Following a rather… eventful training session, Skipper had instructed Kowalski in no uncertain terms to work with Rico to curb his enthusiasm for explosions and to increase his communication. Rico looked distinctly unhappy as Skipper glared at him before heading back outside.

"Don't worry Rico. We'll have this licked in no time," Kowalski said confidently. Rico followed him mournfully to where all the scientific apparatus was stored and waited patiently while the methodical penguin sifted through his equipment. Finally Kowalski turned back to him with his clipboard and pencil. Without any further explanation he sat down and started scribbling as his thoughts began to run, only occasionally glancing at his mute companion.

'Rico likes explosions… why? They make a loud noise and draw attention… where he himself is unable to. Therefore his desire for explosions must be indirectly proportional to his ability to communicate…'

He flinched as he suddenly felt Rico's flipper on his shoulder and realised the other penguin was watching him drawing.

"Rico?" Rico asked pointing to the sketch of a penguin holding a stick, obviously meant to be lit dynamite.

"Yes, that's you." Kowalski noted Rico still did not look happy. Perhaps because he didn't like to be portrayed that way? Kowalski had a flash of inspiration. He handed his clipboard up to Rico.

"Why don't you draw me?" Rico looked unsure but took the pro-offered pencil and book. Apparently deep in thought he waddled to sit opposite Kowalski and sat staring intently at the paper before him. Kowalski watched as he applied himself with a singular dedication to the task.

At the end, two things were obvious. Rico was not good at drawing, but he was happier. Kowalski reluctantly rejected the idea that he might use this as a communication tool since the time and effort Rico utilised in sketching meant it would take him even longer to communicate than he did at present. But it might still prove a beneficial hobby.

"Again?" Rico asked. Kowalski nodded and watched as Rico enthusiastically tore off the top page and began another drawing. The other penguin was completely focused, obviously trying hard to convey the image in his head onto the paper.

When Skipper eventually called them back to duty, Rico had completed individual portraits of each penguin, one group shot and finally one picture with just himself and Kowalski.

Kowalski showed the sketch of their leader to Skipper. He didn't seem that impressed.

"Pretty. But it's hardly going to help us in a combat situation. I can't wait around for my troops to paint pretty pictures."

"I know Skipper…"

"I need to have fast responses."

"Yes Skipper."

"I expect you to have more progress to report tomorrow." He waddled off to check the HQ was secure before they settled for the night. Kowalski carried the pictures with him up to his bunk. He knew what Skipper wanted of him and he'd realised that today's session hadn't got him that but he'd thought this showed… something. He looked again at the crude pictures trying to get his head round what precisely they conveyed. He knew Rico was communicating with them but he couldn't quite understand what he was saying.

"Alright boys. Lights out time." Kowalski carefully tucked the pictures under his pillow and put the problem aside for tonight. He'd try again in the morning.