Fievel had been lost for three days.
At least, that’s what it felt like.
The streets of New York were louder than the ocean that had swallowed his family—clanging carts, shouting humans, horses stomping past like thunder. Everything smelled like smoke and cheese and danger. Fievel clutched his little hat tight as he wandered near a dark alley behind a restaurant, his stomach growling. music. A soft, jazzy hum drifting from behind a stack of crates. Curious (and very hungry), Fievel peeked around the corner—and nearly bumped straight into a tall mouse in a tilted hat, leaning casually against a barrel.
“Woah there, bambino,” the mouse said smoothly, flashing a charming grin. “Watch where you’re goin’. New York’s got teeth.”
Fievel froze. The mouse was older, confident, with a scarf and a voice that sounded like it belonged on a stage.
“I— I’m sorry,” Fievel squeaked. “I’m just looking for my family.”
The mouse’s expression softened instantly.
“…Yeah,” he said quietly. “Aren’t we all.”
He crouched down so he was eye-level with Fievel. “Name’s Tony Toponi. You look like you could use a friend—and maybe a slice of cheese.”
Fievel’s eyes lit up. “I’m Fievel. Fievel Moskowitz.”
Tony chuckled. “Moskowitz, huh? That’s a good name. Strong name.”
From inside the restaurant, a loud CRASH echoed, followed by human footsteps.
Tony’s ears twitched. “Uh-oh. Showtime’s over.”
He gently ushered Fievel toward the fire escape. “C’mon, kid. Stick with me. New York’s scary—but if you know where to look, it’s also got heart.”
As they disappeared into the city’s shadows, Fievel felt something he hadn’t felt since losing his family.
(you can choose to be one of the characters or be your OC or other)