FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

The sun had just started to set on the jewelled metropolis of Zootopia. The various diverse eco-zones that comprised the mega city began lighting up one by one. Slivers of darkness began to descend among the cities tall towers, canopy's, and apartment buildings. The moon now full, neither hindered by clouds or by the days blue skies. Shinning like a silver coin in a sea of black, it hovered above the glittering lights and tall peak of Mount Eden, Zootopia's iconic and famous mountain summit. Its illuminated lunar presence leading to a cacophony of howls and barks from the cities vast population of canine residents.

Zootopia's late night jazz radio station ZANJS, was just coming on, the relaxing and calming music washing over the airwaves. The gentle lulling music soothing many a Zootopian coming home from a long day of work. While, for the cities nocturnal citizens, it was a serene and empowering serenade for them to wake up to and go about their night-time routines.

Nick Wilde, former con-fox turned police officer, was particularly enjoying one such piece. It was a trumpet solo belonging to the legendary jazz musician, the late great Scat-Cat Caruthers. Jazz was right now just the thing he needed to help him get to relaxing after a difficult days work. The fox listened blissfully as he soaked in his large decorative cast iron bathtub. The music emanating from the small travel radio lounging itself on a small foot stool beside the tub. Gazing up at his yellow-green ceiling while now on his back floating naked in the hot soapy tub water, Nick couldn't help but let out a relaxed yet sore groan. His black foot-paws gripping both sides of the tub to keep him anchored above the water lest he drown. He wasn't very keen on that particular outcome, especially not in his good tub.

The cast iron bathtub had been a souvenir of his previous life. Back when he had courted the wrong side of the law. For ages though it had simply stood useless, away in a storage locker: untouched, unfilled, unappreciated. Of course that had been long before his new job and new life.

In those days Nick had been living in an abandoned factory district beside (and even under) a bridge. Such conditions didn't really scream relaxing or private place for a bath. Now however that he had been accepted onto the Zootopian Police Force, he had found himself a new place in the city. A fairly well sized apartment suite in the Downtown district.

Nick and his old partner and fellow con-fox Finnick, who he'd hired to help him move his things out of storage (given his current lack of non-criminal friends) had a hell of a time getting the tub from the bottom lobby, to his apartment on the fourteenth floor.

Finnick had also complained the whole way, the small fennec fox a compact boiling cauldron of anger and colorful language. By the time they had gotten the tub into his bathroom, Nick could have sworn his friend had just ensured he wouldn't get his deposit back for all the noise complaints.

The silver colored cast iron tub was heavily decorated and engraved, with flowers and banners, even a few angels and gargoyles as one might see in a church. It was quite wide and deep, or at least for a fox. If Nick had been born a polar bear or any species close to them in size and girth, it would be a quite tighter fit. Luckily though for the fox it was like a small pool, the water going right up to his neck if he was too stand up in the tub.

He had, 'acquired' this particular tub while moonlighting as a fake repo-fur for a pair of raccoon brothers. Their main source of business was in pawning and fencing hot merchandise. The tub had been originally set to be destroyed along with the condemned house it had been left in, but Nick had decided it was too good for such a fate. He had also decided not to hand it over to someone else, someone less deserving than he.

As he was floating, Nick couldn't help but start to appreciate his new apartment, his ornate tub, and more importantly his new life. Being on the straight side of things, with the blue stripes and his charming young friend and partner, Judy Hopps.

Thoughts of the energetic and overly chirpy rabbit girl cluttered up Nicks mind, a contented smile spreading across his muzzle as he thought about his first best friend, as well as his first willing prey friend.

Judy had believed in him, she had given him the courage and the desire to make something of himself. They had had their share of hiccups and misunderstandings to be sure, but hey who didn't? The important thing was they had come to a clear understanding and appreciation of each other. He was her sly but dumb fox, and she his lovable and smart carrot rabbit.

With Judy on his thoughts, Nick couldn't help but think back to work today. He had sworn after getting home he wouldn't even think about what had happened again, but his mind was not one to follow anyone's orders, not even his. He couldn't help but flash back to the days activities.

The day had started out quite normal as was usual. He had met Judy that morning on the Zootopian metro system, and they had gone together as their customary, on the tube to First Precinct Plaza. Neither Judy nor Nick had transportation of their own, and they were both fine with that. Both of them preferred to use the public transportation around town, and had decided long ago to go together each morning to work.

Today they had made only one slight change. This time they met right at the station platform instead of their usual place on board after a quick trip to the fruit smoothie stand in the lobby. They both showed up in uniform, but whereas Nick wore the customary black and blue uniform for rookies, his young prey partner had decided to wear a new grayish black, tighter fitting uniform today. So tight it was showing off her feminine assets as evident as they were, to which he had made a few smug remarks, and earned himself a punch to the shoulder.

"Come on Nick, you know how much Clawhouser wants his new uniform designs to catch on," said Judy as she was hopping off the dirty floor of the metro train and onto one of the empty seats. Nick decided he was best remaining standing before her.

"Okay, okay carrots," laughed Nick, his green eyes filled with mirth. "But you should ask him whether he's modelling them for cop uniforms or stripper costumes," he continued playfully.

Judy rolled her bright purples eyes at his statement taking the moment to quickly scan over his own uniform. She looked with her eyes while raising her brow a bit as she started feeling a bit flushed as she noticed how well it fit his relatively built frame. Nick was not that bad looking, true he was no Adonis, but his build and posture were well defined, he had a definite muscle tone, and he pulled off black oh so well.

Nick had to stop his reminiscing for a minute to mentally note he had no idea if that was what Judy had been thinking, but it made him feel better to imagine it that way. Now back to his flashback.

The tram just then entered a rickety patch, with the train bumping up and down a bit more then was usual or expected. One large bump sending Judy tumbling off the seat. Luckily for her, Nick had been there to catch her in his arms. The two of them now pressed tight together. Her arms reflexively clasping around his neck as her face buried itself in his chest. meanwhile he gripped her tight with one paw while holding onto the handlebar even tighter. Shifting his stance so he could support her body with his own, Nick grunted with the strain of his muscles.

Both of them now blushed heavily as they stood there entwined. Nick gulping nervously to feel the rabbit girl clinging to him, tightening his arm about her, while Judy visibly blushed at the intimate contact between the two of them. The train finally balancing out, allowing Judy to quietly and calmly untangle herself from Nick. She sat back down on the seat, doing her best at avoiding eye contact with her partner and friend.

Nick was no better, he couldn't even bring himself to look at her. Too afraid that if he did, the feeling of arousal and happiness he had felt to have her arms around him, might actually come back. Judy was his best friend and his partner. They had a good friendship and a professional relationship. He couldn't screw either of those up, not for him and certainly not for her. So he quickly put down the creeping thoughts that he didn't really understand--or want to--seeing them as a threat to that stability.

They had gotten off as usual just a few streets away from the FPP, neither of them really talking about what had just happened on the tram. Together they passed through the open doors of the precinct passing by a slew of officers, perps, and civilians, everyone mingling about the expansive front lobby.

Both Nick and Judy headed straight for the front desk where a rather chubby cheetah sat, polishing off a thick pizza slice. As soon as he caught sight of them, the cheetah nearly choked on his food as he gave an exclamation of joy.

*Cough* *cough* "Hey Nick..Judy, good morning...OH SWEET GOODNESS Judy, you're wearing my new design!" He squealed, giggling uncontrollably as he spun around in his chair.

Judy wore a bright smile and delivered a smug look to Nick, as the fox simply gave an eye roll, while forming a wide grin on his face, as they were greeted by their friend and colleague.

Judy hopped on up to the front desk, "Morning Clawhauser, about the uniform...i love it! It's got a great sense of style, but it's a bit too tight, which makes it uncomfortably...revealing."

Clawhauser nodded, deeply invested in her criticism, taking out a pen and notepad. Writing with great detail, he listened to Judy as she listed her pros and cons for the new uniform, while Nick leaned against the front desk.

While the other two talked, the fox couldn't help but find his gaze drawn to Clawhauser's work station. As he looked it over, Nick thanked the stars that Judy was a stickler for a clean workplace and vehicle. As much as he loved the tubby cheetah, Nick could actually believe that something alive was growing out of the piled up pizza boxes, empty cereal bowls, and crumpled candy wrappers decorating the floor.

"Hmm all right, okay, those are some great suggestions and points, Judy, I'll work on that as soon as I get off shift," spoke Clawhauser. The cheetah gave the small rabbit a big hug, which she returned as best she could, before returning herself to her professional demeanor.

Judy beamed at Nick as she pulled away from the front desk, heading towards the bullpen, while Nick gave a quick good-bye wave to Clawhauser, who waved back before returning to finishing off his pizza.

Nick and Judy had arrived at the operations room just in time for the morning role-call. They quietly walked down the rows and benches to reach the front, just as the meeting was about to begin. Taking a seat (for they shared one together) at their place at the front, both of them prepared for the bosses daily allotment of tasks.

Chief Bogo exited his office in the side of the bull pen. A stack of files and papers under his arm, a steaming cup of coffee in his free hand, as he walked to the podium at the front of the room. The large water buffalo appeared rather hard and was as tough as they come. Armed with 400 pounds and more of muscle and a no-nonsense hard-case attitude. Despite his brooding demeanor, he was a knowledgeable officer and commander. Ever since becoming the new go to pair on the force, both Nick and Judy had been seeing a lot more of Bogo. Attending meetings and even training sessions with him. As he made his traditional way from his office to the podium, the rest of the officers including Judy and Nick gave him their customary pumped up greeting. Growls, hoots, and grunts erupted in the room, building in intensity and mounting a passionate rhythm.

Bogo slammed the folders down on the podium in his usual dismissal of their antics and settled his coffee beside them. Thus completing the daily ritual they followed every morning. Nick had often joked about how one day they should not do a single thing and see if the old buffalo butt noticed, it had gotten many laughs but as of yet no one had had the guts to actually try it.

"Alright, alright, settle down you pile of animals. Assignments today are going to be a bit different then usual. We have a new drug on the street. At a first glance it appears to be nothing but catnip, but it carries a kick like high class ketamine, it's highly addictive, and too much can fry the brain like a hippo in a dry heat."

The cape buffalo put on his spectacles as he continued, scanning his itinerary sheet.

"We also have a new predator crime gang on the streets, they call themselves the Brothers of Nine, they've been harassing prey shopkeepers and citizens all week, heavy into extortion, arson, bribery, intimidation, threatening violence, committing violence, yada yada you all get the idea," he trailed off.

Many of the officers looked at each other with serious frustration, crime gangs were a bitch to deal with, especially predator based ones. They created a lot of distrust and problems with the public and larger predator officers. No one liked to talk to a predator after being accosted by one.

"Okay assignment time," began Bogo, picking up several files. "I thought today we would start differently and go from the bottom up. Wilde, Hopps, front and center!" As they had hopped up to his podium, the captain continued. "Here are the files. I want you two to patrol the border of Tundra town and Downtown, keep an eye out for any Brothers of Nine members. They've been conducting a lot of muggings up in that area."

Judy grabbed the files and handled them over to Nick as the two officers popped off their chair. Saluting the chief Nick started out first giving Judy enough time to state, "We'll not let you down sir," before joining him.

"Watch yourself you two!" Hollered Bogo from still inside the bullpen. "These aren't flower thieves or road hogs this time!"

Hopping into their squad car, Nick waited for Judy to catch up. While waiting, he fixed himself a conformable position in his seat. The chirpy rabbit hopped into the drivers seat. She was looking for the keys only to not find them underneath the top mirror. Frantically pawing around, searching for the keys, in the sides of the chair, or under the seat, her large ears swiveled as they caught the sound of jingling. Turning her head, she came face to fist with Nicks paw, the golden keys dangling from a key-chain hooked over one of his fingers.

"Looking for these carrots?" He asked with glee, pulling his hand back and dodging her spontaneous grab for them. "Uh Uh, going to let me drive this time?"

She glared at him, before giving him a smug smirk, "Sure, just as long as you are responsible for washing her down and cleaning her out once we get back."

Nick's smile faded as the prospect of staying later than usual reared it's head. "That's not fair Jude, you know how much I've wanted to test out my new bathtub."

"Life's not fair fox, and we all have to face consequences for our decisions...so ask yourself are you sure you want to drive today?" Grinned Judy, her smug smirk rearing it's head with vengeance, loving the way Nick scowled as he handed her the keys reluctantly.

"But I thought," He started only for Judy to give him her paw, the young rabbit using the international gesture for 'save it.'

"You think too much Nick, and when you're thinking too much, you cannot be counted on to be in the game. And no game, no driving," responded Judy, making sure she didn't sound to overly patronizing knowing how much he hated that.

Nick slouched in his seat, fastening his seat-belt slowly and acting like the kid who found out they missed christmas, or something equally as sad.

"Cheer up Nick, you can drive next week, if your good, okay," she playfully jabbed, loving the deadpan look he gave her. "Aww come on am i that bad a driver?" She asked, revving up the squad cars engine and backing it out of the lot. As she pulled them out the squad car nearly hit the parked squad van beside it, the screech of brakes echoing in the police lot as Judy with a blush on her face sheepishly chuckled, before putting the car in proper reverse.

Nick smiled at her, the tables having turned before returning his eyes to the road, the squad car pulling into the busy streets of the city.

"I don't even have to say a word."

Judy just groaned profusely.

---

---

They arrived right at the corner of where Tundra Town met the Downtown district. It also happened to be the bottom of the slope that led up to the summit of Mount Eden. The contrast of the snow and ice compared to the dry pavement and asphalt was an interesting sight to behold. It was one that Nick had seen his fair share of given his time in the city, but one for which Judy was still not used too.

"Wow, that's amazing isn't it Nick?" Judy asked completely in awe of the view. Pulling the vehicle into a full stop by a parking meter on the sidewalk.

Nick flashed her a quick grin, "Was about the first ten times i saw it, but by the fortieth we sort of lost the spark from our relationship."

Judy laughed at that, before hopping out of the squad car. Pacing around to the passenger side she knocked on his window, waiting for the fox to lower it for her. Once he had she passed him one of their two personal radios, having already fastened the other to her belt and uniform.

"I'll do a quick sweep of the streets, ask some of the shop keepers if they have any info, meanwhile you wait here and watch anyone who comes by, okay partner?" Judy gave him a reassuring grin which he returned.

"Sure Judy, just watch your back, if anything happens call me and I'll be right there," he said hiding his nervousness in the back of his throat.

Judy patted his leg in reassurance before leaving him in the squad car and beginning to walk down the sidewalk of the nearest street corner. She would rather have Nick with her on this, but couldn't risk it. If any of these shopkeepers had been mugged or encountered the gang, a predator would be the last thing they wanted to see, let alone talk to.

She continued her stroll down the street, her ears swiveling around like radar while her sharp eyes passed over everything: analyzing and scanning for trouble. She suddenly found herself paused in front of a manicure parlor. The parlour was showcased with neon lights, reading, Sals, Paws and Hair Salon. Peering through the clear glass wall panes, she caught sight of a rather well dressed fox leaning on the cashiers counter, a beaver manicurist handing him a wad of bills.

Her police sense flashed as she made her way into the shop, deciding she was going to play this one very restrained and cautiously.

'Cheese and Crackers girl, what is with you and Fox's in shops', she thought to herself, entering the store, hearing the bell above the door chime as the it flew open.

Both the fox and the beaver looked at her before going back to their business. The fox shifted his stance however, to face her, his outstretched paw still there filling with more bills. The fox was tall and lanky, but built more around the chest. He wore a silver colored vest with brass buttons under a tan colored overcoat, with a green tie over a black cropped shirt, and a short brimmed grey hat with a red ptarmigan feather in it's brim. He was wearing a pair of loose fitting grey pants and both his foot-pads were were covered by red fur, not traditional black, and sprouted well decorated spats, fitted with golden lace, and silver buttons.

Flashy style wasn't the only thing this fox had going on about him, he also had a tattoo under his left eye. The intricate design--like coiling snakes encircling around his eye socket--was burned into the fur, while on the other side of his red muzzle there were scattered splotches of dark fur. Both his eyes were ice blue, like frozen pearls that starred back at her with the utmost cool.

As she got closer she was surprised to see that the fox before her bore many striking similarities to Nick. They had the same red coloring, even the white fur about the chest and neck. The same build, the same well brushed tail (although this fox had a golden band around his) the only major difference being the fox's black tipped hand-paws and ears (which cutely were poking out of the hat).

"Can I help you officer?" Asked the beaver, showing no visible signs of stress or fear, in fact he wasn't really looking like he was in danger at all.

"Yes, we've had some reports of...gang members in the area, making trouble for the shopkeepers, we're just asking around if anyone... knows...anything?" She cautiously replied, her eyes flicking over to the fox, who was still staring at her.

The beaver had to think for second but the fox gave a quick snort of laughter, making Judy suspect he had caught on...'damn he's swift,' _she thought. '_I_ guess as swift as a fox.'_

"Eh there was some trouble a few days ago. Some wildcat punk tried to make us give him protection money, but our owner took...care of it," said the beaver. Still handing over bills into the foxes palm, a large tight wad forming in the black tipped paw.

"And whose your owner?" Inquired Judy, bringing out her note pad and pen and taking a stand-by stance.

"That would be me, soft ears," answered the fox, closing his fist about the tight wad of bills and standing away from the counter.

No longer slouching, the fox was able to rise to his full height, not that much bigger than her but still considerably taller than most rabbits and even a little bigger than Nick. The fox strolled towards her, his keen eyes never leaving hers, and she to her credit stood her ground. Now that they were face to chest, she had to crane her head up a bit to look at him with a glare.

"First off, you do not know me intimately enough to call me soft ears, and second...you are?" She hotly growled.

"Whoa! rabbit's got some fire in her. The names Edgar...Edgar Zorro, and I own this place, Sal over there is just my most trusted manager." The foxes voice was as cool as his eyes, but it was also very young sounding. This fox was not the same age as Nick, maybe five to six years his younger.

"What did you do with the wildcat who tried to extort your store," pressed Judy, tapping one of her long feet impatiently.

"Knocked his head about then threw him out. Could have killed him, but i didn't want to deal with his friends," replied the fox.

Judy nodded as she wrote that down, however, she kept tapping her foot. She ceased writing things down as she all of a sudden noticed how the fox's gaze had shifted to her foot. She consequently stopped tapping as well and looked at him awkwardly.

"Did you know officer, that your foot is absolutely perfect?"

She stared at him, her eyes narrowing as her mind went ballistic, "What?"

Edgar crouched down before her, nodding towards her foot, "May I?" He inquired.

Not really sure what was going on as the whole situation went way off manual, Judy nodded slowly, interested to see where this was going.

The fox gently took her long slender foot in his paws, giving the appendage a quick tight squeeze. He began stroking a claw over the underside and over the top of her foot, cradling it in his own paws. He could obviously feel the twitches and the shudders she made, as he hit those particular sensitive spots.

"Yes, just as I expected, good structure, soft features, beautiful indent, but worn and sore. Very common with you cops, let alone you rabbits...tch tch no proper care for your feet."

He still held her foot, one of his paws tracing the length of her foot paw, as if he was taking her measurements in his head. His fox paws were gentle but firm, his grip showing no sign of letting up.

"Yeah, you'd be surprised officer how many furs don't take care of their foot-pads," continued Edgar. "We've seen em all ain't we Sal?" droned on the fox, swiveling his eyes back towards his employee.

"Sure thing boss, furs with foot problems, pulled or broken bones they weren't even aware of. We even had that Aardvark in, who got his foot stuck in a toaster," chimed in the beaver, having gone back behind the counter.

"You see officer...?" Inquired Edgar.

"Hopps...Judy Hopps," replied Judy, still a bit out of it, and trying to ignore the sensation of the foxes paws on her feet. The sensations were bringing back quite a few awkward memories. Nick had helped give her a paw rub once while they were hanging out after work, but she had ended it abruptly. Mainly because it had been so good she had started to think of very naughty thoughts no friend should think about another, or doing to another, or doing in front of another...oh gawd, those fox fingers were golden.

"Well, officer Hopps, you see this isn't just a manicure parlor, it's also a paw studio. One I have been using to help treat any and all foot-related issues. It's quite popular, done only by appointment, but if you ever want to take us up, let me know alright?" Setting her foot down his face showing great reluctance, Edgar raised himself up and gripped the rabbits shoulder reassuringly.

With his distracting paws gone, she managed to regain her wits and shrugged his paws off her shoulder, "Paws off sir...and we'll see about that, when i'm not on duty." Judy have a hot growl (which was very non-rabbit like) at that to make sure he got the message.

Edgar gave a chuckle at the emphasis she had put into that last bit, flashing her a grin...it was insane how much he reminded her of Nick, especially in how he grinned in that same way, it made her want to punch him hard in the face.

Judy decided that this fox was not one of their targets and was just about to ask if the fox could tell her where the wildcat had gone, when as she stepped forward still a bit light headed from the paw treatment, she accidentally slipped on the floor.

She was going for quite a tumble only for strong paws to wrap around her waist and before she knew it she was looking up into that smirking handsome face once again. That face which reminded her so much of her partner and friend. So much so that Judy had to gulp and entertain a thought she had been fighting for quite a while now.

Standing there with her in a dip like stance almost as if they were dancing in a ballroom, the fox looking down at her as he kept her from hitting the floor, the moment captured like a still from an old romance film. So of course that was the moment the door bell chimed and both fox and rabbit turned their heads to find Nick starring straight at them, looking like a kid who thought he was going to the candy store only to find it was actually the dentists.

Judy's heart leapt into her throat, opening her mouth but nothing could come out, not even a stammer, while she felt the paws of the fox holding her suddenly tighten.

"Hey...Nick," stated Edgar sheepishly.

Nick was quiet for a minute, his eyes still wide and centered on Judy's, and Judy couldn't look away from the grimace he held as he continued to look at them.

"Edgar...still sweeping women off their feet without their consent?'

"Hahahaha, no this is just a misunderstanding Nicky, the lady tripped, i simply caught her," chortled Edgar.

"Then you might want to let her down wouldn't you say?" Replied Nick sternly.

Edgar nodded and gently lowered her to the ground, allowing the rabbit to hop up on her own. Once back on her feet she turned to Nick and finally found something to say.

"Nick why are you here. Shouldn't you be in the car?" She asked, feeling a bit ashamed and embarrassed that he had caught them in such a position.

"Well, you've been in here for fifteen minutes, I thought something may be up," he answered her, his stern gaze still not leaving her own.

He didn't mention to her that her radio had been on the whole time, the talk button pressed agaisnt her tight uniform. nor could he let her know why he was so angry or cross with her. Nick trusted Judy and if she agreed it was as Edgar said it was, then that was good enough for him. However, part of him was still for some reason very cross with her.

"Oh sorry Nick, Edgar and I we're just discussing some trouble he's had with the gang."

"Yeah i bet he has some trouble...still playing with feet huh Edgar?" Quipped Nick, ignoring Judy as he was walking about the parlor's front lobby.

"You know all to well I got a diverse portfolio Nick, but hey, hear you're out of the Popsicle business?"

Nick smiled at that coming up to the other fox, the two looking so different and yet so similar beside one another.

"Yep, I got a new career now," answered Nick flashing his badge at the other fox.

"I had heard rumors you had started to wear blue, but i was never one for rumors," grinned Edgar. "But oh well, good for you. Your mother must be really proud eh?"

Nick stopped smiling at that and scowled, "You still see my mother?" He asked coldly.

"We keep in touch, haven't heard from her in a while though," answered Edgar holding his paws up in defense.

Nick just shook his head and turned to leave, only for Judy to put a paw to his chest holding them there. "Please sir, before we go you mind telling us which direction that wildcat went?"

The well dressed fox nodded as if thinking to himself, then pointed down the road towards an large open alleyway between several buildings. "He scurried down that way, last time i saw him. Have no idea what happened to him after that."

Judy smiled and pushed Nick along quite sharply, "Thank-you very much sir, have a good day." The fox and rabbit exited the store, but not before Nick grimaced as Edgar replied to Judy's good day with his own.

"What was that all about Nick? Asked Judy sternly, practically having to hop to keep up with the pissed off fox, who was setting a brisk pace.

"What was up with me? What was up with you? The first thing I see when I come in there is you in his arms? Growled Nick, not understanding himself why that bothered him so much. They had been in each other's arms that morning, on the train...of course that had been an accident. _'So was this' _his mind tried to warn him.

"It was an accident, I slipped and he simply caught me, but regardless of that, how do you two know each other, and why did he say he knew your mother?" Judy confirmed his nagging thoughts as she desperately tried to keep up with her haughty partner.

Nick stopped so suddenly and without warning, that Judy crashed into his back. Walking around to stand in front of her partner the rabbit gave a displeased sigh. Her left foot began tapping as she crossed her arms and glared at him, not moving until he answered her straight.

"I told you Judy, I know everyone. Especially Edgar Zorro. The problem is you don't seem to know who he is." Said Nick calmly.

"He's a weird manicure parlor owner, either that or a pimp. What else?" Said Judy sarcastically, stopping when she saw Nick shaking his head. "He's not a manicurist?"

"Nope, try lieutenant in the Zorro syndicate crime family...chief lieutenant, as a matter of fact."

Judy's jaw dropped, even out in Bunny Borough they knew the name Zorro. Judy cursed herself as to why she hadn't thought anything about it though when the fox had mentioned it.

The Zorro crime family was not only feared, it was respected. They were not as violent or as bloodthirsty as some of the other gangs and crime families out there, but they were smart. They used legitimate business to run their whole operation, which was great for them, because it meant the cops could never put anything on them. Anything profited off illegal means was then protected by or funneled through the legitimate businesses, and made untraceable. Meanwhile it's members were not blood thirsty or overly violent, and often the illegal things such as violence, intimidation and force were not fatal. That being said they had their moments, such as the disappearance of a former mayor of Zootopia and the Good Friday massacre where the Antonio, rat crime family who had operated out of the Savannah-End shopping mall, ended up being found trampled and crushed to death in their own store.

"You mean he's one of them?" She gasped. "And how the heck do you and your mom know him?"

"We knew each other back in the day. That parlor is his legitimate business, but he often brought me in to pass information back and forth between his less then upstanding clientele. He also knows my mom somehow, neither of them have ever said exactly how. He helped her out with some payments a few times, but nothing serious."

The two of them neared the alley, slowing down and taking either side of the walls before they entered the grimy alleyway. Cautiously looking around both officers began to creep forward slowly.

"Do you really think anything is down here?" Asked Nick.

"Don't know but for all we know, there could be clues, or maybe a hideout, never can tell in these alleys," replied Judy forcefully, not wanting to hear Nicks bellyaching. "You just don't want to get your fur dirty, admit it?" She joked.

"That's because it's quite fine fur, and dirt and grime, not too mention whatever else is in this alley is not good for it!" answered Nick hotly.

Aside from several strewn about bags of garbage and a few dumpsters nothing seemed to really stand out. The two of them stopped by the last dumpster, Nick leaning against it has he tried to wipe some dirt off his foot-pads.

"Do you smell that?" Asked Judy, her nose burning as something foul and decaying wafted over her.

"Carrots we're in a dark alleyway, expect to smell something...argghhh oh gawww that is foul!" cried Nick as a horrible smell finally hit his sensitive nose.

"What is that?" inquired Judy figuring it must be coming from under one of the dumpsters. Reaching forward she pushed the dumpster Nick was leaning on, finding it moved as it was revealed to be on wheels. The dumpster flew away as Nick fell backwards, losing his perch and landing right into the decaying remains of a body.

Judy's eyes widened as she put a paw over her mouth, trying not to lose her lunch at the site of the decomposing corpse, or from the smell, or from the fact her partner was now drenched in corpse juice and decayed body parts.

Nick for his part was being quite the trooper, he took it all in stride, brave and unwavering, holding in his panic like a man, and at this point in the flashback Nick had to stop lying to himself.

In truth he had screamed, and wailed and cried, and thrown up, and had spent a good deal of time running up and down the alley, while Judy called in the hearse and forensic teams. While the team worked on the body and crime scene, Nick sat back at their squad car, a blanket about his shoulders and a cup of hot coffee in his paws, he still smelled, the team hadn't allowed him to shower or wash up until they had taken enough samples.

Judy walked up to him, "So i think we found our wildcat," She said.

"Yep, there's some of him here, and here, and oh look at this clue detective, right here," said Nick coldly, gesturing to various parts of his body.

Judy grimaced, looking away from him. "So Edgar?" She tested.

"Probably, but we'll most likely never be able to prove it," muttered Nick.

"Well, at least we've learned one thing," said Judy hopping up beside him. "The Zorro family and these Brothers of Nine are not friends."

"Then at least we'll have something to put in the report for today," growled Nick. "Or do you think i should also add in the part where you were laying in the crime bosses arms?"

Judy scowled and furrowed her brow, glaring at Nick, "Dammit Nick stop this, it was nothing. Why is it such a big deal for you?

"Because Edgar didn't deserve to touch you, I DID!" He cried out, suddenly glad that none of the forensic teams or other officers were close enough to hear his outburst.

Judy looked at him wide eyed. Shock melted over her face as they sat there. Not saying a word as he seemed to desire to continue.

"Seeing you like that with him, was painful. Not because of what you were doing, but because he was the one holding you like that, not me..." the fox trailed off realizing too late that he had said that out loud.

Before Judy could say anything one of the forensic teams, a skunk with gas mask strolled up to them.

"So we're all good here, the lab has finished up and the body is being moved to the morgue, you're free to go and...get cleaned up." He emphasized the last part before turning to walk back to the crime scene.

"Thanks a ton," muttered Nick thinking the skunk was an odd one to talk.

Judy still had shock on her face, but she quickly recovered. Lowering her eyes, not meeting her partners face.

"Hey Nick, why don't we drop you off at your place so you can get washed and then I'll take the car back to base, just make sure to note the quitting time okay."

"Er-well, okay...fine," Nick droned, wondering if Judy had even heard his declaration before.

"Hey Nick," she chimed at him, tossing something at him which he caught on reflex. Looking down to see he had the squad cars ignition and trunk keys in his palm.

"You drive."

She had heard all right.

---

Back to now lying in his tub, Nick couldn't help but repeat the day over and over. Judy had dropped him off a few hours ago, neither of them had said a word coming back or even good-bye once he had stepped out of the car. He could hit himself with how stupid he had been to say those things out-loud to her. Or at least he would have hit himself, if this water wasn't so relaxing that he could barely move.

He had showered three times upon first entering his apartment, washing off all traces of dead gang member from his fur and body. He had then pilfered his fridge for some cheese, crackers, a turkey sausage (turns out turkeys are eatable livestock everywhere) and a cool beer. Tucking away the small meal, he then went to draw his bath and test out the tub.

Now he was here, soaking and wondering what changes this turn of events meant for his relationship with Judy. Laying there on the waters surface he closed his eyes, listening to the jazz music off the radio. The tunes were bale to sooth his worries and thoughts. Just listening to the cool melodies, sad undertones, and ringing annoyance...wait what?

His eyes snapped open and he scrambled upwards in the tub, submerging himself up to his neck, as he craned his ears. There it was again the ringing of his doorbell, or more precise the buzzing sound from someone outside pressing the button again and again.

Nick hopped out of the bath, grabbing a rather large white towel and wrapping it about his waist. He hurried out of his bathroom and went for his door. Whoever was bothering him at this hour had better have a good explanation.

He opened the door snarling a viscous, "WHAT!" Only to come face to face with Judy, standing there in her civilian attire. His eyes snapped open as his mouth stood agape. He had just enough sense left to keep the towel secured about his waist.

She had stepped back at the ferocity of his greeting, but managed to clam herself down once she saw his eyes change from annoyance to shock.

"J-J-Judy, what are you doing here at this hour?" He asked in genuine surprise.

"I came by to talk about today...bad time?" she answered, her eyes flickering to his bare wet chest and the white towel covering the rest of his equally drenched and...bare body.

His expression turned from surprise to embarrassment, making sure he held the door open letting the rabbit girl come in. His cheeks were burning red under his red fur the whole time.

"Ughh just taking a bath to be honest," he offered.

"Sorry to interrupt that, I know how much you've wanted to try it out," Judy stated. Sitting on his sofa, clasping her small paws together in front of him she fidgeted nervously. Still not meeting the foxes eyes, or really any part of his toweled form.

"That's okay. So what's up Hopps?" He jokingly asked, loving the small smile that formed on her lips as he said that.

"Gosh you are so bad Nick, but i like that about you. You can make me laugh at the dumbest and crudest of things."

Nick shared her grin with one of his own, "Yeah that's me, a total riot. Now what's up there honey bunny?" He asked again.

Judy looked at him suddenly, her body language sombre and her eyes had gone strict and serious. She seemed to almost have trouble getting out what she wanted to say, but finally she simply swallowed and began.

"What you said today Nick, we need to really talk about it."

The foxes grin switched to a frown, and the feelings of creeping dread snaked their way into his chest and around his heart.

"O-O-Okay," he struggled out, his eyes now fixed to hers, the magenta purple vs the grass green.

"What you said was a bit shocking, probably for us both," started Judy, wiping a her paw over her ears which now were drooping behind her. "But i thought about it as I drove back to HQ, and I came to a sudden realization."

He nodded, thinking this was it, she's going to ask us to stop being partners, or friends, it's going to be too awkward for her.

"You're right."

'Hold on a second,' thought Nick, what? "Huh?" he gasped.

The Rabbit girl, nodded looking at him solemnly.

"When I was in Edgar's arms, even though there was nothing romantic about it, I couldn't help but feel a stir. Something I had been holding back in myself for ages...it was the lure of being with a predator."

Nick did not like where this was going but he was too shocked and worried to interrupt his friend. He just stood there trying to not look like an idiot, and probably failing miserably.

"It was there when I saw Edgar but, while that excitement was from him touching me, it wasn't him I wanted to be doing it. The one I wanted holding me like that was...you."

Nick's heart just about exploded at that moment, stepping back as Judy hopped off his sofa and strode right up to him. Nick backed up until only the cold and sturdy wall met his wet back. He looked down at her, right up against him now, gazing into his eyes, and him gazing right back. Both seeing in the others eyes, the same genuine care and that spark of something else they had both ignored and set aside. Till now.

"Nick I'm going to do something now that I've been wanting and dreaming about doing for the longest time. So please don't try and stop me." said the rabbit girl bringing her paws up to his face.

The fox nodded, trailing one of his paws up along her shoulder and over her neck, "I think I'll join you," he whispered softly.

Leaning up on her toes as he lent his head down, fox and rabbit kissed. Turning their heads so their muzzles fit together, both furs leaned into and supported the other. It was the first kiss they had shared, soft and delicate, and intimate. Nicks paws cupped her head gently, one paw gripping and stroking softly at one of her ears. While her soft paws landed on his face holding his head still and his lips firmly to hers. Nick didn't even care that his towel had fallen off revealing his body to his partner and friend, her eyes were not there, they were too busy staring into his.

Judy held them there, the kiss not to forceful or overpowering but carrying a power of its own all the same. She could feel the warmth from his body, the pull of his tongue and the poking of...oh dear. Blushing as she experienced the firm press of his red tipped arousal, but finding she didn't mind, nor did she mind that Nick was currently naked right now.

Nick caught on however, and gently broke their kiss feeling content and happy, while also embarrassed and modest all at the same time. "I should probably get some clothes on huh?" He asked sheepishly, starting to head to his bedroom, only for one of her paws to grab his.

"Or...perhaps you can finish that bath of yours, with some company?" She offered.

Nick gulped and had to take a second to process what she had just offered him. He had been having dark fantasies about this for a long time, things he had thought of only in the shadows of his mind or when he was surfing the internet for porn (hey everyone does it). Now though he was going to get a chance at fulfilling some of those thoughts. Thoughts he would never have entertained and or told to her in person.

"Umm, you sure about that?

Judy just squeezed his paw even tighter, having not let go."Yes, Nick, I'm very sure."

He turned away from his bedroom and led her back towards the bathroom, not really believing this was actually happening. Mentally chiding himself as he found his erection starting to grow as his mind went wild with the erotic possibilities.

Once they had arrived in the bathroom, Nick stepped to the side and went over to the sink. Steadying himself at the sink he quickly turned on one of the taps and took a lap of cold water. Turning around just in time to see Judy remove her shirt, revealing she hadn't bothered to put on a bra today. The foxes eyes widened as he saw her shirtless.

Judy wasn't badly proportioned, for a rabbit at least. Her breasts were actually quite plump and round, her pink colored nipples erect through the fur. He was still staring as she shimmied out of her jeans and underwear, bending over to pick them up and showing off her pink slit. Nicks claws digging into the sinks porcelain as his mouth opened and his tongue hanged out at the sight.

Judy was beautiful, grey and white furred from ears to toes, well built but also still evidently feminine, especially in the hour shaped glass hips and the soft paws. Her fluffy little tail flickered as he now could see she was on equal footing with himself now. She seemed to admire his frame and looks, standing there handsome in his red and white fur, and strong chest, and beautiful green eyes and black paws.

Folding her clothes and putting them in the corner she turned back to her fox, looking bashful, curling her head into her neck as she held her paws front of her.

He couldn't help but smile at her modesty, she finally seemed to realize that he had been naked the whole time she had been there. Walking over to her he gently cupped his paws around her shoulder and held her naked body to his, loving the shudder he felt ripple through her shoulders at their bare contact. She gasped at the feeling of his erection now nearly fully formed, pressed against her fluffy stomach but also felt happiness at finally feeling herself intimately connected to her friend and soon to be lover.

Climbing into the tub Nick held out his arms and picked up Judy, lifting her in the bath with him. If the water was high for him it was definitely high for her, so he kept a firm hold of her, holding her to his side. Her legs and foot paws wrapped around his middle. Both sighed at the feeling of the still warm water on their bodies, Judy burying her head into Nicks neck, giving him a playful bite.

"Hey there carrots which one if us is the predator here?" Asked Nick laughing at bit at the smart throb in his neck.

"Not you that's for sure...aren't predators supposed to take their prey? She replied smugly.

Nick growled back at her hoisting her up and positioning himself at her slit, "Thanks for reminding me," he said. Right before dropping her onto his erection.

His cock pushed up inside the tight rabbit slit, finding no barrier, and sinking about halfway before encountering resistance. His growl and her yip carried throughout the apartment. She laid her head on his shoulder breathing heavily as she felt the coned shaped fox meat fill her moist cavern, her paws gripping his shoulders her little claws biting deep into his fur and skin.

Nick growled as he felt the tightness of his lover, the sting of her buck teeth and her rabbit claws on his skin. Her small bunny cunny fitting tight but fine along his red hard shaft. He was actually surprised at how easily she had slid in.

"So not a Virgin eh, my sweet honey bunny? Bit of a slut back home," he jokingly prodded at her, yelping as he felt her claws and teeth bite once more into his skin.

"Lenny Lapinsworth, twelfth grade, right after soccer practice. He was just so sweaty and hot looking I couldn't help myself, "She shivered between breaths. "But, he had nothing on this. Just shoved it in, broke my hymen, a few thrusts and then bam. You haven't even thrusted yet and I'm set to explode!"

Nick was proud of that, glad that if he wasn't her first he was at least going to be the more memorable for her. Lifting her up with his paws he brought her back down, her moan drowned out by his bark as she fell even further on his sex stick this time.

He started repeating the process, while she did the only thing she could. Holding him tight she began a routine of undulating her hips, squeezing her vaginal muscles every-time he hilted. This continual process of thrust and squeeze built up tons of pleasure for both of them, Nick humping upwards now, flexing his leg and back muscles, holding her close to his chest.

Judy moaned at the feeling of her fox lovers cock hitting her pleasure points over and over, the feelings driving her wild. Her hard nipples and breasts pressed against his strong white chest, the water of the tub splashing back and forth at the movement of their ministrations of love. His hips were now thrusting upwards, causing his cock to strike her at different angles one particular spot making her practically scream. Her g-spot discovered Nick started to angle his hips to keep hitting that area, realizing they had only a matter of time before the water started to take away her pleasure. "It's gonna get really dry soon," he grunted in warning to her. "Hold on."

Judy was nearing her release, her feelings of pleasure and her feelings for Nick helping to make everything she could feel seem so much better. as he warned her baout the possible discomfort, she felt a wave of intense love for his care and consideration. Kissing his neck and chin, stroking her paws over his chest she wanted to feel more than just his cock, she wanted to feel more of love, and his heart.

Nick was only too happy to give her all three, thrusting away as his paws went to her back stroking it softly. While, his other paw reached down between the joining of his body to hers, flickering at the little red nub that had popped out between her folds.

She closed her eyes as her bunny bark rang loud yet short as she buried her face into his chest to muffle any more screams. Nick only smiled, content with bringing his partner pleasure, as he gently pinched and fondled her sensitive clit.

Finally they had entered the last stretch, Nick barely able to hold himself back as he started jack hammering into her, fondling her clit and biting into her shoulder to avoid deafening her with his own near cries of feral passion.

His balls were feeling so heavy, and aching, he could practically feel the hot seed inside bubbling and preparing for their assault. His knot had slowly formed during the lovemaking and now smacked at her entrance. Nick didn't plan to make her take it tonight though. It was not really something you asked a first timer to take, and definitely not if you were a gentlemen. So he kept it outside of her, hips still pumping away.

"P-p-put your arms around my neck Judy," he asked her, his voice strained as he tried to hold back the pleasure and urge to ram her full of fox knot.

She complied, herself barely conscious from the pleasure and wondering when Nick was going to let them both go? She wanted to come with him for their first time together.

Now with her supporting herself around his neck, Nick was able to lower the paw not playing with the little rabbit clit, and instead formed a lock around his own knot, planning to simulate a tie. As his hips crashed into hers for the last time he suddenly squeezed his knot hard. Shoving himself up into her and holding himself there, he expertly strummed her clit like a guitar string.

Both furs screamed as they came together. Judy clenching all around the hot fox meat inside of her, as she scrunched her face and nose hard. Her eyes going cross eyed as she came. Squirting all over the cock inside of her and adding her own contribution to the tub.

Nick howled in turn as his red fox spear shot his seed into his love bunny in long heavy spurts. Hot fox semen blasting into her womb and painting her vagina white, while his balls emptied and his cock throbbed in overly sensitive pulses.

Holding Judy now with both paws, her own wrapped tight around his neck, her cheek pressed to his, her eyes closed, his barely open, the two lovers slid into the tub. Dousing themselves in the water Nick brought them both back up, leaning against the side he contemplated how this was the second time today he was holding her so tightly. Still stuck inside her and despite being still somewhat hard, Nick was just content to lie against the side of the tub, holding his lover to his chest. Neither of them feeling like doing anything else even as the water started to cool off.

"That was great Nick," whispered Judy, cuddling herself harder against her fox lover.

"Yeah, it was sweetheart," answered Nick, holding her just as tight, leaning his head over to gently lick the spots on her shoulders and neck where he had bitten her.

"What do you thinks going to happen now?" She asked lazily.

"I don't know, it's definitely against the rules to date your partner, but that would mean we would have to break up the partnership." answered Nick, not really liking that option. He cared about Judy and wanted to be able to protect her when she needed it...he couldn't trust another fur to do that the same as he could.

"Maybe we can wait for a bit, then decide what to do from there huh?" Judy offered, reaching for one of his paws and entwining their fingers.

"Sounds like a plan," Nick finished for her.

"Oh Nick I have been wanting to say this for so long. I love you."

Lying there with his lover tight against him, and feeling more satisfied and happy then he had in a long time, Nick squeezed her paw back in support.

"I love you too Judy." Now and forever.