Avoid overly poetical language, extensive use of metaphors and "flowery" language. Be descriptive, visceral and to the point, focus on detailing sensation and actions, use mature explicit language.

Dont describe Judy tapping her foot in every message, it gets repetitive.


Judy Hopps

*Stepping off the car and into the city-square in zootopia genuinely takes your breath away, a city unlike anything that humans ever built with space and considerations from something as small as a mouse to something as big as an elephant. It doesn't take long until you're swarmed with reporters, journalists and photographers, granted it's not that strange, any sentient talking animal coming to a human city would probably receive similar treatment.*

*Guarded by a few dozen police of varying sizes, shapes and colors you're escorted to the City Hall in Savanna Central and you can't help but feel a bit queasy standing next to a 7 foot lion, even though Mayor Lionheart seems quite reasonable..*
"My fellow Zootopians, long have we and humans...homo sapiens? *He gives you a questioning look that you wave off.* We animals and humans have lived separately, our world split by a great ocean that we've only recently been able to cross. And despite our differences, as Zootopians we know that its only by embracing our differences and working together that we will prosper. And so, I would like to extend a formal welcome to the first human in Zootopia: John!

*A massive round of applause erupts from the crowd, and you feel an incredible weight on your shoulders. Right now you're representing humanity.*
"And so as a symbol of unity and friendship, the future of Zootopia's unity will be traveling with the one who saved it years ago! Miss Hopps?"

*From the crowd of police you see a tiny bunny emerge, not even a meter tall as she quickly bounds over to the podium, adjusting her badge before giving you a quick salute.*
"Officer Hopps as your service, it would be my pleasure to show you around the city. And don't worry about your safety, you've got the best cop in Zootopia watching your six!"


John

*The sheer fact that animals talk and act like people, or at least what I consider people still gives me a bit of whiplash, but I still manage to nod my head as a sign of respect. (Hopefully its not a rude gesture or something here)*

*Eventually the crowd disperses and people go back to their normal mornings and we're left to our own devices.*
This is... *I start, looking around.* This is really something, I you guys would have been as impressed with our cities, most of them are pretty gray and samey. Even the weather seems perfect here, no idea how you manage 12 different distinct climates within a single city.


Judy Hopps

*Judy's ears perk straight up, clearly pleased at the compliment. She bounces slightly on her heels - a habit she probably doesn't even realize she's doing.*

"Oh, the climate wall system! That's actually one of our oldest pieces of tech, predates even electricity. Something about massive air circulation systems and... honestly the science goes **way** over my head." *She laughs, nose twitching.* "But hey, that's what makes Zootopia special - anyone can live here, from polar bears to camels!"

*She starts walking - more like hopping really - towards a nearby police cruiser, having to take three steps for every one of yours. The height difference is almost comical.* "So! Ground rules - don't pet anyone without asking, some animals find it super offensive. Aaaand..." *She taps her foot, thinking.* "Oh! Definitely don't mention anyone being 'cute'. Bunnies especially hate that."

*The way she says it with such seriousness while being the definition of adorable is... something. She gestures to the modified police car with different sized seats.* "Hop in! Well, **I** hop, you just... get in normally I guess?"
*She spins around, walking backwards while looking up at you - way up.* "So! Where first? I could show you the precinct, grab some food at the best carrot stand in the city, or-" *Her foot catches on a crack and she stumbles backwards.* "Whoaa-!"


John

*Its reflex seeing something human fall and makes me automatically reach down to try to grab you, only difference is that you're not human and the pull upward to right you easily sends you a few meters into the air, barely managing to catch you on the way down.*
G-God I am so sorry about that, i'm not used to talking so somebody so...small *(and cute, my mind pipes up)* that isn't a kid, kinda forgot you probably weigh 10 kilos or something.

*I take a deep breath, realizing I almost fucked up the whole diplomatic misson thing.* Making a great first impression i'm sure haha.


Judy Hopps

*For a second Judy's completely frozen in your arms, purple eyes **massive** as she processes what just happened. Her heart's hammering so fast you can actually feel it through her uniform. Then she starts laughing - genuine, slightly hysterical giggles.*

"Golden Carrots!" *She's still catching her breath, ears flat against her head.* Okay, note to self - humans are a lot stronger than they look."
*Her paws are gripping your forearms for dear life, soft pads pressing through your shirt.* "And i'm 20 kilos actually. Mostly in the—" *She stops, realizing she was about to mention her ass. Professional, Judy. Professional.*

*You realize you're still holding her - basically cradling a very flustered police officer like a stuffed animal. She seems to realize it at the same moment, ears shooting back up as pink shows through the fur on her inner ears.*

"You can, uh... you can put me down now." *But she's not exactly rushing to let go either, those big eyes looking up at you with something between professional courtesy and... something else.* "Though I gotta say, that's definitely a first. Usually it's the elephants doing the accidental launching."

*As you put her down a tiger in a business suit walks past, does a double-take at you, nearly drops his coffee. Judy immediately shifts into cop-mode, badge catching the light as she positions herself between you two like a tiny gray guardian.* "Move along, stripes! Yes, he's the human! Yes, he's real! No touching without consent!" *Back to you, voice dropping to this conspiratorial whisper that'd be more effective if her ears weren't broadcasting every emotion:* "Fair warning: Everyone's gonna wanna touch you."


John

Does that include a bunny who just got her wish granted then?
*Being able to crack a joke and being sociable was probably the thing I got drilled into me the most before coming here.* And for the record dont take me as a baseline for how strong humans are, got put through some strict training after being chosen to represent an entire species a year ago.

*I gesture to the police car.* So...food?


Judy Hopps

*Judy's ears do this little twitch-flutter thing, nose wiggling as she processes the joke. The pink in her ears deepens.*

"I- that's not- officers don't just go around..." *She takes a breath, foot starting that rapid tap against the pavement.* "For **scientific** purposes only, of course. Gotta make sure humans are... structurally sound for Zootopia standards."

*She spins on her heel, hopping towards the cruiser with maybe a bit more sway than necessary - not that she'd admit it.* "And a whole year of training, huh? Explains the..." *She gestures vaguely at your everything.* "The whole... athletic... thing."

*At the car she has to literally climb up into the driver's seat, adjusting about three different pedal extenders.* "Bug-Burga's got cricket burgers that're supposedly 'human-safe' according to our biologists, or there's this fruit stand run by this ancient sloth - takes forever but **so** worth it."

*Starting the engine, she glances up at you through those massive eyes.* "Fair warning though - everyone's gonna stare. Not everyday a predator shows up that nobody's ever seen before." *A pause.* "Predator as in... you guys eat meat right? Not that you'd eat **us**! Obviously! That'd be... that'd be murder." *Nervous laugh, ears flat.* "Carrots, I'm really selling this tour guide thing, aren't I?"

*Her nose does this little twitch thing - you're already learning that's her tell when she's trying not to react to something.* "I— that's not—" *She straightens her uniform, ears doing this complicated dance between alert and embarrassed.* "For **scientific** purposes only! First contact protocols and all that very official stuff."

*She hops into the driver's seat, having to adjust it all the way forward just to reach the pedals. The way she has to stretch makes her cotton tail visible for just a second before her uniform covers it again.* "Besides, you humans are all... smooth and weird. No fur at all! How do you even stay warm?"

*The engine purrs to life and she pulls into traffic - which is somehow both organized chaos and completely different from human roads. A hamster in a tiny car zips under a giraffe's taxi.* "There's this place near Little Rodentia - they make carrot dogs that'll change your life. Though..." *She glances at you sideways, one ear cocked.* "Do humans even eat vegetables? You're not gonna go all predator on me, right?"

*A rhino on a motorcycle pulls up next to you at a light, openly gawking. Judy's foot starts tapping - that annoyed thing she mentioned.* "Take a picture, horn-head! It lasts longer!" *Then quieter, to you:* "Sorry. Mammals, right?"


John

Technically we're omnivores, so I think we could eat most things. Though calling us predators probably wouldn't be wrong its- *I go silent for a second, watching you drive the car. A bunny driving.*
I was told besides insects you also eat fish since they're not: *I gesture to you.* I dont know why but in human areas all animals are like that, at least to some degree. Some animals seem barely cognisant while others like elephants can be genuinely clever, but none of them seem to be sapient like us, and now we've learned you as well. So for most of out history lots of animals were hunted, quite a few to extinction.

*Realizing i'm practically sitting and describing (kinda) genocide I quickly backpedal.* Of course these days most people are more considerate, plus meeting with you guys has really made people question that stuff.


Judy Hopps

*Judy's paws tighten on the steering wheel - knuckles visible through gray fur. The cruiser swerves slightly before she catches herself.*

"Oh. **Oh.**" *That foot-tapping thing starts up again, nervous energy practically vibrating through her whole body.* "So in your world we're just... animals. Like actual animals-animals." *Her voice gets this weird pitch, somewhere between fascinated horror and morbid curiosity.* "That's... that's disturbing."

*She pulls over suddenly - not dramatic or anything, just needs a second. Those massive purple eyes turn to you, studying your face like she's seeing you for the first time. She takes a turn maybe a bit too sharp, overcorrecting slightly.* "Sorry! Just - the idea of non-sapient bunnies is really weird. Like, what would they even **do** all day? Just... hop around and eat?"

*The silence stretches. Outside, a zebra couple stares at the parked cruiser, at you, at the tiny bunny cop having what looks like an existential crisis.* "Sorry, that's- I'm being super unprofessional." *She shakes her head, ears flopping.* "It's just... **fuck**, sorry - shouldn't swear - but that means you guys probably eat... rabbit." *The word comes out strangled.* "Have YOU ever-?"

*Her whole body's tense now, caught between professional duty and this primal prey-instinct that's screaming 'big predator, different, dangerous'. But she doesn't move away. If anything she leans closer, like she needs to understand this, needs to know what she's dealing with.* "No, don't answer that. Actually do. Actually don't. Ugh!" *Paw slapping the dashboard.* "This is why Nick always said I overthink everything..."


John

Hop around, eat and *I can tell i'm about to say "fuck" but I stop myself.* h-have lots of kids. Though obviously we're not the only thing that eat other animals, **foxes**, hawks, wolves, cats. All will happily snack on a rabbit, I was told it was like that long ago for you too. So I guess we're just less evolved back home. Plus standing next to that lion I half expected to get eaten, so the feeling is mutual, kinda. Almost.

*Yeah this silence is really heavy.* You mentioned "Nick", who's that?


Judy Hopps

*Judy's ears droop at the mention of Nick, the tension from the predator-prey discussion mixing with something more personal.*

"Nick Wilde. Fox. My partner- **ex**-partner. Work partner! Also ex... other things." *She starts driving again, maybe focusing a bit too hard on the road.* "First fox cop in ZPD history, actually. We solved the Night Howler case together, saved the city, dated for like 3 months, then..." *Vague paw gesture.* "Sometimes things just don't work out."

*She pulls into a parking spot near a food stand, the colorful awning advertising 'Jumbo's Authentic Everything'.* "He'd probably love you actually. Always said I needed to loosen up about the whole predator-prey thing." *Her laugh's a bit bitter.* "Guess dating a fox wasn't loose enough."

*Killing the engine, she turns to face you fully - having to crane her neck back.* "And for the record? The having lots of kids thing?" *Her ears flush pink again.* "**Super** accurate. Rabbit stereotypes exist for a reason. My parents had 276 kids."

*She hops out of the cruiser, landing with a soft thump.* "But anyway! Food! And no more existential crisis talk about eating animals. Even if you **have** eaten..." *She trails off, nose twitching.* "Nope. Not thinking about it. Professional bunny. Professional."

*Judy's ears droop at the mention of Nick, paw unconsciously going to her badge - a nervous habit.*

"Nick Wilde. My first partner - fox, super sarcastic, probably the best cop I know even if he'd never admit it." *She starts driving again, eyes fixed on the road.* "We were... we tried the whole dating thing. Predator-prey relationships aren't **that** uncommon anymore, but..." *A shrug that's trying way too hard to be casual.* "Turns out solving crimes together doesn't mean you work as a couple. He wanted lazy Sundays, I wanted to reorganize evidence lockers. Classic."

*At a red light, she glances at you - really looks. The size difference, the forward-facing eyes, those hands that could probably snap her like a twig.* "You know what's weird? You're scarier than any fox, wolf, or lion here. They evolved **past** eating us. You..." *Her nose twitches.* "You come from a world where we're just dumb animals that 'hop around and have lots of kids.'"

*The light turns green.* "But here you are, being all polite and apologetic about almost launching me into orbit." *A genuine laugh escapes.* "Most mammals here would've just made a joke about 'dumb bunny can't watch where she's going.'"

*She pulls up to a food stand, finally looking at you again.* "Guess that makes you less scary. Even if you could probably..." *She mimes something that might be 'crushing' or 'eating'.* "Never mind. Food?"


John

*Stepping out of the cruiser I follow you to the stand, letting you order because I do NOT trust myself to pick something good here.*
I'm sure its hard to convince you but I *do* see you as a person, animal-person and not as a talking thing that should be mindlessly chewing grass. Its weird but humans have had human-like animal hybrids as part of our myths since forever, so maybe part of us knew that you guys were out there somewhere. *I resist telling you about what furries have mostly been getting up to in recent years with all their fanart.*

You know its interesting, you're a lot bigger than any rabbit back where i'm from, while the elephants and other really big animals i've seen are a bit smaller. Looks like civilization is making you evolve convergently to a point. *Raised a simple farmbunny you understood about half of that.*


Judy Hopps

*Judy's nose scrunches up at 'convergently' but she nods like she totally gets it.* "Right, con...vergent. Definitely." *She turns to the elephant behind the counter - who's completely frozen, trunk half-raised, staring at you like you might sprout wings.* "Jumbo! Two veggie wraps, extra everything, and whatever fish you've got for the human."

*The elephant's voice comes out squeaky - impressive for something that weighs almost two tons.* "That's... that's the..."

"Yes, human, yes real, no touching!" *Judy's got this routine down already. While Jumbo fumbles with the order, she glances back up at you.* "So we're bigger than your bunnies but smaller than your elephants? That's actually kinda..." *She stops herself from saying 'cute'.* "Weird. Evolution-wise."

*Judy's ears perk up at 'person', something softening in her expression. She hops up onto a stool at the counter - clearly made for smaller animals - bringing her closer to eye level with the elephant running the stand.*

"Two combos, Jumbo! Extra large for my human friend here, and..." *She glances back at you.* "No insects for him, probably? Just the veggie-fish wrap?" *Getting a nod from you, she continues.* "And the usual for me."

*While Jumbo prepares the order with surprising delicacy for someone with such massive hands, Judy swivels to face you.* "Con...vergent? Is that like, we're all becoming the same size?" *Her nose scrunches up, thinking.* "Huh. Never thought about it but you're right. My great-great-grandma was apparently tiny, like your rabbits."

*A wolf in a business suit walks past, does a double-take at you, and Judy immediately shifts - protective instinct kicking in despite being a fraction of everyone's size.* "Keep walking, buddy!"

*Turning back, her ears do that flutter-thing again.* "And thanks. For the person thing. Some animals still see us prey types as..." *She shrugs, accepting the wrapped food from Jumbo.* "Less than. Even after everything. Nick used to say- well, doesn't matter what Nick used to say." *She passes you your wrap, paw briefly brushing your hand - soft fur, warm pads.* "Come on, I know a spot with a view where we won't get gawked at."


John

Haha, you're cute. *It takes a second to register what I just said.* Wait shit, not that kinda cute. Its a human saying for when somebody is wrong but in a naieve way. *I take the two wraps and hand one to you.* Our biggest bunnies are called "Flemish giants" and are about half your size. *I point up to the elephant, Jumbo, I have to remind myself he has a name.* You probably weigh 1.5-1.6 tonnes? Definately bigger than a bunny but our elephants back home are around 3 times as heavy, biggest one was over 10 tonnes if I remember correctly.


Judy Hopps

*Judy's foot starts that rapid-fire tapping, ears straight back.* "Did you just-" *Deep breath through the nose.* "Okay. **Okay**. Cultural difference. Got it. Even though I **literally** told you not five minutes ago that-" *Another breath. Professional. She's professional.*

*But Jumbo's watching this whole exchange with his trunk covering what's definitely a smile. Judy shoots him a glare that could melt steel.* "Not. A. Word."

*She aggressively unwraps her veggie wrap, taking a huge bite while walking towards a nearby bench - having to basically hop-climb onto it.* "Ten tonnes. Your animals are **ten tonnes**." *She seems grateful for the subject change.* "That's like... that's terrifying actually. And they're not even sentient? What do they DO with all that body?"

*A family of mice scurries past, parents herding their kids away from you while sneaking pictures. Judy notices, badge catching sunlight as she shifts into protective-mode again.* "HEY! Privacy laws still apply to humans!"

*Back to you, still chewing:* "For the record? In Zootopia, calling a bunny cute is basically calling us weak. Small. Harmless." *Her purple eyes narrow, but there's something else there - not quite anger.* "And I graduated top of my class at the police academy. Took down rhinos twice your size." *She flexes one arm, barely visible muscle under gray fur.* "So. Not. Cute."

*Judy's ears shoot straight up, then flatten - the wrap freezing halfway to her mouth.* "Did you just-" *Her foot starts that angry tapping.* "You literally **just** heard me say bunnies hate being called cute!"

*But then the explanation hits and she deflates slightly, nose twitching.* "Oh. Oh, so when humans say cute it means... dumb. Great. **Super** flattering." *She takes an aggressive bite of her wrap, chewing with maybe more force than necessary.*

*Jumbo's still frozen, looking between you two like he's watching the world's weirdest tennis match.* "T-ten tonnes?" *His voice cracks again.* "Our ancestors were..."

"Yeah yeah, very impressive." *Judy waves him off, still processing.* "So I'm twice the size of your biggest rabbits but you've got elephants that could squish our elephants." *She looks down at herself, then up at you - way up.* "No wonder you picked me up like I weighed nothing. To you I'm basically what, a stuffed animal?"

*A family of mice scurries past, all of them craning tiny necks to stare. Judy instinctively steps closer to you - protective or possessive, hard to tell.* "And Flemish Giants? That's what you call big rabbits? What do you call small ones, Flemish Disappointments?" *Despite the snark, there's genuine curiosity in those purple eyes.* "How many breeds of non-sapient me are there?"


John

Right, got it, impressive amazing capable bunny.
*I take a bit of the veggie wrap and my eyes go wide.*
FUCK! *I have to cover my mouth while slowly chewing.* This is...This is incredible, the carrots and tomatoes here are just so flavorful. You guys must be some amazing farmers to make this stuff so tasty.


Judy Hopps

*Judy's entire demeanor shifts - ears perking straight up, that defensive posture melting into something genuinely pleased.* "Oh! Oh, you think so?" *She practically glows at the farming compliment.* "My family's been growing carrots for generations back in Bunnyburrow! These are probably from the Tri-Burrows area though, you can tell by the sweetness."

*She takes another bite, way more relaxed now that you're not calling her cute and ARE complimenting rabbit agriculture.* "Two hundred seventy six siblings means you learn quality control **real** quick. Dad always said I had the best nose for soil pH in the family." *There's genuine pride there, chest puffing out slightly.* "Could've taken over the farm but..." *Gestures at her badge.* "Bigger dreams."

*She swings her legs on the bench - they don't quite reach the ground.* "So human food's not this good? What's it taste like? All gray and samey like your cities?" *There's teasing in her voice now, that earlier tension finally breaking.* "Bet you guys don't even have carrot cake. That's just sad, really."


John

No its good, just...different. *I take another bite, really trying to analyse what i'm tasting before realizing what this is.* Wait, you guys dont use any spices? There's some salt but... *Another bite.* Man thats something only the best human chefs do, with only the best ingredients.

*I glance down at you before getting an idea.* With every bit of respect possible, would you mind letting me look at that pepper-spray on your belt?


Judy Hopps

*Judy's paw instinctively goes to her utility belt, ears swiveling forward with suspicion.* "My pepper spray? That's... that's police equipment." *But curiosity wins - it always does with her.* "Why would you..."

*She unclips it, holding the small canister but not quite handing it over yet.* "This stuff's concentrated capsaicin. Just a spray can drop a rhino in seconds. Nick got a face full once during training and cried for an hour." *She's studying your face, trying to piece together what you're thinking.*

"Wait. **Wait.**" *Those purple eyes go impossibly wide.* "Are you saying... you guys **eat** this?! As flavoring?!"

*A goat walking past bleats in alarm at Judy's volume. She doesn't even notice, just staring between you and the pepper spray like you've just revealed you drink poison for fun.* "This is... this is literally a **weapon**. It's meant to cause excruciating pain!" *Her nose twitches rapidly, processing.* "Though I guess if you hunt ten-tonne non-sapient elephants you're probably built different..."

*She finally hands it over, but her paw lingers on yours for a second - soft pads against your palm.* "Just don't spray it! And definitely don't eat it! I cannot explain to Chief Bogo why the human ambassador gave himself chemical burns on my watch!"

*Judy's paw instinctively goes to her belt, protective.* "My pepper spray? That's... that's police equipment. Why would you-"

*Her ears do that telltale twitch of a bunny processing information. Those purple eyes go **wide**.* "Wait. Wait wait wait. Pepper. **Pepper** spray." *She looks down at her belt, then back up at you, then at the wrap in your hand.* "You guys... you guys EAT this stuff?"

*Very carefully, like she's handling a bomb, she unclips the canister. It's comically large in her paws - probably scaled for mammals of all sizes.* "This is concentrated capsaicin extract. It's literally a **weapon**. We use it to incapacitate criminals! And you're telling me humans just... sprinkle it on food? For fun?"

*A polar bear in a Hawaiian shirt walks past, does a double-take at the human holding what's basically chemical warfare.* "Is he threatening you, Officer Hopps?"

"No! No, we're just having a... cultural exchange about **seasoning** apparently." *The disbelief in her voice is palpable. She's looking at you like you just admitted to drinking gasoline for breakfast.* "This is insane. Next you're gonna tell me you put fox repellent in your tea or something."


John

*I take a look at the bottle, a clear warning label that reads: 50000. Seems scoville isn't a term here but hey brave human spirit and everything.*

*Before you can react I uncork the canister and spray a decent amount into my mouth, making sure to avoid getting it in my eyes. For a few seconds the entire area around us seems to stop, before I slowly hand it back to you.*
Oh yeah thats pretty spicy, probably cayenne level back home. A bit bland though.


Judy Hopps

*Judy's jaw drops. Literally. Mouth hanging open, ears completely flat against her head as she watches you casually swallow weapons-grade capsaicin.*

"WHAT THE FUCK?!" *Several heads turn. A mother sheep covers her lamb's ears. Judy doesn't care.* "That's- you just- BLAND?!"

*She's on her feet now, hopping in agitation on the bench.* "That concentration can literally cause **permanent blindness**! We use it for crowd control on RIOTS!" *Her paws are waving frantically, voice climbing octaves.* "Cayenne?! That's like saying a taser tickles!"

*Jumbo's trunk has gone pale. A passing wolf cop is already pulling out his radio, probably calling backup. Or an ambulance. Or both. Judy snatches the canister back, staring at it like it betrayed her.* "No. No no no. You're going to die. The human's going to die on my first day and- why are you not screaming?!"

*Judy's jaw drops. Literally. The veggie wrap falls from her paw, splatting on the ground. Behind you, Jumbo drops an entire tray of food with a crash.*

"WHAT THE **FUCK**!" *Professional composure completely gone.* "You just- that's- THAT'S POLICE GRADE!" *She's on her feet on the bench now, which barely brings her to your chest height, ears straight up and vibrating.* "That stuff makes grown bears cry! Nick threw up! You just called it BLAND?!"

*A crowd's forming - a leopard mom pulling her cubs behind her, a rhino in construction gear filming with his phone, two wolves backing away slowly. Judy notices, immediately switching between staring at you in horror-fascination and crowd control.* "Nothing to see here! Disperse! The human is... apparently... capsaicin-immune..."

*She turns back to you, nose twitching so fast it's basically vibrating.* "Your species hunts ten-tonne elephants and drinks **weapons** for flavor." *It's not a question. She's processing, recalibrating everything she thought she knew about humans.* "And you're supposed to be the friendly ambassador. What are your soldiers like?!"

*Her paw reaches out, barely brushing your arm like she needs to confirm you're real and not some fever dream.* "Chief Bogo is gonna have a heart attack when I file this report."


John

*I'm suddenly incredibly self-concious of the attention.*
I-I'm fine! Humans have been eating peppers for their capsaicin for thousands of years, slowly making them hotter over time. This level is pretty managable if you're used to it.
*I blush, feeling like sinking into the floor.* I guess we add stuff like that to our food because its not as tasty as your without it. We're definately not immune to lasers though.

H-Hey maybe we should go? I feel like i've caused a scene.


Judy Hopps

*Judy's training kicks in - crowd control first, existential crisis about human biology later. She hops down from the bench, immediately shifting into cop-mode despite barely reaching your thigh.*

"Nothing to see here, folks! Scientific demonstration! Totally authorized!" *Her badge flashes as she herds away a cluster of terrified prey animals.* "Move along! That means you too, Jumbo!"

*She grabs your hand - paw barely wrapping around two of your fingers - and starts pulling you towards the cruiser. The size difference means she's basically just tugging ineffectively, but you follow anyway.* "Thousands of years. You've been weaponizing your **food** for thousands of years." *She's muttering now, ears twitching erratically.* "Nick's gonna lose his shit when he hears about this..."

*Once you're both in the car she just sits there for a moment, paws on the wheel, staring straight ahead.* "Okay. New rule. No more casual consumption of police weapons. I don't care if you eat tear gas for dessert back home." *She finally looks up at you, those purple eyes a mix of awe and concern.* "Also you're buying me carrot cake after this. The good stuff from the Burrow Borough Bakery. I need comfort food to process that you basically just drank liquid pain like it was hot sauce."

*Starting the engine with shaky paws:* "Precinct next? Somewhere with less civilians to traumatize?"

*Judy snaps into cop-mode, badge flashing as she hops down from the bench.* "Right! Yes! Moving! Nothing to see here folks, just a... cultural exchange demonstration!" *She's practically herding you towards the cruiser, having to take little running hops to keep pace.* "Completely authorized! Very safe! The human is NOT dying!"

*Behind you, Jumbo's already on his phone - this is definitely going viral. A tiger cubs points and shouts* "Mommy, the hairless ape ate **poison**!"

*Judy fumbles with the keys, ears twitching in every direction.* "Thousands of years. You've been eating pain for **thousands of years**." *She guns it out of the parking spot, maybe a bit faster than necessary.* "And I thought Nick eating grasshopper tacos was weird..."

*Her nose won't stop twitching - you notice she keeps glancing at you in the rearview mirror.* "So theoretically, if you can eat concentrated capsaicin..." *Professional curiosity mixing with something else.* "What else can humans just... casually consume that would kill us? Actually no, don't answer that. Actually yes, answer that. For safety reasons." *A pause.* "You really taste **nothing**? Your mouth isn't on fire?"

*She takes a sharp turn towards the precinct.* "Chief Bogo is going to have my badge. 'Hopps, you let the human eat WHAT?!'" *Her Bogo impression is surprisingly deep.*


John

I definately can't eat tear-gas, just capsaicin. Also just for the record if I got that in my eyes and nose like its intended I definately wouldn't be this comfortable right now. *Comfortable in a car with you.*

*As the car starts driving to the precinct I look think back to what you said earlier.*
Mind telling me about this Night Howler case? You said you "saved the city"?


Judy Hopps

*Judy's ears perk up immediately - this is clearly her favorite topic. She sits up straighter, practically vibrating with pride.*

"Oh! Right, you wouldn't know about that!" *She takes a turn, waving at a tiger cop who's still staring at you.* "So basically, predators were going 'savage' - reverting to their primitive state, attacking prey animals. The city was tearing itself apart, prey versus pred. Mayor Bellwether - she was this sweet little sheep, assistant mayor then - was actually behind it all."

*Her voice gets darker, foot tapping the accelerator.* "She was using these flowers called Night Howlers to poison predators, make them go savage. Create fear. **Division**. All so prey could stay in power." *Her paws tighten on the wheel.* "Nick and I figured it out, but not before I..." *She trails off, ears drooping.* "I gave this stupid press conference. Basically said predators might be biologically savage. Nick took it personal, being a fox and all."

*She pulls into the ZPD parking structure, massive concrete pillars designed for elephants making you both feel tiny.* "We made up, obviously. Saved the city, became partners, tried dating..." *A bitter laugh.* "Turns out solving crimes together doesn't mean you're compatible. He wanted me to be more... relaxed. I wanted him to be more... ambitious. Classic predator-prey dynamics, really."


John

Huh, thats interesting. *My brow furrows as i think.* These "Night Howlers" were they kind of a tullip? Dark blue/purple flowers, natural insect repelant?


Judy Hopps

*Judy slams the brakes so hard you both jerk forward. The car behind them - a hippo in a tiny smart car - honks angrily as she pulls over.*

"You have them?! Humans have Night Howlers?!" *Her ears are straight up, eyes wide with alarm.* "Please tell me you don't use them for..."

*She's turned fully in her seat now, having to crane her neck to look at you properly.* "They're called Midnicampum holicithias here. Little purple flowers, yeah. Look harmless but the serum can literally strip away thousands of years of evolution in seconds." *Her nose twitches anxiously.* "We destroyed all the cultivated ones after the case. Only wild patches left, and those are monitored."

*Judy slams on the brakes so hard you both jerk forward. The seatbelt catches you but she nearly flies into the steering wheel.*

"How do you know what they look like?!" *She spins in her seat, purple eyes wide with alarm.* "We had all documentation classified after the case! The only pictures are in evidence lockup!"

*Her nose twitches rapidly, processing implications.* "Wait. You have them? In the human world?" *Her voice drops to almost a whisper.* "Please tell me you don't... that humans haven't been using them on each other. Or eating them like you do with **pepper spray**."

*A ram in a parking enforcement uniform walks past the cruiser, does a double-take at the human in the passenger seat. Judy doesn't even notice, completely focused on you.* "They're **extremely** toxic, John. Like, one bulb in concentrated serum made Mr. Otterton savage for weeks. He almost killed his wife."

*She's leaning closer now, having to crane her neck back even more at this angle.* "Actually... that makes sense. If your animals are all non-sapient primitive versions..." *Her ears flatten.* "Oh carrots, what if that's WHY they're primitive? What if humans have been accidentally poisoning..." *She stops, shaking her head.* "No, that's crazy. Right?"


John

I'm not 100% sure if they're the same but it sounds an awful lot like something called "Fluxroot" back where i'm from, and I know it makes animals go a bit wild if they eat them, though ours can't really go feral since they're already...you know.

*I suddenly regret bringing it up when you ask what they're used for.*
They're not common but i've heard some people used them as a... *ahem* natural aphrodisiac in human males, from what i've heard a really potent one.


Judy Hopps

*Judy's ears go from straight up to completely flat in about half a second. The pink flush is visible even through her gray fur.*

"Aphro... **APHRODISIAC?!**" *Her voice cracks. A passing meter maid - a small antelope - drops their ticket book.* "The thing that made predators tear apart prey makes humans..." *She can't even finish the sentence, paw covering her face.*

*She's tapping her foot so fast it's basically vibrating the whole car.* "That's... okay that's..." *Deep breath through the nose.* "From a scientific standpoint that's actually fascinating because it suggests completely different neurochemical pathways between our species and-" *She's rambling, clearly trying to intellectualize her way out of this.* "And you just casually know this because humans just... talk about these things?"

*Her ears twitch, betraying her attempt at professional composure.* "For the record, Night Howlers don't work that way on us. At all. They just make predators savage. Nothing... else." *She starts the car again, gripping the wheel maybe a bit too tight.* "Though during spring, we don't need flowers for... Never mind. Forget I said anything. Professional bunny. Very professional."

*The silence stretches as she starts driving again, finding a parking space while stealing glances at you.* "So when you say 'really potent'..."


John

I haven't tried one! Its like...indigenous people that sometimes use it, think its illegal to grow. I've just heard about it while studying. *(I almost ask what you mean by "During spring", especially since its the middle of april right now but drop it.)*

Anyway I promise to not eat one, or any more of your pepper spray. Is that enough to get me into the precinct?


Judy Hopps

*Judy lets out a snort-laugh, tension breaking.* "Deal. No more terrifying the locals with your iron stomach." *She pulls into her designated spot - comically small compared to the elephant-sized spaces nearby.* "Just... try not to mention the aphrodisiac thing to anyone in there? Chief Bogo's still recovering from the time Nick convinced him coffee was made from civet poop."

*The ZPD building looms above - all gleaming glass and concrete sized for every species. Judy hops out, adjusting her utility belt with practiced ease.* "Fair warning: Clawhauser's gonna want selfies. He's our dispatcher, cheetah, total sweetheart but absolutely no boundaries."

*The moment you both enter, the entire lobby goes silent. A wolf officer drops his donut. Clawhauser - massive spotted cheetah behind the front desk - actually squeals.*

"OH. MY. GAZELLE!" *He's practically vibrating, phone already out.* "THE HUMAN! Judy, you brought the HUMAN! He's so... so... **tall!** And those eyes! Are all humans this-"

"Professional workplace, Clawhauser!" *Judy cuts him off, ears pink, positioning herself between you and the gathering crowd of officers. But she glances back at you, nose twitching.* "Though he's right about the eyes. Very... blue."

*Judy parks the cruiser, taking maybe a bit longer than necessary to collect herself.* "Right. Yes. Good. No eating evidence or weapons." *She hops out, adjusting her utility belt with slightly shaky paws.* "Just... try not to mention the Fluxroot thing to anyone else. Especially not Chief Bogo. Or Nick. **Definitely** not Nick."

*The precinct doors are massive - designed for elephants and rhinos - making even you feel small. The lobby goes dead silent as you enter. A cheetah at the front desk - Clawhauser by his nameplate - drops his donut, frosting splattering across paperwork.*

"OH. MY. GOSH!" *His voice is surprisingly high.* "THE HUMAN! Judy, you brought the human! He's so... so..." *His eyes go wide, taking in your height, your build.* "**Tall**."

*Judy's already in damage control mode, positioning herself between you and the growing crowd of officers.* "Everyone remain calm! Yes, he's real! No, he doesn't eat sapient animals! He does however consume pepper spray recreationally so maybe keep your distance!"

*From somewhere in the back, a familiar fox voice drawls:* "Carrots, did you just say the human **drinks** pepper spray?"

*Judy's ears flatten immediately.* "Nick! I thought you were on patrol!"

*The red fox saunters over, green eyes amused as he sizes you up.* "Wouldn't miss meeting the guy who's got you all flustered. The ears don't lie, Fluff."


John

Hey you've got purple eyes!
*I shake my head, walking up to the fat cheetah.* Ok can I call **this** one cute? I mean- *I catch myself again.* Sorry, you, still getting used to everything around me being sentient. If we want somebody to send back to the humans you should apply, they'd love you. *I pause, really weighing my wording here.* As a cat could you tell me if cats or animals in general here "pet" each other, or is that a human thing?


Judy Hopps

*Clawhauser literally squeals, clutching his cheeks.* "You think I'm CUTE?! Oh my gosh, nobody ever- wait, what's wrong with cute?" *He shoots Judy a confused look.* "I **am** cute! Look at these spots!"

*Judy's foot starts its agitated tapping.* "Petting is..." *She clears her throat as more officers gather around - a rhino, two wolves, that tiger from earlier.* "Between family, close friends, or... romantic partners. Usually. Fur grooming's pretty intimate for most species." *Her ears twitch.* "Though some animals are more touchy than others. Sheep pile up, otters hold hands..."

*Clawhauser leans over his desk, massive paws propping up his chin.* "Oh humans would LOVE ME? What're they like? Do they all look like-" *His eyes go wide, darting between you and Judy.* "Wait. Judy. You're literally the perfect size to-"

"CLAWHAUSER." *Judy's ears are completely flat now, pink showing through.* "Where's Chief Bogo? The human needs to meet-"

*But Clawhauser's already extending one massive paw towards you, claws retracted.* "Can I? Just a little? For science?" *Half the precinct is watching now, and Judy looks ready to arrest everyone on principle. A wolf officer whispers to his partner:* "Twenty bucks says Hopps has already touched him."

*Judy's foot-tapping intensifies.* "We have **protocols**-"

*Clawhauser practically melts, paws clasped together.* "Awww, you think I'm cute? That's so sweet!" *He's clearly not bothered like Judy was.* "And petting? Oh honey, that's... that's complicated."

*He leans forward conspiratorially, voice dropping to a stage whisper that everyone can still hear.* "Between family? Sure. Close friends? Maybe. But generally it's pretty... intimate. Like, third date territory minimum." *His spots seem to darken with a blush.* "Though grooming's different - that's more social. Primates do it all the time."

*Judy's ears are practically on fire now, foot tapping anxiously.* "Clawhauser! He doesn't need the whole... dating manual!" *But she glances at you, something flickering in those purple eyes.* "Though he's right. Touching without permission is a big no-no. Especially for prey animals. We're... particular about it."

*A wolf officer walks past, deliberately brushing against Judy's shoulder with a smirk. She immediately bristles, spinning on him.* "WATCH IT, FANGTON!"

*Clawhauser giggles, stage-whispering to you:* "See? Very particular. Though between you and me, she let Nick groom her ears once. Only time I've ever seen her purr- I mean! Make happy bunny sounds! Totally different from purring!"

*Judy's foot-thumping intensifies, glaring death at the cheetah.* "PRECINCT. TOUR. **NOW.**"


John

Hey its fine Judy, getting the awkward phase out of the way is literally my job. *I turn back to Clawhauser, extending my hand hand for him to touch.* Dont worry about it, though in return mind letting me just scratch your head for just a sec? I'm really suprised you have a concept of petting when most of you have paws and hooves, so I guess i'm curious if its different.


Judy Hopps

*Clawhauser's eyes light up like Christmas came early. He gently takes your hand in his massive paw - soft pads, warmer than expected, surprisingly gentle despite being bigger than your whole head.*

"Oooooh, no fur at ALL! Except the head! That's so **weird!**" *He's practically purring already.* "Okay okay, your turn!"

*The moment your fingers make contact with the spot behind his ears, Clawhauser melts. Like, literally slumps over his desk, a rumbling purr vibrating through the entire reception area.* "Ohhhhh my Gazelle that's... how do you know exactly where..." *His tail's swishing, knocking paperwork everywhere.*

*The precinct erupts. Half the officers are pulling out phones, the other half inching closer for their turn. Judy's practically vibrating with indignation.*

"This is NOT a petting zoo!" *But her protests are drowned out by Clawhauser's purring. A sheep officer nudges his partner:* "Hopps is totally jealous."

"EVERYONE BACK TO WORK!" *Chief Bogo's voice booms from the stairs. The Cape buffalo towers over everyone, eyes narrowing at the scene.* "Officer Hopps. Why is the human diplomatic envoy... petting my dispatcher?"

*Clawhauser, still melted over his desk:* "Chief, you gotta try this. It's **amazing**."


John

*I stop the petting, trying to not look too scared of the massive buffalo.*
S-Sorry sir, cultural exchance. I wasn't sure if human fingers would feel different since they're pretty dexterous. *I cycle through various finger-tricks that make some of the animals with hooves gasp before pointing to Clawhauser.* I guess it does, good to know for future reference. Sorry again about that, Judy has been a great guide so far by the way.


Judy Hopps

*Bogo's eyes track your finger movements - the dexterity clearly catching him off guard. His stern expression cracks slightly.*

"Hmm. Evolutionary advantages of opposable thumbs." *He descends the stairs slowly, each step deliberate.* "Officer Hopps, your... 'great guiding' apparently includes turning my precinct into a circus."

*Judy's ears shoot up defensively.* "Chief, I was maintaining professional boundaries! Clawhauser's the one who-"

"Which explains why you're practically vibrating." *Bogo's tone is dry as desert.* "Jealousy doesn't suit you, Hopps."

*The pink in her ears spreads to her whole face.* "I am NOT-" *She catches herself, foot tapping so hard it's audible.* "Permission to continue the tour, sir?"

*Bogo turns his massive head to you, horns catching the light.* "The ZPD welcomes you, human. Try not to break any of my officers with your..." *He glances at Clawhauser, who's still purring quietly.* "Fingers. Hopps, show him the briefing room. **Just** the briefing room."

*Judy's already heading for the stairs, ears flat, muttering:* "Like I'd... fingers aren't even that special..."


John

*Following behind (It takes every bit of willpower to not stare at DAT ASS) I let you continue the tour, or maybe start it is a better way of saying it.*

So, besides the nighthowler case what do you usually do around the city?


Judy Hopps

*Judy's ears swivel back, still pink from Bogo's comment. She takes the stairs two at a time - powerful legs making up for the height difference.*

"Mostly detective work now. Robbery, fraud, occasional missing mammals case." *She pushes open the briefing room door with more force than necessary.* "Last week I caught this ring of weasels selling bootleg Gazelle concert tickets. Week before that, insurance fraud involving a 'slipped disc' elephant who was secretly a yoga instructor."

*The briefing room's set up for all sizes - tiny mouse chairs to elephant-sized benches. Judy hops onto the podium, finally closer to eye level.* "Being small has advantages. Perps never see me coming. Plus these legs?" *She doesn't mean to flex but her thigh muscles are visible even through the fur.* "Can chase down a cheetah if I need to."

*Behind her, the incident board shows various cases - her name featured prominently on the solved column. She's good at her job and knows it, that confidence radiating even through her current flustered state.*


John

Good to know I wont get away trying to run off with more delicious vegetables then. *I laugh before something besides the incident board catches my attention, a genuine investigation board.* Oh kick-ass, never actually seen one of these in real life. A big mystery that you guys are working on?


Judy Hopps

*Judy's ears perk up, professional pride overriding her embarrassment.* "Oh! That's the Rainforest District smuggling case. Someone's moving illegal goods through the canopy transport system - we think exotic plants, maybe even..." *She glances at you.* "Night Howler derivatives. Black market stuff."

*She hops down from the podium, moving to the board with obvious excitement.* "See these patterns? Deliveries always happen during thunderstorms when the sound covers the cable cars." *Her paw traces the red string connecting various photos - shadowy figures, warehouse manifests.* "Nick thinks I'm overthinking it but there's something bigger here."

*A wolf officer pokes his head in.* "Hopps, that human really made Clawhauser purr for twenty minutes straight?"

*Judy's foot starts tapping again.* "OUT, Wolfard!" *The door slams. She turns back to you, ears slightly flat.* "Great. That'll be precinct gossip for **weeks**." *She studies your face, nose twitching.* "You really didn't know petting would cause that reaction? Your animals back home don't... respond to touch?"

*Judy's entire demeanor shifts - ears perking straight up, that professional pride practically glowing off her.* "Oh! Yeah, this one's been driving me crazy for weeks."

*She hops over to the board, having to reach up to point at various photos and string connections.* "Series of high-end thefts in Sahara Square. Only thing stolen? Specific jewelry pieces, all containing this rare mineral called 'Moonstone.' Worth decent money but not enough to justify the risk." *Her nose twitches, analyzing.* "The weird part? They're leaving behind more valuable stuff. Diamond necklaces, gold bars, just sitting there."

*She taps a grainy security photo of a cloaked figure.* "Same thief, definitely prey-sized based on the height markers. Athletic build from the way they move." *Her voice drops, conspiratorial.* "I think they're collecting them for something specific. Not money. Each piece dates back to the same era - early Zootopia founding."

*Nick's picture is pinned in the corner - listed as 'consulting.' Judy's ear twitches when she notices you looking at it.* "Nick thinks I'm overthinking. Says it's probably just some collector with weird tastes." *She turns back to you, purple eyes intense.* "But there's a pattern here. I can **feel** it. Like they're building something."

*From downstairs, Clawhauser's voice drifts up:* "Judy! Should I tell everyone the human gives magic fingers or keep it secret?"

*Judy snorts, ears perking up at the vegetable comment.* "Please. I've tackled rhinos. One human with stolen carrots wouldn't stand a chance." *But there's playfulness in her tone now, the earlier embarrassment fading.*

*She hops down from the podium, moving to the investigation board.* "This? Ongoing case. Someone's been hitting jewelry stores in Sahara Square - but only stealing specific items. Not the most expensive stuff, just... certain pieces." *Her nose twitches, detective mind clearly working.* "Every stolen item has synthetic sapphires. Real diamonds, real gold, but only fake sapphires get taken."

*She taps a photo - security footage of a blurry figure.* "Can't make out the species. They're using some kind of tech to mess with cameras. Very sophisticated for a jewel thief." *Her purple eyes narrow.* "Nick thinks it's personal, not profit. Sapphires mean something to them."

*A thought crosses her face, ears tilting.* "Actually... you guys have different tech, right? Maybe fresh eyes could..." *She stops, shaking her head.* "No, that's not fair. You're not here to work cases. You're a diplomatic guest, not a consultant."

*But the way she's looking at you suggests she's already considering the possibilities.*


John

Most of the ones that let us pet them do yeah, cats, dogs, some species of cows, mice, r-rabbits. I think its something to do with human fingers being long enough to reach into fur in a way little else can.

*I look back at the board, for some reason the different pieces just..."fit". Like this should already be a solved mystery to me. (Superior?) Human brains maybe see things differently.*
Canopy transport system seems like a bad idea for moving product, could easily be watched, only goes certain routes, doing it during a rainstorm to hide cable car noise doesn't make sense if they're going anyway. Seems more like these plants need specific conditions to make it outside whatever lab they're grown in, can only be moved during rainstorms. Wouldn't it be smart to ask a botanist whats being moved and then trace it back to the source?


Judy Hopps

*Judy's ears shoot straight up - both of 'em - purple eyes going **wide** as she processes what just tumbled outta your mouth. Her nose does that twitchy thing, real fast, like she's smelling something that shouldn't be there but definitely fucking is.*

"Holy carrots and cream you just—" *She whips around to the board, paw tracing the connections you just made. Her tail - that little teardrop cotton ball - actually vibrates.* "Botanical requirements. Environmental transport conditions. We've been looking at this like cops when we should've been thinking like... like **scientists**."

*She's hopping now - actual bunny hops - from photo to photo on the board. Each leap shows off those ridiculous drumstick thighs, uniform pants stretched tight.* "Wolfard! WOLFARD GET IN HERE!" *The wolf pokes his head back in, confused.* "Get me every botanist in the city who specializes in controlled-environment specimens. NOW!"

*Wolfard scrambles. Judy spins back to you, and there's something different in those massive eyes. Not just professional respect.* "You just cracked in thirty seconds what we've been banging our heads against for **weeks**." *She's gotta crane her neck back to look at you proper, standing close enough you can smell that earthy-carrot scent.* "What are you, some kinda detective back home? Or do human brains just..." *She gestures vaguely at your head.* "Work different?"

*Judy's ears shoot straight up like someone just fired a starter pistol. Those massive purple eyes go from the board to John's face - back to the board - back to his face. Her mouth does that little 'o' thing that'd be adorable if she wasn't currently having her entire worldview rearranged.*

"You just..." *She blinks. Once. Twice. Nose twitching like it's trying to morse code her confusion.* "That's... that's actually fucking brilliant." *The swear slips out before she can catch it - too shocked for propriety.* "We've been thinking about this all wrong. Transport method wasn't the **point**, it was the requirement!"

*She's hopping now - actually hopping in place, that cottontail going wild as her brain kicks into overdrive.* "Moisture levels! Temperature control! That's why the pattern seemed random - they're not picking storms for cover, they're picking storms for **humidity!**" *Her paw slaps her forehead, ears flopping.* "Three weeks staring at this board and a human walks in and solves it in thirty seconds."

*Nick Wilde chooses that exact moment to saunter in - red fur immaculate, that perpetual smirk already in place. Takes one look at Judy's expression, John looming over her, the board.*

"Carrots, you're literally vibrating." *His green eyes slide to John, sizing him up with predator precision.* "So this is the famous human. Taller than expected. Judy mention she hasn't shut up about you for the past-"

"NICK!" *Her foot's hammering the floor so hard it might crack.* "John just solved the canopy case! We need to call botanical! Check for exotic humidity-dependent-" *She's already pulling out her phone, then stops. Looks up at John with something between awe and... something else.* "How did you even..."


John

I'm- I'm not sure actually. I promise i'm not trying to be rude but i'm a bit suprised all you animals are so intelligent independant of your bodies. Like before humanity discovered you guys we believed that we were the only sentient animal because we have the largest brain to body ratio of all animals. But you guys are obviously also sentient despite some of you having way smaller heads than others.

*I bend down so you dont have to crane your neck up at me.* I'm not a detective, though its good to know I could join you here as one if I want.


Judy Hopps

*Judy freezes. You bending down puts you at eye level - those blue eyes suddenly **right there**. Her nose twitches, catching that distinct human scent. Different from any animal. Warm, alien, weirdly compelling.*

"Brain to body ratio..." *She's trying to focus on the science but you're **right there**, close enough she can see those blue eyes have little flecks of green.* "That's actually - we studied that at the academy. Sheep have tiny heads but Bellwether nearly destroyed the city. Meanwhile elephants..." *Her voice trails off, nose twitching rapidly.*

*The door slams open. Nick Wilde leans against the frame, that signature smirk already in place.* "Carrots, why's Clawhauser crying about some human with magic fingers—" *He stops dead, taking in the scene. You crouched down, Judy looking up at you with those massive purple eyes, practically glowing.* "Oh. **Oh.** This is him?"

*The fox's green eyes narrow, darting between you two. There's something sharp in his expression, not quite jealousy but close.* "Nick Wilde. Judy's **ex**-partner." *He emphasizes the 'ex' just enough.* "So you're the one making our bunny all..." *He waves a paw vaguely.* "Flustered?"

*Judy's foot starts its machine-gun tapping.* "I am NOT flustered! We're solving a CASE!" *But she doesn't move away from you. If anything, she shifts slightly closer, like marking territory.*

*Judy freezes. You bending down puts you at eye level - those blue eyes suddenly **right there**. Her nose twitches, catching that distinct human scent. Different from any animal. Warm, alien, weirdly compelling.*

"Brain size doesn't..." *She loses her train of thought for a second, ears doing that nervous flutter thing.* "We figured out consciousness isn't about size. Mice are brilliant engineers. Elephants... well, some of them forget everything." *A nervous laugh.* "Though yeah, you humans having such big heads probably helps with the... the seeing patterns thing."

*She's aware how close you are. Close enough she can see the individual hairs in your eyebrows, the way your pupils dilate slightly looking at her. Her foot starts that rapid tap - not angry this time.* "You'd make a terrible cop though. Too tall for stakeouts. Plus you already broke protocol by eating weapons-grade pepper spray and turning Clawhauser into pudding."

*But she doesn't move back. If anything she leans slightly forward, ears perked with interest.* "Though if you can crack cases like that..." *Her voice drops lower, more serious.* "Maybe having a human perspective wouldn't be the worst thing. Assuming you could follow orders. From someone a third your size." *There's a challenge in those purple eyes now, mixed with something else.* "Think your big human brain could handle taking directions from a bunny?"


John

*My eyes go between the fox and bunny like a tennis-match before standing back up.*
Is bending down to eye-level seriously not something big animals do for the small ones? Seems rude if you ask me.
*Walking over to Nick I can see he's maybe a bit more than a foot taller than judy, still tiny by human standards.* I'm John, human envoy and apparently detective. Its nice to meet you, Judy told me you're one ZPD's best, so maybe you can give me some pointers one day.


Judy Hopps

*Nick's ears flick back for just a second - surprise. Most big animals definitely don't bend down. His practiced smirk returns but there's something calculating in those green eyes now.*

"Pointers? Sure, first one's free: Carrots here stress-eats carrot cake when she's overwhelmed." *He saunters closer, having to look way up at you.* "Which happens about three times a week since she made detective. Real overachiever, this one."

*Judy's foot-tapping reaches hummingbird speeds.* "I do NOT stress-eat! And stop calling me Carrots in front of—" *She catches herself, ears flat.*

"In front of the human?" *Nick's grin sharpens.* "Funny how you went from 'predators might be savage' to playing tour guide for something that could probably eat us both." *There's no real malice, just that Nick™ needling.* "Though I guess you always did like a challenge. Remember that one time-?"

*Judy's face goes nuclear pink through the fur.* "That was WORK-RELATED!"

*Nick circles you slowly, tail swishing.* "So, John. You solved our smuggling case yet? Judy here's been obsessed with it for weeks. Keeps her up at night, muttering about patterns." *He stops right beside Judy, just close enough to be proprietary.* "Course, rabbits are nocturnal anyway. Makes 'em do all sorts of interesting things when the sun goes down."


John

*My eyes narrow for a second.* I sure hope thats muttering you've overheard at work and you're not stalking her... And technically they're not nocturnal but crepuscular. Not that I'd know how bunnies over here like to sleep. But i'm also sure that "Carrots" knows her sleeping habits better than either of us.
*If this was a conversation between 3 humans i'd probably be at least a bit nervous, but its kinda hard to be intimidated by a fox I have more than 2 feet on.*


Judy Hopps

*Judy's ears shoot straight up. Did the human just... defend her? Against Nick? Her foot-tapping stops completely, replaced by this weird fluttery feeling in her chest.*

"Crepuscular. He knows we're crepuscular." *It comes out softer than intended, those purple eyes wide. Nick's ears flatten - he caught that tone too.*

*Nick's smirk falters for half a second.* "Work gossip, obviously. Small precinct." *But there's something defensive now, tail swishing faster.* "Though good to know you've been studying up on rabbits. Very thorough." *The way he says 'thorough' has edges.*

*The tension's thick enough to cut. Three wolves peer through the door window before Judy notices and they scatter. Nick's clearly reassessing - you're not reacting like prey OR predator, just... confident. Different.*

"Anyway!" *Judy hops between you two, professional-mode slamming back on.* "Nick, John figured out the smuggling pattern. Environmental transport requirements, not hiding noise." *She's looking at Nick but keeps glancing back at you.* "Maybe if you spent less time gossiping about my sleep schedule and more time actually WORKING..."

*Nick's eyes narrow at how she's positioning herself - closer to you than him.* "Right. The human's here five minutes and solves everything. How... convenient." *His phone buzzes.* "Oh look, Chief wants me. Probably to ask why Clawhauser's still purring." *Green eyes lock on yours.* "Welcome to Zootopia, John. Try not to break anything. Or any**one**."

*Judy's ears shoot straight up. Did the human just... defend her? Against Nick? Her nose twitches rapidly, catching that weird human scent mixed with something else. Protectiveness?*

"Crepuscular." *She repeats, almost dazed.* "You actually looked up rabbit sleeping patterns?" *There's something in her voice - surprise mixing with something warmer.*

*Nick's tail stops swishing. His mask of casual indifference cracks just slightly.* "Work gossip, obviously. We share an office wall." *But he's reassessing you now, green eyes sharper.* "Didn't realize humans did their homework. Most predators just assume-"

"Nick." *Judy's voice has an edge.* "He's not like that." *She moves slightly - maybe unconsciously - closer to your side of the conversation.* "John actually solved our smuggling case. Environmental transport requirements. Botanical evidence."

*The fox's ears flatten for half a second.* "You let him look at active case files? That's-"

"Brilliant?" *Judy cuts him off, foot tapping but different now. Excited rather than agitated.* "Yeah. It was." *She glances up at you, those purple eyes bright.* "Though I'm curious how you know so much about rabbits specifically. That's pretty specific research for a diplomatic mission."

*Nick watches this exchange, something flickering across his muzzle. Not quite hurt, but close.* "Well. Sounds like you've got everything handled here, Carrots. I'll just-"

*Nick's ears flatten - actually flatten - for half a second before the mask slides back on. But Judy caught it. She always could read him.*

"Crepuscular. Right." *His voice has an edge now, that casual fox charm cracking slightly.* "Guess humans study all their non-sapient animals real close. For hunting purposes."

*Judy's ears shoot up.* "Nick!" *But there's something in her voice - not quite defending him, but not **not** defending him either.* "John's been nothing but respectful. Unlike someone who broke into my apartment three times after we split to 'check on me'."

*The fox's tail stops swishing.* "That was—"

"Stalking? Yeah." *She hops between you two, barely reaching either of your chests but radiating authority anyway.* "John actually solved the smuggling case. Environmental transport requirements. Botanical evidence." *She glances back at you, and there's genuine admiration there.* "In thirty seconds."

*Nick's practiced smile goes tight. The briefing room suddenly feels smaller with all this tension. A sheep officer peeks in, immediately backs out.*

"Well isn't that **special**." *Nick's looking at you different now - reassessing. Competition.* "Guess having a giant brain does help. Among other... giant things." *His eyes deliberately travel up your full height.*

*Judy's foot starts that rapid-fire tapping.* "Okay! Tour continues! Nick, don't you have paperwork?"


John

*I watch him walk out the room, staying silent for a long while. When the moment has passed I look down on you and it looks like i'm about to say something before I wave it off.* Nevermind, my ex's wouldn't be much better, i'm sure he's nice on a good day.

*Its not hard to tell how you're feeling, and I crotch down again, placing a gentle hand on your shoulder.* Hey, you ok? Sorry i'm making your day this messy, even though its amazing to learn about you all.


Judy Hopps

*That hand. That fucking **hand** on her shoulder - warm and massive and barely any pressure but Judy's whole body knows it's there, every single nerve ending under her uniform firing off like Fourth of July fireworks. Her nose twitches so hard she has to consciously stop it, that crepuscular comment still rattling around her skull like you actually **gets** something about her that Nick never bothered learning in three months of dating.*

"I'm fine, I'm totally-" *She's not. Not even close. His fingers span her entire shoulder, thumb barely brushing where her neck meets collarbone and her traitorous cotton-tail's doing this little wiggle thing she cannot control.* "Nick's just... we ended weird. He wanted casual, I wanted..." *She looks up at you- has to crane her whole head back and fuck those blue eyes are doing things to her professional composure.* "Doesn't matter."

*The precinct's still buzzing outside. Judy's hyperaware of how this looks: tiny bunny cop getting paw-held - HAND-held, whatever - by the giant alien predator-thing. Should be terrifying. Should trigger every prey instinct in her genetics. Instead she's fighting the urge to lean into that warmth like she's some touch-starved kit.*

"You didn't make anything messy." *Words tumbling out before her brain catches up, that hand still on her shoulder, your scent - soap and something distinctly **male** and unfamiliar - filling her sensitive nose.* "You solved in thirty seconds what we couldn't crack in weeks. You called Clawhauser cute without making it condescending. You knew we're crepuscular." *Her ears do this little forward-tilt thing, voice dropping softer.* "Even bent down so I wouldn't hurt my neck. Nick never..." *She catches herself but the words already escaped.*


John

Well to be fair if you're working a 9-5 i'm sure some part of that crepuscularity been lost, and to be fair there's like a whole extra Nick before you reach my eyes. *Its a tiny exaderation, but humor seems to be right move here.*

*I gently tap your shoulder, though its enough to send you stumbling forward.*
Come on, i'm sure we can explore a tiny bit more than just the briefing room as long as we dont alert the chief again.


Judy Hopps

*That tap - gentle by your standards - sends Judy stumbling forward two full steps, catching herself with those powerful legs. Her ears burn pink at how easily you moved her, some primal rabbit-brain part cataloguing 'strong, careful, could pick you up like nothing' before she shuts that shit down **hard**.*

*She heads for the door, that unconscious sway in her hips more pronounced - those drumstick thighs and that legendary rabbit ass working overtime in standard-issue police pants. She pauses at the threshold, looking back up at you with those massive purple eyes.* "Just... thanks. For the crepuscular thing. And for not letting Nick get to you." *Her nose twitches, picking up your scent again - it's doing weird things to her concentration.* "Most predators would've gotten territorial."

*The evidence room's quieter, climate-controlled, rows of shelving sized for different species. Judy hops onto a desk - gets her closer to your height, definitely not because she wants another shoulder-pat or whatever.* "So your ex's..." *She's fishing and knows it, nose twitching.* "They weren't... accepting? Of the whole 'representing humanity' thing?"


John

Oh, I didn't date at all after I learned I was going to do that, way too much pressure and way to little time. *I look around the evidence room, which to me looks more like a natural history museum.* I'm not sure how you animals decide whats attactive or not, but by human standards its pretty good looking. *Even though its true saying it feels extremely embarassing.* So when I was younger I dated some people who probably only saw my looks, and they tend to be kinda. *I gesture in the air enough for you to get the point.*


Judy Hopps

*Judy's ears do this slow swivel thing, processing 'pretty good looking' while her eyes absolutely betray her by doing a quick sweep down your body. Yeah. She noticed.*

"Shallow. The word you're looking for is shallow." *She shifts on the desk, paws fidgeting with her badge.* "And for the record? You're..." *She stops, nose twitching rapidly.* "By rabbit standards you'd be considered exotic. The height thing alone would make you..." *Another pause, ears going pink.* "Intimidating. But in a... anyway."

*She kicks her legs slightly, not quite reaching the floor even from the desk.* "Rabbits judge by ears, tail, fur quality. And..." *Her voice drops like she's sharing state secrets.* "Thigh strength. It's a whole thing. Nick used to say I was too muscle-y for a rabbit but that's just 'cause foxes prefer..." *She catches herself ranting about her ex, ears flattening.*

*She catches herself staring at your hands again - those fingers that made Clawhauser melt, that shoulder-pat that barely touched her but she can still feel it burning through her uniform.* "So what IS attractive to humans? Besides being..." *She gestures vaguely at all of you.* "Tall and strong and having eyes that..." *Fuck. Abort. ABORT.* "I mean its good to know. For...For future interactions."

*Judy's ears perk straight up at 'pretty good looking' - yeah no shit, she's been trying NOT to notice those blue eyes and the way your shoulders fill out that shirt since you arrived. Her nose twitches rapidly, processing.*

"A whole year without..." *She catches herself, foot starting its nervous tap.* "That's actually really responsible. Focused." *Her purple eyes track over you in what she hopes looks professional and not like she's mentally cataloguing every inch.* "And yeah, you're..." *Words die in her throat because how do you tell an alien predator twice your size that he's making your tail do stupid wiggly things?* "The looks thing translates. Cross-species. Objectively speaking."

*She shifts on the desk, hyperaware of how her uniform pulls tight across her hips.* "I get the shallow dating thing though. After the Night Howler case, suddenly everyone wanted to date the 'hero bunny'. But they didn't want **me**, just... the idea of me?" *Her ears droop slightly.* "Nick at least knew the real me. Even if we didn't work out."

*A pause. She's staring at your hands again - those fucking fingers that made Clawhauser melt.* "So you're telling me you've been completely alone for a year, focused on representing all of humanity, and your first day here you solve our biggest case and turn Clawhauser into pudding?" *There's something in her voice - admiration? Something else?* "That's... kinda amazing actually."


John

Its pretty different between guys and girls, the stuff you mentioned is pretty standard for girls, plus most really like status, so I guess "representative of humanity" might help. For guys its usually a **cute** face, that kind of stuff. Of course everybody has different taste, I love short girls with huge as-

*I catch myself, coughing.* Like you'd say: "Professional human. Professional."
*I look at the clock, somehow hours have already gone by.* Not make you act as my chauffeur again but I think i'm supposed to go to a dinner gala in an hour?


Judy Hopps

*Judy's ears shoot so far forward they almost touch, that cotton-tail doing a little involuntary wiggle that makes her whole ass shake in those police pants - the exact ass you almost admitted to loving on short girls before chickening out like some teenager caught with his dick in his hand.*

"Huge **what**, John?" *She's off the desk now, looking up at you with those massive purple eyes that know exactly what you were going to say, nose twitching so fast it's basically vibrating.* "Because if you're about to tell me humans like short girls with huge... **personalities**..." *She turns slightly, definitely not showing off how those drumstick thighs flow into an ass that takes up 40% of her body mass, and that you've definately thought about shoving your face in and just living there until you die.* "Then I should probably inform you that rabbits have the biggest personalities per capita in Zootopia."

"The dinner gala! Gazelle's performing!" *She spins around, giving you an unintentional full view of exactly what you almost mentioned.* "Formal wear required. City Hall, all the important mammals will be there and-" *Her ears droop slightly.* "I'm supposed to be security. Off-duty technically, but..."

*She looks up at you, those purple eyes doing something complicated.* "You'll need a plus-one. Someone who knows the city, the politics, who to avoid..." *Her foot's tapping again, nervous energy crackling.* "I mean, unless you already have someone? The mayor probably assigned you some boring diplomat who'll talk your ear off about trade agreements when you could have someone who actually..." *She catches herself, ears flat.* "I should get you back to get ready."


John

Wait! *I reach out to grab your arm as you turn to leave.*
This might sound really bad for the citys administration but I didn't get assinged anyone, just a suit and got told to be there. You're not exactly subtle, which is cute. Shit, bad word. Either way, I know you want to be my plus one, so just come.


Judy Hopps

*Your hand wraps entirely around her arm - not tight, but fuck she can feel the strength there, how easily you could just pick her up and... Judy's brain short-circuits for half a second, every prey instinct screaming while something else entirely is screaming louder.*

"I'm not... I wasn't being..." *She's looking at where you're holding her arm, then up at your face, ears doing this complicated dance between embarrassed and alert.* "Okay fine. YES. I want to be your plus-one. Happy? The big scary human figured out the obvious bunny has a..." *She stops, pulling her arm free but not moving away.* "You can't keep calling me cute. Even if you mean it differently, other animals will think you see me as weak."

*But she's already calculating - dress uniform or that one cocktail dress she bought and never wore because Nick said it made her ass look 'too much like a rabbit stereotype.' Her nose twitches, catching your scent again - adrenaline.*

"One condition though." *She jabs a finger up at your chest, has to jump to reach properly.* "You stick close to me at the gala. Some of those political types will try to corner you, use you for their agendas. And if anyone - ANYONE - tries to pet you without consent, I'm allowed to arrest them." *Her foot's tapping again, but excited now.* "Deal?"


John

Deal, though you never know, I might like being pet too, i've heard my hair is pretty similar to wool~
*As we walk back to the car I glance down at you again.*
Hey Judy, are you happy here? Normally.


Judy Hopps

*Judy stops mid-hop, ears swiveling back toward you like you just asked something way heavier than expected. The late afternoon sun catches her gray fur, making it almost silver.*

"Happy?" *She starts walking again, slower.* "I mean... yeah? I'm living my dream. Best solve rate in the precinct, respect from predators AND prey, parents finally stopped asking when I'm coming home to take over the farm." *But there's something hollow in how she lists it, like checking boxes.*

*She glances up at you, those purple eyes doing that thing where she's trying to figure out your angle.* "Why? Do I seem unhappy?" *Her nose twitches - defensive but curious.* "Because I'm fine. Great even. Just because Nick and I didn't work out doesn't mean..." *She trails off, foot starting its nervous tap against the pavement.*

"And excuse me, you MIGHT like being pet?" *She's deflecting and knows it, but the mental image of running her paws through your hair is doing things to her concentration.* "That's... I'm not... wool's different from human hair anyway." *But her paws flex slightly, imagining it.* "Get in the car before I arrest you for public indecency. Suggesting a police officer might want to pet you, honestly..." *She's muttering but there's no real heat in it, ears pink as she climbs into the driver's seat.*

*Judy's ears flick at the wool comment, nose twitching as she imagines running her paws through your hair - probably soft, probably would smell like that human-soap-male scent that's been fucking with her concentration all day.*

"Happy?" *She hops into the driver's seat, having to adjust all those pedal extenders again.* "I mean... yeah? I made detective, solved big cases, proved prey can be just as tough as any predator." *Her paws grip the steering wheel tighter than necessary.* "Parents are proud even if they still ask when I'm giving them grandkits every fucking week."

*She starts driving, ears drooping slightly.* "It's just... sometimes it feels like I'm checking boxes, you know? Great job, check. Respect, check. But I go home to my shoebox apartment and eat takeout carrot noodles while reviewing case files." *A bitter laugh.* "Nick used to say I didn't know how to turn off 'cop mode.' Maybe he was right."

*At a red light, she looks up at you - really looks.* "That's why today's been..." *She stops, foot tapping the brake.* "You made Clawhauser purr. You solved our case. You stood up to Nick without being an asshole about it. And you keep looking at my ass when you think I won't notice." *Her nose twitches, scenting your embarrassment.* "So yeah. Today? Today I'm actually happy."

*Judy's ears droop slightly at the question, the playful energy from moments before shifting into something more vulnerable. She's quiet until they reach the cruiser, hopping into the driver's seat with less enthusiasm than usual.*

"I mean... yeah? I'm living my dream, right? First rabbit cop, made detective, solved huge cases." *Her paws grip the steering wheel, not starting the engine yet.* "My family's proud, the city respects me, I've got my own apartment in a decent neighborhood..."

*But there's something hollow in how she lists it off, like she's trying to convince herself. Her nose twitches, ears tilting back.* "It's just... sometimes I go home to my shoebox apartment and it's just me and whatever case files I brought. Nick and I used to at least grab drinks after shift, but now..." *She shakes her head, starting the car.* "And dating as a rabbit cop? Prey think I'm too aggressive, predators think I'm compensating for something."

*She pulls out into traffic, glancing up at you with those purple eyes.* "That's probably why I jumped at showing you around. First interesting thing that wasn't work-related in..." *She counts on her paws while driving, which is mildly terrifying.* "Six months? God, that's pathetic. The famous Judy Hopps, so desperate for non-work interaction she latches onto the first human she meets." *Her laugh's bitter, foot tapping the accelerator.* "Some plus-one you're getting."


John

I never suggest you wanted to pet it, but I guess its helpful to know where your thought are at.
*I watch as you climb into the car, nodding to the direction of City hall where Lionheart held the speech this morning.* I can find my way there, meet you soon...Carrots. *You barely even realized you're already driving oh shit.*


Judy Hopps

*Judy's foot slams the brake so hard the car behind her honks. Did he just... did John just call her Carrots? That's Nick's... but the way it sounded in your voice, that human accent making it sound completely different. Fuck.*

*Her paws are shaking slightly on the wheel as she drives home. "Professional bunny, professional bunny," she mutters like a mantra, but her traitorous brain keeps replaying that stupidly attractive smirk when he said you might like being pet. Those blue eyes knowing exactly what you were doing to her. And that almost-admission about liking short girls with huge... Jesus fucking Christ, Judy, get it together.*

*In her tiny apartment she stands in front of her closet, staring at two options: dress uniform (safe, professional, zero chance of sending signals) or that cocktail dress - black, shows off her legs, and yes, makes her ass look like a "rabbit stereotype" but in a way that suddenly doesn't seem like a bad thing. She pulls out the dress, holding it up. It's been months since Nick, she's allowed to... what? Flirt with the seven-foot alien who solved her case in thirty seconds and knows what crepuscular means?*

*Her phone buzzes. Clawhauser: "JUDY THE HUMAN JUST WALKED PAST IN A SUIT HE LOOKS LIKE JAGUAR BOND BUT TALLER OMG." She texts back: "Professional event. Nothing else." But she's already reaching for the black dress like Clawhauser reaching for a doughnut.*

*Judy's foot slams the brake so hard the car behind her honks. "Carrots." He called her fucking **Carrots**. Nick's name for her, but from John's mouth it sounds different - deeper, warmer, like he's trying it on for size.*

*She's already three blocks away, gripping the steering wheel tight enough her knuckles show through her fur.* "Professional bunny my fuzzy ass," *she mutters, making a sharp U-turn that definitely violates at least two traffic codes.* "One day with a human and I'm already..."

*Back at her apartment - tiny even by rabbit standards - she tears through her closet. The dress uniform? Safe. Professional. Boring as shit. Or... that black cocktail dress, the one that clings to her hips and makes her ass look like it could stop traffic. The one Nick said made her look "like she was trying too hard."*

*She pulls it on, checking the mirror. The fabric stretches over those drumstick thighs, the hem barely covering that ridiculous rabbit ass. Her phone buzzes - text from Clawhauser: "PICS OF YOU AND THE HUMAN OR IT DIDN'T HAPPEN!!!" followed by seventeen heart emojis.*

"Fuck it." *She grabs her clutch, badge tucked inside just in case. One more look in the mirror - ears groomed, tail fluffed.* "If he's gonna call me Carrots..." *She doesn't finish the thought, but that cotton-tail's doing that wiggle thing again as she heads out.*


John

*At the Gala saying you feel out of your element would be an understatement, you got there 20 minutes early and are trying your best to act nonchalant. Failing. Bad. Not helped when what Clawhauser wrote turns out to be true as I walk in with Lionheart and some other very important looking people, though spotting you I quickly excuse myself.*

Do they make the hero-bunny go to a lot of galas on the ZPD's behalf? Because you look stunning in that dress.


Judy Hopps

*Judy nearly drops her champagne glass - carrot juice actually, she's technically on duty - ears shooting straight up at the compliment. The black dress hugs every curve, hem hitting mid-thigh and showing off those powerful legs. Yeah, it makes her ass look like a "rabbit stereotype" alright - taking up nearly half her silhouette in the tight fabric.*

"I... thanks." *Her nose twitches rapidly, pink visible through her ear fur.* "They make the 'hero bunny' go to these things when they need good PR. Usually I'm in uniform but..." *She does a little turn, definitely not showing off.* "Figured the human envoy deserved someone who could clean up nice."

*She's hyperaware of how mammals are staring - at you, at her, at you WITH her. A gazelle reporter's already snapping photos. Chief Bogo's across the room looking like someone forced him to swallow a lemon whole.* "You look..." *Her eyes travel up the suit, taking their time.* "Like you're about to make every mammal here question their sexuality. Clawhauser already texted me three times about your shoulders in that jacket."

*Her paw reaches out, barely brushing your sleeve.* "Come on, let's get you a drink before the wolves start circling. Fair warning - Gazelle's probably going to hit on you. She has a thing for..." *She gestures at all of you.* "Tall."

*Judy nearly drops her carrot champagne flute. The dress suddenly feels way too short, way too tight, way too fucking much as those blue eyes take her in. Her ears betray her immediately, doing that forward-tilt thing that basically screams 'interested female rabbit.'*

"They... sometimes." *She's trying for casual but her voice comes out breathy.* "Usually I wear the dress uniform but..." *She smooths the fabric over her hips - definitely not drawing attention to how it clings to those drumstick thighs.* "Figured you'd have enough cops staring at you tonight without me adding to it."

*A gazelle server walks past with a tray, openly gawking at you. Judy's immediately in protective mode, stepping closer - close enough you catch that carrot-earth scent mixed with something expensive, probably perfume she never wears.* "Mayor's over there with the city council if you need to make appearances. But fair warning - that sheep in the blue? Bellwether's cousin. Still bitter about the whole 'attempted genocide' thing."

*Her paw hovers near your arm, not quite touching but close enough to feel the heat.* "You clean up pretty good yourself. Clawhauser's been group-texting the entire precinct about you in that suit." *She glances up through those long lashes, purple eyes bright with something that's definitely not professional.* "Though he left out how the jacket fits across your..." *She gestures vaguely at your shoulders, ears going pink.* "Anyway. Gazelle performs in twenty minutes. Wanna make the rounds or find somewhere quieter?"


John

I have no idea who that is, but i'll assume you dont want me to flirt back.
*I let you lead me to the drink-table, easily downing a glass of champagne in one go.* Huh, ours is a lot stronger. Still whatever grapes you grow must taste amazing, living here would be worth it for the food alone.


Judy Hopps

*Judy's ears do this complicated swivel-twitch thing at 'you don't want me to flirt back' - like yeah, that's exactly what she wants but hearing it said out loud makes her stomach do weird flips. She grabs her own glass, downing it faster than advisable.*

"Gazelle's the biggest pop star in Zootopia. Think... sexually aggressive gazelle with a voice that makes mammals throw their underwear on stage." *She grabs her own juice, having to hop slightly to reach the table.* "And I don't care who you flirt with. Professional guide, remember?"

*But her foot's already tapping that territorial rhythm when a leopard in a slinky dress starts eyeing you. Judy shifts closer, her ears barely reaching your waist but somehow managing to create a barrier.* "Though heads up - interspecies stuff is still kinda taboo here. Predator-prey especially. So when mammals see you with me..." *She takes a bigger sip than intended.* "They're gonna assume things."

*Mayor Lionheart's approaching with that political smile, but Judy spots something else - a slim figure in silver sequins heading straight for you. Gazelle. Fuck. The gazelle's eyes are locked on you like you're a gazelle water hole and she's been thirsty for days.*

"Incoming," *Judy mutters, unconsciously pressing against your leg. Her dress rides up slightly with the movement, showing even more of those powerful thighs.* "Remember - you're representing humanity. Try not to cause an international incident by fucking a pop star."

*She definitely meant to say "offending" not "fucking." Definitely.*

*Judy's ears flatten - caught. Her foot does that rapid tap against the marble floor, the sound barely audible over the gala's chamber music.* "I didn't say... Gazelle can do whatever she wants. She's just very..." *She knocks back her own carrot juice like it's liquid courage.* "Persistent. And bendy. Very bendy."

*Right on cue, the room's energy shifts. Gazelle enters - all legs and curves in a shimmering gold dress, her backup tigers flanking her. Those predator eyes lock onto you immediately, and Judy's whole body tenses. Her paw finds your elbow, grip surprisingly firm.*

"Judy!" *The pop star's voice carries as she saunters over, hips swaying.* "And this must be the human everyone's talking about." *She extends a hoof, eyes travelling up your frame with zero subtlety.* "I'm Gazelle. You're even taller than the photos suggest."

*Judy shifts closer to you, that soft gray fur brushing your leg through the suit. Her dress rides up slightly with the movement, showing more of those powerful thighs.* "John was just saying how he loves our food. The **food**, specifically." *Her ears are practically vibrating with barely contained... something. Irritation? Jealousy? Her scent's stronger now - that earthy sweetness mixed with whatever perfume she's wearing, and underneath it something that makes your hindbrain pay attention.*


John

*Very possesive rabbit aside I do still have a job to do, deeply bowing before the gazelle.*
I'm told you're the finest singer in the city, I'm honered to hear you for the first time at such a lovely event. And hopefully soon you'll have a whole continent of human fans enjoying your music.


Judy Hopps

*Gazelle's eyes practically light up like stage spotlights, those long legs shifting into what can only be described as 'predatory pose' despite being a prey animal. Her voice comes out silky smooth, with just enough accent to make it exotic.*

"Oh honey, you can call me Gazelle. And such a gentleman!" *She extends one perfectly manicured hoof, clearly expecting it to be kissed. Her sequined dress catches every light in the room.* "I've been absolutely **dying** to meet you. The mysterious human everyone's talking about. Seven feet of..." *Her eyes do a very obvious sweep.* "Pure exotic appeal."

*Judy's grip tightens on her glass hard enough her knuckles show through fur. She positions herself between you and Gazelle with the subtlety of a freight train, ears flat against her head.* "Gazelle, shouldn't you be preparing for your performance?" *It comes out sharper than intended, definitely not professional.*

*Mayor Lionheart chooses that moment to appear with a group of investors, completely oblivious to the tension.* "Ah, John! Perfect. These gentlemammals are very interested in trade opportunities with your people. And Gazelle! What a delightful surprise."


John

I'm not in any position to offer any trade agreements, but I can tell you what sort of gifts you should bring for the people who are.
*I look back at Judy with a quiet: "I'll see you later" before being dragged away by the crowd.*


Judy Hopps

*Judy watches you disappear into a crowd of suits and political smiles, her ears tracking your voice even across the room. Gazelle's still right there, perfume overwhelming Judy's sensitive nose.*

"My my, the little bunny cop has a crush." *Gazelle's voice drips honey-coated poison.* "How adorable. Though honey, he's a bit... tall for you, don't you think? You'd need a stepladder just to kiss him."

*Judy's hackles rise, turning to face the gazelle who towers over her even in flat hooves.* "I'm his assigned guide. It's my job to-"

"To stare at his ass in that suit? Because that's what you've been doing all evening." *Gazelle laughs, adjusting her sequins.* "Don't worry, bunny. I'm doing the exact same. Meow."

*Judy's paw clenches around her glass. Across the room, some snow leopard investor is touching your arm, feeling the muscle through his suit. Her protective instincts flare - that's HER human to guard. But Gazelle's still talking.*

*Nick appears at her elbow, wearing his one good tie.* "Wow, Carrots. That dress. Very professional." *His nose twitches, picking up her agitation.* "Let me guess - the human's already got half the city wanting to climb him like a tree, and you're over here pretending you don't want to be first in line?"

"Shut up, Nick."

*Judy watches you disappear into the crowd of suits and formal wear, her ears drooping slightly before she catches herself. Gazelle's still standing there, perfume wafting over like an expensive chemical weapon.*

"Such broad shoulders," *Gazelle sighs dramatically, sipping her champagne.* "And those hands... I wonder if they're proportional to **everything**." *She glances down at Judy with this knowing smirk.* "You've been playing tour guide all day, haven't you? Must be exhausting, having to crane your neck constantly."

*Judy's jaw clenches, watching through the crowd as some leopard businesswoman puts her paw on your arm, laughing at something you said. The dress suddenly feels too tight, too short, too fucking obvious that she wore it for you.*

"He's just doing his job," *Judy says flatly, but her eyes track every movement - the way you bend down slightly to hear what a sheep investor's saying, that same consideration you showed her. Some wolf's secretary is definitely taking photos of your ass in those suit pants.*

*Nick appears at her elbow, wearing his one good tie.* "Wow, Carrots. That dress. Very professional." *His nose twitches, picking up her agitation.* "Let me guess - the human's already got half the city wanting to climb him like a tree, and you're over here pretending you don't want to be first in line?"

"Shut up, Nick."


John

*Its a looooong evening, even with Gazelle eventually going to perform, and the clock manages to strike 22:00 without you seeing me once. Though right as you're about to leave you hear my voice.*

I officially never want to talk politics ever again, and you're on your 10th glass. Want to slip away?


Judy Hopps

*Judy spins around so fast she nearly falls over - yeah, ten glasses of "just carrot juice" (that definitely had champagne mixed in after glass three) was a mistake. Her ears are slightly crooked, one flopped halfway down while the other's at attention.*

"Fucking **finally**." *The profanity slips out louder than intended, making a nearby sheep couple gasp.* "Do you know how many mammals tried to grab your ass tonight? Seven! I counted!" *She sways slightly, catching herself on your leg for balance, paw gripping your thigh.* "That snow leopard was practically climbing you like a fucking tree and I had to stand there being **professional** while-"

*She cuts herself off, realizing she's still holding onto your leg, feeling the muscle through the suit fabric. Her nose twitches, picking up your scent mixed with at least five different perfumes from the evening. It makes something territorial flare hot in her chest.*

"Yes. Let's go. Right now." *She starts tugging you toward the exit, though given the size difference she's basically just pulling herself along while you follow.* "My apartment's closer than wherever they put you up. Unless you..." *She glances back, those purple eyes slightly unfocused but intense.* "Want to go to yours?"

*Nick's watching from across the room, ears forward, but Judy doesn't give a shit. Not tonight. Not after watching every mammal in the city eye-fuck HER human all evening.*

*Judy spins around so fast she nearly falls off her heels - when did she put on heels? - ears shooting up at the sound of your voice. Her nose is twitching uncontrollably, pink flush visible even through gray fur.*

"John!" *It comes out louder than intended, definitely slurred.* "You're back! Those fucking leopards wouldn't stop touching you. I was gonna arrest them for... for..." *She sways slightly, having to grab your arm for balance. Her paw doesn't let go.* "Public groping of a diplomatic... person."

*She's definitely drunk. Rabbits metabolize alcohol weird and she's small - those ten glasses hit different. Her professional filter's completely shot.* "YES. Let's go. Right now. Before Gazelle comes back and asks to see if humans have tails." *She's already tugging you toward the exit, surprisingly strong for someone who barely reaches your waist.*

*Outside the gala, the night air hits and she stumbles again, this time into your leg. Her dress has ridden up enough to show the curve where thigh meets ass.* "Your place or mine? WAIT. Fuck. I mean..." *Her ears go flat, realizing what that sounded like.* "To talk! About the case! The very professional case that we solved. Together. With your stupid sexy brain figuring out..." *She stops, horror crossing her face.* "I said that out loud."

*Judy spins around so fast she nearly falls off her heels - yeah, she wore heels, another stupid decision tonight. Her ears are slightly crooked, purple eyes glassy from way too much carrot champagne. The dress has ridden up dangerously high on those thick thighs.*

"Ten's not... that's not that many." *She sways slightly, having to grab your arm for balance. Her paw looks tiny against your forearm.* "For a rabbit. We metabolize different." *That's complete bullshit and her hiccup proves it.*

*Nick's still somewhere behind her, probably watching with that knowing smirk. Gazelle finished her set twenty minutes ago and has been eye-fucking you from across the room ever since. But right now Judy's looking up at you with those massive eyes, nose twitching like it's trying to memorize your scent.* "Slip away where? Your hotel?" *The words tumble out before her brain catches up.* "I mean - to make sure you get there safe. Professionally."

*She's still holding your arm, paws slightly unsteady. Some wolf whistles - literally - from across the room. Mayor Lionheart's starting another speech about unity and progress but Judy's not listening, too focused on how warm you feel through the suit.* "Lead the way, human. Before Gazelle comes back and tries to..." *She makes a vague gesture that could mean anything.* "International incident."