Here is the 47th installment. Hope you enjoy.

Notes now live at the end of the chapter, so here is the obligatory, on with the show.

Sadly, I do not own and thus can claim no rights to Zootopia or its characters. They belong to Disney.

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Wednesday Night

After leaving the precinct, they arrived at the Wolford estates about thirty minutes later. Mike pulled into his spot, while Nick turned past and headed towards the guest lot, only to be stopped by Mike waving him down. Backing up, Nick rolled down the window. "What's up?"

Mike chuckled. "You two are family now, like it or not, and more to the point, you are fully acknowledged as our firsts, so you get the empty spot next to mine. Eventually you and Judy will both have your own spots. Especially since Ed and Elli have chosen you two as well, if they were to end up having to take on the role Lizz and I have."

Smiling, Nick nodded. "Cool."

Parking next to Mike and Lizz, Judy and Nick follow them inside and to the family kitchen to score a snack, where they found Mike's brother Frank. Mike smiled at his brother. "Hey, Frank. Thank you for helping last night. Lizz and I are eternally grateful."

Frank smiled upon seeing his brother and the others. "Was my pleasure. I have to say, Nick and Judy really pulled together something I would not have thought possible." Seeing the rabbit and Fox. "And there they are. I'll say again, what you pulled off last night was truly the equivalent of moving a mountain with a mouse sized car."

Judy blushed, and smiled up at Frank. "We just did what we needed to for our friends. They needed to get married to help arm and protect them. That didn't mean that we couldn't also make it something special."

Frank chuckled. "It is already in the society pages online, along with photos from that photographer and a few cell phones. You guys are the talk of the town, both of you, as couples."

Nick sighed and shrugged. "Was inevitable. Being their Firsts, and needing to protect them and their claims, required that we suck up being just as much in the spotlight as they are. The city is going to learn a lot about wolves and the inner workings of the pack at the highest levels. We will also have an article in ZNN print, online, and there were the video interviews that a lot of mammals gave last night after the ceremony. Although we still get sign off on them. The reporter is supposed to give us a call once they are ready for review. Then there is the advertising the Otterton's, Gideon, the photographer, Fin and Therus, etc... are going to do. We're going to be hot items for a few weeks."

"A pair of inter-species couples, friends, and at the highest levels of Wolford pack structure. Yeah..." Frank laughed. "You four are going to have a hard time being cops for a while."

Judy groaned. "Sadly, we're kind of used to it. Every time we take down another political figure, or some other high profile case that gets reported in the news. We're going to be stuck doing community outreach work for at least a month. I think I'd prefer parking duty."

Lizz looked down at the bunny nervously. "It isn't that bad, is it?"

Nick chuckled darkly. "Oh, it is far worse, but it is what we will all have to endure for a bit. It'll be worth it in the long run. At least Mike and I will have to put up with it, since you two are on maternity leave. That said, I need to make a call. Judy, can you make sure they save me some food."

Judy nodded and then looked up at Mike, her eyes going hard. "Pregnant females, hungry. Feed us now, or become our food source." Glancing over at Frank. "That means you too."

Frank took a step back. "Good gods. Mike was right, you're one scary rabbit. A snack coming right up." Turning around, Frank opened the fridge and started pulling out sliced meats and some veggies. A few minutes later a platter of sliced meats, and sandwich fixings are laid out on the bar as Nick walks back up trailing Arron and Victoria.

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Nick's phone call.

Hitting the speed dial for his mother, Nick waits only a moment for her to answer as he steps back into the hallway. "Hi Nicky. What's up?"

Smiling, Nick shakes his head. "I'm never, not, going to be that to you, am I?"

Vivian's laughter floated out of Nick's phone. "Nope. You'll always be my little Nicky. Now, why are you calling me?"

"I hate to ask this of you mom, after all you have done to make the wedding happen. I am going to pay you for this, and I expect you to actually charge me a proper price. I need to ask that you make up some clothes for Lizz and Mike out of either the old armor cloth, or the new stuff. Depending on how much you have of what."

Concern filling Vivian's voice. "Are they in danger?"

"More so now than before. Nothing concrete, but as the news, photos, video, interviews and such from the wedding start to filter out, I'm just worried that they will be targeted and want to be prepared."

"Okay. So, in an abundance of caution then? I can do that, I have their measurements from the wedding. I'll have some sets ready for them late tomorrow. Will that be okay?"

Nick nodded with a smile. "That should be just fine mom. Just text me when they're ready. Mike and I will swing by on a break."

"Sounds good dear. Now don't you forget to call me when Judy goes into labor. I want to be there to hold my grand Kits, and will have to pick up Stu and Bonnie too."

"You'll be one of my first five calls. Love you mom."

"Love you too."

The call ended and Nick looked down at his phone with a smile. Looking up he sees Victoria looking at him in concern. Nick just smiles up warmly. "Victoria."

"What are you having armor made for my pups for?"

Giving his patented smirk. "Just being cautious. Besides, it looks like clothing. What Judy and I are both wearing is made of the material. It isn't like full body armor, but I'll take a broken rib over an actual hole in me. All our clothes are made of the armor material."

"Really?"

Nick nodded. "It was necessitated after Bellwether, along with a few other cases. Judy and I were and are targets. It has tapered off these last few months. We've been accosted only once or twice a month, rather than once a week, but there was one week straight we never made it home and slept at the precinct. We were targeted by mammals who were her sycophants and decided that taking us out would somehow prove her innocent. I was also hoping to talk to you about making sure my mom gets properly compensated. We'll have both Lizz and Mike's uniforms made from the material as well."

Arron walked up. "Have their uniforms made of what material?"

Victoria turned to her mate. "Nick is arranging for Lizz and Mike to have their clothes and uniforms made of an armor cloth material. Apparently both he and Judy's clothes are already made of the stuff."

"I guess you are hoping not, but are planning for the worst as the news of their wedding spreads?"

Nick smiled up at Arron. "Pretty much. Better to be prepared and not need it, instead of need it, and end up in the hospital or morgue, instead of just outpatient for a broken rib."

Arron nodded. "Seems reasonable. I think we can see our way to helping pay for it then. Vic?"

"I agree. I was planning on checking out your mothers shop tomorrow anyway. So I'll make sure we talk about it then."

"Nick nodded with another smirk. "Great. We were just here to get a snack. Just waiting on a text from the mammal that wants us to meet. So don't either of you eat too much. You're both coming with us to dinner."

Victoria looked down at Nick. "Are we now?" Her eyebrow rising.

"Yep. One hundred percent!" Nick motioned for them to follow him. "I promise you, you will not regret it."

Victoria's look shifted to one of skepticism. "We shall see, Nick. Though your performance last night makes me willing to give you the rope to hang yourself with."

Chuckling, Nick led them into the kitchen as the sandwich fixings were laid out. Seeing the meats and fixings out, he smiled. "Hey, remember, we have dinner plans, so don't eat too much." As if summoned, his phone buzzed. Taking it out he grinned. "Okay, dinner is at seven tonight, so just a light snack to hold us over."

Lizz grinned up from the sandwich she was building with Judy. "We'll be fine. Who all is going to be there?"

Snagging a plate and two slices of bread, Nick grinned. "Should be Carlos and Bobby, Maria and Jarvis. Judy, should we shoot Carry and Bill a message?"

Judy shrugged as she took a bite of her section of the sandwich she was sharing with Lizz. Swallowing. "Sure. Can't hurt."

Finishing up with his sandwich, some thin sliced chicken and a spicy sauce, Nick pulled out his phone and shot off a message. Getting a quick response, he smiled. "Looks like they'll be there as well. Had already planned on being there, just not that late." Biting into his sandwich.

Victoria gave them all a half lidded glare. "So... Where is dinner going to be?"

Lizz looked to Mike with a grin. "You tell her pup. I'm eating."

Mike gave Lizz an eye-roll then looked to his mother. "Mom. Just be ready to head to dinner. What you are wearing now is fine, but if you want to dress up more you can do that too. All of us are going as you see us. This is our treat to you, and I promise you will not regret coming with us."

"Fine. When is dinner again?"

Nick piped up. "We need to be there by about seven. A few minutes early wouldn't be a bad idea. This dinner is going to have several surprises for you." Pulling Judy to his side. "It is also going to act as our collective thank you for your support."

After a few sandwiches are eaten, they retire as a group to a living room that Lizz, Nick, and Judy, had not seen yet. Enjoying a few group games, Arron challenged Nick to a game of pool while ignoring Mike's attempts to warn his father. The results exactly what Mike was expecting after seeing what Nick could do at poker night. After three games, Arron gave up.

"I don't get it! I... Vic, have you seen the shots he's made? It's not possible!"

Nick chuckled. "It's just physics, Arron."

Victoria laughed. "Mike tried to warn you."

Judy piped in. "No one will let him play, even professionally. Nick has a reputation. He is teaching me, but I don't know if I will ever be at his level. Anyway, it's time we head out for dinner. It is five forty five, and it'll take us about thirty to get there."

Victoria smiled. "So, where are we eating?" She had tried several times to pry where they were going out of Lizz, Judy, Mike, or Nick, without success.

Lizz smiled. "A surprise, mom. A good surprise."

Victoria pouted playfully. "Fine, but I better like this surprise, or there will be consequences."

Lizz laughed, thoroughly enjoying the interactions she had had with her mother-in-law up to that point. "That I am not worried about it should tell you everything."

Crossing her arms as they made their way to the cars. "We shall see."

Arron and Victoria rode with Mike and Lizz, following Nick and Judy.

Victoria looked at Lizz next to her, Arron sitting upfront with Mike. "So, you are truly not going to spill where we are going?"

Lizz shook her head. "Nope. You will know soon enough, and where is just the first surprise. I'm not sure if we talked about it at dinner or not, things kinda got overshadowed by the wedding. There is at least one other surprise waiting for you once we get inside. At least there should be. I will need to shave a fox if the other surprise isn't there."

Victoria laughed. "Oh, now that's something I would love to see at..."

Mike laughed. "Nice try mom, but you might as well just wait, even though I know it is killing you. We will be there in just a few minutes, and it is not Therus."

Victoria groaned. "Damn it boy! You know how much I hate surprises."

"I do, mom. This one is worth it, I promise."

About thirty minutes after leaving the estate, they arrive at Greetha's. Pulling into spots in the small parking lot, they get out and Victoria is confused as Greetha's has no signage outside, and the location is just a simple business park on the edge of the highest priced parts of Zootopia. You don't get in if you don't know where the door is, and even then, you have to be allowed in to get past the inner doors.

Walking up to the door, Nick pulled it open and motioned everyone inside. Once inside, Nick led them down the hallway to another door pushing it open and leading the way inside. Victoria right behind him froze as she took in the sight of a high end restaurant hidden inside the seemingly innocuous business park. The Matra'de, a white tailed buck with at least a twelve point rack, smiled at seeing Nick and Judy. "Welcome to Greetha's. Your table is already waiting, and I understand you will be having a large party again today."

Nick grinned. "That's right Andre. Brought a few guests as well."

With a smile and roll of his eyes, the deer shook his head. "It is Andreas, sir."

"Yes, but I didn't call you Points, right?"

Frowning for a moment. "I suppose you are correct there, sir." Looking to Judy. "How you stand him, I will never know ma'am." Then looking over the others. "Welcome again to Greetha's. Lady and Master Wolford, I see you have brought Master Wolford's parents. Please, Alpha's, follow me." Andreas showed them to a large table, seating everyone, with several seats to spare. Victoria looked around in amazement.

Once Andreas had walked away, Victoria turned sharply to the other two couples currently at the table, her voice a growling whisper. "Greetha's‽ You got us a table at Greetha's‽ How? No, really. How?"

Judy smiled. "Nick and I kinda have a walk in reservation. It is actually how Greetha's works. There is a lot more room here than you realize. The businesses of the business park disguises the fact that Greetha's takes up the back of the business park. It is deeper than it looks. Besides, the high end boutiques don't need to keep much stock on hand."

Victoria shook her head. "I am getting to eat at Greetha's." Grinning, before her grin fell into a frown. "How can you two have a standing invitation? How do you pay for it? I really hope you don't expect us to pay for it?"

A melodic voice from behind Victoria responded. "Nope. Since I roped them, finally, into singing on the charity album, along with Mike and Lizz. And since I am going to ask that they do some more tracks requested by the actual artists as bonus tracks. I will be paying."

Victoria's eyes bulged, recognizing the voice. "No..." Staring across at the grinning faces of Nick, Judy, Lizz, and Mike. She turned and looked up at the Gazelle standing behind her. "You're..."

Maria gave Victoria a brilliant smile. "Yes, I'm Gazelle, but please, call me Maria. Gazelle is just a stage name."

Another voice added itself to the conversation, causing Victoria to look down. "I initially thought it was a bit reductionist, and yet, it works. Plus, it allows her to be one of her own producers as Maria, and not make it seem as pretentious." Holding out a paw. "Carlos Gharrett. I'm Maria's manager, as well as her primary producer. It is a pleasure to meet the Wolford Alpha's." Offering his paw to Arron after shaking with Victoria. Victoria shook the offered paw, her eyes returning to Maria in shock.

Judy watched Carlos climb into his seat, Maria taking one as well. "Carlos. Where is Bobby?"

Bobby answered from behind her. "Just getting drinks for us from the bar with Jarvis, but thank you for the concern Judy. I know you're worried about the history Carlos and I have. We have had several long talks, and we are both not the same mammal we were. I think we are both in a spot where a relationship may in fact work."

Judy smiled warmly and gave Bobby a small hug and peck on the cheek as he leaned down. "That's good to hear."

Jarvis slipped in next to Maria, and gave her a peck on the cheek of his own. "Yeah, and if the way these two act keeps up, I'm going to put them into the WildeHopps category of lethally, sickeningly, sweet."

Nick laughed. "Hey Jarvis, and we are not that bad. Have you two seen the doc yet?"

Maria grinned. "Yes, you are. As for seeing the doc, we have, and after some tests and genetic profiling, she assures us that it is possible, just like with you guys. It is just a higher bar for us to get the right mix to have a viable embryo. So she is doing some additional tests to see if there is a treatment or something that can improve our chances."

Judy beamed. "Oh, Maria. I'm so happy for you two. That you are going to be able to have kits of your own."

Maria nodded with a grin and wiped a tear. "We actually just came from her office. We're still going to adopt too. Still, to know that it is possible for my Jarvis to give me a calf of our own has given me such hope and inspiration. I think I have written five songs in the last few days, and Bobby has been right there with music that perfectly matches them."

Jarvis grinned as well. "We talked about it on the ride over, and we are going to adopt sooner than later." Looking over to Victoria. "Lady Wolford. I'm sure you have many wolf pups that need good homes, and we, Maria and I, would be honored to take in one or two, if siblings. We would also want to make sure that, while we would raise them, they would go to Wolford schools, attend pack functions, and know their heritage. That is something that is very important to both Maria and I, that any cub we adopt knows their heritage."

Victoria put up a paw, and one could almost hear the screeching tires of a car. "Stop right there." Taking a deep, calming breath. "My apologies, I am normally more level headed, but my son and freshly minted daughter-in-law know that I am a super fan. I'm one of three members of the leaderboard of your fan club. Gazelle… Maria. It is a pleasure and honor to meet you in person. Something I can honestly say I haven't had the pleasure of before."

Mike chuckled. "Actually, mom. You met her at the reception. You even commented on how much she looked like herself. Maria was just letting her accent slip, as few people realize what her true accent is."

Victoria's eyes went wide as the pieces fell into place and put up her paw again, closing her eyes tight as she groaned. Again, the faint sound of screeching tires could be heard. "Maria, as in Judy's roommate, as in a former vigilante, and now the biggest pop star on the planet? Okay, you all have to be having a bit of fun at my expense. This is too much."

Maria smiled and leaned over, dropping her accent fully. "I assure you, it is all quite real. In fact, both of your cubs will be trained up by Nick and Judy as their final test."

Victoria laughed. "You... You are the combat master that turned Judy into the literal force of nature that she is?"

Maria chuckled and returned to her regular mild accent. "I'm the one that gave her the tools, it is Judy that molded herself into that. Just as Nick was given the tools, but fashioned himself into what he is. With some help from a certain bunny."

Nick nodded with a laugh. "I was a complete waste with the skills I had. The reasons are irrelevant at this point. My bunny brought me back to life and I am forever grateful for that."

Judy blushed as Nick placed a kiss between her ears. "Niiick!"

Nick grinned at his bunny, "Yes my love?"

Maria laughed. "And there is the diabetes."

Laughing, Victoria shook her head. "Yes, and yet, when they are not being that, they are a force to be reckoned with."

Nodding, Maria smiled. "That they are. So, you are the third member of the fan club leadership? I suppose I should invite you, Adrian and Ben to the house for dinner some time. You have all three certainly earned it."

Victoria blinked as the appetizer was placed in front of her. "Hold up. First, I didn't order anything. I haven't even seen a menu. Two... Adrian and Ben, as in Chief Bogo and the cheetah?"

Maria nodded with a smile. "The same. You didn't know?"

The surprise was clear in her voice. "I did not. We all use online pseudonyms. For obvious reasons now. Though after what I saw last night, I expect they knew about each other."

Maria grinned. "They do. I make it a point of knowing who the leaders of the fan clubs are. Been forced to force the closing of a few of them because the mammals in charge were less than fans, and either scamming the members, or more uber creepers. Not that I was worried about my safety. I have my Stripped Fury to protect me, as well as my own skills, and all my clothes are made of armor cloth like Nick and Judy's."

Judy piped up. "Nick has already made arrangements for Mike and Lizz. Mom already has their measurements."

Maria nodded in approval. "Very good. Let me ask you this, Judy. Did he tell you, did you overhear with those ears of yours, or you just know it."

Judy looked away as she chewed a bite of her appetizer. "I... I just know." Glancing at Nick. "That's the start of level five, isn't it."

Maria nodded. "Yes, it is. I knew you two would get there, and soon, I realized that you were far more advanced than I knew when you were able to communicate the distance between Eric's condo and Mine. Are you two ready for it?"

Nick shrugged his shoulders. "Do we have a choice? No, we don't. It wouldn't be happening if we were not ready for it. So we are ready for it, knowingly or not."

Maria smiled. "Excellent to hear that." Turning her attention back to Victoria. "Now, Victoria. Can I call you that?" Getting a nod. "There is no menu here. The Chef has already been by and decided what each of us will be eating. Trust me though, you will not be disappointed."

Looking down at her appetizer and trying it, Victoria moaned. "Okay. This is a flavor bomb. But you said the Chef has already been by?"

Maria nodded. "Yes, and they will present themselves after the meal is complete."

Arron, having finished his own appetizer, chuckled. "This first offering was divine. I'm sorry I didn't offer you any, Vic. It was just so good, it was gone before I realized."

Maria smiled, Jarvis interjecting as she was chewing. "It is actually discouraged to share, as each dish, unless they place a shared item between you, is meant just for you. Like you see Nick and Judy sharing in a disgustingly adorable manner."

Victoria looked over to see the remains of a shrimp and vegetable skewer being shared between Nick and Judy. Shaking her head as they fed each other. "Good gods, they really are that bad." She then noticed that Mike and Lizz also had something similar, which they were also feeding each other, and just as oblivious to the universe. "Oh gods. Luna preserve us, they are just as bad," Indicating Lizz and Mike.

Maria smiled. "They are only at level three, bordering on four."

Turning to Maria, Victoria had a curious look. "What do you mean by that?"

"Their communication. Jarvis and I are at level two. Between my other dancers and I, just level one. It is something I learned about from the documentation that I inherited. Suffice it to say, I am the last of my line, and for that the world is a better place. That said, I will not let the knowledge and skills die with me. It may have been collected and gained through evil, but it would be a crime to let the knowledge itself die. So I have conscripted Nick and Judy, and am working towards their suggestion of starting a dojo. Lizz and Mike will be the first official students of that dojo, with Nick and Judy as masters of the dojo. When they determine that Lizz and Mike have reached the appropriate level, I will come in and test them myself."

Victoria turned to Arron. "Do you think?"

Arron nodded. "Has to be. I told you that Judy and Nick's techniques were both familiar. I'm convinced that Nick was taught by the Helketta."

Nick looked up with concern in his eyes. "Arron, you should speak carefully."

He turned to Nick with a hint of fear in his eyes. "Then it is true then. You were not just the Vengeful Vulpine."

"Arron. I'm going to ask you to stop your speculation right there. There is no need to speak of such things. That is ancient history in the scheme of the world, and whoever that way has clearly not resurfaced, nor would I expect them to. If anything, I heard that they died."

Arron nodded. "So I have also heard."

Maria shook her head. "Nick. Just as I am the last, so are you. So stop stressing about it. It is a name that holds no power, any more than the name Cheth does. The Cheth clan is dead. I am the inheritor of their knowledge and cleaned out all the safe and storehouses. Destroyed things like the drugs, made sure the money got to those who could better use it, and the knowledge, writings, etc... I have stored in secure locations. No different than what you did."

Nick smirked. "I have no idea what you are talking about, Maria."

Judy rolled her eyes and elbowed Nick. "Right. And I am the inheritor of both, as are you. Both of us are learning from each other, and as level five takes hold fully, we will never be able to hit each other again."

Maria grinned. "True, Judy. But you will also both be fully able to reflect all the skills and knowledge of the other whenever needed. You will never reach level seven though. You are far too strong as individuals. I think the most you will do is slip in and out of level six, and then only in extreme moments."

Judy nodded. "I agree. Six is very close to losing ourselves, and while I love him unconditionally, I don't think either of us is willing or able to give up ourselves like that. Though the erotic possibilities of sense sharing is intriguing."

Maria laughed. "Only you."

Nick grinned. "Not just her."

Victoria interjected as the next course landed in front of them, a shared dish for her and Arron. "Hold up. So it is true then?" Seeing Maria nod, as well as Nick, though reluctantly. "This is too much. The inheritors of the last ancient lines of assassins. Those who all modern wannabe's wish they were, love to claim, and cannot come up to the truth. And they're going to be training my son and his mate?" Her face took on a look of concern. "Is your plan to turn the Wolford pack into an assassin's pack?"

Maria smiled warmly, though her voice was hard. "No way in hell. The dojo will be to teach advanced and basic self defense, as well as additional skills to ZPD and other agency special teams such as TUSK and SWAT, with the occasional mammal we find worthy of being initiated in even more. When we, mostly Nick and Judy, and later Lizz and Mike, identify a mammal with the right potential, and mentality, they will be tested and brought into the fold. They will be taught the rest of the skills, but the goal will never be to make assassins.

Could they become that, yes, after their training is completed and they become masters themselves. That is not the goal. I do not want to create a new guild, or clan, or whatever you might be thinking. I only wish to preserve the knowledge, as that knowledge is innocent and worthy of preservation, but the culture of being assassins and focusing on training the next generation of paid murderers. That is most definitely not something I want to create. Now, I do hope you understand that I tell you these things to let you know of, and help you understand my intentions."

Victoria nodded with a smile. "I do, and I appreciate your candor. You relieve any fears I had." Turning to Nick. "What about you?"

Nick sighed and glanced at Judy who smiled at him. "I am the rather reluctant inheritor, unlike Maria. I wasn't born into it, but fell into it. I was underground when they fell, and the world is, as Maria put it, better for it. That said, their knowledge, what they could do and how, is worth preserving. I would never willingly train someone to that level if I knew they would become that, however."

Lizz chuckled. "I get the feeling that I am sitting at the table with three of the most dangerous mammals on the planet."

Maria chuckled. "Five, actually. I've trained Jarvis, and Judy is the inheritor of both Nick and my training. Then of course there is our fried Carlos."

Carlos groaned. "Really Maria." Rolling his eyes. "Fine. I'm the last of the Gell. Only, unlike Maria or Nick, I was only able to recover a fraction of their teachings and knowledge. The rest was destroyed or stolen, not that it matters. The Gell were not at the same level as the others, and I was not that far along in my training when everything went to hell for us. I was away, without permission mind you, playing video games at the arcade. Something that was fully against the rules and would have earned me a proper beating, yet it saved my life because no one knew where I was."

The next course was placed as Victoria chuckled. "Well, what are the odds of inheritors of not one, but three of the last traditional assassin clans sitting at the same table. All of whom want to preserve the knowledge but lose the baggage of the source." With a shake of her head, she looked over the table. "Yes, I think that is just about enough of that conversation. I know my son and his mate are in good paws, in all things." Looking across the table as Lizz and Mike who were looking between the other mammals with surprised looks. "Lizz. Mike. You two have made perhaps the best possible choice when it comes to your chosen firsts. They will be able to meet and help you through any challenge you encounter. They will teach you to be better mammals in all ways. You will also likely live a lot longer than you might otherwise, if the rumors are true."

Mike nodded. "We made the choice because we knew them as our friends. We knew them as mammals who always sought to do the right thing and seemed to find ways to do that against all odds. We just had a feeling about them. The things we have learned about them since, have simply cemented our decision as having been the correct one."

Victoria nodded, Arron giving her an agreeing nod. "Okay, now I need to go back to a question. What is this level one, two, etc… that you are talking about?"

Maria smiled. "Both my clan and Nicks knew of what you refer to as the Lunar gift, I believe. Where two mammals can gain levels of communication that are far beyond just simple speech. Level One is an understanding at an instinctive level, being able to read the intentions of the other and know what is being communicated. However, it is more limited than it sounds. Like I said, my other dancers and I have level one, it is really just a function of training and familiarity."

Aaron nodded. "Okay, that makes sense. Level two?"

Jarvis continued as Maria was chewing. "Level two is seen with many married mammals, where they just know the needs of their significant other. Where they know you're having a bad day without you needing to say anything and just know what you need. That's where Maria and I are at. Level three takes that a step further, where the mammals in question don't need to see the other to know the others mood, feelings, and the communication deepens. They will know and act on that.

Level three is common amongst those who have a truly deep and spiritual connection, and can sometimes act on it without thinking. Level three can be spooky and disconcerting to other mammals, with those at that level completing each other's sentences, not just occasionally, but constantly. Level four, which is where Nick and Judy are at, as well as Lizz and Mike, is where the mammals take control over that communication. At level three, the communication is at an instinctual or unconscious level. At level four, it reaches the conscious mind and they can actually carry on a conversation that no one else is privy to."

Victoria nodded. "Okay, that explains a lot."

Maria nodded. "Yes. Lizz and Mike are in the early stages of level three, whereas Judy and Nick are right on the border of slipping into level five. Based on what Judy just said, they are doing just that. At level five, they begin to share on an even deeper level, to the point that they literally know what the other knows. They are not just sharing how they are feeling, but all the knowledge they have as well. At level five, as they make a move, the other will know it and can counter it. As Judy suggested. Once they are fully into level five, they will never be able to land a punch the other doesn't allow, and what one knows or learns, the other will know and have access to as well."

Victoria nodded in surprise. "Wow. I get the feeling you are only hitting it at a high level. Based on what you have described, I guess Arron and I are at level three. We don't have the ability to share the way Nick and Judy, as well as Mike and Lizz do, but we don't need to talk necessarily to know the other's mind after a look."

Jarvis smiled. "Yes, sounds like you are at a Level two bleeding into three."

Arron nodded. "So six and seven?"

Maria smiled. "Six is where the sharing expands into the sensations, and senses of the other. They can see through the eyes of the other, hear what they hear, smell and taste what the other does, etc… All without being near each other. That said, it is truly rare, and causes those to reach that level to start to bleed over into each other. Those that reach the highest levels of level six start to lose their individuality , their personalities blending together until they reach level seven. At level seven, the individual mammal's self, blends to the point that they are no longer separate individuals, but one individual possessing more than one body. The personality of which is an amalgam of the mammals that made up the individuals. It is a complete surrender of self."

Nodding, Victoria paused a moment to chew a bite before speaking. "I see, and with such strong personalities, they probably will never be able to surrender their individuality enough to reach into six let alone reach seven."

Maria nodded. "That's right. Though I'm sure Nick and Judy will reach into six from time to time, moments of extreme stress or need, but never for long. They're far too strong of mind and personality for it to last before their strong sense of self reasserts itself."

With a nod of understanding, Victoria looked over Nick, Judy, MIke, and Lizz. "That makes sense... Now, my question is. What is this about a charity album?"

Maria grinned. "Yes. Well, I have been trying to get Nick and Judy to sing on one of my albums forever."

Judy piped in. "And we have never before because you have had shite for song choices, amongst other reasons."

Laughing, Maria continued, ignoring Judy. "Judy and Nick have the voices of angels, dark, brooding, angels. Their voices are truly amazing, and when they harmonize..." Maria shook herself with a smile. "Anyway. I'm doing a charity album, like I do every year, only this time I'm ending up with two. We have the normal one that showcases the talents of otherwise unknowns, at least one of whom is going to end up with a recording contract. Happens every year."

Carlos piped up. "At least two this time around. Though I only have my eye on one, depending on how they do at the follow up recording sessions and the concert."

Smiling, Maria nodded "Or two. The second charity album is going to be for first responders, and the only singers on there are just that. It features a few ZFD members, some EMTs, two nurses, an ER doctor from Zootopia General, and others. Then there are the stars, the ZPD's first bunny and first fox, along with Lizz and Mike. The others are good, but these four are something else. So much so that several of the artists we are working with and who have heard the initial recording set, have asked for them to do additional songs. Essentially bonus tracks.

All proceeds from the first album go to the usual charities I support, and now the MMSF primarily. The proceeds from the first responders album, which will be called 10-7, goes into the general funds that the various services maintain for their mammals who are injured in the line of duty, or the families of fallen members."

Judy shook her head. "Which is the only reason you finally got us to sing for you. That, and you actually had worthwhile song choices."

Dessert was placed as Victoria smiled. "Oh, that is wonderful. Such worthy charities. Nick, Judy. The MMSF has gotten a maxed out donation from the Wolford pack as an organization, as well as Arron and my own capacities."

Nick smiled widely. "Thank you. I was sadly forced into initiating the creation of the MMSF after the incident at the bank while we were doing a valuation of Carrot's and my collection."

Mike laughed. "Yeah, which you had to put into a trust."

Nick shrugged. "Yeah, well. With it in trust, we can access more of its value when we need to. Such as after the move, we're going to be spending some money on new furniture. Our old stuff, as comfortable as it is, is just that, old. Plus we need to spend money on cribs, kit proofing the apartment, etc... There is a lot to do after the move."

Victoria frowned. "What happened at the bank?"

Mike frowned. "I learned the hard way that Nick is not treated the same as I am, or Lizz, or even Judy."

Judy frowned. "I didn't want to bring it up at the recording, but the fact is, I pay twice as much as any other officer for the health coverage, for much the same reason as Nick does. I'm a rabbit, so the insurance adjusters think I'm just going to keel over at some point. I can't get life insurance at all, and no matter what Bogo has done, he can't get them to put either of us on the ZPDs life insurance policy."

Victoria had a very deep frown on her face, brows furrowed. "Okay, you need to explain this, right now."

Nick glanced at Judy who gave him a nod. "Simple. I'm a fox, so as far as the insurance company is concerned, I've got a weak system, etc... I am also expected to try and scam the insurance company for payout on things that didn't happen. So, I went without insurance for my first three months on the force, until I got hurt, and Judy dragged me to the hospital to get checked out. To say she was livid when they tried to charge me upfront, despite being in uniform, would be an understatement. Then when they tried to bill me for the care, at almost four times what anyone else at this table would have paid, save Carlos. Well, there have been a few times I've been hurt that she has had to make threats before I could get care.

So, after Judy arrested the mammal resources mammals over the fact that I wasn't on the rolls, and they refused to put me on it, Bogo got involved. I'm on a separate policy and pay a grand per month, and can only use it for things that happen on the job. It was that, or the insurance company was simply going to drop the ZPD, period. Judy pays 250 a month, although she has generally the same coverage as you do, she has higher deductibles.

There is a reason we make a trip to Bunnyburrow once a month. One of her sisters sees us as our primary. I try not to use my coverage unless I've been shot or something, because even then, my deductible and copays are huge. We've already set aside the money needed to cover the birth and such, because those are not covered for her under the plan. It is one of the places where her coverage diverges from the rest of the ZPD."

Arron had a horrified look on his face. "And the bank?"

Nick shrugged. "Not like I am not used to having issues with banks. They must have overheard Mike, Joan, and I discussing the content of the cache. So, the bank tried to claim I was behind on the payments, even called the ZPD, and of course refused to believe I was a cop until other cops showed up. The MMSF will help those other foxes and other mammals that have their accounts vanished, or punitive fees applied to their accounts, etc... because I got away with my stuff."

Mike let a low growl. "What he is not telling you, mom. Is that he was also paying twice to four times what he should have been for the safe deposit boxes in question, depending on the bank. I followed up and ran into several mammals coming out of that bank the following days, often with tears because their accounts were just as Nick said they would be. Vanished, or fee'd into oblivion.

Only it is worse than that. One of them had KS standing there, outside the bank, waiting for them to come out of the bank with proof of an account with money in it. I wouldn't be surprised if I find myself with my own black mark, since I threatened to arrest that KS mammal. There is no way they would have done that to any other mammal, save that she was a weasel. So they could get away with it. Then again, if she were a wolf, a tiger, a gazelle, KS wouldn't have ever even been involved and the bank would have been bending over backwards to figure out what happened. It was the bank themselves that called KS on her. How can the bank know that she's got no money or account with them in order to call KS, unless they have done something?"

Victoria and Arron were both clearly horrified, Victoria shaking her head in disbelief. "My gods. You're telling me that you just accept this?" Looking between Nick and Judy. "That you don't report this or sue them, or do something!" Her agitation clearly getting worse.

Judy shook her head sadly. "Victoria. Just as we are going to be underestimated, looked down on, and written off by those wolves that will stand against Mike and Lizz. Their reactions to us are probably not going to be anything worse than what we already live with, just focused in the moment. Rabbits pay more for insurance, housing, etc... unless it is in a rabbit-heavy area like Bunnyburrow, Podunk, etc… because we're rabbits and we're just going to overrun the place with kits. Some places put clauses in their lease agreements for rabbits that say we cannot have rabbits visit, and if we do, we have to certify that they are family. If we get married we will sometimes lose our housing.

Foxes, weasels, etc... They don't even get the option. Nick is the exception because of his job, and again, he only gets to use the coverage when he's hurt on the job. The last time he got actually sick, was because we spent two days in the Rain Forest district hunting a murder suspect.

Nick picked up a fungus in his lungs, and honestly, it should have killed him. However, the insurance company refused to believe that he got it while on the job, so I had to pack him up and drag him to see my sibling in order for him to get treatment. Of course, we had to do it at the hotel, because the hospital refused to give him a room. This is the lived experience of foxes, weasels, and others. And mammals wonder why they have the attitudes that do. Most mammals just do not understand the privilege they have. Even I have significant privilege over someone like Nick, Fin, or even Duke."

Nick picked up from there, looking directly at Maria. "One of the next projects Judy and I have on tap is to convince you and Bill to buy up some small bank. One where you can force the culture change and provide banking services that are fair to marginalized mammals. Then, maybe an insurance company that charges fair premiums, with actually worthwhile coverage." Shaking his head. "I know that's an unreasonable ask, we both do, which is why we haven't mentioned it. Just forget it. Although I was expecting Bill and Carry to be here tonight."

Maria looked at Nick with rage in her eyes. "Why would you think that was an unreasonable ask? For that matter, you started the MMSF, and I know you have the money. Why not do it yourself?"

Judy laughed darkly. "Zootopia financial code, section 2282A4.6D, sub-section seven through ten. Foxes, nor raccoon's, weasels, skunks, rabbits, and a list of other mammals I'm betting you can guess, are not allowed to own banks or other financial institutions, insurance companies, or participate in insurance co-ops. They also cannot own any controlling shares in said types of businesses. No, there is nothing that they can do about that, because they would need to already be stinking rich just to get most lawyers to talk to them and then be charged a massive fee just to have the initial conversation.

Simply put. Discrimination, despite the city governments claim to the contract, is literally enshrined in law when it comes to the mammals considered marginalized in our society."

Maria had her phone out. "Bill! First, why are you not here at dinner? … Oh, I see." Maria looked up at Nick. "I guess he and Carry went and saw your doctor and got a similar prognosis as Jarvis and I, so…" Turing her attention back to the phone. "We are buying a bank and an insurance company. I'll be the face of it. ... Did you know that they refused to put Nick on the ZPDs insurance policy because he is a fox and only after Judy interceded did he get coverage at all, for which he pays a thousand a month for coverage that only applies to on the job, and for which they often reject coverage even so? ... No I'm not kidding. Judy pays two fifty a month, and her maternity care is not covered. ... The bank? Simple, because that is why they started the MMSF. Nick has some sort of altercation at a bank trying to claim his things in a safe deposit box. ... Paying four times what he should be. ... You already own a bank? Well then you better be checking their policies. What bank is it? ..." Looking up at Nick. "5th Zootopia national?"

Nick laughed. "That is where Judy and I have our accounts. I pay two hundred a month in fees for the honor of having an account there, and probably three times what a non-fox, like a wolf, would pay for the safe deposit box." The shouted, what, could be heard by all at the table as Maria held the phone away from her head. "Sorry Bill, but that's the truth. We got the accounts online, but had to go in, in person, to make the deposit, and as soon as I, a fox, walked in, the account type changed. As was Judy's, just not as bad. I mean, I knew weasels and such had it as or nearly as bad as I did, but I never knew that rabbits in the city got screwed over just as bad."

Judy smiled up at Nick. "It's okay love. I had no idea that most of what I thought was true was complete dung perpetrated by a society that wants to claim tolerance but keep their bigotry by focusing it on a few species. Allowing themselves to feel enlightened, but still satisfy their assholery."

Maria was shaking mad. "You never told me this. How much did you pay for your classes?"

Judy frowned. "Maria. It is a bit late for that now."

Maria's voice went cold as she glared at her friend. "How much, Judy."

Sighing, Judy shook her head. "Five hundred Z's per credit. But at least I got my degree. You remember David, the raccoon?"

Maria frowned. "Yeah? What of him? He just disappeared one day, and after we had worked so hard to help him."

"After I learned about things, and how they really were. I looked him up. He had his transcript deleted just before graduation, and then escorted off campus for trespassing. That's why we never saw him again. It was made to seem as if he had never attended classes there. All the money paid, gone. Since they didn't even let him access his room, he lost everything he owned, all the money he invested in his education. He ended up on the streets, then arrested for vagrancy... Well, you, I'm sure, can map out how things went from there for him. He's currently in for five years because of the zero tolerance and minimum sentencing laws, which only apply to marginalized species."

Lizz frowned. "Damn it! Why do things have to get depressing like this every time?"

Judy smiled. "I look at it as less depressing, and more the chance to get more mammals to understand the realities of our world, which will hopefully make things better." Judy looked back at Maria. "I didn't tell you because I knew you'd go ballistic, and it was just something I accepted as a fact of being a rabbit. Just like Nick and the way he is treated."

Lizz nodded, her frown still in place. "Okay. I can believe that. Still! How about we discuss something positive, such as moving tomorrow?"

Judy grinned. "Oh yes. That is going to be so great! And we're not getting screwed over on the rent."

Lizz nodded. "I'm going to ignore that, as I know it'll lead back into how you two have been screwed over." Shaking her head. "Yes, into a community of other inters."

Mike smiled. "Mom, our new place is in Misty Cliffs Family Suites. The same place Ed and Elli live in. The manager, Jacob, is a great mammal."

Victoria nodded, though a scowl was still on her muzzle. "He is at that." Turning to Arron. "I suppose we are going to have to sell him that chunk of property after all."

Nick spoke up. "I know he's not a wolf, but that doesn't stop you from going into business with him, right? Why not, instead of selling to him, you go into business with him. You own the land, he's got the capitol already to buy and then build. So instead go in with him and build condo's. If he doesn't need to use the money to buy the land, but instead use it to build taller, and higher end. Then of course you're the silent partner, but I'll bet a lot of the current residents of Misty Cliffs Family Suites would be up for buying a condo. Hell, I'm looking at the apartment we are going into and wondering if he'd be willing to sell it as a condo."

Victoria smiled. "That is actually a really good idea. Arron, what do you think? Should we look into that?"

Arron nodded with a thoughtful expression. "As with every interaction with these four, we're left not just with things to think about, and challenges to preconceived ideas; we're also left with ideas that will help mammals. I mean, we talked last night with that little fox, Finnick. He's got this new venture he is going to be starting with a baker named Gideon. The one that did the cake for the wedding. Both are foxes, and Finnik was complaining how the bank changed the terms of the business accounts for the restaurant once they found out he was a fox. That said, he was open to the idea of opening a second location, once he gets things settled with the current one. Apparently he purchased it very recently. The problem is, with the terms the bank is hitting him with, I don't know how he's going to ever make enough profit. "

Nick nodded. "He did. The bank probably figured it out when he went in to make the deposit."

Victoria's eyes narrowed. "That's nice that he is looking at a second location. Do you know where?"

Arron smiled. "I was talking to him about opening one up in pack territory. We'd be willing to give him really favorable terms, and Gideon too. Though it might be a bit because of the bank, like I said."

Mike smiled. "That would be great."

Maria spoke up, still actually on the phone. "Odd question. Any of you know an investigative accountant?"

Lizz, Mike, Judy, and Nick all laugh, Mike speaking. "In fact, we do. A very good one."

Maria smiled. "I'm putting you on speaker, Bill."

Bill from the phone, clearly sounding angry. "I just had your account reviewed, Nick... I... I had no idea. I am so sorry. Now I need someone independant that can come in and give me a real accounting of what is going on."

Mike nodded as he looked at the phone. "I can put you in touch with my brother, Edward."

"Ed Wolford? As in the Wolford of Wolford, Rathe, and Errt?"

"The same. Really, just reach out and tell his secretary that Mike said to call and if she doesn't believe you, to call me."

Bill speaking over the phone. "I will do that. Thank you. Nick. Judy. I will fix this."

Nick smiled. "You do that, Bill, and you will become the biggest bank in the city as every fox, weasel, skunk, raccoon, and rabbit, will change over to your bank. I know Fin would love to move his accounts to somewhere that won't screw him over, and Gideon does everything with cash, or by buying prepaid cards for the same reason. You fix things like you are suggesting and you're going to have to open new branches throughout the city. You'll force the rest of them to start treating us fairly just to compete. I'm sure they'll try and sue you. I mean, how dare you not charge absurd fees for the pleasure of having an account that doesn't accrue interest."

A sudden grin came through the phone via Bill's voice. "Oh, that sounds like a fun lawsuit. Maria, we'll talk more later and work out how you buy in and represent things."

"Sounds good, Bill." Maria ended the call and slipped her phone back in her purse.

A silver backed jackal walked up the table. "Good evening guests. I would beg your indulgence for a moment to advise how your meal was?"

Nick grinned at him. "I thought I tasted your flare for spice, Aberash. The meal was excellent as always."

Judy nodded. "Yes, thank you, Aberash. The combined meal items were delicious as always, and just spicy enough without being overdone."

Maria grinned. "I knew it was you as soon as I tasted the spicing. You always manage to capture a bit of home, while still making it your own. Fabulous as always."

Victoria grinned. "You are the chef I presume? Well, I have to say, this was one of the most flavorful, exotic, and fulfilling meals I have ever experienced."

Aberash grinned up at Victoria. "Thank you. It was my honor to cook for you." Turning with a slight happy wag to his tail. "I do hope you can make it a habit of eating here." Disappearing into the kitchen once again.

Victoria smiled. "Well, that was different. I'm terrified to know how much this meal is actually going to cost us though."

Maria smiled. "My treat as I said at the beginning."

Judy frowned at Maria. "Maria... Don't. It was our treat by inviting Victoria and Arron. The key is getting them in the door, and you know it."

Maria waved a hoof in Judy's direction. "Sure. Sure. I'm still paying for it, so I get to call it my treat if I want to."

Arron chuckled. "So, how much is a meal like this?"

Maria shrugged. "No idea. Then again, I've never looked at my card statement to find out either."

Nick chuckled as they got up from the table. "It runs between 250 and 1000 per mammal, and depends on the chef you get assigned, and what you get served. Aberash runs around 500 per mammal on average. You see, Aberash was cooking for us, and only us. Now that he has done his bit by coming out to ask how the food was, he will now go back into the rotation and be assigned another table. They cook for one table at a time, be it a single mammal or a group of thirty."

Victoria smiled. "Oh, wow. That's expensive, and exclusive, but I guess with that sort of setup, it makes sense."

Judy smiled and nodded up at Victoria. "You will never have a meal that you're unhappy with here."

"That I believe.

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A/N

Remember to share the love. Review and Fav. It is the life blood of every writer to know you are enjoying their work. I also want to thank everyone who has Fav'd, followed, and reviewed this little project. I know that isn't much, but to me, it's huge. Even as a writer of original fiction, that you enjoy this means a lot to me as an author. You can check out my original work and link to my Blog, Scribblings, where a lot of it lives by hopping over to dcballard . com ( Direct: ascensionnovel . / scribblings (remove the spaces) because the forwarding is misbehaving.)

If you enjoy this, and you are not also reading my original Log Entries series over on my Blog. Why aren't you? (takes a Nick-esk pose of hurt) Also. I am now posting them on AO3, so you have even less excuse. It's free, ORIGINAL fiction. "An original story told through the log entries of the pilot and captain of an experimental star ship."

You should really be checking out my bestest bud, Bear678, and his story What Foxes May Come.

So keep those reviews and comments coming. And also remember, if you see issues, misspellings, etc... Let me know in PM, I'm under no illusion of being perfect and want to fix those things I miss.