Chapter 9: Business as Usual

She is three minutes away. She smells him. Could have smelled him from 20 miles away if she needed to, but her den is only four miles away. She had heard from numerous prey animals that he is somewhere close by, being taken care of by a group of prey animals no less. Talk about backwards. She can only guess how that came to happen, but decides it's not worth the mental strain to do that. She is a grizzly bear, an apex predator, so all she needs to concern herself with is how she wants to kill him. She could use her claws or her teeth aimed at a vital area, or just tear him apart limb for limb. But should she bash him against a tree or slam him on the ground? Should she take her time or be swift? She doesn't know, she feels like a kid at a candy store, so she'll decide it when she does it.

Now there's a sweet thought. She wants to show the Bone-Chompers what it's like to lose something dear. They had taken her mate's life as part of an initiation for a wolf to join their pack. She would have stopped that from happening, but at the time she was away getting food. Although the wolf she is currently after isn't the one who killed her beloved—that wolf was named Bugsy—she can tell from the scent that the one she is about to kill is one of Bugsy's relatives, so killing him will be the best vengeance possible given her current situation.

Since her mate's death, the bearess had to raise her three cubs without a father, which was an overwhelming task. She tried getting together with another male bear, but the few that were around these parts weren't her type, and she didn't want to move too far away lest she misses an opportunity to get even. And the time for that is now. She will deal a serious blow to the Bone-Chomper Pack and settle the score once and for all. She could care less about gaining any territory for herself and her children, that's a wolf thing. Her motive is just good old-fashion revenge. To attack the Bone-Chomper Pack head-on would be suicide, but killing one injured wolf from that pack is too tempting to pass up. Besides, she wants them to suffer as she has suffered. A physical wound will heal, but the emotional pain will last forever even if fallen comrades can be replaced.

As she gets closer she hears the "signature" wolf accent of her target, and quickly discovers he is not alone when a second voice joins in.

Kale's voice: "Tell me more 'bout da Silver Fang and Wrong-Way Wolf Packs you and ya's mate defeated, coon."

Sarah's voice: "Do I have to? It's a really unhappy topic for me."

Kale's voice (slow and intense): "It wasn't a request."

Female bear thinking: "Why isn't the wolf eating the raccoon?—No. Revenge first, questions later."

She keeps advancing in their direction as Sarah continues.

Sarah's voice (gulp): "They were the most sadistic creatures to ever walk the Earth. Shark-Bite Silver Fang was obsessed with his looks and valued that and his fiancé's wedding ring more than his own pack."

Kale's voice: "Wedding ring?...Dat guy was really old-fashioned."

Sarah's voice: "Yes. We discovered his pack's dwelling by coincidence and Rogan gave me the ring as a memento of his love for me. I tried to give it back to Shark-Bite when he and his pack came waltzing in, and then a crow took the ring. I was pregnant with RJ at the time, and Shark-Bite still ordered his pack to kill my mate and me."

Kale's voice: "But one of his pack members betrayed him, right?"

Sarah's voice: "Yes, Blood Hound."

The bearess actually stops and considers putting her vengeance attack on hold to take the time to listen about that peculiar detail. Then decides to ignore anymore words spoken by the raccoon and wolf, because she wants to use their chit-chat to sneak up on them so as to kill the wolf while he's busy listening or talking. There's no point in worrying about the canine picking up her scent, because the day before she had swam in a river then rolled around in foliage for an hour, and finally slept outside her den so her cubs' scents wouldn't get on her. In other words, if noses could see, she'd be invisible to the naked eye.

A few more minutes of creeping and the ursine can now see the wolf and the raccoon sitting in front of a big log located in an open area, with their backs turned to her. Although she would like to attack him from the front so he could spend the last few seconds of his life looking on in terror at the one who will be killing him, she opts to take him out from behind instead. The reasons is because her revenge is more important than letting her victim know that it is she who is killing him. She'll save the frontal assault for the wolf who killed her mate, not this one who isn't responsible and is merely her means to an end instead of her true goal.

The open area, which puts the wolf 30 feet in front of her current position, means she'll have to be quick once she exits her cover behind a large tree. That wouldn't be a problem even if the wolf had four good legs to run on, but with the canine lying on top of a skateboard and his hind legs in castes, her victory is a certainty. All she has to do is wait for the wolf to start a monologue so that he'll be focused on his self-aggrandizing words instead of his surroundings.

Sarah: "And then there was Wrong-Way Wes, who—"

Kale: "I teenk dat's enough."

Sarah (sighs in relief): "T-thank you...I couldn't bear much more taking about them."

Kale: "I wish I could'a meet dem. Dey was true wolves! And I got so caught up in enjoyin' hearin' about dare deeds dat I forgot ta take notes."

Sarah: "Trust me, you wouldn't want to be like them."

Kale: "Oh, yes I would! They did everythin' wolves should be doin'. Dey was ruthless, determined ta never let dare prey go, relentless—"

The bear bolts from her hiding spot, and clears 10 feet in two seconds.

Kale: "NOW!"

Kale is suddenly pulled forward at blistering speed by the green extension cord tied to his skateboard that the bear thought was a vine. The canine disappears into the log, and out the opposite end emerges a multitude of prey animals pulling the cord. Undeterred, the bearess digs her claws into the ground to help her spin to the right without losing her speed. She intends to break through the log and attack the wolf who choice of cover, though wise, won't hold back her immense strength for long. But she turns her head in the direction of someone's voice yelling, "Fo-orrrre!"

To her left is RJ, who has already whacked a golf ball with his club. The round object hits her in the ribs and sends sharp pain in that area, making her grunt and forcing her to stop.

Female bear: "What're you doing?! I'm after the wolf, not you!"

RJ: "If you hurt him, he'll kill us. We have to defend him."

Female bear: "Then let me kill him so you'll be free of him."

Kale's voice: "Not gonna happen, Vanesa. I'm holdin' da female coon-possum in here wit me as my hostage, and will kill 'er first if they fail. And by da way, you's attack was doomed ever since I smelt ya's from three miles away. No amount'a woods smell can trick my nose!"

Vanesa growls in anger.

RJ: "Last chance. Go away."

Vanesa (turns to RJ): "Never! And I now that I know you're all in my way, I'll have to kill you too!"

RJ (muttering): "I was afraid of this..." (Shouting) "Kids!"

Before Vanesa can take another step, she is assaulted by a hail of Frisbees, rocks, baseballs, and boomerangs thrown by Hammy, Bernard, Roger, Ty, De'Ausha, Plushie, and the six adolescent porcupines. The bear dodges some of the boomerangs, but is hit by them when they return. The sight of this makes Hammy muse, "I know how that feels..." with the smallest hint of sympathy for the ursine. But he and the other kids don't let up, and continue to throw a seemingly unlimited supply of projectiles.

Angered more than ever, Vanesa turns to the direction of the throwers. All of them are on the ground, and therefore easy targets, so she heads their way. Her rage enables her to ignore RJ's next golf ball that hits her in the rear, as well as the objects hitting her front, but she can't ignore Rebecca when she appears in between Vanesa and the kids.

Not questioning why a raccoon would do something so foolish, and only acknowledging that someone has presented her with an easy kill, Vanesa swipes her massive forepaw forward at RJ's little sister. Rebecca leaps up and grabs onto Vanesa's arm, using it as a gymnastics bar to spin herself in a full rotation. Vanesa opens her jaws and bites down hard—on her own arm that Rebecca had let go of not a moment too soon. Vanesa howls in agony while holding her injured arm with her good one, whereas Rebecca lands gracefully on the ground with her head high and her paws in the air in a gymnastics landing pose.

Vanesa's eyes have fire in them now, and she clasps both forepaws together and brings them down as hard as she can, hoping to squash Rebecca. However, the raccoon dashes forward into the gap between Vanesa's arms and misty-flips onto the bear's head, where she bites her opponent's ear. Vanesa snarls and tries to swat Rebecca off of her, but the raccoon leaps up again to avoid it, then lands in a handstand still atop Vanesa's head. The bearess ducks her head forward which finally gets the pesky raccoon off of her. Rebecca lands on her back in front of the bear, who sneers and then comes forward with both arms and her maw.

The next thing Vanesa feels and hears is the hard Smack! of Verne's shell that hits her square in the face, everywhere above her snout. The shell had been hurtled by a large makeshift slingshot composed of latex rubber bands tied around two trees. Needless to say that Vanesa lets out a long and loud roar of pain while rearing up on her hind legs—exactly as the hedgies want her to do. All of the porcupines runs up to her and hit the ursine's hind legs with all the strength their quill-filled tails can muster. They run out of the way to avoid Vanesa as she falls to the ground face-first, her hard impact shaking the ground and making some trees lose their leaves.

With three sources of pain assailing her senses at once, Vanesa continues to roar with her eyes closed. When she does open them, Stella's and De'Ausha's raised tails fill her vision. Vanesa's eyes widen in horror, which only provides the oncoming skunk spray with better targets to cause more damage than usual. The chemical of the spray does more than just blast the bear's face with a horrid stench, it blinds her. Screaming, she swipes this way and that hoping to get an avenging strike on the skunk and skunat, but hits nothing but air. When she's done screaming, she decides to accept defeat and leave before this group of crafty prey animals does more harm to her.

Vanesa: "Grrrrrrrr! You win this round! But I'll be back, and—!"

RJ: "—We'll be waiting! Thanks for the heads-up!"

Kale's voice: "Now leave, ya smelly, all washed up hack! Or I'll ord'a my slaves ta kill ya! Show 'er I mean business!"

RJ tees off another golf ball that hits Vanesa in the back. The hedgies shout "Yeah!", and then start throwing more rocks, Frisbees and baseballs at her. The humiliated bearess still can't see, and struggles to navigate back the way she came since all she can smell is the skunk spray, and all she can hear are the prey animals shouting while continuing to throw things at her. It's a tough process, but Vanesa does end up stumbling upon the correct direction that will eventually take her back to her den—after having run into every tree or bush that was in the wrong direction.

The hedgies break out in a cheer once the bear is out of sight, only for Kale to spoil the moment with a loud, "Shut up and rally on me!" The result is instantaneous and the prey animals all look in the direction of the log where Kale is coming out of the way he was pulled in, holding Mary by the scruff of her neck using his teeth. The gather around him and nervously wait for his next order.

Kale: "Not bad. Ev'a since I've been teachin' ya's how ta really use ya's abducted items for reasons besides relaxing, you's've become da best ragtag band'a misfits in the state."

The animals hang their heads at how they have come to accept that every compliment the wolf gives them is always accompanied with insults.

Kale (ridiculing tone): " 'Oh, why tank you, Kale, for ya's live-savin' instructions. Without dat we'd have been wolf chow for failin' you's, den bear chow.' "

The hedgies stammer out words of thanks to Kale who holds his head up in pride. The feeling lasts until the next one speaks.

Verne: "But that bear meant it about coming back to get revenge on us."

Ozzie (to Kale): "And when that happens, you won't be around to show us how to use different tactics."

Rick: "Yeah. If we use the same tricks, they may not work a second time, and certainly won't work a third time."

Hammy: "And bears can climb trees! Nowhere will be safe!"

Kale: "Dat's your problem. By dee end of dis week, I'll be ready ta rejoin my pack and you'll nev'a see me again. I thought you'd be grateful for dat."

Penny: "Not if we'll have a bear, and who knows what other predators who want a piece of you, after us."

Kale (pointing): "RJ's got a gun, so you's got nothin' ta worry about."

RJ: "I wasted one of my six bullets on the warning shot last month to make the forest population back off. That leaves only five left for a last-resort defense."

Kale (angry): "I can count! Dis isn't kindergarten math class!" (Looks at Mary and starts to slowly scratch her with his claws) "Tell 'im!"

Mary: "Daddy!—Owwwwww!"

RJ (frantic): "Ok, ok! I-I-I'm sorry for underestimating your superior intelligence!"

Kale (stops scratching Mary and nods): " 'Superior intelligence...' Now ya speakin' my language."

RJ: "But back to the issue with my gun, bullets aren't easy to come by in the Elysian Fields Estates. Not many residents own guns, and if they did, the bullets would have to be a perfect match. No one over in the suburbs" (points to the hedge) "has the bullets my gun uses."

Kale: "Like I said, dat's your problem."

RJ (grips his fingers into fists and speaks in an angry tone): "I should have shot you the night you were out cold when we first brought you here."

Kale: "Too bad you's had too much on ya's mind back den dat ya didn't think ta use ya gun on me until after my hermanos tried ta bring me back to my pack. At dat point, they're expectin' me ta come back by no more than three months, which is dee end of this week. If I'm a day late, dey'll come here searchin' for me and kill ya all when dey see my corpse. If you teenk I'm formidable—which I am—den wait until ya see what my bro's can do."

RJ grimaces in anger, and tightens his fists so hard that his arms tremble. He then turns, lets out an angry shout, and starts stomping away.

Kale: "I didn't dismiss ya yet."

The wolf grips and squeezes Mary whose yelp of pain causes RJ to turn around and come back to Kale.

Kale (smiles smugly and speaks in snarky rhetoric): "Doesn't feel good when you's da one who's bein' treated like a kindergartner, does it?"

RJ uncurls his fists and raises his arms and paws in a pending-to-claw/grab manner, but is stopped when Heather puts both paws on his left shoulder.

Heather: "RJ..."

RJ sees the look in his soul mate's eyes that read, "Remember what happened last time you lost your temper with Kale..." and relaxes before he does something that will make Mary hate him as much as Bernard does. When he looks back at Kale, the wolf is satisfied with the raccoon's submission.

Kale: "Now let's get back ta business. We need ta get more food for me and you's, I need more ice on my hind legs, and I'm really in da mood ta watch some TV. Get to it!"

The hedgies nod and start fulfilling their new tasks as their actions are continuing to be watched by the Bone-Chomper observer who is hidden.


Emmy has been the observer for today and has gleaned some useful knowledge that is not only helpful for fixing a gap in Track's stay with the prey, but also helpful for the Bone-Chompers in the future. First off, Sarah had a look of suffering on her face as she recounted her ordeals with the Silver Fang and Wrong-Way Packs. That, plus the physical and emotional abuse, continues to confirm that Track is still doing a fantastic job of ruling over them with an iron paw. This extends into the preys' fight against Vanesa. When the hedgies attacked the bear under Track's orders, Emmy had seen how their faces were full of desperation and intensity, not joy or confidence. That means they were trying really hard to drive the bear away, despite their reluctance and fear of taking on a bear. In other words, they were doing it because their lives depended on it, and they were afraid of failing. All of which means that Track has their lives in his paws, like a true wolf.

Second, the conversation Track and his caretakers had about how the latter have gotten so good at fending off other attackers because of Track's instructions, gives Emmy and her pack some extra assurance in the future. The prey animals won't last long without Track's intellect, which means returning predators will easily defeat the hedgies, even if Track doesn't eat them once he's all better, which she knows he will. In any case, the Bone-Chompers won't have to worry about this group of prey animals causing trouble the next time the wolves make another attempt to gain the territory they should have gotten from Track's failed hunt.

Third, the "plot hole" about why RJ hadn't used his revolver on Track has been solved, and there's no reason to reflect about that any further.

But there are some new inconsistencies to now keep in mind. The first is actually distressing. When Track told Vanesa that no amount of woods smell could deceive his sense of smell, Emmy now wonders if Track has been able to smell the Bone-Chompers who have been coming to check in on him all along. If that's the case, then Track could have been putting on one heck of a ruse during every observation, working together with the prey to deceive the Bone-Chompers. It makes sense because the kid does have an amazing nose, and once the bear was in Emmy's range the godmother's own sense of smell had determined the steps Vanesa had taken to rid her scent. If Track could detect that from three miles away, what's to say he couldn't smell the scent of the Bone-Chompers too; folks he's been around his whole life? That's when Emmy recalls Track's words with greater clarity: "No amount'a woods smell can trick my nose!" Emmy sighs in relief at how she and the rest of the pack members have been masking their natural scents using the scents of freshly-killed prey animals instead of foliage. So there's no way Track could know about them, even with his nose.

The second new plot hole is how was Track able to convince the prey to help him escape the bear if he didn't have a hostage in his grip from the onset? He only had one after he had been pulled into the log, so why hadn't the prey just let the bear kill him? It couldn't have been from fear or submission alone, because RJ's words today showed that there is always a spark of defiance ready to be ignited in himself. It then occurs to Emmy that Track was in a foreleg's reach of Sarah, so it's obvious that he would have threatened to kill her if the animals didn't pull him to safety. After all, there was nothing stopping Kale from using more than just the hybrids as hostages. And Sarah was RJ's mother so using her would be just as effective.

The third inconsistency is that the teenage raccoon girl's gymnastics are something that Track could never have taught her, simply because Track is no gymnast and wolves don't have the skeletal structure necessary for the kind of moves she was doing. The raccoon could put human Olympic gold medalists to shame, and that kind of talent comes from years of practice. Moreover, it comes from experience in using it against other predators. But after some thought, Emmy theorizes that the raccoon teen already knew how to do gymnastics, and just used it to help fend off the bear. The fact that Track had said he taught the prey animals how to use items further confirms this.

After staying for 30 more minutes and observing nothing out of the ordinary, Emmy starts heading back home. But unlike the more headstrong observers (Nelson, Bonnie, Clyde, and Gabby), Emmy isn't fully satisfied with her observation today. The reason is that her shift, like all the others before it, have yet to shed light on the greatest plot hole of all: why did RJ not shed any tears when he cried after apologizing for the time he had been okay with sacrificing his son's life to attack Track? At this point, every Bone-Chomper, except Bugsy and Luciano, have observed Track and his caretakers at least once, and none have been able to find an answer for that. Besides Leo, Emmy is the most obsessive-compulsive disorder wolf in the pack, so it bugs the living stew out of her that she still hasn't found closure on something so important. She then decides the hedgies won't be around much longer for that gap in understanding to matter, and plans to share her amazing point with the others when she gets back.

In any case, being smarter than the brasher wolves makes Emmy walk away from here on out feeling proud. Being smarter than Nelson, Bonnie, Clyde and her daughter, she can solve the inconsistencies on her own before returning to the pack.

But being smarter and having OCD also means that she has been overthinking as she solved the first two inconsistencies in her observation. For she still hasn't grasped how Kale and his caretakers have been playing the Bone-Chompers like fools ever since the first observation.


Back at the log, Kale tells the hedgies when his pack member has left, and the celebrations begin—except Kale joins them this time, as he had in all the observations ever since getting the group hug. Until he rejoins his pack, he is no longer bound by the codes of wolf society, and loves every minute of it. He only insults them during their pretend sessions now, which are in and of themselves fake. Since accepting the hedgies as his allies, Kale and the family have been getting along better by the day, as the ensuing conversation clearly indicates.

Lou: "You're the best, Kale! Without your nose, we'd have never had the time to prepare for the bear."

Kale: "Hey, I can't take all'a da credit. You's the ones who have all the weapons and varied abilities ta take down any predator dat comes ya's way."

Quillo: "We're gonna miss ya when you have to leave."

Kale: "Yeah, me too...Which reminds me—uh, I need ya's attention."

He waits for the hedgies to stop celebrating and fully focus on the wolf.

Kale: "Ya's sure you's can defeat any predator dat comes ta get revenge on ya's? I won't be able ta help out when I'm back with my pack."

RJ: "Relax, Kale. We'll do just fine."

Simon: "My family and I can use our sense of smell to pick up anyone unfriendly coming our way."

Rogan: "And we've become masters with all the self-defense things we've stolen from humans."

Verne: "I'll always prefer not to count my chickens before they hatch, but I'm at least confident that we'll do just fine. Just trust us, Kale."

Kale (nods at Verne): "I will, Verne. But we still need ta talk about how ya's gonna pretend ta be dead. We already fooled Emmy by sayin' ya's wouldn't last long against predators without my help. And like I told ya's two weeks ago, I nev'a intended ta eat you's once I fully recovered, but I told my bro's I would. So my pack'll be snoopin' around ta make sure I kept my word, most likely as soon as I rejoin 'em."

RJ: "We've already got it planned out. First, we'll stay at our closest friends' dwellings and let them stay at our log, telling them to pretend we're dead too."

Verne: "Second, we'll change living areas daily with our friends to prevent your pack from locating us no matter how deep in the woods they come."

Heather: "Third..."

She and the rest look at Roger, Tyler, De'Ausha, Plushie, Mary, and Bernard.

De'Ausha (sighs): "No one'll go play at the neutral zone."

Roger: "We'll only have fun at our new homes..."

Ty: "...By inviting our friends to come see us instead of the other way around."

The rest nod at the kids and look back at Kale.

Kale (nods): "Sounds good. Keep it up for two months and I can guarantee dat my pack'll lose interest in locatin' ya's."

Verne (to the others): "This won't be easy, guys. We'll have to live away from all of our possessions and downtime spots for two months. But I know that no one's gonna object, because what's at stake here?"

Hedgies in unison: "Our survival."

Verne: "Which is more valuable to us than any item from the human world we've gained. All of us learned how to live without human stuff before, we can do it again."

Hedgies in unison: "Yes."

The group stands in silence for a few moments before Velma asks a serious question.

Velma: "Kale...?"

Kale: "I'm listenin', Velma."

Velma: "Once you get back to your pack, you'll hunt prey animals again won't you?"

Kale: "Of course. I have to. When I go back, Nature's laws between predator and prey will be restored. Not ta mention my pack'll ridicule me more if I don't eat prey critters."

Hammy: "Will you eat us?"

Kale: "If you's do what ya's supposed to, dat won't be an issue."

Hammy: "But what if your pack does discover us? Will you eat us then?"

Now that they know Hammy actually put some genuine thought into his question, instead of just saying what was on his mind, everyone looks at Kale. The wolf looks in the eyes of everyone before responding.

Kale: "If I'm ever huntin' alone, no. But if I'm ordered to in da presence of one of my pack members...I'll have no choice. If they discover dat I lied to 'em, they'll order me ta kill ya's for sure as a demonstration of loyalty. So you's gotta stay hidden for my sake too. Promise me."

Hedgies in unison: "We promise, Kale."

Kale: "Good."

Plushie: "What about our friends? Will you hunt them too?"

Kale: "Yes. Whether I'm ordered to, or not."

Even though everyone had expected him to say that, the hedgies still look at each other in concern, then look back at Kale as he elaborates.

Kale: "My debt is ta you's, and you's alone. Everyone else in da forest is food ta me. It may not be dee answer ya wanted, but it's just da way it is."

RJ: "We understand." (To the others) "Right?"

The family affirms collectively either through words or nods.

Kale: "But if you's wanna keep ya's friends safe, den keep 'em close ta you's, and remember ta stay hidden."

That remark is what reminds the forest family that Kale still has good in his heart, somewhere deep down, hidden beneath his predator tendencies. The tip he just gave them will very likely save their friends' lives, once the latter are ready to accept the hedgies back as friends. That will be the challenging part, but there is no doubt of their success in that.

Kale: "Is dare anything else you's wanna talk about in regards to da future?"

Hammy: "Will you ever come back to visit us?"

Kale (sighs): "Don't count on it. My pack'll keep a close eye on me ta ensure I haven't gone soft since my time with all'uv you's. I doubts we'll ever see each oth'as again."

Even Kale's head lowers after finishing.

Mary: "But you've become so much fun to be around."

Kale: "I know."

Quillo: "You're much better at playing games. You even give my brothers and me a run for our money."

Kale: "I know. But it's for the best. For us all."

The look Kale gives and the sincerity of his delivery puts a stop to any further attempt to convince him to visit them.

After some silence, Bernard can't help but ask, "What's the first thing you'll do when you return to your pack?"

Kale: "Well, I don't teenk I can tell ya's—"

Heather: "Easy, Bernard. Remember that he can't tell us everything about his pack's lifestyle."

Kale: "Thanks, Heather."

Verne: "Does anyone have something else they wanna say?"

No one does, and they turn to leave for the Pad.

RJ: "What's wrong, Kale?"

Everyone redirects their attention to the wolf, who is glad that RJ noticed he has more to say.

Kale: "...We should've killed Vanesa, not driven her away. Dead, she can't come back ta get revenge on you's or my pack."

RJ: "Yes, we did consider that before coming up with our plan to defeat her. But leaving her alive is better than killing her because the humiliation will keep her from coming back for revenge."

Tiger: "As the saying in my home country goes, 'Abva—"

Stella: "In English, Tiger."

Hedgies and Kale in unison: "Please."

Tiger: "As you wish. 'There is nothing more disgraceful than for someone who instills fear in others to live in a place where everyone mocks him and is no longer afraid of him.' In other words, shaming an adversary is a far more grievous blow than any physical injury or even death can inflict."

Kale: "I know, ya's think dat Vanesa won't be able ta show her face around deese parts without bein' laughed at. But enough humiliation will only wanna make her prove why all creatures should fear her."

Roger: "Can all predators just not let bygones be bygones?"

Kale doesn't bat an eye at the random question asked and answers it immediately and willingly, which again shows how his relationship with the hedgies has improved.

Kale: "Don't forget about predator pride. Dat extends ta all predators, not just wolves. Every predator considers demselves ta be da biggest, baddest animals on da block, whereas prey is considered low life scum. And dee advantage of bein' considered low life scum is dat maintainin' one's reputation is never an issue." (1)

Having the most experience with the aspirations of predators due to his time with Vincent, RJ wants to make a comparison, but relents because Vincent didn't care about his image among the greater animal community. The bear was a recluse and too selfish to do that.

Kale: "But as you's said, I'm gonna trust ya's in being able ta deal with her if she ever comes back...Just as you's needs ta trust me that me n' my pack can take 'er out too."

Hedgies in unison: "We do."

Verne: "Anything else you wanna say, Kale? Or anyone else?"

No one speaks, so Verne continues, "Then let's go relax before we head out to raid some more things."

Everyone nods and goes their separate way, except for Sarah who is drawn to the sound of someone saying, "Psst. Over here."

She turns and sees Kale motioning with his head to come beside him. Sarah shrugs and walks over to him.

Sarah: "What is it?"

Kale puts his paw up in a stop hand gesture and then motions to the family who is still in earshot. The raccoon nods and waits for the others to leave. When they're all away, she asks, "Well?"

Kale: "I just wanted ta let ya know, dat I appreciate ya's willingness ta talk ta me about ya's experiences with the Silver Fang and Wrong-Way Packs. I could tell it was hard for you's."

Sarah (sighs): "You'd think that talking about it years after it happened would make it easier for me, but time can't heal all wounds."

Kale: "Yeah...But what I really wanted ta say was dat when I said I liked hearin' what dey did ta you's and ya's mate, I was just playin' along with da ruse. I mean, da first time ya told me about what dey did ta you's on the night we met, I originally tought it was cool for wolves ta do dose things toward prey animals. But now dat I know you's betta, the actions of the Wrong-Way and Silver Fang Packs are just pure madness and unnecessary cruelty, 'stead of wolves exerting dare dominance over prey animals. Dey took things way too far with you's, and should'a given up dare hunt when dey started sufferin' major casualties."

Sarah (puts a paw on Kale in appreciation): "Thanks for telling me that. And if you don't mind me asking, is your pack godfather anything like Shark-Bite Silver Fang or Wrong-Way Cammie?"

Kale: "I..."

Sarah: "Can't tell me? I thought so."

Kale: "Well..."

The wolf looks around and confirms no one is nearby, and then beckons Sarah to come very close to him.

Kale (whispering): "I'll tell you's if you promise not ta tell anyone. Not even ya's mate or kids."

Sarah (whispering): "I promise."

Kale (whispering): "Leo's a very honorable wolf who thinks of the pack's well-being above himself. He's too mature and smart ta let somethin' like what you and ya's mate did make him go on a vengeance spree...But all wolves do like ta play around with—and by dat, I mean torture—any prey animals who've given 'em a hard time, and Leo's no exception. He'll just follow the codes of wolf society while doin' it."

Sarah (whispering): "I see. Thank you. I couldn't bear having to be separated from my son and extended family again."

Kale (raises an eyebrow in humor): " 'Couldn't bear'? Was dat a joke?"

Sarah pauses to absorb what Kale had said, then giggles and says, "It was unintentional, I assure you."

Kale: "Heh-heh. I guess it's fair for me ta take credit."

Sarah: "Sure thing."

Kale: "Okay, we's done here. You's can go n' relax now."

Sarah nods and heads off to where her mate and grandchildren are. As Kale makes his way over to the Pad, he can't decide who will be more hurt from his leave: himself or the hedgies?

Note: (1)=Based on Star Wars: The Mandalorian Armor by K.W. Jeter.


In the last few days of the week, Kale made sure to spend as much time having fun with the forest family as he could, knowing he'll never get a chance to do this again. He enjoys it to the last nanoseconds.

Saturday is when his castes are removed, and his departure from the hedgies was intentionally short because to drag it on for too long would make it impossible for him to want to leave. There weren't any speeches, any attempts to convince him to stay, or any hugs, paw shakes or fist bumps. He and they simply said goodbye to each other, one at a time, and then Kale left.

Kale isn't too sad because he remembers how things will get better for him once he gets back to his pack. He will use the knowledge he has learned from this overly-generous and amazingly tolerant group of prey animals to become a better wolf and never lose his self-confidence again. By their actions and words, they taught him things he never would have discovered had he not lived with them for three months. A thought comes into his head as he finishes reminiscing about his time with the hedgies, a thought that will ensure his future successes as a wolf in the Bone-Chomper Pack.

Kale thinking: "Lesson one from dis experience: Realize just how much ya don't know. Lesson two: make sure ta learn from lesson one." (1)

He is two-thirds of the way back home, and it suddenly occurs to him how great it feels for him to have the use of his hind legs again. He can sprint, dodge, jump, sneak without making any noise, and roll over and turn around in an instant. He's so happy, that he does those things as if it's his first time. Although his forelegs feel slightly stronger than his hind ones, which will take some time to get used to, it's phenomenal nonetheless. He can't wait to go on his next hunt, and he has a plan of just where it should be: wherever Ladarius's family lives.

Kale thinking: "It's dare fault I got inta dis mess. Dey made me rush, den they spread da word of my failed hunt around. Dey'll pay for dat!

"But if dey hadn't ruined ya hunt, you's would'a never met da forest family..."

Kale catches the return of his wolf-conscience wrestling with his kid-conscience, and tries to find his Kale-conscience to settle the issue.

Kale thinking: "Yep, dat's true...But now I gotta be a wolf again. The codes of wolf society are on me like green on grass. You's knew it would come back, and here it is. And as for huntin' da family of De'Ausha's boyfriend...well, maybe I can just kill his parents. Dare the ones who I have a bone ta pick with, not the skunk kit or his sisters. Dose four can move in with da prey animal family when dare parents die...Oh how sweet dat'll be when it happens! I'll get 'em if it's da last thing I—"

Kale pauses his thoughts and stops in his tracks when he catches onto where his mentality will lead him.

Kale thinking: "Don't make da same mistake as da Silver Fang and Wrong-Way Packs did. If ya's do a hunt, ya do it for ya's pack, not for personal pleasure. Ya do it in fulfillment of the codes of wolf society, nothin' more and nothin' less."

Kale continues his trek with a smile on his face at how he is smarter as a result of his talk with Sarah. He can't wait to prove to his pack just how much he has improved.

Note: (1)=Based on Star Wars: Dark Tide I: Onslaught by Michael A. Stackpole.


At the Bone-Chompers Wolf Pack's dwelling, Gabby's ankle has also fully healed, which benefited her pack as much as herself. Earlier this week, she was able to adequately participate in hunting down four foxes who had the nerve to try to take over some of her pack's territory. The foxes were clever in not attacking the Bone-Chompers directly, and believed their intellect would outsmart the Bone-Chompers where the Rock-Busters' strength failed. The vulpines and one vixen gave the wolves a run for their money by leading the pack on a perilous journey near human hunters' fields and car-filled highways, while another rival wolf pack tried to take over a different section of Bone-Chomper territory—meaning some predators indeed learned to work together to try to best the Bone-Chompers. Unfortunately for their opponents, the Bone-Chompers both outmatched and outsmarted the foxes and other wolves, and reclaimed their rightful territories.

Although the battle was won, the Bone-Chompers still have much to do in order to ensure something like this never happens again. The foxes knew of the hidden underground tunnel dug by the Bone-Chompers long ago that enabled them to easily move through the territory that the foxes tried to take over. Only two types of creatures knew about the hidden passage: the Bone-Chompers and a select few prey animals who do the wolves' bidding in the territories in which they live. This means that the foxes temporary hold on the Bone-Chompers' land was an inside job done by one of the prey animals under the wolves' sway. Such animals are dubbed "paisanos," meaning peasants, and they serve as the Bone-Chompers' eyes and ears in their territories. The paisanos tell the wolves how well or not the other animals in their territory are following in line with the Bone-Chompers' laws, and if any uprisings are about to occur. The paisanos struck their deal with the Bone-Chompers who agreed to protect them and give them power and luxuries in their territories that most creatures lack. But it seems that one paisano isn't satisfied, and thus must be dealt with.

Leo: "I recently got word dat all the paisanos in Area 3 have returned from visitin' dare extended families. They can meet with us whenever we want, so today we need ta decide who's gonna accompany me ta address dee issue of an unfaithful paisano...Dillinger, you's look da scariest, so you's coming with me for sure."

Dillinger nods giddily like a bobble head in sick amusement while smirking.

Gabby: "I'll sit dis one out, papa. I don't want paisanos ta think I'm just ya's lapdog."

Leo: "I agree."

Bugsy: "I secured da deal with our paisanos, so I'll go in her place, Leo."

Voice: "Me too!"

Everyone turns in the direction the voice came from, and no one can believe their eyes! Kale has returned, and is standing on all four legs.

Luciano and Bugsy in unison (in joy): "KALE!"

The ex-Sniff-Trackers run over to their youngest sibling and tackle him to ground where all three start rolling over as they give each other noogies and play-bites. When they're done playing and laughing, the other Bone-Chompers run up and verbally join the festivities by saying "Dare he is!", "Looks who's come back!", "Lo and behold, da prodigal son has returned!"

Bugsy: "What took ya so long, hermanito?"

Kale: "I had ta eat da prey critters who I tricked ta take care of me, dat's what. I wanted ta savor every moment, and it was awe-some!"

Clyde: "Yep, ya sure showed dem. 'Specially in rulin' dem like a slave driver, literally!"

Bonnie: "Ya forced 'em ta watch da TV shows only you wanted."

Nelson: "Told 'em how you knowing 'bout dem usin' dare free time items was part'a ya's plan ta make 'em betta slaves."

Emmy: "And even made the raccoon's son hate his own daddy for bein' willin' ta sacrifice him just to attack ya."

Kale: "What can I say, it's what any wolf should've done ta prey like—Wait a minute?" (Surprised) "How'd you's know all dat?"

Leo: "Simple: we've been spyin' on ya, Track."

Kale (shocked): "Spyin' on me?" (Frustrated) "Why?!"

Emmy: "Ta make sure you weren't lyin' ta ya's brothers about usin' da prey critters ta help heal ya's up."

Kale (angry): "Why would ya's think I wouldn't?! I'm a wolf for peat's sake!"

Luciano: "Watch ya tone, Kale. Because you's a wolf, you should be a pro at lyin', even ta ya's own species."

Leo: "I found some inconsistencies in da story about you's current situation when Bugsy and Luciano returned after tryin' ta bring ya back. We had ta be sure you's weren't willingly lettin' 'em take care of ya."

Capone: "Though we decided ta tell many prey animals dat you were..."

Kale: "What're you's talkin' about?—"

That's when the dots connect.

Kale (low and in seething rage): "You's...Were da ones...who told all the prey animals...dat I voluntarily agreed...ta let da family of misfits...take care of me?!"

Leo (calm and smugly): "Indeed it was."

Kale: "I could've been killed! I almost was killed! If da raccoon in charge chose ta shoot me with his gun instead of aiming at da crowd—!"

Nelson: "And yet, you's alive, and used it ta tighten ya's hold over dem more than ever."

Capone: "I bet it made 'em taste betta too, gettin' revenge for dat."

Emmy: "You made us very proud, Track. You showed dat you's a true wolf after all, and not just a foul-up."

Kale takes a deep breath to calm himself down before saying, "Well...when ya's put it dat way...I-I guess I should be thankful."

Gabby: "Darn right ya do, Track. Oh, and until you's become a true Bone-Chomper get used ta bein' called 'Track.'

Kale's eyes widen and he looks earnestly at his godsister.

Kale: "Gabby..."

Gabby: "Kale..."

The other wolves back up to give those two some room to have a one-on-one talk. When they spoke each other's name—particularly Gabby calling him "Kale"—both had addressed the other in a tone that indicates there is something between them that must be resolved. And the onlookers know exactly what it is.

Gabby: "Good ta see ya's legs're better."

Kale: "You's too. Uh, Gabby? Not a day went by when I wanted ta say how sorry I was ta you's for gettin' ya's leg injured. I had ta live for three months without either of my hind legs, and dat was a nightmare. It's one thing ta say sorry, but it's anoth'a thing ta say sorry after experiencin' the hardships I caused ya. You're like a big sister ta me, and I should've never been so selfish ta forget about dat. Can ya ever forgive me? I'm really, really, really, really sorry."

Gabby listened closely to everything Track has told her. He wasn't trying to ask for forgiveness just to make himself feel better, but to make her feel better too. He truly meant it, every word. So she decides to return the favor.

Gabby: "Step forward, Track."

Eager to be forgiven, Kale lets the use of his mock-name slide and steps forward, willingly to do anything in order to finally get on Gabby's good side.

Gabby: "See dis rock?" (Points to where the rock is next to where she is standing) "Come put ya's left hind ankle right against it, so dat you's touching it."

Kale obeys, but not without the dreadful feeling of nervousness and unease settling in. The left hind ankle is where Gabby had been injured after rolling down the hill and hitting a rock at the bottom during his hunt. While doing as instructed, he looks at his pack members with pleading eyes, hoping that they'll step in and stop Gabby. But they're just gazing on as if it's some sort of sick game.

Only two don't find any interest in what's unfolding. Bugsy and Luciano look at each other in question, then look at Gabby. Luciano opens his mouth to take a breath so he can speak, but a hard look from Emmy stills his tongue. The two brothers have no choice but to keep watching.

Kale puts his left hind ankle against the rock now, then looks at Gabby who nods in appreciation.

Gabby: "Hold still."

She walks up and gets within striking range of Kale, not to mention getting into an attack stance.

Kale: "Uhhhhh. Gabby...?"

Gabby (keeps her eyes on Kale's ankle): "Shut up."

She taps her right forepaw lightly on Kale's ankle then brings it slowly back in the same way a person would aim before swinging an axe against a tree.

Kale: "But, m-my legs just got betta—"

Gabby: "Shut up!"

The sharp and snapping tone she just used even makes Dillinger wince, but Emmy and Leo remain strong and continue to observe. Gabby pulls back her forepaw intently, and Kale grimaces in preparation for her to hit him.

Just when it seems that she will hit him, Gabby puts her forepaw down and says, "Just kiddin'."

Kale blinks in stupefied astonishment, unsure whether he is dreaming. When it's clear that he isn't, he lets out a long, barking laugh.

Kale: "Ay dios mío...You's were just foolin' with me! Hahahaha—!"

The next instant, Kale gets the wind knocked out of him by Gabby's punch and he goes to his four knees. If that isn't enough, Gabby uses her pointer claw to slash a deep cut from the top of his head down to where his snout fur meets his leathery nose, creating a permanent and visible scar. Kale almost suffocates at being unable to scream in reaction to the pain his face just took. By the time he can breathe again, he lets out a long groan.

Gabby: "Not entirely foolin' with you's. But we's even now."

Note: "Ay dios mío" means "Oh my God" in Spanish.

Luciano (to Leo and Emmy): "You's just gonna let 'er do that ta our hermanito?"

Leo: "Remember, Luciano, dat wolves don't forgive. We get even. And now Track has a scar he can show off to da ladies."

Kale (while rubbing the side of his muzzle to soothe it): "Eragh!" (Looks at Gabby) "N-no hard feelings, Gabby. Really, I mean it. And I desoived it for what I did ta you's, and for whatever repercussions dat had on our pack."

Gabby notes how Track has suddenly become a glutton for punishment, which was something he never was before.

Gabby: "I believe ya, Track. And you's bet ya's sorry hide you desoived it."

Kale (sternly and while leaning into Gabby's face): "Rub it in anymore, and it'll be a just cause for me ta do da same ta you's."

Gabby furrows her brow at the sudden assertiveness Track had used to speak to her. And he's right, so she nods while humming "Hm," since speaking would have tempted her to say something she would regret. But Bugsy and Luciano are glad that their little brother has finally stood up to Gabby in a proper way. Apparently, his time being the prey animal family's slave driver has strengthened his will.

Wanting to change the subject, Bonnie says, "We was just talkin' about one of da long-term causes of what ya's failed hunt did ta our pack. We were attacked by da Rock-Busters, den had ta fight foxes and the Side-Winder Wolf Pack when dey tried ta take over our Areas 1 and 3. We won, of course, but I won't be able ta participate in many hunts for a while."

Kale: "Why's dat?"

Bonnie (blushes): "I'm pregnant."

Kale: "You're—! We-ell! Way ta go, Bonnie! You too, Clyde!"

Clyde (rubs his chest with a forepaw in self-aggrandizement): "Weren't nothin', kid." (Looks at Kale seriously) "So it's a good ting ya came back, 'cuz you's gotta fill in for Bonnie until our pups don't gotta be weaned no more."

Leo: "Ta do that, you's need anoth'a coming-of-age hunt." (With steel behind his words) "And dis time, don't mess it up."

Kale (slowly nods yes): "I won't let any of you's down anymore. I mean it. My time with da prey animal family made me betta und'a'stand how prey critters think. For starters—"

Leo: "You're hunt'll have ta wait, Track. We gotta tighten our hold on Area 3 before we try ta expand. You's also need da time ta think of a betta huntin' plan for ya'self."

Kale: "I get ya."

Leo: "So we've got Dillinger and Bugsy in on coming ta Area 3 for a meeting with our paisanos ta find out who's loyal and who isn't. Track volunteered too, and maybe ya's nose will serve as a good lie detector. We only need one more, so who else wants ta come?"

Capone: "I'm sure dat my smarts will help me narrow down da suspects."

Leo: "Good, so it's settled. We leave in five minutes, the rest of ya's will stay and guard our home. And Track? The rest of us have agreed not ta go blurting out dat Bonnie's expectin' pups, and make sure you's do the same. Word'll reach oth'a predators and they'll think Bonnie won't be in pique condition ta fight, which'll only encourage 'em ta try to attack."

Kale: "Yes, Leo."

Leo: "Now go do what ya gotta do ta get ready, folks."

The wolves break like a football team huddle, and Kale makes his way over to his brothers to ask them something that's been bothering him ever since he arrived back. With the exception of Gabby, the reception he has received has been too positive. He expected more insults (being called "Track" notwithstanding), a beating for ipso facto causing trouble in two of their territories, serious interrogations, and a test to prove he hasn't lost his touch. No one even talked about going to check on the family of prey animals he was with for three months to ensure they're really dead. So there has to be a reason for it.

Kale: "Luciano? Bugsy? Why is da pack treatin' me so well? I mean, Leo let me join in on da next mission without battin' an eye. Dare's somethin' goin' on, and I wanna know it."

Luciano: "You really have gotten smarter, Kale. The reason da pack's not too mad at ya's and isn't treatin' ya's bad is 'cuz we told 'em to."

Bugsy: "It wasn't easy ta convince 'em, though, even when we reminded 'em how da pack's observations of ya's proved you weren't a failure...*Sigh* We had ta make a deal with Leo."

Now Kale is really worried because making deals is Bugsy's specialty, and he spoke with unease when telling him of a deal he made with his own godfather.

Kale: "What'dya mean?"

Luciano (points to himself then Bugsy): "Us two made a deal with Leo for 'im ta let bygones be bygones in regards to ya's failure, and ta let you's take a more prominent role in da pack's 'business practices.' But ta do dat, we promised Leo that you's would improve ya'self twice as fast. If ya don't, then you and us will be kicked outta da pack."

Kale gasps softly while widening his eyes, then says, "You's would be willin' ta risk ya'selves for me?"

Bugsy: "It was dee only way, Kale."

Kale: "I-I...Thank you. You's truly are my hermanos after all. Which reminds me, I'm sorry for bein' mean ta ya's when ya's tried ta bring me back. You's really did care about me dat night, just like ya's proved now dat you still do—"

Luciano (raises his paw in a stop gesture): "Kale. We can't express enough the seriousness of this. No one in this pack expects you to improve more than Bugsy and me. If you don't become a true Bone-Chomper and get us three kicked out, we'll disown you."

Kale notices how Luciano didn't say a single slang word or use improper contractions, meaning his oldest brother isn't fooling around. Still, he can't help but feel betrayed.

Kale: "Why would ya's make such a deal without my consent? And what ever happened ta 'Family comes before da pack'?"

Bugsy: "Well—"

Leo: "Time for us ta go guys. Let's move out to Area 3."

Bugsy: "I'll tell ya on the way, Kale."

Bugsy and Kale join in with Leo, Dillinger, and Capone, and the five wolves move out.


The terrain of the Bone-Chompers' puzzle-piece-shaped Area 3 is mostly flat, with numerous trees and a large creek running along its western border. It is 15 acres and home to numerous types of animals. Kale should have been full of pride and feeling like a bigshot as he walks through the territory and receives numerous gasps and shudders from prey animals, but is instead brooding about Bugsy's explanation as to why Luciano and he didn't consult Kale before the two older brothers made their deal with Leo.

They had to make it before Kale returned because it would otherwise mean he'd get beaten and relentlessly chewed out by the rest of the pack for as long as it takes for him to prove he's a true Bone-Chomper. Kale was actually alright with that because he was in no mood to listen to anymore teasing, but wasn't okay with not having a say in the deal. Kale knew that his input would have helped work things out for the better of everyone. However, Bugsy explained that Kale's young age and "unseasoned" brain would have prevented him from making a sound decision. Kale was not only angry at the belittlement, but also because he didn't want Bugsy and Luciano's place in the pack to be put on the line along with his own. Now that it is on the line, Kale will be under more pressure than ever before to meet the codes of wolf society.

And the explanation as to why his brothers would willingly agree to a deal that involved disowning him for failure was even worse. Bugsy and Luciano told him about the ordeal they went through after the run-in with the late Rock-Busters, how it was truly Kale's fault for the injuries certain pack members suffered, and how it proved that Leo is always right about everything; they really didn't want the latter to be true, but it is so, they can't argue.

According to Luciano and Bugsy, Leo being right even included how the Sniff-Tracker family's motto doesn't apply to the Bone-Chomper Pack. Therefore, as the best wolf pack in America, the pack's glory should come first before family. Admittedly, Kale had a similar revelation during his time with the hedgies where he affirmed he could never be a Sniff-Tracker and must become a Bone-Chomper to please his dead parents, but any fate besides disownment (and death) would be a better punishment for failure.

Then again, the reason they agreed to the prospect of disownment is because it would leave no room for failure, and Kale would have to push himself as hard as he can to succeed now. Kale told Bugsy he would have done that without the fear being disowned, because he truly cares about becoming a true Bone-Chomper now that he has returned. But although Bugsy said he believed Kale (and that Luciano would agree too if he had come along), the rest of the pack, and especially Leo, needed a surefire way to make their pack ascend back to its original glory.

So there is nothing Kale can do except try—no, do—his hardest and become a true Bone-Chomper just as he intended all along. Only now he'll have to grow sooner than expected. He shouldn't feel too blue, but for some reason he just can't shake off the weight of betrayal he is carrying in his heart. Why, after everything he and his brothers had talked about, and after successfully deceiving the whole pack of his improved abilities as a wolf, do his brothers still pick Leo's side? It's not right and he wants to make them realize their mistake, but if he is to become a real Bone-Chomper he needs to simply keep those feelings bottled up inside him for later. Right now he has to get his head in the game and pay close attention to how the other four wolves handle the situation, because they now arrive at the meeting spot where the paisanos are waiting.

Kale has been here before when he was younger as he observed Bugsy making the deal with the paisanos, but only now, after his three months of recovery time, does he realize the meeting area is identical to the main living space of the hedgies. The ground is flat, grassy, has a log in the center, and trees surrounding the perimeter. If those similarities weren't striking enough, the paisanos are composed of various types of animals, each with their own special abilities that give them ways they can be the perfect observers by land, water, air, tree top, and even underground.

By ascending to this level in (1) the Bone-Chomper Pack's extensions of will, they have each earned the honorific (1) title of "paisano." It fosters the illusion that the (1) prey animals present are family and thus makes them appear stronger to outsiders (1). Unfortunately, appearance is not always the truth (1). One of them at the circle is a (1) traitor.

Leo does not know why the traitor worked (1) against the pack s/he served, and he does not particularly care (1). Everybody spies on everybody in this business, it is a given, but the fact that it is normal does not mean that you let it pass when you find it (1).

Now, at the beginning of this meeting he has nine (1) paisanos. At the end of the meeting, he will have eight (1) paisanos. But first, the normal business of the Bone-Chomper Wolf Pack must be attended to and properly settled (1).

Female Otter: "Attention folks! Our bosses are here."

The nine paisanos stand up and salute. They don't move an inch and allow each of the wolves to come file in between two paisanos, one on the canines' left and the other on their right. The paisanos are already in a circle, and from a bird's eye view, Leo goes to the spot in the front, Bugsy to the right, Capone to the left, Kale at the bottom, and Dillinger gets behind Leo.

Leo: "At ease."

The paisanos sit normally, their efficiency and obedience reminding Kale how great it is to be a wolf.

Leo: "It's good ta see all'uv you's." (Sarcastically) "Hope ya've been doin' well, yadda, yadda. (Normal tone) "You know me, so let's cut dee intro. I will have your reports (1). Paisano Milton?"

Milton is a male mole with black fur; a nobody like all the paisanos, which helps them blend in better with the rest of the prey animals in the territory. Unbeknown to Kale and his pack, Milton was an ally of the hedgies who had helped them during the "Return of the Sniffer Incident" several years ago. He had become involved with the Bone-Chompers when a shortage of his staple diet of earthworms ran low and he was desperate to find food. Wherever he went, other moles (as well as other animals that ate worms) were competition for his food source. Desperate, he sought the Bone-Chomper Wolf Pack upon hearing rumors of how certain prey animals worked for them and got benefits. Bugsy made a deal in which the pack would guarantee Milton would never go hungry again, and Milton would do whatever the pack commanded in return. What Bugsy didn't mention was that the wolves' way of ensuring Milton never went hungry again was killing the mole family already inhabiting the best worm spot in Area 3. Milton was distraught when he discovered this, and was loathed by all prey animals in Area 3 for being under the Bone-Chompers' protection, which enabled him to hog the worms for himself. But he didn't complain because he now went to sleep every day with his belly full.

Milton: "Godfather Leo (1), the mole population here continues to check and repair your secret passage every night, makes sure the numerous entrances/exits never cave in, and keeps all subterranean creatures from inhabiting it. Those who dare try are dealt with by the venomous snakes. There have been four attempts this month, and each was resolved within 30 minutes. I must apologize, of course, for the recent and temporary takeover of the underground passage by the group of foxes, who used the tunnel during the day when all moles were sleeping. By the time night fell, they already controlled all of Area 3. But I am certain a mole wasn't the one who told the foxes about the passage, because my brethren here depend on my surplus of worms, that you so generously gave me, for their survival. They have no choice but to follow my orders, which are yours by extension."

Leo nods (1). Milton would always be too much a coward to risk death by betraying his (1) boss. His whole species is that way (1).

Leo: "Paisano Kyle?" (1)

Kyle is a raccoon with gray fur, a black mask, and green eyes who was once a food-finding slave for a stoat who threatened to murder his mate and three daughters if he and his family didn't give the mustelid 50 percent of the food they obtained. When they failed to meet their quota a few weeks before winter, the stoat killed Kyle's oldest daughter and hunted the fleeing raccoon family who traveled through trees as much as possible to avoid the stoat. When the raccoons were forced to go on the ground to forage, the stoat tried to finish them off but was killed by Gabby who, like her mother, decided to make the mustelid her "special prey." Unlike Emmy, Gabby didn't give the stoat a chance to run before hunting him, she just killed him on the spot. Kyle's family couldn't hold back their gratitude and offered to do anything to repay Gabby for killing their tormentor. They accepted the deal to become paisanos, and have ever since been living a life free of predators from attacking them and keeping all the food they find. After his time with the hedgies, Kale now realizes that Kyle's relationship is similar to the one between RJ and Vincent, meaning the wolf might actually feel sad if Kyle turns out to be a traitor because it will be like killing RJ.

Kyle begins to rattle off his (1) meticulous jargon of statistics (1) and percentages of how the raccoon and possum populations in Area 3 haven't been taking more than their share of lesser animals for meals, and thus have not been eating the Bone-Chompers' food sources. Those who did were either banished or killed. Leo watches him, listening (1). The godfather knows that Kyle is too smart to try to cross the Bone-Chompers (1).

The raccoon finishes his report (1).

Leo: "Paisano Kaitlyn?" (1)

Kaitlyn the otter flashes a (1) sinister grin that seems to stretch ear to ear, and starts her recitation (1). She tells the pack of how well the aquatic and amphibious animals that inhabit the creek in Area 3 have been doing in keeping the water as clean as possible, and in serving as the territory's first line of defense on the western border. She was most unsatisfied with the incompetence of the water-dwelling animals in their failed attempts to stop the foxes' invasion, and ordered the deaths of those she considered responsible—including their families, no matter how old or young the kids were—to prevent any future attempts at revenge. No prey animal in Area 3 was as evil as Kaitlyn, and her cruelty could give lessons even to wolves.

But she was not always like this. Out of all the paisanos, her story is the most complex.

Note: (1)=Based on Star Wars: Shadows of the Empire by Steve Perry.


She started out as one of the sweetest, most gentle, and admittedly naïve, otters in Area 3. She was a devoted mate and mother who didn't mind how her marriage was the antiquated husband doing all the work and the stay-at-home and submissive wife.

She had come into the Bone-Chompers' service as a result of a really bad day. One day when her mate hadn't returned from foraging 30 minutes after he said he would, Kaitlyn had left home to forage when she discovered her mate had been cheating on her with her best friend who had become pregnant with his new kids. If that wasn't enough, she returned home to find that a family of beavers had taken over her family's dwelling while she took so long to get back after discovering and divorcing her adulterous mate. The beavers had also beaten up her son and daughter when they tried to fight back.

The feeling of being powerless to do anything about her mate and the beavers in a way that would satisfy her anger drove Kaitlyn mad. As she and her kids wandered to find food, Kaitlyn was in such a bad mood that when Kale had shoved her out of the way while directing the Bone-Chompers on a hunt using his nose, which was the straw that broke her back, she cussed out and bit and clawed into the first wolf she could get her paws on—which happened to be Leo. Upon realizing just who she had harassed, she was asked what her last words were, and responded by welcoming death and ranted about how awful her life was. She demanded to be killed and stated that her only regret was that she wouldn't be able to finish off her husband, ex-best friend, and the beavers who took over her home. Intrigued, the Bone-Chompers decided that someone with an attitude such as Kaitlyn's would be more useful alive than dead, and agreed to make her wishes come true if she would swear allegiance to them. She accepted without hesitation, and no word could describe the satisfaction she felt at watching the deaths of those who had ruined her life.

Her kids were alright with the beavers' fate, but couldn't believe Kaitlyn would have their father killed, even if he was an unfaithful jerk. She tried to say she did it for all three of them, but even her kids knew that she did it only for herself, and called her out for it. Her son and daughter didn't want to stay with such a selfish and suddenly cruel mother, even when she tried to convince them that the Bone-Chompers would give them everything they could ever dream of. They ran away and never came back, leaving Kaitlyn alone.

However, the damage to her psyche had been done, and once she tasted the power that revenge had brought her, she never wanted to let that incredible feeling go. For anything...not even her own kids. She is now queen of the creek in Area 3, and keeps all the water-dwelling animals in line with the Bone-Chomper Pack's rules. And no one dares to walk all over her again; it is she who walks all over others.


Because of this, Leo knows the otter has no ambition to rise any higher, and is content with her job and the status quo (1).

One by one Leo calls for the (1) paisanos to speak, and one by one the rest of them do (1). There is Wilbur the muskrat who assisted Kyle in keeping the inhabitants of the northern side of Area 3 under the thumb of the Bone-Chompers as a result of proving his loyalty to the wolves by killing his closer-than-brother cousin whom he had assisted in co-founding a prey animal resistance against their wolf rulers. Wilbur feared for his mate's and kids' lives and blew the whistle on the resistance group. His mate and children weren't too happy that he would sacrifice his own cousin, but had forgiven him instantly once they started to receive the lavish benefits of land, authority, and protection from the Bone-Chompers. They were living like royalty and loved it, not to mention they rubbed it in everyone else's faces. They could never hope to achieve that on their own, and certainly wouldn't want to give it up by betraying the wolves.

Next is Jessabelle the female raven who kept a literal bird's eye view of Area 3's avians in particular, and other animals in general. She had been saved by the Bone-Chompers from being killed while she tried to get revenge for the Rock-Buster Pack when they hired some squirrels to knock her eggs out of her nest. She had been blinded by vengeance and gotten herself in a situation she couldn't have escaped from alive. But when the Bone-Chompers saved her, she, her mate, and their five new raven chicks can live in true comfort and security...so long as they do the Bone-Chompers' bidding.

Arthur the male gray squirrel had once been the reason many prey animals in Area 3 were able to avoid the Bone-Chompers when the wolves were on the hunt before they controlled the territory. But after being threatened with death by Jessabelle, Bugsy, who had been on the ground following the raven, ordered her to stop and offered the squirrel a chance at "redemption." Arthur and his family now do the exact opposite of what he did before: serve as scouts for the Bone-Chompers' hunts.

Cliff the male skunk joined the paisanos when his will had been broken from living in constant fear of Dillinger coming to kill him in retaliation for spraying the wolf. The Black Wolf Ghost never told Cliff when it would happen, and the paranoia and anticipation was too much for the skunk to bear. He was willing to do anything to stop the stress that kept him awake for weeks. Threats of his stink proved to be quite useful in keeping marauding predators away from Area 3's southern border, and keeping that place's inhabitants from doing anything the Bone-Chompers wouldn't like.

Morgan was the biggest weasel of a weasel there ever was; always scamming and scheming others in ways that benefited her alone. She also had a knack for selling out animals to predators, and when many prey animals banded together to kill her, she offered her services to the Bone-Chompers who, having heard of her exploits, agreed to kill her pursuers. Always sagacious, Morgan works in tandem with Jessabelle in discovering just how loyal prey animals really are in Area 3's center portion, and is responsible for the deaths of many who had been unfaithful, which is a price she considered well worth paying for the protection of herself, her mate, and unborn children.

And last, there is Harry the eight-point male deer who had been a "pet" of sorts for a wolverine far up north. The wolverine had been Harry's secret friend during their toddler years, but once the young fawn and kit learned about the laws of predator and prey, the mustelid's outlook on their relationship changed. He couldn't bring himself to kill his friend (but never told the deer that), but he did make Harry his servant, and the deer had no choice but to obey or else get eaten (again, not knowing the wolverine wouldn't actually do it). A few years into when the relationship changed from servant to slave, Harry decided he had had enough, and killed his ex-friend in his sleep. He traveled far and wide and found a herd that suited his needs in Indiana. The herd was a popular target for wolves and other predators, but this group of deer could effectively fight back thanks to their smart and strong leader. Harry placed his full trust in his friends to keep him and his mate safe, but when Harry's mate went into labor while the herd was fleeing the Bone-Chompers after losing their leader, the other deer decided to leave Harry and Sonya to get eaten by the wolves while they fled away to safety. Feeling betrayed and extremely bitter, Harry decided it was better to serve under other predators than to live among his own kind, and helped the Bone-Chompers hunt down his herd.

Though considered a supreme traitor to his species and all prey animals, Harry and his family take comfort in the protection the Bone-Chompers provide, and help keep tabs and order on the western side of Area 3. All the while, Harry can—and often has—ended the lives of those who ever call him or his family "wolf pets." Demonstrating he has a dry sense of humor, he insists to such arrogant prey animals that he be called a "goon," and makes them realize that just before they die from his sharpened antlers.

It takes ten minutes for all the paisanos to give their reports, which are satisfying to say the least. It is hard (1) for Leo to believe any of his paisanos would be so foolish (1) to betray him and his pack; after all, one could not get to this elevated position without years of loyal effort (1). And yet here it is (1). Life is full of treachery (1).

Leo: "A final item on our agenda, my paisanos. One of ya's number has seen fit ta use his or her standing ta betray us (1).

He lets them sit and worry for a few moments (1). Then he nods at (1) Dillinger. His most trusted (1) hitwolf begins to walk around the seated paisanos (1). They all have their own (1) ears, and they all know at least what Leo had allowed them to find out about the traitor—not much save that there is one (1).

Leo: "Not content with da (1) prestige he 'r she has made by my largesse, dee (1) food, land, protection, and authority dat all of you's indulge ya'selves in, this...(1) animal has dishonored da title of paisano." (1)

Dillinger strolls behind the seated paisanos slowly (1). Leo watches them (1). Those who can, sweat or flush, or otherwise show signs of fear they cannot hide (1). And although Dillinger keeps his facial expression blank, he is indulging in the fear that Kale swears the Black Wolf Ghost seems to be feeding off of. Meanwhile, Kale is also using his nose to smell who is giving off the most fear, which will determine who the traitor is. Dillinger passes Kaitlyn, Wilbur, Jessabelle, reaches the other end of the circle and goes around it (1). Having done something like this before, Kale blinks once to let Dillinger know who is clean, and will blink twice to indicate who the target is. Furthermore, Capone double checks Kale's silent confirmations by giving Dillinger a nod.

Leo continues speaking, slowly, evenly, betraying nothing in his tone (1).

Leo: "Dare are (1) prey animals among ya's ranks who would cheerfully (1) murder dare own families ta be given such an opportunity as you have all been given. Ta be a paisano of the Bone-Chomper Pack is ta enjoy more power dan all but a handful of animals in dee entire world." (1)

Dillinger passes Arthur, passes Kyle, passes Harry, then Milton. Pauses a moment behind Morgan (1) when Kale blinks with his right eye and then his left, just as Capone gives an angry expression while nodding. Tension thickens in the (1) meeting space, becomes almost tangible (1). Leo thinks that is a nice touch (1). However, Morgan is nobody's fool and would never risk herself as a (1) traitor. No, the weasel has ambition enough for ten; she would go for an all-out coup (1), not a simple betrayal. Having Dillinger pause behind her lets her know Leo will be keeping an eye on her (1). A warning that she should think long and carefully before trying to climb her lofty plateau to the top of the mountain (1) that is the spot of the most favored paisano. Unsurprisingly, that currently belongs to Kaitlyn, and the female otter uses two fingers to point at her eyes then at the weasel to silently say she'll be watching the mustelid too.

The Black Wolf Ghost wolf saunters past Cliff, then Arthur (1). After seeing Kale blink and Capone nod, he stops behind Harry the deer (1).

Leo smiles (1).

Harry tries to stand, but Dillinger is incredibly fast (1). He latches his mouth onto the spot where the chin meets the neck to prevent the Cervidae from using his antlers in defense. Dillinger also ferociously starts clawing the rest of Harry's long neck. The deer makes a sound like a grunt, bleat, and gasp combined, the noise becoming fainter and more infrequent the longer Dillinger's hold is maintained.

A long time passes and none of the paisanos move (1). When Harry is (1) dead, Dillinger releases him, and he falls forward; his head thumps loudly upon the (1) ground.

Leo: "I will accept nominations for a new paisano now." (1)

Nobody speaks for a moment, and Leo keeps his (1) muzzled face bland (1). A pity about Harry; of all the paisanos, he was one of the (1) most formidable. But (1) after being the slave of one predator, it only makes sense that he would eventually grow tired of serving under other predators and seek for a way out. However, a paisano who tries to leave his/her area is considered the same as outright betraying the Bone-Chompers, so helping the foxes take over Area 3 would have provided Harry with the perfect chance to run away.

Leo looks at his paisanos again, waits for them to speak (1).

Here is an object lesson they will certainly remember (1): crossing the Bone-Chompers means death (1). Never forget that (1).

Note (1)=Based on Star Wars: Shadows of the Empire by Steve Perry.


Kale kept his feelings hidden, but both the meeting with the paisanos and killing Sonya along with her five-year-old daughter had unsettled him. Normally it wouldn't, since he has killed many times before. However, the various animals that were the paisanos, their histories, and the place in which the meeting took place was like a reflection of the various types of animals, the pasts, and the living place that the hedgies had. So to Kale, killing Harry and his mate and daughter, was the closest thing he will ever experience to killing one of his former caretakers. And he was responsible, because his nose detected the scent of fear that only came when someone is afraid of being discovered as a traitor.

The only thing that erased the feeling of discomfort was how good it felt to eat fresh, live meat again. Kale doesn't think it tastes as good as refrigerated meat, but the warmth of live meat was something he can never get enough of. Sadly, he couldn't enjoy too much of it. Even though he was pretty hungry, he didn't eat a lot because his pack members might question how he could be that hungry after he theoretically ate 33 prey animals. He had to keep the charade going, for his sake as much as the hedgies'.

After finishing their business in Area 3, Bugsy opted to take his little brother for another meeting with a snake from Area 1, which the two are on their way to see right now.

Bugsy: "Ya gotta see how ta intimidate oth'as and reaffirm deals ya've made in a one-on-one setting."

Kale: "I did somethin' like dat already with the prey animal family."

Bugsy: "True, but you's had a hostage dose times. And as good as ya did then, you's were still in the beginnin' stages. I'm showin' ya how experts do it, without hostages."

Kale: "So should I hide and watch, or ya want me ta be with ya?"

Bugsy: "Hide and watch."

Kale: "Sí, hermano mayor."

Note: "hermano mayor" means "big brother" in Spanish.

A few moments pass before Bugsy speaks again.

Bugsy: "So how'd dey taste? Dat family who treated ya's wounds?"

Kale: "Delicious...'cept for da skunk and 'er hybrid offspring. And I just buried da parts of the porcupines I couldn't swallow."

Bugsy: "How'd ya get the drop on 'em?"

Kale: "Killed 'em in dare sleep, of course."

Bugsy stops walking, faces his brother, and eyes him suspiciously while asking, "Weren't dey sleepin' in da trees?"

Kale: "Oh yeah. Somethin' dat happened when da pack wasn't evesdroppin' on me, apparently, was when I told 'em how hard it was ta be a wolf and all da downsides about my life. I did it ta give dee impression dat I was a tragic n' tormented soul who only needed love back in my life. Dey fell for it, of course, and got comfortable enough ta sleep in da log with me."

Bugsy: "Emmy's latest observation of ya said ya lorded 'em over while defeating a bear. How did they go from acceptin' ya to hatin' and fearin' ya again?"

Kale raises his eyebrow at an inconsistency that could be real trouble for him if his answer isn't smart. Fortunately, he thinks of a fool-proof answer and says it as if he anticipated his brother's question all along.

Kale (with an attitude): "Dat talk happened after da bear. And why're you's askin'? Don't ya trust my word enough, hermano mayor?"

Bugsy (puts a forepaw up in defense): "Hey, hey. Obtener un apretón, hermanito. All wolves're supposed ta be great at lyin', and I wanted ta ensure—da whole pack wanted ta ensure—that you's weren't lyin' to 'em whenever they came ta observe you."

Note: "Obtener un apretón" means "Get a grip" in Spanish.

Kale: "But why would I ev'a do that ta you? Really?"

Bugsy: "I'm just bein' sure is all. You don't think we haven't noticed how fed-up you's can get with livin' in da pack? You's don't think ya's own brothers haven't noticed?"

Kale: "Well...You and Luciano showed you's did when ya tried ta bring me back home, and then agreed ta take me back to da prey animals. But one of da reasons I was so harsh on da prey was 'cuz I could finally let out all'uv my negative feelin's I've been holdin' in."

Bugsy: "It's und'a'standable, given you's age. But you've proven how mature you can be, and now must be mature about bein' okay livin' back in a pack where you's ain't da top dog anymore."

Kale: "Yeah, I know."

Bugsy: "And I'm sorry for da interrogation. Just remember I'm just as worried about myself now as I am for you's ever since makin' dat deal with Leo."

Kale nods and the two continue on their way in silence. A few minutes later, when they can hear the sound of a running creek, Bugsy uses a forepaw to tell Kale to stop and hide in a bush located off to the side that will give him a good view of everything, to which the teenager obeys. Bugsy goes forward to the creek bed, swims across it, and starts scaling up the hill made of boulders on the opposite end. He stops halfway up (20 feet) and puts his muzzle close to a small gap that's too small for anything besides a snake to squeeze in and out of.

Bugsy: "Hey Willy-Will! It's you's ol' pally-pal, Bugsy-Wugsy! Come on out an' have a chat, man."

Voice: "I really wish you'd call me, 'William.' Willy-Will just sounds ssssso kiddie-like."

Bugsy: "I referred ta myself as 'Bugsy-Wugsy' ta balance it out. You're welcome for doin' that. But we's gotta talk about business; know what I'm sayin'?"

William's voice: "Yesss. Very well."

Bugsy backs up and allows the three foot long snake to emerge from his dwelling. William is a northern copperhead and has numerous dark brown hourglass-shaped patterns lining his predominantly light brown-colored body. His eyes are golden and his reptilian slit pupils are black.

Bugsy: "Let's head ta solid ground, deese heights give me da heebie-jeebies."

William: "What'ssss wrong, Bugsssy? Need to have an advantage in case thingsss don't turn out as you'd like them to?"

Kale sees the brief widening of his brother's eyes and knows that it can only mean the snake has a good idea of what this meeting is really about. But proving that he is an intelligent wolf, with years' worth of deal-making experience, Bugsy finds a compromise.

Bugsy: "How 'bout we still go down ta ground level, but you's get ta stay on top of a boulder."

William flicks his forked tongue once and smiles when it retracts back into his mouth.

William: "Worksss for me."

The canine and reptile get down and sit at the spots they agreed on. Kale notes that the snake's spot is in the perfect altitude and distance with which to strike, and William's venom will only take one bite to kill Bugsy. At the same time, Bugsy can easily attack the reptile with a bite or claw slash, and knowing Bugsy's strength and speed, it will be a one-hit-kill as well. Alternatively, William can crawl into a small hole in the boulder, and Bugsy has plenty of room to dodge. It's a win-win situation for both animals as they can both land fatal blows, counterattack, and flee. This is undoubtedly the first thing Bugsy would want Kale to know if he ever conducted his own business meeting in the future: even the odds for both parties.

Bugsy: "So how's it been goin'? Gimme the short version, though, I'm kinda inna hurry."

William: "Alright. The kidsss are doing well, and they're living with my former mate. Food hasss been good in quality and quantity, and I've lately been ssseeing a really nicccce lady sssnake."

Bugsy: "Good on ya, Willy-Will. I've been doin' alright too. My pack's been makin' some real progress in restorin' our damaged reputation, my lil' bro returned ta my pack today, we reestablished our hold on Area 3, and now I' gettin' ta talk ta you's."

William (sarcastically): "Glad I can help make your day."

Bugsy: "It's not just lil' ol' me you's'll be helpin' out, it's dee entire Bone-Chomper Wolf Pack."

William: "Everything I do isss in ssservice to your pack."

The subtle upturn of the right side of Bugsy's muzzle lets Kale know that Bugsy has been waiting for William to say something like that all along. Or is it William who is directing the conversation now? Whatever the case, Kale is now on the edge of his nonexistent seat, but his brother seems calm as can be. There's another lesson: don't let your business partner know of your unease, and maintain your poker face at all times.

Bugsy: " 'Course it is. Dare's no doubt dat someone like you's, a fellow predator, would disappoint me and my pack in da slightest." (Extends a forepaw to the side in a friendly manner) "I'm just here ta—"

William lunges forward with lightning-fast speed with an aggressive-sounding hiss, His fangs are extending outward to their fullest length and already dripping venom to ensure he will score a venomous bite. Kale is't too surprised. He noticed the conversation's shift, and being a snake, it is only natural that William would be sneaky and devious.

But this snake isn't sneaky enough.

Bugsy has not only been expecting William to attack him, he has been counting on it. The wolf knew that if he kept talking, he'd give the serpent the impression that he would get caught up in a monologue like a cliché dumb movie villain, thus unintentionally providing William an opening for a surprise attack. But this isn't a movie and Bugsy isn't dumb.

Anticipating that the snake would attack when it appeared as if Bugsy would go off on a tangent—as indicated by the raising of his forepaw—the wolf ducks with the same quickness as the snake strikes. The snake was aiming for his face, so Bugsy doesn't have to lower his already-raised right forepaw. In fact, he uses that appendage to grab the snake by the neck. Using the serpent's momentum Bugsy slams William into the ground face-first, then does it again and again.


Watching from behind the bush, Kale recalls when Mary had pulled a fast one on Bernard; letting him make the first move, keeping herself talking, and then following up with her own plan to defeat him by using his own tactic against him.

Kale blinks in surprise.

Kale thinking: "Why can't I stop thinkin' about 'em?"

He knows he has to, if he wants to remain in his pack. Kale is fully aware that if the truth were to ever get out—that he willingly let the hedgies fix him up, intentionally deceived his pack about how he ruled over them, found them as the closest thing to a loving family he has ever had since his parents had died, and lied about killing them—he will be banished from all wolf society. Moreover, if he can't stop thinking about them, he will miss them and want to go back to them, which will only increase the risk of the truth getting out.

Kale thinking: "If you's do ever think about 'em again, just remember how ya's own knowledge about da world of prey animals will help you's become a betta wolf."

He ends his thoughts there and redirects his attention to Bugsy who is still pummeling William on the ground like a toy.


The sound of William groaning deliriously is the cue for Bugsy to stop, so he brings the snake up to eye level. He continues holding William by the neck with his right paw, which prevents the reptile from biting the wolf, and has his claws from the left paw close the snake's throat.

Bugsy: "You done messed it up, didn't you's?!"

William: "I didn't messss up! I jussst didn't want you to kill me after I gave the map to you!"

Bugsy: "Dat wasn't on my agenda...Never was. But now I know you's tried ta commit premeditated murder, looks like my plans've changed a bit, if ya's know what I mean. You can give me what I's came for and live without my pack's protection, or you can die."

Bugsy leans forward and regards—with growing satisfaction—the other animal (1) in his clutches. The feeling is a kind of satisfaction that comes just before even stronger, more pleasurable feelings: the savoring of triumph and the satisfaction of one's appetite (1). He can almost taste them, like the sweet saltiness of blood leaking through his (1) canine fangs.

William: "Are you crazy? I thought you wanted to do businesss?" (1)

Bugsy: "Dat's what dis is." (1) (Raises his left claws a fraction of an inch higher) "Consider it my final offer." (1)

William: "You are crazy." (1)

The look Bugsy gives causes the blood in William's veins, never warmer than the surrounding (1) temperature, to suddenly chill (1).

William: "Look...let'sss think about thisss."

Bugsy (even tone): "Dare's no need to (1). It's a straightforward proposition (1). Hand over da (1) map of da route you's discovered dat'll make my pack's next attempt at expandin' our territory more successful, and I won't kill ya's (1). What could be fairer dan that? (1) Mutually rewardin' as well: I'd have what I's came for, and you'll still be alive (1). Even if you's wouldn't be und'a the Bone-Chompers' protection anymore, dat's betta than dying."

The gears in William's head slowly start moving again (1) when he speaks.

William: "But...but look at the chanccce you're taking (1). I don't have what you're talking about right here on me (1). I mean, I'm a sssnake I don't have anything to carry it with besssides me wrapping around it like a boa constrictor, which isssn't my style. And even if I could carry it, you think I'd haul (1) a valuable piecccce of paper around with me? No way." (1) (Shakes head vigorously) "I've got it well hidden, sssomeplace where nobody elssse would be able to find it." (1)

Bugsy: "Whatev'as been hidden can be found again." (1)

William (words starting to come out faster): "Maybe ssso, but not without a lot of sssearching (1). And that would take time; time that you don't have right now (1). You sssaid it yourssself, just a couple of minutesss ago, you came here in a hurry (1). That mussst mean you've got to get your pawsss on that ssstuff real quick. You kill me now, and that'sss not gonna happen (1). You'll be ssstuck here (1) in this 20-acre foressst, rooting through every possssible place that I could have ssstashed the (1) map. And maybe you won't ever find it (1). Think about that." (1)

William gives a quick nod, his (1) flicking tongue almost brushing against the pads on (1) Bugsy's forepaw claws.

William: "Then what'll you do? (1) You won't be getting any help from me, if I'm already dead." (1)

Bugsy: "Good point." (1)

Despite his agreement, the wolf's claws remain where they are (1) up against the snake's neck, Bugsy's paw is unwavering (1).

Bugsy: "But not good enough. Do da math, William. If I kill you's now, I might indeed have only'a small chance of findin' what I came here for (1). But all your chances'll be over (1). What's inconvenient for me will be terminal for you's." (1) (Flexes his claws that are a centimeter from unleashing their (1) shearing power) "Dare's nothin' left ta discuss (1). So, what's it gonna be?" (1)

The darkly shining nails in the other (1) paw mesmerizes William (1). He has looked straight at death before—in the life of an animal, it is a regular occurrence—but never with such certainty as now (1). The pulse in his veins seems to stop, along with time itself (1). William's throat has gone dry as the (1) Sahara Desert. Even though he's being held tightly, his body slumps down.

William: "All right...I'll..." (1)

The next words catch in his throat as though they are too big to dislodge (1).

William: "I'll go ahead and..." (1)

If the snake had fists on the tip of his tail, they would be digging ragged grooves into the (1) dirt beneath him. For a moment longer William remains paralyzed, then he finds himself slowly shaking his head (1).

William (flatly): "No I won't. I won't do it." (1)

Bugsy's claws don't move, but a minute fraction of surprise sounds in his voice as he says "What did you's say?" (1)

William: "You heard me." (1)

William's heart is racing now; his vision blurred with the increased pressure for a moment, then he manages to bring Bone-Chomper Bugsy's image into focus again (1).

William: "I'm not going to do it (1). I'm not going to give you the map I found (1) from a human hunter."

The reptile raises up his (1) slender body and uses his tail to point to where his heart is located, offering an additional target (1). When he speaks, there is a certain elation that comes from his words; William feels absolutely free for the first time in his life (1).

William: "Go ahead and (1) ssslice me. I don't care (1). That'sss how you alwaysss won before (1). It was becaussse you didn't care whether you lived or died, or whether you won or lossst (1). Ssso you alwaysss wound up sssurviving, and you alwaysss won." (1)

Bugsy's dark gaze remains as steady as his claws when he says, "Spare me (1). I won 'cuz I had more (1) strength, and brainpower, dan you's or anyone else (1) I fought did (1). Dat's what matters (1). Nothin' else." (1)

William finds himself smiling in genuine pleasure even though he knows he might very well be enjoying the last few seconds of his life.

William: "Well not thisss time (1). You know, I really should've figured thisss out before (1). But better late than never, amiright?"

Bugsy: "Wrong. Goodbye, William. You always were a loser."

Bugsy raises his left paw and aims for the hapless snake's throat. Before he can attack, Kale's voice, as he comes out from his hiding place, distracts him.

Kale: "Don't do it, Bugsy! We's can still get what we need from 'im."

Bugsy turns around and talks to his brother as Kale comes across the creek.

Bugsy: "I'm handlin' dis, Kale. Dis is how the pro's do deals when their supposed business partner decides not ta honor the deal."

Kale: "I know he has ta be punished for tryin' ta kill ya and for refusin' ta help. But if our pack's not only gonna make a comeback, but also become more prestigious dan ever before, den we need his help. He's more valuable ta us alive than dead."

Bugsy: "With dat nose'a yours, you can track his scent to da map in no time."

Kale: "Dat can't happen if dare isn't a map at all."

Bugsy shouts "What?!" at the exact moment William gasps and widens his eyes, the canine not being the wiser of the snake's actions that have exposed the reptile's scheme.

Kale: "He was lyin' ta ya about havin' a map. I smelt the mixture of anxiety, tension, and confidence dat critters emit whenever dey lie coming from William."

Bugsy turns to the snake in his right paw, giving William a death glare while doing so, and slowly asks, "You's...Were...Lyin' ta me?"

William: "No—"

Bugsy squeezes the snake's throat, hard.

William: "—Arrgh! *Cack* O-okay, yesss. I wasss lying. I don't have the map with me physssically, I memorized it and have it in my brain. That was my acccce in the hole. Ssso if you kill me, you'll never find the hidden path, and I won't agree to any proposssal that doesssn't involve me sssurviving."

As he spoke, William's voice was straining the whole time as Bugsy retained an uncomfortable hold on his throat even after the wolf loosened his grip a bit after the reptile had said "yes."

Bugsy: "We can find ya's divorced mate 'n kids and—"

William: "Go on. I don't care about them anymore. That ungrateful and literal sssnake-in-the-grassss mate of mine wasss only usssing me. All she ever wanted from me wasss to give her kidsss. And my ssspawn chose to live with her inssstead of me! You killing them would get rid of them for me without me having to get my non-exisssting handsss dirty."

Bugsy: "Ya see why we gotta, kill 'im, Kale? See why ya's plan won't work?"

Kale (to William): "We could always go ta ya's new gal-pal instead."

Bugsy raises his eyebrows in amazement at his brother's attention to detail and devious means to an end, whereas William widens his eyes in fear.

William: "Y-you wouldn't dare."

Kale: "Show us da path you's memorized so well inta you's head, and we'll let you and ya's girlfriend live. Oth'awise, we kill her and force you ta watch!"

Bugsy smiles while nodding in appreciation.

William: "You'll never find her!"

Kale: "I beg ta differ."

Kale walks up and starts sniffing William, causing the uncomfortable snake to exclaim, "Get outta my persssonal ssspace you creep-weirdo!"

Bugsy: "Shut up, Willy!"

He bops William on top of the head with his left paw, causing the reptile to grunt "Ow!"

Bugsy: "You's brought dis on ya'self!"

Bugsy nods at Kale who continues sniffing William, all of him, up and down. The process takes 30 seconds, and when Kale is done he says, "You saw 'er yesterday...at her den...located a mile away to da southeast...inside da roots of a fallen tree...where you's two shared a chipmunk for dinner. Then for dessert you's...Well, let's leave that detail out. But you's get where I'm goin' with dis."

William begrudgingly nod yes twice and says, "Yeah...You know where to find her."

Kale: "Exactly where ta find 'er. So if you's don't want nothin' bad ta happen to 'er, you's'll show us to da path you's found. Do this, and we'll let you and ya's girlfriend live."

William: "I alssso want your pack to continue protecting me."

Bugsy: "You's lost dat privilege when ya's lied ta me—!"

Kale: "We'd be happy ta continue keepin' you's and ya's gal-pal safe."

Bugsy: "What—?!"

William gives a toothless grin at the younger and more lenient wolf.

Kale: "And inna token of goodwill, we'll let you's go and lead da way."

Bugsy (in rising anger): "Ka-ale! Tú pendejo! Te has vuelto completamente loco, idiota sin cerebro?!"

Note: Bugsy said, "Ka-ale! You stupid person! Have you gone completely crazy, you brainless idiot?!"

Kale ignores his brother's insults and focuses instead on William, who sticks his forked tongue out at Bugsy in insult. Kale comes up to the snake and wraps one paw hard around where his lungs are and the other paw where the stomach is, giving them a hard squeeze.

Kale: "Try anythin' funny and I change my mind! Comprendè?"

William: "Y-y-ye-esss."

Kale: "Muy bueno. And we're gonna be on you like white on rice, breathin' down you's neck the whole way ta make sure you don't try ta lead us astray."

Bugsy: "Although I'm glad you's aren't goin' soft like I thought you's was, you still realize he could try ta bite us while we're close to 'im, right?"

Kale: "Of course, bro. But don't worry, I gotta plan. Keep holding him."

Kale goes over to some vines, breaks one off, and comes back to Bugsy. The older sibling sees—and likes—what Kale is thinking, and lowers the snake in his paw as Kale sits down to free both of his forepaws. Bugsy temporarily squeezes the snake's throat again in order to keep William occupied with something while the wolf uses his left paw to press down on the top of the reptile's head, preventing him from being able to open his mouth. Kale wraps the vine around William's mouth and secures it with a knot.

Kale takes the end of the three foot vine in his mouth, making it look like a wolf is walking a snake on a green leash. He approaches Bugsy with the vine, holds onto it using the right side of his mouth and then talks out of the left side.

Kale: "Want thish?"

Bugsy: "Nah, it's you're plan. You get dee honor."

Kale: "Kay." (To William) "I could'a used a thorny vine, but trust you ta keep ya's word."

Bugsy walks in front of William and says, "Lead da way, Willy-Will. And no tricks, or else..."

William nods fearfully at Bugsy, looks forward, sighs at how embarrassing it is for him having been reduced to a house pet, and slithers forward.

A few paces later and Bugsy asks, "Where'dja learn ta tie a knot from, lil' bro?"

Kale decides to hold the vine with his right forepaw and walk on his three other legs in order to speak normally.

Kale: "Remember dose boy scouts we saw tyin' knots in da woods when ma 'n dad were still around?"

Bugsy (embarrassed): "Oh, yeah. I've been tryin' ta forget that."

Kale (in humor): "Heh-heh, 'cuz Luciano dared you's ta mark the scout master's tent, not knowin' dat he was out answerin' nature's call. And when he came back and saw you's doin' the dare, he chased ya around with a tree branch with leaves on the end dat he put in da campfire!"

Bugsy: "Yeah...He singed off a chunk'a my fur on my left flank, and da flames spread to the right one..."

Kale (trying not to laugh): "Leavin' ya's bare-butted for a month!"

Bugsy (more positive tone): "But I got my revenge on Luciano a few months later when I told 'im where the hole that da weasel we was chasing went down. Haha, it was dee entrance to a hornet nest in da ground! And all dat yellin' Luciano did ta make the weasel come out only aggravated the bugs and made 'em sting him real good!"

Bugsy and Kale start literally howling in laughter. He really enjoys the talk he just had with Bugsy. It lets the teen know that despite all the changes that have happened to him and his brothers over the years, that they are still brothers. They still love each other and cherish the memories they had in their youth, which for Kale were the best times of his life.

Kale thinking: "No...not even my childhood can compare ta my time with RJ's and Verne's family, 'cuz I was free from da codes of wolf society with dem.

"But that was den, dis is now. Keep ya eye on da prize and become a true Bone-Chomper...for your sake and ya's brother's sake."

However, that's easier said than done, because he owes his ingenious plan of showing mercy to William—instead of doing the more logical wolf-solution of letting the snake get killed by Bugsy—to the hedgies. They are the ones who taught him that leaving someone alive can be just as, if not more, favorable for everyone involved. That's what they did to Vanesa, that's what they did to the prey animal mob, and that's what they did to him. He has yet to personally witness if the first case will turn out beneficially, but if the other two cases are any indication, odds are it will.

Kale thinking: "Just make sure you take credit for what they've taught you's. Dare's nothin' wrong with dat."

It's true. He doesn't feel guilty for it and it will help him be more successful in the future.

He continues following William's lead, noting all the nearby markers that will help him and his pack remember how to get to the hidden path into their next target for territorial expansion.

Note: Based on Star Wars: Hard Merchandise by K.W. Jeter.


By the time William had finished showing Kale and Bugsy up and down the secret path—which is a tunnel of sorts through a seeming dead end in which the top and sides are made of briars and fallen trees—Kale thinks that if Fate was in the form of a vertebrate organism, Fate would be laughing its rear off. The hidden path leads into the woods by the Elysian Fields Estates. If that's not enough, Kale is able to smell the scent of the hedgies roughly 60 yards from the end of the hidden path. Fortunately, Bugsy's and Kale's focus was the hidden path itself and not anything beyond it. But if he is to keep his and the hedgies' secret safe, he decides he will need to give them a warning once he can come back here alone.

As promised, Bugsy and Kale freed William from his makeshift leash and let him go his own way, with the vow of continued protection from the Bone-Chompers in effect.

Still feeling cheated in regards to that last part, Bugsy talks to Kale when the snake is out of earshot.

Bugsy: "Why was ya so merciful, Kale? The codes of wolf society would've been fulfilled if I killed dat snake and his girlfriend after he showed us what we wanted."

Kale: "We got what we wanted, didn't we? Now we know of a hidden way to get a good foothold inta dee territory of my failed hunt, which I wanna lead. And as for Willy, he got ta live and won't get in our way ev'a again. He owes me for savin' his life, so if he does try ta betray us in any way again, I'll be in my full right ta kill him. Somethin' I learned from da prey critters was teachin' dee important lesson of how I can giveth, and how I can taketh away."

Bugsy: "As a wolf it's in ya's right ta kill anything, whenev'a you want, and especially when others go back onna deal from dee onset."

Kale: "True, but I think we'll benefit more with a living animal owin' our pack a favor, dan tryin' ta get a favor from a dead animal."

Bugsy: "Only time'll tell if dis new deal'a yours benefits our pack." (Slowly and serivously) "But until den..."

Kale locks eyes with his older brother.

Bugsy: "Don't. Mess. Up."

Kale: "I won't. I used a lotta effort ta get dis for our pack, so I care about makin' it count for somethin'. Everything I do, it's for our pack, you's and Luciano, and lastly me."

Bugsy: "Good on ya, Kale. Now dat I know you's mind is in da right place, lemme tell you's what I personally think about your accomplishment today..." (Takes a breath) "You's did an AWESOME JOB! C'mere, hermanito!"

Kale happily gives Bugsy a high-four, then one down low, followed by a double fist bump, and closing with an "Arriba!"

Bugsy: "Now let's head back home and give da pack da good news!"

Kale wants to volunteer to scout the path just in case Leo agrees to let him lead the hunt that will use this passage—as an excuse to discretely go see the hedgies and warn them about the advantage that the Bone-Chompers now have. However, he decides against it because he's afraid that will rouse too much suspicion from Bugsy. Not to mention it would be better for Kale to wait and see if Leo agrees so that he has his godfather's go-to to scout ahead for real, whereby he can warn the hedgies without the fear of being followed since the scouting part of a hunt must be done alone by the wolf leading the hunt.

So Kale follows Bugsy back through the pathway and is most pleased with the warm reception he gets when he tells his pack of how well his plan worked. Most noteworthy, Dillinger actually smiled for him, and Gabby actually apologized for giving him his scar.

Not all was sunshine and roses, though, because he also found out how Leo, Luciano, Dillinger, and Capone had searched the hedgies' log after finishing their business in Area 3, and that Bugsy's job was to take Kale to William so that his little brother wouldn't complicate the other wolves' inspection. Fortunately, the wolves found the log abandoned, with fur that had been ripped out, three bloody and empty turtle shells, porcupine carcasses with the quills still attached that they dug up, and dried blood in the area. Naturally, Kale was distraught with how his pack doesn't fully trust his word, but at the same time, the respect that the others are starting to give him is a welcomed change.

As expected, Leo gave Kale authorization to scout a hunting path that he will use to finish his coming-of-age hunt. The godfather said he had earned it for securing the secret passage, not because Kale was his godson and needed another shot at redeeming his hunt. So like usual, Kale has to earn his perks, but now the teen is more determined than ever to get better because his brothers' places in the pack are on the line too.

But there are others involved in this now, and he can't leave them in the dark. It goes against the codes of wolf society, but Kale himself feels he has to do something to ensure the survival of certain creatures he cares about. As Stella had said, "Just keep in mind that you still owe us. We're the ones who helped you, not you're pack."

Kale owes his life and mental sanity to those creatures. He is obligated to warn them. They may have fooled his pack with the blood that was squeezed from packaged meats, and the turtle shells, fur patches, and porcupine quills that were taken from the animal trophies of a resident of the Elysian Fields Estates who was a hunter. But more will have to be done to ensure their survival in the coming days.

And that would turn into months, maybe years, if the Bone-Chompers succeed...and Kale is equally obligated to ensure they do.


In the woods past the Elysian Fields Estates, the hedgies have arrived at their new dwelling—a deep burrow used by Rainer the badger's family—after pulling off another successful heist.

RJ: "Alright, gang, excellent job as always! We got more than enough food to last until we have to move to our next homes for the rest of the week."

Bernard: "But daddy...I played possum when the humans said they would skin me alive, and made Aunt Penny and Uncle Lou have to rescue me, which put everything we stole in danger..."

RJ (kneels down to look his son in the eyes): "True. But listen to me, Bernard, we all make mistakes. Hearing someone threaten to filet you is scary even for an adult like me. You just have to remember that you're part raccoon and can scamper away quickly. Just keep doing your 'training' and I'm certain you'll conquer your fears."

Lou: "And thankfully those human were fat and couldn't get to you before Penny and me."

Penny: "And no one blames you one bit."

Mary: "I—" (Changes tone after seeing her mother give her a sharp glance) "Um, even I don't, little brother." (Thinking) "Not. Scaredy-boy."

Verne: "It's just like RJ says, you're only going through a phase like many kids your age would, but it'll pass with time and practice."

Everyone nods, which makes Bernard feel all better again. The young oposaccoon is also grateful for being blessed with such a great father.

They all liked RJ (1). There is something about him that seems so natural and so attractive (1). Maybe it is (1) his craftiness, or his playful yet serious demeanor. Maybe it is because he seems like a nice guy (1).

Whatever it is, Verne was the one who appreciates RJ more than anyone else, mostly because of how the reptile first viewed the raccoon. RJ had seemed like nothing more than a (1) hotshot schemer when they'd first met, and pretty quick to let others know what a terrific (1) know-it-all he was, too (1). It wasn't until later (1), in a breif conversation on the night when the wagon load of food they had obtained had been destroyed in an explosion, that Verne realized that was just a public mask (1). Not the fur around his eyes, but rather a façade behind which RJ hid so nobody would know how much he really cared (1). That was cemented when he risked his life to save them from Dwayne and Vincent in the morning, and he has been showing that part of himself more openly ever since joining the family.

Verne's thoughts are interrupted when he and everyone else smells the scent of someone familiar—someone who they thought they'd never see again.

They turn in the direction of the scent and their faces brighten when they see none other than Kale standing 15 feet away.

Hedgies in unison: "Kale!"

Kale: "Heh-heh, hey guys."

Hammy: "You're back!"

Hammy is about to zoom over to hug the wolf before the others do the same, when Kale puts up a forepaw in a stop gesture.

Kale: "Don't! My pack'll smell ya's scents on me and know you's're alive."

Verne: "He's right."

The others let out a collective "Awwww," in disappointment, but understand what Kale means. Still, it doesn't stop the questions.

Rick: "What're you doing back?"

Emma: "Did your pack kick you out?"

Ozzie: "You're not being followed, are you?"

Kale: "Easy folks. I'm not bein' followed."

Penny: "Phew, that's a relief. And—jeepers, what happened to your face?!"

The others now notice the deep cut running down Kale's muzzle, so fresh that a fresh scab has recently just formed on it.

Kale: "Oh, dis scar?" (points at his scar) "Gabby, my godsister, gave it ta me for settlin' da score of how I got her ankle broken when I shoved her during my failed hunt."

Christine: "What does it the look like?"

Ty: "It looks bad."

Mary: "It looks scary!"

De'Ausha: "It looks like it sho hurt when you got it."

Kale: "Yeah, all'uv you's are right. And it still hurts. But it's nothin'. Really. This doesn't even come a fraction to the beat down I received durin' my initiation inta the pack."

Annette: "Beat down?"

Kale: "They beat me so I won't break (2). It's common not only in wolf packs, but in human gangs too. It's a test'a stamina and endurance. The idea is dat once I've suffered through the beat down, da most painful experience I'll ever face is behind me. Dat way, if I die from the teeth or claws of anoth'a predator, I can die with my dignity, and I'll be remembered for dat."

The hedgies look at each other in shock, and then look at Kale in confusion.

Velma: "That doesn't make any sense."

Kale: "How so?"

Velma: "We've had this talk already. When you die like that, you die like any other animal. No one remembers you for anything."

Kale: "Dey do if you're a wolf."

Verne: "Kale, the true test of dignity is how you live, not how you die."

Kale: "I..." (In a sigh) "Uh, why're you's always right?"

RJ: "Why did you forget about the things we discussed when we had our best talk with you?"

Kale: "Oh, yeah. My wolf-conscience, remember? I gotta abide by the codes of wolf society more dan ever now. My pack's accepted me back in with no hard feelin's—minus Gabby's scar—and will let me take a more active role in things. But I have to improve sooner dan I thought, or else me and even my bro's will be kicked outta da pack."

Hammy: "That sounds so unfair!"

Kale smirks in dry humor at how random yet on-the-ball the squirrel can be.

Kale: "You have no idea...But you's don't got the time ta feel sorry for me anymore, just like I don't got the time ta feel sorry for myself. I'm here ta warn you's about somethin's."

The forest family leans forward, heeding the wolf's serious tone as they are prepare to listen to something enlightening, and ominous.


Kale tells them about the secret passage the Bone-Chompers have found, and what it means for them and all prey animals living in area. He also tells them of the hunting path that he will lead his pack in the near future.

Next, he tells them—conflicting as it sounds—not to warn others besides their closest friends who live along the hunting path, because if there aren't enough prey animals who get caught off-guard in the coming hunt, then the Bone-Chompers will know someone in their ranks squealed. And since it will be on the hunting path that Kale will map out, he'll be the primary suspect.

Finally, he tells them of his commitment to ensure his pack succeeds. He doesn't want himself or his brothers to be kicked out of the pack, and definitely doesn't want to be disowned, not after everything he and his brothers have overcome and sacrificed. As soon as he rejoined his pack, he became a real wolf again, not the guy they healed and bonded with. That guy is dead. There can be no holding back or deceit, he truly has no other choice.

When Kale finishes, the omnivores are scared, and a good number want to tell the wolf that there is always a choice. But RJ, knowing first-hand what it's like to be forced to go along with a predator's orders, uses his authority in the family to seal the pact. The last thing they need is to make this more complicated than it already is.

RJ (while walking forward to Kale so that he's in front of his family): "That's...very sad to know." (Stops walking) "But we understand." (Turns around and looks at the family) "Right?"

The others reluctantly nod, their hearts already heavy with the guilt at how they have no choice but to allow many fellow prey animals to die. But they, like Kale, know there is no other way. And the fact that Kale is risking his neck to inform them of this is further proof that he is a changed wolf.

But even Kale doesn't inform them of the entire path he intends to use for his next hunt, because to quell any further doubts his pack has of him lying about killing the hedgies and going soft toward his pack's enemies, he must ensure this hunt will eliminate some personal enemies his pack has been wanting to kill for a while. Luciano and Dillinger want to kill Mark the flying squirrel; Leo wants to kill Brooke the beaver; and Kale wants to kill Ladarius's mom and dad. Each of those animals caused the wolves to fail in some way, which proves they could be a true threat to the pack. Common sense, not just the codes of wolf society, deems it necessary to remove those threats, so this won't be petty revenge like the kind that the Silver Fang and Wrong-Way Packs allowed to lead to their deaths.

With the codes of wolf society back in his mind full-force, Kale cannot spare those individuals, and he doesn't want to, either.

As Kale walks away with a heavy heart of his own, he tells himself that no matter how much he has been through with the hedgies, he will always be a wolf. He will never kill any of them, but he also cannot deny his species' lineage. The hedgies will undoubtedly hate him for killing some of their friends, but Kale has no choice but to prove himself a success to his godfather and pack members.

Soon, very soon, there will be a reckoning, and there will be death.

Note: (1)=Based on Star Wars: Shadows of the Empire by Steve Perry.

(2)=Based on the movie Freedom Writers.


As before, I'd like to give a special thanks to MTV studios making the movie Freedom Writers, and authors Steve Perry, K.W. Jeter, and, Michael A. Stackpole for writing their novels that provided me with incredible opportunities to enhance my own story. I claim no ownership of the marked phrases, and kept them unaltered (with the exception of adding in "paisanos," those animals' names, and the emphasis on the S's) because to change them would make them lose their efficiency.