They're laughing at me. I can feel it. I don't mind, I'm used to laughter. As long as they do their jobs. All the same, I play the likeable card. Never hurts.
"Hello. I'm Jack Savage. And I'd like to not die tonight."
The female rabbit smiles. She's attractive, big purple eyes and grey fur. Judy Hopps. ZPD's finest, if you believe the rumors. First rabbit officer. I'd taken her for more of a figurehead, an inspiring hero to tell stories to kits about. I was wrong. She carries a calm capability around her, and the way she touches her utility belt is a well-worn habit.
"We'll see what we can do, Mr. Savage," she grins wider.
I hold up a paw in a 'stop' gesture. "Please. Call me Jack. I'm assuming you're Officer Hopps?"
She nods, then jerks a thumb at her partner. "That's Jackson. He's just decoration. I'll be doing all the real work." Her friend smirks and rolls his eyes. He's as tall as ten of me, and looks strong enough to punch through a brick wall. Decoration, my tail.
"I'm sure he is. Now, if you'll excuse me, officers, I think the show's starting." I adjust my tie, walking into the plaza. Appearances are very important, in my game. In any game, really. My protectors trail behind, scanning the crowd efficiently. They're competent, at least.
I walk up to the stage, smiling and shaking hands with the big cheeses of my company. All an act. They'd all love to claim my place. But they're good at their jobs. Finally, I reach the podium and begin my speech.
You'd think that after enough times, it would be easy. That you wouldn't get stage fright, your tongue wouldn't trip, you'd say all the right things. That's not how it works. Nearly every public appearance is as bad as the first one. I'm just as nervous, I've just learned how to play the game a little better. I'm still that buck from the farming sector, just dressed up in a suit and with a better vocabulary.
When the whole Thank-you-for-having-me speech is over, I graciously step down and open the buffet. These camel caterers come from my favorite restaurant in Sahara Square.
I'm just finishing my first plate when the gunshots ring out.
