These two have fascinated me since the film came out. Great dynamic, wonderful word play, felt like a very organic method of building a relationship. Even the casual "You know you love me..." exchange near the end of the movie seemed to sum up a great deal of what kind of interaction they have with each other. I found it refreshing because of how familiar it all was; I knew at least one couple like this in school and I was jealous of what they had built together. But your piece adds a very ambiance-driven, emotional element that the movie only really touched upon in brief glimpses. Listening to Nick reveal some of his deepest, darkest childhood trauma, watching Judy break down when she realizes that she may lose Nick's friendship forever because of what was said...I wish there had been more of that in the film. But Disney has to Disney, I know this. And that's OK, because the world of artists who loved the characters pick up where Disney leaves us off. In fanfics, we continue the story, and in fanart, we continue the very real connection we have with these characters when we observe how they interact. Having never read the fic this piece was inspired by, I can already say the tonal shift is dramatic. Deep azure and midnight blue, the garish graffiti background, the haunting but soft light of the city in the near distance, these create a very noir-ish mood and offer a setting that one can interact with, as well as see. The striking dark tone and gritty realism of NYPD: Blue comes to mind, not to mention atmospheric references to shows like Durarara and even Code Geass. The fade effect makes the rain outside the window pop into view, before shutting us out from an intimate moment between our leads. The physical dynamic between the two officers is striking but very complimentary: Judy seems to be channeling her inner Motoko Kusanagi, offering distinctly feminine lines and curves, but losing no sense of overall strength or prowess. Her ears and eyes are unsure but trusting, waiting to see how Nick will react to some clandestine information, offering physical comfort and proximity, very trusting, very vulnerable, despite her strength. Nick, ever guarded and careful with how he displays his natural predatory characteristics (enhanced musculature, protruding claws, bristling tail and swiveled ears) is intent on being gentle, receptive, willing to listen and understand. Going from a fox with a somewhat duplicitous nature to a fox who wants to protect, serve, learn, this has been a learning experience for him, thanks in no small part to Judy, who brought him something he wasn't sure he would find, especially from a bunny: acceptance. He is a man who wants to do the right thing, especially if it keeps Judy, HIS Judy, safe. Not sure if this fanfic is based on a story of romance, but even if it isn't, there is love here, in different facets and shades of gray. The best kind of love emerges in this way; it is odd, unusual, unpredictable and as unlikely to happen as a bunny teaming up with a fox. Perhaps this is what draws others and myself to this piece: for all the uncertainty and foreboding that the image offers, it also offers real connection, passion and a clear feeling of devotion between two people who face something treacherous...but face it together.



Quite lovely and moving, Ms. Winter. I shall have to pay closer attention to your work. Excellent piece.



-J