Sing Amelia - Blog Posts
Loved the story and art peices!!!
Scars from the Past
A little story on how Amelia recieved her chipped ear and a dive into her relationship with Johnny's family Introducing three new characters, Amelia's parents and Johnny's mother. And a glimpse at a 7yo Johnny.
"Congratulations, Inspector Holmes!"
Amelia squeaked as Marcus grabbed her into a bear (or this case) gorilla tight hug and squeezed.
"We're so proud!"
"Marc, dear, let her breathe." Marcus's wife, Sofie, warned as she joined her husband along with their 7 year old son, Johnny.
It was Amelia's ceremony at the London city hall where she had just received her new rank and title of Inspector, one the first female and youngest animals to be under this rank. She had invited her parents, Tim and Jill and of course, her old school mate, Marcus, his wife Sofie and their young son, Johnny.
Her parents, a bear and a puma took her into a group. "That's my girl!" Tim smiled.
"We're so proud of you, darling!" Jill said.
"Couldn't have succeeded without you guys." Amelia said.
"Sure you could've! You got your ol' dad's can do attitude!" Tim said. He then peered at his watch. "Wish we could take you to lunch, sweetheart, but me and your mum gotta catch the train back to Kent."
"I love you, guys." Amelia said, giving them one final nuzzle. "I'll be up to visit next week."
"Don't worry, Mr. Holmes," Marcus assured. "We're make sure she's eaten before her shift!"
"You be safe, dear." Jill said, kissing the top of her adopted daughter's head.
"Always, mum."
After waving good bye to her parents, Amelia felt Johnny tugging at her blazer. She smiled as she picked him up. "How's it going, Johnny boy?"
"Can we go eat now?" Johnny asked.
The three adults laughed.
"Sounds like a plan! So, mates, how about The White Lion?"
"Marc, that's a pub." Sofie laughed. "What about Johnny?"
"What about him? It's civilized! Especially since we got London's most well respected Inspector!"
"You flatter me, Marcus." Amelia chuckled.
"We really are proud of you, love!" Sofie said, hugging her.
"Thanks, now let's go! I'm starved!"
"Yay! White Lion!" Johnny cheered.
__________________________________________
Once settled in the pub at a table in the corner, furthest from the bar, Johnny took his cup and began to tip it towards his mouth before Amelia stopped him.
"You're about to drench yourself, sport."
"I'm a big boy now!" Johnny said.
"Ha! That's my son! Growing up more every day!" Marcus said. Then he raised his mug. "To Amelia Holmes! London's greatest Detective!"
Amelia shook her head as she raised her own glass. "To Marcus, London's greatest mechanic and Sofie, London's greatest piano teacher."
"And you said I couldn'tteach you." Sofie chuckled. "You were a fine student. Are you excited about your first shift as Inspector?" Sofie asked.
"Sure! Won't be any different, though. I'm still on the graveyard shift, so I'll probably catch a quick nap before I go in. Just means more paperwork really." Amelia laughed.
"Are you still coming to Elton John concert with us next week?" Sofie asked.
"Absolutely!"
A yelp drew their attention to Johnny who had spilled his drink over his shirt.
"I spilled it."
Amelia laughed as she wiped his shirt with a paper towl. "I told you, sport."
"I'm sorry."
"No worries, kid. Accidents happen right?"
"Right."
"And what do we do when an accident happens?"
Johnny seemed to think for a moment before answering. "Keep a cool head and stay calm?"
"Bingo."
"Can I have fish and chips?" Johnny pleaded.
"Wouldn't you rather try something new today?" Sofie asked. "We want Johnny to have a wider range of food." She explained to Amelia."
"Good luck, I say. Boy's like his father, sticks to what he likes."
"I can get the bangers and mash and he can nibble some of my plate. This pub always gives bigger portions then needed."
"Where's that leave me? If I can't eat off my 2nd wife's plate, what'll I'll eat?"
Amelia looked stunned and offened. "Marcus! Are... are you telling me I'm the SIDE CHICK?"
Sofie nearly spat out her drink. "I thought that was me?"
Marcus held up his hands. "Now, Mia, we spoke about this. Since Sofie had my child, it's only right you be the 'side chick'."
Amelia huffed and Sofie laughed. "It's alright, Mia, you can be my 1st wife."
The fox smiled. "At least SOMEONE loves me."
Johnny grabbed ger arm. "I love you, Aunt Mia!"
Amelia laughed as she hugged him back. "And I love you, squirt!"
_____________________________________________
"Holmes."
Amelia looked up to see her Chief, a polar bear named Stone, standing in the doorway to her new office.
"Yes, sir?"
"Saddle up, Inspector, we're going to investigate a break-in at the jewelry store in West Pup-lar."
Amelia frowned. "You don't suppose it's our little jewelry thief again? We haven't heard from him in months. "
"That's what we're going to find out."
It didn't take long to arrive to their destination. The jewelry store in question, Amelia discovered, was more like a large warehouse where the jewels were kept until sent to their sellers.
She, along with Chief Stone and two constables, a lynx named Noland and a rhino named Hornsby, carefully made their way to the back entrance. Each armed with a weapon as well a flashlight, Stone signaled to Noland and Hornsby who then veered away from the group. He signaled to Amelia who slinked away to the left whilst Stone went right.
The ground flood was covered in various boxes, crates and glass containers which held precious stones and rubies.
The group silently made their way through the maze, keeping a watchful eye.
Amelia came to a corner where she noticed a bolt that lay discarded on the floor. Curious, she leaned down and looked around. The ground was somewhat dirty, so she was surprised to see a clean area just a few away, almost as though someone moved an item from that area. She glanced around and saw a box that fit the area and walked over. She peered behind it and found a vent, it's cover off and three more screws identical to one on the floor.
Suddenly, she heard the faintest tinkle, as though jewels were being rubbed against each other.
"Inspector?" Noland whispered as he came around the corner."
Amelia put a finger to her lips, ordering him to remain silent. The sound stopped and another sound arose. Amelia squinted at the glass in front of her and her heart stopped. In the glass was the reflection on a large badger pointing a weapon at them.
"Look out!" She cried, grabbing Noland and forcing him down just as the shot ran out.
Amelia felt searing hot pain hit her ear and felt as though it had exploded. She clenched her teeth and grabbed her own weapon but as she went to aim, the badger had ran off.
Clutching her ear, Amelia pulled Noland up and they chased after the thief.
"Chief! Circle around the middle! Hornsby! Cut him off at the back!" Amelia ordered as best she could.
The badger, in this case, literally had the high ground and was running across the boxes, high above and away from the patrol. He fired his weapon once, nearly missing Chief Stone.
...1...2... his gun only has 6 rounds, he's got 4 left, Amelia thought to herself.
Another shot rang out.
That's 3.
The badger was gaining speed atop the crates.
"Hornsby! Get me up there!" Amelia cried.
The rhino halted and bent his head down, allowing Amelia to grab his horn as he swept her up. Amelia landed atop a crate and scrambled after the badger.
The badger turned and yelped when he saw Amelia gaining on him.
He fired.
Amelia dodged.
4...5, Amelia mentally counted.
The badger halted. He had run out crate. He was surrounded. He raised his weapon
The 6th and final shot fired, striking Amelia's coat.
He fired an empty barrel.
Amelia launched herself towards him, grabbing his waist as they fell together, right into a glass cabinet.
Glass shards sprinkled onto the floor as Chief Stone and the 2 constables shielded there eyes.
Once the air was calm, Stone made his way to the cabinet where he found their jewelery thief restrained by their new Inspector.
"Well done, Holmes!" He cried.
Amelia managed the faintest salute and Stone's look of pride turned to fear. "Hold on, officer. We're going to get you some help."
Hornsby helped Amelia out whilst Noland secured the prisoner.
Stone frowned as Amelia could barely keep her balance, her fur covered in glass. He helped her to the ground and yelled for Hornsby to radio an ambulance.
Amelia couldn't remember much afterwards.
_________________________________________
Amelia awoke to a sharp pain to her right ear. She attempted to sit up before she was gently stopped by a firm paw.
"Not so fast, Holmes."
"Sir? What happened?"
"We caught the jewelery thief, thanks to you." Stone explained. "Unfortunately, you were shot in the ear. The doctors just got done wrapping it. They managed to pull a number of glass from your body as well."
Amelia put a paw to her ear and felt the rough patch of bandage bound to it.
"Did they say anything about my hearing?" She asked.
"You'll keep it. But it took out a clip of your ear."
Before Amelia could reply, a nurse walked in with her chart.
Stone patted her shoulder and stood. "I'll leave you to it."
Once Chief Stone had left, the nurse turned to Amelia. "Okay, so your ear will require re-dressing at least 3 times a day, as well as re-bandaging twice a day. Once in morning, once at night. Oh, and we've called your emergency contact-"
Amelia looked up. "My emergency contact? You called Marcus?"
The nurse looked down at his clipboard. "Yes, that appears to be his name. We-"
"You shouldn't have done that."
The nurse raised an eyebrow in obvious confusion before they heard a scream and a commotion.
The uproar became louder before Marcus appeared at the door way, panting and angered. "Where is she? If she's hurt bad, you lot are gonna have a full morgue in a few hours." He locked eyes with Amelia and relief filled his own. "Thank goodness. What happened? I ain't never letting you outta my sight again."
The nurse peered from behind Marcus. "Your husband I presume?"
Amelia laughed. "Hardly. A good friend."
Marcus huffed. "Best friend, actually. And I might as well your husband. And our wife ain't gonna be thrilled you being hurt on your first night." He turned to the nurse. "If everything's in order, I'll take her home." He turned back to Amelia. "Come on, Sofie's got the spare bedroom fixed up."
Amelia flicked her injured ear and hissed in pain. "Marcus, I am still fully capable of living on my own and doing my job. There is absolutely no need for me to stay with you lot."
Marcus glanced at the nurse. "Is that true?"
"Oh, yes. Provided of course she follow these care instructions. Re-dressing 3 times a day, bandaging-"
Marcus raised an eyebrow, glaring at Amelia. "Yeah, you're coming home with me."
_________________________________
"Mia! Thank goodness you're all right!" Sofie cried, hugging the fox as soon as she entered the house.
"Aunt Mia!" Johnny cried as he came flying in and latched himself to Amelia's middle.
"This is hardly necessary." Amelia tried to argue but Sofie stopped her.
"Nonsense. We've already contacted your parents nad told them you'd be staying with us for a few days. I've spoken to Marcus and I have a copy of your care sheets. We'll have you in tip top shape in no time."
"Mia, you're about as great at self care as Johnny was changin' his diapers as a newborn." Marcus said.
Johnny scrunched up his nose. "I don't need diapers anymore. I'm a big boy."
"You're right, lad! 7 years old!"
Johnny crossed his arms. "I'm seven and a HALF, Daddy."
Amelia smiled before she glanced at the hallway mirror. Her ear was wrapped in gauze and already had a splotch of red poking through. How big would the scar be? No doubt enough to change it's appearance. She attempted to settle in to the fact that she was indeed disfigured for life.
Sofie must have noticed her discomfort for she led Amelia away from the mirror. "You'll always be beautiful to us." She assured.
Amelia managaed a small smile.
Marcus walked in with Johnny on his hip a phone in his hand. "Pizza's ordered! Say, love, how about some music to celebrate Mia's first night?"
The female gorilla beamed as she sat down to their piano. "Brilliant! Any requests?"
"Hot potato! Hot potato!" Johnny cried, leaping from his father's arm.
"He's been watching the Wiggles non-stop." Marcus explained.
Johnny joined his mother on the bench. "Can I play piano with you, Mama?" He asked.
"Of course, my darling." She patted the spot next to her and Johnny jumped up. Sofie began to strike the keys and Johnny immediately fell in sync with her rhythm.
Amelia smiled at the boy's natural talent.
In a few moments, they were playing the lively tune to Don't Go Breaking my Heart.
"Don't go breaking my heart!" Sofie began.
"I couldn't if I tried!" Marcus continued.
"Oh, honey, if I get restless!"
"Baby you're not that kind!"
Marcus took Amelia by the paw and began to twirl her. "Don't go breaking my heart!" Marcus sang.
Amelia laughed as she joined. "You take the weight off of me!"
As the two danced, Sofie and Johnny played on. The small lad applied his own voice. "Honey when you knock on my door!!!"
Sofie giggled as she headbutted her son. "Ooh, I gave you my key!"
Marcus then grabbed his wife into a dance whilst Amelia took her place at the piano with Johnny. Johnny ceased his playing and hugged her tight. Amelia smiled as she returned the embrace and together they continued to match their notes to the tune.
The group embraced each other's company as all four joined the chorus, their voices rising together in song and into the night.
Hope you liked it. Also, bonus, a little shot of Amelia's adoption day,
@phoenix-the-mistfit-fire-bird I love this pic, It certainly goes well with your story.
Chasing Chaos Pg4
No art this time. Kinda lost motivation for it, 😕
But enjoy this chapter. Fair warning: This is a LOOONNG one. I debated on making it a two parter, but decided not. And little bit of Eddie being out of character.
It was nearly 7 in the morning by the time Amelia finally got in contact with Suki Lane. The dog sounded as tired as she was, but was coherent enough to answer Mia's questions.
"How many wolves would you say."
"Four or so. Five including Crimson."
"How did Buster seem? Was he hurt?"
"No, he seemed fine before they took him. A little winded, maybe. I'm sorry I haven't been able to talk sooner. The police found me unconscious in our bus. I've been nursing a concussion since then."
"I understand and I'm sorry. You must be worried sick about Porsha."
"You have no idea. I wasn't too happy to be placed on baby-sitter duty, but she's really grown up and taken on more responsibility. I'm proud of her. I think we've been good for each other. She definitely keeps me on my toes."
"Well, miss Lane, I promise I'll keep contact and deliver any news we may receive."
"Thank you so much, Detective."
Amelia hung up and glanced at the desk.
The Red Shore Police had yet provide anymore information. Two days had passed and still no ransom note.
Meanwhile, downstairs, the rest of the gang had arrived and were waiting anxiously for Mia's news. Judy had left and returned to Zootopia to see about getting more info.
Ash was sitting alone in the back of the theater, looking worriedly at her phone. Hoping for a call or even a message from Buster to let them know he was okay. To let her know. But no notifications arrived. Instead, the device sat, silently in her shaking paws.
"Ash?"
The porcupine looked up to see Meena. "Are you okay?"
Ash quickly wiped a lose tear and cleared her throat. "Yeah, yeah, I'm fine, don't worry."
"You don't look fine."
"It's nearly been 2 days..." Ash admitted.
"I know."
"Why hasn't he called? Or texted? What if that animal found out Dad- Buster was in the car and, and-"
Meena lay her paw on Ash's shoulder and she calmed a bit, taking a deep breath. Meena took this a sign and gave her a tight hug which Ash returned. The elephant then went and sat beside her. "We're going to get our dad back."
Gunter watched this scene from his spot on stage and frowned. "That dinklesplat will pay for this." He muttered.
"You're right."
Gunter looked up, not knowing anyone had heard him, and his eyes met Clay's. The old rockstar was sporting his leather jacket and held his helmet tightly in his paws.
"That, that, dinkle- whatever ya called him WILL pay for this. Your pal's been through a lot this year, no doubt 'bout that. But he always come through, doesn't he?"
"Well... jà ." Gunter admitted.
"I'll bet by this time tomorrow, he'll be back on this stage, with his usual optimistic attitude and ordering us around." Marcus said as he approached.
Gunter chuckled. "Jà , perhaps you're right. But, tomorrow... seems like a long time away, jà ?"
"Only a day away."
The dancer smiled at the Moon Theater's Security guard's unusual change in personality. A hopeful one.
"So how are you holding up, stud?" Clay asked. "I talked to Ash as soon as I found out and made my way out here. To offer any support."
"That's... that's good of you." Gunter said.
"We're... not great."
"It's been a difficult few days." Marcus admitted.
Rosita was having problems of her own. She sighed as her phone went to voicemail. Eddie was ignoring them, which worried her greatly. No telling what he was planning. He could have gone off in search of Buster alone.
Desperate, she tried one more time. Suddenly, he answered. "Yes, Rosita. "
"Eddie! Thank goodness. Where are you?"
___________________________________________
Eddie looked up at the theater entrance. "At my place." He lied.
"Are you okay?" Rosita asked.
"I'm fine. Listen, my parents are calling me, gotta go."
"But-"
Eddie hung up and snuck to the back entrance. He could hear the theater gang talking and moving around near the stage area. Quietly, he snuck up the stairs to Buster's office and softly opened the door.
Mia looked up at as he entered and her tired expression turned to one of annoyance as well as concern. "Where have you been?"
Eddie ignored her. "Any news?"
"On Buster's situation? Yes, have you had been here, I would have gladly-"
"The only thing I want to know about that guy is whether or not I can fit my hands around his neck."
The fox raised an eyebrow. "Watch yourself, Noodleman, I may be a friend, but I am still an officer of the law."
Eddie's attitude suddenly changed. "Then what I am supposed to do, DETECTIVE!? Because you're obviously not helping! I asked you down to help! And you haven't moved from this room!"
"We have no whereabouts on the suspects. I am doing what I can."
"That's not good enough!"
Mia raised a paw to calm him. "Noodleman-"
"Shut up!" Eddie then did something Mia believed he didn't have the nerve for. He grabbed her by her coat and brought her over the desk with strength the fox had no idea he possessed. "You gotta help him! Do your job!"
SMACK!
Eddie blinked as he sat up the floor. He was strong, but Mia was stronger. Having had enough, she slapped him away. Regaining her composer, she stared Eddie as he recovered from his shock. "If you don't get a hold of yourself, I'll inject you with a sedative." She growled.
The sheep nodded and as he relaxed, Mia got a good look at him. He had bags under his eyes and his cheeks were puffy, possibly from crying.
"Sit down." She ordered.
Eddie nodded as he picked himself and sat himself down on the couch.
Amelia could tell something was bothering him. "What is it?"
"What?"
"Buster has been in situations like this before, what makes this any different? Why are you acting as you are now?"
Eddie frowned.
"Noodleman."
"I got a phone call."
Mia felt her blood boil, but she immediately caught herself. In the state he was in now, Mia needed to remain calm. As if she were feeding a bird, Amelia needed to tread carefully. "And... what, you didn't think contacting us would be a good idea...?" She asked, her accent becoming stronger as she spoke.
"It was from Buster's phone, but it wasn't him. I didn't recognize the voice."
"And?"
"Well... I over heard it saying 'it'sthe koala's phone' and another voice said 'they know we're in Red Shore'. After that, I... I heard someone laugh and i heard the word, faintly, but I heard 'kill'. And that's when the call ended..."
"We could have traced the call, did you think of that?"
"My worries were on Buster at the moment." Eddie defended. "I think they're gonna kill him!"
"Calm down." Mia ordered. Then she took a deep breath. "You should have told me."
"Buster's MY friend."
Mia felt her ear twitch with impatience. With the fuzzy feeling in her head, she looked Eddie dead in the eye. "Let's not cross that bridge again, Noodleman. It's already started to crumble, let's not shatter in entirely."
Eddie frowned as he looked away.
"You haven't apologized to them yet, have you." It was more a statement then a question as Mia raised an eyebrow.
"No."
"You'd better do it now. You withheld vital information. Apologizing to the cast will be your punishment."
Eddie looked up. "Punishment?! I'm not the one-"
"With that call we could have traced it back to Buster. You kept it to yourself. Those animals down there was sitting and shaking, worrying just as much as you. You owe this to them, Eddie."
"They shot back!"
Mia growled in frustration. "Fine. If you want to mope about, be my guest, Noodleman. I came here to solve a case, not to mend a wound that shouldn't have been made in the first place." The fox then sighed. "Leave, Noodleman. I'll keep you posted on updates."
The sheep frowned as he stood. With a huff, he exited, slamming the door shut on his way out. He was planning on exiting the back way when he heard a familiar, deep voice.
"Where do ya think you're goin', fluff? Trying to leave without sayin' good bye, are we?" The old gorilla asked.
"I'm leaving, isn't that what you all wanted?"
"Not until I did this."
"Do wha- ARGH!" Eddie yelped as Marcus grabbed his arm and practically dragged Eddie to the stage.
The group turned as the two appeared and they shared awkward glances.
Eddie wasted no time as he stood, heading for the front entrance, but Clay blocked him. "Eddie, wait-" Rosita said, running up.
"Let me pass."
"Go ahead, Mama Rose,, let 'im pass. Nevermind he kept something from you." Marcus said.
"What, what are you talking about?" Rosita asked.
"The sheep here got a phone call, said he over heard strange voices. Kept it from Amelia. Could have been a chance to trace the phone call. But no, Noodleman decides to keep this information for himself."
"Is, is that true?" Ash asked.
"So?" Eddie simply answered.
Gunter pushed Rosita out of the way and grabbed Eddie, tears forming in his eyes. "We're his family! You should have told us."
"You and your band of, of misfits were formed ONLY because of Buster."
"Watch your tongue." Marcus growled.
Johnny, having been watching the scene play out from the shadows, finally made himself known. Quickly, he pulled Gunter away from the sheep. "Enough, you two, you're actin' like children!"
"No! Let Gunter beat him, he kept this from us!" Ash cried.
"NO ONE IS BEATING ANYONE!!"
The group stopped and turned to see Mia standing on stage. "Your arguing is pointless and getting us no where. Bloody hel- you're supposed to be a family. Start acting like it. Buster is missing, possibly in danger. But when we find him, when we save him, he's going to expect a welcome back from his family. His WHOLE family. Eddie, Rosita, Ash, everyone." Mia took a deep breath. "I know. Things are stressful. We're ALL worried about him. But this isn't the time to separate. We must stand together. All of us."
The group settled for a moment, seeming to take in Mia's words. Suddenly, the entrance doors opened and Meena walked in. Despite being absent during the last few minutes, her strong ears heard everything. Shyly she cleared her throat. "I found this on the door." She said, fearfully. "I think it's a ransom note."
The gang watched in silence as Amelia took the envelope and opened it. Her eyes narrowed and a growl rose in her throat.
"Get me Judy Hopps."
_____________________________
Buster frowned as his stomach began to remind him that his last decent meal was too long past. And the fault wasn't only his kidnappers'
He sighed as he remembered all the lectures and speeches Rosita and the others give him about his health. Living on coffee alone wasn't going to help him be the best he could be.
Determination set into his chest. If and when they got out of this mess, he swore that he would be a better, healthier version on himself.
He jumped when he heard the door click open and Lance strolled in. The porcupine was still sporting Buster's gift to him on his cheek. His eyes darkened as he focused on Buster.
Buster smirked. "I knew I made a right choice in not choosing you for my show. Your ugly mug would have scared away my guests."
Porsha winced. "Mister Moo-"
"Shut up, you washed up nobody." Lance snarled. "Ash could've been the NEXT American Rock Star Legend! Why the hell did you stick with you and that rag tag team of misfits!?"
Buster glared. "Because we saw her. We didn't leave her to sing background vocals. We treated her like the amazing kid she was and she blossomed."
Lance yelled as he launched for the koala, but Buster was quicker as he dodged the attack and leapt to the side before he knocked Lance into the wall. "Listen here, Dinklesplat! Ash is not an object you can own! Not a force you can drain! She knows her worth and she won't let any animal tell her she's not valued! Especially a worthless piece of-"
Buster yelped as he felt himself being tugged off the ground by his ear until he was eye level with Crimson. The wolf laughed. "Fiesty little thing, aren't ya?"
Buster shrank back before he saw in the corner of his eye Porsha raise from the ground and stepped towards Crimson. Buster winced as she kicked the wolf where the sun don't shine and Crimson released a pathetic whimper as he dropped to his knees, losing his grip on Buster in the process. Porsha caught him before he hit the ground and held him close. Baring her teeth, she snarled at her cousin and Lance.
Crimson cleared his throat as he struggled to his feet. "We'll be back." He said, his voice strained as he grabbed Lance by his jacket collar and forced him out.
__________________________
"Here, look here."
Nick Wilde glanced to Judy who was busy typing away on their policr cruiser's computer.
"Spikes causes injury to Zootopia Officer. Officer loses eye."
Nick winced. "Ouch. Is he still with the force?"
"Uh... no, it says he retired shortly after the whole ordeal."
"Heads up, Carrots, you're getting a phone call.
Judy looked ar her screen and saw Rosita was the caller. "Hello?"
"Judy!"
"Amelia? Where's Rosita?"
"Right here, we got problems, mate. We got a ransom note. If you're free, I'd appreciate your assistance."
"We'll be there in a hour." Judy assured as she hung up. "Saddled up, slick, they got a ransom note."
___________________________________________
Buster was shaken awake from his slumber and looked up to see Porsha.
"What's up?" He asked, suddenly alert when he saw the panic in her eyes.
"Get up." Lance said, coming into view.
Buster growled as he sat up. "What now."
"In a few hours, you and I are goin' on a little drive."
Porsha shifted behind the koala as Buster stood. "Over my dead body."
Lance chuckled. "I wish." He smiled. "If ya don't do what I say, it won't end well for Ash."
Buster glared.
"What's the plan, spikey?" Crimson growled, walking in.
"Why should you care? My plan doesn't conflict with your own."
"You're using a few of my wolves, I have the right. 'Course, I could take 'em back."
Lance held up his paws. "All right, all right. I see your point, but-" he looked to Porsha "Let's discuss this elsewhere."
The porcupine and the wolf exited, but Buster made his way to the door and applied his ear.
"There's an old bridge between here and Moon's city. It's not being used because it's under construction, or was anyway. There's access to and across, but the ground is unstable. They quit working on it a few months back. Completely abandoned. My plan is to meet with them in the car with Buster. They'll bring Ash, an arguement will happen, ect, ect. I convince Ash that no harm will come to Buster if she came with me. She agrees, I get her in the car, we jump in. And that's when your guys come in. That's when we permanently get rid of the showman."
Buster swallowed.
"Yeah? And how ya gonna know they ain't gonna plan somethin' to get out of this?"
"They're idiots, believe me. And besides, they won't risk it with their friends' lives on the line."
"Mister Moon?" Porsha asked. "What can you hear?"
The koala frowned. "Nothing important." He said. I have to find a phone, Ash is danger, he thought to himself.
His ears picked up another sound. The sound of sobbing. He turned to face the young wolf that sat mere feet from him.
"I'm scared, Mister Moon." She said.
Buster made his way to her. "I know, kid. Me too."
"Are they going to kill us?"
The theater director frowned as he took her paw.
Porsha wiped her tears and let out a shuddering breath. "My dad wasn't always a shrewd businessman..."
Buster sat down to listen.
"We actually used to have a close relationship. He'd take me to the beach, to get ice cream, the movies. Once we were at the beach and I was hunting for sea shells when this huge wave came and knocked me down. The wave started to pull me into the water and I was super scared. But Dad rescued me just in time. I was a mess, but he was too. I don't think I'd seen him so scared. We didn't go to the beach for sometime after that. But he took me for ice cream after it."
Porsha sniffed. "When his business started taking off, he started having less and less time for me."
Buster patted her paw, gently.
"How do you know that jerk?"
The question took the koala by surprise.
"Well, he was Ash's boyfriend when I asked her to join the show."
"Ash dated that guy?"
"Believe it or not, she actually liked him. When they first auditioned, he sounded like claws on a chalkboard. But Ash had potential. So I told Ash she was in and he was out. And let me tell you, neither were happy."
Porsha pulled her legs to her chest as she listened.
"Anyway, Ash came back and it wasn't long before she found out that Lance was cheating on her."
"That's horrible!'
"Actually a blessing in disguise, if you can believe. It led Ash down a road to self discovery, and led her to write her very first song. She found self worth and self respect. She never lets any guy telk what she is or isn't worth." Buster sighed, proudly. "She's really grown up. And I couldn't be more prouder."
"So what happened after?"
Buster shifted uncomfortably. "Well, Lance wouldn't let up after he saw her first performance. Started stalking her. Got to the point where Ash was so terrified, I let her stay at my apartment."
"You must love her a lot."
"Well, I never thought of having kids before. The theater was everything to me." Buster reached for his wallet that was in his blazer and pulled out a picture he had of each if his crew members. He gazed at the one he and Ash were in, celebrating her first album. "Now my family is. Thanks to the show, I gained three kids." He smiled at Porsha. "And after Red Shore, I realized I gained one more."
___________________________________________
"....have Ash drive to the abandoned bridge, midnight. No cops, no friends. Ash only. The koala will be returned, unharmed." Judy frowned as she finished reading aloud. "And you're sure this is Lance's paw writing?"
"Ash confirmed it." Mia said, pacing. "She recognized it from when he used to write songs."
"So what do you do?" Nick asked.
"You're the police." Mia pointed out.
"And you're a Detective. This is way out of our area, Ames." Judy explained.
Amelia face palmed. "No police. No friends."
Judy frowned. "We could abide to his wishes... set a trap...?"
"I won't allow Ash to be put in that kind of danger. She's already been abused by that brute, I won't let it happen again." Amelia frowned.
"She agreed to it though."
The three officers turned to see Eddie standing in the doorway. "Ash agreed. Let her go up there, let her go with Lance. We'll get Buster back. She lived with Lance. She can handle him."
"This doesn't concern you, Noodleman." Mia glared, appalled he would suggest such a thing.
"That's my best friend in trouble!"
Here we go, Judy said, rolling her eyes.
"Go back downstairs, Noodleman." Mia said, attempting to stay calm.
"NO!! I'M THE ONLY ONE DOING ANYTHING! Ash agreed! Let her do this!"
"It's too bloody dangerous, Noodleman. Please understand this. We'll working out a way for everyone to walk away safely." Mia assured.
Eddie frowned as he turned a way, holding back tears.
"Eddie-"
Suddenly, Eddie whirled around and delivered a punch to Trixie's nose. The fox fell to the floor. She wiped her nose and saw the blood on her sleeve.
Numb with shock, Amelia yelped as the sheep grabbed her and slammed her against the wall. Her eyes were piercing green, burning with rage and fury.
But she couldn't bring herself to hard this hurting sheep. She been in this line of work to know this attack wasn't personal, but Eddie was looking for someone to blame and until they found the culprits, she was his victim.
Eddie stared back into her eyes before Mia looked up and saw the photo frame of the gang hanging just above them. Buster's familiar smile and the groups happy faces. The attack, for a second was forgotten.
It was a second too long.
Eddie delivered a punch to her gut and smacked the side of her face. He was about to grab her again when Marcus suddenly appeared and thrusted him on to the couch.
"That. IS. ENOUGH!!" Judy screamed,
Eddie tried to move, but he powerless against the gorilla.
"Eddie Noodleman, you could be put in jail with assault on an officer of the law. This little temper tantrum is ending right now. Do you understand." It was more a statement then a question and Eddie frowned as Judy continued. "You are acting like a child. Amelia, are you alright?"
"I'm fine." Amelia finally spoke. Grunting, she picked herself up. "Let him go. It's not his fault."
Eddie frowned, but Nick was furious. "Are you crazy? He attacked you!"
"Eddie." Mia said. "I know this is hard, believe me, but if you interfere again. I WILL have you put under house arrest until this matter is solved."
Eddie's eyes widened a bit. "But Buster-"
"Is no longer... your problem." Amelia took a deep breath. "I've put up with you in this case until now. You're not stable enough. You could end up getting someone hurt or even killed. This is includes Buster."
"You can't just-"
"This is for your safety as well as ours." Mia said.
"It's best to do as she says, Eddie." Judy put in. "I know this is difficult. But we can't have you involved with this case any longer. You can go home and await news.... or we'll confine you there. Marcus, please escort him downstairs."
"It's not forever, fluff." Nick added, his green eyes softening. "Just until we got Moon back."
Eddie frowned as he looked from Nick to Judy, to Amelia. He then silently stood and followed Marcus to the door. Mia frowned as she leaned on the desk, her strength nearly gone. "I will find him, Eddie. Mark my words."
The sheep said nothing, he didn't even look back as he walked out. He was nearly down the the stairs when he realized something. He casted a glance over his shoulder in the office just as the door was closing. Once it clicked, he allowed himself a small smile.
__________________________________________
Rosita frowned as she looked down at her shakey hands. The scene that had played out upstairs had gone unnoticed by the rest of the cast.
Gunter frowned as he walked up and gave her a cup of cocoa which she excepted, gratefully.
Gunter then stood. "I can't gonna sit around, not when we have a note upstairs. "
"Mia said wait here-"
"What did it say again?" Johnny asked.
Rosita frowned as she took her phone. She had managed to snap a picture before Mia and the officers took it upstairs.
" 'dear Moon Theater. Did you think you could get rid of me that easy?'" Rosita shuddered a bit as she continued. "'I have Buster Moon. Have Ash drive to the abandoned bridge, midnight. No cops, no friends. Ash only. The koala will be returned, unharmed. If you don't, Buster takes a late night swim." Rosita suddenly growled. "More then anything I wish I could get my paws around that punk's neck."
"Your paws are to small." Gunter pointed out.
"I'll get Johnny to do it then."
Usually the gentle soul, Johnny gave no sign that he was against this.
Marcus suddenly approached, looking ragged and furious.
"Dad? What's wrong?" Johnny asked.
"Eddie attacked Amelia." Marcus replied.
"What? When?" Clay demanded.
"Just now. Lost his temper."
"Is she okay?" Meena asked.
"She's handling better then I would have. They're upstairs now discussing how to go about this."
"Let's, let's do something." Meena said suddenly said.
"Meena, there's nothin' we can do," Johnny said.
"We can drive there and demand Buster back. We could threaten him or, or-"
"Meena, honey-" Rosita tried.
"We could trade!"
"Only thing he wants is Ash." Johnny growled.
"JÃ and he'll have to get through me to get to her." Gunter growled.
"Gunter is right, Ash has got animals behind her." Clay said. Then he realized something. "Where IS Ash?"
__________________________________________
Mia frowned as she rubbed her neck. "It's a risk. But, if Ash agreeable, we'll go with it."
Judy nodded. "Ash drives there alone, as instructed. Nick and I follow along with our civilian car, not lights. Set up the spike strips. So when Lance pushes out Buster and speeds away, his tires will shred. Get Ash, arrest Lance and who ever he has as an accomplice."
"Then boom, everyone's home safe." Nick smiled.
"I hope so." Amelia says.
"Mia!"
The officers turned as the door was thrown open and the theater group barged in.
"Ash is gone!"
"What do you mean, gone?" Amelia asked, jumping up.
"We've looked everywhere," Rosita explained. "I called her cell, we found it in her dressing room. She's gone! Marcus and Clay are searching the area!"
Nick frowned as he looked to Judy. "You don't think Eddie-"
"Kidnapped Ash and went to go get his friend back?"
"....that's oddly specific."
"Eddie!?" Rosita cried.
"Mia and he got into a small scuffle. We ordered him to leave." Judy explained. "And now... we may have reason to believe he kidnapped Ash to exchange her for Buster."
Rosita and the group stared, horrified. They didn't think Eddie was crazy enough to do this.
"He's out of his mind!" Johnny cried.
"At the moment, it's safe to say yes." Mia said. "He could be walking into a trap. There's no telling what could happen. He might get Buster, Ash and himself killed."
"So, Amelia, what do you suppose we do?" Nick asked.
"You tell me."
"Don't you have any idea?" Johnny asked.
"We did, but this complicates things."
"You're being unbelievably calm in this situation." Johnny pointed out.
"I'm trying to think, son." Mia replied. She cleared the fuzziness and leaned back in the chair.
After a few seconds of agonizing silence, she leaned forward. "I'm going after them."
"Are you crazy?" Nick asked. "What if there's a gun fight?"
Mia put her paw to her side and was met with the familiar cold medal of her revolver. "That's a risk I am willing to take." She said, softly.
"Let us help, Mia, we could be useful!" Rosita tried.
"I'm not bringing a group of civilians to a hostile situation. Wilde, Hopps, I still want you to lay out those spike strips of yours. But carefully. I don't know how Lance will react if he sees Eddie went with Ash. This could be a blood bath..."
"Do you really think any of the animals mentioned are really the type to create a... blood bath..?" Meena asked.
"Lance? Difficult to tell. The wolves, however, I would bet good money." The fox's eyes shifted to the window. Night was falling fast. Midnight would be there before they knew it. With a growl deep in her throat, Mia buttoned her coat and took out her revolver, checking its bullets. "It takes an hour to get there, we'll go in separate vehicles." She said, turning to Nick and Judy. "Johhny, mind if I borrow your car?" She asked.
Johnny hesitantly threw her his keys and she snatched them. "Stay close behind me, you two. But out of sight and OFF THE BRIDGE. I looked it up, too many vehicles and the very ground could shift. The bridge could very well collapse. I'll get as close to Eddie and them as I can. Perhaps, if there is trouble, I can try to negotiate.... if not," The fox cocked her weapon. "And you," she continued, turning to the group. "Stay here. Is that understood?"
The group nodded, solemnly.
"We'll be back with everyone safe. You have my word."
With that, the three officers raced out the door.
Johnny glanced at the group before him. "So.... don't tell me we're just gonna sit here."
"For the moment, jà ." Gunter said.
"What!?"
"Or until I find my keys." Rosita smirked pulling her keys from her purse. She clicked the button and her van chirped from the ground below.
Johnny smiled. "Let's go kick some tail!"
_________________________________________
Buster groaned as he opened his eyes. Twice it has now happened that he had been knocked unconscious. He shook his head and felt that his hands were now tied behind him and he was in the back seat of an unmoving car. Porsha was nowhere to be seen, but a soft chuckle told Buster he wasn't alone.
Lance was there.
"Where is Porsha!?" He growled.
Lance, seated in the front seat, ignored him as he started his own conversation. "I hated myself, for what I did to Ash. That wasn't me. I'm a great guy!"
Worry still itched for Porsha, but Buster decided to play along. "Did Becky say that?"
"Becky? She left me. Couple days after your stupid show, actually. Caught me trying to call Ash."
"You tried to call her?"
"She blocked me. I met her a couple of times, after rehearsals. She didn't want anything to do with me. And then, what can I say? I wanted her back. She still loves me, deep down."
"Maybe she did." Buster said, coldly. "But that was before you started stalking her."
"That's over and done, Moon. I am different now, I've changed!"
"For the worst."
"And don't worry about Ash. So long as she does what I ask, she'll be all right."
"Why are you doing this. You seemed happy with Becky. I mean, obviously. You left Ash for her."
"Becky's not a rockstar. Ash's name could become a sensation! But she remains in that theater or crappy clubs, her potential being wasted away in petty plays."
"She seems happy."
"That's because she doesn't know what she can become!"
"You're just wanting the fame for yourself. This has nothing to do with Ash. You're just using her to become famous yourself." Buster growled. "You never paid any attention to her. Not until she appeared on that stage!"
Lance's grip tightened on the steering wheel. "I suppose you're wondering what happened to the wolf."
Buster frowned. Lance was trying to change the subject, which, he admitted, was fine with him. "Where is she!?"
"She's in the car behind us. With Crimson."
"But she knows just as much as I. She'll rat you out."
"Possibly."
"What, that doesn't concern you?"
"We're taking a risk putting you out. Besides, her name is a lot bigger then some little theater director's. And she's pretty naive. Probably won't take much to keep her mouth shut."
This guy's an idiot, Buster thought.
Suddenly a knock came and Lance opened the door to see Crimson. "What?"
"Gotta have a word with you." The wolf growled as he pulled the porcupine out, leaving Buster alone.
The koala looked around before his phone picked up a faint buzz. For the first time in hours, he felt his spirits soar as a light appeared from a familiar object.
Lance had left his phone.
The theater owner, though his hands were tied, quietly crept over and opened it to the phone call. With his tongue, he punched in Rosita's number.
__________________________________________
"Will someone answer that?" Rosita asked as she drove.
"It's an unknown number," Gunter said.
"Answer it anyway."
"Hello, like, this is Rosita's phone."
"Gunter!"
The familiar voice nearly drove them all off the road. Rosita gasped as she gained control. Gunter took the AUX cord and plugged it into the car, allowing Buster's voice to be heard through speaker.
"Buster Brandon Moon! Thank goodness! Where are you!? Are you okay?! Are-"
"Rosita! I don't have long to talk! Listen, I need you to call Zootopia police, tell them that there will be a robbery at the bank-"
"Who cares, Moon!?" Mike argued.
"I do! There's a rare diamond there! This is will be a chance to catch Saul Spikes once and for all."
"Fine, we will. After we save you!"
"No! You'd all be in danger! Where's Ash!?"
The group exchanged nervous glances.
__________________________________________
"Noodleman kidnapped her and is bringing her to the old bridge." Clay's voice rang.
It took all Buster had not to scream. "E-Eddie...?" Why would his beat friend kidnap his daughter?!
"He's desperate." Johnny said.
The showman took a deep breath. "They're...he's..."
"Calm down, Buster," Gunter said.
"Calm down?!" Buster hissed. "My best friend kidnapped my kid and is about to hand her over to Lance! Calm down my-"
Buster stopped as he picked up the sounds of foot steps approaching. He held his breath until they passed.
"Eddie's upset, worried and desperate." Rosita explained. "Though I am completely disappointed in him, I can see where he's coming from..."
"Still, it wasn't right!" Gunter said.
"Officers Hopps and Wilde are on their way, and Am-"
"You need to turn back." Buster interrupted.
"What!?!"
"You're outta your mind, Moon!"
"Not bloody likely!"
Buster frowned. "This is getting too dangerous, guys. You need to turn around. Please. I will not see one of you hurt."
"Who stays that'll happen!?"
"Please, guys. Go back." Buster swallowed.
With that, he hung up.
_________________________________________
"Buster? Buster Moon!" Rosita cried, tears forming as the phone clicked.
"Can we call him back?" Meena asked.
"Wouldn't be wise." Gunter warned.
"So what!? We just turn back!?" Johnny asked.
Rosita frowned as she slowed her vehicle down. As it was was nearing midnight, no cars seemed to be on the road. Sighing, she came to a full stop on the shoulder.
"We can't just leave him!" Meena cried.
"Mia is there. She'll figure out what to do. We need, we need to follow Buster's orders..."
Johnny frowned. "But-"
"No buts. Now hand me my phone. We need to call Zootopia police."
_________________________________________
Mia sat in Johnny's truck, hidden in the darkness over looking the bridge. She was glad for the teen's old truck, at first glance, it looked as though it had been here for some time, forgotten.
The bridge was hidden in the darkness, over looking a ravine a good 100 feet down where rough rapids shot through, daily.
The quietness and stillness of everything made the seasoned fox nervous.
It wasn't long before Amelia received a text, telling her Judy and Nick were preparing the spike strips. The darkness concealing them.
Thunder rumbled above, the clouds making the night sky darker then usual.
Eleven forty five.
Mia glanced away from her watch and waited.
Five minutes later another vehicle pulled up, a black car.
Hope you guys enjoyed this chapter. The calm before the storm, so to speak. Also, no art cause someone said I lacked practice, ha... but please let me you if you'd like me to do an art page for this chapter or feel free to do some yourself. I love seeing it. Have a good one. Until next the next chapter.