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 11
School: part 2

The contribution of rodents to the Zootopian Navy. An article in the military periodical “The Mayhoof Mag”

     The rodents of little Rodentia in downtown Zootopia had long asked since trouble started with Kzin...”We want to help! Sure we’re small, we can be easily trampled, we can be a bother but just because were the smallest mammals around shouldn’t exclude us from doing something!”

      The little one’s wanted their nitch so the Navy found them one. The care and maintenance of sophisticated electronics and electrical systems aboard our warships used to be tedious and time consuming, not to mention difficult as some maintenance and repairs required taking large power banks and electrical boxes apart in order to reach parts requiring repair or complete removal. Not so after the mice and rats of Rodenita began to flood the Navy’s “Tron Tech” school in big numbers. Come to find out, our little Sailors being so small and nimble were perfect for deep “hands on” work inside sophisticated electronics and their associate power systems. In singles or work gangs...mice reduced the need for complete component disassembly which sped up repair and modification time considerably.

       “It used to be that if you had a serious internal fault with a radar system, you almost always had to take banks and boxes totally apart to get to the problem and that was at times a crazy mess as you could have wires, bundle lines, circuit boards and fasteners all over the deck. With a squad of mice? No fuss….no muss. They really don’t pose a problem aboard ship and they adapt very well to life at sea...except...they have a proclivity for “pack rat’ing” things which is a hard behavior habit for them to break. I always find some of my free pick up paperback books stuffed into nooks and corners as make shift bedding. You should see the shipboard condo these little guys made out of my volume of “Warthogs and Peace.” and to be fair?...it was a good use for it other than a door stop.” The Executive Officer of the Destroyer Tundra said. 
        
Savanna Central
Noon
November 24, 2039
Naval Education Center, Savanna Sands Naval Base.
Electronics/Electrician School.

      Jackson came into the classroom with Albert and Myler on his shoulders to classmates texting on their phones like crazy while ZNN was on the room television. They had only heard of what was happening when Nick text’d Jackson...”Television or web now...quick reply.” To which Jackson replied “Me Scood….kiss n kiss.”

     Mister Hopps entered the room waving a paw...”Take your seats everyone. I’ll keep the television on another thirty minutes but we’re not going to dwell all day on this. Not like we can do anything here from the school anyway. You’ve all contacted home right?” Johnathan watched the replies. “Good….good….let me turn this up. Trust me guys, my own wife is hopping around like crazy trying to figure out how to stuff the kids in the furniture crevasses.

ZNN News
Anchor’s Cynthia Cougar and Paul Walla (Coala)

Cynthia: Gentle-mammals...we are continuing our coverage of an apparent engagement at sea between an unknown number of Kzinti warships and the Zootopian destroyer Gnu York. This situation occurred less than 25 minutes ago in the Western Sea about 140 miles East of Sahara Square. Information coming to our network is at the moment is very confused, none of it yet verified by authorities, we will give you what we know at this moment. Apparently, one of our medium size fishing vessels...name not released to us at the moment...came under fire from a number of Kzinti surface ships and the Gnu York opened fire. We have no information if this skirmish is ongoing. We are awaiting something official from the Defense Department or the Navy Department. Paul? You have some information to pass concerning the military?

Paul: Yes Cynthia….all members of the following Navy and Marine Corps units are to report without delay to their commands. To expedite the movement of our Marines and Sailors, the Zootopia Police Department is clearing all roads to all military installations and the ZMTA system is waving all fees and clearing some trains and buses for use as military shuttles.

All members if the 1st Fleet Marine heavy division are to report to their bases without delay…

All crew members of the following warships are to report to their commands without delay….The Destroyers Savana, Growler, Tundra, Rain and Sahara. The 1st Fleet Marine assault force command ship the ZNAC Deerbrook Borough. The Fleet Marine Assault Ship ZNAS Seyoni...

“Son of a birch.” A tiger snarled next to Jackson. “These bastards have gone way too far now.”

“My cousin’s on the Gnu York.” A fox said with a cringe. “If they’re taking on a fleet of those monsters by themselves?”

“I seriously doubt that.” Albert said as he sat on Jackson’s desk. “You forget we have armed underwater drones with “Long Lance” torpedoes that could blow one of their ships in half. Besides, our captains aren’t going to be that daring.”

The Fox huffed. “This coming from a mouse with no skin in the game.”

Albert coolly replied. “How I beg to differ my friend. Does it occur to you that even a near miss close to Rodentia would slaughter hundreds of mice? I would prefer we try to avoid a war thank you?”

Jackson pointed back to the television…..”Guys? Shhhhhh...”

Cynthia: We have some updated information now gentle-mammals which was forwarded to us from fleet headquarters… apparently the engagement ended rather quickly after it had begun. The Gnu York drove off the Kzinti warships. There were no casualties on both sides and no hits were taken by our fishing vessel, the Gnu York or the Kzinti. We are expecting a short informational news conference to begin in a few minute with Admiral Don Karnage or a Navy spokes-mammal. Once again to repeat what we’ve been told by the Navy….no reports of casualties, no injuries or fatalities, the Kzinti were driven off. I would guess this is the best outcome one could hope for Paul?

Paul: Yes….it’s been the policy of the Mayor and the City counsel to avoid conflict at all costs and for this to be done and over so rapidly and let me emphasize it’s been only 30 minutes since this all started my friends and by all means it could get hot again very quickly but right now? Let us all count our blessings while we have them. Obviously for the Gnu York to come out unscathed speaks to the professionalism of the citizens who crew these warships of ours.

Cynthia: The Gnu York of course is a Zootopia class destroyer which is a pretty stout and well armed ship, I had the privilege of going out with the “Yorkie” for a few days when I was on assignment and she packs a punch in guns, rockets, torpedoes and technology but the best punch is that of her crew, great bunch of mammals out there.

Paul: Excuse me Cynthia, we’ve been informed that the Navy briefing is about to begin. Let’s go to our reporter Gary Gnu at Naval Headquarters now….

Savanna Central
12:30pm
November 24, 2039
Naval Headquarters Public Affairs conference room.

Gary Gnu: Cynthia, Paul. Navy spokes-mammal, Commander Bucky Zell (Bucky from the old Kimba the White Lion series) is coming to the podium now.

Bucky: Good afternoon everybody, I am Commander Zell the Navy public affairs officer. I will read this official statement and then answer some question as long as they relate to the current situation….

   At around 11:30 this morning...the Destroyer Gnu York was on routine patrol in the The Belmish Banks fishing grounds 120 miles East of Sahara Square when she received a call for help from the medium fishing vessel, the MV Good n Plenty, which is out of South Sahara Square.  The MV Good n Plenty reported two Kzinti destroyers approaching her at full speed at which time the Captain of the Gnu York ordered his ship to close range. Gnu York went to battle stations with her primary and secondary guns loaded. At 11:46am...after the Kzinti ships fired on the Good n Plenty...Gnu York returned fire. This began a running engagement that last five minutes with the Kzinti warships retreating for home. No hits were scored on the Good n Plenty, the Gnu York or the Kzinti warships. There were no casualties. The engagement is considered ended. The Good n Plenty under Gnu York’s protection is heading for her home port. That is all the information I have for you at this time. I will now take questions...” 

Reporter 1 (A Ram) : So the Kzinti were driven away. Why didn’t the Gnu York pursue them?

Bucky: Her first priority was to protect the Good n Plenty. Plus it would not have been a smart thing to do. You never know if their retreat was part of a plan to suck the Gnu York into an ambush. The Captain of the Gnu York is Captain Selfridge, he is one of our most able officers.

Reporter 2 (A Moose) : No hits? How many shots did the Gnu York fire?

Bucky: Gnu York fired a total of twenty eight inch rounds from her main guns. The purpose was not to hit the Kzinti but make them aware a warship was close by so they would turn their attention from the Good n Plenty. No hits with the Kzinti running with their tails between their rumps is still a great outcome. Trust me, if we wanted to make steel Swiss Cheese? We could have easily done it.

Reporter 3 (Gary Gnu) Commander...Gary Gnu here from ZNN. Will this incident lead to more aggressive actions by the Navy? Do you see perhaps changes in posturing?

Bucky: Too early to say Gary but we’ll closely review this situation and make changes and adaptations as needs require. That’s all I have for you at this moment. We will keep you informed in case new information warrants it. Thank you for coming.

Gary Gnu: Cynthia...Paul….that was short and to the point enough I would think, though I don’t think the Navy would call this in any way a victory, they at least saved one of our fishing vessels from becoming a dinner specialty...being honest. The question now is...what do we see next since this is obviously in this reporter’s mind a clear escalation….

“Click”

    Mister Hopps turned off the television. “Alright...please finish up your texting students. At least for now it seems the situation is under control. Your purpose here right now is to learn your trade so you can put it to use out there so ships like the Gnu York can continue to throw big heavy shells….excuse me….up the dirty tail holes of some mangy Kzinti hides...and that is being gentle.”

    The class clapped and laughed back and were soon back to hitting their books once more.

Sahara Square
3pm
November 24, 2039
The Crawler Bar n Grill

       Judy leaped from her police cruiser and met Officer Brickton (A Rhino) outside the doors of the Crawler which were blocked off with yellow police tape.

       “What do we have officer? I guess national emergencies never stop the job of law enforcement, do they?” Judy said as she followed Brickton into the small bar where a victim lied under a white sheet.

         “The Elephant here stumbled into the bar between two and two fifteen Chief. We’re checking the bar camera for the exact time. Bar tender says he came up to the bar looking like he was in distress and then...WHAM...dead.” Officer Brickton said as he pulled the white sheet back.

         “Old boy was shot in the back three times with a heavy caliber weapon, maybe a 44 or a 357 magnum judging by the caves they cut into his back.” Brickton said.

        “Any I.D.?” Judy asked as she looked around the bar. “Has homicide been called yet?”

        “Fritz was called. He said he will be here after he finishes with another case in Tundra Town. Another case of lemmings doing headers into some freezing water some place. As if that’s anything new?” Brickton said as he gave Judy the dead elephant’s wallet.

      Judy looked at the license and cards as she waved the bar tender over...”His name was Peter Pastel. Sir? Does he come here often?” Judy asked the sheep.

      “No mam.” Replied the sheep. “First I ever saw the guy. I didn’t know he was shot until he keeled over dead.”

       Judy gave the wallet back to Brickton. “Run through this with me. Where were you when he came in? Did he say anything at all?”

        The bartender went through his paces as Judy pulled out her recorder pen and pressed the button…

       “So...I was behind the bar cleaning glasses.” The sheep said. “Watching the news like probably everyone in the city and this guy comes through the door and stands at the bar. I thought maybe he wanted an afternoon “sipper” so I asked him what he’d like. He didn’t answer me and that’s when I realized he was in some sort of distress. He used his trunk to rifle through the garnish dishes for our mix drinks, I don’t know why but I left the bar exactly as he left it before he flopped onto the floor.”

      Judy raised her arms. “Could you be so kind?”

      “Of course.” The bar tender replied as he picked Judy up and set her on the bar where she looked at the disturbed scene of the garnish plates and pulled out her cell phone…

      “Brickton? Have you taken any pictures of the scene yet?” Judy asked as she stood taking pictures of the bar top and the shrouded body.

      “No Chief. I’m just standing here to preserve the scene for Fritz. Did you want me too?” Brickton asked.

      “No need. You’re fine.” Judy replied. “I just sent some things to Fritz’s phone. I’m going to send it back to Benji…..” Judy smiled and chuckled for a moment. “Can you believe that? I still think Benji’s at the front desk?”

      “Who doesn’t.” Brickton replied. “Two days after he retired? Me and Officer Leaps brought two boxes of doughnuts to the desk. His niece got a kick out of it and said she passed them on.”

        Judy phoned Officer Paige Clawhauser….”Good Afternoon Paige, this is Chief Wilde.”

        “Afternoon Mam!” Paige said in a buoyant voice. “At the moment, I’m entertaining an adorable little wolf cub who thinks I’m a better jungle gym.”

       Judy giggled back. “Do you have time for some serious work?”

       “What do you have for me?” Paige replied.

       “I want you to run a name and identification of a GS casualty. Find acquaintances, occupation, basic case file opener information. When you’re finished? Forward the file to Captain Katz at Homicide. There’s going to be pictures of the bar top from the crime location. Mark those as “special interest” for him also.” Judy said.

       “Sure thing.” Paige replied. “I’ll get that done...oof!...where do these cubs get their energy?! Officer Snaps! Come here and get your son!”

        Judy giggled as she ended the call and just as quick a call came in from Fritz Katz….

      “Hey Chief.” Fritz said. “I’m done with the Lemming case and I’m on my way to you.”

       “I sent some things to Paige…..Officer Clawhauser….sheesh Fritz….It’s so strange I still think of Benji being there.” Judy said as she started walking out to her cruiser.

      “It’s alright Chief.” fritz replied. “I think she’s a great replacement. Took some adjustment to my morning routine since she’s such a stickler for health foods. Normally I’d give Benjie a nice pastry from the Yogi-Boob shop but she likes to have “Kind” bars and veggie shakes. Took me days to find a “Yipster” store that opens that early. Have to butter her to my side you know so I get preference and priority in speedy case creation.”

      “I’m sure she doesn’t need your “buttering” Fritz. And be more careful with her please? She might take offense to your usual practices and I wouldn’t want her Uncle getting angry that you upset her. I’ve seen Benji once in protection mode and he’s stronger than he lets on.”

     “Right now Chief? He’s probably laying on the beach purring to Gazelle.” Fritz replied. “I’ll see you at the station.”

Sahara Square
5pm
November 24, 2039
Jackson’s apartment in Savanna Central

       Jackson came into the apartment with Albert and Myler on his shoulders and the aroma of cooking food blasted him in the face…

      Whitney and Gilly were half dancing and half prepping food on the counter as Jackson dropped bags on the dinner table. “I didn’t think we were going to cook tonight?”

     “You didn’t order anything did you?” Gilly asked.

      “Nope. Just brought some chocolate wine, some cheese for the guests and some Sheep-poro beer.” Jackson replied.

      “You got Sheep-poro?” Kerdle asked as he came out of the bathroom wrapped in a towel and rubbing his head with another one. “You are so the dawg. Or fox. Or half and half….”

       Jackson placed Albert and Myler on the table. “You guys want me to make you a plate of cheese and greens?”

        “Splendid.” Albert replied. “Pour me a glass of wine please?”

         Myler gestured. “I’d try some “Sheep-poro” When someone opens a bottle.”

         “Just had to ask.” Jackson replied as he pulled a bottle from the twelve pack, popped off the cap and gave Myler a thimble sized cup. “Anything on the TV? Anything new?”

         “Not really.” Kerdle replied. “They toned down the alerts and the Good n Plenty entered port a few minutes ago. I hope I get assigned to the Gnu York, they showed those tail holes what for.”

         “I doubt the demonstration will be enough to deter the Kzinti.” Albert said as he took a sip of wine and chewed on a cheese slice. “This was probably an educational probe for them. Judging by the reports that have come out to the media, the Kzinti didn’t fire that many rounds and they basically “rope n doped” around the water. It’s a tactic Alfred Mayhoof speaks about in his writings.”

        Myler snickered...”Why are you an enlisted stiff? Sheesh Albert, you should be running the Navy.”

       “Every Sailor should be a disciple of Mayhoof.” Albert replied. “If we’re going to be Sailors then let’s be as smart as we can. Obviously the Captain of the Gnu York was smart enough not to be suckered into chasing those ships.”

        Whitney huffed as she dropped a plate of hot finger food tailored to all the room mates on the table...”Blah, blah, blah….can we leave the Navy for  Navy “on-time” ? I want to eat then get a wheel run in before sleep.”

         “Here, here.” Kerdle replied as he took a fish popper and plopped it into his mouth...”Anyone up to getting their tail kicked in spades?”

         Gilly replied. “Combatives?”

          “Yeah.” Kerdle said. “I got two full sets of padding I rented from the gym? We can suit up and kick the snit out of each other in the park across the street. You gain?”

         “Oh yeah.” Gilly replied. “Always eager to wreck fox tail. I was pretty good in boot.”

         “Pretty under-whelming.” Jackson snickered.

         “Oh fluck you Jackie.” Gilly snorted back as he rubbed Jackie’s head.

         Whitney flopped onto the couch with her food plate and popped the top off a bottle of Sheep-poro. “Who’s up for Saturday on Sahara Strip?”

          “I have duty weekend.” Jackson said. “Guess where?”

         “Gate duty.” Kerdle said.

         “Anti-perv watch at the female barracks.” Gilly snorted. “Did you hear about that snit? Some dirt bag placed a fur-go cam in the female shower room.”

         Whitney snapped. “Are you kidding me?!”

         “Nope.” Gilly replied. “Investigations is working on it. They think it was a civilian contractor but they’re not sure yet.”

          Albert raised a paw. “The purloiner should be duly and swiftly triced up by his genitalia and a force sufficiently applied to deprive him of his mammal-hood.”

          Everyone gave Albert a double take…..

          “Yes….I said he should hang by his nuts and beaten with a base ball bat. The simple layman explanation for you all with insufficient I.Q.”
  
          Everyone busted their gut laughing…..”Damn!” Kerdle said. “I thought you were boring Albert…..damn!”

          “I’d hate to see him try to write a porno fiction.” Kerdle giggled.

          “How about a short recitation for even more hilarity?” Albert said so calm and strait laced that Whitney blew beer from her nose!

          “Ouch! Oh you little snit head!” She yelped as she held her snoot. “Dick!”

         “No….my name is Albert Eddington Trundle, at least get that correct?” Albert replied. “But in all seriousness, that is disturbing. You would want to believe that such mammals would never disgrace females in such a debased manor. And just to be fair? It could as easily be a female doing it.”

        Jackson sighed. “If it were true that all mammals could somehow be perfect and upstanding? then we wouldn’t have fox trading would we? My parents did that investigation for years, trapping complete tail wipe rags who peddled young foxes as naked neck adornments and sex toys. That just makes me so upset. Worse that foxes are even involved in being pushers.”

          Gilly turned his head from the kitchen….”You’re Dad? You’re dad ran that busting sting years ago didn’t he? Now…..now don’t kill me ok Jackie? But you’re going to...your dad...looked dead sexy….in a mini skirt.” (An Ode to Vic Mignogna)

          Jackson laughed and shook his head with his paw across his eyes. “My cub-hood was destroyed. The image of my dad in a dress and pumps is singed into my brain.”

         Everyone laughed….”It’s not funny! You see your father in a blue dress and panties and think you don’t come out confused!” Jackson yelped then lost it as he laughed himself to wet pants...”Oh fluck you guys! Damn!” Jackson ran into the bathroom and moments later came out with a towel around his waist while his room mates were still laughing…

        “Very funny Tail plungers.” Jackson snorted. “I’ll have you know that my parents still hold the department record for the most busts in a single year, including a precinct Chief who was a serious dirt bag.”

         “Didn’t I see your dad on the cover of “Thugs and Jugs”? Kerdle asked.

         “Oh….fluck you and your horse?” Jackson snapped back. “Now that my evening had been wrecked? I will partake in combatives and we’ll soon be looking for another fox and bunny as room mates.”

           Kerdle snickered back. “I’ll even dress in drag to make it a fair fight for you. So? What duty did you pull?”

          Jackson sighed….”Dogs.”

          “Do what?” Kerdle asked.

          “I’ve been assigned to…the police dog kennel.” Jackson replied.

          Whitney chuckled...”Are you serious? You’re part bunny and part fox and you’ve been assigned to the police dog kennel? Oh you poor thing.”

           “Chew toy.” Gilly chuckled.

            “Steak um bait.” Kerdle snickered.

            “Tooth teething device.” Albert said plainly.

           “Look at my face guys?” Jackson asked. “Do I look totally enthused right now? I mean...what do I know about handling dogs?”

           “You’re not going there to handle the dogs.” Kerdle replied. “You are there to be “maw handled” by them. Good luck dude.”

Sahara Square Naval Installation
7pm
November 24, 2039
ZNDG Gnu York docked at pier one.

      Captain Selfridge, a small team of his tactical officers and Admiral Don Karnage sat together in the Combat Information Center of the Gnu York and reviewed both the recorded information from the short engagement on the big VDI information boards and the photos crewmen took their opportunity to snap from their cell phones….when they weren’t taking cover or shooting back…

       “Just as big as our ships.” Don Karnage remarked as he looked at the photos being shown on a computer screen. “Could you judge the calibers of their main guns?”

      “Eights.” Selfridge replied. “Only they have two guns in double turrets fore and aft. “Secondary guns probably in the lower millimeter range. The closest we closed with each other was a mile off. We had their shots whizzing close and some of the splashes were colored with dye packs which means they used optics for targeting and they’re damn good at it. My guess is they were missing on purpose just as much as we were. A lot of “rope n dope” Sir.”

     Don Karnage scratched his muzzle...”I won’t call this an opening salvo. But it’s definitly the First. We’ve gone from frosty to luke warm in this whole situation between us and them. This was probably a “fishing expedition” for them and who knows what would have happened if they hooked you and had you chasing their tails. We don’t know if they have a submersible fleet like ours.”

     The Admiral stood up and walked up to the VDI screens. “I will brief his honor and recommend we continue policy as set. I do have one question though Captain? Why were you so late in seeing these ships?”

    “We were way out of place Sir.” Selfridge replied. “Over the horizon, curve of the sea, limits our radar efficiency. We could use our UAV drones to extend our radar capability but we were only following procedures set by yourself. No drones to prevent the technology from falling into Kzinti paws and no drones because of risk of undo confrontation.”

      Don Karnage thought for a moment. “No more. Policy is going to change. From now on in our waters, drones will be used to extend radar and detection ranges. I want our ships to see these predators coming before they get the inclinity to attack our ships. I’ll explain that to the Mayor. Early detection and safety over rides technology any day in my book.”

     The Admiral shook Selfridge’s big shoulder….”Good work Selfie...send my compliments to your crew. Take a week off, let em graze and craze.”

    “Thank you Sir.” Selfridge replied with a salute.

ZPD First Precinct “First Prinky”
Downtown Zootopia 
7pm
November 24, 2039

      Judy walked into the Homicide office and strode up to Fritz Katz desk with a folder in her hand…

     “Fritz? I have the prepared Peter Pastel case file from Officer Clawhauser.” Judy said as she held the file up for Fritz to take.

     “Thanks.” Fritz said as he moved off his chair and patted it. “Come up here Judy.”

     “I’m getting old climbing up stuff.” She remarked as she hopped onto the chair then onto the desk. “You’ve been looking at the photos?”

     “Yeah….” Fritz replied. “Especially the counter where he messed with the drink garnish plates before he became a stiff. He managed to drop some olives to his left and some lemons to his right.”

     Judy cocked her head. “A hint?”

     “He certainly had no time for a pen and paper.” Fritz said. “Now the piles themselves don’t spell out anything and I’ve been bouncing the numbers of olives and the numbers of lemon slices. Based on what we have in this packet for background evidence. Maybe there’s a combination we need to look for? Perhaps an anagram or a combination of the numbers and an anagram.”

       Judy foot patted Fritz’s paw...”Go to it master of sleuths.”

       “Go home and please your hubby.” Fritz snickered. “Don’t stay here on my account.”

       Judy smiled back. “How’s the kids? Spike is what, a junior in college?”

       “Yup.” Fritz replied. “He’s taking engineering. He’s now doing field apprentice work with a construction firm out of Tundra Town. Called me last week saying they’re keeping him well employed. Any how….let me get on this stuff chief and see what I brainstorm.”

Savanna Central
6am
November 28, 2039
Naval Education Center, Savanna Sands Naval Base.
Master at Arms compound….dog pens.

       Jackson reported to the front desk. “Seaman Wilde reporting for duty Chief.”

       The Wolf behind the reception window punched a keypad and gestured to the door. “Come on through Seaman.”

       Jackson came through the door and followed the Wolf through the office. “I would imagine you’ve never had experience with a dog there Seaman Wilde?”

       “No Sir.” Jackson replied. “Bunnies don’t do well with dogs and…. well….maybe I’m in double trouble because I’m half fox and half bunny.”

       “Seriously?” The wolf asked. “You don’t look half n half.”

        Jackson opened his mouth to show both his flat bunny teeth and his very sharp canines. “Well...Just don’t show fear there Seaman and you’ll get along just fine with them. We use Malinois dogs because their size is compatible to Sailors your size and because they are exceptionally smart, highly disciplined and they thin out our ranks efficiently...”

      Jackson stopped and frowned.

       “Come on Sailor. You need to be able to absorb a little ribbing every so often. This isn’t your grade school. Trust me, you have nothing to fear from these dogs.”

       Jackson and the Wolf Chief came into a grass covered, fenced in yard where another Wolf and a small dog came out of the row of white “Con-x” boxes at the other end that had been converted to kennels…

      “You Seaman Wilde?” The wolf handler asked. “I’m Petty Officer Dropkicks and this gal is “Mikachu”

      Jackson regarded the small yet obviously muscular dog with a little hesitation. “Why not call her...I dunno….”Brutal-chan” or “Rip-em and Spit-em up-chan”?

      Dropkicks chuckled...”Easy there bunny...”

      “Actully? I’m half n half bunny and fox.” Jackson said to Dropkicks.

      “Wow….talk about a dilemma.” Dropkicks replied as he snapped his paw fingers. “Mikachu?” He then pointed to Jackson...”Comoraden Shuts-haffen!”

      The Malinois approached Jackson which caused him to cringe...”What did you tell her Petty Officer Dropkicks?”

      “Wilde? Relax...” Dropkicks said with a gesture. “She won’t hurt you, she just wants to get used to you...relax before you wet yourself Shipmate or you’ll really be in a world of hurt.”

       The dog sniffed around Jackson, got on its’ hind legs to sniff at his face and ears then sat in front of him just giving him a plain no tongue hanging look…

        “What’s her problem?” Jackson asked.

        Dropkick passed him a dog cookie. “That’s the problem. Give her a cookie and she’ll be good with you.”

         Jackson held the cookie out and with a gentle snap of her teeth...Mikachu took it from him…

        “See?” Dropkicks said. “We use command words only the dog will know, that way in case someone tries to copy the words? Sad day for them. While we’re patrolling over the weekend? I will give her all the commands. You’re armed back up, ticket writer and reporter. There’s much we have to do before we go out and one of them is to give you the experience of being taken down by this land shark, cruise missile with fur, government issue, Delta Zero Gulf one each.”

        “Um?….taken down?” Jackson asked. “What does that mean?”

Minutes later….

      Jackson stood looking like a bizarre stuffed animal covered from head to toe in bite absorbent padding. “Ummm…..are you flucking kidding me?”

      “Everyone goes through it Wilde.” Dropkicks said as he finished cinching up the pads. “You must have complete trust and respect with the dog, that includes having the trust to let her use you as her target. If she senses any fear in you? Not only can that be dangerous? She’ll have no respect for you and she might not feel obligated to protect your cotton tail butt.”

      Jackson took a deep breath...”Can you get it on my cell phone? I want my parents to know how I spent my last moments.”

      “Wilde? Nothing bad is going to happen to you, you won’t feel teeth. You’re going to get a rough ride for sure but don’t panic. I’m right here, she will absolutely follow my orders, I won’t let her hurt you ok?” Dropkick said. “Just don’t give her a weak target. When I tell you? I want you to scream, swear, cuss her out, smack that baseball bat in your hand around, get all big and fricken bad ass but don’t go full swing on her when she charges you.”

      Jackson took a few deep breaths as he watched Dropkicks lead Mekachu to the other end of the enclosure...”Helmet, padding, she’s not a monster dog, can’t be that bad.”

       Dropkicks turned about and put Mekachu in a laying position. “Ok Wilde! Let her know you don’t like her!”

       “That’s what I don’t want!” Jackson replied.

       “WILDE! CUSS THIS BITCH OUT!” Dropkicks snarled. “Let her know your bunny/fox butt hates her rump!”

      Jackson started strutting about and pounding the bat in his paw on the grassy ground...”COME ON! COME ON YOU STUPID DOG! COME GET SOME! COME AND GET ME YOU FLEA RIDDEN PIECE OF...!”

     “GERSHUNDERHOFFEN!” Dropkicks snapped out and the Malinois covered the grass in seconds flat!

      And all Jackson saw was flying teeth! “OH FLUCK ME!” He screamed as he turned to run and….”WHAM!”….the dog hit him with its’ full weight and pounded him into the dirt as she clamped down on a pad and shook him like a rag!

      “AHHHHHH! OH SNIT! OH SNIT! CALL IT OFF ME!” Jackson yelled.

      “AUS! AUS!” Dropkick snapped out. Mekachu must have thought he was joking because she snatched up Jackson by the seat of his butt, carried him up to her handler and spat him out with a “Ptttewy” at Dropkicks feet…

       “Wise rump….Go lay down?” Dropkick commanded as he helped Jackson to his feet. “You ok?” he asked Jackson.

       “Does ok mean I didn’t pee myself or does ok mean I can still talk strait?” Jackson said as he watched the dog get up and come over to snuggle around him…

      “See? She likes you now.” Dropkick said as he pet the dog’s head. “You handled that well Wilde.”

       “Should have gotten some pictures to send to my folks. They would have thought I was insane.” Jackson said as he started pulling the pad suit off. 

       “Hurry up and put that suit away.” Dropkick said. “We’ll run Mekachu through some paces out here then we’ll go over some things and start out on patrol.”

       “Cool.” Jackson replied.

Savanna Central
10am
November 28, 2039
Naval Education Center, Savanna Sands Naval Base.
Free time at the hands on lab room. The “tron” school. 

    Gilly, Keble and Whitney stood around observing the electronic checking device Keble was working in his paws while deep inside the power bank box, Albert and Myler were roaming through the maze of wires, bundle lines, circuits, resistors and other parts within the unit dressed from head to toe in special rubber suits made to protect them from voltage and static shock. Though some of the circuit breakers were switched to “OFF”, others were still energized and one wrong move would turn a mouse into a pile of powder in a split second…

    Albert was letting Myler do all the reading as he knew only by experience could  his friend overcome the dyslexia he was suffering from…

    “What’s the next circuit run we need to check on the print?” Albert asked. He waited patiently for a moment...”Take your time “My My” we have all morning.”

     “Three…...Alpha…..Twelve….” Myler replied.

     “You’re sure?” Albert asked.

      “Yes.” Myler answered back.

      “Good. You’re sounding more confident today.” Albert replied as he looked at each circuit card bank they passed. The hum of electricity had Myler nervous…

      “This….this humming stuff’s making my legs shake.” Myler said as he played with his lips.

     “We’ll be fine.” Albert replied. “Just don’t panic and start scurrying off. Come here.” Albert said as he put out his paw. “Come on Myler...we’re not dating.”

      Each mouse carried a volt checking probe with a line running to Keble’s checking box. One thing to be a fox, another to be a mouse running around what could be explained as a “Journey to the Center of the Earth” kind of experience. A few feet equaled for a mouse a city block.

        Albert clicked on his hand microphone. “Are we worried about lunch?” he asked Whitney.

       “We can eat back in the apartment, keep going.” She replied. “Anyone else need lunch?”

       “I think we’re all good.” Gilly said smiling.

        “Ok...we’ve reached another target circuit.” Albert’s voice sounded.    “Three…...Alpha…..Twelve….testing now.”

       Inside….Albert and Myler touched their probes to the circuit card and waited for the call back…

      “Yup…..dead dee dead dead.” Keble said through the radio.

       “Ok then.” Albert replied. “Shut the whole box down. We’ll pull this card, bring it out, do the paper work and send the requisition for a replacement.”

        Myler flopped back on his rump and sighed...”Uh….that was difficult.”

        “You had no problem with it. Just nerves, you’re doing fine.” Albert said as he pulled the pack of tools off his back. “Let’s get this card unscrewed and off so we can get out of here.”

Downtown Zootopia 
noon
November 28, 2039
Barnyard and Zoo-philes rare Collectibles shop.

      The front door all but turned into splinters as a bull Rhino crashed through it followed by a big polar bear and a small bunny wearing police tactical gear. The Gazelle at the receiving end of this violence had no time to react as the Rhino snatched him by an arm and slammed him to the floor!

     Zootopia SWAT! You’re under arrest!” SWAT officer Aaron snapped as he pulled a pair of zip tie cuffs and secured the shocked Gazelle’s arms…

      “Kurt? Sammy? Sweep the place. Scene secure.” Ajax said into his shoulder radio as Judy came through the broken door with Fritz Katz behind her…

        “Paul Jenkins?” Judy said. “You are under arrest for the murder of Mister Peter Pastel. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you in the court of law. You have the right to a lawyer. If you can’t afford a lawyer, one will be provided to you. Do you understand these rights?” Judy asked.

        “I didn’t kill anyone!” Jenkins snapped. 

        “Want to keep flapping those Gazelle lips there pal or do you want to come clean? Did you really think you’d get away with this? Before he died, Pastel made it clear who the killer was.” Judy turned to Fritz. “Care to explain it to him?”

       Fritz walked up to Jenkins and showed him a photo of the bar top from the murder scene. “Olives to the left….lemons to the right. Drink garnishes. Only in bar speak the lemons are usually called “a twist”. Olive…..Twist…..Oliver Twist. Written by Charles Deer-kins. And you my friend are well known for being in-satiated with all things Deer-kins. Considered around here to be an efficient expert.”

     Judy walked up waving her carrot pen….”You see….Mister Jenkins. Mister Pastel was the owner of a strip mall in Sahara Square and it seems you and him had quite a nasty argument over your lease agreement for your outlet store. Two witnesses saw you both arguing and we got that argument on several cameras. It got so heated that you threatened to “ventilate” Mister Pastel if he dared raise your rent. Which he did. So you snuck up behind him as he was coming home and you shot him with a 357 magnum.”

     Judy pressed up to Paul and pointed. “Where’s the gun Paul?”

     Meanwhile….Kert pointed Sammy to the ceiling. “Gimme a boost will you?”

     Sammy reached up, ripped off the vent cover and lifted the bunny into the vent. Moments later….Kert dangled a revolver out the vent opening by it’s snap flap...”Vollah! One Snarl and Claw 357 Special!”

     Judy turned back to Paul and pointed. “You just happen to store your guns inside an air vent? Come clean Paul or keep your lips shut. If you keep denying this and you’re found guilty? It’s the death penalty. You opportunity to hedge your bets right here, right now.”

       “Yes…..yes….I killed him. I killed him and that’s the gun.” Paul replied as Judy gestured to the door….

        “Stuff em.” She said with a sound of sadness. “Why do some mammals resort to such stupid acts? He threw away a whole life worth of achievements because of a petty stupid grudge over money.”

         “It always baffles me too.” Fritz said as he patted Judy’s back. “How ever? Swift work on this case Chief. You don’t ever lose your touch do you?”    

Savanna Central
3pm
November 28, 2039
Naval Education Center, Savanna Sands Naval Base.
Jackson Wilde on roving dog patrol.

       Jackson threw the ball again as hard as he could and Mekachu tore across the ground and into the bushes to retrieve it. She gave him the ball and returned to dutifully walking aside him…

       “Does she ever get tired?” Jackson asked Dropkicks.

       “That’s the thing about “Mallys’” they’re high energy dogs who have to be challenged constantly or they become agitated. Normally this is all I do on duty is exercise her….or she runs me crazy. Usually we don’t have any problems...save mammals who jump the fence for some ridiculous reason.”

        Jackson smiled as he patted Mekachu. “I never thought I’d put on a police belt. Both my parents are cops….well….my Mother is still a cop, my Father’s retired.”

       “You could have struck for Master at Arms. We end up with a lot of our guys being in the ZPD or the Mass Transit Security Force.” Dropkick remarked.

       “I decided to go a different direction.” Jackson replied. “My parents aren’t disappointed at all. What about you?”
  
         “I’ll stick another four years and get out for the ZPD. Though I’m a little sad they don’t employ dogs.” Dropkick replied.

        “They have wolves.” Jackson replied. “I mean seriously? Why would you need a dog when a wolf is bigger and more intimidating?”

       “How many wolves in the ZPD do you know use their choppers to take down suspects?” Dropkick replied. “There’s also a high rate of displacia events with wolf cops. You’ve lived around the ZPD, thought you’d hear more about that?”

       Suddenly...Mekachu came to a stop and sat growling with her nose pointed towards a parking lot near a barracks building…

       Jackson dropped to a knee...”She’s got something?”

       “Yeah...” Dropkick snorted. “And I have a good idea what it is too. These kids never learn.”

        “Kids?” Jackson asked.

        “Yup...” Dropkick snickered. “You want to see some little punks run right out of their underpants?”

          Dropkick knelt down and whispered to Mekachu….”Aus Vinder Kin Sloss.”

          The Malinois slowly trotted off towards the parking lot as dropkick stood smiling…

         “What did you tell her?” Jackson asked.

         “Just to say hello...” Dropkick replied as they watched the dog turn a corner and then they winced as she exploded in snarls and barks!”

        “AAAAAAAAAHHHHH!” The high pitched screaming of what sounded like juveniles filled the air as Jackson and Dropkick took off running for where Mekachu was by now tearing teeth into tails...cept she didn’t…

       “I knew it! You little snits again?! Don’t you learn?” Dropkick huffed as he snagged the older of two dark gray lion cubs by his scruff. A door “jimmy” bar fell from his paw.

       “Keralu Mauldi you little snit bag. This time I’m feeding you to my dog!” Dropkick snapped as he wrangled Keralu and dangled his precious tail for Mekachu to snatch a hold of...”

        “NO! NO PLEASE! IT WAS NINJI’S FAULT!” The wiggling young teen cub yelped as he pointed…

        “OH YOU ARE SUCH A BULL SNIT ARTIST!” The younger Ninji snarled. “IT WAS ALL HIS IDEA!”

       “I don’t care WHO came up with the idea!” Dropkick snapped. “Seaman Wilde? Put these little bastards on the ground and cuff em!”

       “Why?!” Keralu snapped. “My father will bail us out! I’ll have your paycheck you jerk!”

       “You could be the son of an Admiral and you’ll still be sitting in a cell won’t you?” Dropkick snapped back. “Or maybe my dog would enjoy a nice side of lion ham hock after all?”

        Dropkick gestured to Keralu’s rump and Mekachu clamped on it with her teeth! Not trying to puncture the flesh….just enough to make the miscreant cub cry.” Now? We’re going to just dispense with calling your parents and keep you in  in our jail cells for couple of days where you’ll get to experience the wonderful bread and water cuisine and fine comfort of four walls and a cot. And just because you’re the Commanding Officer’s brat my dear sand box scratch’r doesn’t mean you get any ranks and privileges.” Dropkick turned to Jackson. “Got this all written down in the charge book Wilde? Put these little fools in the car?”

      “Yes.” Jackson replied as he took hold of Keralu. “Walk...”

       Keralu turned his head and tried to nip Jackson on the ear! “Stupid rabbit!”

       Jackson kicked the feet out from under Keralu, gave him a swift side fist to his stomach and planted his face into the concrete…

       “This “stupid Rabbit” sure learned a lot of tricks from his police cop parents. If I were you? I’d cool my attitude there dumb hump.” Jackson said as he dragged Keralu to the patrol car and threw him in the back!

       Ninji seemed to be a quick learner...though not a smart follower. He cringed and cowarded as he passed Jackson and climbed into the cruiser.

      Dropkick leashed Mekachu and walked up to Jackson. “You sure you don’t want to change rates there Seaman? You and Mekachu might work well together?”

      Jackson smirked in reply. “I’d like my fur to remain on me as long as possible.” 

Rain Forest District
4pm
November 28, 2039
Home of Gordon and Grace Gray (Gray Wolves)

Author’s note: You need to read the “Sheath and Knife” comics by Harmarist to understand Will and Alex.

      “Hi Mom!” Alexander “Alex” Gray (15 years old) yelped as he came running into the kitchen after the wafting smell of k-9 cookies hit him in the snoot….

      And just as quick...Grace hit his paw with a wooden spoon when he reached for the pan…

     “Yie! Yie! Yie!” Alex cried as he pulled his paw back and whimpered. His older brother William “Will” Gray (18 years old) entered the kitchen and bopped his little brother on the head…

     “You should know better by now.” Will said smiling as he gave his mother a kiss. “May I have a cookie mother?”

      “No….you may not because you stink of motor oil.” Grace replied. “Get cleaned up you filthy thing?”

       “Hah!” Alex yelped! “Take that big brother!”

        Grace looked at Alex. “You stink worse. Both of you go take a shower or a bath before dinner?” Grace ordered. “And by the way? Your father and I have got permission to farm you two off to your Uncle Chancy for a few days.”

        “OH SWEET!” Alex yelped! “COOL! GRRRRR…..GRRRRR….. MARINES!” The young cub growled as he ran off to get to the bathroom before his older brother…

        “Seriously?” Will sighed. “And mom? Get it right? You’re farming Alex off on me not Uncle Chance?”

         “William?” Grace replied. “It’s been a year since we’ve seen Chancy, he’s so busy these days. And your father and I need time with each other, you should understand that?”

          Will sighed….”I know mom...I guess I’m just not on Alex’s excitement level. He’s get so spastic about the Marines, he eats and sleeps Marines and I’m the one who has to bear the brunt of his “spazing out”. Don’t I deserve me time too?”

        “You’re not being shackled down William. I’m sure Chancy understands that you have your own life to live. You can go by yourself all over the city, we’re not going to stop you.” Grace said.

        “Then if I don’t spend time with Uncle Chancy, I’ll feel guilty.” William said with a deep sigh. “I promise I will bear the unbearable spasticity of my daring little brother….for you mom.”

         Grace popped a pair of cookies in Will’s mouth. “That’s my good boy. Now go get cleaned up for dinner you dirty cub. Your father will be home in fifteen minutes.”

       Will walked up the stairs to the second floor where he could already hear Alex splashing around in the bathroom shower singing himself silly…

“From the maws of Tootha….zillia to the shores of Frisky Treat...”

“We will fight Zootopia’s battles on the air, the land and sea...”

“First to fight for heard and freedom.”

“With teeth and claw pristine.”

“We are proud to claim the title of Zootopia’s Fleet Marines.”

       Will just walked into the bathroom and started pee’ing in the toilet… “HEY YOU FART KNOCKER!” Alex yelped as he threw his soap sud’d wash towel at Will’s face. “GET OUT AND WAIT!”

      Will threw the towel back. “SHUT UP SNOT!” He snarled.

      Alex lathered himself without a care...”Isn’t it cool big bro? We’re going to see Uncle “Chank” at Quanaco for a change! I hope we get to ride on a tank! Maybe he’ll take us to the shooting range and I can pop off a few rounds? Maybe I can chuck a stick grenade...yeah…...BAAA BOOM!”

      “What ever floats your furry little dink there kid.” Will replied. “I’m not spending the whole time in the city watching a day long commercial add.” Will replied as Alex rinsed himself with the hand sprayer…

      “What’s up with you Will?” Alex yelped. “Don’t you want to see Uncle? It’s not like we see him every day you know?”

      “I know Alex...I want to see Uncle Chancy very much. It’s just that I’m not interested in spending the whole time on the base while we’re there. You’re all excited for it so you have all the fun you want ok? Now are you done washing because I want to get clean before Dad comes home.” Will stood thumping a foot waiting as Alex dried himself…

    “What’s wrong with you Will?” Alex asked. “We used to spend a lot of quality time with each other. It’s like since you turned 18? You’re doing all you can to avoid me like I have cancer or something.”

     Will started taking his clothes off….”I am not avoiding you Alex. It’s called… I’m 18 and graduated and your 15 and in school still. Enjoy your next three years because the world’s going to come dragging you out of bed soon enough.”

     Alex snorted back...”It’s probably because I’m not cute and small any more.”

     “What the fluck?” Will snapped. “Get back here?” He commanded.

     Alex turned at the door to the bathroom. “Truth hurts huh?”

     “That’s not it Alex.” Will replied. “I told you...I’m not into the things that you are ok? I’m not all out for the “hump two, three four” stuff. That’s why I don’t think I should have to spend my whole time there. It has nothing to do with “us”… “U ME” Will gestured. Don’t get it twisted.”

       Alex snorted back...”Sheesh….if you’re gonna flucken lie and hurt my feelings Will? At least learn how to do it right!”

       Alex stormed from the door and slammed his bedroom door shut before Will got into the hall way….

      “Ugh! Damn that kid.” Will yelped with a grimace.

      “I’m not a kid anymore you flucken tail hole!” Alex yelped from his room.

Sahara Square
7pm
November 28, 2039
Jackson’s apartment in Savanna Central

      Jackson didn’t stop once he came through the door of the apartment. He passed by the others enjoying a round of spades, threw his duty belt on the couch, walk stripped himself down to his underwear and flopped onto his bed where he reached around to pull the white cotton thin sheet over himself…

     Gilly walked up to the bed, sat down and petted Jackson’s head...”Long day of duty huh?”

     “You handle a high strung dog all day and see if you feel better.” Jackson replied. “Wow…she didn’t stop from like 9 to 6.”

      Gilly pulled the sheet back...”No bites, nothing missing, you still have your puffy tail attached to your tush..”

     Jackson swatted at him...”Don’t….leave me…..me tired…..sleep.”

     Whitney walked up and knelt down. “Did you have to go through bite training?”

     “Yeah...” Jackson replied sounding exhausted. “I spent half the day being a chew toy.” He turned his head a little sideways...”Any one have a problem with me having the apartment next weekend for two days? Darla is getting a school break.”

      “Absolutely not.” Whitney replied. “Anyone got any problems?”

       Everyone replied with no problems...”Good...” Jackson said. “Now lemme sleep? I have to be up at 5am to be chewed again.”

end of chapter 11