Time for the next chapter! And in this chapter we'll finally get to see some Mute abilites in action, and it's not just Kipo's, lets see what Chris is made of.
Also in this chapter for those that know the show, you already know what's coming next with the debut of 'you know who'.
Chapter 8
Rat Land
On top of the old Starbucks was Chris was now fast asleep, he had stayed up for a vas majority of the night. As he slept peacefully the teen's ears twitched upon hearing a noise that sounded very close to him.
Upon hearing the noise Chris quickly sprung awake shooting out of his cover tackling who ever was near him onto the ground.
" Whoa-Whoa! " The one who made the noise was Benson holding up his arms in defense trying to shield himself as Chris got ready to attack. " Chris, no-no-no! it's me! It's me! "
" What the hell, Benson? " The silver teen groaned rubbing his eyes while standing up. " I could've killed you. "
" Uh yeah, that's understatement. " He retorted. " If your like this every morning, now I know not to wake you up. "
" I am sorry though... "
" Apology accepted. Now help me up. " Benson requested and Chris did just that.
" What are you doing up so early? "
" I kind had to take care of a 'little buisness'. But never mind that. I noticed you weren't down with the others, did you seriously stay up here all night? "
" Keeping watch, mostly. " Chris answered as he sat back down smacking his lips as he yawned. He then noticed there was an apple right in front of him.
" Found this down there, want half? " Benson questioned.
" Sure. " Chris took the offer but split in in half giving the other part to his companion. He sighed in content as he was eating. " It's gonna a long day today. "
" That's for sure. " Benson agreed. " I really hope it can lead us somewhere. "
" Me too...But I'm sure Kipo will figure out what it means. "
" That's true. " He said finishing his snack. . " Can I ask you something? I've been really curious since I've met ya. "
" Alright, I can bite. " Chris answered.
" How did you meet Kipo? " The silver teen received his question.
" Truth be told Benson, I didn't expect to be part of something like this... " He said honestly. " Up until days ago, I was scavenging through the city, collecting food, and other stuff that caught my eye. Then out of nowhere came a whole lot of water, with Kipo washing out of it.
" No kidding? "
" Yeah, then, I noticed she wasn't breathing, and as I about to give her CPR, she shot awake and bumped my head. Knocking her out cold. "
Benson laughed at the last part. " For real? You're not joking? "
" Heck, no. When I brought her over to my home, I was checking up on her, and then boom! Door comes flying open and she bumps into my face at full speed, knocking both of our asses down on the floor! "
" Wow, there's something not right about that! "
" I know. Heck, ask Kipo, she'll confirm what I'm saying is true. "
" Nah, I believe you. " Benson noticed Chris's Walkman. " So you got one of those too? "
" Yeah..." He picks it up. " It originally belonged to my mother. Including the mix tapes, the rest, I managed to dig up every once in a while. "
" I feel ya, I do the same thing to, it's amazing what you can find. "
" No, what's more amazing is the fact that somehow these things have lasted over the past two hundred years. The fact they still work, that's a miracle. "
" Oh yeah, for sure. So what do you like to listen to? I'm into pop and rap. "
" I'm more into rock, but every once in a while I find something I like. "
" I respect that. Want to listen to some of the tunes I found? "
" It'll pass the time, before everyone else wakes up. Sure. " Benson did just that and played his Walkman. " You know, it is a nice morning. "
" Indubitably. " Chris agreed.
We now change the scene to seeing a set of fingers playing a piano with the sound of laughter. The location was some sort of palace, despite their being vegetation it was rather extravagant despite the state the surface was in.
There were also quite a number of primates present. Gorilla's, Orangutans, Chimpanzees, Spider Monkey's, Baboons, Ringed Tail Lemurs, and Tarsier. They were all dressed in 18th-century European court clothing, composed of red jackets with oversized and small blue bowties, white lace cuffs, dark blue breeches, and white stockings with some wearing powdered wigs.
They were all watching humans, and yes actual humans ballroom style dancing. They also had 18th-century clothing with their faces covered in masks.
" Hehahahahahahahaha! Allegro! " The one playing the piano cried out. " Allegro my lords and lady's faster! " A few of the primates provided their vocals as a chorus all while the one playing the piano continued to laugh like a maniac. As he was doing so, he for some reason wiped off a thick amount of sweat from his brow and let it drip into a small glass container all while continuing to laugh.
" Dance faster! " The piano player yelled out while continuing his mad laughter making the humans who were dancing increase their pace. " What's that you say? Even faster? Okay! Hehehahahaha! Play faster! " He raises his hands up and continues to increase his playing speed with the human dancers doing the same with their dancing. As this happened, a loud shriek was heard. It belonged to a massive two headed flamingo that flew into the room.
As it did, the one playing the piano snapped his fingers instantly making the music and the dancers stop allowing them to catch their breath. As the flamingo landed it was revealed the two heads were each carrying something before dropping them down. It removed the burlap sacks over their heads, they were revealed to be Good and Bad Billions who looked around the area and laid eyes on the piano player.
" We have party crashers...How rude... " He slammed his hands down and turned around. He was revealed to be a mandrill, wearing the same sort of clothing as the rest of the apes with a long blue bowtie around his collar and a few very noticeable scars covering his face. This mute, was none other the mute who sat on top of the Las Vistas food chain, Scarlemagne.
" Oh, the two egg heads! " He recognized the two wolves before him. " Have you found my new army yet? "
" Huh... " Good Billions readjusted his glasses. " Scarlemagne's palace, in the real...I've love what you've done with it. " His brother then began to sniff the air.
" Smells like weird perfume in here. " Bad Billions noted.
" That... " Scarlemagne snapped his fingers making all the dancers stand up straight, aligning with one another making way. " Made it myself, literally, from my own pheromones. " As he said this one the dancers fell forward sounding to be very exhausted. As this happened the mandrill brought out the same glass container he used to put his sweat in. " Don't worry, it won't work on you canines. Just primates. " He said before spraying the bottle into the dancers face making him stand back up. " But I only use it on a certain class of primate... " Scarlemagne removes the dancers mask revealing he was smiling and sweating nervously in fear as he rubbed his finger across his face.
" The lesser ones. Even a monkey has his standards. Hehahaha. I renamed him Francis, he just learned the can-can. Show them darling. " The dancer did just that amusing the mute. " Never gets old...Now... " He then turns his attention back at the two wolves. " Why did you make my Flamingos bring you here? "
Instantly they got nervous and scared and Bad Billions elbowed his brother. " Come on man! We did rock, paper, scissors. You tell him why. "
" Um...So uh.. " Good Billions began nervously. " You remember that telescope that we...Hehehe...used to have? "
" Hmmm... " Scarlemagne growled in response not liking what was gonna be said.
And liked it he did not, after sending the wolf brothers off, Scarlemagne was furious! Slamming into his piano making on the keys pop out. " I've lost my eyes to the city! " He yelled out in frustration addressing to some of the apes and the dancers who were now perched on many two headed flamingos. " Now I need new eyes! Eyes to find the humans who escaped, from that burrow! If there's a human out, I want it dancing for me by dawn! " He gave out his orders doing a twirl and dramatic pose in the process.
With their orders given, Scarelmagne's minions and slaves rode out of his palace all while the sounds of his maniacal laughter was heard as they flew off.
Meanwhile back at the city the group had now awoken with the sun now rising over the city.
After locating the sign where Kipo saw the numbers from the telescope at the observatory, they began to climb there way up the ladder. Kipo was up front with Chris right behind her followed by Dave who was holding onto Benson and Mandu who was holding onto the end of Wolf's cape and also her staff.
" 3.2662, if your father was gonna leave a message, couldn't it have been something much more simple? " Benson asked. " Like an arrow? "
" Then anyone could follow it... " Kipo said as she got up there with everyone else arriving examining the message her dad had left. " No, this is perfect. It's big enough so he knew I would see it, but only I would know it was a message. "
" And do you know what means? " Chris questioned.
" No. I don't have a clue. " Kipo answered still trying to figure out what it meant.
" But it must mean something to you... " Wolf pointed out. " Otherwise we wouldn't be here. "
" In light years, 3.262, is the length of a parsec. " Kipo began to pace around trying to think.
" A what sec? " Wolf questioned in confusion.
" A parsec. It's an astronomical unit. " Kipo answered. " Dad's a bit of a science nerd. "
" Yeah, were aware... " Dave said as hopped up onto the railing.
" It also happens to be my birthday. " Kipo spoke up making everyone look at her. " March 26th at two AM. That's why it was dads favorite number, and guess what today is Mandu. " The pig already knew the answer.
" Laundry day! " Dave didn't catch on while Benson did.
" Whoa! Kipo is today your B Day? "
" If you do my dad and I decorate the state of my calendar with balloon stickers? Yes. "
" Kipo's first birthday topside! Don't know why, but it sounds big. " Dave exclaimed.
" Well what'd you expect? " Chris said with a raised eyebrow. " She's been raised underground most of her whole life, so of course it's big. "
" We should go out! " Benson spoke up. " For a city where's nothings open ever, there's surprisingly a lot to do here. " Instead of being excited Kipo was a bit down as she took a seat.
" Ugh, I can't celebrate until we figure out this clue... " She then mimicked her dads voice. " Kipo, the answer is in front of you. Apply yourself. "
Kipo then acted like she was replying. " I'm trying dad, you know you make this really difficult to solve. "
She mimicked him again. " Because challenges, build character. "
" I don't need anymore character! I just need to find you! "
" Sheesh, that reminds me some of my fathers lessons. " Chris noted before imitating his father putting on a deep voice.
" Chris, you must be willing to adapt to your surroundings, think smart and always improvise, thinking on your feet. Then again, those were some pretty good lessons. " The silver teen recalled before they looked to see Wolf had shredded up the sign with her scorpion tail.
" Now were the only ones know about this clue and the only we can follow it. " Wolf said proudly. " You're welcome. "
" There's a word I'm looking for...Uh, what is it? Overkill! " Dave yelled out as Kipo walked up to the board.
" Kipo, can you figure out what these numbers mean? "
" I'll try, but it'll take some time. Any of you got anything to write with? " Benson pulled out a piece of chalk from his backpack and gave it to her. " Parsec...Parsec...Parsec... "
Figuring this was going to take some time Chris brought out his headphones and Walkman putting in a mixtape.
" What are you listening to? " Benson asked in curiosity sitting down beside him.
" Probably some music you've never heard before. You Care to listen? "
" Yeah, I don't mind. "
" Well, alright, enjoy the show. " Chris said as he twirled the other ear piece around so he could listen and pressed his mixtape. And so while waiting for Kipo to figure out what the numbers meant, the group was now waiting. Wolf was on watch while Dave was playing with Mandu while Chris and Benson was listening to some music.
Over the hours they both took turns, listening to what music they'd found through out the city. And for Benson he was more then pleased upon hearing a few songs especially the long ones, like Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds, Help!, Shelter from the Storm, Peace of Mind, Backstreets, and Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.
Then after a while, they stopped and were now beyond bored because within time, hours had passed and Kipo was just finishing up solving the clue her father left.
" Just one is nineteen trillion miles... " Despite all the times she had Kipo was still having a hard time figuring it out and groaned. " Maybe, that's how far away my people are. "
" Kipo...You've been at it for hours! " Benson groaned. " Look, sometimes Dave and I get stuck in old crosswords, and when we get stuck, we put it down and we go away for a little while. "
" Yeah! " Dave woke up for a split second stretching himself out a bit. " And the answers presents itself. " He went back to sleep.
" You know what, you both actually got a point, " Chris admitted standing up and stretched himself out making his bones pop. He then grabs the chalk from her hand. " Getting yourself all worked up and overloaded won't help. It hasn't been easy so far, so let's take a break. Also I'm curious to know, how old you turning? "
" 14. " She answered making Chris pound his right fist into his other open palm.
" Okay, that settles it. We gotta go and celebrate. This also a big deal, it's your first birthday on the surface. This could be a perfect time to let loose. " Chris said hoping to try and convince her and looked over to Benson motioning his head over to her for some backup.
" Oh yeah, totally. " He did just that. " Plus, I'm sure wherever you're dad is, he would want to take some time and have fun today. " This seemed to make it through Kipo with Chris giving him a thumbs up for accomplishment.
" I do love birthdays. " She looks over to Wolf who had been perched in the same spot all day. " When's your birthday? "
" I don't know. " She answered shrugging her shoulders.
" What do you mean you don't know? Everyone knows there birthday. "
" Not this everyone. " Wolf said.
" The- " As she was about to speak Chris put a hand on her shoulder and shook his head. She caught on realizing it was a sensitive subject. " Never mind. " She got back up and walked over to her. " Well guess what Wolf. Were going to be birthday sisters today. I'm going to celebrate my first surface birthday and your going to celebrate your first birthday. "
" Alright, there we go. " Chris was liking the sound of her idea. " We can defiantly do this. "
" This is a great idea! " Benson agreed with it as well. " But first, you have to get each other presents. " He takes Kipo's and rushes down to the ladder with Chris right behind.
" Wait...Presents!? " She didn't expect this to come so suddenly but it was to late they were already leaving.
" Of course! They're the best part about birthdays! " She said as she made her way down. " Meet back here when you find something! " She suddenly popped her head back up. " Oh, I also like things that are purple, and board games. Good luck! " She now went down leaving Wolf alone with Dave and Mandu.
" I get stuck with the two mutes? " She asked herself out loud and frowned. " Great... "
We now see the three of them walking through the streets and entered what used to be a pharmacy that had seen better days like every other building around. While Benson entered, Chris noticed she seemed a bit nervous looking around.
" Hey... " He gently took her hand. " It's okay. Were fine. " Chris said in reassurance and lead her inside unaware she was blushing the whole time until they got to the shelves were a lot of old stuff was at, but thanks to the moon they had just the right amount of light to look around. " Alright, let's get started. " He let go of her hand and began to carefully look through the area.
" So while in here, we'll find Wolf the perfect gift. " Kipo said summarizing the reason they were there while picking up an old lunch bag.
" Right. " Benson confirmed. " Like they say, one man's trash is another mans treasure. "
" I'm pretty sure that one word is junk, not trash. " Chris corrected while he was checking through the shelves throwing aside an old box of cereal to the side.
" Oh, yeah, it is and uh...We've got ourselves a real treasure heap... " He said now looking at another shelf. As they were doing so and Chris was keeping his eye out for something he noticed Kipo seemed a bit troubled.
" Something on your mind? " He asked her while continuing to look through the cluster of stuff.
" Be honest..." She said while looking through the piles of stuff. " Do you think they'll be okay out there? My people? "
" Why are you asking that? "
" Because something is always trying to capture you, eat you, step on you... " She suddenly gasped making her two companions walk over to her. " Or worse... " There was a small painting of a human family with their dog covered in paint with the words Human Scum right over it.
" Sometimes you see stuff like that around here. " Benson said. " It's best to ignore it. " He said and continued to look through the pharmacy.
" Look, Kipo, I know your worried about you're people, and father. But, we have to remember what we've learned. There was no signs of anyone back in your burrow and that Mega Monkey confirmed everyone got away, somehow. " He placed a hand on her shoulder in reassurance. " We'll figure out where they are. So for right now, don't worry. "
She lightly blushed but felt more at ease at what he said and walked forward. They also didn't notice Benson was watching the whole thing go down with a smirk. " Huh? Guys look! " She kneeled down spotting something sticking out in the pile.
" Wow... " Benson kneeled down next to her. " That's...uh..treasure...alright. " He said laughing nervously getting an elbow nudge from Chris.
" It is. " She ignored what he said and reached down to grab it. " Its the perfect gift for Wolf. "
As the two exited out of the pharmacy Chris's attention was caught. He then quickly threw whatever he had into his backpack and joined his friends.
" Mission accomplished. " Kipo said. " A little sooner then expected. Where to now? "
" There's something I want to show you... " Benson said opening his backpack and opened it up pulling out a metal can. " It's my present, for you. "
" Caned Cheese? " Kipo was confused as was Chris as she leaned to read the lable. " Made with twelve percent real cheese. What's the rest of it made of? " She wondered before changing her mind. " You know what, it doesn't matter. I love it. "
Benson laughed upon hearing this. " Haha, oh look at your face. Tha-That's not it... " He walked forward. " The real gift is way better, come on. "
Elsewhere with Wolf she was looking through the city with Mandu and Dave. Even though she wasn't thrilled about being with them, or the whole birthday thing, she was still willing to try it. Since Kipo was her first real friend along with Chris after what happened with her previous pack.
" Aha! Yes! " Dave picked up a rim cover of a car. " Look what I found! " He showed it to the young survivor holding it out. " Boom! Nailed it! Could be a hat, could be a frisbee, Kipo loves fashion, heck Kipo loves fun. Frisbee? "
" Frisbee? " She never heard of one before nor did she and the bug know what he was holding.
" Yeah! Check it out! " He threw it like a frisbee Mandu tried catching it, but she missed. Instead it broke a piece of glass making a loud noise. Afterwards a noise was heard in the distance putting Wolf on the alert getting ready to fight. Luckily it wasn't close by.
" Next time you ring the dinner bell, we are done Mute! " She said firmly. " From now on...This.. " She used the bottom end of her staff to draw a circle. " This right here, is a Mute-Free-Zone. " Despite being a Mute Mandu sat down in it glaring at the bug.
" Oh yeah? " Dave took that as a challenge. " Well, this is a Wolf-Free-Zone. No wolves allowed over here... " As he bended over to draw a circle of his own, he made a wrong turn in a hurtful way landing on his back.
" I can live with that. " Wolf didn't care and continued walking forward with Mandu right beside her. The bug got back on his feet and continued following them.
" What kind of gift are we looking for anyway? " Dave asked in curiosity.
" I'll know it when I see it. " She answered.
" Oh! Going with your gut, I like that. That's how I role to. "
We now see the other trio making their way through a narrow pass. " Benson where you taking us? " Chris questioned walking behind Kipo as their friend in question was up front leading the way.
" Hey, trust me... " He looked back at them. " This is gonna be cool. " They then entered a small clearing that clearly showed it was some sort of suburban apartment area.
" Oh wow...It's so..." She stopped upon seeing the words Surrender Humans sprayed into a nearby wall. " Festive... "
" Sometimes on the surface, is more then what you see on the surface. " Benson said grabbing Kipo's hand in reassurance holding the can of cheese in the other. He then walked forward and kneeled down shaking the can and sprayed the contents into a small twirled tower.
The other two were defiantly confused by what was going on while he was acting just fine. " They should be here any second. " All the sudden the sound of an engine running was heard making them look to see a speeding van come by turning side ways and screeched to a halt. Despite it having rust, the vehicle looked like it was still running, with the lights on and everything, there was also a fake rat tail attached to the end. The door to the drivers side opened slightly and a hand reached town taking a finger scoop of what Benson sprayed on the ground. As the door closed, the side door of the van opened up on it's own.
" You're chariot awaits, birthday girl. " Benson motioned her first to go inside. She did just that followed by Benson and finally Chris. After strapping on their seat belts they were off. The inside was a bit messy and there were a small few patches attached to some of the windows, that probably covered whatever damaged whatever the glass sustained. There also different types of cheese hanging around inside, in different shapes, squared, round, there was just so much.
It also turned out, the driver, was a Rat Mute. It had black and white mottled fur with light pink ears, nose, hands, feet, and tail. While also wearing a lime green vest and baseball hat including a pair of shades. After they started going there was a silence and Kipo was a bit nervous.
" So..." Kipo spoke up breaking the silence. " Our friend here won't tell me, because this was supposed to be a surprise, but. Where are you taking us? " The driver made a sharp turn making Kipo bump into Chris while he got a face full of the window. Despite this he was rather calm, almost to calm. Kipo then began to panic seeing they were approaching a brick wall.
" Uh, wall! Wall! " She screamed in fear and closed her eyes shielding herself for a possible crash. However there was no crash, instead the driver honked the horn and the wall split open into two before spinning into a screeching halt with the wall closing right behind them.
The rat driver then took of it's sunglasses revealing it's magnetta colored eyes.
" Bonjuer ya'll and Je m'appelle Amy. " The rat greeted revealing it was a she. " That's French for, my name is Amy. " The panel in the front of the dash board folded down revealing another rat only it had black fur with matching colored eyes and also supported the same uniform Amy was wearing.
" Holla! And Yen venitos arborto. I'm Brad. " The black rat greeted with the panel shutting up before he was seeing exiting out of the hood of the van while Amy exited out of the drivers side and opened up the side door standing beside Brad.
" Welcome to Rat Land! " Amy said gesturing to their new location which was an actual amusement park! There were lights, vendors, different rides, and there were even fire works going off!
" Holy crap! " Chris exclaimed in shock and awe. Never in his whole life did he expect there to be a place like this hidden in the city the whole time he was raised on the surface. Kipo felt the same way, only she was more excited.
" See, I told you it was good. " Benson said walking up beside them.
" Not this good... " Kipo said before hugging him. " Benson thank you so much! Thank You-Thank You-Thank You! "
" Hehe, no worries. Happy Birthday. " He said being free from her hold and grabbed Chris's arm. " Also, can I speak with you for a minute in private? "
" Sure. " They went to a good distance so they could talk. " Quick question though, we don't got worry about anything right? "
" No, its cool. " Benson answered. " The rats made this place a safe zone. So we'll be fine. "
" Okay, then why'd you want to talk? "
" I'm letting you hang out with Kipo. "
" Wait, what? " Chris was greatly confused by this. " Why? She'd want you to be part of the fun to. "
" I know-I know. But, I'm letting you seize the opportunity. "
" I don't follow. " Chris was still lost.
" Well, one reason is cause you known her the longest out of all us and I sort of noticed...That you may like her. "
The silver teens eyes widened a bit and chuckled at this. " Yeah, good one. " Benson instead only had a smirk and raised eyebrow. " Okay, maaaybe a little? But come on, no way she thinks that way of me. Were just friends. "
" Not from the way I seen it. "
" So let me get this straight... " Chris started to slowly collect what he was understanding. " Not only are you presenting Kipo a birthday surprise, but your also being my wing man? "
" Bingo. " Benson confirmed.
" Huh, wow...I don't what to say. I didn't expect this at all. " Chris said before growing curious. " Hey wait, Benson, I gotta ask, what's your aim in this? " Chris questioned crossing his arms. " I figured you'd take advantage of something like this. "
" Why would I? " He raised an eyebrow.
" Because you like her too? "
" Ooooh...Okay, I get where your going with this." Benson said in understanding and cleared his throat. " Look, I only like Kipo as a friend and because...well...you see, I'm gay. "
" Oh, oh! Okay. "
" I didn't make this awkward did I? "
" No-no-no. It's fine. You just took me by surprise, that's all. And for the record, I'm not judging you or anything like that. "
" Nah, its perfectly okay. Were cool. You guys have fun. " He said before running off inside while Chris walked back over to Kipo.
" Where's Benson going? " She questioned.
" Uh...He wanted to go on ahead to see if they added any new rides. " The silver teen answered. " So...You want to get started? "
" Sure. "
We now see Wolf and her two Mute companions at the same clothes shop where Kipo and Chris got there clothes from. Mandu was on the lookout and she noticed one of Scarlemagne's two headed flamingos flying through the air.
In fear and worry she ran over to Wolf who was looking through the clothes.
" Aha! " She pulls out a small gold medallion. " It's perfect! " Mandu then came over to her trying to tell the young survivor that they had company. But since she didn't talk, Wolf couldn't understand her. " Not now pig. I'm busy. " The dressing room curtain pulled back revealing Dave.
" What you get? " The bug questioned.
" It's uh...mace! " Wolf began twirling it around the air. " See? " The end of it suddenly snapped off. " That wasn't the right gift anyway. " She threw the string away.
" Well, I found the greatest gift of all time. " Dave said perking up her interest pulling it back for a second and opened it again revealing he was wearing a spiked leather jacket. " I mean, we still gotta look for Kipo's... "
" That's it! " Wolf got excited upon seeing it. " It's just like the one she liked in cactus town! It's Perfect! " Dave went over to the mirror to check himself out looking like he wanted to keep it but she was glaring him down. " We have to give it to her. "
" Who made you jacket boss? " Dave questioned.
" Fine...Since you found it, you can wear it back...But then I'm taking it off you, on way or another... "
" Only as long as you don't enter the Wolf-Free-Zone. " Dave muttered while Mandu was gripping the end of her cape trying to warn her but she didn't pick up on that.
" What has gotten into? " Wolf asked in annoyance. " Is every Mute this annoying? "
" Hey! I take offense to that! " Dave exclaimed as a popping noise was heard and he went into his buff form tearing the jacket to pieces in the process. " Oops... " He realized he'd messed up big time.
" You are truly useless! Mute... " Wolf said before walking away in anger.
" You know what I think...I think that girl really don't like Mutes. Because I am full of uses. " Dave commented.
" Welcome to the Ratland Mute Cruise! Remember to keep all tails, paws, feet and wings inside the boat at all times. Seabofley. " Amy said now on a boat including Brad while Chris and Kipo were riding it. Overall, the ride had some old looking audio-animatronic giants on the shore line.
" This place is amazing...Did you know this place here? " Kipo questioned.
" Not till now. " Chris answered. " I never knew this place existed. Heck, let alone a whole amusement park that was still running! "
" But we'll be fine here right? "
" I asked Benson the same thing, and he said the rats made this place a safe zone. All species are welcome apparently. " Chris answered.
" Well known fun fact. " Amy turned to them. " Easily the best cruise in town, if I don't mind tooting my own horn. " She did just that and three speeding objects were heading towards them.
" Hang on! Looks like a real party down there Amy. " Brad said and Chris got a better look of what was coming. There were skunks riding on jet skies using their spray as boosters, and immediately they regretted not covering there noses and began coughing.
" Oh man...That was bad! " Chris said between coughs.
" No kidding! " Kipo was going through the same thing. " Phew. "
" Oh Brad look! " Amy got their attention. " Dead ahead! Is that a Mega Pug I see? " She asked pointing forward and jumped off the boat before speeding off toward the animatronic turning it on making it bark.
" Don't worry Amy, his wark is worse then his height! " Brad played along as they passed it before she ran out landing back in the boat.
" These are some of the worst jokes I've ever heard in my life... " Kipo whispered.
" Well, you got them credit for trying. " Chris whispered back. " These two aren't half bad. "
" I know, and I think I love this ride. "
" I heard rats love cheese, but now I believe it. " The silver teen said earning a quick laugh from Kipo.
" I couldn't have thought of a better way to spend my birthday. " Kipo said looking over at Chris with a smile. " Thanks for coming along Chris. "
" No problem, and you got something on your face. "
" Where? " She tried getting it off with her right hand.
" Lower, a bit lower, yeah right there. " As Kipo brought her hand to her nose Chris splashed her with some water. " And now it's off. " He said with a grin with her returning the favor before it turned into full on splash fight, the two were defiantly having a blast.
After the cruise ride, the two of them had been playing games and going on different rides. Most of which shouldn't even operate, but somehow the rats were able to make the whole place come alive. There were all sorts of different races of Mutes.
" I can't believe they have cotton candy, and it doesn't have mold in it! " Chris exclaimed as he was happily eating it.
" I know. This is just crazy. Heck, there's even Timber Cats here. "
" With Umulat Snakes, no less. Makes me wonder if Yumyan and the others knew this place was here. "
" Hey, check it out. A Ferris Wheel. " Kipo pointed to the said ride that had a big donut decorated in the front of it. " Let's go on there. "
" Sure why not. " The silver teen said swallowing the rest of his treat. " I ain't never been on one before. "
" Neither have I. " She said before they joined in the line. After waiting for a few, it was finally their turn to ride.
" Let the riders off first! " An elephant mute said coming off with a younger elephant pulling him along. " Respect the rules of the park! " He said stomping off past them.
" What was that? " Kipo was a bit confused as they took a seat setting down the bar.
" Maybe, regulars? " Chris guessed shrugging his shoulders feeling the same way.
" Well at leas there not chasing us. In fact this is the first time we've seen Mutes and haven't had to run. " She said as two rats were turning a crank making the ride slowly go up.
" Or, getcaptured or having to feed them. " Chris added making her chuckle at this and they both saw almost everything in the park and saw off far in the distance. " You know, this is really nice. This is proof that even for a brief moment, humans and mutes can have fun together. It might not happen now, but there's hope for that. "
" Yeah, I know what you mean. " Kipo said as she gazed up at the sky getting a nice view of the stars that glowed. She then giggled seeing a two shoot stars in the distance.
" Can you name of them? "
" Yeah, I see Arcturus, Ursa Major, and Leo. By the way, when's your birthday? "
" October 24. " Chris answered.
" Ah, then that makes you a Scorpio. Which I can see right now. "
" Sweet, what about that big one? "
" Hmm...Not a star, it's a planet. Its Mars. " She answered.
" Did you know, Mars was also the name of the Roman god of war? "
" Actually yes. How'd you know that? "
" My mom. "
" Okay, spill the beans, my dad is a science geek, what was yours? "
" My mom? She was more of a historian and zoologist. " Chris answered. While I learned what she knows, you know what's up there more then I do. " As he said this he couldn't help noticing Kipo was staring over at him. "You okay? " He asked with a raised eyebrow.
" Yeah... " She said almost dreamingly making him a bit uncomfortable.
" You sure about? "
Kipo gasped snapping out of it." Oh! Uh, yeah. Just wish Wolf and Dave were here to... " She laughed nervously trying to change the subject. " There missing out on all the fun! "
" Eh, there's always next time. We just gotta have some cheese. " Chris said before sighing and took a look at the night sky. " You know Kipo, I never would've thought I'd be doing something like this...Having fun, celebrating a friends birthday...Up until days ago, I just surviving, adapting and learning everything the surface had to offer, like I was taught how to. " He looks down to the lights as they kept going up higher into the air. " Now, after finding you, having all these misadventures, seeing all this...I've learned that there's good places on the surface, not just bad things. I also feel more alive then I ever had in a long time...I'm living and enjoying life. " He then looks over to her with a smile. " And, in someway, I got you to thank for that. "
" Wow...That's really deep Chris... " Kipo said as she then looked over at him only it was a bit more different then the other times.
" Something wrong? "
" I don't know if its because I'm turning 14, but I feel really different right now...And I just feel that I really need to tell you that...I think I like you. "
" Okay, that's cool. "
" Chris... " He turned to see her smiling. " I like-like you. " Chris eyes widen in surprise and for a moment he leaned forward trying to process everything that was happening right now. Seeing him like this made her gasp lightly leaning up against the seat. " You don't feel the same. "
Chris quickly snapped out of it. " Actually...No...I am interested...Honest. " He said gaining her attention and lightly gripped her hand. " But, first, I need some time to sort out my feelings before giving you answer. If I'm gonna do it, then I need my answer to be every ounce bit of true. " The silver teen was blushing lightly. " Look, sometime later, hopefully when we find your dad and people, I'll give you my answer. Can you wait? "
Kipo sighed at what she heard before hugging him. " I understand. I'll wait, for your answer. But just don't me make we wait to long okay? "
" I won't. " All the sudden a screech was heard gaining his attention. He looked over Kipo's shoulder and spotted a two headed flamingo being ridden by one of Scarlemagne's slaves. " Get down! " They narrowly avoided getting snatched and watched as it was circling around. " That's one of Scarlemagne's flamingos! "
" I thought Benson said, this was a safe zone!? " Kipo cried out.
" Apparently, Scarlemagne don't care about that! " Chris said right as the flamingo circled around knocking off the top of the seat they were on sending them both down. Luckily Kipo managed to grab onto a railing and Chris at the same time. Chris had to do something quickly, he felt her grip was loosening, and if it wasn't bad enough, the flamingo was coming back around.
As it approached Kipo gained a strange new feeling, and suddenly spotted fur sprouts across her right shoulder, bicep, and down along her forearm. With the sudden new strength she grips the bar and throws Chris up narrowly getting grabbed by the two headed bird.
Despite being surprised by her new found strength Chris knew now wasn't the time.
" Roller Coaster! "
" Together! Let's go! " Grabbing her hand they made a mad dash before jumping off from the Ferris Wheel and landing onto the moving roller coaster that apparently used shopping carts instead of the normal kind of cars. Because they weren't strapped in, the two were holding onto for dear life and at the speed they were going, it caused them to go flying off the tracks into the air going right at the nearest building crashing through a wall. Despite the brief crash landing they, made the two teens were unharmed.
Behind them, the mega flamingo stuck out it's two heads through the hole. Chris's vision meanwhile was a bit blurry, for a few seconds until he shook his head. " Kipo, are you alright? " He gasped in shock noticing her arm was covered in fur.
" Yeah, I'm fine. I don't even know what came over me."
" Kipo... "
" It was almost like something else was in control... "
" Kipo! " He finally got her attention. " Your arm... "
" Ah! " She saw the state it was in. " What's wrong with my arm!? Why is it all furry!? Chris why is my arm all furry!? "
" Now's not the time for that! " Chris grabbed Kipo by the shoulders. " We need to find Benson! He's danger! " At the whole the flamingo and it's rider burst through the hole making it's way inside.
" Move-move! " He quickly grabbed her
" We need to find another gift... " Wolf said in defeat.
" We can always go back for the hub cap. " Dave suggested. " I'll consider telling, Kipo its from the both of us. "
" What was the name of that store where you found it? "
" I don't know, Parts something. Oh! " He remembered the name. " Parts Etc. Check out mind, razor sharp. "
" Of course! "
They made their way back and Wolf noticed something about the sign, two T's were missing and it spelled a different word.
" P...a..r...s...e...c. Parsec... " Wolf realized this was what Kipo's father wanted her to find. " Dave your a geniu- " She cut herself short before saying the word getting a look from the bug. " Uh, I mean, great job mu-Well, good job. Dave, job. "
" I did not follow a word of that. " He said shaking his head.
" Were done searching! We already found Kipo's gift! " She then noticed they were one person short. " Where's Mandu? " The said pig was scarred standing right next to a car and dashed right underneath it. From above, she noticed there were two of Scarlemagne's nobles in the air, riding flamingos.
As Dave was preparing to fly, he cried out in pain and he turned into an old man. " It's like realizing your useful causes you to be not to be useful. " Wolf said before dragging the now old bug and his skin into the store.
" Uh...Sure you saw something down here? "
The orangutan asked.
" You doubt my eyes? " His female Tarsier companion asked blinking them taking off a hold able mask.
Back with Chris and Kipo they'd just exited out of a doorway jumping down to the bottom of the stairs.
" I just want this to go away! " Kipo cried out gripping her new furry arm while Chris was moving stuff aside as fast as he could. " But it won't! "
" Humans wait! " The rider said coming out the same way they did. " Scarlemagne wants you both to dance for him. " He said just as the flamingo lunged right at them.
However before the flamingo got closer to them, it was suddenly stopped.
The cause of it, was Chris and much to Kipo's shock he also had fur, but it was on both arms. Compared to hers they had stripes, instead of spots and it was the same color as his skin. " And I say this onto you... " He said giving off a feral growl. " NO! " With sudden new strength he rushed over to the wall and slammed the flamingo into the wall. He then did a back flip quickly going back over to Kipo.
" W-Wha... " She couldn't believe what she was seeing or what she'd just saw. " H- "
" Questions later. " Chris said before kicking the door open and they both rushed out with the flamingo right behind them. Up ahead, they spotted Benson eating a snow cone.
" Hey, guys where-Whoa! " Chris didn't greet him, but instead grabbed his companion putting him over his shoulder. " Whoa! Chris since when do you have fur!? And why is there a flamingo chasing us!? "
" Not now Benson! " The silver teen replied as they dashed by the elephant the duo had run into earlier.
" Respect the rules of the park! " The elephant yelled out distracting the rider. Enough not to notice the rat land van came up crashing them both into it and made a quick turn going right beside the trio.
" Get in! " Amy yelled out and so Chris threw Benson inside leapt in as well before assisting Kipo. As the door closed, Kipo poked her head through the window looking back and saw the mask of the rider fall off and gasped.
" He's a human... " Kipo said in shock. " Guys? Do you see that? " They both stuck their heads through the window. " That's another human! "
" So that's what Scarlemagne does with the humans... " Benson breathed in disbelief. " No thanks! "
" Ditto. " Chris agreed and was frightened a bit by this new realization.
" Attention Rat Land, VIP's. " Amy said holding a microphone. " The park will be closing early do to unforeseen air raid. " She announced. " Better step on it Brad! " Her partner emerged from the air duct holding out a piece of paper.
" Before you go, can we ask you sign this survey rating your experience here in Rat Land. "
Not to long after, they arrived back at the spot where they were picked up. They'd all filled in the surveys, and Kipo was filling one for herself.
" If you could try and forget the whole, Flamingo rider business, we'd really appreciate it. " Amy said nervously.
" Please give us a ten...Please give us a ten. " Brad begged under his breath.
" Stop it Brad! " Amy said. " Your gonna make them feel like they have to! " Kipo gave them her survey and they both inspected it.
" Yes! " They were both pleased with the good rating they got for their amusement park. Once they were done, they headed back to their van and drove off. As this was happening, Kipo felt her arm shaking and they noticed within minutes the fur was gone making her gasp in shock.
" It's gone now... "
" For right now... " Chris said as he closed his eyes and just like that the fur on his arms disappeared. " But there will be more. "
" Chris, what's happening to me!? And why did you grow fur!? "
" Look, I'll answer your question later. Now's not the best time. " He answered.
" How can this not be the best time!? " She asked a little frustrated with his response.
" I've seen a lot of weird things on the surface before... " Benson said. " But I ain't never seen anything like what you two have. "
" My dads a scientist... " Kipo spoke in realization. " Maybe he'll know what's happening. If we can find him...Until then, can...we all keep this to ourselves? "
" Of course. " Benson answered. " besides, who knew a first surface birthday can be so epic? "
Back with Wolf she and her two companions were still hiding and Scarlemagne's nobles were still on patrol. Hiding underneath a car she and Dave felt one of the flamingo's sniffing underneath until she threw aside the bugs old skin which was eaten. She then covered his mouth to prevent him from snoring.
" Must've imagined it. " The tassier said. " Wanna move on? "
" Yeah, this place is dead anyway. " The orangutan said before they took off into the air allowing them to leave from their hiding spot.
" Who's he calling dead? I'm alive. " Old Dave said.
" Hello? Kipo's dad? Are you in here? " She called out but didn't get an answer while Dave bumped into a mop. As he was having a delusional moment Wolf noticed something sticking out. It was the letter T's for the outside of the sign and they were crossed together like an X. With her interest peaked, she moved it aside and there was revealed to be an envelope with a purple symbol on it.
" What is it? " Dave asked walking up to her. " Also where are we? "
" It's a rams head. " Wolf knew what the symbol was. " That's Kipo's birth sign, Aries. " Turning it around she opened it, and read out what appeared to be a message: " Kipo, this will help you find the second clover. Love dad. "
" Someone drew spaghetti on the back. " The old bug pointed making her turn it around to see the numbers 3262 like on the sign and other symbols which were most likely other clues.
" It's map, grandpa. A map to the second clover. Which means...Kipo's people has a second burrow. "
" Oh my! This is the perfect gift. I bet you, she'll be so happy. She can finally be able to head back underground with her mole people, and forget we ever existed. " Dave said not in his right state of mind. " I'll always remember her. " One of his antenna's fell off making her sigh and looked back at the map, feeling very conflicted.
After regrouping back at the sign, Benson went to tend to Dave who reverted back to being a baby. As for Chris and Kipo, they told Wolf what had transpired at the park and what they'd seen.
" We saw those Flamingo riders to. " Wolf said. That maybe why Scarlemagne is after your people. I think he wants to turn them into more of those, weird nobles. "
" No Wolf, he want's to turn them into his slaves. " Chris spoke up earning a look from everyone. " Now we know the truth of why he's targeting humans. That guy we were chased by said, Scarlemagne wanted us to dance for him. Hearing that gave me an answer, To him, humans are just entertainment for him. "
" Even my dad? " Kipo asked sadly.
" Now we have even more reason to find him and your people. " Chris said lightly gripping her right hand with both of his in reassurance. " The sooner we figure out the clues he left for you, the sooner we'll find them. Then hopefully, we can figure out someway how we can free them. "
" Thank you Chris. " She said lightly blushing at his touch that didn't go unnoticed by Benson who smirked. Kipo shook her head to calm herself down. " Right! Present time! " Her mood changed standing up. " This is supposed to be, our birthday. " She reaches into her pocket and they both have their hands against their backs.
Wolf suddenly flinched at how close Kipo was touching her. But then she received her gift, it was a pink flower hairpin.
" Because, I notice whenever you fight, your hair gets in your eyes. "
" It's uh..." Wolf didn't expect her to notice that problem and address it. " Useful. Thanks. "
" Your turn birthday twin! " Kipo said eagerly.
" Uh... " She pulls out her gift.
" Aah...It's from the jacket, I liked. " She slides the sleeve onto her right arm. " I love it. Thank you. " She starts flexing it a bit.
" Hold up... " Chris chimed in. " Were almost done. " The silver teen reached into his backpack pulling out a red bandana with a white skull, and button pin with a star symbol on it.
Kipo gasped in surprise. " Chris, you got gifts for us? "
" Yeah, I noticed these as we were leaving, and figured why not. " He first places the star pin on the front of her shirt, right next to the little planet. " For Kipo, and now Wolf. " He kneels down to Wolf's level and began tying it around her right shoulder. Once it was secured in place he stood back up.
" There we go, now you got something that makes you look more badass. "
" Thanks Chris. " Kipo said already liking her pin while Wolf gazed at her latest decoration.
" Sweet sleeve! " Benson came around holding Dave who was now an infant again. " One mans trash or junk... "
" Is another girls fashion statement! " Kipo finished off the rest of the line. " I don't know about you three, but I am ready to get back to cracking that clue. " She walks over to the ladder. " In fact, I feel like walking. It's nice to know it's always deadly on the surface. " She said before going down while the others were going down the ladder.
Wolf was the last to join them, and brought out the letter Kipo's father had left for her. She was very conflicted right now and didn't know if she wanted to show it to her or not. With a sigh she kneeled down to pick up her weapon. As she did, the young survivor heard an angry snort. It was Mandu glaring at her. If the pig was able to speak, she'd want to know why Wolf didn't give Kipo the map and why she was hiding it from her.
" What are you looking at? " With a grunt she went down the ladder leaving a very angry Mandu.
Later on, time seemed to go by really quick because right now, it was the dead of night. The group was still trying to figure out where to go next, and Kipo was more then determined to cracking the clue her father had left. However, along the way, they decided that it'd be best to rest up and catch up on some sleep.
Once again, Chris was on watch, now that they were out in the more open areas. There could easily be other Mega Mutes around, plus, there were also the Mod Frogs to worry about. Though they were lucky enough not to run into them, it was best to stay alert considering their luck so far.
While everyone else was asleep, it turned out not everyone, had the same idea. When Chris came back to the camp, he noticed Kipo wasn't there. Naturally he looked around and soon enough found her right near the river.
Clearly she had a lot on her mind, Chris could tell this much, but he noticed sometimes Kipo would hold back her emotions for the sake of others. Like what she did back at the sign changing the subject to the birthday gift exchange.
Chris also knew, he had to try and put her at ease considering what happened back at Rat Land. So, he waked forward.
" Kipo? " She remained silent and kept looking forward. " Kipo? What's wrong? "
" I don't know...I just can't sleep. "
" Want to talk about it? " He sat down beside her.
" I guess I just have a lot on my plate right now... " She began. " Trying to find dad and my people, trying to solve his clue, and now... " Kipo gazes at her right arm. " Now I'm growing fur... " She then gasped in realization. " You also grew fur! What ia up with that? "
" It's an easy pill to swallow, and I don't want to add more stress. You've had just about plenty. "
" Chris please...I need to know the truth. "
" The truth... " Chris repeated what she said and widened his eyes in realization. " The truth. " He now know what had to be done.
" Up till now, I've been keeping a secret. I'm part Mute, Kipo. " He turned looking her straight into the eye and he could tell she was shocked beyond belief of what she was hearing. " I've kept my ability's hidden, as I lived my life up here on the surface to bring less attention to myself. But the truth is, I was born like this. " Slowly the silver teen raised his right arm and just like that the striped fur remerged only this time his fingers became razor sharp claws. " And your just like me. " Closing his eyes, the fur and claw returned back to normal.
" I know this is all sudden... " He turns his gaze away for a moment. " But you have the right to know. Considering your position. " Chris expected her to say something and yet for some reason she didn't, before doing so.
" Did you know? " She questioned hesitantly. " Did you know all along?...When we first met? "
"...Yes...I did. "
" Why didn't you say anything? "
" And what would've I said? " Chris questioned. " To tell you, you didn't fully know what you really were? What would've you done with the roles were switched? "
" Probably the same thing...I guess... " Kipo responded as he placed a hand on her shoulder.
" It's alright, your just confused and scared, and I understand. Kipo? Did your father seem, normal? "
" What do you mean? "
" I'm trying to figure out, where you inherited it from. Maybe, not him, your mother maybe? What was she like? "
" Uh...My mom passed away when I was still a baby. "
" Oh...Sorry. " He apologized.
" What about you? " She changed the subject and found this as a good time to learn more about him. " Was your mother part mute too? "
" No. Father was, my mother was human. She knew of his true nature. But learning this fact isn't your only concern is it? " He got no response and now realized something else. " Your worried about Wolf finding out... "
" What will she think of me? " Kipo asked with worry in her tone. " I know she doesn't like Mutes, but I don't want our friendship to end. "
" That time will come, if your friendship is going to continue. You have to tell her the truth. But lets not worry about that now. You should get back to sleep. "
" Alright. "
After that talk the two headed back inside for some rest for the night.
To be continued
Hope you all enjoyed this, sorry for not updating, when this already done. But I've been busy with work, other stuff and finally playing Doom Eternal.
Funny thing, I preordered it for my brothers birthday, but then all the places including game stop were closed down do to the virus. Until three days ago which was when we finally got the damn thing.
Now replying back to reviewers
Gabeherndon308
I actually did, and again sorry about that mistake, I forgot to add in the last part of the chapter. So hope this makes up for it.
Reviewe Dude.
Nah, I've never been into Far Cry, but adding some elements into possibly a future chapter could work, just P.M me and we can try and talk about something.
Bobbyjenkins398
Thank you and hope this answered some of your questions.
ROCuevas
Your too kind :) And hope you feel the same with this.
Theshipping (Guest)
Happy to see that you enjoyed it and did you review this chapter twice now?
