Today. We have a rather unique opportunity to observe a curious inversion of expectations, in that wild and wonderful land of Bloomburrow. We know all too well the usual tale of fox versus rabbit – one of flight and teeth, of a “villainous” predator and a “maligned” prey. But on this, special night, at Three Trees City, we have an opportunity, to see something quite different. A dashing adventurer, Mr. Foxglove is usually to be seen clothed in fine musketeer’s uniform, complete with puffed sleeves, and a wide-brimmed hat, rakishly perched atop his head, and entwined with his namesake – foxglove flowers. He is never without his weapon – an ornate silver rapier which he controls as if it were an extension of his very own claws. His fur is fluffy and sleek – exemplified most of all by his characteristically bushy tail. It is not for nothing that this fine gentleman has been dubbed Valley’s “most likely to win your heart”!

But tonight, is not like every other night. Our villain, the “fantastic Mr. Foxglove”, has been wounded, and quite badly at that. If he does not receive medical attention soon, there may very well need be another to take up the mantle of Valley heartthrob. He knocks on a door, tentative and perhaps in desperation, his fur and finery covered in mud and the faint crimson of blood – his fine silver claw curiously absent. But this is not just any door. This, is the door to Three Trees City’s inn – and the owner, a rabbitfolk by the name of Ms. Bumbleflower – is renowned far and wide in Three Tree City for her generosity, and grace. The rabbitfolk opens the door and freezes, the foxfolk flinching back. Truly, the tables have been turned here, where our villainous rogue is at the mercy of a heroic proprietor! But no – Ms. Bumbleflower has rushed not away but towards our erstwhile rapscallion, to prevent him from falling! She even goes as far as to lay his head in her lap, and tend his wounds. No roguish grin now to save face while she works. Mr. Foxglove’s amber eyes watch the rabbitfolk intently, but certainly no longer in the way that a predator regards its prey.

In the coming season, Mr. Foxglove is frequently spotted at the Three Tree City’s inn at all manner of times, as he, quite patently, proceeds with his courtship of the most kind innkeeper. Unfortunately, although this interest may be obvious to some, it is not discerned as such by the intended recipient, who is instead shielded by her mother’s protective friends. It may be some time before Mr. Foxglove can convince both them and Ms. Bumbleflower that his intentions are pure! Although Ms. Bumbleflower seems quite oblivious to the unique situation she has found herself in, it is clear that we are privy to none other than one of Nature’s most special of miracles. Love has won.