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
(Artist ownership) The K’zin by Lary Niven.
(Artist ownership) Don Carnage Disney’s TAIL SPIN

Chapter 8
Recruit Training part 6: Sports Day and Graduation

       Let a man put on the uniform. Let him get upon his person a bayonet, a cartridge box, a musket in his hands, bullets in his pockets, the brass plate of the union across his chest and show his willingness to die for all of it and there shall be no doubt that he has earned the right to citizenship in the United States.

Fredrick Douglas
1863

October 12, 2039
Recruit training command
Sports Day

4:20pm
The Log Roll Pool

”Ready?!…….set?!……..ROLL!” The Chief screamed.

Darla and Jackson took off quick with wide cross legged side steps then four legged gallops as they tried to speed each other into making a mis-step! Jackson “fox leaped” into the air and dropped all his weight onto one end of the log to throw Darla off but the Otter whipped her body around in mid-ar, came back down and rolled the log in reverse causing Jackson to run backwards!

“UGH! DAMN!” Turk yelled as he watched Jackson almost lose his balance!

Jackson leaped airborne, flipped his body around and came down again hard on the end of the log...throwing Darla off her feet then reversing the roll direction on her before she landed!

“BYE BYE!” Gilly screamed out, only to watch Darla flip herself off the log, land and catch up with the speed of the roll before she got thrown off!

   All the companies were on the edge of their seats, their paws, hooves and claws contorting and stretched out as if trying on their own to puppet the movements of the two locked combatants as they twisted, jumped and kicked like crazy over the wet, slick rubber surface!

   Now Jackson poured everything he had into a coiled surge of explosive energy, putting his long body, his legs and claws into a wild kicking attempt to throw Darla off or at least get her back legs to splash into the pool which would knock her out…

    She was almost there...and the exhaustion she was experiencing was obvious by the look on her face as she struggled to keep up with the wildly whipping log, her hind legs were practically flopping through the air...she was a hare’s breath from losing…

    Then those longer claws of Jackson’s showed their vulnerability...one snagged itself good in the rubber coating and Jackson flopped into the pool…..

     For a moment there was no sound...then as Jackson broke the surface… Company 260 exploded in celebration! Jumping off the bleachers, running around the pool, jumping into the water and cheering as Darla held her paws out and pulled Jackson onto the log…

     “You won by my stupid claw.” Jackson said. “Congratulations Darla.”

      Darla smiled at Jackson...”I didn’t win easy. You gave it all you had, don’t be down in the dumps over it ok? Graduations next...boot camp’s over from here.”

      “This means you’re Company will lead the Division to graduation and you get to advance up the ranks...bet you’re pretty excited about that huh?” Jackson said as he followed her off the log.

      “Yeah.” Darla replied with a smirk...”And that idea of yours to get into our squad bay to steal the Goat Flag during Sports Day Jackson? Really? A laundry service detail? You’re imagination’s failing. I bet you’re two saps are hating life right now. Hope someone found them? I’d hate to know they spent a whole night covered in Hershey chocolates, feathers and wearing panties while tied to the old ship’s bell in the memorial park?”

       Darla thumped Jackson off an ear. “Thanks for the great exercise Jackson.” She said before some of her company mates picked her up and paraded her around the pool as their joyous celebration continued...”

       Jackson stood watching as Gilly came walking up. “You’re claw my foot. You threw the match….didn’t you?”

       “No...my claw got caught. Just like Dardanelle and Suffie got caught trying to steal Darla’s Goat Flag.” Jackson replied with a slight smile.

        “Why the hell did you send them after that? They’re going to be so ticked off at you when they come back, do you know how fricken hard it is to get soaked in Hershey’s out of Bunny tails? And being caught wearing panties? Oh yeah...they are gonna blanket party your butt and you can probably expect the rest of the Company to join in on your rump roasting. Everyone already thinks you threw it.” Gilly snorted.

       “Do I need to remind you that my father was a good teacher? If you’re going to pull off a good hustle? Sometimes a little sacrifice is required. From now until graduation? Darla and the rest of her company are going to be guarding that flag of theirs like hawks.” Jackson said with a smile. “The end result will actually be worth not being able to sit for a week….don’t you think?”

       Gilly followed Jackson as they walked to get into formation with the company. “I don’t know if I should call you a genius or absolutely fox crazy? You threw away the Sports Flag which already gave us lead company...”

        Jackson replied. “Which ups Darla’s ego, which makes her forget being careful which makes us getting color company easier. You’re talking to someone who is….after all….part fox.” Jackson replied. As expected….the company was disappointed, though not all were ready to pound Jackson into the pavement for losing except the two bunnies who look at him with revenge in their faces…

      “Setting us up wasn’t nice Wilde.” One of the rabbits named “Pickering” snorted. “You suck.”

       “I will clean both your cotton tails guys, I promise by tomorrow they’ll be their sweet and soft downy selves again...”
    
        “You won’t be “sweet and downy” after we’re done with you tonight.” The other bunny named “Toolie” snorted. “If those pictures that creepy Chief took of us get onto the network? You won’t be able to dig a warren deep enough to save your butt.”

         “Guys? He’s getting us the front of the ranks at graduation, first break for us to see our families, extended leave time….come on? It was worth the trouble.” Gilly said with a shrug.

          “You’re gonna join him in the same ditch there...”fur licker.” Pickering snapped.

October 12, 2039
6pm
Wilde House, Downtown Zootopia

       A knock on the door and Nick opened it to look down at Dawn Bellweather as she held a large casserole tray in her hoof hands...”Evening Nick.” She said with a pleasant smile.

      “Come on in...” Nick replied with a smile as he took the tray. “Honey! Dawn’s here.”

      Judy walked into the foyer and gave Dawn a hug...”Nice to see you could make it. You spend too much time at the office Dawn.”

      “Well….you know me Judy, as if I’ll ever change the things I love to do.” The lamb said as she followed Judy into the kitchen. “So how’s Jackie doing in basic?”

       “Almost done.” Judy replied. “He’s doing great.”

        “You two must be proud. I would be.” Dawn said as she sat on the couch in the living room and Nick placed a bowl of greens and vegetables on the coffee table for her. “Thank you for asking me to write some of the scripts for the department PSA’s Nick. Why did you chose me?”

        “Why not?” Nick replied. “You’re a prolific writer to start with, you always find time for it and you’re creative as a whip. I think it has something to do with that puffy soft tuft of yours too….”

        Nick reached his paw out like he was going to touch dawn’s downy tuft. “ That is such a weakness for me. I beg your forgiveness.”

       “Nick, you are just adorable.” Dawn said as she leaned forwards to let Nick have a little fun with her tuft…

       “Stop the adultery with my husband Dawn?” Judie snickered as she brought in a tray of drinks. “Made you a “Sheep-a-zore Sling” like you told me too. Hope I got it right?”

       Dawn took a sip….”Absolutely perfect. Thank you.” Dawn replied as she sipped on her drink. “Oh...announcement? I have a room mate now and she is so the lamb?”

      “Why didn’t you invite her?” Nick asked. “What did you tell her Dawn? Did you tell her about the “big mean old fox?” Or what?”

       “No silly.” Dawn replied. “She works nights at “Goldmans and Flaxseed” accounting. I met her on one of my rare night outs in town at the “Hoof n Haw” on Walnut Street and it was like...oh so bang-ga-roo if you put that into your heads? I’d advise you not too.”

       Dawn changed the subject...”So I made us a three way casserole...”

       “Bunny, Lamb and fox….that’s an interesting kink?” Nick snickered, which got smacks from Dawn and Judy…

       “Dawn? He’s been crazy horny ever since I let him spend his all day treatments at the Mystic Spring.” Judy said smiling. “I cone home one day? He’s dressed like a pet slave...”

       “Judy! That’s private!” Nick yelped.

       “Oooooo….” Dawn replied with an evil look on her face. “Did you spank that fluffy butt?”

       “Ok…..ok…...let’s get off the dirty talk and eat.” Nick said, trying to avoid further humiliation.

        “He couldn’t sit the day after….trust me.” Judy said snickering. “But? He made me this killer hot bath...Dawn? Dawn, you have to try it, I swear Nick is such an artist at it!”

         Dawn whipped out a small note book...”Details?”

         “If I can prevent myself from dying of a stroke?” Nick said as he covered his eyes. “You better check what I tell you Dawn? I might give you the recipe for brazed lamb chop.”

9am
Zootopian Fleet Naval Hospital
Tundra Town
October 13, 2039

        Jamie Rook felt better….at least he was eating again like a Polar Bear, downing the whole big salmon in few gulps and finishing the breakfast fair served to him in time for Admiral Don Karnage to come into the room with a pair of rams and a wolf dressed in Marine Corps greens…

       “Good morning Mister Rook.” Don Karnage said as he bade salutation with his low waving paw. May I present Miss Carthage (Ram) who represents the Mayor. Mister Grazier (Ram) who is from our commercial vessel commission. Master Sargent Branch (female Wolf) Who is from Naval Intelligence. I hope this is not too early for you?”

        Jamie shook his head. “No...I’m ready to talk.” He said.

        Don Karnage took a seat on a sofa...”We won’t go too much into your ordeal at this time Jamie but everything you can answer for us will be of great value. I want to say first that you will not be held responsible. No charges will be put on you so...rest easy with that.”

       Mister Grazer asked...”Mister Rook? You were the first mate on the Pacesetter. Can you remember where you were when the incident with the Kzinti happened?”

     Jamie thought...”We were ten miles West of the demarcation line in the “Durry Chaps” which is our choice spot for the best yields of wild fish. The GPS confirmed that. I know we were there.”

          Mister Grazer asked….”And who was on the Pacesetter?”

      “Captain Barkcover (Polar Bear) Myself. Howie, Woodie and Mike (sea lions) Our deck mate Chunky (Polar Bear) Sammy, Chucky and Albert (Otters) and Richie, Orlando and Ziggy (Foxes)”

        “And what exactly happened when the Kzinti pounced you? How many ships?” Mister Grazer asked.

       “One ship. I had it on the radar at fifteen miles and around ten by the time I put my spy glass on her. I warned Captain Barkcover and we turned about and put on our best speed….23 knots. Their ship I’d say was doing flank at around 34 knots.”

       Master Sargent Branch asked….”They pursued you?”

       “Yes miss….” Jamie replied. At about five miles from us they opened fire. We took three close rounds and then one smacked us in the stern and took out the engine. Chucky and Ziggy were killed.”

       Master Sargent Branch passed a pad of paper to Jamie...”Try to sketch as much as you can the shape of the Kzinti ship? What you remember as far as what she may have had for weapons.”

       Jamie went to work with a pencil as the questions continued….

       “What were your actions when they came upon you?”  Mister Grazer asked.

       “The Captain told us not to say anything or do anything stupid but our three harbor seals made a run for it. They caught Woodie and shot him to pieces in the water but Howie and Mike got away. Obviously that made them angry because they sounded pissed off….what I could understand listening to them talk. We were boarded by some of them.”

    Miss Carthage asked….”What did you see? What do they look like?”

    “They’re big, I can tell you that. All that we could see on the deck of their ship were wearing black hoods so you couldn’t see heads or faces but they were big. I stand seven feet on my legs and they’re at least nine or ten feet. They all wore the same kind of uniform...light sand color with caps that had these flaps in the back. The caps had red stars on them and the collars of the uniforms had things on them. There’s an obvious difference between the officers and the regular Sailors. The officers had these swords and pistols as weapons while the Sailors had these rifles with huge bayonets at the end.” Jamie said as he kept drawing. “I’ll draw what I can of the weapons and the uniforms.”

     “They boarded you and then what?” Master Sargent Branch asked.

     “I guess they wanted to make their point very clear….they snatched Orlando, sat him down and chopped his tail off with one of their swords. They then flipped him over, chopped off his head and threw what was left into the water. One of them stuffed his tail into his pocket like a sick fricken trophy.” Jamie said with a grimace...”They beat the snit out of all of us...shot Captain Barkcover in the head and threw hoods over the rest of us and dragged us off the boat onto their ship.”

      Admiral Don Karnage asked...”How long were you at sea from that point?”

      “I dunno….” Jamie replied. “We were separated from each other and kept there until they dragged us off.”

Master Sargent Branch asked….”Did you understand anything they said? You heard them talk?”

“It’s not our language. It’s not any language I’ve ever heard. I was able to sort of figure out certain words because they used them constantly...” Jamie replied.

“Speak some if you can remember?” Master Sargent Branch asked.

Jamie thought….”Well?…..”Hi-yak-koo” means to hurry up. “Bah-Kah” is some sort of insult. “Cho-Toe” means to wait or stop. With more time I should be able to remember more. But there were those that spoke our language really well.”

Miss Carthage asked...”Can you elaborate on that?”

“Their females spoke it really well.” Jamie replied. “I never got to see their faces or their heads but you knew they were females because of the obvious...the voices and…..excuse me….their tits. One I remember? I called her “screech” because she repeated the same crap over and over again….”Spy bastard confess, spies should be executed, confess you dirty spy bastard, confess or you will all die, we will enjoy cooking all of you for our tables.” Jamie snarled. “The bitch seemed to take pleasure in inflicting beatings with pipes. I guess they wanted us to confess to being spies for their public consumption.”

Don Karnage waved a paw...”I think we will stop here.”

Jamie shook his head….”No...I can continue. I think it’s important you know what they did to us...how fricken sick these bastards are.” Jamie took a moment to breath...”What they did to Sammy and Albert...even as we said we would confess to spying?….” Jamie broke down and sobbed….

Don Karnage shook his head...”We will stop here. You’ve given us enough for now Jamie, no need to torture yourself.”

4pm
Executive Residence of the Mayor
Downtown Zootopia
October 13, 2039

      Cesar’s son Kimba came running into the study and bounced off his father’s large frame...”Dad?! You promised you’d goal for me so I could practice remember?!” The lion cub said as he bounced his soccer ball off his knee.

      “Hello Kimba.” Admiral Don Karnage said with a wave.

      “Oh….So I get sat on my butt again huh?” The precocious nine year old said with a sigh. Suddenly his younger sister “Kiddy” came into the study and gave Kimba a smack off the back of the head!

      “You never ask me to play with you!” She snapped.

      “Because you’re always busy texting stupid girl stuff!” Kimba snapped back.

      Cesar thumped Kimba’s ear….”Both of you go outside? Kimba? Let your sister play goal for you until I am done here. This is very important?”

      “Turtle wax is more important than me it seems.” Kimba replied as he walked away. “Come on Kiddy...maybe after I give you a bloody nose, Dad might pay some attention to us.”

      “KIMBA!” Cesar snapped and snarled which made the lion cub drop his soccer ball and shake….

      “Sigh…..” Cesar took a deep breath. “I will be out there in a moment. Try to have some patience for once?”

        Cesar waited till his cubs left the study before he sat back down behind his desk, read more of the report and sat rubbing his forehead….

        “Barbarians….” He said wincing…..”un-mammal’d barbarians.”

        “That is about the level of the report.” Don Karnage said frowning. “Those are the sickening things they would do to our citizens. We’re not dealing with civilized mammals Mister Mayor….we are dealing with honest predators who use their teeth as they were intended. They don’t care for civilized law, they don’t care about our evolved way of life. What they did to those poor otters, how they slaughtered without any pity our citizens is exactly what they intend for the rest of us if we allow them to keep pressing us in increments back towards our own shores.”

       Don Karnage stood up...”You tasked the Navy to take whatever steps were required to defend our rights and you also commanded that we make military action the last, the very last resource. I understand this clearly. But I will not sit idle while these…..these predatory animals….capture, torture and brutally murder our citizens. There must be punishment for actions Mister Mayor.”

      Cesar sat back...”What’s your recommendation?”

       Don Karnage leaned forwards in his seat...”No more allowing our fishing ships to go to sea by themselves. From now on we set firm sailing directives, locations and schedules so we can cover them with one or two of our destroyers or three of our torpedo armed underwater drones. We won’t seek a conflict….but if the Kzinti press their luck? If they fire on us? We will send one of their ships to hell.”

       Cesar thought for a moment then replied. “I will brief the City Counsel but I’ll tell you their sure answer….you will not hit their ships unless absolutely necessary. Conflict WILL BE avoided at all costs.”

        Don Karnage replied with a gesture...”Mister Mayor...I…?”

       “Admiral?” Cesar replied. “Will you have a hard time following orders?”

       “No Sir.” Don Karnage replied. “Not at all. I just wonder how long our citizens will endure once the news of these crimes spread. We can’t keep this from the population, they deserve to know.” 

       Cesar paused to think again...”Thank you for this report and relay my feelings to Mister Rook. I will dispense with any pause and authorize you to carry out your plans concerning our fishing fleet. But once again? Under NO circumstances are you to order military action unless I am apprised first and foremost. Is that clear Admiral?”

      “Yes Sir...” Don Karnage replied. 

9am
Recruit Training Command
Commanding Officer’s review prior to Graduation Day.
October 23, 2039

      The five companies were arrayed on the concrete parade ground in their dress blue uniforms with all of the flags earned during training. Company 260, though it didn’t have all the flags, had the most to be the first company in the coming parade with her sister company 259 right behind her…

     The Commanding Officer of the training base, Captain John Durm (bull elephant) stopped before Darla Delaware and her Company to watch its’ four mammal color guard present their colors. He then inspected Darla and her Assistant while making positive remarks about the both of them…

    “Well done Seaman Delaware.” Durm remarked. “Company 260! Present your flags!”

     The Sailors holding the company trophy flags snapped them out for the Captain to review one by one until….

     “Seaman Delaware! Front and center!” Durm snapped. 

     Darla marched up and stood at attention as the Captain gripped the Goat flag. “I can not believe this….did you even bother to take the time Sailor to make sure you were properly prepared for this inspection?”

     “Sir?” Darla questioned.

      “This flag Sailor? Take a good look at it.” Durm commanded. Darla’s mouth almost hit the concrete when she got her first real good look at what should have been the Goat Flag…

       The character had ram horns alright….but it was no Goat. It was Emperor Kusco...a lama with a contorted dumb comical look on his face!

       “You should be fortunate Seaman Delaware that losing the Goat Flag is not a seriously punishable offense. You will not lose your RPOC position over this but depending on who took it from you? You might lose lead company status at graduation.” Durm looked at the other companies’….

       “THE COMPANY WITH THE GOAT FLAG! STEP FORWARDS!” Durm commanded. From the flag line of 259...Jackson stepped out and snapped the real Goat Flag into the wind….

        Durm raised his big hand….”Company 260 has been demoted from lead company at graduation! The honor now goes to Company 259! Congratulations Sailors on your audacious seizure of the Goat Flag!”

       Darla frowned and started to stomp away from her company and towards Jackson!

       “Oh snit!” Gilly said as he broke ranks to stand behind Manny. “Manny! She’s upset as a hornet!….she’s coming over here to punch Jackson out!”

       Manny stepped away from his Company and blocked Darla as she stomped up…

      “Seaman Delaware? Don’t do it...Don’t lose out to your anger….” Manny begged.

      Darla snarled at him. “Step aside Manny or I’ll forget I’m a female and bite the snit out of you.”

      “Delaware…..please…..” Manny begged again.

      “Manny?” Darla snapped back. “Get…...out…...of my damn way?”

      Manny stepped aside and watched as the angry female otter marched up to Jackson and pressed her snoot to his face…

      “You?…..you sneaky, deceiving, flea ridden, mangy son of a fox...” Darla snarled.

      Jackson replied. “You got it all right...amazing. I am after all? Fifty percent fox.”

      Darla smiled….”You won this one Jackie...”

      “Care to reclaim your honor on the log?” Jackson snickered. “Best two out of three?”

      Darla put her paw forwards...”Congratulations Jackson….for now. But you will so owe me after boot camp I promise you.”

     “I’ll be looking forwards to being abused by you.” Jackie giggled.

     Darla took a step back, gave Jackson a crisp salute, turned about smartly and marched back to her company where she popped tall before Captain Durm. “Sir? I concede to a better Sailor. Seaman Wilde captured the Goat flag fair and square. By your leave Sir?”

      “Outstanding example of good form Seaman Delaware. Carry on.” Durm replied with a salute…

6pm….

      Anubis marched to the center of the bay and boomed out. “TWO FIVE NINE! AH-TEN-HUT!”

      The Company snapped to attention on the line….

      “Tonight marks our final time together….shipmates. And you all indeed are now my shipmates and I am honored to call you such. There is one final formality prior to graduation which must be tendered before all. There is the tradition of the top two graduates from the division who lead the entire division into the honor hall. I am very proud to say that we have two leading Sailors who were in the running for this honor because of their academic scores, conduct and spirit for the corps...”

     “Seaman Turk! Seaman Wilde! Step out!” Anubis commanded. Jackson and Turk stepped from their lines…

      Both of these Seamen scored 99.8 on their academics yet only one can be chosen to join Company 260’s leading Seaman...Seaman Delaware as her Assistant Division Commander. Seaman Wilde….Step back in line!”

      Jackson backed up as Anubis walked in front of Turk. “Seaman Turk Tuns completed recruit training with zero demerits, zero gigs and many noted outstanding achievements. Therefore...I am removing your status as Company “Ay-R-Poc” and affixing your new status as Division Executive Commander. With this achievement Seaman Turk, you are now bestowed the rank of Seaman First Class with all the rights, privileges and pay there of and the opportunity to take the 3rd class petty officer’s test on your first eligibility. I salute you.”

     Anubis saluted Turk then turned to Jackson. “Seaman Wilde….step out.”

     Jackson stepped forwards as Anubis walked up to him. “Seaman Wilde, with Seaman Turk elevated in rank, the silver Ay-R-Poc’s rope falls to you...”

    Manny suddenly raised his paw. “Company Commander Anubis? If I may Sir?”

     Manny stepped forwards and walked up to Anubis. “The silver rope is mine Sir. I resign as RPOC. Jackson more than deserves my place. He’s the one who really pulled us all through Sir.”

     Jackson gestured to decline the offer but Manny shook his head...”You say no and everyone will blanket party you tonight. Stop being so humble Jackson?”

      Manny affixed the gold rope to Jackson’s uniform. “Besides...without it? You’d look out of place standing next to your parents so don’t argue with me? You earned it from the beginning and you never gave up acting like you still had it. So this time? Don’t do something stupid to lose it?”

       Manny stepped back and saluted as the company cheered and clapped then broke into singing the anthem of the Zootopian Navy. (Sung to the Regimental song of the 54th Massachusetts Civil War Infantry Regiment “ In Hoc Sig No Vences”)

“Fife and Drum flourish”

Oh Raise up the colors….and sound the anchors away.
Set the watches to their duties...act swift without delay.
We sail for the herd...We sail for the herd.
For our dear Zootopia…we go upon the sea.

Chorus

Oh bless our dear old land….United and forever free.
We’ll fight to defend it…... as our Fathers did upon the sea.
The gallant Mammal Navy…..will make the enemy dance.
They’ll never harm the herd…...They’ll never get the chance.

“Rolling Drums”

Sound the call to quarters….Every mammal to their guns.
Predators and prey...we shall all act as one.
Train the cannons true...score on every round.
Till on the sea floor….only the enemy can be found.

Chorus

Oh bless our dear old land….United and forever free.
We’ll fight to defend it…... as our Fathers did so brave,
The gallant Mammal Navy…..will make the enemy dance.
They’ll never harm the herd…...They’ll never get the chance.

“Rolling Drums”

Oh from rodent to Elephant….Bless us every daughter and son.
Brothers and sisters of Zootopia..we shall all act as one.
Train the cannons true...score on every round.
Till on the sea floor….only the enemy can be found.

Chorus

Oh bless our dear old land….United and forever free.
We’ll fight to defend it…... as our Fathers did so brave,
The gallant Mammal Navy…..will make the enemy dance.
They’ll never harm the herd…...They’ll never get the chance.

   Two five nine sang the song loud enough for other companies in the barracks building to hear it and soon the whole building shook with the stomps, grunts, growls and bleats of mammals in unison. From the smallest mouse to the long tusks of elephants the old stanzas boomed out and not a few from wet eyes dripping tears of pride and comradeship. The refrain went on for a long hour and ended with company visiting company, paws embracing hoofs, Foxes hugging bunnies and lions saluting lambs. Until the last official sound of taps, the 13th Division was all in joyous celebration.
Noon
Recruit Training Command
Graduation Day.
October 24, 2039

       The reviewing stands were full of families, among them was Judy and Nick dressed in their full dress police uniforms with ribbons and golden shoulder ropes.  Behind and around them were some of Judy’s extended family from the Burroughs, her parents Bonie and Stewart, Gidion Gray and his wife, Dawn Bellweather and her girl friend Jamie and Tall Pauley who represented Mister Big since Jackson was his god son. The sound of a loud band coming into the large drill hall signaled the start of the graduation and all stood on their feet waving small flags and cheering wildly as the hymn of the Navy boomed and shook the building around them.

         Behind the band were the Recruiting Division Commanders, Turk Tuns and Darla Delaware who drew their swords from their shoulders, lowered their points to the floor and snapped their heads right to honor the line of dignitaries and officers of the line including Mayor Cesar Leo who brought his large right paw to his chest and offered a bow of respect as they passed…

       Behind them came Company 259 with Manny and Jackson at the head. Jackson snapped his sword to the floor and screamed out “PRESENT ARMS! EYES RIGHT!” and every Mammal from the smallest to the tallest snapped rifles from their shoulders and held them out before them with the lights of the hall and hundreds of camera flashes bouncing off the long polished bayonets affixed to the barrels. 

       For a moment...The eyes of mother and son met as Jackson watched Judy snap to attention and render a crisp salute in her pressed uniform. His father, reserved as usual, offered his own typical gesture of nodding and showing a smiling and pleased approval yet touched his chest trying not to break into sobbing. In his son was the memory of another time...a mirror, a uniform and the love of a mother for her own proud son. As he looked deep into his mother’s face….Jackson saw both the intense pride of a parent in her son and the apprehension that was now common even among the brightest tooth and the widest cheering maw in the stands. These were all volunteers marching into the great hall...varied reasons carried them away from home and kin. Perhaps the mouse who said...”So what if I’m small. I’m needed!” or the young bunny inspired by the police chief who said so often...”You can do it...let no one tell you no.” Or the tiger escaping a broken home or the fox who just wanted to do something different with her life…

      They all came separated, now they were leaving with a common thought for a common purpose. There was a threat in the air, there was a fear among the herd and now these pounding paws, feet and hooves were all stepping up to stand against it and if need be….to die fighting it. Here was the reason for some who were weeping and trying hard not to show it. For clenched paws and tightened teeth among the crowd watching the martial parade as it thunder by them. As company after company pounded by...each tusk, each tooth, each tail and each snoot told the cost that might be paid and surely in the crowd this sunny noon day in Zootopia; many were thinking the cost would be too dear to bear at any price. But they weren’t the ones’ on the floor now showing their willingness to pay the expenses.

      So it was that as the companies were forming across the floor...Mayor Cesar Leo took time to turn around and reach out to the closest families around him. He reached for Judy’s paw and held it while warmly rubbing his other paw against Nick’s cheek...”You have a wonderful son...be proud of him.” Cesar said softly. Then he moved to give other families his attention before returning to his seat to await his turn to speak to the graduating Sailors on the floor below…

       Different speakers made their remarks for about 20 minutes….then Cesar approached the podium and cleared his throat….

       “I try not to make these remarks with a hundred percent seriousness since usually by the time I’m done? we have to find the nearest drug store to buy up all the smelling salts to wake up the zombies. “

(Laughter)

       “I recently attended a meeting of our defense chiefs and all of them bickered with each other over who had the bravest mammals. The army Chief, the Chief of Drones and the Marine Corps Commandant all said they had the bravest troops who if they ordered them to? They would all follow orders to the end. I was surprise that I asked these same Chiefs to go get me donuts and they didn’t come back after they left.

(Laughter)

      “Admiral Don Karnage here recently took the other Chiefs to go see the Destroyer Zootopia where high on the main radar mast a Sailor was up there busily chipping paint. The admiral dispatched a messenger to tell this Sailor an order to jump from the radar mast to the pier below and that the order came from the Chief of the Fleet himself. A few minutes later, the messenger came back with a note in his hands. The note read as follows….”

       “I don’t know who you think your are Sir but admiral or not, we just dumped off some fresh sewage after our long patrol. Why don’t you be the typical role model of a horses rump and go wallow in it?”

(Laughter)

       “To which Admiral Don Karnage proudly said to the other service chiefs? Let’s see your Lemmings do that? That….is one brave son of a birch.”

(Laughter)

        “Gentle Mammals….fellow citizens….we are all gathered here today to bestow honors and pride in the achievements of these citizens standing before us. I see not just individuals….Rhinos, foxes, wolves, mice or bunnies in these ranks, I see the quilt of our beloved country bound by the common threads that bind the small and the large, the swift and the slow, the powerful and the sure footed. All of you before us brought your hearts, your skills, your beliefs and your determination to adapt, to achieve, to surmount and excel though two months of intense training to take what started different and make it one, single professional example of the best Zootopia offers. Only a nation of mammals devoted to the ideals of freedom...respect…. Universal love…..and peace can put forth such examples as you. From rodent to elephant today…you are brothers and sisters in arms forever bonded in Navy blue and gold.”

        “I and those around me here today are proud of every one of you. Though you have all taken this great leap into adulthood, I am in no doubt sure that in the eyes of many today….the kit, the cub, the kitten, the fawn and the foal you were only yesterday still sparkles in the eyes of a mother or father in these stands. It is the reminder ever present in my mind which motivates me daily, with every marrow in my bones, to ensure that what you have started here...will end with your return home in peace to a country in peace. All of your are precious to our country so to you our Sailors I oath this…..we will not now nor ever desire war but should war be forced upon us? You will have everything you require to bring that war to a swift and decisive conclusion. I extol all of you as I extol all our Sailors and our Marines to present to friend and foe alike the utmost professionalism and the most unquestioned conduct that is above and beyond reproach, that such a display will deter our potential adversaries from even the lightest whisp of war in their minds. As old Albert Mayhoof was so fond of saying….”What the eye sees is the first indication of a weakness to be exploited. Guard the eyes and the nation will remain guarded in peace.”

       “Go forth citizens, go forth Sailors. Take every opportunity given, build upon your education, pick each other up when you fall, serve with pride, do well….come home and never forget what you have all done this day….for yourselves….for your family….for your species….for your country. Go forth and may blessed providence and the love of your nation go with you. We bid you fair winds….following seas….and good luck.”

       The Navy Hymn boomed out again as Cesar Leo snapped to attention and rendered a salute. All around and behind him, the gathered mammals rose to their feet and cheered and clapped as the ceremony ended and the Companies again formed to the march and made one rounded circuit around the hall before marching out through the arch way at the end of the hall over which an oil painting of the father of Zootopia’s fleet, “Albert Mayhoof” looked down upon the fresh blue “cracker jacks” that thundered out below…

2pm
The grand parade field

      “MOM!” Jackson yelled out as he dismissed the company, turned and all but crashed into his mother and knocked her hat off as he picked her up off her feet and snuggled on her….

     “JACKIE!?” Judy yelped somewhat embarrassed. Jackson put her back on her feet and moved to hug his father but Nick raised a paw of restraint…

     “No...a father addresses his adult son in only one way...” Nick put out his hand and took Jackson’s paw...”Well done….Mister Wilde.”

     Jackson shook his father’s paw then smirked. “Oh fluck this snit.” He pulled Nick into his arms and snuggled him as other family and friends came close to pat his back or offer congratulations…

     Seeing Anubis making rounds close by with other families, Jackson pulled Judy with him….”Sir!” Jackson called out. Anubis turned around and frowned…

     “Not five minutes and you’re screwing up already Wilde?” Anubis snorted. “I’m a Chief Wilde…..see the anchors? Chief Anubis you slug? I work for a living.”

        Jackson gestured...”Mom? This is Chief Anubis, my Company Commander.”

        Judy snickered. “Oh? So he’s the one you tried to sock in the snoot?”

        “Chief Wilde.” Anubis said with his hand out. “He’s quite a young mammal. And don’t worry...I try to average three or four fist fights per company.” Anubis said as he rested his paw on Jackson’s shoulder. “Your son was a big part of his company’s good performance...I see where he got the genes. You were the first bunny through the police academy? You survived Mad Maddy? That took a lot.”

        Judy smiled back...”Persistence and stubbornness is a family trait. We always taught Jackson to take kicks and get back up.”

        Anubis waved a paw finger. “Be sure you carry all of it into the fleet Wilde. You’re going to find fleet life a lot different from boot camp so don’t lose that trait of quick adaptability. I want to see you with eagle and hash marks within the next year or two.”

       “Yes Chief.” Jackson said as he gave Anubis a salute. “I want to thank you Sir for being the hard rump that you were to us. I know you were a pain for the right reasons.”

        As Jackson and Judy talked to Anubis, Tall Pauley stood aside waiting for a chance to speak...”Judy? Can I speak with your son for a moment?”

        “Of course.” Judy replied as she walked back to family and friends while Pauley stood with Jackson…

        “You look splendid.” Pauley said as he put his big paw out. “Your god father is pleased at how you’ve turned out.”

        Jackie shook the big Polar bears paw...”How is he?”

        “He would like you to come to the house to see him when you’re on leave before you go to your school. You understand that he’s very old and has outlived all of his generation of Shrews by years. It would mean so much to him too see you in your uniform...one last time.” Pauley said.

         “Tell him I will come soon.” Jackson said with a bow of respect. He then walked over to where the Hopps family and friends sat at picnic tables and went to sit down until some one snatched him up under his arms and turned him around to face a growling set of teeth in his face….

         “YUKI!” Jackson yelped as he wrapped his arms around the large neck of the eight foot wolf dog in a Fleet Marine dress uniform. Yuki Bond had graduated his basic two days before Jackson and made it just in time to watch Jackson march out of the hall….

        “Congratulations “Yop Yop”...” Yuki said as he placed Jackson back on the ground and rendered a salute.

         “Wow….” Gideon Gray said as he walked around Yuki. “I have never thought a wolf could grow so big.”

         “Yuki smiled back. “I never thought a fox could grow so big in two directions.”

         Gideon laughed and gave Yuki a playful punch in the gut...”How you doin there devil dog?”

         “Good Sir.” Yuki replied. “I graduated from basic a few days ago.”

         “You in the infantry Yook?” Jackson asked.

          “Nope. I volunteered for the new Marine drone program. They’re not going to take an easy bullet sponge my size into the infantry. I’m going to school to get qualified to fly and maintain the Corps incoming Dragon Fly ground support drone. Where you going after boot Jackie?”

         “I have two weeks of leave.” Jackson replied. “Then I’m going to Electronic / Electrical maintenance school.”

        “What?” Yuki snorted. “I thought you were going to pursue some adventure? You know? Boat driver? Ordie? Deck gunner? Special Warfare?”

         Jackson shrugged. “I want to have something I can take with me if I decide to get out after my four years are up. “Tron chasers” make good money.”

         Nick interrupted the happy conversation. If you will excuse me Yuki? I have to snag Jackson to myself for a little bit. Nick gestured his son to walk with him. “Since you’ve graduated now...the base will allow you to relax a little….remember when you were about this high?” Nick said as he held his paw low to his side...

Nick pulled out his cell phone and paw finger whipped up a song from his music store...

Do you recall, not long ago... We would walk on the sidewalk...Innocent, remember?...All we did was care for each other ...But the night was warm... We were bold and young...All around the wind blows….We would only hold on to let go Blow a kiss, fire a gun...We need someone to lean on….Blow a kiss, fire a gun …All we need is somebody to lean on...Blow a kiss, fire a gun We need someone to lean on…

Nick started to “bop” and “bob” to the music….”Come on Jackie! Join your old Dad for a little old time’s sake? Lemme see if my toddler can still dance?”

Jackie giggled. “Your back can’t take this dad.”

Nick snorted. “Don’t insult me son? Let’s show all these stale punks how Wildes’ pop!”

Nick strutted and kicked his feet around to the beat and soon Jackie was following him with matched movements as they dance walked down the street towards a parking lot…

“Dad?!” Jackie said surprised. “You’re pop’in fresh!”

“Back’s never been better Son!” Nick said as he turned and twisted in lock step with his Son. “Just think?! If the Navy doesn’t work out? You and I could tour in tiger suits with Gazelle.”

Nick sang…..”Blow a kiss! Fire a gun!”

Jackie replied….”We need is some one to lean on!”

Nick sang…..”Blow a kiss! Fire a gun!”

Jackie replied….”All we need is some one to lean on!”

Nick sang…..”Blow a kiss! Fire a gun!”

Jackie replied….”We need is some one to lean on!”

Both of them stopped dancing in the parking lot and sounded together….

“Woe…..woe…….woobie…..doobie…..woe…...”

Nick patted Jackson on the shoulder...”You still got it!”

“Took me a little...I thought Anubis would see it and tear after us to kick the snit out of my rump.” Jackson said smiling. “You look so much better Dad.”

“I feel younger.” Nick replied. “But today is “your” day, not mine. I wanted to show you something...”

Nick led his son to a parked four door car and pointed to it. “Isn’t that nice?”

“Yeah….” Jackson said as he walked around the new car. “About time you two got a new car. You can’t keep driving that old used police cruiser.”

   “Well….we’re going to keep driving that snit box because this is your car.” Nick replied as he dangled the key fob in his paw.

    Jackson’s mouth almost fell off….”Mine?”

    “Our belated High School graduation gift which took a while so it became your boot camp present.” Nick said with a smile.

     “Dad? How much did you and Mom spend on this? I mean….I mean…..Dad?” Jackie sighed…

      “You needed a car.” Nick said pointing a paw finger. “Don’t open your trap Jackson? Here’s the key fob.”

     Jackson looked at his father, his lips beginning to quiver...”

       “Jackie? Son….please don’t?” Nick begged. But he couldn’t stop his son as he fell against him and sobbed. “It’s your money Dad….you need it more than I do. Please take the car back?”

       “Sorry Son.” Nick said as he petted Jackie’s head. “No refund policy. And don’t try to hock the money back? Trains are nice but you need your own set of wheels. Now stop crying and getting my fur all matted up will you?”

       Nick cupped his son’s cheeks in his paws….”Your grandmother would be so proud of you today...I…..am proud of you. Your mother is proud of you. The car is yours, we’re not taking it back so….shut up and stop crying? My son is a Sailor now and Sailors don’t cry in front of their parents.”

       Jackson sniffled a little….then shrugged his shoulders at Nick….”Aw…..fluck it. Yeah….Sailors do cry.”

       Jackson wrapped his arms around his father and let a good cry go forth…

       “Chance given.” Nick said as he snuggled his son.

       “What the hell does that mean Dad?!” Jackie yelped out.”

       “In time I’ll let you know….I promise. For now? This is your day son. I am so, so ,so,so happy to call you my son.”

       Jackson replied warmly. “And I love you too Dad….very much.”

end of Chapter 8