said, "so you abandoned me in Downtown Zootopia and moved away! You think I've forgotten that?! THAT WAS THE WORST DAY OF MY LIFE!!!!"

"What's it to you? You weren't the best son either. You couldn't even get a mate properly!" The father said.

"I was only a child myself!" Ron said.

"You were a failure of a son," the father said, "and I should have killed you that day! Now I'm going to."

"I'll help, dad. No one gets in the way of my relationships." The cub said. Cotton gasped and hid behind Ron. However, Ron picked her up and put her inside his vehicle.

"No matter what happens," Ron said, "you don't leave this vehicle until you hear me tell you. Understand?" Cotton nodded.

"Please be careful. Y-you still need to go back to your family, right?" Cotton asked.

"I don't have one. All I have are my brothers and sisters in blue." Ron said. Cotton hugged him, sniffling.

"I'm sorry I dragged you into my problems!" She said.

"You did the right thing. Now," Ron said, "the moment I close the door, I want you to roll the window down a bit so you can have some air flow through, then lock the door until I say to unlock it." Cotton nodded and Ron closed the door. Cotton rolled the windows down three cracks so she could get some air then locked the doors to the car. As she went to sit down, she accidentally put a paw on one of the buttons and turned the ELS on in the vehicle. She gasped, but heard a louder one from outside.

"Y-y-y-you became a cop?!" The mother asked.

"That's right. In fact," Ron said, "I'm on duty right now. I was just dropping off a vehicle to two of my coworkers who are on a two month vacation. You uttered a threat to me, and I caught it on body cam. Get on your knees and place your paws on your head."

"Go to Hell." The father said. The cub and father then looked ready to charge, but Ron glared and bared his teeth.

"You first." Ron said, his voice filled with venom. Judy, Nick, Wanda, and Kiara then looked out the window as the father grinned.

"Protect your mother, Al. She doesn't need to be involved." He spoke.

"Glad everyone's in here." Stu said. Bonnie then gasped in realization.

"Where's Cotton?" She asked. Judy saw Cotton in Ron's vehicle.

"She's in my Sergeant's vehicle. She's safe." Judy said. Cotton got very scared and curled up into a ball, accidentally turning on the vehicle's radio and had it blasting through the PA system. Nick recognized the song and gasped.

"Bonnie," Nick said, "keep all the children away from the window."

"Huh?" Kiara asked. Wanda then recognized the song.

"That song that's playing right now. Isn't that song from that one game?" She asked. Judy then recognized it.

"You mean 'Dark Skies,' right?" Judy asked. The father then charged and threw a punch, but Ron caught it as the singing started and sent the father flying back with a punch of his own. The father charged again, but Ron was smart and stopped him with a kick before jumping, flipping over him and delivering a clothesline.

"Oh!" Nick said, wincing. The father growled and went for a punch, but Ron countered it gave a punch of his own to the father's face before grabbing him and kneeing him in the stomach. The father tried to flip him, but Ron lifted him up and slammed him on the ground as the song changed. Ron then jumped back as the father went for a kick to his crotch.

"Nice try, asshole." Ron spoke. The father then got up and glared.

"You know your street smarts." He spoke.

"Not like it will help." Ron said. The father then spit out some dirt and panted.

"You're not strong enough to beat me alone." The father said.

"I'm holding back so I don't kill you." Ron said.

'God knows I want to kill him.' Ron thought.

"Where's that predatory instinct? Huh?! Why don't you become what you were born to be?!" The father asked. A soft wind blew as Ron glared.

"You don't want me holding back?" Ron asked. The father then went on alert as he felt a dark presence.

'What is this feeling?' He thought. The wind then picked up as Ron glared further.

"I won't anymore." Ron said. Cotton stayed curled up, scared out of her mind. Ron's body cam then died, but Kiara and Wanda still had theirs recording. The father started to charge, but Ron was faster and he tackled him down, a loud crack being heard after the father landed on the ground.

"GEAAAHHHH!!!!" The father yelled. Al gasped and the mother forced Al into her.

"Don't look!" She said. The father then glared and got up, charging at Ron. He went for a punch, but Ron caught it and twisted the father's arm, another crack being heard. However, Ron then punched the father's jaw, sending teeth flying onto the ground. The father tried to kick him, but Ron countered it by sweeping the father's legs from under him and taking him to the ground. The father then flipped Ron and went for a punch, but Ron dodged and kneed the father in the face. Ron got to his feet and the father charged at him again. This time, Ron dodged and elbowed the father in the back. The father glared evilly and jumped up to claw Ron, but Ron caught him and slammed him to the ground on his face. The father got up, pulling out a knife, and charged. However, Ron dodged the attack, disarmed him, and hit him in the back of the neck with the knife.

"You little!" The father spoke, pulling out another knife. However, Ron sliced the hand that had it before using the knife he held to stab the father in the back of his leg, punching him in his head hard afterwards.

"Oh!" Nick said, jerking back.

"Dear God!" Kiara said. Judy then recognized the stance Ron was in and gasped.

'Is he feeling the after effects of the Night Howlers?' Judy thought. Nick then looked at Judy and realized it.

"He's not feeling after effects. This is his true strength." Nick said. The father panted and spit out blood before pulling the knife out. He grunted before looking at Ron, who didn't even have a scratch on him.

"Give up." Ron said. The father panted, his eyes narrowing.

"Never." He said. He then got up and went to claw Ron, but Ron stopped him and put him in the Kimura lock.

"Ah!" Judy said.

"The Kimura!" Nick said. The father then grabbed the knife from earlier, but Ron gave a swift motion and broke his arm. The father screamed and writhed in pain, trying to fight out. Judy then recognized the situation and had a flashback to the water treatment facility.

"He's gonna try and fight out of it." Judy said.

"How do you know that?" Wanda asked, looking at Judy.

"Just watch!" Judy said. Sure enough, the father growled and tried to fight his way out of it. However, Ron saw it coming and broke the hold before standing up, jumping back as the father went for a kick. The father then stood up, panting as he spit out blood again. This time holding his broken arm.

"It's over. Give up! You won't win against me!" Ron said. Thunder rumbled which caused Cotton to gasp.

'A storm?!' She thought. The sky got darker and it immediately started pouring rain. The mother gasped and held Al further into her, but he managed to turn around and saw his father a broken, bloodied mess.

"Dad!" He said. The father glared at Ron, his intent clear.

"You dare challenge the leader of the pack?" He asked.

"I'm not a part of your pack. I'm in a different one. A pack that protects ALL mammals, predator and prey. They're the ones who gave me this strength. To challenge me is to challenge them." Ron said. The father then pulled out a revolver, causing Al to gasp in shock.

"Dad, no! You said a real mammal fights using their fists!" He spoke.

"Who said I'm not?" The father asked.

"You have a gun!" Al said.

"So does he!" The father said.

"He never once drew it against you!" Al said. Lightning flashed as the father looked at Al, thunder rumbling soon after.

"Are you questioning me?" He asked.

"Drop the gun." Ron said.

"I asked you a question boy!" The father asked, now aiming at Al.

"Jay, no!" The mother said.

"SHUT UP!" The father yelled. He fired a shot, hitting the mother in the head.

"MOM!" Al yelled. The father then aimed at Al, but Ron acted fast and disarmed him, hitting him in the back of the head with the revolver. Ron then put the revolver on the vehicle and punched the father back as he had charged for it.

"You bastard! JUST DIE!!!!" The father yelled, charging at Ron. However, Ron kicked him in the stomach with an insane amount of force before grabbing him and planting him with a DDT that broke the father's neck as lightning cracked and thunder rumbled. Ron then panted and stood up, backing away before falling against the vehicle from exhaustion. Judy, Nick, Kiara, and Wanda then ran outside and towards them.

"Mom! Dad! Stay inside!" Judy said.

"Ron!" Nick said, going to him. The realization then hit Ron and he clenched his eyes, tears now flowing. Al looked at Ron, sensing his agony. He ran over and hugged him.

"It wasn't your fault! It was you or him!" Al said. Nick then realized it and looked at the father's body.

"Was that who I think?" Nick asked.

"He was my father," Ron sad, "and I killed him."

"It wasn't your fault!" Al said.

"He's right. We saw the whole thing. He tried to take your life. You had no choice." Nick said. Kiara, who had gone to the mother, then approached them.

"Female's dead. Shot killed her instantly." She spoke.

"She was my mother." Ron said. Kiara then knelt down, putting a paw on Ron's shoulder. Wanda then approached after having gone to the father, tears in her eyes. Judy then went to the driver's side door of Ron's vehicle and knocked on it.

"Cotton," she said, "it's Aunt Judy! Unlock the door!"

"No! Your Sergeant said not to until he told me!" Cotton said.

"It's okay, Cotton! Unlock the door for your aunt!" Ron said. Cotton then got up and unlocked the door, rolling the windows up first. Judy then turned the radio off, changing the settings from where it was connected to the PA system, and hugged Cotton.

"Thank goodness you're okay." She said.

"W-what about your Sergeant? Is he okay?" Cotton asked. Judy looked to Ron, who nodded from where he was sitting. Judy then picked Cotton up and took her to Ron. Cotton gasped as she saw the state he was in. She then looked and saw Al hugging him tight. She looked and saw the mother on the ground far from them before looking and seeing the father the same way.

"You have every right to be scared of me now." Ron said. Cotton then jumped down from Judy's arms and ran to Ron, hugging him.

"Thank God you're okay!" She said.

'What?' Ron thought. Al then looked at Cotton, tears flowing.

"I'm sorry for everything, Cotton! My father made me do those things to you! He said that's what a real wolf does," Al spoke, "but I know now that it's not! He made me do and say those awful things! I don't deserve your forgiveness for it! I don't even deserve to LIVE!"

"YOU SHUT YOUR MOUTH, RIGHT NOW!!!!" Nick yelled, lightning striking behind him. Al jumped in shock, looking at him. Ron looked at Nick in disbelief.

'Nick?' Ron thought.

"So what your father made you do those things! All you did was make mistakes! That's it! Your father threatened to hurt you if you didn't do those things, right?" Nick asked.

"Uh-huh." Al said, nodding.

"Then you're not at fault! Your father was! He made you do those things," Nick said, "meaning HE was responsible for them! You were just a tool he used!" Ron then realized it.

"Had I done things the way he wanted," he spoke, "I would have been the one to do those things to someone else."

"He made a critical error in abandoning you, Ron. It came back to hurt him." Nick said. Ron then shook his head, clenching his eyes.

"Guess the saying is true." Al said. Cotton looked at Al, confused.

"What saying?" She asked. Al then sniffled before looking at his father's corpse.

"Karma's a bitch." He said. Ron gave a soft sob, causing Al and Cotton to hug him. More sobs came from Ron, causing Nick and the others to hug him. Molly then got outside, Stu and Bonnie running after to catch her. However, lightning cracked and they jumped back in fear. Molly then jumped up and hugged Ron as tight as she could. Ron couldn't hold anything back anymore, screaming loudly as lightning struck the father's corpse, setting it on fire. Time slowed as tears flowed from Ron. Molly nuzzled his neck, hoping to cheer him up. A current then carried the mother's corpse to a grave that had been dug up by someone the MPs had arrested soon after. They had already left the scene, forgetting to fill the grave back up. Dirt had then fallen and revealed a gravestone that was unmarked. Ron was crying the entire time. The blood soaked into the ground as the fire turned the father's body to ashes. Molly then softly pet his head. Time resumed normally as Ron looked at her. Everyone else did the same. Molly smiled brightly, drying Ron's tears. She then started to try and speak. She then took a breath before looking into Ron's eyes.

"W-w-wolf… n-n-n-no… c-c-c-c-cry. N-n-not… w-w-w-w-wolf… f-f-f-f-f-fault. S-s-s-s-s-s-s-s-self-d-d-d-d-d-d-d-d-d-d-defense." Molly stuttered. Judy was shocked.

"D-did you guys hear that?!" She asked.

"I heard it," Kiara said, "but I don't believe it!" Nick looked at Bonnie and Stu.

"Molly just said her first words!" He said. Ron was shocked beyond belief.

"You're saying your first words to try and cheer me up?" Ron asked.

"D-d-did w-work?" Molly asked. Ron gave a chuckle, smiling.

"More than you know." He said. Molly then hugged him.

"W-wolf h-happy now!" Molly said. Cotton smiled and nodded.

"He is, Molly. He's very happy." She spoke.

[Hours later….]

Ron, Kiara, and Wanda all smiled as Cotton and Al stood with Bonnie and Stu.

"Thank you for teaching me a valuable lesson." Al said.

"You're welcome. Just keep that muzzle of yours clean. No more being a bully. Understand? Cotton has my number on speed dial now. One call to me is all it will take for you to get locked up." Ron said.

"Understood, sir." Al said.

"Are you sure you can't stay a bit longer? We have some extra rooms." Stu said.

"We appreciate the offer, Mr. Hopps," Kiara said, "but we have our duties in Zootopia to attend to."

"That," Wanda said, "and we have a little project going that we need to finish."

"What project?" Bonnie asked.

"It's a surprise for Judy," Ron whispered, "so we can't risk saying anything."

"Whisper it to me. Maybe I can help." Cotton said. Ron then knelt down and whispered it into Cotton's ear. Cotton's face lit up and she smiled.

"Now you see why it needs to stay a secret." Ron said.

"Don't worry. I have just the thing. Be right back!" Cotton said. Cotton then ran into the house before running back out with a decorative dish.

"That's a nice dish!" Kiara said.

"Where'd you get it?!" Stu asked.

"I made it in school! I was going to give it to Aunt Judy before she left," Cotton said, "but this idea is a LOT better. She'll think you spent a TON of money on it!" Wanda took the dish and smiled.

"This definitely helps. Thank you." She said. Cotton giggled and Ron smiled.

"I have something for you." He said.

"What is it?" Cotton asked.

"Close your eyes." Ron said. Cotton closed her eyes and Ron pulled out a small badge. He then placed it on Cotton's shirt and put a small hat on her head. Cotton then opened her eyes and gasped when she saw the badge. She then saw the hat on her head and looked at Ron.

"These are for me?" She asked.

"They are. For being brave in the face of danger." Ron said. Cotton then giggled before going to attention and saluting. Ron then stood up, going to attention, and returned the salute. They lowered their salutes and Cotton ran to her parents to show them. Al then looked at Ron and sniffled.

"W-will we ever see each other again?" He asked.

"I don't know. It's not my call." Ron said.

"I just met you," Al said, "and now you have to go."

"That's just how things work sometimes." Ron said.

"C-can I call you if I need someone to talk to?" Al asked.

"You kidding? Of course! Why wouldn't I want to answer a call from my little brother?" Ron asked. Al smiled and hugged Ron. Ron returned it and rubbed Al's back.

"Will you be at my school's family day?" He asked.

"You better believe it." Ron said. Al then broke the hug and Ron ruffled his head.

"Hey! Cut it out!" Al said, giggling soon after.

"You're my little brother," Ron said, "I gotta tease you." Judy then walked up with Nick and Cotton.

"I see you gave my niece a goal to work towards. She just told me she wanted to join ZPD when she gets older." Judy said.

"Didn't you have the same goal at her age?" Ron asked.

"That's different!" Judy said, blushing lightly.

"How?" Ron asked. Judy then tensed up and Nick laughed.

"Lay off, Ron. She's just embarrassed that Cotton's parents were going to read her the riot act for influencing their daughter." Nick said.

"Parents will always worry. Just look at Judy's. Her dad's been holding on to a can of mace since I got here." Ron said.

"That's ridiculous!" Judy said.

"Front left pocket of his overalls." Ron said. Stu tensed up and Bonnie reached in, pulling out the can of mace.

"Stu!" She scolded.

"I can't help it!" Stu spoke, defending himself. Nick then chuckled.

"Point taken." Nick said. Cotton then hugged Ron, smiling.

"Try and visit sometime, okay? I want to be able to tell everyone at school about your skills!" Cotton said.

"I'll try," Ron said, "but I can't make any promises. Though, I will be at your school's family day." Ron then hugged her back and the two separated soon after. Ron then stood up and went to his vehicle, but stopped and smiled as he felt something on his back. Ron then removed Molly from his back, causing her to giggle.

"Wolf found me!" She said.

"That I did," Ron said, "but I don't have time to play. I need to get back to work."

"Wolf visit?" Molly asked. Ron smiled chuckled before passing her to Bonne, booping her nose after she was in Bonnie's arms.

"Why shouldn't I?" Ron asked, grinning. He then got in his vehicle and another bunny approached.

"Can you show us your lights?! We couldn't see them earlier!" They asked, excited. The other young bunnies agreed. However, Ron knew he couldn't. He was about to tell them, but…

"This is 7-Adam-09! We have a 10-33! Officers need assistance at City Hall! Requesting backup!" Someone said. This sent Ron, Kiara, and Wanda on alert.

"I'll get the rental back! You two go!" Kiara said.

"SIU Sergeant to Central," Ron said, speaking into the radio, "show us responding code three high!" Ron then turned the vehicle on, turning the ELS on and the young bunnies were amazed.

"COOL!" Cotton said. Ron then chirped the siren before putting on some sunglasses and sped off, the siren wailing at full. Wanda soon followed suit. Kiara followed behind in the rental vehicle.

"Your coworkers are pretty amazing, Judy." Stu said.

"Yeah," Judy said, "they are."

"Enough of that," Nick said, "who's hungry?!" The young bunnies all jumped up and Bonnie giggled.

"I'll get started on cooking then." She said.

"Before that," Judy said, "I… I need to say something." Judy then looked at Nick and got a resolve.

'Carrots?' Nick thought.

"Nick," Judy said, "what I am about to say is the 100% truth." Cotton then caught on and looked at Nick.

'Is she about to do what I think?' She thought.

"Nick," Judy said, "you were introduced to them as my partner in ZPD. However, what I feel for you is more. A lot more."

"You're gonna tell me you see me as a friend, right?" Nick asked.

"What I feel is even more than that." Judy said. Nick was stunned.

'Is she confessing to me?' Nick thought.

"Nick," Judy said, taking his paws in hers, "other than my family, you are the most important thing to me. From the time we met during the Night Howlers Investigation, I felt as if you would become more than a friend to me. When you were in the hospital after Grigori was killed, I…. I felt like I was a freak for feeling the way I did. However, Ron told me that you had felt the same way as I do about you."

'Dear God. She was going to kill herself because of how she felt about me?!' Nick thought. Judy teared up, taking a breath.

"I don't know if it's really true," Judy said, "but…. I have to say it to put my mind at ease. So I can properly sleep at night!"

"Judy," Stu said, "are you saying what I think you are?"

"I am, dad." Judy said.

'Sweet cheese and crackers!' Bonnie thought.

"Judy?" Nick asked.

"Nick," Judy said, "I…. I love you. I really, truly, no doubt in my mind, love you!" Nick then pulled Judy close, hugging her.

"I'm sorry for worrying you like that. Even if it was just an overextended muscle." Nick said. He then knelt down and looked into her eyes.

"Why does this feel like déjà vu?" Judy asked. Nick chuckled, smiling.

"Maybe because you didn't really believe it until now." Nick said. Judy then had the realization.

"Does this mean what I think?" Judy asked.

"It does, Judy. I really, truly, no doubt in my mind,… love you, too." Nick said. Cotton squealed in delight. Judy looked at her in shock.

"You knew?!" She asked.

"He told me last night after I talked about a nightmare I had! He was going to say it at the fair tomorrow," Cotton said, "but this is even better! Now, instead of him confessing to you, he can take you to the fair for your first date!" Stu smiled and gave a slight chuckle.

"Pretty soon she's gonna start calling him 'Uncle' Nick." Stu said. Judy blushed deeply.

"Dad!" She spoke. Bonnie giggled.

"Just be sure to protect yourselves. I don't want to be a grandma to any kits of Judy's too soon." She said.

"MOM!" Judy squealed.

"Oh, they're just teasing and embarrassing you. It's what parents do." Nick said. Judy then looked at Nick before pouting slightly.

"Sorry about them." Judy spoke.

"No need to apologize. We came here for a vacation from work. We just discovered more feelings along the way." Nick said.

"Here I thought I was the wise one." Pop-Pop said, making himself known.

"If you're going to give the speech," Nick said, "I'll say this now. I would NEVER hurt your granddaughter intentionally. Even if I did, she can defend herself. After all, she's one tough bunny. Probably gets it from her father. I know she gets her charm and looks from her mother, too. However, she got all her wisdom from you, wise rabbit. I just picked up a bit of that wisdom by working with her. Before I joined ZPD, I was just a fox looking to make a quick buck. However, she came along and asked me for help after I hustled her. She had hustled me in return by getting me on tape confessing to something I never thought possible."

"What? Hurting her feelings?" Pop-Pop asked.

"Felony tax evasion." Nick said. Pop-Pop's eyes then went wide. Judy chuckled.

"That's the same look you had!" She said.

"I know it!" Nick said.

"That happened during your rookie year, didn't it, Aunt Judy?" Cotton asked.

"That it did, little fluff." Nick said.

"So," Pop-Pop spoke, "if she hadn't done that…."

"I never would have joined ZPD in the first place. She gave me a reason to change for the better," Nick said, "and she changed ME for the better in turn."

"Aw, Nick! You're making me blush!" Judy said. Nick smiled and held Judy close.

"Oh, for crying out loud," Pop-Pop said, "stop beating around the bush! Kiss already!" Judy giggled before looking into Nick's eyes.

"Have to do what he says." Judy said.

"Even if it's in front of your whole family?" Nick asked.

"Don't make it anymore awkward!" Judy whined. Cotton giggled a bit.

"Come on now. You know you love me." Nick said. Judy then leaned closer to him.

"Do I know that? …. Yes. Yes, I do." Judy said.

"And I love you, too." Nick said. The two then kissed and everyone cheered. They broke the kiss and hugged.

"This is what you meant by taking it slow, isn't it?" Judy whispered.

"Yeah," Nick whispered, "it is. I almost thought you forgot." Judy smiled brightly.

"I could never forget." She whispered.

[Two months later….]

Nick had packed everything into the Durango and closed the back.

"Wish you could stay for longer than two months," Stu said, "but we know you have a huge responsibility back in Zootopia."

"Being a Detective in the SIU." Bonnie said.

"Most would call her an Inspector." Cotton said, now having the proper knowledge thanks to Nick and Judy.

"Promise you'll be safe?" Stu asked.

"Always, dad." Judy said.

"Besides," Nick said, hugging Judy from behind, "she also has me and our other coworkers looking out for her." Stu smiled at that. However, Judy deadpanned not soon after.

"Paw off the mace, dad." Judy said. Stu tensed up and looked at his paw.

"Dang it!" He said. Bonnie giggled and Cotton walked up to Judy.

"You'll be there for family day at school, right?" She asked.

"You know it, Cotton. Why wouldn't I go see my favorite niece on such an important day for her?" Judy said.

"I'll be there, too." Nick said. Cotton smiled and hugged them both.

"Drive safe." She said.

"I always do." Judy said. Her and Nick then hugged Cotton back. The three then broke the hug and Nick smiled, giving a playful salute to Judy's family before going to the passenger side of the Durango and getting in. Judy got in on the driver's side and went to close the door, but stopped and smiled before grabbing Molly from Nick's back.

"Wha?! How did you get there?!" Nick asked. Molly giggled and Judy passed her off to Cotton, who took her and held her. Judy then closed the door and turned the vehicle on.

"Bye, Judy! Bye, Nick!" Molly said, waving. The two waved back before Judy drove off, headed back to Zootopia.

"You know," Nick said, "this vacation really WAS relaxing."

"Yeah," Judy said, "it was. Too bad we're gonna have to work overtime to make up for it."

"Come on now, Jude. Don't be so negative." Nick said. The moment they got into the Zootopia City Limits, Judy headed straight for Nick's place. However, whenever she got there, she saw Ron and rolled the window down.

"Everything okay?" Judy asked.

"Health department had to condemn the place. They found black mold." Ron said.

"Black mold?!" Nick asked.

"Where will we stay now?!" Judy asked. Ron then grinned.

"Follow me." He said. He then got in his vehicle and drove off. Judy followed behind, her mind wary.

"I don't like the looks of this." Nick said.

"Why not?" Judy asked.

"What if it's a trap?" Nick asked.

"A trap? For what?" Judy asked.

"I don't know! I just have a bad feeling!" Nick said. Judy then recognized the area they were in and gasped in shock.

"No way!" She said.

"What? What is it?" Nick asked. He then looked and gasped. Ron then parked next to Kiara and Wanda's vehicle before getting out. Judy stopped in front and parked. Standing where her old apartment building stood… was a two-story house! She got out and approached.

"What the? W-when did THIS happen?!" Judy asked.

"It started the day you left for vacation," Ron said, "which you two got paid for." Nick then approached and was shocked.

"It took you two months to make this?!" He asked.

"Actually," Kiara said, making herself and Wanda known, "we had finished it last month. It just took a month for all the furnishings to get here."

"You gotta be joking-kidding me!" Nick said. Judy then teared up.

"Is… is this my home?" She asked. Ron smiled and held out the keys.

"No mortgage payments necessary. Plus," Ron said, "it's big enough for both you AND Nick. We already moved everything of Nick's that wasn't condemned inside."

"Are you saying what I think?!" Nick asked. Ron then tossed the keys to Judy, who caught them and looked at them.

"Go check out your new home. Both of you." Ron said. Judy and Nick looked at each other before going to the door. Judy unlocked it and opened the door, shocked to see everything.

"Oh, my God!" She squealed, tears flowing. Nick was dumbfounded.

"This is amazing! I…. I've only dreamed of this!" He said. Judy looked at the table next to the door and gasped when she saw the decorative dish.

"Sweet cheese and crackers!" She said. Nick saw the dish and his jaw dropped.

"How much did you spend on this?!" He asked.

"This is worth… at least millions!" Judy said.

"Did this get donated?! Is this a joke?!" Nick asked.

"Check the rest of the house." Ron said. Nick and Judy looked at each other and did just that. Soon after they started, Stu and Bonnie pulled up with Cotton and Molly. As Nick and Judy went to look at the upstairs, Stu and the others got out of sight. Once Nick and Judy were finished, they went outside to see Stu and the others.

"Dad?! Mom?!" Judy asked.

"Don't forget us!" Cotton said, holding Molly.

"Did you know about this?!" Judy asked.

"Cotton did. We learned about it after Ron gave her permission to tell us." Stu said.

"You deserve it, sweetie." Bonnie said. Cotton giggled before approaching.

"So," Cotton said, "do you like everything?"

"Of course! This is WAY better than my old place!" Nick said.

"It's amazing!" Judy said.

"What's your favorite part?" Cotton asked.

"I can't choose! Everything is incredible! Especially that dish near the door!" Nick said.

"That HAS to be the most expensive thing in that home!" Judy said. Cotton giggled before Ron gave a smile.

"What if I told you Cotton made that dish on her own?" He asked. Nick was shocked and Judy looked at Cotton.

"Y-you made that?" She asked.

"Now you have a piece of home so you don't get homesick." Cotton spoke. Judy chuckled before hugging Cotton.

"Thank you." She said. Cotton hugged back, smiling brightly.

"Was SIU called for anything while we were on vacation?" Nick asked.

"Not really. Though," Wanda said, "we did go on a few calls as backup. Other than that, we were working on this place and one other a few blocks from here."

"Wait," Nick said, "you mean?!"

"They got me a home, too. Just waiting on the last piece of furniture." Ron said. Molly then got on Ron's shoulder, causing him to smile.

"Wolf happy!" She said. Ron giggled.

"Right you are, little one." He spoke, touching her nose. Molly giggled before Bonnie jumped up and grabbed her from off Ron's shoulder.

"I think we should head back." Stu said.

"I agree. We don't want to stay in the city long. Congratulations on your new place!" Bonnie said. Cotton then got an idea.

"Grandma? Grandpa? Do you think I could spend the weekend with Aunt Judy?" She asked.

"Will we have to take you?" Stu asked.

"No! My class is going on a field trip to different ZPD Precincts! The last one is the new SIU Headquarters!" She said.

"I can confirm that. Chief Bogo and Commissioner Reagan believe that it's a good way for young children to see where the majority of police work is done." Ron said.

"I see. We can ask your parents if you can when we get back. If it's okay with them," Bonnie said, "it's okay with us."

"Just don't wear what Ron gave you to school." Stu said. Ron then smiled.

"There's a reason why the SIU Headquarters will be the last stop on the field trip." Ron said. Cotton caught on quickly and looked at Ron.

"We'll have you guys as chaperones and escorts?!" She asked.

"That way you'll be able to show off your Aunt Judy." Ron said.

"Plus," Kiara said, "you'll get full tours of ALL the precincts."

"Even the jail?" Cotton asked, nervous.

"Only the places away from the prisoners." Ron said.

"Unless you misbehave on the trip. Then you'll be with the students who have to stay until the next morning. That's when they give a jail tour because of the 'Scared Straight' Program." Wanda said.

"You won't have to worry about ME misbehaving. Al, on the other paw…." Cotton spoke, trailing off.

"I don't think he will. He's been put with a good family." Ron said. Stu nodded in confirmation.

"He's helped them with things around their farm, too. Even helped us as a way of apologizing for what he did to Cotton. He knows his father was at fault," Stu spoke, "but he still wanted to apologize in some way. Shoot, he even said we could beat him with farm tools if we wanted! Even went as far as to tell Cotton she could still press charges on him. However, she said it wouldn't be necessary because he witnessed his mother getting shot by his father, then his father getting killed after."

"Though," Cotton said, "he said that AFTER another thing."

"Huh?" Nick asked.

"Cotton," Bonnie said, "you don't have to tell them THAT."

"Tell us what?" Judy asked.

"Even I'm curious. What all did he say?" Ron asked. Cotton took a breath to calm herself before looking at Ron.

"He said that I could have done what he did to me back to him, but in a more direct way." She spoke. Both Stu and Bonnie blushed when they heard it.

"Even without using the actual sentence it's embarrassing to hear." Stu said.

"Of course it is. They're just children, after all." Ron said.

"How are you NOT embarrassed?" Bonnie asked.

"Because I've heard that type of stuff ever since I was a cub." Ron said.

"Huh?" Stu asked.

"His adoptive parents are a Lieutenant and Captain." Judy said.

"One works in Special Victims," Ron said, "the other works in SWAT."

"Is it the mother who works in Special Victims?" Bonnie asked.

"Nope." Ron said. This caused Stu to looked shocked.

"The father?!" Stu asked.

"I was exposed to it since I was young." Ron said.

"Explains how he knew in the first place." Cotton said. Ron motioned to Cotton with an open paw.

"Let's stop talking about that now." Bonnie said. Nick chuckled before going into full on laughter. Everyone soon joined in.

[Later that night….]

Nick was relaxing as Judy walked into the room. She then got into bed with him, lying down next to him and holding him close. Nick smiled and put an arm around her.

"Does it still feel weird even though we've slept in the same bed for two months while on vacation?" Nick asked.

"Not really. Though," Judy said, "you might want to check the nightstand drawer for 'protection,' if you catch my drift. Just in case we wake up in a certain mood." Nick grinned and held her closer.

"You should have more faith in me than that, Carrots." Nick said.

"Huh?" Judy asked.

"If you say you aren't ready," Nick said, "we don't go that far. Agreed?"

"What do you mean?" Judy asked.

"You don't want to start a family too early, right?" Nick asked.

"I…. I haven't thought about that. Why do you ask?" Judy asked.

"Because you're worried of going into heat while we're living together." Nick stated. Judy went to speak, but stopped and looked ashamed.

"I just don't want anything bad to happen." She said.

"Nothing bad WILL happen. Okay? You've had to experience all this on your own, right?" Nick asked.

"Yeah." Judy said.

"Well," Nick said, "you're not alone this time. You have me here to help." Judy looked at Nick, who looked back at her.

"What did I ever do to deserve you?" Judy asked, smiling.

"I could ask you the same thing, fluff." Nick said. Judy smiled and kissed Nick on the cheek.

"You're so sweet." She said. Nick smiled before putting a paw on her face.

"That would be you, Jude. You're much sweeter than I am." Nick said. Judy giggled before looking into Nick's eyes.

"I love you, Nick." She said.

"I love you, too, Judy." Nick said. The two then shared a brief kiss before turning the lights off and drifting off to sleep.

[Meanwhile….]

Ron was sitting at a desk at ZPD Headquarters, looking over some reports. That was when he saw two shadows behind him and sighed.

"This is the 63rd day in a row. I'm fine, Mom. You didn't have to drag Dad with you this time." Ron said.

"Told you he was keeping count." A voice said. Ron turned, the chair swiveling, and saw his adoptive parents.

"I just want to make sure you're okay, sweetie." His mom said.

"I'm fine." Ron said.

"Are you sure?" His mom asked.

"For Christ's sake! He met his biological parents," his dad said, "saw his birth mother die from his birth father, then had no choice but to KILL his birth father! Most would have quit the job after that, but he never did! He even spoke to the department shrink about it! He's fine, hon."

"A mother worries! He hasn't spoken to us at all lately!" His mom said.

"Probably because I've had my own things to worry about. Like the fact I'm now in charge of the SIU." Ron said.

"Your siblings want to see you, Ron. They miss you." His mother said.

"They don't see me as an ACTUAL sibling. They always looked at me weird." Ron said.

"If it's because you're a wolf," his mother said, "it doesn't matter! You're their big brother!"

"Okay! Why are you bringing them up?! What's going on?!" Ron asked. His mother went to speak, but Ron soon saw a cheetah run up to him in tears, a lion following, and the two hugged him.

"We're so sorry, Ron! We never meant to make you feel like that!" The cheetah said. Ron looked at them before looking at his parents.

"Did you tell them?" Ron asked.

"We never said anything. They thought you were leaving Zootopia for good when you were dropping off the vehicle for Hopps and Wilde." His dad said.

"Please forgive us!" The lion spoke.

"Please!" The cheetah pleaded. Ron gave a sigh and hugged them back.

"How could I ever leave knowing this city isn't safe? Sounds kinda stupid, right?" Ron asked.

"Yeah." The cheetah said.

"C-can we visit you sometime?" The lion asked.

"Sure. I can even introduce you to my team." Ron said.

"Does this weekend sound okay?" The cheetah asked. Ron smiled and nodded.

"Sounds perfect." He said. The two hugged him again and he returned it.

"Come on, you two. He needs to finish his work so he can go home." His dad said. The two broke the hug and Ron smiled.

"I can try to make time to visit," Ron spoke, "but you know it's not a guarantee."

"We understand." The lion said. Ron's family then left as Ron got back to work. The moment he heard the doors close, Ron looked to his right.

"Did you enjoy that, Chief?" He asked. Bogo then walked out.

"How'd you know?" He asked.

"I could smell you," Ron said, "and I know you have more work than I do." Bogo chuckled before patting Ron on the back.

"Have you ever thought of starting a pack of your own?" Bogo asked.

"Why bring this up?" Ron asked.

"Because I saw the look in your eyes as they left. You want children." Bogo said.

"You don't? I was just thinking of the future." Ron said.

"Ever think of dating sites?" Bogo asked.

"Serial killer's hunting ground." Ron said.

"Speed dating?" Bogo asked.

"Do I look desperate?" Ron asked.

"Ad in the paper?" Bogo asked.

"You think I can afford that?" Ron asked. Bogo went to speak, but stopped after realizing it.

"Point taken." He said.

"I get you're trying to help," Ron said, "but this job has more risk than reward. It's a MAJOR turn off."

"Duly noted." Bogo said. Ron then sighed.

"Anyways," Ron spoke, "I guess I could try dating, but I can't make a guarantee."

"Not asking for one. Just give it your best shot." Bogo said.

"Why are you so concerned with my love life? What about your own?" Ron asked.

"Uh," Bogo stammered, blushing, "I… w-well… m-maybe I found someone, and they have a friend who's single, too." Ron then caught on.

"You set me up on a blind date?" He asked.

"It wasn't my intention! The girl is REALLY interested in me. She even knows about my job!" Bogo said.

"So she brought up the fact she had a single friend… why?" Ron asked.

"W-well," Bogo said, "she had heard about you. It's another wolf, a-and her previous relationship was rather… toxic. Put simply, her ex beat her."

"She's moving on quick." Ron said.

"That's just the thing! She wants to get back with her ex!" Bogo said.

"Does he have something on her?" Ron asked.

"That's why she wanted to double date. The friend didn't care who it was," Bogo said, "but… the girl who's interested in me DOES care. She wants to see if you can help her friend realize that he's not good for her."

"Maybe it's not that. Maybe he's stalking her." Ron spoke.

"If he shows up during the date," Bogo said, "it could end in disaster."

"You just let SIU handle that. We'll be ready for him." Ron said.

"Wait, what?" Bogo asked.

"What he's doing is considered harassment. If SIU stops him," Ron said, "he won't be bothering her ever again. That's what your date is wanting if she knows about your job, and SPECIFICALLY said that it had to be me."

"That's… a well thought out plan. The date is set for three days from now." Bogo said.

"We'll be ready." Ron said. Bogo nodded and Ron finished the last of the paperwork.

"I'll handle filing that for you. Get out and go home. You'll need the rest." Bogo said.

"So will my team." Ron said. Bogo smiled and nodded.

"That they will. They just finished the SIU HQ, by the way. They appreciated what you, Pride, and Alvarez had done. They just… gave it a more professional feel." Bogo spoke. Ron got up and grinned.

"Can't wait to see it." Ron said. He then walked out, smiling bright. For tomorrow, the real test of the SIU begins.