While it was now common knowledge that chocolate is poisonous to cats and dogs, though the particular reason for that is not always known. The main factor is a chemical called theobromine. For humans, it just causes a warming sensation. For cats and dogs, it can act like super-caffeine and raise their heart rates to dangerous levels. It was hard to say how many other animals suffered from the same problem, but all Animalians were told to avoid eating chocolate just in case.
However, a solution to that particular problem has been found. Carob can be used to make chocolate like cocoa beans. People who are allergic to chocolate in some form or another can eat carob and it was a harmless treat to give cats and dogs. Animalia became interested in carob farming as soon as they found out it was safe for their consumption. However, the yearly climate in their corner of Nevada was wrong for carob trees. Still, Animalian interest in carob-based chocolate has caused the market for it to grow exponentially.
A good example of that would be the Easter party that was going on at the Meat Market. Easter being so close to Earth Day this year, the party was extended out for the week. The main theme of the part was chocolate, with several chocolate eggs placed on the tables and chocolate fountains with various treats to dip into them. Many Animalians came to the party to satisfy their long-neglected sweet teeth.
"You know, Simon, there are other things you can dip into the fountain besides doughnuts," Mary Alice told her husband.
"So? I've been craving these," said Simon as he was eating his fourth doughnut.
"I know you're a cop now, but you don't have to fall into that old stereotype," said Malice.
"I happened to like doughnuts before I converted," said Simon, "Long before I considered becoming a policeman. I think I'm allowed to indulge myself."
"Keep indulging yourself and you'll lose your manly figure," said Malice, poking Simon in the stomach. Of course, there was no sign of any softening right now, she could still feel his abs.
"And you'd enjoy getting me back in shape," said Simon with a friendly growl.
Just then, they heard a familiar voice call, "Malice, how are you?"
Malice looked to see Jessica and Roger. "Oh, Jessica, I didn't know you were in town," she said.
"There's a brief break between productions so we were able to come back to Lyre for a while," said Jessica.
"Well, it's great to see you again," said Malice as the two rabbits sat down.
"Nice to be back," said Jessica, "What's it like running the Animalia Ambassadoria show?"
"There's a lot more work behind the camera instead of front of it," said Malice.
"Not that you haven't been in front of it a few times," said Roger dryly.
"Well, I'm still letting the kids do most of the work, and they're pretty good at it," said Malice.
"Especially Polly," said Simon, "She's got a knack for it."
"Who would have thought she had so much potential?" asked Jessica, "Not that I thought she lacked it, but she's exceeding expectations."
"I thought I recognized that voice." Jessica turned to see Shyra. "Jessica, finally coming down to the upper echelons to mingle with the common folk?" asked Shyra teasingly.
"You can aspire if you wanted to," returned Jessica in the same teasing tone.
"I've got a good thing going here," said Shyra, "Anyways, Fabina needs all the rabbit workers she can get for this shindig."
"Yeah, I think I see Morgan Laurens over there," said Roger, pointing. They looked to see Morgan was serving drinks and wearing the same skimpy outfit as the other waitresses. Though she didn't seem so bothered by it.
"I thought Morgan's punishments were finished," said Simon.
"They are," said Shyra, "But Joanne still has the right to lend her services to other people. Besides, I don't think Morgan minds it as much anymore. I can tell she's changed since last year. Maybe it's because her ex-husband found a better wife than her. Maybe it's because she's a grandmother now. But she's not nearly as bad as she used to be."
"Well, everyone should get a chance to redeem themselves," said Simon, approvingly.
"I think she's also been trying to get the attention of those rabbit rangers she converted," said Shyra.
"Well, it is breeding season," said Jessica.
"Speaking of which, how's married life treating you?" asked Shyra, "Thinking of having kids?"
"Once we've gotten more established, we'll consider it," said Jessica, "It's a bit harder to perform when you're pregnant."
"Me and Simon have been thinking about it, but we want to be sure Sarah and Travis will be having pups too," said Malice.
"Haven't seen them for a while," commented Roger, "Or Abby and Samson for that matter."
"Well, I think those two will be moving to Montana soon," said Malice with a sigh, "So hard to keep up with old friends when they move away."
"That's why we have communication," said Shyra, "I'm sure you'll find some time to see each other."