FIFTEEN YEARS LATER....
It is afternoon and a bell ring can be heard all around the Foxenville Hills High School. The entrance door opens and hordes of students start walking out joyously ready to go home to their families. Two foxes walk out shortly after. One of them has red dark fur and reddish eyes (Cosmo) while the other one is smaller, with light yellow fur, emerald green eyes and much longer and pointier ears, a fennec fox. (Rudolph)
Cosmo: It's about time we got out of this building. It disgusts me.
Rudolph: Yeah, tell me about it. The only thing that kept me awake all day was Alex.
Cosmo: The way he was scoffing at Mrs. Weaselton constantly after the class was ridiculous.
Rudolph: C'mon you know he was getting tired of her teaching especially math, I mean who sits on their butt listening to a math teacher with great interest? Nobody.
They both walk down the stairs and onto the pavement and head home on foot while talking to each other....
Cosmo: That would be.....you!
Rudolph: Nah, my main interest was Madison all day.
Cosmo: You really got a crush on her, do you?
Rudolph: I....I just like her okay? She's....gorgeous. Don't tell me there's no girl that you like in our school...
Cosmo: Nope. I still haven't found my type. But you, consider yourself lucky. I think you should ask her out.
Rudolph: Nah, that's not going to happen.
Cosmo: Why not? Don't be afraid to ask a girl you like out. We need to work on your confidence bro.
Rudolph: I know I am that silent type of a person, withdrawn and stupid but I really don't think she is going to like me or even bother going out with me.
Cosmo: You'll never find out if you don't try. If it was me crushing on her, she would already be my girlfriend...
Rudolph: How can you be so sure about that?
Cosmo: Well, I am...charismatic?
Rudolph: You basically just implied that I lack charisma, thanks. That's not helpful.
Cosmo: Absolutely not. We are brothers which means we have the same qualities.
Rudolph: That doesn't explain why I am not as confident, determined and manly like you.
Cosmo: I don't think I got any of those, it's probably because I somehow inherited our dad's personality for the most part. You're more like mom to be honest and that's why you are so gentle and sensitive.
Rudolph: But mom can manage by herself in the most difficult situations, I cannot. Speaking of which, they never really share their story about how they met or anything from their past. Are they trying to hide something from us?
Cosmo: I am not sure. But that's a good point bro. We should gather tonight in the living room to talk about this with them. What do you think of this?
Rudolph: I dunno. I am afraid we will get one of those vague responses as usual.
Cosmo: But it's still worth a shot right? We will have to drag the truth out of them, you know....loosen their tongues no matter what. We are old enough to know whatever their past is. Dad must have done something really wrong before that he is trying to hide from us. It's obvious. He has been forced to wear that weird collar six days a week for how many years? Fifteen?
Rudolph: I guess you are right. And if I am not mistaken, tomorrow is a big day for him as he gets to remove it from his neck for good.
They reach a pedestrian crossing. Cosmo stops to look around if there are any cars coming their way whilst Rudolph continues walking absently and steps on the crossing when a car appears from one direction at nearly full speed.
Cosmo: RUD!
Cosmo quickly reacts and grabs his brother by his backpack and pulls him backwards and thus saves his life as the car misses him by inches.
Cosmo: Bro! Are you crazy? You can't just walk out on the road like that carelessly without looking around first! That asshole nearly ran over you!
Rudolph: I am....sorry. I was just having my moment....thanks for saving me. Please don't tell anything to mom and dad....
Cosmo: I won't but you need to pay more attention if you are crossing a road. If dad knew about what just happened, he wouldn't let us leave our house anymore considering how overprotective he is.
Rudolph: Yeah...and I still remember how difficult it was for mom to enroll us in this school because dad insisted we should remain home at all costs.
Cosmo: You still remember that as a little immature kid?
Rudolph: Of course I do. But now that I think about going to school, I would rather spend my childhood at home.
Cosmo: Me too....but look. I know school can be very stressful especially when Jake and his gang is around but you got your bro with you.
Cosmo takes a look around once again....
Cosmo: Let's cross safely now okay?
They cross the road and continue walking home. A little bit later, Cosmo notices Rudolph's unusual silence and gloomy look on his face and comments about it....
Cosmo: Hey....bro. Are you okay? You look somber...
Rudolph: I am so stupid.....I almost got myself killed earlier....I just can't get this out of my head.
Cosmo: C'mon bro don't dwell on that close call. There are better things to think about than that.
Rudolph: Like what?
Cosmo: Well....let's see....uh...that certain chick you've been drooling over all day....
Rudolph: Cosmo.....NO! Just....STOP!
Rud's face turns pink from embarrassment but then a smile appears on it as well....
Cosmo: Ah you look much better now!
Rudolph: You do know how to make a sad fox happy again but just don't bring her up in front of our parents or I will not talk to you for a day.....
Cosmo: Only for one day? That's fine. I can live with that.
Rudolph: Fine, then I won't let you play on my PawStation for a week.
Cosmo: You mean on OUR PawStation? I share the same playing rights with you!
Rudolph: You know what, I will stop doing your homework then or helping you during an exam.
Cosmo: No! I need you, smart cookie!
Rudolph: Then don't tell mom and dad about anything that happens to me in school okay?
Cosmo: What about Jake and the way he bullies you almost every day? We are gonna talk about this affair with our parents and while we are at it we should also mention their past and make them talk openly about it.
Rudolph: That's going to be a really tough conversation to hold....
About ten minutes later, the brothers arrive at their house. The house they live in stands out from the rest due to its luxurious look. Blake and Regina have put a lot of money into refurbishing it and giving it a fresh look. They enter the living room and put down their backpacks by the door.
Cosmo: It feels so good to have this heavy rock off of my back.
Rudolph: Home sweet home. This is the best place on Earth!
Cosmo: Do you...smell that?
Rudolph: Smell what?
Cosmo: Use your snout silly....
Rudolph: I knew it....mom wouldn't leave without cooking a meal for us!
There are noises coming out from the garage....
Cosmo: Of course. Dad must be tinkering with the car again. Let's go check him out.
The brothers head after their father. They knock on the garage door but he doesn't hear them because of noisy rock music playing.
Cosmo: I can't stand this type of music.
Rudolph: What? It's pretty nice and uplifting in my opinion. It's just inordinately loud for my ears!!!
Cosmo: Let's just walk in.
The brothers walk in and they see their dad lying half under the car....
Cosmo: Told you. Hey....dad! We're home!
Blake doesn't hear them...
Rudolph: I think it would be wise to turn the volume down...
Rud turns the radio's volume down while Cosmo lightly kicks Blake's leg. Blake reacts quickly and bonks his head making the brothers burst out laughing.....
Blake: What the....
He crawls out from under the car all dirty and looks at his sons shaking with laughter incessantly...
Blake: You boys are really enjoying yourselves. I'm so glad to see you back home! What's up?
Cosmo: Sorry for interrupting you dad. I know you've been toiling in your garage ever since early morning but we just came here to tell you that we're home. Oh and maybe Rud can tell you how our day went in school, RIGHT RUD?
Rud gets nudged by his brother to encourage him to speak....
Rudolph: It was great really....however we could really use some break from those mind-numbing subjects.
Blake: Hmmm I thought studying was one of your favorite activities given how smart you are Rud. Is there anything else you'd like to tell me perhaps?
Cosmo: Rud just wanted to tell you....
Rudolph: Cosmo...don't....
Cosmo: That he is just....tired of being the best in our class.
Blake: That's good! They are no match for his knowledge. Your future's so bright and I mean both of your futures. I wish I could hug you two right now but.....my fur is plain greasy. I can already see myself taking one of those long warm showers.
Rudolph: You can hug us anytime later dad. We need PURE HUGS!
Blake: Yeah you're going to get those from mom right away when she comes back. The meal is in the kitchen by the way.
Cosmo: Aren't you coming to eat with us?
Blake: Nope. I'm already full.
Rudolph: Do you know where mom went?
Blake: She's gone shopping with her friend. She should be back very soon.
Cosmo: And dad, can we have a....serious talk later as a family?
Blake: Sure thing. As long as you know my limits we can have a serious talk.
Cosmo: Got it. See you later dad.
Rudolph: Catch ya later! Off we go!
Blake: Hey just don't forget to do your homework after your meal!
Cosmo: We'll try to solve those "mysteries" the teachers have given us later.
Rudolph: You mean you let ME do our homework later?
Cosmo: Correct!
Rudolph: Don't be such a slacker!
The brothers leave their dad in the garage as he continues working on his car. They get back to the kitchen....
Cosmo: I don't understand why he doesn't pay a mechanic to fix the car....
Rudolph: He doesn't want to do that because he would die of boredom.
Cosmo: You said that so accurately bro! But things are changing for him tomorrow.
Rudolph: Can't say the same about us...I mean about me. It's going to be the same day all over again. Nine times out of ten, I am confronted by Jake with his servile friends when we enter the school and then they just keep bothering me all day in between classes...
Cosmo: That's why we need to put an end to this bro. Talking about this with our parents is the best way to approach this problem and you seem to be avoiding this...
Rudolph: That would make things worse and it would simply give them yet another reason to poke fun at me for being a weakling. Let's not talk about this. I got used to it and I can deal with it myself.
Rud walks into the kitchen, grabs a plate and dishes out a lot of food for himself....
Cosmo: You are so wrong. If we don't take action, then you're going to grow depressed and I don't want you to see my brother depressed and sad.
Rudolph: Are you coming to eat or not?
Cosmo: Yes, I am....
Rudolph: Less talking, more eating....
Cosmo approaches the kitchen counter and checks Rud's plate....
Cosmo: Are you really going to stuff yourself with all that food?
Rudolph: Yeah, I want to be as strong and big as you. I want them to suffer for being jerks to me.
Cosmo: I don't consider myself strong or big. I am only a few inches taller than you. If you want to have the power to wipe those bullies off the surface of this beautiful planet, then eat healthy food and workout. Only then you may look like dad and be as strong as him. But that would be the way of violence I suppose. You don't want to hurt them back because they hurt you. You must be pragmatic and tell our parents about those assholes, they will call them to account for bullying you.
Rudolph: That still doesn't warrant me an untroubled life in school....
Cosmo: Don't be silly Rud. C'mon. Jake and his friends would be forced to go to the principal's office where they would undergo a rigorous discipline. That's exactly what they deserve.
Rudolph: Whatever. Those actions won't do any good for my welfare anyway.
Rud sits down and starts eating his meal...
Cosmo: If you say so my greedy little piglet...let's see how you'll deal with your "friends" at school tomorrow without my help or our parents' intervention. Oh and did I mention that mom will find out sooner or later that you're being bullied in school if we don't tell her anything and keep it as a secret?
Rudolph: Just cut it out already.
They hear someone walking up the porch outside. The door gets opened and mommy Regina arrives struggling with two heavy bags in her hands.
Rudolph: Mom's back!
Cosmo: And she looks like she needs help!
Regina: Hi guys! I've....had quite the shopping as you can see...
The brothers then rush to her and grab the bags from her....
Cosmo: Let us help you!
Regina: Awww guys! That's so thoughtful of you! You can put them right by the fridge.
The brothers put the bags down on the kitchen floor next to the fridge.
Rudolph: You and Sarah are crazy about shopping!
Regina: Well, that's true. I and Sarah are shopping maniacs! I absolutely love shopping with her especially when it involves buying miscellaneous goodies for you guys. I just wish we could do that together as a family.
Cosmo: Mom you know we detest shopping. Maybe if you had a daughter she would go anywhere with you at the drop of a hat.
Rudolph: Hey speak for yourself! I would go with mom but I just....don't like society.
Regina: How about you boys tell me how your day went in school?
Cosmo: Boring....
Rudolph: I would rather not talk about school at home at all. I hate it when you put me on the spot with school related questions.
Regina: Why not? Isn't it a parent's moral obligation to ask about their children's day after school?
Rudolph: You know I can only answer blandly.
Regina: Rud, I ask you about your day because I just want to make sure everything is alright.
Cosmo: Did you hear what she said, Rud?
Rudolph: Oh shush! Let me just finish eating my meal okay?
Cosmo: I'll join you in a minute.
As soon as Rud sits down to finish eating his meal, his ears droop. It's something that his mom notices immediately but does not point it out....yet.
Cosmo: Hey mom. Dad already agreed to do this so I wanted to ask you too. Are you up for a serious talk later today?
Regina: Of course darling. I think our family really needs it....
Cosmo: You bet it does. We can do that right after we unpack the bags and finish our homework. Oh and by the way....
Cosmo gives his mom a big hug. Rud joins them in a second too!
Regina: Awww guys! Words can't describe how much I love you two!
The brothers then release Regina who looks closer into Rudolph's eyes....
Regina: Is everything okay?
Rudolph: Yes, can't you see how happy I am to see you?
Everyone then hears Blake rev the car's engine in the garage...
Cosmo: I think dad got it working!
Regina: Did he get himself all dirty too?
Cosmo: Just wait till you see him.
Blake then finally comes in after spending half of the day in the garage trying to fix the car....
Blake: Hello everyone!
His fur is covered in oil and it's relatively dirty from the hard work....
Cosmo: Gross...
Regina: Before you come any closer and kiss me, consider having a long shower.
Blake: Don't worry, I am not going to get you all mucky. I just hope you bought a pack of shampoos and conditioners for my fur. We are kinda starting to run low on those.
Regina: Cosmo....
Cosmo: I am on it.
Cosmo reaches into one of the bags and pulls out a pack of shampoos with conditioners.
Cosmo: CATCH!
Cosmo throws the box towards Blake who catches it...
Blake: Thank you!
Regina: Your fur will look so silky after showering.
Blake: Does that mean we can have a nice smooching time tonight?
Regina: If you'll remain clean, yes.
Cosmo: That's going to be a real challenge for dad.
Blake: No I swear the car works faultlessly. I am not going back to our garage anytime soon. I'll see you guys in a bit.
Blake walks upstairs to shower...
Regina: Rud? Why are you....
Regina and Cosmo both look at Rud who just finished eating his food...
Rudolph: So quiet? Because I was busy eating this mouth-watering food?
Cosmo: You got back to your chair and we didn't even notice.
Rudolph: I was famished okay? I didn't eat anything today!
Regina: Didn't eat anything? What happened to the sandwiches I made for you to eat in school?
Rudolph: Nothing....
Cosmo looks very surprised about this...
Regina: Did they just simply vanish? Turn into thin air?
Rudolph: You could say that...
Regina: I just can't wait to discuss this during your planned family talk. Something feels off. There's something that you're afraid to tell me.
Rudolph: I am not hiding anything from you.
Regina: Listen carefully, I am your mother and I know when something's wrong with any of you, so please don't try to throw me off the scent and just be completely honest with me. I just want to help you and make sure you remain happy.
Rudolph: I understand mom. Just...don't get mad at me....
Regina: You're plainly upset, why would I get mad at you?
Cosmo: I'll...unpack the bags while you two resolve problems...
Cosmo begins to unpack the bags while Regina and Rudolph talk to each other...
Regina: How long have you been dealing with this?
Rudolph: Dealing with what?
Regina: Bullying....
Rudolph: How do you....know? It could be something else too!
Regina: You are disinclined to talk about school stuff and whenever me or your dad mention something about it you try to stray away from that subject most of the time. Cosmo, are you dealing with this problem too?
Cosmo: Me? Absolutely not. I am just his "defender". They show no interest in messing with me whatsoever. It's just Rud who is the main target in our class. This could have been resolved long ago but he insisted on keeping this a secret and pretend this is all non-existent.
Rudolph: Shut up Cosmo! I've made it this far without your help. I can live with it.
Regina: Don't be rude, your brother is right. And how long do you think you can keep living like this with so much pressure?
Rudolph: Hey, just because I look weak doesn't mean I am not mentally strong. I can deal with it myself.
Regina: I won't let them harm you or do bad things to you anymore. We will talk about this during our serious family talk that you want to have.
Rudolph: I don't want to partake in it. It was all Cosmo's idea. Not mine.
Regina: It's not you who decides who will partake in the family conversation and who will not. Wash the dishes and do your homework. We'll discuss this together as a family later.
Rudolph: Fine.
Regina goes upstairs to her bedroom to change clothes....
Cosmo: I told you she would find out sooner or later.
Rudolph: This day is going to be so much tougher than I thought it was going to be.
Cosmo: Everything is going to be just fine. I'll be there with you. Same in school, I will make sure they stay away from you.
Rudolph: I feel like I am not even acting my age and the worst of it is the fact that I am just a faint-hearted kid who lets everyone make fun of him.
Cosmo: It doesn't matter what you are. You'll always be the best brother in the world and the most special person in my life. You are more than what you think you are Rud. Everyone has a living monster within them that they can unleash.
Rudolph: I'll take this as a little encouragement. Those words you just said are really heartwarming and that's just.....*starts tearing up* exactly what I need in these difficult times....
Cosmo: Oh bro, c'mon....
Cosmo stops unpacking the bags for a moment and approaches his brother to comfort him....
Cosmo: Before you say you're an emotional wreck, it is absolutely okay to cry...I'll be always here for you!
Rudolph: Oh my god....I just couldn't hold it in. Thank you so much for being the brother I really need.
Cosmo: You're so cute right now. How about this, you let me finish eating, unpacking the bags and washing the dishes while you take our backpacks upstairs to our room. I'll come after you after I am done here. Then we will do our homework playfully together so we can enjoy each other's company by playing games or watching movies and shows.
Rudolph: Sounds good to me really.
Rud wipes off the tears from his face...
Rudolph: But...I don't want to be that indolent guy who walks away leaving you all the work to do.
Cosmo: You can still be helpful by doing what I told you to do bro. I'll handle the rest okay?
Rudolph: Alright then, I'll see you upstairs.
Cosmo: And Rud....
Rudolph: Yeah?
Cosmo: When did they eat your sandwiches?
Rudolph: You were with Mr. Dawson back when it happened.
Cosmo: Oh...but when I came back why didn't you tell me? I would share my lunch with you...
Rud just sighs in despair, grabs the backpacks and walks upstairs without a response.
Cosmo: Okay.....back to work.
Cosmo ate his meal, washed the dishes, unpacked the bags, put all the goodies to their place and walked after his brother who was waiting for him prepared to do all the homework with him. The two had a wonderful time together doing their homework and as time went by they decided to watch some TV shows together until evening when their mom knocked on their door...
Cosmo & Rudolph: Come in!
She opens the door...
Regina: It's time. We are waiting downstairs....
Cosmo: We'll be there in a minute.
Regina: Okay.
She closes the door....
Cosmo: Rud, you let me do the talking okay? This is the perfect moment to finally learn about their past.
Rudolph: What if it will have the same result like last time?
Cosmo: It's been so long since we brought this topic up. I want to know the truth finally and I bet you too. It's NOW or NEVER. Let's go.
Rudolph: Okay but I am starting to think it's not a good idea.
Cosmo: Just let me do the talking and everything will be just fine.
The brothers leave their bedroom and head downstairs into the living room to have a serious talk with their parents. They sit down on a couch just opposite of their parents.
Blake: Before you make a comical remark about my scent, I want you to know that I mixed two variants of shampoo and applied a conditioner on my fur. The oil wouldn't come off so I had to find a way to get rid of it in the most extreme way.
Cosmo: I was about to make mention of your strong yet pleasant smell.
Regina: You shouldn't have misapplied them honey, but to be honest, I love your smell more than ever now.
Rudolph: Mom, I think dad just wants to smell good in your presence to look more...appealing.
Blake: C'mon you know that was not the reason I did this to myself!
Regina: I loved him the same even when he was all dirty just so you know sweetie.
Blake: Do you see what love is capable of? It's truly a phenomenal force. I'll never regret meeting your mom.
Cosmo: Meeting our mom....dad.....
Blake: Yes? Oh....of course. We came here to talk about the serious side of life. I heard Rud is having a rough time in school. I suppose that's the main topic of our discussion.
Cosmo: More on that a bit later. Dad, you said that when we get older you'll tell us everything about your past and how you met mom. It breaks my heart to not know absolutely anything about your lives before we were born. I just....I got so many questions about you two. How did you get so much money to afford even the most expensive stuff? Why do you wear that collar? How did you two meet? What was your life before we were born? I want answers right now! Please!
Regina and Blake look at each other worriedly....
Regina: I guess....it's time to tell them the truth honey.
Blake: I don't think I am ready for this.
Regina: It's your responsibility to tell them about your past, not mine.
Blake: I know...
Regina: Blake, this is something we have to inevitably contend with. We both knew back when they were born that we would have to tell them the truth at some point.
Cosmo: So? Are you going to break the silence or not? We are old enough to know about it.
Blake: Cosmo, it is not as easy as it seems...
Cosmo: What do you mean it's not as easy as it seems? Is your past that complicated? If you are hiding something vile from us just tell us! There's no point in keeping us from knowing the truth no matter how bad and upsetting it is! PLEASE DAD!
Blake: NO! You don't want to know what I've done! YOU ARE NOT READY FOR IT.
Cosmo: I AM READY! AND DON'T YOU GIVE ME THAT FUMING LOOK ON YOUR FACE! BE THE FATHER WE DESERVE, NOT A DISHONEST FOX PRETENDING TO BE A LOVING FATHER!
Rudolph: Cosmo calm down! You are overreacting!!!
Blake: WATCH YOUR TONGUE COSMO! YOU ARE STILL TOO YOUNG TO KNOW ABOUT THE TRUTH! AND DO NOT TALK TO ME IN SUCH A DISRESPECTFUL MANNER!
Regina: Please calm down both of you! We are not going to get anywhere by manifesting undesirable strong emotions and being rude to each other.
Rudolph: You are being very ungracious bro....just stop and accept dad's reluctance to not tell the truth. Show him some respect! He is OUR dad!
Cosmo: STAY OUT OF IT RUDOLPH! I AM DOING THIS IS FOR OUR GREATER GOOD!
Rudolph: At first you wanted me to be a part of this discussion and now you are saying I should stay out of it? Fine, my opinions are useless anyway by the looks of it.
Cosmo: DON'T YOU WANT TO KNOW THE TRUTH?
Blake: ENOUGH COSMO! Just give it a rest. I don't want you to be foaming at the mouth like that. It doesn't do any good for any of us.
Regina: I've never seen him this furious before....
Blake: He just showed his true colors and he clearly doesn't know my limits...
Cosmo then stands up heatedly from the couch determined to force his father speak truthfully about his past....
Cosmo: DON'T BE A COWARD DAD AND GET ON WITH IT! I AM LISTENING!
Regina: DON'T SPEAK TO YOUR DAD LIKE THAT! WHAT DID HE DO TO YOU TO DESERVE THIS?
Blake: Regina.....it's fine. He'll get what he wants....
Rud stands up and walks up to his mother while Blake gets on his feet and approaches Cosmo...
Regina: What are you doing?
Rudolph: I just hope he isn't going to do what I think he is about to do....
Cosmo: WHAT? ARE YOU GOING TO SLAP ME FOR BEING A SPOILED CHILD? JUST MAKE ME HAPPY FOR ONCE BY TELLING ME THE TRUTH!
Blake: You want the truth about this KILLER FOX in front of you? HUH?
Blake is approaching Cosmo at a slow pace as he talks to him...
Regina: Oh no....Rud go to your bedroom now!
Rudolph: No...I am staying here!
Blake: I HAD A FAMILY BEFORE I MET YOUR MOM! I LOST THEM ALL IN THE BLINK OF AN EYE AND THEN I BECAME A RUTHLESS HITMAN WORKING FOR A CRIMINAL ORGANIZATION! I MURDERED INNOCENT MAMMALS AND CHILDREN OF YOUR AGE FOR MONEY! THAT'S WHAT KEPT ME ALIVE DURING MY JOURNEY TO VENGEANCE! IT MUST FEEL SO NICE TO KNOW THE TRUTH ABOUT YOUR FATHER NOW HUH? ARE YOU HAPPY NOW? DOES THIS MAKE YOU FEEL ANY BETTER? ANSWER ME!
Cosmo is outright devastated about his father's revelations of his past. He is unable to respond to due severe discomfort...
Blake: DO YOU THINK I WEAR THIS SHIT ON MY NECK FOR NOTHING? THIS WAS MY PUNISHMENT! MY FREEDOM WAS TAKEN FROM ME FOR FIFTEEN LONG YEARS! THERE, YOU GOT THE PAINFUL TRUTH YOU WANTED!
Cosmo backs off from his father with teary eyes and then Regina jumps in between them to stop Blake from putting even more pressure on his son....
Regina: ENOUGH! This has gotten out of control! He heard enough! This is NOT how you tell your kids the truth!
Blake: He asked for this, Regina! I did what he wanted me to do!
Regina: But this will leave a mark on their poor hearts for a very long time!
While Blake tries to justify his harshness, Cosmo begins to run away from them back upstairs into his bedroom, sniffing and about to cry...
Rudolph: Cosmo!
Regina: See what you did?
Blake: What was I supposed to do? He grew too unruly! I had to be cold to bring him under control for God's sake!
Regina: I know it wasn't easy but you should have chosen a more gentle approach.
Blake: Not everyone is as softhearted as you and it doesn't matter anymore, none of this. They already know what a monster I am. Excuse me....I really need a moment of solitude.
Blake leaves the living room and walks outside into the backyard. When Regina turns around she sees Rudolph standing there sorrowfully...
Rudolph: That escalated quickly. I am really sorry you had to go through this mom. I....don't know how to feel about this meltdown between my brother and dad.
Regina: Rud...darling....
She embraces him and softly kisses his head...
Regina: I am going to check up on him upstairs while you wait here. I want to ask you a few more questions about school. But if you need a break from me....just tell me, I'll understand after what just happened. I won't bother you.
Rudolph: No, it's all good. I love you mom and I really need you to be with me in these troubled times.
Regina: Awww! I love you too!
She kisses him on his cheek and stares into his glimmering green eyes. The resemblance between her and her son is remarkable.
Regina: You...don't really seem to be that grief-stricken and disappointed like Cosmo...
Rudolph: You know, dad's past may have not hit me right in the feels that much, but that moment when he said the truth is a real game changer for the future. Things are going to be much different now knowing my father's true nature. What he did in the past is just unimaginable and wrong but he has a family now....us. We are his source of happiness and as long as we stay together and love each other, I'll never be grief-stricken.
Regina: Awww Rud. You're just like me. Family is the most important thing in our lives even when ours is a bit unusual but just like you said, if we will love each other and stay together, we'll always be happy.
Rudolph: There's something I really need to tell him I'll be back.
Regina: Rud sweetie, I wouldn't go after him right now if I were you. He needs some time to be alone, to reflect on our family situation.
Rudolph: I need to try.
Regina: Good but...if he asks you to leave then get back inside. I'll go see Cosmo. He looks like he really needs someone's company.
Rud then walks outside to the backyard while Regina goes upstairs after Cosmo. She knocks on the door three times gently. She opens it slowly and sees Cosmo sitting on his bed holding his head in his paws. She walks in without saying anything. But then Cosmo peeks at her....
Cosmo: Mom? Not now....I need some time to be alone. Please go away...
Regina: Cosmo....I just....
Cosmo: What?! I don't want to talk with anyone right now. The door is that way. Bye.
Regina: I am sincerely sorry about what happened between you and your dad. He didn't mean to hurt you...
Cosmo: Is there anything else you'd like to tell me? Something top secret, something that will break my heart even more? If not then please turn around and bugger off.
She does exactly what she has been told and leaves the room hurt by her son's behavior. Meanwhile, Rudolph sits down next to his dad on the stairs that lead into their garden with a huge pool.
Blake: Oh...it's you. I am....sorry for being aggressive. I should have just...walked away without saying anything hurtful. I failed to be a good parent...and a father. I feel so sorry that you had to witness this...
Rudolph: Dad....you spoke to him intently with strong emotions and I just wanted to say that I understand the pain you're going through. I understand everything and let me just say this straight way....you are still my dad and I'll love you forever.
Blake: Are you serious? You....don't hate me for what I did?
Rudolph: We shouldn't look back at our past and let it affect our present life and the future. What really is important is the present and the fact that we are living happily together as one big family. You may think you are a ruthless monster for your acts from the past but you treat me, my brother and mom with so much love that it is really impossible for me to be either afraid of you or hate you. I am a fifteen year old fox who knows the definition of love all thanks to you ...and mom included of course. I really can't hate you for all the memorable experiences I had with you during my life. I am just thankful I wasn't left in an adoption center all alone without a family.
Blake: You really want to make this old fox weep? You're just like your mother, compassionate, forgiving and beautiful. I wish Cosmo would understand it the same way you do.
Rudolph: He will get over it. I am going to try to buck him up, are you coming with me?
Blake: I don't really know. He didn't look like he wanted to talk to me anymore after our "serious family talk".
Rudolph: You can speak to him in the morning then if that's a more convenient time.
Blake: I just hope I didn't turn him against me. I really didn't mean to hurt his feelings.
Rudolph: I'll just go talk to him.
Rud is about to stand up when Blake grabs his paw...
Blake: Wait...
Rudolph: What is it dad?
Blake: Your mom told me about your problems you're facing in school. Why didn't you tell us this sooner?
Rudolph: I didn't say anything. It was mom who found out and the reason I didn't want to talk about it is because I didn't want you to worry about me too much.
Blake: If being constantly bullied is bearable which I think it isn't at all, then I won't do anything about it. How does that sound?
Rudolph: It.... really isn't fun and games and now that you know about it there's nothing I can do to convince you to not do anything.
Blake: That's right! I am going to come to grips with this bullying situation. I can't simply let them make fun of MY son!
Rudolph: I want them to pay for all the embarrassment they made me go through.
Blake: I will make it stop. Just remember, a stitch in time saves nine.
Rudolph: But you can't come tomorrow, can you?
Blake: My punishment ends tomorrow at twelve o'clock and I don't know if I can trash this collar and roam free after that specified time, so I'll have to wait for some instructions and possibly go through some legal stuff still. But mom can go...
Rudolph: No....mom would go easy on them. I want you to intimidate them and make them afraid to even look at me!
Blake: Then you'll have to wait until Monday. Are you going to be alright tomorrow without me then? It's Friday after all.
Rudolph: My brother is always with me.
Blake: And he is not being bullied?
Rudolph: Interestingly enough, no. Maybe because he is braver and stronger than me. He's that one fox in our class you don't want to see angry.
Blake: I'll make them be afraid of you! I will make the fun end forever for those fools!
Rudolph: Thank you for being a great dad.
Blake: You may go now.
Rud stands up and walks up to the door. Before he gets back into the house he takes one last look at his dad who just keeps sitting on the stairs...
Rudolph: Aren't you coming inside?
Blake: I'll sit here for a few more minutes. I am trying to recover from that discussion.
Rudolph: Are you going to be alright?
Blake: Yes, no worries. I've been much worse.
Rudolph: Alright, see ya dad!
Rud then walks inside only to see his mom sitting back on the couch staring into space....
Rudolph: So, how did it go mom?
Regina: When he spoke to me, his eyes were glittering with resentment. That's everything I can tell you about how it went. He wants to be alone but I believe he will listen to you. How about you and dad?
Rudolph: Oh....I managed to brighten up his day.
Rud smiles at his mom and goes upstairs after his brother. When he enters the room, Cosmo is lying on his bed with his head buried in the pillow. He does not seem to be aware of Rud walking into the room. He approaches him quietly and sits on the edge of his bed. He lightly taps his shoulder and wakes him up....
Cosmo: Mom....leave me alone.
Rudolph: It's your brother you dork!
Cosmo sits up....
Rudolph: Are you okay?
Cosmo: Yeah...I am okay but my heart isn't.
Rudolph: Is there anything I can do to make you feel better?
Cosmo: Tell me...how come you don't look affected by what just happened earlier? Do you even realize what he just said?
Rudolph: I do and I understand him. I spoke to him moments after our family talk. He is sorry for being harsh and threatening....
Cosmo: Sorry my ass. I see you can't make heads or tails of the current situation brother.
Rudolph: What the heck do you mean? I am well aware of his actions from the past and I do feel bad for him. He had a family before we were born, before he met mom and he lost them all. Can you imagine all the pain he has been through? So don't tell me I don't really comprehend this situation okay?
Cosmo then stands up and walks up to the window....
Cosmo: It was obvious for me that he did something illegal before because of his collar and the fact that he was only allowed to leave the house only one day per week for twelve hours but I never thought he would commit such bestial acts.
Rudolph: Are you afraid of him?
Cosmo: Tell me one good reason I shouldn't be? He can snap anytime and kill us. You saw him earlier! I felt that rising anger in him. He was inclined to harm me until mom stepped in.
Rudolph: Hey, stop deluding yourself. You know he would never do that! He NEVER laid a hand on any of us before. We are his treasure that he keeps deeply in his heart. It was you who got carried away and caused this family disturbance.
Cosmo: I...just wanted him to tell us the truth so badly. I learned one important thing from this, truth can be really painful.
Rudolph: He tried to warn you if you remember. You weren't ready for this.
Rud hears someone coming upstairs....
Rudolph: Someone's coming...
Cosmo then turns around and then they both watch as the bedroom door slowly opens and their dad walks in....
Blake: H-hi!
Rudolph: Hey...
Cosmo: Dad...
Blake: I know I am a monster in your eyes...and hardly a father anymore.
He comes closer to Cosmo who then looks away as Blake speaks to him...
Blake: I would like you to accept my apology. I shouldn't have acted so irresponsibly and menacingly.
He gets no response from his son. He just keeps staring out of the window....
Blake: Cosmo....please. I can tell you are VERY disappointed and I clearly failed to be a good father at this point. I just....I just want you to know that I still love you and nothing's going to change that even if you probably no longer consider me a good person. My main responsibility was to make your childhood happy and trouble-free. I do sincerely hope I made your lives beautiful until today's unfortunate events.
Rudolph: Dad....it's not your fault and you didn't fail to be a good parent. I couldn't wish for a better dad!
Blake: Thank you Rud. The world needs more foxes like you.
Blake smiles at Rud before turning around and walking towards the door, that's when he hears Cosmo speak....
Cosmo: I am not disappointed in you. I am disappointed in myself and the way I talked to you back there. I didn't do myself any favors by losing all self-control and being rude.
Blake walks back to Cosmo who finally looks into his father's eyes....
Cosmo: And I don't accept your apology because there's no need to be sorry about it. It's me who should rather apologize. I wasn't ready to hear about your past and I still demanded answers, making you go through many mixed emotions...
Blake: You had the right to know who I was before you were born, but still not now. We are a family and there's no family without these types of conversations. We went through a really bad time but in the end, we still love each other. Your apology is accepted.
The two then hug each other. It doesn't take long and Rud joins them too....
Cosmo: We love you dad!
Blake: If you need to talk with me about absolutely ANYTHING...I'll unreservedly answer any of your questions.
Rudolph: Dad is bending the rules for us!
Blake: What's the point of keeping any secrets anymore right?
Cosmo: That's...nice of you. But right now, I could use some rest. I had a pretty tough day as you can tell, just don't take the blame for that okay? It's all good.
Blake: Alright guys. Go get some rest or resume your activities that you like to do on a daily basis. I'll see myself out.
Blake then leaves the room relieved and happy knowing that his boys do not regard him as a hostile ruthless fox.
Cosmo: This was such an exhausting day if you ask me.
Rudolph: First school and now this. I am glad this family mayhem ended with a reconciliation.
Cosmo: Speaking of school, did they talk to you about this bullying stuff?
Rudolph: Dad's going to take care of that.
Cosmo: Him? Jake is going to shit his pants I am telling you.
Rudolph: I can't wait to go to school stress free.
Five hours later...
After showering, the brothers are getting ready to sleep. They are already lying in their respective beds. Rud is covered with a blanket turned against the wall while Cosmo is browsing the internet on his pawdroid smartphone. Rud just keeps turning around in his bed, unable to sleep until he notices Cosmo's phone illuminating the room a bit. He sits up and asks him if he can jump into his bed to watch him do things on his phone.
Rudolph: Hey bro....do you mind if I get in your bed for a while to watch some fun things on PawTube?
Cosmo: My bed is also your bed. Come!
Rudolph: I would do that myself with my own phone, but screw it...too lazy for that now...
Rud then stands up in enjoyment and snuggles up to Cosmo to watch videos with him. It doesn't take long before they both get drowsy.
Cosmo: I am getting really sleepy over here. Let's call it a day bro.
Rudolph: Same. I hope tomorrow's going to be so much better than this difficult day. Goodnight Cosmo.
Rudolph then turns around and covers himself with Cosmo's blanket who gets a little confused about him sleeping in his bed.
Cosmo: Uh...Rud? Your bed is on the other side of the room.
Rudolph: I am certain I heard you say your bed is also my bed a while ago.
Cosmo: But....Rud I don't think it's...
Rudolph: Just save your breath and let me sleep. I am not going anywhere. I am way too tired to stand up and walk to my bed.
Cosmo: Oh boy....this is going to be...an interesting night.
Cosmo has no other choice other than sleep with his brother. His blanket is wide enough to cover them both....
A couple of minutes pass and Rud is already in deep slumber while Cosmo just lies on his back staring into the ceiling.
Cosmo: I have to do this....
He said it with a low voice as he nestled close to his brother and faced his back, wrapping his arms around him. That's how you enter spoon mode and have an extremely comfy night. Cosmo falls asleep really fast right next to his brother. This not so great day finally came to an end.