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The 1st Precinct of the Zootopia Police Department was unusually quiet this morning. Where once there had been the usual background noise and officers going to and fro, there was only silence now. Every officer that morning had formed two separate lines; one on the left side of the entry way, the other on the right. The mood was solemn, for this was no ordinary day in the department. Officers looked across the line they were in to the other line. Chief Bogo, the no-nonsense, gruff, and often times irritable head of the Zootopia Police Department stood in the very back and center of the lines. He narrowed his eyes, seeing a figure walking towards the building.

"Every one stand at attention!" ordered the Cape Buffalo.

Instantly, backs were straightened, shoulders pushed back and facial expressions turned stoic as the figure put his paws on the door and walked in. As the figure walked through the lines, every officer saluted as he passed them, finally making his way up to Chief Bogo and stopping.

"Officer Jack Wolfard reporting for duty, chief!" said the wolf as he saluted the head of the department.

Chief Bogo looked around the room, and quite uncharacteristically of him, smiled as he addressed the entire precinct.

"Don't just stand there, give him a round of applause!"

Not only did Jack Wolfard receive applause, there was shouting, screaming, hooting and hollering as his fellow officers grabbed hold of him and raised him up.

'Let's hear it for the best cop in the entire department!" yelled Chief Bogo.

"Hip, hip, hooray! Hip, hip, hooray! Hip, hip, hooray!"

Jack laughed hysterically as he was made to crowd surf through the throngs of officers carrying him. Finally he was put back down on his feet in front of Chief Bogo, who had more he wanted to say to the wolf.

"Good to have you back, Jack," said Bogo, shaking the wolf's paw.

"It's good to be back, Chief," said Jack as Nick Wilde came up and gave his partner a huge bear hug.

"There's my partner!" exclaimed the fox.

Jack smacked his partner on the back several times as he was overjoyed to not only be back on the job, but also to be back with his partner and best friend, Nick Wilde. Jack, who had sustained a terrible abdominal injury from a gunshot when he had unknowingly stumbled onto a robbery in progress at Zootopia City Bank, had spent the past six weeks in the hospital and two more weeks at home resting. The wolf had been barely clinging to life when paramedics were finally able to administer care to him. He'd been in a coma after completing surgery and not even the doctors could guarantee that he would come out of it, but Nick knew better than that. Every night after his shift, the fox would come down to the hospital, talking to the unconscious wolf, telling him everything would be okay, that he would be out on the streets before he knew it. Nick didn't mind that he had been proven right.

"I told you you'd make it, Jackie boy," said Nick. "You know what the first thing you said was when you woke up?"

"Yeah," said Jack. "I saw you sitting there and I asked you if I'd missed the wedding--sure glad I didn't!"

As the roaring and clapping gradually subsided, Chief Bogo decided to address the precinct once more.

"Alright, you lot, settle down," he said, then faced Officer Wolfard. "Jack, I have a couple things I'd like to present to you before we start the shift." Bogo reached into his pocket and pulled out a brass medal with a blue ribbon around it.

"Officer Wolfard, in recognition for your service to this department, and in honor of your heroism while on duty, I'm pleased to present you with Zootopia Police Department's highest honor, the Distinguished Service Star!"

Everyone present again erupted into cheers and applause as Chief Bogo put the medal around Jack's neck and shook his paw. Nick shook his partner's paw as he appeared to be in shock from receiving such recognition. Wolfard, like most officers on the force, knew that such an award was most often received posthumously. He was glad to be receiving it while still alive.

"Now, there's one more thing I'd like to give you that I think you've really been looking forward to." Bogo looked over at Nick. "Officer Wilde?"

"Yes, sir?"

"Don't just stand there. You're getting something, too."

Nick went over to stand next to Jack. Again reaching into his pocket, the Chief pulled out two small boxes and gave one to Jack and the other to Nick.

"You've earned it," said Bogo. "Wilde, consider this an early wedding present."

Nick and Jack looked at each other before carefully pulling the lids off the boxes. What Nick and Jack beheld inside made their eyes light up.

"A . . . a gold shield!" said Jack

"Me too!" exclaimed Nick.

Bogo offered a congratulatory paw. "Well done, Detective Wolfard and Detective Wilde."

Jack had passed the detective's test a week before he had been shot, but the results of the exam had not yet been posted. Being in the hospital clinging to his life, the wolf had not really concerned himself with whether or not he had made detective. Nick was a different story altogether. Having much less time on the job than his partner, Nick had no expectations of being promoted to detective anytime in the near future; in fact, he had not even taken the test to be promoted. There were--under certain circumstances--occasions where officers could receive a promotion without taking an exam. Chief Bogo must have thought enough of Nick's skills to make him a detective.

"Thank you, sir," said Nick to the Cape Buffalo. "I won't let you down."

Bogo glared at him. "See that you don't, Wilde."

Judy came up from behind Nick and threw her arms around him. "Oh, my handsome fox is going to be a detective!"

Nick turned around and the two embraced in a kiss. Not wasting an opportunity to once more applaud a special occasion, the officers present now erupted in "oohs" and "aaws" at the site of the two lovers.

"Knock it off," growled Bogo. "Don't make me turn the hose on you two."

Nick and Judy did as they were told, ceasing their kiss, they instead gave the chief a smug look of satisfaction. Grumbling and shaking his head, Chief Bogo and the rest of the cops walked off to their respective posts; ready to begin their shifts.

"Are you ready for the meeting with Dr. Schwartz today, Nick?" asked Judy as they walked around the precinct building.

"You bet," said Nick. "Though I am worried about what the test results will be, and then we have dinner over at my Dad's house tonight--gonna be a busy day for sure."

"Then the wedding next week," added Judy.

Nick sighed. The fox was very anxious about two major events in his life. Today he would learn his chances of conceiving children with the love of his life, and next week he would be making a commitment to spend the rest of his life with his love.

As soon as their shift had ended, Judy and Nick went directly to the office of Dr. Murray Schwartz, a fox who was considered by most in the medical field as the top specialist in genetics and genetic compatibility involving inter-species reproduction. Nick and Judy were so eager to get the results of the tests that they didn't even bother changing into civilian clothes before leaving the precinct building.

Dr. Schwartz's office was the picture of tranquility and peace. Several plants were placed in his office, giving off a refreshing smell. Nick and Judy, sat across from the Dr. desk holding paws as they awaited his arrival.

"I wish he'd get here," said Nick. "I think I'm going to have a panic attack."

"Take it easy," said Judy, patting his thigh. "No matter what we find out today, we'll get through it."

Nick grinned at his soon to be wife. "As long as your with me, I can get through anything, honey bunny."

The fox kissed her on the cheek right before Dr. Schwartz, a middle-aged fox with a bit of a belly on him and wearing thick glasses enter the room. Before sitting down, he extended a friendly paw to them.

"Mr. Wilde, Ms. Hopps, or should I say, Officer Wilde and Officer Hopps, how are you today?"

"Fine," said Nick, shaking the doctor's paw. "Though were ready to hear the test results."

"I understand," said Schwartz, sitting down. "I've done a thorough examination of both your DNA and your fiance's, Mr. Wilde."

"And?" said Nick, waiting on bated breath.

"I wish I could have happier news, but it appears as though your chances of conception are 50/50."

"Fifty-fifty?" said Judy. "So, it could go either way?"

"That's right," said Dr. Schwartz. "There's no reason to give up hope, mind you. Perhaps you should look at the this as a glass half full situation, hmm?"

Nick sighed. "I wish you had better news for us, doc."

"No reason to get discouraged, Mr. Wilde," said Schwartz. "Let me show you the very reason I got into the field of genetics."

The older fox took hold of a picture frame that was on his desk and turned it around to show Nick and Judy. "You see that lady rabbit in the picture?"

"Yes," said Nick, wondering what his point was.

"She's my wife," said the doctor.

"Your wife?" said Judy.

"Yes, and we've been married over thirty five years," said the doctor. "Now, let me show you another photo."

Dr. Schwartz showed them another picture frame. Judy didn't have to be told who the seven younger animals were on the photo.

"Those . . . those are your children!" exclaimed the rabbit.

"That's right, Ms. Hopps. Seven healthy, happy children. Best of all, because of the bio-diversity, they've hardly been sick a day in their lives and not one of them was born with any complications or defects."

"Wow," said Nick, staring at the picture of the doctor's children.

"You want to know what our chances were of conceiving back then, Mr. Wilde?"

"What?" asked Nick.

"I was told by the top specialists at the time it would be less than twenty percent, and yet, here I am, proud father of seven wonderful children. I think that says that we doctor's aren't always right about things, wouldn't you? Besides, medicine has come along way from back then, so don't you two give up hope. Life . . . life finds a way."

Nick and Judy rose to their feet and thanked Dr. Schwartz, with Nick giving him a hardy handshake.

"Thank you, sir," said Nick.

"Your welcome," said Dr. Schwartz. "And please, would you two be so kind as to call me if you are able to conceive? I like to know about my success stories."

Nick and Judy gave the doctor each huge smiles, letting him know that they would indeed tell him of any good news.

That evening, Nick and Judy were over at what could only be described as the palatial mansion of Nick's father, Norman Skulk. The couple had been over several times since Nick had reconciled with his father, and every trip had been a thoroughly enjoyable experience.

While Judy was spending time with Nick's half-sister Amanda, Nick was once again with Anthony. Anthony, who wanted to spend every second of his life with his big brother, was busy taking Nick on a tour of the basement studio his father had created for him. Anthony--who had been playing guitar since he was seven years old--had amassed quite a collection of instruments, amplifiers and effects over the years. The younger fox delighted in showing his older brother his collection.

"What's this one?" asked Nick, picking up a guitar from off a hanger on the wall.

"That's a 1965 Fender Jazzmaster in surf green," Anthony informed him. "Like the name says, it was originally made for jazz guys, but they never really took to it."

"Then who did?"

"Surf guys and rock guys," said Anthony.

"Very nice," said Nick. "Oh, I really like this one!"

"That's one of my favorites," said Anthony, plucking it off the wall. "A 1962 Fender Stratocaster in three-tone sunburst."

"Can I hear you play it?" asked Nick.

"Sure," said Anthony.

Nick watched as his little brother took the instrument and plugged it into a a small green box that said "Tube Screamer" on it. From the small green box, a cord ran out and into an amplifier called a "Fender Twin Reverb". Clearly, Nick's brother had an affinity for all things Fender!

Anthony reached behind the amp and flicked on the power switch. Anthony waited for the tubes to warm up before strumming a simple E major chord. Nick listened as Anthony rolled the volume up on the guitar, taking it from a bright, clean tone to a dirty, overdriven sound. Nick could scarcely believe what his brother was playing. The thirteen year old fox was tearing away at some sizzling Texas-style blues, making the guitar sing and cry. Nick was completely blown away as Anthony flicked the pickup selector on his guitar, changing the sounds from thick and throaty, to thin and biting. Clearly, the kit was a natural.

"Nice!" said Nick, clapping as Anthony ended his playing. "You know, I always wanted to learn to play guitar, but Mom never had the money to get me one."

"I can teach you," said Anthony nonchalantly.

"Really?" said Nick. "I'd like that."

"You gotta give me something though," said Anthony.

"What do you want? You already have enough guitars to start your own music store!"

"Not that," laughed Anthony. "Could you take me on a ride along with you and your partner sometime?"

"I'll have to okay it with Dad, and I'm only on patrol for another week before the wedding. After that, Jack and I are going into the Detectives' Bureau, so it'll have to be soon."

"Fine by me," said Anthony. "You're going to need a guitar for lessons, you know."

"I'm sure I'll get one before that," said Nick.

"That's right you will," said Anthony as he took the guitar strap from around his neck that was holding the Stratocaster. "Here, this is for you."

Nick was completely blown away. "For . . . for me?"

"Yeah," said Anthony. "You know Mr. Adams, the coyote butler we have here? His son Jaime is my best friend and I gave him a Gibson Flying V for his birthday, so why wouldn't I give my big brother a guitar?"

"Wow," said Nick, holding the vintage instrument around his neck. He ran his paws along the very worn neck, getting a feel for the instrument that he would learn to play on. It felt just right to him.

"You're a sweet kit," said Nick, ruffling his brother's ears.

"Thanks, Nick," said Anthony, smiling and wagging his tail. "You excited about next weekend?"

"I am," said Nick as the two walked around Anthony's studio. "I hope you can find someone as wonderful as Judy some day."

"Actually, I think I have found someone," said Anthony.

"Is that so," said Nick, playfully elbowing his brother. "You must have some of your older brother's charm. What's her name?"

"Cindy," said Anthony.

"Wait . . . you mean . . . my mom?"

"It's not like that," laughed Anthony. "I mean Amanda and I really love having your mom in our lives. Dad's just crazy about her."

"He was crazy about her years ago, too," said Nick.

"I know about what happened to you, Nick. I'm sorry."

"Thanks," said Nick.

"I call her Mom now," said Anthony.

"Really? You love her that much, huh?"

"Me and Amanda both," said Anthony. "Hey, we'd better get upstairs, it's almost dinner time."

In the dining hall of the Skulk Mansion sat Nick, Judy, Cindy, Norman, Anthony, Amanda, as well as special guests, Jack and Dianne Wolfard. Everyone was having a good time at the meal.

"I can't think you enough for saving my life, Mr. Skulk," said Jack.

"Norman, Jack. Call me Norman, and you are most welcome," said Mr. Skulk.

"I couldn't believe what I was seeing, watching Dad go into a bank in nothing but his underwear. I would have laughed if it wasn't such a serious situation," said Nick.

"You can laugh about it now, son," said Norman, grinning. "So, Jack, are you originally from Zootopia?"

"Nope," said Jack. "Dianne and I are both from Indiana originally."

"Ah," said Cindy. "You ever been to the Indy 500?"

"Nah," said Jack. "Not a racing fan."

"You don't need to do anything else that's dangerous," said Dianne. "I think one trip to the hospital was enough."

"True," said Jack. "I never want to see another hospital as long as I live."

"Oh, by the way," said Norman. "Congratulations to both of you for making detective."

"Thanks, Dad," said Nick.

"Yeah, thanks, Norman," added Jack.

"I guess this means a new start for you, doesn't it?" asked Norman.

"Yeah. Doing detective work is a lot harder than being a uniform cop," said Nick. "I'll probably have to spend more time at work, but I know that with my honey bunny's help, I'll get through it."

"I'm happy for you two," said Norman. "I'm not trying to take away from your joyous occasion next week, but after dinner I have something I'd all like you to stay for."

"What is it, Dad?" asked Amanda.

"A big, big surprise," said Norman, grinning just like his eldest son.

After dinner, everyone gathered in the spacious living room of the mansion. Nick looked at the clock. It was getting late, but he wanted to see what his Dad had planned.

Mr. Adams, the coyote butler of the house walked in with a polar bear besides him. "Mr. Johnson has arrived, sir."

"Thank you, Mr. Adams," said Norman. "Everyone, this is Walter Johnson."

"Hello, everyone," said Walter. "Do you have everything in order, Mr. Skulk?"

"Yes," said Norman. "Nick, you, Anthony and Jack stand up here by me. Judy, if you'd be so kind, I'd like to have you and Mrs. Wolfard stand by Cindy."

It was finally dawning on Nick what was going on. "Wait a minute . . . are you two getting married?"

"We are," said Cindy, holding up a ring with a very large diamond in it. "Your father just wanted a quick, small ceremony, and so did I."

"Oh," said Judy, "I'm so happy for you two!"

Nick had told Jack the day he'd been shot that he hoped his mother and father would get married one day. Anthony had informed him on how he and his sister had been calling Cindy "mom", and now it was finally happening.

"Shall we start?" asked Walter.

"Hit it," said Norman.

Walter cleared his throat. "Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to witness the union of Walter Skulk and Cindy Wilde. Do you have the rings?"

Norman pulled a ring out of his pocket and placed it on Cindy's paw. "Here you are."

"Cindy, do you have the ring for Norman?"

"Right here," she said, giving it to Norman.

"I understand you want to read your own vows, correct?"

"Yes," said Norman, who turned and faced Cindy. "Cindy, years ago I fell in love with you, only to throw you and our unborn son out of my life. I was so incredibly stupid, self-centered and foolish. I know I can never change the past, but I'd like to make it up to you by spending the rest of our lives together. You're my life, my hope, my love."

"Cindy," said Walter. "Are you ready for your vows?"

"Norman, we had a wonderful time together when we were younger. You gave me a wonderful son who I am truly proud of. I know that you're sincere when you say you're sorry for what you've done. I forgive you, and I want to be your wife. I love you."

"Norman, do you take Cindy as your lawful wife?"

"I do," said Norman.

"Cindy, do you take Norman as your lawful husband?"

"I do," said Cindy.

"Very good. I now pronounce you husband and wife. Kiss the bride."

Norman took hold of Cindy and kissed her. Everyone clapped for the newly wed couple.

"Here you are," said Walter. "Mr and Mrs. Norman and Cindy Skulk!"

Everyone hugged the happy couple. Nick looked at his father, trying not to cry.

"I'm so glad we're a family now," said Nick.

"Me too," said Norman. "I'm looking forward to next week when we can add Judy to our happy family."

Judy went over to Nick, holding him tightly. Nick smiled, completely content with the life he now had.

"So am I, Dad."