Chapter 6: Time Heals All Wounds
Shortly after fleeing the blazing fire in the mansion and rescuing Jack, Skye discreetly carried him to the nearby forest, situated not far from the estate. Jack's injuries are severe; a fragment of his ear has been torn away by a bullet fired by Arwyn, and his chest is heavily bloodied from a second gunshot wound. After making it out safely from the burning mansion, Skye carefully lays Jack down on the ground. They find themselves enveloped by a stunning forest, rich with vibrant plant life. Skye then cradles him in her arms to assess his condition.
Skye: Jack! Do you hear me?! Oh no, this is worse than I imagined!
Jack: Skye, where...are we?
Jack is in a dire state, having lost a significant amount of blood from two gunshot wounds. With no one nearby to help him, he finds himself in an utterly desperate situation.
Skye: I saved you from falling into the fiery pit. Your mansion is in ashes now. I told you to stop this madness. You didn't listen! Your stubbornness spiraled out of control, and now look what happened! And the worst part? I don't know what to do with your current state! The situation deteriorated rapidly!
Jack: My brotherhood is gone. My life feels... over.
Skye: There's no need to say it that way, dummy!. I'm still here for you! I thought I was your best friend. Am I not? Look, we can begin fresh in a new place, far from here. We really need to find a way to get you the help you need right away! I can't bear the thought of losing you! Please hang in there!
Jack: Just let me be, Skye. There's really nothing you can do to save this poor rabbit that's fading away…
Skye: No!!! There are plenty of paramedics tending to the injured near the mansion! I didn't realize how serious your injuries were until now.
Jack: Please, just go... They'd lock me up forever. This is the end of my journey. The final chapter of my life of crime.
Jack feels profoundly weak, struggling to speak or engage in any activity. Nevertheless, he has a crucial message for Skye, and as he conveys his thoughts, he gently holds her hand.
Jack: Skye, I have one final piece of advice for you: avoid becoming overly fixated on loving someone. It could lead to your downfall. Shattered heart, emotional pain, depression. This is what happens when you select the wrong individual to love. You should have been my choice, yet I overlooked your true value. I sincerely apologize for making you feel unwanted. I have always held affection for you. You were the greatest friend I ever had. I should have entrusted you... with my heart instead.
The most notorious criminal in Zootopia takes his final breath in Skye's embrace, departing this world in the presence of the one he valued above all else. An intense wave of emotions washes over Skye, causing her to break down in tears.
Skye: Don't leave me, please. I need you!
She gently caresses his face, her tears falling softly onto his fur.
Skye: I am truly alone in this broken world. It hurts. It hurts a lot. I am sorry I could not do anything to prevent this from happening to you, Jack.
She lifts him off the ground and makes her way back to his mansion. There's no reason to run anymore.
At the mansion, the fire department continues its relentless efforts to control the blaze, while paramedics attend to the injured officers. The shootout has resulted in significant casualties on both sides, yet justice emerges as the sole victor. Arwyn's state is equally dire. He is hurried into the ambulance, accompanied by Nick and Judy. As the paramedics load Arwyn into the vehicle, Nick steals a final look at his friend before the doors close and the ambulance departs. He stands with a heavy heart as he observes the ambulance transporting Arwyn, gradually fading from view. Concern for his partner's well-being burdens his thoughts, which are clouded with negativity and guilt.
A few minutes later...
They are both sitting alone in an ambulance, comforting each other. Judy gently takes his hand while engaging him in conversation.
Judy: Listen, he will survive. He is a tough block.
Nick: This is just so bittersweet. I might be saying goodbye to a great friend, but on the bright side, I've saved you, the most precious thing in my life.
Judy: You have a good heart, you know? I am proud of you.
Nick: What I am about to say may change your perspective. Judy, my dear, I must confess that I have not been entirely truthful with you.
Judy: Yeah, about that. Nick... this might not be the ideal moment to reveal your innermost secrets.
Nick: No, I have to. It's now or never. I am already emotionally moved. I have to let it all out.
Nick starts speaking with a melancholic voice.
Nick: Everything that rabbit said is spot on. Back in those days, I was more than just a con artist. I felt I had no other option. Finding a legitimate job was nearly impossible, and my mother and I had debts to settle. I was young, naive, and made some poor choices. After a tough childhood filled with bullying and struggles, I ended up having a lot of contacts. I had plenty of friends, most of them being fake, and I got involved with a local gang. Their leader promised me a bright future, and I quickly rose through the ranks to become their main supplier of drugs and weapons, catering to the needs of criminals. While I wasn't widely recognized, I played a part in the tragic fate of many innocent lives, and that's something I deeply regret.
Nick's eyes start tearing up with guilt and pain as Judy listens closely to his horrid past.
Nick: I earned a lot of money and helped my mom settle her debts, but I've never revealed to her the source of that money. She only knows that I worked at a local store selling pawpsicles, and that's it. I feel a deep sense of shame about being her son and your partner, especially after my proposal to you.
Judy: Nick, being with you makes me truly feel the deep love that binds us together. After all these years of fighting crime side by side and improving each other's lives, I can't bring myself to hold a grudge against you for your mistakes and wrongdoings. Honestly, they pale in comparison to the terrible things Jack has done. One key aspect that sets you apart from Jack is your capacity to move on from your past and embrace a new version of yourself that embodies strong moral values. This is why my love for you is unwavering and always will be. Things will improve as time goes on. Let's take the time we need to heal from these recent, abhorrent events. You know I want you and I need you. I can't live without you anymore. We are destined to be together, to do good.
This is when they share a beautiful soft kiss, and at this moment, everything feels alright again for Nick, knowing Judy still deeply loves him and appreciates him for who he is.
Chief Bogo arrives to check up on the two.
Chief Bogo: Wilde, Hopps. I can't even recall the last moment I felt this delighted and overly joyous. Seeing you two make it out of that burning hell safe and sound truly put me at ease.
Judy: This was one of the toughest days of my life, Chief, but thanks to his valiant, sly fox, I am still here, alive.
Nick: While I do feel flattered, Arwyn is the true hero and savior of the day. If it weren't for him, we wouldn't be here right now among the living.
Chief Bogo: Even though we emerged victorious, this intense battle took a heavy toll, resulting in the loss of many brave souls. We just lost so many good men. It's heartrending. On top of that, this Savage rabbit is still on the loose. The struggle for justice continues, and we have a long way to go, especially with him still alive. I will crush that contemptible rabbit and relish every moment as I squeeze the life out of him once we finally get our hands on him!
Nick: Chief, once me and Carrots recover from this totally obnoxious day, we will hunt him down together! I promise!
Chief Bogo: Good, just remember we will NEVER win against injustice without making mincemeat out of that rabbit. He's accountable for the extinguished lives of our friends and colleagues!
As Bogo carries on with his heartfelt conversation, an unexpected event occurs that takes him by surprise. Skye appears, carrying Jack Savage in her arms, covered in blood.
Skye: Target eliminated.
Chief Bogo: Agent Winter? Is that…him? Impossible! This can't be real. Is this your doing?
Instead of lying and giving herself credit for eliminating Jack, she tells the complete truth.
Skye: You have that rookie to thank for this. This is his doing, sir. He was the one delivering these lethal blows to him.
In a state of shock, Nick and Judy find themselves silent, trying to wrap their heads around the situation.
Chief Bogo: How remarkable! With his death, we can finally take a moment to celebrate and anticipate a swift decline in crime! This has certainly brightened my day, though it cannot undo the loss of our dear friends. Well done, Agent Winter. You will be greatly awarded for being involved in this rabbit hunt. Now throw that piece of filth on the ground and let our men handle this from now on.
Skye carefully lays him down on the ground, making a strong effort to suppress her tears in the process.
Chief Bogo: C'mon Agent Winter, why do you exhibit such tenderness in your movements with his lifeless body?
Skye: He was once a good friend of mine from back in the day. However, he has turned out to be a huge disappointment for me, as you can obviously tell.
Chief Bogo: He was a menace to everyone! That's one less fake friend for you and a huge win for the rest of us. We're definitely throwing a feast to celebrate his downfall, and YOU, young lady, are invited!
Skye: I think I'll pass. Thanks for the invite, though.
Chief Bogo: Whatever you say, Agent Winter, but just keep in mind you were there when justice needed you the most. Alright, boys, let's get that garbage out of here!
Two officers lift Jack's lifeless body and carry it away. Skye remains standing in one place with suppressed emotions. Bogo turns back to Judy and Nick.
Chief Bogo: I believe you two can now finally take a break and enjoy your vacation.
Judy: You bet!
Nick: I could use a bit of rejuvenation. My body needs it.
Chief Bogo: Good. You will be coming back to a completely clean and refurbished office once your vacation wraps up, as Officer Silverthorne is still working laboriously to make our station look new.
Nick: You can't be serious. This just accounts for his absence. You really did impose the most severe punishment upon him. How mean.
Judy: Holy smokes, Chief!
Chief Bogo: That's right! I almost lost my hearing thanks to one of his stupid balloons. You two take care of yourselves, okay? There's a lot on my plate to get done, as usual. See you!
Bogo walks away as Skye glances back at Nick and Judy one final time before she leaves.
Nick: Skye, wait!
Nick's shouting doesn't stop her as she continues walking away. Nick, anxious about chasing after her with Judy nearby, casts a concerned glance at her.
Judy: What? Do you want my permission? I am not in control of your life. Do what you must. Just go talk to her. I'll give you two some space as long as you don't get way too attached to her, that is.
Nick: Don't worry, my sweet little carrot juice. Our bond is solely rooted in friendship. Or was... we are now kind of strangers now. I really don't know, but I am going to check up on her if you don't mind.
Judy: Like I said, go talk to her. I'll wait for you here. I love you.
Nick: I love you too.
Judy remains sitting and relaxing in the ambulance after Nick runs after Skye to check up on her.
Nick: Hey, Skye! Wait! Please!
Skye stops and slowly turns to face Nick.
Nick: Skye! Hey! What a night, right?
Skye: Please, whatever you are about to say, just make it quick and succinct. I need to be alone.
Nick: First and foremost, I am incredibly relieved and happy to see you alive. Is everything okay? Are you hurt?
Skye: Guess...
Facing away from Nick, Skye stands there, her heart filled with conflicting emotions as the rain finally starts to fall. Nick walks up to her and stands next to her…
Nick: Oh, look! Rain. About damn time, right?
Skye: Nick, I don't have time for this. Cut to the chase. please.
Nick: You loved him, didn't you?
Skye: What? Me falling in love with a criminal? That's not a recipe for a good, meaningful life. Look, you got your girl back, but me? All I got was a meaningless pat on the shoulder. Congrats on successfully completing your mission.
Nick: Hey, this isn't a big win for me either. I mean, Judy's safety is all that matters, but Arwyn... he has been shot, and he is currently in a life-threatening condition. I don't think he is going to make it.
Skye: I will pray for his life. He is a good fox. A humble, heroic, confident unit. He will make it, trust me.
Nick: Just when I thought this day couldn't possibly take a turn for the worse, he puts himself in harm's way to shield me from Jack's bullets.
Skye: He took Jack's life but saved yours.
Nick: Are you suggesting that you are dissatisfied with the result?
Skye: No, but I have mixed feelings about everything right now, especially when I look at you.
Nick: Skye, I don't know if you will ever forgive me for hurting you, but I am just so sorry about everything.
Skye: When I believed I had finally found the right person to open my heart to, you disappeared. You left me at my most vulnerable moment, shattering my heart in the process. I am trying my best to forgive you. I really do. But a heart reforged in stone struggles to show forgiveness.
Nick: I had to redeem myself. I joined the police force, hoping it would help me forget the past, but it still haunts me. One of my biggest regrets is what I did to you. After I met Judy, I knew that she was the only way for me to become a better fox, given how remarkably optimistic, irreproachable, and virtuous she was and still is.
Skye: You are right. You are better off without me. I know you ditched me for her, Nick. But that's okay. Nothing matters anymore. Cutting off contact with me was the best thing you could have possibly done. It's all okay, no worries.
Nick: No, wait! It's just a misinterpretation! The thing is, my life got so busy, and I never wanted to look back anymore. I take full responsibility for what happened between us. I didn't realize you had feelings for me. It all occurred at a really inconvenient time. Once Judy convinced me to join the police force, I started working on a new path for myself, trying to leave the past behind. Our unexpected encounter at the mall...
Skye: Is where I realized you deem me worthless and why you ghosted me...
Skye looks away from Nick as tears begin to stream down her cheeks.
Skye: You leave me without saying anything, and then several months later I catch sight of you in the mall with her. Ouch, right? I didn't know how to feel. Angry? Sad? Disappointed? It broke me entirely. I had lost my best friend and I was alone until I reunited with Jack at the ZSA.
Nick: Skye, had I known about your feelings for me before I met Judy, I would have tried my hardest to make things happen between us and ensure you felt appreciated and loved. You were one of my closest friends at that time, and I really liked you then, and I still value our friendship today.
Skye: Friendship, you say? Do you really think we are still friends? I really wanted us to become more than just friends back then, you know? After you disappeared, I still felt hopeful that one day you'd return, but when I saw you and Judy holding hands at the mall, it felt like something deep inside me just faded away. The void you created has changed me significantly, but I'm okay. Everything is perfectly fine. You found your true love while I lost mine. You and me, it wasn't anything special or serious. We have to keep that in mind. You are better off without me.
Nick then shifts closer to her.
Nick: I am very sorry for making you feel this way. It's all my fault. I should have stayed in touch with you the whole time. I feel like I didn't pay you enough attention. I left you for my new career, for my redemption. I am so sorry for everything. You have no obligation to forgive me for any of this. I deserve only your contempt. But I just want you to know that without you, we wouldn't be here right now, and for that, you have my utmost respect and gratitude. I strongly hope we can still remain friends. You have every right to hate me. I will understand. But just know I would never wish this upon you. Never. You deserve better.
Nick's words warm up her heart, and a faint smile appears on her face. Skye faces him and stares directly into his eyes.
Skye: You've changed too. But in a good way. Look, I am going to need some time to heal emotionally. One last thing: what I said about our relationship being a forgettable experience; I didn't mean it. I actually enjoyed being with you as your special friend. It was fun while it lasted.
Nick: Thanks, Skye. It was indeed fun while it lasted. So, what's next for Agent Winter?
Skye: New goals, higher ambitions. With Jack currently entering the fiery gates of hell down below, I have no reason to be around here anymore, but it doesn't end here for me. I'm still hurt, whether it's his death or our past. I believe time heals all wounds. If there's still something bothering you, it will get better and better over time. We should both give ourselves time to heal. It's the only way if you want to chase a life according to your needs. I wish you a good life with your bunny.
Nick: Skye, before you go, I want to state something firmly. If you ever get into trouble or you'll need a helping paw, I'll be here for you. Always.
Skye: Understandable. But there's still something really important I must do.
Nick: What is it?
Skye gets up really close to him, making Nick almost blush before she wraps her arms around him.
Skye: I forgive you.
In the meantime, Judy hops out of the ambulance only to witness Nick and Skye sharing a warm, comforting hug. Skye releases Nick, staring into his eyes one last time before she walks away.
Judy: Look who just won her affection already. It's hard to resist a fox with a winning smile.
Nick: Carrots! I can explain!
Judy: You don't have to. Stop acting like you are not allowed to have friends. I trust and love you, you know?
Nick: I don't just know it. I feel it!
Nick extends his arms wide, and Judy leaps into his embrace for a heartfelt hug. They share a kiss, but their moment is interrupted when a police car pulls up beside them. Officer Silverthorne emerges from the vehicle, having just finished tidying up at the station.
Jacob: Phew, that took a while. I cleaned every nook and cranny of the station just like the chief requested. Now, where is that Savage rabbit?
Nick and Judy share a hearty laugh at Jacob's tardiness and unfortunate situation. Jacob scans the area for a brief moment, quickly realizing that the shootout has concluded and the mansion lies in shambles.
Jacob: Oh, crap. What did I miss?!
Nick has reclaimed his stolen treasure, and Judy is once again secure in his embrace. While he experiences a sense of relief and joy, his thoughts are heavily burdened by concerns for Arwyn's life.
Two days later, at the break of dawn, Arwyn finds himself surrounded by his family, all overflowing with joy after he narrowly escaped a life-threatening gunshot wound. Following a challenging surgery, he is given a second chance to keep making the world a better place and pursue his aspirations. As everything is returning to normal, the door swings open, and Nick enters the room, his eyes welling with tears at the sight of his friend alive, soon followed by Judy. The group shares a heartfelt reunion, filled with warmth and gratitude.
Weeks later, Judy and Nick's wedding takes place, with Arwyn among the attendees, joined by numerous ZPD officers, Chief Bogo, and a multitude of bunnies. Their ceremony unfolds smoothly and peacefully, aligning perfectly with their hopes and dreams.
With Jack out of the picture and no powerful figure left to support criminal activities, Zootopia experiences a significant drop in crime rates. The streets are now safer than ever. To maintain this newfound safety, the ZPD is actively recruiting hundreds of additional officers to keep crime levels low. It is once again the city where everyone can follow their dreams and be anything without the fear of losing their life.
The End.
Thank you for reading! If you found my story enjoyable, I would love to hear your thoughts. Check out my other Zootopia fanfictions that explore the adventures of Blake Thunder.
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