FIRST SALVO
A Zootopia fan fiction by Dan

Rated M+

(c) Zootopia 2016 by Disney Animated Studios
(Artist ownership) Ayden Gull from BRO GULLS by Anti_Dev
(Artist ownership) “I Will survive” by William Borba 2017
(Artist ownership) Will and Alex Gray, Sheath and Knife by Harmarist
(Artist ownership) Anubis and the buried bone by Harmarist
(c) (Artist ownership) The K’zin by Lary Niven.
(Artist ownership) Don Carnage Disney’s TAIL SPIN
(Artist ownership) Ikkey the Fox Kit by Inkbunny’s Ikkey
(Artist Ownership) Master Guns Flash by Inkbunny’s Flash Timberwolf
(Artist Ownership) Chuck  Dawson (cat) From Omaha the Cat Dancer  Reed Waller 1994
(Artist Ownership) Jag Damien Tiger from PuffyFluffy of Inkbunny
(Artist Ownership) Dean Wilson from the 1980 cartoon Animalympics
(Artist Ownership) Tanya Mousekovitz from American Tail
(Artist Ownership)   Corporal Blotasky and Lieutenant Perkins from “Cat Shit One” The Animated Series by (c) Motofume Kobayashi

Chapter 33: Home and retirement

      “The day after...I got up as always. I checked my e-mail, got my usual cup of coffee, made the usual quick breakfast and went….as always….to get my freshly pressed working uniform from my closet. I was putting on the shirt when I realized...”What am I doing?” and put the uniform back in the closet. I spent the rest of the morning…...sucking down more coffee.”

The author. The day after his retirement.

4 am
Fleet Welcome Home Day
Nick and Judy’s house, Downtown Zootopia
28 August 2040

      “They say…..the number one killer of old mammals? Is retirement.” The Deer buck said as he sat with a home made drink in his hoof hand. “People got’em a job to do? They tend to live a little longer so they can do it. I’ve always figured warriors and their enemies share the same relationship. So now that you ain’t gonna have to face your enemy on the battlefield any more? Which “R” are you filled with? Relief? Or Regret?”

       The gorgeous female mountain lion who sat in a chair replied with a toothy grin...”A little bit of both.”

       Judy clicked off the television from her bed...”Kill Bull Two...how appropriate to wake up to that scene today.” She said as she stretched then slowly turned to give Nick a kiss on the nose. It was the same routine as every other day…

       “Morning shower…...ten minutes.”

       “Morning brushing….ten minutes.”

       “Brush teeth….five minutes.”

       “Fuss over nails and wild hairs…..too much.”

       “Make funny faces in mirror…..too much.”

       “Coffee, carrot cake, vitamins, check email, check news, check the police blotter for the previous night shift…...another hour.”

       “Get dressed…..fuss over appearance….fuss over appearance more…..fuss again….shine badge…...shine badge again…...shine badge a third time. Look at self in mirror….kiss Nick…..hug Nick…...kiss Nick again.”

        Up at 4am, out the door by 7am. Clock work precision. Routine keeping life in uniform rythm….except it was all about to go into the snit can. Judy shook her head and she climbed into her cruiser. What a way to view what should be a very happy day for her but those little aches in her joints as she climbed into the drivers seat were a jabbing reminder that she was 24 years from the first day she stepped out into the world as a police officer….

       “Officer Hopps! You ready to make the world a better place?!” She thought of  her first time in the bull pen when her enthusiasm was akin to the fox flu, rabidly annoying. Yet it stayed hot for 24 years and she felt she could give 24 more… spiritually yes...but her body was telling her clearly...”This is a younger mammal’s world now...let them lead, you’ve done your time.” Yet you can’t quell habit and you can’t completely extinguish reservation. Judy felt much was still not finished but she’d simply run out of time and she couldn’t defeat age.

       “The cruiser still smelled nice and still looked great. It wasn’t the car Nick and her were in when they got into that terrible accident but the cruiser she’d been issued when Bogo finally relented and gave her street assignments.

       “Now be careful Hopps?” Bogo grunted. “It’s not exactly built to fit.” An obvious jab at the size disparity between a bunny and an obviously huge car meant to carry big offenders.

       “Yeah….” Judy said as she smiled and smelled the newness of the vehicle. “But it’s big enough to have sex in?” Judy said as she lay seductively across the front seats...”Laughter”….”Your face is priceless Chief!” She yelped at Bogo.

         “So help me Hopps! If you wreck this vehicle with your over-enthusiasm for catching miscreants...”

        Judy patted the dash as she drove. The car would be taken out of service because it was an old car past the department’s declared equipment life policy. It would be “de-cop’d” as in all the law enforcement equipment would be removed and the police colors painted over. Eventually...Judy would get it back as a gift. Realizing that Nick’s ever degrading physical condition would someday require “adapted support equipment” the department pitched in money to have the cruiser fitted for “physical challenges”. It only made the morning more somber than joyous. Judy knew she was going to ride the emotional coaster to hell today.

Stopping at a red light. She turned her head to look at the sidewalk in front of a Deers and Steers clothing store and giggled to herself. It was that little block of now aged concrete where Nick tricked her into standing in wet cement…

“You can only be who you are…...sly fox…..dumb bunny.” Nick said as he gestured.

“I am not a dumb bunny.” Judy replied frowning.

“Riiiight.” Nick replied. “And that’s…..not wet cement.”

And when Nick proposed to her as she sported a very big pregnant bunny belly...he took her back to that spot and said...”I was the dummy and you are my Honey Bunny. I don’t deserve you. I’m sorry Carrots. Will you still have me as your husband?”

The drive brought back a ton of memories. Arrests, pursuits, shoot outs. The dentist where Jackson giggled at his first pulled tooth. The store where Nick bought her wedding gown. The other coffee shop besides “Yogi Boob” where Nick still gets his morning daily dose of coffee and a fox pastry. The parking lot where Judy almost lost Nick the first time when he went into a cardiac arrest because of the way he slept in the passengers seat during their hour long required nap when they worked the night shifts under night supervisor Zazu Morris (Zazu from Lion King).

“He’s not waking up!” Judy yelped and cried as she held onto Nick with a death grip. “NICK! He’s not waking up!”

“Let him go! Let him go Judy!” Officer Delgato (Tiger) screamed. “Gawd damn it Judy! Let go of him!” The tiger snarled as he pulled Nick from the cruiser, put him on the ground and started doing CPR on him…

“Come on….come on Nick...don’t you give it up this easy.” Delgato said as his powerful lungs filled Nick’s chest up. The fox gasped loudly, coughed then woke up hugging the big Bengal as he came back to life. 

A tear dropped from her eye and Judy had to pull over. A year later….Delgato was killed by a drunk driver on the highway during a stop. She was deeply indebted to him for bringing Nick back, it was that night she and Nick consummated their love and conceived their son. She’d never allow herself to forget Delgato. Now feeling renewed...Judy drove into the First Precinct parking lot and slowly parked the cruiser in front of the maintenance garage where “Shagless” the long time precinct auto mechanic stood having his morning coffee.

Note: This is the old Puma from the Bugs Bunny Cartoons.

“Hey-eeeeeeeeeee Chief Wilde.” Shagless said as he leaned against the driver’s side door. “Finally bringing the old girl in to pasture eeeeeeeeeee?”

“Morning Shaggy.” Judy said as she hopped down from the cab.

“Hey….I just wanted to say it’s been a great time with you Chief...eeeeeeeeeeeee you’ve made my life less boring you know?” Shagless said smiling as he extended a paw.

“I hope the new chief won’t be as abusive on the force equipment as I’ve been.” Judy said as she shook the Puma’s hand.

  “No worries Chief….eeeeeeeeeeeee...you can’t have a safe city if your not willing to work the tools of the trade. These cars were meant to be abused. You just enjoy retirement and get all the work you can out of the old girl. Wait till you see what we have planned for you with this old cruiser.” Shagless said as he climbed into the driver’s seat and swung Judy’s custom designed “bunny pedals” out of the way. “Now get out of here Chief before you wash us away with your tears?”

    Judy walked to the side doors that led to the main atrium of the First Precinct which was humming with the usual morning activity of shift change, officers coming off the night shift and officers coming on the day shift. Various mammals flocked around the coffee and pastry table and Page Clawhauser was already at her Kiosk processing some new arrival case...who promptly decided he could chance bolting out while still in hand cuffs?!

    Judy reacted quick. She ran to the closest pillar, leaped into the air, bunny bounced off the vertical surface and launched herself against the cuffed perp, a bull moose, and slammed her feet into his snoot! The moose spun like a top and crashed to the floor!….

     Then also, with sort of a clumsy crash, did Judy. She sat for a moment to catch her breath as Dawn Bellweather came running up concerned…

      “Judy! Judy are you alright?!” Dawn asked as she placed a hoof hand on Judy’s shoulder.

      “Yeah...” Judy replied. “That’s what I get for not stretching before work. Give me a second ok?” 

      “Bound and determined not to go out lightly are you?” Dawn sad as she helped Judy to her feet.

      “Just had to get in one last take down.” Judy replied with a slight smile as she watched two tiger cops pull their charge off the floor…

       “One thing’s for sure Chief?” One of the Tigers said. “Your feet are still dangerous. Enjoy your retirement.”

       Page Clawhauser walked up with a red folder in her paws….”I guess this is also your last signed arrest reception sheet.” She gave Judy the folder and petted her on the head. “This is allowed isn’t it?”

       “I’m not saying no.” Judy replied as she signed the sheet. “Is your Uncle planning the reception at Buckies?”

        “Who else would?” Page replied as she took back the folder. “Chief Jordan is waiting for you in her office.”

        Judy smiled. “You don’t know how weird that just sounded Page.”

        “Oh Chief….I am so….so sorry. That was….” Page gasped out.

         Judy patted her leg and smiled. “It’s nothing Page. Nothing bad at all. Jordan is Chief now...or she will be as soon as I sign all the papers.” Judy blew from her mouth. “Well? Here it goes everyone. Can’t delay this thing another minute.” Judy said as she started to walk. She then grimaced as a knot in her left calf snapped on her and she felt like she got struck with a truck…

      “Ok? Maybe we can wait a few more minutes after all?” She said to herself as a wolf officer named Shanus walked up…

      “Chief? Would it be alright if I?” The gray and black wolf asked as he held his paws out.

      “Yes Shanus.” Judy replied as she allowed Shanus to pick her up and snuggle her to his soft cheek.

      “It’s going to be dull without you.” The big wolf said.

      Judy pulled on his jowls….”It won’t be if you give the new Chief the same enthusiasm you’ve given me. Now please don’t start balling and howling Shanus? You’ll get every wolf for miles doing it now...put me down?”

      Shanus put Judy back on the floor and kissed the top of her head. “You just be sure to visit every now and then ok?” The gray wolf said with a paw wave as he walked off. Judy proceeded to the mezzanine above the atrium floor and stood for a moment at her….Jordan’s…..office door. Already the name was gone and replaced with Jordan’s name and title...”Chief, First Precinct”.

      Judy took a deep breath, smiled and entered the office with a buoyant radiance..”Good morning Jordan!”

      “Good morning soon to be retired former Chief Wilde.” Jordan replied with a smile. “You ready Judy?”

       As always, Judy bounced up onto a chair at the desk and sat with her paws between her spread legs...”Ahhhhhhhh…..yes! Yes I am! Time to let the younger generation show their stuff and lead our city in an even better tomorrow!”

      Jordan gave Judy a slight smirk...”And now comes the real feelings.”

     “Alright...” Judy said with a sigh...”It’s a front ok? I am scared….snitless.”

     Jordan got out of her chair, walked up to Judy’s and patted her on the leg. “Everything will be fine Judy. Tomorrow morning you’re going to wake up, look over at Nick and say...”I would rather spend a day being screwed out of my mind by you than sitting in a smelly old police cruiser.”

     Judy laughed...sniffled a little…..laughed some more and wiped her eyes. “Let’s do it so I don’t start crying and flooding the office?”

      Jordan turned around to the desk and grabbed a blue leather official looking folder….”Chief Wilde. I have here the completed turn over form which states that you have provided a complete pass down of information including all precinct equipment and vehicles as stated in the department registry. Are you sure that all information is complete and accurate?”

      Judy nodded her head. “I do so state that I have been truthful and that all records are indeed in order.” She said seriously.

       Jordan opened the folder and signed one of the two sheets. “Very well...I, Captain Jordan do hear by accept and assume all responsibilities as Chief of Police, First Precinct of Zootopia, this day 28 August 2040.”

       Jordan then passed the folder to Judy who read it for a moment then pulled out her own pen to sign it. “I...Chief Judy Wilde….do certify with my signature that I have given my replacement a full acounting of all information including all equipment and vehicles assigned to the First Precinct of Zootopia, this day 28 August 2040. I therefore with my signature resign my official duties as Cheif of Police.”

     Judy signed the document, pushed her paw into a pad of ink and pushed it down beside her signature. She then stood up and saluted Jordan….”Chief of Police Jordan? The care of the flock now rest with you.”

     “I accept the challenge and the call of duty as the flock’s shepherd.” Jordan replied. She then turned to tap her intercom...”Would some officers please report to my office to witness the proceedings of retirement?”

     Judy watched as several uniformed mammals came through the door and stood around the room. Jordan grabbed another folder and stood before Judy…

       “Judy? You realize that the City is going to retire you with its’ own celebration soon but I know you’re just wanting to get started as soon as possible. This is the day of your official retirement from the force. Given that your son is coming home from deployment today? We didn’t want to waste time with a party this morning. Judy? Are you ready to go?”

       Judy nodded her head quietly. She looked like she was about to lose it.

      Jordan cleared her throat...” Chief Wilde...There is no need to give a long speech. Everyone here this morning, all your fellow officers know that you exceeded everything you had set out to do 24 years ago when you first came into the force. You always said...”Make the world a better place!”….well Judy? You can not deny that you’ve done that for our city a hundred times over. Your record and the record of the force while you were a beat cop and then our Chief is a testament to you drive and your love for this department and for our city. It is indeed with heavy hearts and deepest affection that we all say farewell. In my paws former Chief of Police Judy Wilde is the records form authorizing your retirement from the force and the retirement pay and benefits you have so well deserved. Judy? Are you ready to sign the authorization of retirement?”

      Judy nodded her head and then she lost it. The officers gathered in the room sounded encouragement and clapped their paws and claws with cheers as Judy took the pen and signed herself out of uniform and into retirement…

      Officer Willy Packster, grandson of former officer Francine “Franny” Stomper bellowed with his elephant trunk and threw up his arm….”For she’s a jolly good bunny! For she’s a jolly good bunny! For she’s a jolly good bunny! Which no one can deny!….”

      A Tiger officer picked up Judy and bounced her on his shoulder as everyone danced around….”For she’s a jolly good bunny! For she’s a jolly good bunny! For she’s a jolly good bunnnnnnneeeeeeeeeeee! Which no one can deny!….”

     The tiger put Judy on the floor as officers both in the room and outside cheered and noised their happiness! Judy took a moment to stop crying...”Oh Great Frith…...sigh…..You know? You know all of you are just…..just…..the most wonderful, the most loyal, the most excellent mammals I’ve come to know. It’s been a joy being here with all of you through the years, wearing the same cloth, the same badge and pounding the same beats….and I know I’d better stop talking or I’m going to be here all day balling my cotton tailed butt off…..I’m going to miss everyone….”

          “Quit while you’re ahead Chief!” Officer Billy Blanard (Hyena) yelped. “Chief Jordan? Can I take her back home before she starts growing roots like an annoying weed?”

          Jordan waved a paw...”Yes. And be sure to stop at the local sex shop downtown? I think former Chief Wilde needs to stock up on toys.”

          “Jordan!” Judy huffed back.

          “Shut up Wilde.” Jordan warned. “You’re now a civilian and you shouldn’t be past the reception area. Officer Blanard? Kindly get this civilian out of my office and out of the restriction zone? Enjoy your retirement Judy, You earned it.”   

7 am
Fruit Market, Downtown Zootopia
28 August 2040

          The youngster was in his seat...then on the floor board….then poking his head out the window and lolling his head in the wind….them climbing all over the big bear sitting patiently through the torture while the youngster beat him over the head with a stuffed animal...then he repeated the process of kindergarten craziness all over again while the driver tried not to crash the limo from laughing his butt off…

        “Are you gonna tolerate this boss?” Dino “The Butcher” Ferrini (polar bear) asked Tall Pauley. “Such disrespect I tell yah.”

        Pauley grabbed the little polar bear cub up and held him by his ankles...”You want me to ice your behind Prudenzo?”

        “Uh uh Ganny!” The cub yelped back.

         Pauley turned Prudenzo right side up and sat him down in his car seat. “Then little cubs must learn to sit quietly while the car is in motion….capeesh? Otherwise Grandpa don’t spoil his favorite grand son with salmon after his first school day. You understands?”

        “Uh!” The cub replied enthusiastically. 

        “I love you my little stuffed cup of joy.” Pauley said as he kissed Prudenzo on the head. He then thought….”Hey Dino? Ain’t we near Candy Stripe Lane?”

       “Yeah….two blocks, why boss?” Dino replied.

          “Cuss I have business to tend too before I drop off my little fluff of joy here.” Pauley said as he looked at the little cub. “Hey squirt of sunshine in my eyes? Would you like to see Grand Pa at work?”

         The cub replied with a rapid, tongue flapping nod.

         “Don’t do that in class ok?” Pauley said as he cleaned the drool from Prudenzo’s lips. “That’s not dignified.”

Candy Stripe Lane, Tundra Town

        “I can let you have it for two fifty Zoo Bucks. Trust me….any other fence would see this movie gem for three times that much.” Duke Weaselton (the weasel from Zoo 1) said to the arctic fox who carefully inspected the leather coat.

        “And your sure this was worn by Clint Eastwoof in “Mighty Quinn”?” The fox asked.

        “Look at the tag inside, that is definitely “his” scribble zig. I’ve had it appraised three times by top paw print experts. I’m only getting rid of the thing because it’s hot commodity.”

        Tall Pauley couldn’t believe this character. He had no understanding at all of self awareness or protection, putting his little operation up at a cross way with a street at his back? This was too easy. So Pauley decided to make it interesting…

       “Did I hear you say you were selling a Clint Eastwoof jacket?” Pauley asked as he stood right behind Weaselton, which for a visual perspective was like an ant standing in front of the Palms Hotel in Sahara. And that was a pretty good absurd size comparison.

       “Yeah bub.” Weaselton replied with his back still turned to Pauley. “And I ain’t letting it go for any less than Two Fifty Zoo’s so give me a higher offer.”

       Tall Pauley waited for Weaselton to turn around before he unleashed a toothy vision of roaring hell and spit upon the small rodent…

      Weaselton turned white as a sheet, pissed his pants, dropped his jaw, cried “mother” and took off running!

        Pauley stood for a moment as if waiting for a reason to move. Little Prudenzo played along, allowing Weaselton a sporting chance before he pointed his paw past his grand father’s face and screamed “Sick em Ganny!”

       A polar bear as big as Tall Pauley doesn’t need to expend much effort against so small a “prey item” and at the moment poor Weaselton was just that as he got snatched off his feet by the long bounding bruin and thrown into a pile of garbage!

       Tall Pauley unleashed another toothy display of fierceness which got his grand son laughing and giggling like crazy….”Oh? You like that huh?”

       Weaselton cringed against the pile of trash bags till he saw the bear cub riding on Pauley’s back….”Oh? Is that “your” grandson Tall Pauley? Oh my gawd? He is so adorable! Looks like you really.” Weaselton tried to make some bear noises and swiped his paws around which got little Prudenzo giggling and clapping….

     “Why yes he is.” Tall Pauley said smiling. “He’s my precious fluff stuff. Ain’t you Prudenzo?” Pauley said as he tickle played with his grandson and caught Weaselton trying to slink away….

      A massive white paw pushed the weasel into the wall behind him...”And where do you think you’re going? You realize I had to interrupt taking my grand son to his first day of Kindergarten to come chase your scrawny, silly butt because it would seem you have a little dementia when it comes to filling your obligations, you read me?”

    “Obligations?” Weaselton said nervously. “What obligations?”

    Pauley growled….”Don’t play me weasel! You signed a legal contract and there was no small print and it was fully explained to you. You took out a loan which you need to pay up. Did you sleep during the penalty explanations you stupid failure from ferret university?”

    “I never got out of elementary school.” Weaselton replied as he shrugged.

    Pauley sighed and looked up….”Great gawd of the Northern Winds? Restrain my urge to cap this idiot? Look here weaselton? Non-payment of debts is usually carried out with a nice ice bath but...I’m gonna give you one more chance since today I am taking my light of joy to his first day of Kindergarten. The Don? He expects some proof that we had a conversation so….

    Pauley held Weaselton over his right shoulder. “Prudenzo? Left side.”

    “PLUCK!”…..”OWWWW!”
  
    “PLUCK!”…..”OWWWW! STOP! PLEASE!”

    “PLUCK!”…..”OWWWW! PLEASE! NO MORE!”

    “PLUCK!”…..”OWWWW! MERCY PLEASE!”

     Pauley put Weaselton in front of his snoot as the crying weasel rubbed his own abused snoot…

    “You won’t be walking so good missing half your whiskers. If you refuse to pay up by next Monday? You won’t be walking good at all. You “renig” on your obligations again Weaselton? You’ll be lacking fur and wind up a “weasel pop”. You read me?” Pauley warned.

    “Yes! Yes!” Weaselton whimpered.

    Pauley pulled the jacket Weaselton was trying to fence from his back pocket. “Now about this jacket? Is it an honest article?”

    “Yeah! Yes it is.” Weaselton replied cringing.

    “You ain’t trying to lie to me are you?” Pauley asked.

    “No!” Weaselton begged. “I swear Pauley! It’s the genuine deal. I got it from “Light claws Eddie” in Savana, I swear it’s all level!”

     Pauley looked at Prudenzo and smiled. “Then consider this the full payment of your debts. I’m feeling charitable today since this is the day of my grandson’s first day at Kindergarten. I’ll cover your spread but in the future you will owe me a service. Are we level?”

Weaselton nodded meekly. “Yes”

Pauley then pulled out his wallet and paid Weaselton 250 Zoo Bucks. “For your trouble. Sorry to have been so rough with you but business is business you understand?”

“I guess.” Duke nodded thinking he’d better agree. He watched Pauley and the cub walk off and smiled wickedly to himself….”A few lost whiskers but I still got my talents.

7:30 am
The Destroyer Growler, ISERM Berthing
28 August 2040

     Kyle couldn’t help but whine and pant a little with joy at the expert preening of his bushy tail. A glowing compliment about now would probably make the fox-bunny screw up so Kyle kept the urge to sing a little over-exuberant sonnet until Jackson made one last clip with a pair of scissors then ran his paws through the thick fur to fluff the fox plume up…

      “And we’re done.” Jackson said. “Do you like?” He asked smiling.

     Kyle stood up and waved his tail wildly….”I like! I like! I like it!” He said giddishly. “Jackie? You! You are an artist superb! The happy fox said as he kissed his tail. “Never seen Celeste look so clean and wonderful, thanks Jackie!” The fox said as he reached into his uniform pocket and gave Jackson a fifty Zoo Buck.

     “That’s too much Kyle.” Jackson said.

     “And ten is an insult so you keep it or you’ll insult me.” The fox replied. “Damn Jackie, you should ask for that much for the work you do? Heck you have a monopoly right now, your work is at least worth fifty per fox?”

      “I don’t “shark” happiness Kyle.” Jackson said as he played with Kyle’s tail. Now don’t forget to tallow and powder her before you stow her in a sock or she’ll be a stinky mess by the end of the work day.”

      Kyle smiled back. “Your honesty wins you a lot of friends Wilde. It should make you rich too but I admire you for how you act. Your parents raised you great.” Kyle gave Jackson a lick kiss on the head. “Have fun today. Come and get me for drinks? I’ll pay.”

     Jackson turned his attentions to his own dress uniform to get it ready for arrival into port. He was just about to put the top on the ironing board when Gilly walked up to his bunk…

     “Morning Jackie.” Gilly said with a wave.

     “Morning Gill.” Jackson replied. “Did Kyle pass you leaving a cum trail or what?”

     “Now what brought that on dude?” Gilly asked snickering.

     “I just finished his tail and I think he was getting weak kneed from an orgasm.” Jackson replied.

     “Well….your work does have that sort of effect with foxes.” Gilly replied.

     “You ready for port?” Jackson asked. “Is she going to be there or are we going to your place for the after party, party?”

       Gilly played with his paw fingers...”Jackie? Can I talk to you in private? I mean...real private….like the fan room?”

       Jackson pursed his lips...”Ok...are you alright?”

       Gilly’s face told everything. Jackson grabbed him by the arm and took him to another row of racks where two foxes were getting their dress uniforms ready. “Hey? Sissel? Merkland? Can you guys do us a favor and guard the fan room door? I need to talk to Gilly alone.”

        The two foxes followed without complaint and soon were standing outside the latched (Dog’d in Navy term) door into the compartment fan room.

Note: A fan room aboard a navy ship is a compartment that houses vents and an electric distribution fan which circulates temperature controlled and re-freshed air through a ships interior, especially when the ship is “buttoned up” for combat.

       Jackson stood while Gilly sat on an air vent looking as if he’d whipped the family pet and felt a wave of terrible guilt…

         “Gill? Are you alright?” Jackson asked as he bent down. “You look sick and you’re not breathing well...”

         “Of course I’m looking sick! I’m flucken scared out of my cotton tailed ass Jackson!” Gilly snapped back hard then waved his paws with worry...”Jackie! I’m sorry! I’m just….I’m just scared...”

         “Gill? If you don’t take a minute to breath? You’re going to pass out, breath.” Jackson said as he put his paws on his friends shoulders. “Come on Gill… breath deep.”

        After a few minutes….Gilly looked better….

        “Now?” Jackie asked. “What’s got you so droopy eared and chatter teethed?”

         Gilly paused to think then replied. “Jackson? I have lied to you and to Darla and to everyone and I am so sorry that I did that. You’re my best friend Jackie… one of only a few and…..and I don’t want to lose you but I’m scared...”

        Jackson nodded...”Ok….you lied. Obviously it’s ripping you up bad….”

        Gilly blurted out….”Jackie? I’m gay.”

        “Well….” Jackson said with a slight smile. “Kinda had some suspicions for a while. Well….Darla was the one who brought up the suggestive hint about your girl friend not being real but....Why did you have to lie about this?”

         Gill said...”You’re mad at me.”

         “Being a little upset at being lied to is a little different than being mad, Gilly. If me and Darla are as close to you as you say? then why did you lie to us? What about this girlfriend of yours?” Jackson asked.

         “He’s a wolf.” Gilly replied. “Oh mammal….oh I’m gonna be sick...”

         Jackson helped Gilly sit on the deck and bent his head between his knees...”Now breath Gill...breath or I’ll call a medical emergency on you.”

         “Uhhh...this is so scary.” Gilly said.

         “Yeah...you’re shivering but you’re gonna be fine. So? Why did you lie about having a girl friend? Why did you try to hide being gay? I thought you and I were best friends? You’re going to be the best mammal at me and Darla’s wedding, doesn’t that say something between you and me?”

         “I knew you followed the rabbit faith.” Gilly said as he rubbed his head. “I was afraid you’d shun me if you found out.”

          “Yes...I follow my mother’s faith but what does El-ahrairah have to do with you lying to me? The most important thing in friendship is trust Gilly, have I ever given you a reason not to feel safe enough to talk to me?” Jackson asked as he sat on the deck.

         “But you know what most El-ahrairah ministers teach about homosexual rabbits? That we don’t contribute to the warren, that we’re vile, that we’re on the same level as vermin? And me being in love with a wolf? Oh that’s a special case. Rabbits….beat the fleas out of fluffy tailed faggots. They kick us out of the families, run us out of the boroughs….I joined the Navy at a branch in Savanna because it was all I had left because news and rumors travel so fast within our kind. What rabbit wants to hire a faggot? Especially when all he’ll do is cause disruptions with all the other rabbits?”

        “And so you still lied to me and Darla?” Jackson asked frowning.

        “I had no other choice!” Gilly yelped. “I was scared, I didn’t know how to tell you! Now I’ve broken our friendship and you hate me.”

       “Will you stop bowing and kissing the stupid deck plates Gilly?” Jackson asked. “Frith’s sake, have dignity for yourself? You haven’t lost me, you haven’t lost Darla, you haven’t lost anything and I don’t care if you kiss a wolf, a tiger, a lion or…..well? An elephant? Now that would be bizzaro.”

        Gilly sat sobbing...”I’m so sorry Jackie...I’m sorry.”

        Jackson reached for a paw...”Be fortunate that my Mom is not only devout to her faith, she actually reads the scriptures and takes notes….a lot of notes. It’s a cop thing with a side of OCD. Yes….El-ahrairah wrote a lot about the importance of family, of having a lot of kittens, that male and female are necessary to perpetuate our species but he also spoke about free choice and the right of every rabbit to chose his or her way through life. No other rabbit may “force” their ways upon another or threaten one another to change the choice of life another wishes to pursue. And Gilly? Abandonment of rabbits by others over their choices is a high sin El-ahrarah hates. Rabbits, as El-ahrarh wrote, must stick together as “a whole family”. Problem is?...the way the scriptures have been taught through the millennia has been totally perverted over the years. Look at how my Dad’s species was viewed by rabbits and Frith made foxes because rabbits were selfish, brash, bull headed and trying to eat the world clean of grass! The fox was never the enemy of rabbits but that’s how the scriptures have been taught.”

      Jackson rubbed Gilly’s shoulders...”Gill? We’re not going to leave you. I will never leave you. You are my best friend in the whole world, gay or not. Just promise me you won’t cheat on “him” with like a hundred other mammals, catch an STD and give that to him then I might get more than a little upset.”

      “You? You promise you won’t leave me?” Gilly asked.

      Jackson stood up and went to the fan room door….”Hey Merkland? Can you come in here?”

       Merkland the silver fox, a second class petty officer, stepped into the room. “Is he alright Jackie?” Merkland asked.

       “No.” Jackson replied. “He’s kinda…..gay.”

       “Jackie! What the fluck?!” Gilly yelped!

       Merkland waved a paw….”Easy dude...my lover is a male snow leopard. You’re all right.” He said to Gilly.

       “Gilly needs protection in case some of the rabbits on this ship find out he’s gay and decide to have a little fun. I was thinking you and the other foxes might “drop a few hints” that actions have consequences?” Jackson said to Merkland with a paw finger wave.

       “Why not just take it up the chain of command?” Merkland asked.

       “Because there’s a wider risk beyond the ship if this gets out.” Jackson said. “For now? I think Gilly wants to keep his love a little “compartmental” like “It’s no one else’s fricken business?”

        Merkland nodded...”A friend of Jackie’s is a friend of foxes. You ain’t got nothing to to fear dude.”

        Gilly looked at Jackson and started to cry….”Jackie? Jackie I?”

         “We’re pulling into port to a humungus block party and you’re going to be a cry baby? Sheesh...what’s “he” going to think? By the way? What’s his name and what does he look like?”

         Gilly reached into his pocket and pulled out his wallet. “His name’s William Gray. He’s a sweet gray wolf and…..well you’re not gay so…..excuse my…..he’s fricken gorgeous.”

        “William Gray?” Jackson asked. “You’re not talking about the anti-war wolf Will Gray are you?”

        “I’m not bragging.” Gilly replied smiling. “I certainly know how to hook a gay fish huh?”

         “Well...he’s pretty smart.” Jackson said as he looked at the picture of Gilly snuggling under Will’s chin. “To say nothing of being handsome for a wolf. Does he treat you ok? He’s not mean and a jerk in real life is he?”

         “No! He’s wonderful!” Gilly said excitedly. “Wait till you meet him Jackie, I swear you’ll….gee I am really pushing the gay on you ain’t I?”

          “Ok….you’re in mad, passionate K-9 lust, I get it Gill.” Jackson replied waving a paw.

           Gill then patted Jackson’s chest...”Wait? Ummmm….you and Darla have to treat us like were just old school friends ok? Don’t slip up and drop hints that we’re a gay couple? Please Jackson? Please be careful when you meet him? I mean….he’s got this huge reputation to protect and all….”

        Jackson giggled….”I promise I will not “Gay-tray” you guys. But you both have to come over the apartment alright? For dinner?”

        Gilly gestured. “Just you...me….Will and Darla?”

        Jackson nodded back. “Yes Gill...now let’s go so I can get my uniform squared away? And take a shower again? You’ve like sweated out a ton of water in the last ten minutes and you stink.”

         Gilly stopped Jackson short of the door and wrapped himself around him… “I don’t know where I’d be without you Jackson!”

        “You’d be an absolute mess.” Jackson replied. “Everything’s cool between us Gilly.”

7:30 am
The Gray Family House, Rain forest District
28 August 2040

     “Grace? Where’s my dress shirt?” Gordon Gray asked as he came out of the bathroom wiping himself off with a towel.

     “I just finished ironing it honey!” Gordon’s wife replied from their bedroom.

     Alex came out of his own bedroom and about had a heart attack as he almost came into collision with his naked father…

    “Damn Dad!” Alex yelped. How about some BVD’s or underwear or something over your sack! Damn!”

     “I thought you were accustomed to naked males by now son?” Gordon snorted.

     “Oh…...fluck you tranny banger!” Alex snapped. “Wrap your fricken schlong pop? Sheesh, the “squid” never left you did it?”

      “Suddenly prude and modest? Yup, you are one ate up Jar-pup aren’t you?” Gordon snickered. As he appeased his growling younger son and wrapped himself with his towel. “Before we go to Sahara dad?” Alex asked. “I have to talk to you and mom about something important? When you’re not “free balling” around the house?”

      Moments later, Gordon, Grace and Alex were together in the kitchen having coffee. Alex stood thinking of the words to say and adjusting his throat to be more adult than cubbish. Even at sixteen he still sounded sort of a kid which annoyed him…

     “Aahemm….Mother? Father?” Alex said in a deep voice. “I want to have my own place. I want to move out and live on my own.” Alex said commandingly.

     Grace looked at Gordon, Gordon looked at Grace...”Ok son...when do you want to do it?”

     Alex was shocked. “Seriously? That’s it? I just said I want to move out of the house? Me? Alex? The baby?”

      Grace smirked. “Last time I checked Alexander? You’re not wearing diapers any more.”

       “But? I mean….no….”Well Alex? You haven’t finished High School yet. But Alex? You don’t have a job yet? But Alex? Till you leave for the Marines, you have it easy here with us….”

         Gordon barked. “Alex?”

         “Yes Dad?” Alex answered.

        “Don’t talk yourself out of it?” Gordon said as he poked his son’s nose.

        “You guys want to get rid of me?” Alex asked.

        “I thought you wanted to live on your own?” Grace asked as she smiled. “Alex, you’ll be joining the Marines so it’s better you start to ween yourself away from us sooner than later. And we can turn your room into your Dad’s new tool room.”

       “Mom?!” Alex yelped.

       Gordon thumped his son in the chest. “Do you want to live on your own or not? We’ll spot for your apartment, so long as it’s reasonable, but you have to get a job within 30 days and prove to us that you will be responsible. I have no doubt about you Alex so don’t disappoint us.”

        Alex wagged his tail furiously! “Thanks Dad! Thanks Mom!” Alex yelped as he hugged and slobber kissed them both. “You guys are so cool!”

        “I think we did an ok job with you and William.” Gordon said as he wrapped an arm around Alex’s shoulders. “Give me a moment alone with him honey?” Gordon said as he took Alex into the living room…

        “So?” Gordon asked. “Between you and Will? It’s definitely over….right?”

        “As you might say Dad?” Alex replied. “Bridge burnt, shredded, ground to powder, covered with gasoline, rigged with C-4 and blown strait to hell.”

        “You are a hundred percent sure that it is over?” Gordon asked again.

         “Dad….it is over with. Please don’t torture Will today?” Alex begged.

         Gordon pursed his lips and nodded. “Alright then. No more need to be said about it. But? Don’t disappoint me with this chance I’m giving you. Stay focused on what you want to do. Your mother only needs to hear good things, got it?”

         “Yes Dad.” Alex replied. “All except for one thing? Do I really have to drive that complete snit box of a jeep?”

         “We all have to pass through the fiery torture of our parents vehicles Son. This shall pass.” Gordon said smiling.

          “Not the smell.” Alex replied snorting. “The thing probably smells like the tranny you ass banged by mistake. Does Mom know that yet?”

          “You had better keep your little mouth shut you know-it-all pup.” Gordon warned.

         “Then “you” need to get “me” a nicer car…...Dad?” Alex snickered back. 

8am
Special Underwater Warfare Center
Mongoose River, Rain Forest District
28 August 2040

        Virgil flew effortlessly around the Olympic pool. Twisting, rolling and turning sharper and tighter than he ever had before with his new prosthetic tail working seamlessly through every angle and bend of motion. He was so pleased what the doctors had been able to do for him over the many weeks of fitting and rehab he’d done.

         The otter swam for the bottom of the pool, bounced off the floor and rocketed upwards in the deep end to broach the surface and land with a comfortable slide to a stop before a pair of feet. When he looked up, there was Sargent Beezler standing with a new prosthetic arm of his own.

         “Oh.” Virgil said as he stood up. “Beeze? You came to say goodbye?” Virgil asked as he walked to the chair where his towel and clothes were.

         “I heard you got orders to the Outback Islands?” Beezler asked.

          “I did.” Virgil replied as he toweled himself off. “I got assigned to military school house company. I’m going to teach Kowala and Kangy’s how to blow snit up. Did you get placement yet? When do you process out?”

          Beezler replied. “I don’t process anywhere.” He took out his smart phone and showed Virgil the email. “I’m assigned to school house company too.”

          Virgil was surprised...”But you said you were done?”

           “You said we pinky swore.” Beezler replied. “And knowing you? You’ll get yourself into some screw up that I’ll have to save your ass. After all, I can’t leave an undone turn open you know? You saved my dumb tail and lost yours so I have to save you a body part and loose another to make things square.”

           Virgil wrapped an arm around Beezler. “You’re always the crazy dumb ass aren’t you? Admit it? We’re inseparable suffering bachelors who can’t live without each other. We should make a TV show and call it Bosom Buddies or something. Two otters who dress like females to keep an apartment in an all female dormitory because the rent is cheaper.

         “You wear the panties pal.” Beezler snorted. “That’s your speed any way.” Beezler reached down and played with Virgil’s prosthetic tail. “They did a wonderful job but you said there would be a machine gun?”

     “They couldn’t figure out how to add one.” Virgil replied as he petted his friend on the head. “I’m so glad you decided to stay Beezy.”

      “Hey.” Beezler replied. “What the hell was I supposed to do on the outside without you? All I know how to do is blow snit up and lose otters their tails? You think I could sell cars or something?”
          
9am
Nick and Judy’s house, Downtown Zootopia
28 August 2040

       The cruiser came to a stop in front of the house and Judy stepped out of the passenger side as Officer Blanard stepped out of the drivers side and extended his paw…

       “Again Chief? It’s been a real pleasure serving under you. Enjoy your retirement and don’t be a stranger ok?” Billy said with a smile.

      “Take care of yourself and the department Bill.” Judy replied. She then watched the cruiser pull away down the street and sighed softly as she turned and walked to the front door of the house she and Nick would soon sell. She slowly walked into the front foyer, closing the door behind her and the moment the knob catch clicked….

      “Boom! Cha boom boom…. Boom! Cha boom boom…. Boom! Cha boom boom Boom!…..Boom! Cha boom boom….

       The sound of a set of drums filled the air around her as she looked sullenly down at the floor. As she looked up she saw three female chipmunks dressed in grey dress suits with long flowing skirts and white silk bow ties around their satan white shirts…

      The lead singer was stepping a few feet ahead of the other two who stood to her left and right and swooned to back up her every word….

“The night we met I knew I….needed you so…..And if I had the chance I'd….never let you go…..”

     Brittany Miller threw her hands in the air and began to snap her fingers as she walked towards Judy who now gasped and threw her paws to her mouth as her ears flew up! The Chippettes? The Chippettes were in her house?!”

“So won't you say you love me…...I'll make you so proud of me….. We'll make 'em turn their heads….every place we go...So won't you, please…….”

Jeannette and Elanor: Be my, be my baby

Brittany: Be my little baby.

Jeannette and Elanor:My one and only baby

Brittany: Save me my darling.

Jeannette and Elanor:Be my, be my baby

Brittany: Be my baby now!

Jeannette and Elanor:My one and only baby

Brittany: Ah Woe Woe Woe Woe Woe….

Judy looked over to the side of the room to see Nick standing with his paws behind his back. That familiar Nick Wilde stance, that old familiar Nick Wilde Hustler face, the face that snagged her heart from the first day she met him. Slowly he put his paws out before him and his face turned to a countenance of joy and love she couldn’t resist. Crying...she flung herself into his arms and he cradled her lovingly as Brittany and the Chipettes continued to sing….       

“I'll make you happy, baby…..just wait and see…….For every kiss you give me…. I'll give you three….”
“Oh, since the day I saw you…...I have been waiting for you…..You know I will adore you…..'til eeeeeterrrrrrrrnity so won’t you please!”
Jeannette and Elanor: Be my, be my baby

Brittany: Be my little baby.

Jeannette and Elanor:My one and only baby

Brittany: Save me my darling.

Jeannette and Elanor:Be my, be my baby

Brittany: Be my baby now!

Jeannette and Elanor:My one and only baby

Brittany: Ah Woe Woe Woe Woe Woe….
A flourish of beautiful violins filled the air around them as Nick gracefully danced his wife around the room as she cried on his chest. That sly, mischievous, devious wonderful old fox knew how to make her heart melt and make her happiness soar and he did it again!
“Oh, since the day I saw you…...I have been waiting for you…..You know I will adore you…..'til eeeeeterrrrrrrrnity oh won’t you please!”
Jeannette and Elanor: Be my, be my baby

Brittany: Be my little baby.

Jeannette and Elanor:My one and only baby

Brittany: Save me my darling. 

Jeannette and Elanor:Be my, be my baby

Brittany: Be my baby now!

Jeannette and Elanor:My one and only baby

Brittany: Ah Woe Woe Woe Woe Woe….
Jeannette and Elanor: Be my, be my baby

Brittany: Be my little baby.

Jeannette and Elanor:My one and only baby

Brittany: Baby my darling.

Jeannette and Elanor:Be my, be my baby

Brittany: Be my baby now!

Jeannette and Elanor:My one and only baby

Brittany: Ah Woe Woe Woe Woe Woe….
    Nick placed Judy on the floor and held her paws...”Happy retirement Fluff.” He said as he wiped Judy’s eyes...”And now I can spend the rest of our lives making you happy. That’s if you wish it?”
   Judy looked over at the Chippettes...”How did you manage to get the Chippettes to come here? What did he promise you?” Judy asked the girl “munks” who threw back a trio of questionable shrugs.
   “Carrots? I am very shocked that you’d even ask the “how” of this affair from one you know is absolutely gifted in achieving the impossible because as I have so often told you over the years...you’re hubby knows everyone in Zootopia and I do mean…..every one.”
    Nick backed away from Judy with his arms out...”Dear Chippettes? Give me a little background ditty? Not too slow but not too fast on the drum beats please?”
    Eleanor snatched up a small trash can, Brittany pulled out a harmonica and Jeannette snapped her paw fingers to put together a back beat as Nick tapped his foot and bounded his snoot to the beat…
    “Oh Carrots….your hubby is still a scoundrel and a scammer...it never left there sugar tail….and I doooooooo mean…….Sugar baby…..dare to follow ok?……
Nick’s swindle song 
    “I know a friend of a friend, of a friend, of a friend the list it never ends….”
    “I know the Butcher, the Baker, the Candlestick maker, a thousand mammals I contend...”
     “My talents for acquisition my dear, are as many as the stars.”
      “My charm, my smile, my foxy ways could take us very far.” 
      “Bare in mind that most of them are a shade bit illegal, but we’ll exclude them and carry on.”
        “Oh I can get you anything your little heart desires.”
         “A house, a mouse or a mouse in a house, no request is beyond compliar”
      “I can even get you ten stallions to dance the seven veils and that would surely tickle your bunny tail…..but I digress...”
     “Oh I am the fox of all the foxes, sly, cunning and shrude.”
     “I can scam a binkie from a baby but that would be very crude.”
      “If you care to stick with me, your life will be filled with riches.”
      “Never mind the holes I cut in the pockets of your money loaded britches.”
      “Wow….A Masterdon Card….”Don’t leave home without it.”
       “Oh I know a friend of a friend, of a friend, of a friend the list it never ends….”
“Nick?”
    “I know the Butcher, the Baker, the Candlestick maker, a thousand mammals I contend...”
“Nick?”
     “My talents for acquisition my dear, are as many as the stars.”
“Nick?”
      “My charm, my smile, my foxy ways could take us very far.”
“NICK!!” Judy yelped to stop Nick from singing.
“Yes my love?” Nick replied.
“I just got swept off my feet by the Chippettes and I’m afraid you come in a pretty lame second.” Judy said with a smirk.
Nick frowned….”Well? I will just take my foxy pride and my “other lover” Chantelle (Nick’s tail) and bid you adeu Fluff. Hmph! See if I really do get you ten  stallions to tickle your tail again.” Nick snorted as he pretended to be jilted and walked out of the foyer.
End of Chapter 33