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

Chapter 20
The Growler part 5

Jackson and Darla’s apartment
12:47am
21 August 2040

     The party had finally petered out save the two foxes who remained in the apartment because they were too drunk to drive. Jackson set one in the lounger chair and tucked him in with a pillow and blanket. He then pulled the other one onto a blow up mattress Darla had prepared and tucked him as well. Then Jackson attended to his parents.

     Darla watched as Jackson carefully arranged his mother on his father’s chest and wrapped her with Nick’s arms and paws…

     “Mmm….” Nick stirred...he was still quite smashed from the mix drinks. “Mmm….(smile)….I love you son.”

      Jackson bent down and kissed his dad’s nose...”And I love you.” Jackson said softly as he kissed Judy on her head then tucked his parents in a comforter….” Sleep as long as you want tomorrow Dad….ok?”

     Jackson backed up and just stood quietly looking at his parents till Darla took a paw... 

     “You know Dar?” Jackson asked. “If we do end up getting married? I hope we’re like that twenty or so years from now.”

      “They’re just great.” Darla said softly.

      “You never realize how much they love each other till you see what something bad can do.” Jackson said. “They were really messed up in that cruiser accident. My mom was busted up three ways to Sunday yet she kept defying the doctors and practically dragged herself off her bed to lay with my father when he was in a coma. I don’t know if my mother could live without him.”

      Darla pulled on Jackson’s arm. “Come to bed already. We got tomorrow off so we should sleep in late.”

      “Yeah….” Jackson replied as he nodded and turned the lights in the living room off.

ZPD water enforcement Squadron aka SEA KNIGHTS
patrol craft Sea Knight 13
12:47am
21 August 2040
five miles west off Sahara Square

      The sound of Critter Clearwater Revival bounced around the hull of the speeding patrol boat and the darkness of the water around it as PC-13 skippered by a black panther named “Rodney Davis” cruised up and down the coast of Sahara doing boat checks and “on call” responses.

     The crew consisted of Davis, the boat master. His engineer, a ram named “Gustav”. The bow gun handler, Phisher the wolf who was fighting a bad cold. Strusel the Fox. Officer Brent Mercadi the Polar Bear and two harbor seal cops named Cashy and Brittney who were constantly nipping at each other because… well….Brittney was single, Cashy was single and Brittney was giving off one powerful smell of pheromone that had poor Cashy hard as a rock…

       “You do that again Cashy and I’ll fluck you up, I swear!” Brittney snapped as she bore her teeth at her partner.

       “Damn it girl! Don’t blame me?!” Cashy replied. I can’t help it that you’re flashing signals like a forest fire at me!”

        Brent stomped up to the feuding seals. “Both of you cut the snit before you get me ticked off. And Britty? If it’s your time? Why didn’t you let us know?”

       The female seal snapped back. “Oh? So because it’s “my time” you want to throw me on some desk job huh? Typical mentality of a polar bear.”

       “I’m only thinking of the efficiency of the crew Brittney.” Brent said waving his paws.

       The female seal flipped one of her flippers around….”Look Brent. Cashy is “A” and I am “B”. We didn’t invite you Mister “C” so….leave.”

      “Hey! He was only showing concern Brittney?” Cashy tried to say.

      Brittney closed her gaze on Cashy’s eyes. “You can go fluck yourself. You so much as brush your stupid fluke tail on me and my teeth will mangle your nose so shut the fluck up and bite me Cashy!”

      Strusel stood cocking his head as Brent walked past him. “Her hormones are like level 10 Stru. I’d stay clear.”

      Brittney snorted at Strudel. “What’s your problem there feather duster tail? Find something to do there fox!”

      Strusel shrugged his shoulders and joined Phisher on the bow. “Slow night tonight huh?” The fox said as he leaned against the gun lintel. “You feeling any better?”

     “A little bit.” Phisher replied. “I took some “Emergent-c” and chewed aspirin root before we left the base and it’s doing some good. I guess I’m more tired than sick since I haven’t slept in like ever.”

      Strusel scratched Phisher on his head again with those sharp fox claws and the wolf once again warmly smiled...”Stru? You are just the best friend for lousy moments.”

     “Smy yob.” Strusel replied.

     Inside the control cabin...Davis heard the beep call of the radio and snatched the mic off the panel...”Knight 13.” He spoke.

     “13….this is H.Q. We just got an alert from the “Laura-lal 5” patrol drone of an unregistered craft about ten miles from your current position. We’re sending you nav data on the link. Craft is about 100 feet long, no wake power present, no lights, seems adrift.”

      Davis flipped “the horn” announcer switch….”Alright everyone. We have a drifter about ten miles away. Advancing to full throttle to follow the nav link to the target. Stru? Brent? I want you guys in body armor with rifles. Phisher? Lock and load the sixty with non-lethal suppression amo. Cashy and Britty? Stop you’re love squabble back there and keep your heads in the game.”

    Brittney yelled back….”Stay out of this Captain!”

    “Now Brittney?” Davis replied. “Don’t make me muzzle you?”

    “Captain? Don’t make me turn you into a female?!” The bitchy female harbor seal snapped.

     Davis’s engineer smiled. “You know when she’s not in that time? She really is delightful to work with.”

     “Well right now I don’t need “delightful”...I need “attentive”.

     As Knight 13 kicked and bucked after reaching full speed. Brent and Strusel stood in the back of the control cabin putting on their body armor and drawing their M-1 carbine rifles from the weapons rack…

    “Standard thing right?” Strusel asked Brent. “Me first in?”

      “You’re the fastest.” Brent replied. “Though if she’s been abandoned? I wouldn’t be too worried about any confrontation.”

       The Police swift boat covered the ten miles quickly and soon was slowing down as Davis flipped on the exterior flood lamps...”Ok...everyone get set. Fish? Lock and load.”

       Phisher cycled the charging handle of his M-60 Machine gun and brought the weapon into battery...”Loaded, non-lethal engagement rounds! Bow gun ready!”

       “Cashy? Britty? In the water.” Davis called out and the harbor seals jumped off the back of the patrol boat and into the water to circle around the derelict boat as Brent hoisted Strusel onto a shoulder…

      “Ready buddy?” The bog polar bear asked as he steadied the fox. “I’m going to throw you over the top rail.”

      Strusel locked the charging bolt of his carbine. “I’ll go for the pilot house first? You sweep the main deck and then I’ll jump below. Good plan?”

     “Fantastic.” Brent replied. “We’re ready to go Cap.” Brent said into his shoulder mic.

      Inside the control cabin, Gustav was searching through the on-board computer records, the downloads from the Laura-lal patrol drone and gazed at the derelict boat…

     “No local registry. No confirmed identification with any country we know and what the hell is this wired “scratch” writing on the hull?”

     “I’ve never seen it before.” Davis said as he too studied the strange writings. “Looks like runes or something from one of my kid’s video games.” Davis said as he clicked his mic...”Keep your heads on a swivel…..this thing is a serious “un-mark” (Un-mark meaning….a total ghost ship)

     As Knight 13 drifted up to the side of the boat...Brent launched Strusel from his shoulder and the fox was off and throwing himself into the pilot house before Brent cleared the side rail…

      “Pilot house is cleared!” Strusel yelped. “Negative contact!”

      Brent moved over the main deck popping open door after door. “Clear room! Clear room! Ugh….stinks of piss, my nose is turning up like a rocket.”

     “One thing’s for sure? She’s old as fluck.” Streusel said as he rifled through the pilot house for anything useful and came across some papers with more of that strange writing on it. “I’m shoving some papers into an evidence bag Captain. They’re covered in this strange “scratch”.”

     “Affirm.” Davis replied. “Keep moving and I’ll send reports back to H.Q..”

     Strusel soon met up with Brent at an open door with a ladder well inside. The fox turned off his head lamp and dropped a night vision monocle over his eye…

    “I smell fresh food down there.” Strusel said as he tested the air with his sharp fox nose. “Can’t describe it but the scent is still pretty strong.”

    Brent rubbed Strusel’s back...”Don’t go too fast down there ok?”

    “Such a worry wart.” Strusel said as he put his carbine up into a firing position and quickly dropped down the stairs and into a lower passageway…

     “Captain? Stru just dropped down below.” Brent radioed.

     “Affirm.” Davis replied. “Cashy? Britty? What can you tell from the hull?”

     Brittany replied...”We’re scraping the hull now for samples for the FBI boys. The hull is rusted pretty good. Whoever owned this boat sure didn’t care about it.”
Brittany swam up to the propellers...”The props wouldn’t have been much use. They’re all bent and flucked up. Oh Captain? I’m sorry I’ve been such a blubbery bitchy cunt tonight.”

     “It’s alright Britty.” Davis replied. “I understand going into heat is a pile of stress….trust me, my wife is hyper satiated as all get out. Try getting dinner?”

     Britty watched as Cashy came floating up to her. “Look at this Brits? I’ve never seen this kind of clam around Zootopia?”

       “I know.” She replied. “Let’s get like a trash bag full of things. This whole boat makes me shake.”

       Brittany snorted...”Keep your yap shut Cashy?”

      “I wasn’t going to crack anything dumb, trust me.” Cashy replied as he went back to examining the hull.  
      Down below the main deck….Strusel is quickly moving through side rooms along the short passageway that leads to the engine compartment. The smell of the food teases his nostrils, it’s a mixture of sweetness combined with spice and when he pops into what must be the kitchen...the sight of what sits in the pans causes him to cock his head with questioning. 

     “What? The?” The fox says as he finds a spoon and looks at a lump of the strange aromatic food. He picks a single white piece off the lump and examines it as if a child seeing a new toy…

     He then drops the spoon to the deck when the realization hits...the food still has warmth to it. He crouches low to the deck, holding his M-1 Carbine in one paw while fumbling with his shoulder mic...”Brent? The food is still warm...”

     “Got that.” Brent replied. “You need me to come down?”

     Strusel moved to the opening of the small kitchen space. “No...I need all the room I can if I have to scramble out.” Strusel replied. “I’m moving towards the engine compartment….I think? I can’t tell.”

     The fox gingerly approached the engine compartment door and gave the door handle a look first, then a quick touch test….”Oh kay…..slowly opening the engine compartment door now….”

     Strusel pulled the door open, brought his carbine up and flipped on his mag lights attached to the end of the wood stock…..

     “Hmmmm…..nothing.” Strusel said as he stood slowly scanning his lights around the compartment. “Engine compartment secure.” He said into his mic….

      But as he turned around to go back down the passage way...he turned and walked into a wall of fur in the dimly lit passage way…

     “Damn it Brent!” Strusel snapped. “I said I didn’t need you down here dude!” The fox chirped as he fooled with his police helmet. “Brent? Don’t just stand there drooling dude? Give me some lights or something!”

      Strusel fumbled for his helmet lights and flipped the on switch and a pair of yellow and black eyes with huge white fangs below them stared right back at him!

     “FLUCK!” The fox screamed as he stumbled over his feet and fell backwards into the engine compartment! He landed on his back and felt his carbine fly from his paw and into the bilge pit around him!

      The towering vision before him was something out of hell! It was tiger or so he thought it was a tiger….it looked like a tiger but no tiger was this big! Was it nine feet? Ten feet? Twelve feet? To a fox it might as well be “Growl-Zilla”. It walked upon two long legs who’s foot paws ended with menacing long claws, it’s paws were huge with claws that looked like meat cutters! The face was gaunt… haunting… possessed. It had no normal ears like a tiger, it had ears that looked more like the spines of a fish’s dorsal sail…

      And at the moment...it had poor Strusel fumbling for his trank side arm! ‘MWAH! HALT! ZOOTOPIAN POLICE! STOP MOVING! STOP MOVING YOU MOTHER FLUCKER!” The terrified fox squealed as he tried to aim his weapon at the insane looking thing in front of him…

     “I SAID STAY RIGHT THERE MAMMAL! SON OF A BITCH STOP MOVING! Strusel screamed himself horse but the apparition of terror before him didn’t understand what he was trying to say….yet it understood it had a weapon drawn on it….

    “No shoot?” The over sized tiger said as it held its paws out. “No shoot?” It kept saying over and over as Brent came up from behind with his carbine aimed at its head….”HEY YOU?! FLUCK STICK! GET ON YOUR KNEES!”

    “About time you showed up!” Strusel yelped as he struggled to get to his feet and fell back against the boat engine….”WHERE WERE YOU BRENT! DAMN IT! I GOT PISS ALL OVER MY BUTT AND TAIL!”

    “Right now Stru? I don’t give a flying fluck!” Brent snapped. Whatever this tiger was? He towered over the burly polar bear at least three feet yet the tiger seemed for the moment to be docile….even pleadfull as it turned to gesture to Brent….”No shoot? No shoot? No shoot?” It said over and over again…

       “BRENT!” Strusel screamed. “TRANK THIS FREAK!”

       “Shut up, sit down and breath Stru?” Brent said as he moved as close to the strange Tiger as he dared…

”No shoot? No shoot? No shoot?” The tiger begged over and over again as Strusel got up the courage to duck and run around it and crashed into his Polar Bear partner….

      “Shut it up Brent!” Strusel yelped. “Shut it the fluck up?!” The fox begged as he cowarded against Brent’s legs...”Brent? Brent I’m scared snit-less...for the first time in my life I am scared snit-less dude!”

       “It has to get through me to get you Stru….relax….” Brent said as he slowly petted Strusel’s head and kept his carbine pointed at the tiger….”Hey? You?” Brent addressed the animal….”Sit down?!” He commanded.

”No shoot? No shoot? No shoot?” The tiger begged.

“No...no one will hurt you...I promise.” Brent said as he pointed to the deck. “Sit… down…..sit…..sit….”

    The tiger finally relented and slowly moved to sit on the floor and that’s when Brent realized how thin and emaciated the mammal was. Then all the stories Brent had ever heard in his life….smacked him all in head...all at once…

    “Oh…..my…...Gawd.” The Polar Bear said as he motioned Strusel towards the ladder way. “Go….slowly….and leave the boat Stru. I don’t think this guy’s in the mood for any fighting right now.”

     Brent reached for his mic...”Captain? This is Brent? I hope you’re sitting down for this?

Jackson and Darla’s apartment
2:45 am
Sahara Square

        Jackson shook his mother on the shoulder….”Mom? Mom? Wake up.” Jackson said over and over until Judy opened her eyes and moaned at him…

        “Jackie? What?” The hung over bunny asked.

        “Mom? “Prinky’s been trying to call your phone. I think it’s like super important?”

        Judy sat up on her husband’s chest before her son put her on the floor and held her upright….”I’ll….make some coffee ok?” He said as she shooshed him off…

       “Yeah…..go…..go do…..coffee….yeah.” Judy said a little annoyed, not at Jackson but at getting called on her day off. “Ugh….this is “why” we have a “Night shift supervisor” damn it.” She snorted out as she called the First Precinct.

       “Chief? We’ve been trying to call you for like an hour now.” Page Clawhauser’s voice sounded.

       “Mmmfff….what the hell Page? I’m off duty, my son’s home from his first cruise with the Navy and…...and why the hell are you at work?” Judy yelped.

       “Night Shift Super Manfred called in extra security Chief. I think you should sit down for this? Oh yeah...do you have ear buds for your phone? “Super Manny” doesn’t want anything to get out till he talks to you.”

       Judy popped her ear buds into her phone as Jackson brought her a cup of hot coffee...”Thank you Jackie.” She said smiling. “Ok Page? Now what’s so earth shaking that I have to use ear buds and sit down for?”

      After five minutes….Judy dropped the coffee cup onto the floor. “Oh…..fluck. How many others know about this right now?” She asked. “Where is….”it”…. Right now?” Judy looked at Jackson as she talked. “Oh…...kay…..I’m going to get my uniform on and I’ll be at the precinct in about 45 minutes. I’ll call you when I get close.”

         Judy clicked off the smart phone and went to grab her foot paw leathers… “I have to go to the Precinct so I’m taking our car.” She said to Jackson. “Look after your Dad, I’ll pick him up later when I get a chance.”

        “Oh…..kay?” Jackson replied. “You sound super worried which isn’t very reassuring mom?” Jackson said wringing his hands.

       “You...just go back to bed and get some rest. Enjoy your time off.” Judy replied as she patted her son’s cheek. “I’ll tell you what I can when I get back ok?”

       Jackson watched his mother grab her purse and her hand gun from the coat rack and walk out of the apartment without another word.

ZPD First Precinct “First Prinky”
Downtown Zootopia
3:34am
21 August 2040

      The first thing Judy noticed as she walked through the front doors and into the main foyer was…..the rifles. Officers were carrying carbines everywhere. By the coffee mess, on the balcony, slung over their shoulders, gripped in their paws or resting against the walls as they stood talking in groups and pairs. She even saw a few of them taking them into…..that bathrooms?

     Judy felt the urgency of the occasion demanded she wear her official “full braided” Chief’s uniform and not her usual “tac clothes” (Tactical clothing) she was more comfortable with. She walked up to Page Clawhausers desk, which obviously had been visited again by little Kenny as it was adorned like crazy with balloons…

     “I see our little fox has been at it again huh?” Judy said as she looked up at Page who sported an M-1 Carbine over her shoulder…

     “Who else?” Page replied giggling. “Oh my gawd Judy? I mean...Chief. He makes me want to get pregnant! I love that little guy so much! “Squeals”

     “Page?” Judy asked as she motioned her paws. “What’s with the armed camp look? The extra officers? Um?…..the gun bazaar galore here?”

      “Morning Chief.” A voice from behind made Judy turn to look up at the Woolly Mammoth (Yup...it’s Manny from Ice Age with Ray Romano’s voice) towering over her. “I can answer your questions? But I think you need to get the visual reference first.”

      Judy walked next to Manny as they crossed the foyer. “What’s the need for all the extra cops and guns Manfred?”

      “A few hours ago...one of our Sea Knight patrol boats was sent to check out what was thought to be a derelict boat. Well….it wasn’t so “derelict” because they found some one on board….or…..rather? Some thing.”

    As Judy and Manfred walked into a room in the below street level part of the precinct, Manny wrapped his hands around Judy and set her on the sill of the see through mirror window where she just stood like a silent statue for a moment looking at the figure on the other side of the glass…she was obviously nervous since her left foot started to quiver and tap the sill under it.

    “Yeah….” Manfred said behind her. “First impression shared by everyone and you’re still in the dry undies club.”

     Judy pointed….”Is that?”

     “Yeah….” Manfred replied. “We “think” he is but we’re not sure. But he does fit the popular description….you know….big everything? Including those big teeth?”

    The Kzinti yawned and Judy shivered from the size of the steak knives it had for fangs. “He looks? He looks emaciated. Like he’s starving.”

     “Oh sure….” Manfred said waving a hand. “We gave him a fish? He ate it. We gave him a plate of fish? Down in a minute. We gave him a bucket full of fish? Didn’t last two minutes. Hell we gave him a whole jug of milk….because he’s a big cat mind you? Gonzo in 30 seconds flat. This guy? Is a supermarket black hole.”

     Judy’s bunny curiousness took over….She was on her tip toes, her paws stretched out over the glass and her nose twitching as it sniffed the air...which she soon laughed to herself about the fact that she wouldn’t smell anything…

       The poor Kzinti was gaunt, he looked more terrified and tired than fierce. Perhaps he thought his own future was in doubt just as perhaps the many citizens who died horribly at the claws of these “monsters” felt before they met their fates? He was certainly larger than Zootopian tigers, most reached a max height of six feet. Only elephants would outsize and outweight these predators….

       The fur was a deeper brown/orange and equally close formed to the body, save the head which was very full and flowing out of the cheeks and jowels. The eyes were longer and slimmer in appearance to normal tigers but the whole face and snoot didn’t portray something all the stories called “Fearsome”.

       The paws however….different story. The claws were long and saber looking with very sharp angled edges tapering down into razor sharp points. And the ears? Judy cocked her head to one side reacting to the “queerness” of the fish-like spines with thin flesh stretched between them...

       “Has he said anything? Does he do anything when he’s fed?” Judy asked Manfred.

      “No one here can understand him, that’s for sure. He just sits there. And we know he’s grateful for the food because he bows and says “Doe-moe Ah-ree-gator” or...something which we think is a thank you. Other than that? Not a peep.”

       “Has anyone looked at him to make sure he’s alright? That he not injured?” Judy asked.

       “Some of us had him close and personal and trust me….there was always an officer ready to blow his brains all over the walls. But….we did learn that when he’s being handled by a pair of our tigers? He’s compliant and docile to insult. He even kissed and snuggled Officer Borden’s paw...creeped the guy out seriously.”

        Judy did a double take….”You? You had a weapon put to his head?”

        “Damn right I did!” Manfred replied forcefully. “What?! I’m going to put any of my officers close to that “thing” without a little behavior re-enforcement?”

         Judy frowned...”Manny? Our policy is and has always been….never to mistreat nor threaten prisoners. He’s not even a prisoner! Has anyone even made a slight effort to show him that we will not harm him? Have you called anyone yet from the city government? The Mayor? The Secretary of State? The military?.”

        Manfred replied. “No….and for the moment we should wait before we blab to the whole city...”Hey! We got a Kzinti! Let’s have a lynching party!” To say nothing of….oh….I dunno? The whole Kzinti nation coming at us with everything they have to spring their boy out of jail? The only officers right now who know he exists are the crew of Knight 13 who found him, Officers Borden and Lamont (Tigers) who transported him, Officer Clawhauser who processed him, Myself and you and all of us including you will sign a department gag order sheet. No one leaks snit, says snit or “facepaws” snit or? They will be a pile of hurting snit.”

        Judy nodded. “Wise precaution. But still? Has anyone shown him that he will not be harmed?”

        Manfred shook his head. “No….and don’t ask anyone to try. It’s too dangerous. No one wants to risk their necks with this “thing” Judy.”

        Judy turned around from the window….”Stop...calling...him….a….”thing”. I will not have a prisoner nor a potential prisoner addressed as an inanimate object. Do you realize what we have here?”

       “Yeah….we have an overgrown tiger from a society that roasts screaming otters on spits, cuts the tails off of crying foxes and shoots polar bears in the head for doing nothing….that’s what we have in that room Judy. That’s the truth. Look at his clothes! Khaki colored shirt and pants? That’s a military uniform minus the insignia and patches. No damn way I’ll trust anyone in that room alone without an armed officer.”

       Judy clenched her fists. “This is the first contact we’ve had with a Kzinti. If he is a soldier? He’ll understand body language and presentation. Some one has to try and show some humility. It’s got to start some place.”

       Manfred shook a finger at Judy’s nose...”I know where you’re going Judy and I’m putting my foot down….my trunk…..what ever! You ARE NOT going into that room with that…..that…..Kzinti unless I put an officer in there ready to put a slug through his brains. That….he…..will eat you whole or he’ll pop your little head off like a kid with a doll! You are NOT going IN THERE!”

       Judy clenched her teeth and stomped up close to Manfred’s face….”Who wears the stars here Officer Mammoth?! Who’s the Chief and who’s the street pounder….huh?! WHO!!” Judy snarled as she pulled on her collars. “I outrank you Mister! So shut the FLUCK UP!”

       Manny slackened….”Gawd damn you Chief. You’re part crazy, part stupid or whole crazy and very stupid.”

       Judy snorted back….”Well my husband is passed out at home so he can’t do anything to stop me. Give me whatever backup you want Manny but no one else goes in there but me. Believe me….I’ll piss fire if I need to get out of there fast.”

      Manny sighed and pulled his radio mic off his belt. “This is Manny in the basement. I need SWAT down here ASAP for a “stack-up”

30 minutes later….

     Outside the holding room door to the right of the door jam, five body armored and armed predator class SWAT officers stacked one behind the other while Manny and Judy stood in front of the room door…

    “Let me try to bribe you out of this obviously insane “moment of truth” Chief? Anything you want? Anything?….just name it?” Manny said.

    “Pay for the flowers?” Judy joked. “Just do what I told you? I’ll be fine.”

     “Famous last words were never more bravely spoken.” Manny said as he gripped the handle.

     “That’s?…..foolishly spoken.” Judy said as she pulled on her uniform shirt and dawned her Chief’s cap. “Get it right Manny.”

      Judy closed her eyes and thought...”Ok Great Frith….get me through this. You probably think this is really stupid too huh?”

     She then popped open her eyes, turned to Manfred and nodded her head.

     “Kawam-ura-Rhitu” is “his” name. He is twenty three and all he knows at the moment is mouth shut, ears and eyes open. Every creature he’s seen thus far seems just as amazed, bewildered and quizzical as he is and like them? Hey can’t understand a word they say to him. At present however….conversation is the last thing on his priority list.

      The door to the room suddenly opens at the far wall and in steps a mammal that’s totally foreign to Kawam-ura. What’s with the hose thing sticking out of his face and the long twisty poles on the sides of his mouth? The Kzinti cringes a little. It would not be smart to anger this big monster. He watches it turn to the side and salute but what is it saluting? From where he’s sitting...the Kzinti can’t see anything beyond the end of the table yet the strange mammal is saluting someone and looking down at some one so…Kawam-ura decides to slowly lean over to the side of the table edge.

      “Eh?….a Bani?” He thinks to himself as he looks down at Judy. “How remarkable?” he thinks as the rabbit without any word climbs onto a chair then onto the table. The look on the face is astounding. The Bani stands ram rod stiff, absolutely not a look of fear in it’s eyes as it walks up and stops a foot from his paws…
 
      Judy might have looked confident but she was fighting her fear instincts as she stood not far from a good swipe strike with one of those razor carrying claws. She knew that the stacked SWAT cops standing prepared outside the door couldn’t help her now if this Kzinti chose to take her out….

      Kawam-ura regarded the official looking uniform and the rows of stars on the Bani’s collars. Obviously in this society, it commanded respect. A wrong move and Kawam-ura knew he’d probably be dead in seconds. So he straiten’d himself and offered a courtesy bow…

     “Ohayōgozaimasu banī no shirei-kan” (Good Morning bunny commander) the Kzinti said as he held his bow.

     Judy felt she needed to reciprocate even though she had no idea what he just said….”Welcome to Zootopia. I am Chief of Police Judy Wilde.” She said as she too bowed.

     What did the Bani say? Kawam-ura was confused by the language but buoyant at the return bow. At least they knew good social graces, they weren’t totally “Kikaku-gaigen” (Substandard Foreigners)

     Judy pointed to herself...”My name? Is Judy. Jooooo-deeeee. My name is Judy.”

       The Kawam-ura tilted his head...”Why is she pointing to herself? Juuuu what? Oh! Her name, that’s what she’s saying….her name is….wait? Her? A female Bani has authority?” Kawam-ura thought as he tried to pronounce Judy’s name….

      “Jeeoooo-deeeyooo” Kawam-ura said as he pointed a paw finger to Judy’s chest. “Bani nam-ay wa Judyo?”

       Judy nodded with a smile. “Yes! Yes….I am Judy. What is your name?” Judy asked as she pointed to herself, then to the Kzinti….”Your name is?”

       Kawam-ura caught the hand movements and figured out what the Bani wanted to hear….

      “Nam-may-wa….Kawam-ura Rhitu...desu” The Kzinti said as he patted his own chest.

       Judy replied….”Kawam-ura Rhitu? That is your name right?”

      “Subarashī! Subarashī! Anata wa hōchō no usagidesu! Soshite sono yōna ken'i!” Kawam-ura replied. (Wonderful! Wonderful! You are a cleaver bunny! And with such authority!) Kawam-ura said with a toothy smile, which sort of un-nerved Judy a little from the size of those saber teeth.

       Judy smiled back...then she got bold. Bending down, she patted one of the large paws with hers and looked up at the Kzinti with a soft smile…

       The urge was there...hot desire to rip her to shreds, to kill the perversion, to rip her guts out and watch her die. Yet….the display of courage on her part was both admired and respected. Back home...a Buni would shriek and scream and coward in a corner which only added to the delight of devouring it while it still kicked and breathed...This one wasn’t going to offer the same pleasure and to just kill it would mean his death and he wasn’t ready for that.

      Judy caught the other large paw moving upwards and outside the two way window...Manny was raising his hand to the SWAT team and hearing the sounds of rifle bolts clicking home. Yet Judy wasn’t moving…

     “Son of a bitch...” Manny snorted. “She’s really one crazy bunny.”

        Judy watched as the massive paw rose over her head, then came down to gently pat her…

       “Yūki aru usagi…… watashi wa anata o oshimanaideshou.” (Courageous rabbit....I will spare you.)  Kawam-ura said softly. Then...to everyone’s shock? He kissed Judy on the head.

      “No…..No….” Judy said to herself as she tightened her legs to prevent pissing over herself. Something you definitely don’t do with a predator like this! She put a paw to her breasts and blew a small sigh of relief...”Um…..is there anything you need? Water? Food? Are you hurting?” She said as she gestured to Kawam-ura. He gestured back….”drink.”

     Judy waved to the window and motioned like drinking from a cup and soon Manfred came in with a pitcher of water and a glass…

     “That? Was the craziest most gutsiest display I ever saw in my whole life.” The Mamouth said. “Can I tell SWAT to stand down now?”

     “You can tell the whole station to relax now. Get a cot, some pillows and blankets in here for him and escort a doctor in here so he can check him out. We’ll keep him sequestered in here for now until I talk to the mayor in the morning.”

     Judy then gestured Manfred down and whispered...”Now get me out of here please because I’m about to wet my panties?”

    Manfred picked Judy up and she waved to the Kzinti as she went out. Manfred could tell just by holding her and feeling the tremblings? She was scared snit-less but she had the sense not to let it over-whelm her. “I’ll keep this part a secret? But damn Chief...that took a lot of guts. Wasn’t expecting that from a bunny.”

    “How long have you been a cop?” Judy snorted back.

    “Guess not long enough to stop doubting you obviously.” Manfred replied as he placed Judy on the floor and held the bathroom door for her.

    “I’m going to need a few minutes ok? You wouldn’t mind standing there would you?” She asked Manfred.

    “Take all the time you need.” The mammoth replied as he crossed his armed and looked like he would take the head off any mammal that dared to say a word to him.

Jackson and Darla’s apartment
Sahara Square
8am
21 August 2040

     “Um….Nick? Mister Wilde?” Darla said as she stood on a stool at the coffee maker and wiggled a paw at Nick as he shuffled and lightly hobbled into the kitchen space. He wasn’t just naked and groggy...he was naked and groggy with a hard on…

      “Mister Wilde?!” Darla yelped again as she waved her paws...when Nick finally recognized her and looked down….he panic’d! 

      Nick’s tail whipped up between his legs! “OH MY GAWD! I’M SORRY! I’M SORRY DARLA! SNIT!” Nick yelped as he tried to shuffle back! Then he reached out and grabbed for a wall corner as he felt his back giving out!

     Darla was off the stool and on him quick enough to put her whole body into holding him up from behind to keep him from crashing to the floor and the tortured fox let out a horrible screech enough to get Jackson flying from his bed room….

    “YIE! YIE! YIE!” Nick cried and yelped with his paws tightly clenched as Jackson got under an arm and held him up….

     “Dad?! Dad?!” Jackson said as he wrapped an arm around his father’s waist and helped him back to the couch...”Dar? What happened?” Jackson asked Darla as he helped his suffering father to sit…

     “I’m sorry Jackie!” Nick cried….”Stupid me! Owwww! Owwww! My back’s on fire!”

      Darla grabbed a paw and let Nick squeeze hers...”He came into the kitchen space naked and I just told him and he panic’d.” She said as he held Nick’s paw to her cheek and rubbed his slowly.

      “Darla! I am so sorry.” Nick said crying as Jackson snatched up his father’s BVD’s and worked them up over his legs and around his fluffy tail…

      “Anything to get attention Dad.” Jackson said smirking. “Do you want me to call a doctor?”

      Nick grimaced….”No...it’s getting less painful now...and don’t call your mother! Wait? Where is your mother?”

      Jackson motioned Darla to get a wet face cloth as he laid Nick down in with the comforter...”She got called into work. I guess it was something very serious and they needed her to be there. Right now? You’re the one who needs all the pampering so enjoy it.”

     Nick frowned. “I ruined your day off.”

     “We were going to sleep it all away anyway Dad.” Jackson replied. “Now shush.” Jackson took the wet warm cloth from Darla and placed it over his father’s forehead. “There you go.” Jackson said with a smile. “Like I said? Anything to get some attention huh Dad?”

    Darla snickered. “He even added a little “emphasis” she playfully said as she pointed down.

   “Damn Dad!” Jackson yelped. “Going after my girlfriend? You big pervert.”

   Nick sighed...”Add that insult to injury you little brat.”

   “I wasn’t impressed. Trust me.” Darla said giggling.

   “Damn!” Nick yelped back. “Getting it from everywhere! Don’t tell Judy? I’ll never get over it!”

     Jackson nuzzled his father’s neck...”Wouldn’t dream of doing that Dad. We’ll wait a little bit then you can lie down in our bed and let us feed you breakfast. How bout that?”

       Nick smiled back...”And a preening?”

       “Yes Dad.” Jackson replied. “And a preening too. Getting injured so he can get pampered is one of his oldest scams.” Jackson chuckled to Darla.

      “First?” Darla said as she snuggled her boyfriend’s neck. “Your breakfast.”

Gilly’s apartment
Sahara Square
8am
21 August 2040

      Gilly jumped onto Will’s back and wrapped his arms around his lover’s neck… “Good morning!” The happy bunny said as Will backed off from the stove, grabbed Gilly by the arm and swung him around into a hug hold. The wolf noticed the thick pink socks Gilly wore up to his rump…

      “Cute socks.” Will said as he gave Gilly a nose lick.

       “So? What are you cooking?” Gilly asked as Will put him down.

       “I’m making carrots and grits for you and chuck steak gravy and vegetables for me.” Will replied. “So? What do you want to do today?”

        “Get you a new suit.” Gilly replied. “You can’t do television and net videos dressed like a reject from a “Tony Buck” (Tony Hawk) documentary.” 

         “I’m not a real suit and tie wolf.” Will said as he started to prepare the plates.

          “I don’t care.” Gilly replied. “You need to at least look somewhat respectable if you want to win mammals over. I’m paying for it so...no complaints. We can go to the mall and after that the movies and then dinner and drinks before coming back here to get to bed early.”

        Will snickered….”You left “fluck” out of the inventory.”

         Gilly waved a paw….”I forgot….fluck my rump senseless every half an hour…..right.”

        Will sighed...”About last night? The Alex thing? I’m so sorry for that.” He said drooping his ears.

        Gilly threw a shrug...”Are you going to “eee-moe” out on me again? How about this? This time I play the predator with a big strap on and nail your hump? The visual will be fricken hilarious!”

        “I don’t do bottom tail.” Will said waving a paw. “I’ll be fine really. Let’s just have one day without any sex or kinky stuff between us? But I’m buying dinner this time and no arguments about that ok?”

        Gilly nodded back. “I promise you...when I feel it’s safe enough? I’ll try and talk to Jackson and tell him the truth about us. I’m just worried he might not accept it….you know….”

       Will smiled back...”He sounds alright so I think you’re worried over nothing. Why don’t you let me talk to him?”

       Gilly shook his head. “Has to be me or no one. Talking to him is probably going to get into bunny faith and that’s not too well understood if you’re not a cotton tail.”

       Will smiled and gave Gilly a nose kiss...”Let it rest for later? Enjoy your breakfast before it get’s cold.”

Headquarters
“The Rock of Aden” Regiment
1st Zootopian Fleet Marine Division
Camp Ephrarah, Aden Borough
8am 21 August 2040

      The burly regimental Sargent Major Cailean MacUirigh , a very large and imposing black and white fur’d Welsh Hare, stepped into the office of the regimental commander Lieutenant General Mànas MacAra, an equally sized tri-color hare, and gave him a stiff salute…

     “Yes Sir! What be your pleasure this morning?” MacUirigh asked.

     General MacAra passed the Sargent Major a blue folder...”Deployment orders Sargent Major. We are to join the 1st Division in a strength display in the Outback Islands in three weeks. Show the flag, make nice with the native “Kang-gees” “Cap-ees” and “Wall-lees” and show them how we can make large holes in dirt. That’s our warning orders.” The General pointed his paw finger around. “By the numbers Sargent Major. Pass that along to the leadership, make sure they begin to prep and set their bunnies. I want a clean equipment report before the end of the week.”

     The Sargent Major saluted sharply. “Yes Sir!” He snapped out before he turned and marched out of the commander’s office where he stopped to hand a bunch of stapled pieces of paper to Colonel Dennis Lannan who was General MacAra’s chief of artillery. 

     “A cruise to the Outbacks? Nice! Any chance of “in porting” during this excursion?” Lannan asked as he walked with the Sargent Major into the coffee mess…

     “Depends on the group commander.” MacUirigh replied. “I can’t see why not?” The Sargent Major poured Dennis a cup of coffee. “By the way Sir? I’ve received some word as of late about incidents of hazing with our new arrivals? Even a clerical fox...who has absolutely no paws on with our equipment had his tail dipped in blue ink while he was sleeping.”

     Lannan frowned. “Was it from my detail?”

     “No...” The Sargent Major replied. “But the feelings of the regiment are universal from the grumblings I’ve heard. These new members come with high standing from their former units. Four of them are crack sharp shooters assigned to back the guns up with fire discipline against enemy snipers and if they get run out of the unit because the boys are feeling “butt hurt” having to work aside foxes and I get my paws on any single individual rebel rouser? Rest assured Sir, I will make them hurt worse than a reprimand. Unit pride means nothing if we end up sending sons and fathers home in coffins because we ran off good Marines who could have saved their lives just because they have longer tails than ours.”

      Colonel Lannan nodded and saluted. “I will be sure to pass your warning on to the other bunnies Sargent Major. There will not be any hazing nor harassment tolerated in my command. In fact? Detail those sharp shooters to my unit, I’ll be sure to put them to good use.” Lannan said before he walked off to his morning staff officer’s meeting.

Camp Quanaco Marine Base. Sahara Central.
The main gymnasium
9am 21 August 2040

      “Are you ready yet?” Chancy asked as he stood on the other side of the row of lockers.

      “Why are you on the other side Unk?” Alex replied. “What? Am I like the plague or something?”

       “Well...you’re putting on a sports cup so I thought….” Chancy saw Alex walk around the corner wearing a balls protector…

      “Oh my gawd, What am I? Flucken six?” Alex yelped as he put on his athletic clothes. “So we’re going to spar with puggle sticks?”

      “No.” Chancy replied. “We” are not but “you” are with one of our top combative trainers from MCRD. He’s an old friend of mine and he says he’ll train you while I’m deployed.”

      Alex stopped dressing….”Deployed? Where are you going?”

      “Nothing for you to worry about Alex.” Chancy said waving a paw. “Some of the 1st Division is going on maneuvers in the Outback Islands at their request. Seems the Kzinti have an interest in being jerks there too so the Mayor is sending a few of the destroyers and the Amphibious corps to give them a little thought for consumption. We don’t expect any trouble.”

     Alex finished getting his clothes on and looked around the locker room. “Uncle? I’m….I’m having these wild mood swings? Guess you could call them that? My mind flip flops a mile a second and it’s driving me nuts.”

    Chancy rubbed Alex’s shoulder. “Then you need a proper re-alignment don’t you? Now….you need to concentrate and you need to keep your brain focused on this gunny you’re going to meet because he’s good at what he knows and his whole purpose in life is to mess with your head and get you to screw up. Don’t let him trip you up ok?”

    Alex gave a little snarl...”I hope he doesn’t “fag” me.”

    “Alex?” Chancy snorted. “Mouth muzzled...ears open.”

    Chancy led Alex out into the gym and onto the basketball court where a gray and white Timber Wolf with a thick black tuft of fur around the top jowl of his muzzle stood watching the other two come up. He wore the “Smoky Bear” or “Ranger Smith” wide brimmed and stiffened hat of a Drill Instructor and he was certainly a little bigger than Chancy…

   “Good Morning Master Gunner.” Chancy said as he walked up and shook the other wolf’s paw.

    “Morning Gunny Chance.” The Master Gunnery Sargent replied. He looked at Alex and nodded. “So? This is the pup who wants to be a Marine?”

    Right on cue, Alex drooped his ears and lightly growled back...”I am not a puppy.”

    “Oooooo….!” Master Guns Flash replied. “He missed puppy chow this morning.”

    Chancy gave Alex a smirk. “What did I tell you Alex?”

    “It’s all good.” Flash said smiling. “Good morning Alex. Chance told me all about you. Already doing MCT’s? That’s the spirit, good on you.”

     Alex wagged his tail. “Thank you Master Gunnery Sargent of Marines Flash! My Uncle told me you’d be head screwing me today.”

     “Got the lingo down too?” Flash replied. “Chance, you’ve been prepping him good.” Flash bent down to Alex’s snoot. “You and I are going to get personal while your Uncle’s off trying to look tough.”

      Alex looked at Flash’s collar devices then he looked at Chancy’s. “Hey Uncle? How come he’s a Master Gunny and you’re just a plain Gunny and you’re close to retirement?”

     Alex smirked at his Uncle...”Wow? Suddenly he’s not barking.”

     Master Guns Flash joined in. “Chance? You never told him the story?”

    “Lies fabricated by my rivals.” Chancy snorted back.

    “Allow me to explain Alex?” Master Guns said as he patted Alex’s shoulder.

    “Flash? You say anything and we’re going to four leg feral throw down right here...” Chancy snarled.

     “Uh? Who is Master Guns again Chancy?” Flash replied. “It’s a story of chivalry meeting dumb assery. Your uncle meant well….just….not exactly the best of circumstances…..he…..he slugged a general.”

     Alex’s maw dropped. “You? Decked a general?!” He yelped.

     “I….decked a tail-hole prick.” Chancy snorted back.

    “He decked a General.” Flash repeated. “Our gallant Marine came upon a wolf yelling at a young female in base housing and felt his treatment of sed princess was “beyond toleration”. Never mind the fact that Chance here was passing through “officer’s country” and stopped in front of the home of Brigadier General Togo Akaila.”

     Alex gasped...”You nailed “Old Toothy?”

     “He was not “Old Toothy” then...” Chancy snorted. “He was old dick face making his fourteen year old daughter cry.”

     “She was going out with a wolf her father severely disapproved of.” Master Guns Flash said. “And as with most Marines who are fathers of young female wolves? They are a little over-bearing. Chancy didn’t know he was confronting “Old Toothy” and “Old Toothy” was in no mood at the moment to identify himself. There were a few choice words back and forth and then “Old Toothy” decided to insult your Uncle’s mother in the worst way. Your Uncle beat the snot out of him.”

     Chancy snorted...”The bastard ripped up my ear. No one calls your Grandmother a street whore.”

      Flash sighed...”You have such a notorious temper at times Gunny Hyke. Anyway...the whole thing went to a courts martial, circumstances taken into account and your Uncle couldn’t advance higher in rank because of the letter put into his service record. Yet? He was right...Mr and Mrs Balto are happily married and “Old Toothy” is probably putting a flame thrower to wolf heaven rather than admit he was cruel, callus and wrong to his own daughter.”

     Chancy smirked. “I was the best mammal. Now that probably had the old war wolf pissing his tail.”

      Alex was looking to side and didn’t catch Master Guns Flash as he suddenly came upon the young wolf, kicked his legs out from under him, slammed him onto his back and put his big paw around Alex’s throat!

     “What’s the first rule of Marine combat son? MCT now!” Flash demanded.

     “Never take your eyes off the opposition.” Alex replied. Flash pulled him up to his feet.

      “What are the weapons of a Marine?” Master Guns asked.

      Alex perked up….”His rifle, his K-Bar, his body, his claws and his teeth!”

      Flash reached out and played with Alex’s jowls….”Nice! Nice and white! This pup has good parents.”

     Alex batted Flash’s paws away...”For the last time….I’m not a puppy!”

    Flash gave Alex a smack in the snoot. “And that’s the first thing that will get you killed! Your Uncle told me not to treat you lightly Alex. I’m trick screwing with your head and so far? I’m winning. This little temper of yours could get you killed real quickly in combat. Think about that?”

    Master Guns walked away a few feet and came back with a pair of puggle sticks. “You know what these are right? What’s the red end?”

    Alex replied. “The business end of the rifle.”

    “And the white end?” Master Guns asked.

   “The Butt of the rifle.” Alex replied as he took one of the sticks from Flash.

   “The rifle is what?” Master Guns asked.

   “The main tool of the Marine.” Alex replied.

    “What’s the purpose of close quarter combat?” Master Guns asked.

    “To always return to the main tools of our trade. Our rifles and our K-Bars.” Alex replied. “That’s why we have teeth to tear and claws to rip! Throat, eyes, ears even the enemy’s balls deserve no mercy!”

      “He knows MCT’s very well.” Flash said to Chance. “And what’s this “ours”? You’re not a Marine you little piss pot civilian? What? Do you even dare to think you have hair one on your little cub balls yet? You baby faced, pampered puff butt little snot bag?”

      “Not yet.” Alex replied snarling. “But I will be.”

      Flash whipped his puggle around and went for Alex’s head! Quickly the young wolf dodged the stroke, stomped his foot on Master Guns’s toes and head butted him in the stomach before backing off!

     “How’s that?….you old goat?” Alex snickered.

      “Oh?!” Flash said with a nodding smile as he held his stomach and shook his foot...”You’ve been prepping him?!” Flash snarled at Chance. “You sly bastard!”

      “Prep nothing.” Chancy snorted. “I’ve rough housed with this this kid since he was in diapers, he knows all the good tricks. Maybe you’re just slow as fluck there Master Guns?”

      Flash stopped to wave a paw...”In that case Alex? You better put on a helmet and some body protection because we’re going to go “full feral”...If? That’s what you wish for right?”

      Alex wagged his tail with excitement….”You bet I want it!” He yelped and panted his tongue. “I’m not a panty waste so don’t treat me like it!”

Jackson and Darla’s apartment
Sahara Square
9am 21 August 2040

    Judy walked in to the smell of breakfast and Darla at the kitchen space cooking while Jackson sat reading his smart phone…

    “Hey mom!” Jackson said as he watched his mother hang up her duty belt and her Chief’s cap. “So what got you into work?”

      Judy hopped into a chair...”Oh Fritz in heaven...it was crazy! There was this Coyote in Savanna and he got a hold of Night Howler….and not just a dose of Night Howler...he drank….one full glass of it.”

     Darla turned from cooking. “Crazy!”

     “Crazy wasn’t half of it. He was obsessed with chasing a Road Runner all over the city! He jut had to have this one specific Road Runner and he trashed streets just for the soul goal of getting that Road Runner. Ugh….it took thirty officers… thirty just to get him into cuffs!”

     Darla smirked...”He just wanted that car didn’t he?”

     “I don’t think it was the car as much as the colors they paint those Road Runners. They think the colors is the reason Coyotes are ending up in the emergency room getting their feet run over.” Jackson said.

    Judy looked around the room...”Where’s Nick?” and on cue he came out of the bedroom and leaned against the door jam…

     “There’s my huggy buns.” Nick said smiling. “I took over their bed.”

     “Are you ok?” Judy asked.

     “He sexually harassed me.” Darla snickered. “Pervert.”

     “I’m sorry if I was temporarily confused, naked and some what erect at that moment.” Nick calmly said smiling. “Usually my wife is present to restrain my behavior.”

     Jackson blew his coffee out his nose and pounded a paw against the kitchen table….”Cough, cough! Dad?! You suck!”

     Judy face paw’d herself...”You went naked in “their” home?”

     “Naked is so old….the proper term today is “Natural habitation comfort walking.” Nick replied.

     Darla gestured...”Get back in there “comfort walker” so your son can serve you breakfast in bed and feel like he’s doing something productive.”

      “Wow…love you too.” Jackson said snickering.

      Judy motioned...”I do have to ask you two to watch Nick for a bit more? I have to see the Mayor at 11 am. That’s not cutting into your time is it? If it is….”

      Jackson smiled. “Mom? Since when do you two ever cut into our time?”

      “When your father sexually harasses me?” Darla chuckled.

       “Lies! Vicious lies!” Nick yelped from the bed room. “Hey Jackie? Didn’t you say you were going to give your loving father a tail preening?”

      Jackson patted his mother’s paw….”Scuse me whilst I tend to his majesty's plumage?”

      “You’re sure it won’t trouble you Jackie?” Judy asked.

      “Mom? Go do what you need to do? If we’re not here when you get back just have a cop car ready because we’ll probably be up to something crazy and illegal. You know Dad never retires from being a scammer?”

Big Grazing Land Mall
Sahara Square
10:30am 21 August 2040

       Will sat patiently on the bench inside the small dressing room as Gilly wrapped another tie around his neck and worked on a double Windsor knot. “You realize I’m not a big tie kind of Wolf right?”

      Gilly stood on Will’s knees balancing himself. “Well you can’t wear a business suit without a nice tie.” The bunny said as he adjusted and centered the knot. “Silk looks wonderful on you!”

      “You think so?” Will replied as he placed Gilly on the floor then moved and posed wearing his new suit...”This is really not me? But? Honestly? Do I really look good?”

       Gilly hit Will in the leg with a paw...”You look splendid! What? A gear and wrench mammal can’t wear a nice suit?”

       Will sighed….”Gilly? This is too expensive.”

        “You take that suit off and I’ll slap you! You start getting all pussy and mushy on me and I’ll slap you!” Gilly yelped. “I don’t give a fluck about expenses? Better I spend money for a purpose my lover actually and honestly believes in.”

        Will picked up Gilly and snuggle hugged him...”Ok...ok….I can’t win, I get it. So? You think I’m ready for more serious media interviews?”

        Gilly scratched his head in thought….”Handkerchiefs. You need handkerchiefs.” Gilly opened the door to the changing room and Will followed him back to the male’s clothing section where they stood looking over packs of dress handkerchiefs when someone out of their view said something…

       “Hey? Isn’t that? Isn’t that, that wolf pushing all those protests?”

       “I think so.” Another voice replied to the first.

        Will turned to see three pigs giving him frowns...”Yup. That’s the dumb K-9 bitch.”

       Gilly was about to snap when Will blocked him off and shushed him back behind him...”I take it you guys aren’t exactly happy about what I say? And I’m not a “K-9” unless you guys didn’t graduate school?”

       “Ok? He’s a semi-smart K-9 prick.” Another of the pigs snorted. “Where do you get off saying we shouldn’t defend ourselves pal?”

       “Where have I ever said we shouldn’t defend ourselves?” Will asked.

        “You’re the anti-war douche here, bowl licker.” One pig snorted.

        “Excuse me? I’m not insulting you guys and I don’t want too so if we’re going to have a conversation about our differing views on things? How about we don’t resort to being a gaggle of incoherent chipmunks fighting over one nut?” Will begged. “I’ve never said we shouldn’t defend ourselves.”

        Another of the pigs waved his hoof hand. “See...it’s so easy for you to say this stuff because as a predator? The Kzinti probably would pass you by. Unlike us three...so “you” can feel comfortable telling everyone we shouldn’t be ready to kick those crazy cats asses. “We” have to live every day with the thought of being bacon...something “you” don’t understand.”

        Gilly had enough...”Hey! Listen here you fat, mud flopping bastards!”

        Will tried to put a paw in front of Gilly….”What did I just say Gill?”

        “Don’t block me from speaking my piece?!” Gill snapped at Will. “I’m in the Navy you jerks! Oh yeah….you three can stand there flapping your sausage lips all the damn day because it’s mammals like me that would be the first pieces of raw meat to get thrown in front of those crazy tigers! Any of you sorry sacks of snit ever wore the uniform? Huh? Even one of you?”

        The pigs were silent.

        “Oh….ok…..so yeah….you can enjoy cussing him out because he’s trying hard to at least make everyone think about what’s at stake and who’s lives are going to be destroyed if we get into a fight. I’d rather have him backing me up than a trio of dumb, half dressed dancing porkers signing some stupid song all the damn day long! “Nah, nah, na, na,na,na!”...Shut the fluck up and move on!”

       Gilly stood with his paws balled up...”Well? Anything else to say?” The angry bunny snarled. The three pigs slowly walked away…

       “He needed a bunny to speak for him? Hmph...that wolf must be a fag.” One of the pigs snorted out quietly...but not quiet enough for Gilly to almost leap off the floor had Will not snatched him!

      “That’s….enough Gilly….point proven?” Will said as he carried the angry bunny out of the store...”Ok? Calm down? Do you want me to carry you like a loaf of bread all over the Mall?”

       Gilly relaxed and went limp...”That was tiring. I’m shaking my ass off.”

       “Grrrrrr...power bottom with teeth!….grrrrr…..woof!” Will joked. “That was a nice display of awesome. So? Can I let you down now?”

       “Yeah.” Gilly replied waving a paw finger. “I’m hungry after that.”

City Hall
Downtown Zootopia
11am 21 August 2040

        Judy entered the Mayor’s office and walked the empty feeling long distance to the White Lion’s desk…

        “Good morning Chief!” Mayor Cesar Leo said as he got up, walked around his desk and stick his big paw out. “Nice of you to want to schedule some time with me this morning.”

        “Yes Sir.” Judy replied. “I know you’re very busy. If I may ask Sir? Why are we sending the Navy and the Fleet Marines to the Outbacks?”

         “Don’t worry yourself sick Judy.” Cesar replied. “We’re just doing it as a good will gesture to ease the “Outback-ee-an’s” worries concerning Kzin. As you know from the news, the Kzinti are starting to do to the Outbacks what they’re been doing to us and the Outbacks don’t have near enough the ability to protect themselves. Call this little demonstration of ours “A pause reflection”. Trust me, I have no intention of wanting a fight.”

        Judy breathed deeply….”You can understand my own concern Sir. I...just had to take the opportunity to ask.”

       Cesar gestured Judy towards a chair and walked back to his desk to pick up a blue folder…”This came to my desk yesterday Chief? If I may be so bold? I wish it wasn’t coming this soon. This being your retirement request.”

      “It is necessary Sir.” Judy replied. “Family needs and I really can’t juggle more stress than I can handle.”

       The Mayor’s face softened...”How is your husband?”

        “He’s doing alright at the moment.” Judy replied. “But he’ll need me all the time sooner than I planned. I’m sorry Sir.”

        Cesar waved a paw….”Sorry for what? You’ve earned retirement ten times over with all you’ve done. I dare say finding an equal or superior replacement to you Judy will not be easy. But don’t you dare get all timid and ask us not to send you off without a deserving tribute...”

       Judy held her paws up. “Sir? It’s not...”

       “Yes….it is.” Cesar replied. “No arguments out of you. So? Have you thought of a retirement location?”

        Judy nodded. “Aden-Borough. A friend of ours has a cottage out there he’s willing to sell to us. We went there a few years ago and Nick absolutely loved it so….”

       Cesar leaned over his desk and gave Judy a kiss on her head...”That is from me and my family...”

       Judy rubbed her head as Cesar sat back...”Now?! You said there was something of great importance you needed to tell me? Your retirement probably isn’t it I take it?”

       “Ahhhh….no….that’s…..that’s not the topic, you are correct Sir.” Judy said as she tried to frame the best words possible. “Last night, one of our Sea Knight patrol craft was directed to intercept a derelict vessel that was thought to be abandoned or had simply slipped its’ anchor or mooring lines. That…..turned out not to be the case. When two of my officers boarded the vessel….they came face to face….with a Kzinti male.”

       Cesar’s face dropped…”A Kzinti? You’re absolutely sure?”

        Judy nodded. “He’s in a holding room at First Precinct. He can’t get out and we have armed officers ready to move if he tries but….I don’t think he will cause any trouble.”

      “And you know this why?” Cesar asked.

      “I spent some time with him by myself.” Judy replied. “Now….I know you’re probably wanting to counsel me Sir but hear me out? “He” respected me, he respected both my authority and my courage. He was very docile with me, almost to insult. Sir? This is an incredible opportunity.”

     “Or a very dangerous situation.” Cesar replied. “Who knows about this Kzinti? How many mammals so far?”

       Judy replied….”Myself….my night shift supervisor….our administration processing officer….the crew of the Sea Knight patrol boat who found him….the two Tiger officers who brought him to the precinct and by now perhaps our chief resident nurse.”

       Cesar leaned forwards….”What’s he like physically? What did you glean from being with him?”

       “His name is “Kawam-ura-Rhitu”. he’s fully grown, stands about ten feet tall, he’s brown mustard and black fur colored. He’s a tiger. He has sabers for claws and teeth but he looks emaciated and bedraggled, like he hasn’t eaten nor drunk anything for a week or two and he wears a khaki colored outfit we believe might be a uniform minus rank or anything else.”

      Cesar sat back in his chair and thought….”Have you made the officers who know the existence of this Kzinti sign non-disclosure forms?”

      “They were all briefed and they can all be trusted. No leak will come from my department Sir, I promise you.” Judy said as Cesar got up, walked up to her chair and rested his paws on her arm rests…

      “Judy? Will you at least hold off a little on your retirement plans? At least because of this current circumstance? I need at least one mammal deserving absolute trust.” 

       “I promise to hold out for a little bit Sir but my mind is set. I can’t wait for a whole year. I can give you six more months at best.” Judy waved a paw finger. “We should also keep him sequestered at the First Precinct. At least for the time being. It’s a safer and easily managed environment and he may be more receptive to talking then transferring him into the paws of the military.”

      Cesar nodded...”I trust your judgment Chief. For now only a select few within our intelligence section will be allowed to meet with this Kzinti. He is in your custody for now, do what you feel is reasonable and appropriate.”

      Judy stood up and saluted. “Thank you for your trust Sir.”

       “One more thing Judy?” Cesar said as he passed her a red folder. “The updated version of our civilian emergency response program. When you have a chance? Would you review it and make changes where you see the need?”

      “Of course Sir.” Judy replied. “I will keep you up to date on our “guest” and how he is doing.”

Jackson and Darla’s apartment
Downtown Zootopia
11am 21 August 2040

       The music of SEAL played softly over the radio in the bed room as Jackson sat cross legged on the bed slowly taking a brush through his father’s bushy tail as Nick lay on his back smiling with contentment…

      “Is your back still hurting Dad?” Jackson asked.

      “Nope….” Nick replied. “I’ve missed this so much. Not just the tail preening but us bonding together. Remember this song?”

       Jackson nodded...”I was what? Five or six? I used to dance with Chantelle by holding the tip up over my head?”

       Nick smiled pleasingly...”You remember what I call her?”

       “Dad?” Jackson replied. “A fox’s tail is no small matter.”

       Nick rested his paws on his chest...”I think this is a good time to tell you about that nick name I’ve called you all these years.”

       “You don’t have to Dad.” Jackson replied as he laid Nick’s tail on the bed and started to massage talc into it. “I have fun trying to figure it out.”

        “Well now is as good a time to explain it as any.” Nick replied. “I mean...we are never given tomorrow as a sure thing you know? And I’ve teased you long enough.”

        Nick pulled himself up so he could rest against some pillows and the bed headboard….”Let’s see….it started five years after the Savage scare. I was living with your mother in her small apartment. We were both beat officers in the ZPD at that time and your mother was about to take the exam of Lieutenant. Obviously we were not married and equally obvious? We flucked like two rabbits.”

       Jackson giggled...”Dad?”

       “Well? We were still two single mammals in the prime of our lives and we had to slake our passionate urges. Cept one time we pulled on the handle and got lucky 7’s. You mom wakes me up from a dead sleep and says...”Nick? I’m pregnant.”

       “I thought she was joking...”Ha ha….funny bunny. Only her nose was twitching and “funny” dropped into the sewer cover really quick. I looked at your mother and just picked her up in a big hug...I was excited, joyous...the thought of having a baby with your mother was the most awesome thing to ever happen to me. Your mother however? She was scared out of her fur.”

     Nick sighed….”She brought up having an abortion. Now...now listen to me before you say anything?”

     Jackson sat stroking his father’s tail…

     “You mother had valid reasons at the time...biggest one was? Could she carry you? After all….big fox, little bunny. Her getting pregnant off of me was like a one in a thousand shot and the results of most of these? They don’t end well. Even if she could carry you? The possibility of her being seriously injured for life to say nothing of maybe losing you? That’s a ton of risk to ask her to take on.”

    Jackson pursed his lips...”It doesn’t change how I feel about Mom, Dad.”

   “I know it doesn’t.” Nick said. “But you deserve to know the story because it’s important….any way…..I begged your mother, I pleaded with her not to go through with an abortion. I even said some horrible crap about her that to this day I still can’t live with. She even punched my face and if you think your mother’s too small to deck a moron like me? Ha ha ha….never find out? Don’t really piss her off?”

    “I told her….I said….Judy? You’ve been a light for so many small mammals, you’ve change thousands of lives, you saved my life. Give our baby the same chance to do that. Let your light live through our child. And so? Here you are son. That’s why I always call you “Chance given”.

    Nick tried not to get upset...”Having you Son? Has been the greatest joy of my whole life….(sobbing) Gawd…..Gawd I hate going to snit like this...”

    Jackson snuggled Nick under his chin...”All I see is the best Dad in the whole world.”

     Nick slowly licked his Son’s fur….”I suck at putting up brave fronts...sigh… I really miss the days where you were so small and we spent hours just bonding and talking.”

     Darla poked her head through the door. “Are you two going to spend all day making out with each other?”

     Jackson gathered up Nick’s tail and hugged it. “I’m getting re-acquainted with my “other girl friend” so shoosh...go shopping...take my wallet Jessie James.”

     “Why don’t we all go shopping?” Darla asked. “Your mother’s probably going to be busy the rest of the day anyway?”

     Nick waved a paw. “I do need to get out and stretch. Can’t live in your guy’s bed all day, I’ll start to stink.” 

Camp Quanaco Marine Base. Sahara Central.
The main gymnasium
noon, 21 August 2040

      Alex was on his paws and knees shaking his head and catching his breath…

     “We should break for lunch.” The Master Guns said as he petted Alex’s back.

     “No…..”huff huff”….You should stop talking.” Alex calmly replied, then in one swoop he batted the puggle stick away, got to his feet, struck the Master Gun’s paw with his protective helmet to keep him from protecting himself….

      And went for a death lock jaw grip on the bigger wolf’s throat! Alex threw all his weight into Flash’s chest and toppled him onto his back as the younger wolf sank his teeth with everything he had into Flash’s neck!

     “ALEX!” Chancy bounded up with shock to try and pull his nephew off but the young wolf had his jaws locked in a murderous snarl...”ALEX! LET GO OF HIM!”

       “Sheesh Chan Chan….stop pissing yourself?” Flash yelped out and waved a paw as Alex shook his head to increase his bite…

        “RAWOLLLLLL…..” Alex growled deeply as he now dug his claws into Master Gun’s chest protector. After a few minutes...and some petting on the head… Master Guns Flash got Alex to back off…

        “Now that was good.” Flash said smiling as he sat undoing the thick leather collar around his neck. “I could feel him clamping down...this kid has nice bite force.”

       Alex sat clicking his teeth together...”Imagine that on your nut sack?”

       “Alex?!” Chancy warned.

      “What?” Alex replied. “Oh come on Uncle. One of the targets after all is the enemy’s prince jewels right? “Go for the nuts then the noggin?”

       Master Guns Flash showed off the leather collar which gave the Fleet Marines one of their nicknames “Old Leathernecks” because long ago they wore these thick leather neck guards to fend off slash attacks by bayonets and knives. “He put those teeth deep into the rawhide. Good “improv” Alex?”

        Alex got to his feet. “Master Guns? Do you think I could qualify for the Raiders?”

       Flash nodded. “It’s possible you could...provided you get all your anger issues worked out before enlistment.”

       Alex frowned. “I don’t have any anger issues.”

       “Yes…..you do.” Master Guns Flash replied as he put a paw finger to Alex’s snoot. “Are you calling me a liar? Do you doubt I can easily determine character?”

       “Well I don’t think I have an “issue”.” Alex huffed. “I’m just very eager to prove myself.”

   

        “I think...judging by how you tore this neck protector up, that you’re trying to be “too eager”. In fact you were way “too eager” for the past two hours getting your snoot kicked around like a basket ball. I warned you that combat is more about thought than aggression. Throwing around puggle sticks is not about whacking the other guy in the face as much as it is about learning how to throw off an attacker so you can what?”

      Alex sighed….”Get back to your tools, they are your first and best weapons. Then what good are teeth and claws if you can’t use them to kill when the opportunity exists?”

       Master Guns thumped Alex off his forehead….”You’ll learn if you keep your head level and listen. You and I are going to have a lot of face time believe me. That’s all for now however...I have classes starting at 2pm till 6 so I’ll call Chancy and set up a schedule for the two of us to do more sparring together.”

      Master Guns placed a paw on Alex’s shoulder...”You’re on a good start Alex, be happy you did so well today. We just have to sand a few rough edges but I think your heart’s all set. You a quick improviser, good trait to have.”

      Flash nodded to Chancy. “Hey? You and I should go out for drinks Gunny. Been a while since we tied a few n screw.”

      “We’ll “bar-bee” when I get back.” Chancy replied smiling. “Thanks for working my “nef” to exhaustion. See you later on Flash.”

       Alex followed Chancy into the locker room...”Did I really do that good? He wasn’t “bitch baby’ing” me right?”

       “Oh no….he was beating you up, just couldn’t go full tilt because legally you’re an underage civilian but you did surprise him. Now see how all those years of roughing you and Will up produced results?” Chancy said as he stopped at Alex’s locker.

      “Didn’t do much for Will….then again….he has always won our wrestling matches...” Alex said with a sigh….”When he….oh I’ll shut up.”

     Chancy gave Alex a shoulder punch. “Hurry up and shower and we’ll go get something to eat.” 

Big Grazing Land Mall
Sahara Square
12:30pm 21 August 2040

     Will picked up Gilly’s giggling and wiggling body, dropped him onto the seat inside the camera booth and followed behind him….

     “Come on! Move over!” Will yelped as he pushed himself onto the seat.

     “We could just use our cell phones Will!” The bunny yelped as Will reached over and pulled him onto his lap…

      “You can’t put a cell phone in your wallet...stop making a fuss before some one pokes their head in here dufus!” Will yelped as he tried to hold Gilly with one arm while struggling to get a dollar into the pay slot….

      Gilly reached down and un-did some of Will’s shirt buttons till he took hold of paws of fur….”Wanna flucken “jam” the snit out of me for these?”

      “Cut it out and sit normally?” Will yelped. “Crazy rabbit!”

      Gilly stood on Will’s knees and pulled at his shirt...”Push the buttom already!” Gilly said as he pulled himself to Will’s snoot and tongue flucked his love as the camera took the shots. The excited bunny then hopped out and snatched the picture strip before anyone could see it.”

      “Now that’s flucken hawt!” Gilly yelped as he showed Will the picture strip. “You are so cute in a picture Will.”

       “Ok Gill...” Will asked as he put the strip into his pocket. “Let’s not advertise things too loud? Any ideas on lunch?”

        Gilly pointed to a restaurant. “Luzinos? I hear their Salmon and bunny salad is the bomb.”

        “Fine with me.” Will replied as he followed his love.    

Aden-Borough.
Equipment carborundum of the  “Rock of Aden”
3rd Battalion Artillery, 1st Fleet Marine Division
21 August 2040 2pm

The entire 3rd Battalion was present sitting on the floor or atop their field pieces and support trucks or standing around in groups waiting for the Commanding and Executive Officers to arrive. The subject of the call for quarters was obvious and not a few of the bunnies had angry looks on their faces from this “gross a front” by the high command. It was even worse to think that the Commander himself had requested the transfer of these “Four Hombrah faggots” to the battalion. More than a few of the bunnies present were planning “arrival packages” for the dirty long tailed vermin now walking behind the Commanders…

       Colonel Dennis Lannan watched as the battalion was called to attention and some of the bunnies were slow to rise. Noticed too by his executive officer  Lieutenant Colonel Kevin Paddington…

       “They’re looking to crucify you Lanny.” Paddington whispered.

        “So are you Paddy.” Kevin snorted. “Wipe that piss puss off your snoot before I slap it off. You’ll back up my orders and my authority or you can count on a garbage truck job in your near future.”

          Paddington huffed. “If you’re not lynched before the day is out.”

           Lannan stopped in the middle of the circle of bunnies and regarded their faces….”3rd Battalion! Ah-ten…..SHUN!” Lannan snapped out with as much a growl as he could muster...it had the effect. At least all of them replied quickly.

          “Good afternoon Gun Bunnies!” Lannan snapped out! “Before we come to the unpleasant order of business? I wish to announce that we will be deploying to the Outback Islands within three weeks at the behest of our “Outie” friends to demonstrate to the Kzinti that we’re a land of mammals to be taken at our word. Obviously that news should make some of you happy since many of us have enjoyed the hospitality of our friends down under. All the usual preparations for deployment must be completed by next week.”

        “And now….on to the un-pleasent topic of this gathering. You all know that I have asked for four Marines to be attached to our battalion. I have asked for them because they have received less than the accorded respect so deserved of all Marines be they wolves...otters….Tanuki….or any other mammal. Some of you have called me a traitor...most of you probably think I make a pretty decorative pile of rabbit snit right now.”

       No one dared to laugh. No one spoke. Lannan gestured to the four foxes. “Would you all come up here please? Don’t be shy or timid. Come here and tell these bunnies your names, ranks and shooting abilities will you please?”

The first fox was a tall English Red...”My name is William Forsyth. Staff Sargent. I’m a qualified sniper.”

The Second was an Arctic Sable Fox...”My name is Tracy Scott. Sargent. Qualified Marksman.”

The third was a tri-colored Siberan Fox….”My name is Vasili Zetskikov. Sargent. Qualified sniper.”

The fourth was a white and red Scottish Fox….”My name is Allan Adale. Sargent. Qualified Marksman.”

       Lannan paused for a moment...”I know how much this regiment means to all of you….to us….to Aden. I also know that we have our traditions and we hold fast to them dearly do we not? One of those traditions is honesty, to speak the truth of our hearts without fear. Well?….we are Marines. These four before us? They are also Marines. As Marines? Do they not deserve to hear the truth from your lips? Are all of you bunnies of Aden enough in the lower regions to speak your hearts to their faces or will you be cowards and talk among yourselves how to plan to drive them from our ranks? And don’t lie any of you because I know you’ve been scheming.”

     Lannan walked close to some of the bunnies….”Surely the sons of Aden are not cowards? Are you? Will you tell them the truth to their snoots or wait to assault them at night like cowardly scum? To hit them in the dark and then lie about it? Has your courage so failed all of you that you would act like rats?”

    Suddenly one bunny, a private, stood up...”I hate them! Why can’t these Hombrah bastards make their own brigade? This is our home and they soil it with their filth!”

     Another Bunny stood up...”We don’t want you here! We’ve spent and our fathers spent years of toil to build up this place of honor for our species. Why have you come knowing we hate you with every marrow of our bones?!”

        “Get out Hombrah scum!” Another bunny yelled.

        “Why have you done this perversion to us Colonel?! Why have you contaminated our ranks with these bush tail thieving bastards!”

        As if on cue...Lannan snatched up and threw an M-14 battle rifle into the paws of Staff Sargent Forsyth. The fox flipped it around, charged the receiver into battery and cut loose a flurry of shots that sent bunnies scampering for cover! He in turn flipped the rifle into the air, which was caught by Sargent Scott who in turn banged off four rounds and onward to the other two foxes. The last, Vasili, finished off the magazine, popped the Queen Ann salute and grounded the rifle before returning to attention.

          Lannan marched away from the assembly, recovered a rifle target from the other end of the carborundum and dropped it in the middle of the ring of bunnies….

         The bullseye had been cleanly shot away….from 200 yards.

         Lannan pointed down….”This is why I brought these “abominations” to this battalion. Can any of you do this same feat? Any four of you? Speak up? Speak up now? Any of you?”

        “There are no bunnies of Aden that can shoot like this? Not this far and no farther?….we don’t have the luxury of such weapons because of our size and we have resisted to the death any mammal capable of such disciplines because…. they’re not us. They’re not bunnies….Especially as you so aptly describe… ”They’re nothing but Filthy, dirty, thieving Hombrah bastards.” And yet these “bastards” are Marines, they didn’t ask to be detailed with us. They weren’t ordered to be detailed to us. They volunteered to be among us knowing they would suffer abuse from ignorants and morons. Well I for one do not want to send some ignorants and morons home in boxes to their families “who”…..when they found out these fine Marines were driven away when they could have given their loved ones protection? I dare say I wish it not to be the one who suffers the indignation of angry parents, wives and sweethearts.”

      Some of the bunnies drooped their heads. Others looked away from Lannan. “A Marine is a Marine….fox, wolf, bunny….whatever. They are all Marines. We all bleed the same crimson, we wear the same uniform. If these four fine Marines can help us achieve our goals? Keep us safe from enemy snipers? Then I care not what they are! By your behavior in hating them without cause, many of you may have signed your death certificates in advance! Your maltreatment of them brings shame upon this battalion and our regiment!”

      Another bunny stood up. “They can’t wear the beret! The beret is “our” mark, not theirs. If they don’t wear the beret they can stay!”

     Another bunny sitting down raised a paw….”They shoot very well. I have no problem with them watching my tail.”

     “You have no problem with anyone watching your tail Shannon.” A bunny next to Corporal Shannon Green (A gray bunny) chirped out.

      “But they’re good shoots! Look at the target! I want them! I don’t want my family crying my death because we told them to go to hell!” Shannon replied. “As long as they agree not to wear our beret they can stay. I think that respect is reasonable for my safety?”

       The foxes talked between themselves. “We agree.” Staff Sargent Forsyth said. “We will not wear the red beret. We understand how much it means to all of you.”

       Lannon nodded. “The matter is settled then. I want no foolishness nor stupid acts upon these foxes by any of you. We have too much to do before we deploy so keep your minds and your work focused to that. Dismissed.

ZPD First Precinct “First Prinky”
Downtown Zootopia
3:30 pm
21 August 2040

      Judy walked into the precinct, took a moment to talk to Page Clawhauser and walked into the medical office to meet with the Precinct’s resident medic, an African “Dic Dic” named Kowambi.

      “Afternoon “Wam Wam” Judy said as she came into the office. “Did you have some time with our guest today?”

      “Finished up an hour ago.” Kowambi replied. “I would have thought I’d feel too nervous around him but I was surprised by his docility. I take it he wants to live bad enough not to act up.”

      “What was his physical condition?” Judy asked as she hopped onto a chair.

      “He’s in fine physical health.” Kowambi replied as he grabbed a clipboard off his desk. “Vitals fine, blood fine, urine fine, teeth and gums fine. There were traces of a drug we’ve never seen before but other than that? He’s in great health.”

       “He looked emaciated when he was found and he ate like a horse.” Judy remarked. “You know horses? Can’t keep a buffet open all day after a herd of Mustangs “food rape” the place. How can he look so thin and worn and be healthy?”

       “Baffles me as well.” Kowambi replied. “He burns through calories like a steam engine. His metabolic rate is far greater than an average Tiger. I haven’t found anything to account for such an accelerated process rate. He must be fed very high caloric and protein rich foods. I’ve already prescribed supplement pills for him.”

        Judy tapped her foot...”Intelligence will be visiting him at some point. I have to lay out procedures for him to get exercise and be allowed to walk in the Precinct garden and training facility. Can’t keep him cooped up in the holding room, that’s just mammal abuse.”

        Kowambi waved a hoof finger...”I must also tell you that by observation? Our friend has been or is in the military. You should take that into your considerations.”

        “Thank you for examining him “Wam Wam” I’ll make sure intelligence knows that little detail of yours.” Judy said as she hopped off the chair and went for the door…

         “Chief?” Kowambi said….”I’ll sure miss you when you retire.”

         Judy smiled back...”I’m not half foot in the grave yet “Wam Wam” but I’ll miss you too.”

Zootopian Fleet Marine Recon (Zoo-cons) base
Muddy Swamp Island Facility
4pm
July 18, 2040       

Home of Zoo-con team six (The Max Rippers)
Kzinti vessel parked for inspection.

     Sargent Virgil Tracy (Otter) and  Sargent Beezler (Otter) crossed the gang way from the dock onto the main deck of the 100 foot Kzinti vessel carrying clipboards, cameras, crowbars, evidence bags and tool pouches attached to their web belts. They met Sargent Osa (Tanuki) as he came down from the pilot house…

     “You two get the honor of “gang raping” below decks. We’ve already swept the main and pilot house clean of things.” Osa said as he showed off the roll of charts under his arm. “Intelligence was very specific...if you can tag and bag the item? Do that. If it has to be cut off the deck, the wall, the overhead...do it. Food stuffs, shower items, porn mags or cum stained sheets...they’re not being picky.”

       Tracy snickered. “Better frisk Beezy and check his car before he goes home. He get’s high of of tiger cum.”

       “Fluck you tail hole.” Sargent Beezler snorted back. “Were any pictures taken of this thing?”

         Osa pulled a picture out of a pocket, showed it to Beezler and the otter cringed….”Holy snit? Please tell that’s a joke picture?” Beezler said. 

        “Nope.” Osa replied. “He’s actually that big compared to a rabbit which makes you? Puppy chow.”

         Tracy patted Beezler’s shoulder. “No worries Beezy. He was the only one on the vessel anyways.”

          Osa waved a paw….”Keep your eyes on everything and don’t move any object you might think could be booby trapped.”

         Tracy snickered again...”Keep those paws off those stained sheets?”

         “You want my teeth on your nose Virgil?” Beezler snorted as he walked around the main deck to find a ladder down to the deck below. “If we find any weapons? Can we take them as a trophy?”

           Tracy replied…”Intel wants everything. After we’re down here for a bit? They want us to go around the hull and scrape growth. How exciting.”

            As they went room by room through the lower deck and found drawers or cabinet doors or items that just looked to questionable to touch...Tracy tagged it nearby with red tape so that a more careful follow on investigation could be carried out. When they reach what they believed to be the boat’s kitchen space, both otters looked bewildered as they slowly pulled cans and boxes of food...or what they could figure out was food...and studied the package and can markings with interest…

        “I think this one is corn...I mean the picture shows corn.” Beezler said. “The writing is strange. How do you think you read it?”

       Virgil took the can and studied it. “It’s a sort of symbol writing. You probably go top to bottom.” Virgil replied as he put the can back on the kitchen counter.

       Beezler just popped the freezer door open on the fridge and pulled out a wrapped package of something, much to Virgil’s sudden shock as he batted the frozen object from Beezler’s paws. “Beezy? Will you think damn it? The fridge could have been “boob’d”!” Virgil yelped as he leaned down and picked up the frozen food….

      “Sniff Sniff….” “What the heck is this? It’s not fish.” Virgil asked as he pased the package to Beezler who sniffed it slowly….

      “Dunno? I’ve never smelled this around Zootopia.” Beezler said as he slowly walked out into the passageway and took a right towards the engine compartment while Scott continued to investigate and tag items in the kitchen…

      “So? What are you going to do with any free time we get in the outbacks?” Beezler asked as he turned to his left and entered a small two mammal bedroom.

       “Oh?” Virgil replied. “Get freaky with the natives? Maybe dive for exotic clams? Lay naked on the beach with a tall bottle of Foster’s Ale and a local chick bouncing on my lap?”

        Beezler slowly pulled some of the clothing draws out in a three draw dresser and in the second to last draw...a knife and sheath lay atop neatly folded rows of clothing. The hilt of the short blade was too tantalizing a thing to pass up so without hesitation….Beezler grabbed the sheath and pulled the knife up…

       And the world suddenly went bright white.  

Jackson and Darla’s apartment
Downtown Zootopia
6pm 21 August 2040

      Judy turned from the kitchen table and her coffee to see Darla and Jackson come through the door with Nick leaning on their backs for support and slowly trudging behind them…

      “Mmmm….wait?” Nick asked his son and Darla to stop and allowed him to hand Judy a beautiful paw full of red roses along with a tender lick kiss on her cheek….”Giggles….sly fox? Dumb bunny. But in your case my loving spouse…
Sly fox…..sexy bunny.” Nick wiggle waved his paw fingers to Judy and followed Jackson and Darla into the bed room. Moments later….they came out to Judy tapping her foot on the floor…

“I know you both know how this game works right?” Judy asked. “Don’t lie to me? What did you do to your father and my husband?”

     Jackson smiled back...”I took my father to the Vulpine Pleasure Palace for a well deserved pampering session. Darla and I paid for it mom. Then we went to the mall, bought him news shirts, pants and a tie and we tired him out silly.”

     Jackson walked up to his mother and lifted her off the floor. “Guess who’s next?”

     “Wait Jackie!” Judy yelped back. “I’m in the middle of some very important things and I don’t have the time...”

      “Blab, blab, blab….I can’t hear you ricochet rabbit.” Jackson said as he threw Judy over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes and wiggled Darla’s nose with his paw. “Watch my Dad will you Darla? And try not to molest him?”

       “Jackson Wilde! You put me down this instant! I’m telling you I’m too busy for a spa day! Jackie?!” Judy yelped.

        “Mom?! Do you want me to get an infant seat for you? Work can wait.” Jackson said as he carried his mother out of the apartment.

End of Chapter 20.