Chapter 4: Bad to Good to Worse
"Are you serious Skips?" Mordecai asked stunned. "Benson's really been bitten a werewolf!" Benson was silent as he processed the new information.
"I'm afraid so," Skips answered grimly. "But not by any typical werewolf. Judging from that mark on his arm, I'd say he was bitten by a member of the Tisquantum Ty-Ohni."
"Uh, gesundheit," Rigby said with a raised brow.
"It's Native American Rigby," Skips explained unamused. "Loosely translated, it means 'Rage Wolf.'"
"Rage Wolf?" Pops repeated cocking his head to the side.
"Honestly, I could care less about what bit me. What I want to know is how can we fix this?" Benson asked. "I don't want to walk around in public with these things," he said motioning to his ears, which twitched slightly. Mordecai and Rigby tried to stifle a snicker but unfortunately heard them regardless thanks to Benson's improved hearing. "It's NOT funny you two!" Benson scolded heating up in irritation and a twinge of embarrassment.
"Chill dude. We're sorry," Mordecai apologized raising his hands defensively.
"Yeah man," Rigby added. "Besides it's just a pair of ears, its not like you grew a second head. Just slap on a hat and nobody will know." Benson's frustration began to build as he let out an annoyed growl at his employee's childish and rather half-baked problem-solving skills. As a result of this, his eyes shifted into that of a beast's, or rather, a wolf's again.
"Unless you do that," Mordecai said indicating his boss's eyes.
"YOU THINK I CAN HELP ANY OF THIS?" Benson shouted ears going back in aggravation as his face turned red and he got to his feet. However it wasn't long before he doubled over in pain with the mark on Benson's arm beginning to react as well by glowing. As the others anxiously watched, Benson fought to repress the oncoming change but to no avail as a gray-colored tail emerged from his backside. By the time the mark's reaction slowly began to cease, Benson was rather drained by the short but taxing metamorphosis. He would have completely slumped to the floor had it not been for Pops and Muscle Man who quickly managed to rush forward and support his weight. Looking over his shoulder Benson saw the new appendage and let out a small gasp.
"That's new," Muscle Man commented as he also looked at Benson's new tail, which swayed slightly. Benson (who's eyes went back to normal after the transformation) was helped back down on the couch before looking to Skips.
"Please tell me you know how to fix this," Benson said almost pleading.
"Unfortunately I don't know that much about Rage Wolves," the yeti answered slightly abashed.
"What? But you always know what to do," Rigby stated.
"I'm immortal, not all knowing," Skips said defensively. "There's only so much I can do." The others were immediately disheartened before Skips spoke up again. "Relax. While I may not know much about the subject, I do know someone who does."
"Wait. So, you're saying you know a guy?" Mordecai asked.
"Yeah," Skips nodded.
"Wow, usually Muscle Man is usually the one who tends to know a guy," Rigby said.
"Whatever," Muscle Man huffed crossing his arms. "You can't always rely on what I may or may not bring to the table."
"Anyway, his name is Vick Simmons. He's an expert on all kinds of strange creatures but he specializes on the Tisquantum Ty-Ohni. I met him a couple of years back on one of his cross-country tours. If there's anybody in the world who knows the most about the Rage Wolf and how to change you back, it'd be him." Benson sighed in relief at the sign of good news.
"Do you think you can get a hold of him?"
"Probably. His number's stashed somewhere back at my place but it might take a bit of time to find."
"Do what you have to do," Benson said. "The sooner, the better."
"Alright. But there is one more thing," Skips said that gained everyone's attention. "While I may not know much about the Rage Wolf, I do know one thing: they're called Rage Wolves for a reason."
"Huh?" the others muttered confused.
"Think back Benson, was there ever a time you weren't angry, irritated or otherwise that the mark didn't react to?" Benson thought for a minute and realized Skips was right. There really wasn't a time that the mark reacted when it wasn't linked to any form of vexation (save for the strange dream but for all Benson knew, fear or stress could have triggered it). "My guess is that any kind of anger or duress will speed up the transformation process. Meaning, until we find some kind of cure, you've got to stay calm."
"Alright I'll try," Benson said with a nod before a thought occurred to him. "But what about today's work. We still have to get ready for the evaluation."
"Then we'll just have to split up to take care of everything at once," Skips asserted. "Muscle Man, High Fives, and Thomas can take care of what little work is remaining; including hauling the crashed cart back to the garage."
"No problem bro," Muscle Man assured as High Fives nodded. Thomas however was a little unsure before he raised his hand.
"Question: Would this technically be considered our overtime?" The intern goat asked.
"THOMAS!" The others scolded with harsh glares.
"I'm just asking," he responded raising his hands in defense before he and the other two employees left to finish their work. Skips shook his head before continuing.
"I'll head back to my place and look for Vick's number. Mordecai and Rigby, you two come with me to help out."
"Alright," Mordecai responded.
"Pops, you're in charge of keeping an eye on Benson and making sure he stays calm," Skips finished speaking to the naïve yet responsible lolliman.
"Leave it to me my good man," Pops assured.
"Wait," Rigby interrupted. "Why does Pops get the easy job of babysitting Benson?"
"Excuse me," Benson spoke up giving them a cold glare as an ear twitched in annoyance obviously offended by the term of "babysitting."
"Sorry guys but if you were given the job of anything else other than helping me out, the remaining work wouldn't get done and Benson would be in full wolf mode before the sun goes down. No offence but you're not exactly the most calming people to be around. Especially if the person who needs to be calm is Benson," Skips explained.
"He's got a point dude," Mordecai admitted looking to Rigby. "Come on," he motioned. The childish raccoon merely crossed his arms and huffed a "fine" before following Mordecai and Skips out the door. Now alone, Pops and Benson exchanged quick looks before Pops spoke first.
"So Benson, what do you normally like to do to relax?" The slightly hairier gumball machine just sighed and got to his feet.
"You know Pops, I think I'm going to go and finish today's paper work," he said before starting to head to his office. However, Pops stopped him by blocking the doorway.
"Benson please. If there's even the slightest chance that it could aggravate your, erm, condition, I don't want to risk it," Pops said gently.
"'Condition?' What are you, some kind of hopeless case?" the same strangely dark inner voice from before spoke up. Unsettled by the once more out-of-nowhere comment, he put the voice out of his head before turning back to Pops who was awaiting a response.
"It'll be fine Pops," Benson insisted. "Besides, if I don't get it done, Mr. Maellard will—"
"Papa will understand if we just tell him you aren't feeling well," Pops interjected.
"Somehow, I doubt that," Benson started harshly more to himself than anything as he crossed his arms. However, upon seeing the look of utter apprehensiveness (complete with big wet eyes and light whimpering) Benson immediately softened, his ears lying back against his head. A let out a sigh of defeat; he hated it when Pops played dirty like that. "Fine, I'll put it off until tomorrow." Immediately the lolliman perked up.
"Oh good show," he cheered before leading Benson back over to the couch. "Why don't you just watch the Telly while I whip up some soothing chamomile tea." Benson of course would have preferred a cup of coffee to tea any day but didn't argue with the lolliman. As Pops went into the kitchen to prepare a cup, Benson let out another sigh before flipping on the TV hoping to drown out his concerns over some mind-numbing television.
An hour later (around 1:15 pm), Benson was seated at the kitchen table sipping from another poured cup of tea. Nothing particularly good had been on TV, just the typical news channels, cheesy Spanish dramas, and lowbrow cartoons. Benson had contemplated watching the rented movies from last night but when his gaze fell upon the monster movie cover, he immediately changed his mind. So now he sat at the table drumming his fingers on the wooden surface and resting his chin in his other hand that was propped up on his elbow. He watched Pops pour himself another cup before the elder gentleman looked to Benson's cup.
"Benson, you've barely touched your tea," he said with a hint of worry.
"It's my third cup Pops. And no offence but I think if I have anymore, I'll be sick," Benson replied. "My uh, tastes have kind of changed you know."
"It's quite alright," Pops nodded in understanding. "Perhaps some finger sandwiches would be better suited to your new palate," he suggested getting up from his seat and heading to the fridge to prepare them.
"Some tea party," Benson muttered under his breath quietly enough for Pops not to hear. He knew the lolliman meant well but he just couldn't help keep the building irritation out of his system. Benson took several deep breaths in an effort to calm himself. "I hope the others find a solution to this mess and fast," he said this time loud enough for Pops to hear.
"I'm sure they will," Pops comforted. Before Benson could reply, his ears perked up from a sound of a car engine that came from outside. Pops, naturally unable to hear the things Benson now could, watched curiously as his friend/boss's head turned to the direction of the front door in the other room. Before Pops could ask what the matter was a knock was heard at the door. Exchanging quick looks of puzzlement, Pops went to answer it. At the front door was Audrey in her usual pink sweater and skirt.
"Ms. Audrey? What a surprise," Pops greeted stunned. Benson, who was listening in from the kitchen paled upon learning who was at the door.
"Hello, uh, Pops right?" Audrey asked with a polite smile.
"Indeed. Tell me, what brings you here?" the lolliman asked curiously as he let the young woman in.
"Well, I was hoping to see Benson. We had planned to have a date later tonight but my work accidentally scheduled me on someone else's shift so I managed to get the day off. I figured maybe I would surprise him with a lunch date instead. I guess he didn't tell you. Is he around?" Benson slapped a hand to his forehead. Their date! How could he be so stupid to forget their date? Pops on the other hand contemplated the given predicament until he got a clever idea.
"Oh of course. I'll go fetch him. In the meantime, please make yourself at home and I'll be back in a jiffy," Pops said with a small smile as he motioned to the living room. Audrey politely sat on the couch to wait as Pops went through the foyer that joined with the back hallway that also led to the kitchen.
"You didn't turn her away?" Benson asked half expecting him to.
"Would you have preferred if I had?" Pops asked with a sly grin. Caught slightly off guard Benson fumbled for an answer.
"Well…no," he admitted before letting out and aggravated sigh and scratched his head. "I can't believe I forgot our date—I mean get-together. But I can't just walk out there looking like this," Benson said motioning to his tail and ears, which were slightly lowered in anxiety. "What do I do?"
"Benson," Pops said placing his hands on the gumball machine's shoulders with a smile. "I believe you and Ms. Audrey should have your date here."
"What?" Benson questioned surprised at the suggestion.
"Hear me out my good man," Pops started. "You and Ms. Audrey were originally planning for a supper-time rendezvous yes? Complete with soft candlelight, gentle music and time alone with the lovely lady, hmm?" Pops nudged gently as Benson felt a faint blush creep onto his cheeks at the scenario Pops was spelling out.
"I-It wouldn't be that kind of dinner."
"Regardless, a lunch date would provide as much a calm and soothing atmosphere. And who better to keep your emotions in check than Ms. Audrey?" Pops explained.
"I guess you have a point," Benson muttered. "But how am I supposed to explain the fact that I now have ears and a tail?"
"I have a solution to that as well." Pops replied before rushing out of the kitchen for a brief moment before returning with some clothes in his hands.
"How will these help?" Benson asked with a raised brow.
"To hide your, ahem, new appendages. Just tie the jacket around your waist to tuck the tail away and the cap will conceal your ears," Pops answered unfolding the clothes revealing a black Fist Pump hoodie with a matching black beanie and a blue wristband that could conceal the partial mark on his arm. Benson looked at the garments in apprehension.
"Where did you get these?"
"From Mordecai and Rigby's pile in the laundry room."
"Pops, I can't wear those!"
"Why not? They're clean."
"That's not the point Pops," Benson said shaking his head. "One, I'm not going to wear clothes from another person's closet; especially not Mordecai and Rigby's," Benson explained with a grimace. "Two, this will never work. Audrey will immediately suspect something."
"Benson, I know it's a long shot but if you had the choice of sitting here alone drinking more tea or at least making an attempt to mingle with Ms. Audrey, who by the way I'm sure is growing tired of waiting, which option would you rather pick?" Pops elucidated. Benson opened his mouth to protest but closed it again. Once again the naïve lolliman had made a strong argument and as much as he hated to admit it, he really did want to spend time with Audrey, werewolf bite be damned. Benson peeked through the doorway into the living room where Audrey was still patiently seated before looking back to Pops.
"Alright," Benson finally agreed. Pops smiled and gave the clothes to Benson, which he quickly donned before entering the living room.
"Hey Audrey. Sorry for the wait," Benson apologized nervously.
"Oh, that's alright," Audrey assured before noticing Benson's attire. "Um, that's a rather interesting outfit you have on Benson."
"Its…uh, Casual Friday attire," Benson said thinking quickly.
"Oh," Audrey uttered.
"Too weird?" Benson questioned rubbing the back of his head fearing the answer.
"Not exactly, just different," Audrey responded. "But different is nice every now and again." Benson gave a small smile relieved she didn't further question the oddity of his wardrobe as he took a seat on the couch next to Audrey. As he did so he could smell the faint scent of lavender and vanilla. Benson could only assume that the transformation greatly increased his sense of smell as well as his hearing.
"So, Pops told me about the double-booking at your work," he said trying to get his mind off of the issue.
"Yeah, I'm sorry about just dropping by out of the blue like this instead of waiting until tonight. I tried calling to tell you but you never picked up." Benson mentally slapped himself for not carrying his phone with him.
"Sorry, I must've left if on my desk. Things have been kind of hectic around here today," he said. "In more ways than one," he also mentally added.
"If this is a bad time, we can reschedule."
"No!" Benson hastily answered taking Audrey by surprise. "I mean…I've just really been looking forward to seeing you and…I'm really glad you're here," Benson admitted. Audrey gave a soft smile as they just stared at each other until a small chuckle came from the kitchen doorway where Pops was loitering. Benson turned his head to give a firm look to the spying lolliman.
"Oh, forgive my intrusion. I'll just be in my room if you two lovebirds need anything," he apologized slipping past them and heading up the stairs. Letting out a sigh at the interruption, Benson turned his attention back to Audrey.
"Listen, I know it's not quite anything extravagant but how about we just sit and chat over a cup of coffee and maybe order a pizza."
"I'd like that," Audrey responded. As they got up and headed towards the kitchen they were completely unaware of the wolf-like shadows that watched them intensely through the window before one figure severed the phone lines to the house.
In Skips' home, Skips, Mordecai and Rigby were not quite having the amount of luck they were anticipating in locating Vick's number as the trio searched through the piles of papers and other important documents in Skips' attic where all the mementos of his past adventures were kept.
"Are you sure it's up here Skips?" Mordecai asked looking over his shoulder to where said yeti was looking through a small filing cabinet.
"Positive," he answered. "Though I admit this place could use some a bit of spring cleaning."
"Well don't expect our help with that," Rigby said lounging on a pile of old newspapers with his hands behind his head in a relaxed posture.
"You know Rigby, finding that number would go a lot faster if you actually tried to help out," Mordecai lectured.
"Why? You guys got this," Rigby said nonchalantly as he got up and approached the blue jay. "Besides, what's the point of looking for something when it's just going to get lost again. That's why I never clean."
"No, it's 'cause you're lazy," Mordecai replied with a frown. "And it's not about cleaning. We're trying to help Benson remember. Do you want him to stay stuck as a Rage Wolf or whatever?"
"Of course not," Rigby said almost offended but stopped as if in thought. "But would much change if he was?" Rigby asked tilting his head in curiosity.
"Dude not cool," Mordecai reprimanded with a shove, which sent the smaller raccoon stumbling back and knocking over one of the trophy pedestals where an Indian headdress was placed.
"Hey, careful with that," Skips rebuked as he skipped over to the fallen headwear and picked it up. As he did so, a slip of paper came fluttering out of the lining of the cap.
"Dude, is that what I think it is?" Mordecai asked as he picked it up and unfolded it. Sure enough, it was Vick's number with his name and contact info scrawled onto it.
"What was it doing in there?" Rigby asked getting to his feet and joining the other two.
"Well, the last time I saw Vick was at a Native American culture festival in Oklahoma, where I got this headdress. I guess I must have tucked the slip in there and then forgot about it," Skips answered as he placed the headdress back on the now upright pedestal.
"Well we have it now so let's call him," Mordecai said as the three headed back to the first floor of Skips' home. Skips made his way over to the landline on his dresser and dialed the number. It wasn't long until after a few rings, someone picked up.
"Hello?" a slightly older voice on the other line answered.
"Hey Vick, it's Skips."
"Skips, my old friend. It's been a while; how've you been?"
"Not too bad," Skips replied with a shrug before getting back to the matter at hand. "Listen Vick, as much as I'd like to chat and catch up with you, I'm afraid I'm actually calling for a reason."
"Oh, I see. Well what seems to be the problem?"
"I think a friend of mine was bitten by a Rage Wolf."
"What?!" Vick exclaimed on the other line. "Skips, are you sure of this?"
"There's no doubt," Skips answered grimly. "The mark of the Tisquantum Ty-Ohni is already starting to show."
"Oh dear, this is serious. Do you know how long ago your friend was bitten?"
"He said sometime around 9:00 last night."
"I see. Has he started showing any physical changes?"
"Yeah, he's grown ears and a tail so far…but we've been noticing some other signs too."
"And where is he now?"
"Trying to stay calm so he won't speed up the transformation. I at least remember that much from your dissertation." Vick gave a hum of deep thought from the other line before Skips continued. "I know it's kind of out of the way for you but we really need your help."
"Say no more," Vick responded. "You still work at the park correct?"
"Yeah," Skips confirmed.
"Then I'll grab my things and be over as soon as I can."
"Great, thanks Vick."
"It's no problem," Vick replied. Before Skips could hang up the phone he heard Vick hastily say something that caught his attention. "And Skips, one more thing you should be aware of."
"Yeah?"
"When a Rage Wolf manages to bite and mark someone, they never stray far from their victim until they've fully turned. But if you're friend is fighting to stave off the transformation, there's no telling for sure what they might do." Skips paled slightly upon hearing the ominous warning.
"Understood. We'll see you soon." With that said, Skips hung up and turned to Mordecai and Rigby.
"So?" Mordecai questioned. "What'd he say?"
"Vick's on his way over now. Unfortunately he also says that the Rage Wolf that bit Benson might make a return debut too." Mordecai and Rigby exchanged twin looks of concern.
"That's not good," Rigby said stating the obvious.
"We got to get back to the house and fast," Skips proclaimed as they headed towards the door. However they were stopped by the ringing of the phone Skips had just hung up not even two minutes before.
"Now what?" Mordecai asked exasperated as Skips once more went over to the phone and answered.
"Hello?"
"Finally," an elderly and gruff voice barked out loud enough for even Mordecai and Rigby to hear. The trio felt their stomachs sink as they instantly recognized the voice.
"Mr. Maellard?" Skips asked.
"Of course it's me!" the older lolliman snapped. "I've been trying to get in touch with someone all day but the landlines to the house aren't connecting and Beanteen won't pick up his cell phone!"
"Wait, the landlines to the house are down?" Skips looked worriedly to Mordecai and Rigby as they feared what this might mean.
"Yes they're down," Mr. Maellard retorted. "And if I can't even get in touch with my so-called park manager, then I shudder to think what else isn't getting taken care of. In hindsight, I suppose it's actually a good thing I'm on my way over now for the evaluation."
"What?!" Skips, Mordecai, and Rigby nearly shouted in alarm.
"Yes, some things came up with some of my other businesses that I have to attend to that will have me out of town for a while, which is why I'm seeing to the evaluation now. That's not a problem, is it?" Maellard asked suspiciously.
"No, of course not sir," Skips replied politely.
"Good. And you tell Beanton if he wants to keep his job and his head, he'd better be ready!" With that last, harsh remark Maellard hung up the phone with a slam.
"Dude, Mr. Maellard's coming?" Rigby asked wide-eyed.
"We're screwed," Mordecai stated.
"Not yet," Skips cut in. "We still have some time. You two go back to the house and tell Pops and Benson what's going on. I'll round up Muscle Man, High Fives, and Thomas and meet you back there for the evaluation. Go!" Skips ordered as the three split up to take care of their respective tasks.
Once back at the house, Mordecai and Rigby rushed through the front door, nearly bowling over Pops who was passing through the foyer.
"Mordecai, Rigby. Is everything all right? Did you contact that Vick character?"
"Yeah, but we've got other problems," Mordecai responded.
"Whatever do you mean?" Pops inquired tilting his head. Mordecai and Rigby explained to Pops about what Vick had said and of course, Mr. Maellard's untimely approach as well.
"Oh my, this is quite the pickle," Pops said with worry.
"Ain't that the truth," Rigby agreed. "So where's Benson?"
"He's in the kitchen with Ms. Audrey," Pops answered.
"Wait, Audrey's here?" Mordecai asked.
"Geeze, who else is going to show up? Death?" Rigby remarked.
"Don't even joke dude. Come on," Mordecai motioned as they headed for the kitchen. They peeked in to see Benson and Audrey seated at the table with some mugs of coffee before them, chatting and (oddly enough as it was for Mordecai and Rigby) laughing.
"…So Muscle Man calls the guy over and says 'the next time you want to bring me a live chicken for my meal, it better be on the house!'" Benson finished apparently telling a story to a giggling Audrey.
"That is too funny," she said after her chuckles died down. "Do you really deal with things like that?"
"More than you think," Benson replied before his jovial expression slowly became one of regret. "Listen, I know I've said this before but I'm sorry this get-together isn't anything fancier." Audrey shook her head.
"Don't worry about it Benson. I know your job is more demanding than it looks and you're needed a lot around here. Honestly, I'm just glad I finally get to spend some time with you," Audrey said sweetly as she placed her hand gently on top of Benson's that was resting on the table. Benson returned the gesture with a sincere smile, nearly allowing his hidden tail to wag ever so slightly in delight. From beyond the doorway Rigby made quiet gagging sounds at what the sappy romance, barely able to stifle a grunt of pain upon receiving a swift punch to the arm from Mordecai who frowned at the immature raccoon's behavior. However, Benson still heard the commotion from outside the room and looked over his shoulder to see the three employees standing there. Biting back a growl of irritation, Benson turned to Audrey who had just noticed they were there.
"I'm sorry Audrey but it looks like something's come up. Can you excuse me for a minute?"
"Of course," she answered with an understanding yet sad smile. Benson got up from his seat and walked out of the room a ways from the doorway so Audrey couldn't overhear them. Benson glared at them but before he could say anything Rigby spoke first.
"Benson you dog," Rigby remarked with a sly smile. However, Benson clearly didn't appreciate the comment as his eyes shifted into that of a wolf's again.
"Is that some kind of sick joke?" Benson ground out angrily through clenched teeth obviously taking it as more of a blow to his appearance due to the transformation than a lighthearted comment.
"What? No!" Rigby defended realizing his error. "I didn't mean—" Suddenly he noticed the new wardrobe Benson was wearing. "Wait, is that my Fist Pump jacket and Mordecai's cap?" Caught off guard by the random question, Benson's anger faltered. He let out a sigh as he regained his composure and eyes changed back to normal.
"What do you two want? Did Skips manage to get a hold of that Vick guy?"
"Yeah," Mordecai responded with a nod. "He said he'd be over shortly." Benson let out a relieved sigh.
"Good, the sooner I'm back to normal the better."
"Yeah, but that's the good news," Mordecai said slightly dismayed. Benson immediately felt his hopes plummet.
"Dare I ask what the bad news is."
"Mr. Maellard's on his way over now too," Mordecai said.
"What?!" Benson exclaimed a bit louder than he had intended. He looked over his shoulder hoping that Audrey didn't catch anything; thankfully she hadn't so he turned his attention back to his employees. "Why is he coming over now? He said the evaluation wouldn't be for a few more days!" Benson exclaimed in a panicked tone.
"Benson, please calm yourself," Pops implored fearing it might cause the bite mark to react. "Skips is gathering everyone else for father's arrival and I'm sure that all of the day's work is taken care of. There's nothing to fret over." Mordecai and Rigby exchanged worried and knowing looks about the Rage Wolf that might not be too far behind either. However, they both silently agreed that it was best not to tell Benson that right now in fear of pushing his transformation over the edge.
"Yeah Benson, all we have to do is get through the evaluation," Mordecai assured. "If Vick shows up during it, Rigby and I can pull him away, explain what's going on, and have him lay low until Maellard leaves."
"Then Vick cures you and bam! Everything's okay again," Rigby concluded. Benson was unsure about the hasty plan but didn't seem to have any better ideas.
"I guess we don't have much of a choice," he admitted before a dismal realization hit him: Audrey. He looked back to Audrey who was sitting in the kitchen stirring her cup of coffee waiting once more for Benson's return. Pops, Mordecai and Rigby followed his gaze and immediately caught on to what Benson was thinking.
"We're sorry Benson, but Audrey needs to leave for this to work," Mordecai sympathized.
"No, you're right," Benson admitted dejectedly.
"Perhaps when this mess is over and done with you can make it up to Ms. Audrey by taking her out to a fancy dinner," Pops consoled placing a comforting hand on his shoulder. Benson didn't reply but only took a deep breath to steel himself before going back into the kitchen where Audrey was waiting. When she looked up she instantly noticed the dispirited look on his face.
"Benson, is everything alright?" Audrey asked as the others looked in from the doorway.
"Well, not exactly," Benson started rubbing the back of his head. "You see—" Before Benson could say anything more a heavy knock came from outside startling all five of the house's current occupants. They all left the kitchen as their gazes fell to the front door. Immediately, the park employees feared who might be on the other side and exchanged looks of concern. Swallowing his panic, Benson cautiously approached the door as everyone (Audrey included sensing the tension in the air) followed closely behind. He tentatively grabbed the doorknob before mustering his courage and yanking it open. However, instead of Maellard, Vick, the other park workers (or thankfully another Rage Wolf) a young man in uniform with the word "Tony's Pizzeria" written on his visor was at the door holding a square cardboard pizza box.
"Uh, one large half-carnivore and half-veggie special for Benson," the young man said clearly confused by the odd behavior of the ones who had opened the door. Everyone inside merely released the breaths they didn't know they were holding and visibly relaxed.
"You ordered a pizza?" Rigby asked looking to Benson.
"How was I supposed to know the issues with Maellard and Vick were going to pop up before we even ate our lunch," Benson defended as he took the box from the pizza guy.
"Wait, what issues are you talking about?" Audrey asked. Benson paled at the slip of the tongue but before he could come up with a response, the pizza guy cut in.
"Ahem. So that'll be $9.95 for the pizza, and a tip of course is greatly appreciated," he hinted. However, before he could get his payment, a hairy, clawed hand burst through the pizza guy's chest. Audrey screamed while Mordecai, Rigby, Pops and Benson shouted in alarm (causing Benson to drop the pizza). The pizza guy looked down at his wound.
"Aw man, I'm going to need an ice pack for this," he stated just before he was hurled into his car and sending the vehicle up in flames. The large wolf-like creature with dark brown fur that was responsible for the attack then turned back to the park gang, standing on its hind legs, and let out a snarl.
"INSIDE!" Benson yelled slamming the door just in time as the beast hit the door before attempting to break it down. "Find something to barricade the door!" He ordered as he put his weight into the door to keep it closed. Pops began sliding a cabinet that was up against the wall over as Mordecai and Rigby assisted.
"What is that thing?" Audrey asked in a panic.
"Dude, I know that Vick guy said they'd be close but I didn't think the Rage Wolves would show up this soon," Rigby accidentally blabbed.
"You two knew about this?!" Benson snapped accusingly. But before they could reply at least three other sets of clawed paws broke through the door's glass window, one wrapping a furry arm around his neck and the others grabbed Benson by the shoulders attempting to pull him through.
"BENSON!" They all shouted rushing forward and tried to pull him back by his arms and legs. A brief bout of tug-of-war ensued before the Rage Wolf that was previously banging on the door also assisted and, with the added strength, wrenched Benson out of the Audrey, Pops, Mordecai and Rigby's grasp with the wristband that concealed his mark getting ripped off in the process (but thankfully none of the other clothes that hid his wolf appendages suffered the same fate).
As he got pulled through the window, he struggled in the Rage Wolves' grip until he managed to get free but inadvertently sent him tumbling down the porch steps. A bit banged and cut up but not seriously hurt, Benson attempted to get up but the five Rage Wolves that were present approached. Mordecai, Rigby, Pops, and Audrey emerged from the house, wielding baseball bats and other makeshift weapons, to help Benson but was blocked off by the remaining four Rage Wolves as the more dominant, brown furred one continued to approach the fallen gumball machine.
Crawling backwards in an attempt to get away, the werewolf closed in now on all fours. But before it could attempt anything, a discarded, sweaty yet familiar blue shirt was thrown into the leading wolf's face disorienting it due to its smell. The rumbling of the golf cart's engine caused Benson to look behind him and to his relief he saw Skips and the rest of his employees approach.
"Yo fleabag!" Muscle Man shouted obviously being the one who hurled his shirt given his bare top half. "Why don't you pick on someone in your own hairy weight class, like this guy!" Muscle Man said as Skips rushed the disoriented Rage Wolf with a shovel knocking it out with a yelp.
"Hairy huh?" Skips repeated looking to Muscle Man unamused after helping Benson to his feet.
"Don't get me wrong bro, it looks good on you," the dwarfish green man said as he recovered his shirt. The other four werewolves launched into attack mode as all the park workers, wielding whatever makeshift weapons they could, fought back. Mordecai and Rigby, wielding baseball bats, smacked a smaller Rage Wolf off the porch as Audrey rushed over to Benson.
"Are you alright?" she asked checking him over.
"I'm fine," he assured before noticing a charging Rage Wolf behind her. "Look out!" He exclaimed pointing to the advancing beast. Before it could reach them, however it was struck in the back of the head with a sturdy piece of lumber courtesy of Pops.
"Benson, take Audrey and get out of here!" Skips shouted from his battle with one of a stronger looking black furred Rage Wolf.
"But you guys—"
"We'll be fine, we're not the ones they're after. NOW GO!"
"What does he mean by 'we're not the ones they're after'?" Audrey questioned as Benson grabbed her hand.
"I don't think right now is the best time to explain," Benson replied as he led her away.
"Point taken," Audrey relented as they headed for the trees. Unfortunately, they didn't get far as the leading Rage Wolf with the brown fur that was first knocked out by Skips had come to and tackled Benson. Audrey screamed once more catching everyone's attention as Benson and the Rage Wolf grappled on the ground. Benson brought both legs up and kicked the Rage Wolf off of him. As it shook itself off and looked to Benson who was protectively standing in front of Audrey so it couldn't reach her. The others gathered around Benson as the Rage Wolves took the leading wolf's side and prepared to engage in battle once more. However, the first Rage Wolf did something they did not expect: it spoke.
"Why do you fight us brother?" Needless to say, everyone was shocked and of course confused.
"It talks!" Audrey exclaimed surprised.
"But dude, why is it talking like that?" Rigby asked catching Benson's attention.
"Like that?" He repeated confused. "It was speaking perfect English, wasn't it?"
"English? Benson, did you hit your head or something?" Muscle Man questioned. Benson was immediately disturbed. How could he clearly understand the Rage Wolf when no one else could?
"It is only natural that outsiders would not understand our proud language. Not like how you can my brother," the Rage Wolf replied upon seeing Benson's disquiet.
"Brother?" Benson muttered as he took a step back. The others immediately sensed something was off as they watched the Rage Wolf continue to speak directly to their boss as if he could understand it.
"That's right. I ask again, why do you fight us? We only wish to bring you back to the pack where you belong. Do you honestly think you will be happy remaining here?" Benson took another step back, shaking his head at what the Rage Wolf was telling him.
"Benson, what's going on?" Skips questioned as they all looked at him with probing gazes.
"I—Argh!" Benson was cut off from saying anything by the mark on his arm that started pulsing strongly, almost as if to and respond to the Rage Wolves before them. He grasped his arm tightly and cringed.
"Benson!" Audrey exclaimed not knowing what was wrong with him as he grunted in pain. The brown-haired Rage Wolf approached him on all fours but was intercepted by Mordecai and Rigby who swung their bats.
"Step off man!" Rigby demanded eliciting a growl from the Rage Wolf.
"Away with you!" It demanded swinging its arm and knocking the bats away. Unarmed, Mordecai and Rigby retreated back rejoining the group. Suddenly, a tear gas canister flew through the air and landed before the Rage Wolves before cracking open and releasing an unpleasant stench that actually drove the Rage Wolves back as they whined and covered their noses. The screeching of tires caught everyone's attention as a clunky van pulled up to the scene and a man in his early or mid 50s got out. He was a somewhat portly man with graying hair tied back in a ponytail and sporting spectacles on the bridge of his nose, wearing a tan leather vest with tassels along with blue jeans and cowboy boots.
"Vick," Skips declared.
"Seems like I was a little late in getting here," the man now confirmed as Vick replied as a flung another canister that detonated. Unable to handle the noxious fumes anymore, the Rage Wolves began to retreat but not before the leading werewolf turned his attention back to Benson who was still trying to overcome the mark's effects.
"This is not over brother. We will return and next time we will bring the pack!" And with that last note, they retreated into the trees and out of sight. Vick joined the others as Benson began to feel the mark's pulsing fade. When Benson straightened up from hunching over due to the discomfort, he could feel the stares of the other park workers as well as Audrey's questioning gaze as she could clearly see the forming mark that she could swear was faintly glowing not too long ago.
"Benson, what was that all about?" Pops asked.
"Yeah, you seemed to have a pretty good idea of what those Rage Wolves were saying," Skips added.
"Rage Wolves?" Audrey repeated. "What on earth are those and what were they doing here?" Audrey questioned. "And what happened to your arm?"
"I…Oh no!" Benson could only utter as he saw a white stallion limousine pull up. The others as well noticed and knew they were in hot water now. Maellard got out of his car and upon seeing the damage to the house and front yard (and of course the pizza guy's car that was still on fire) could only stare at the damage before turning to the park workers, Benson specifically, and gave a ferocious scowl.
"What in the name of Sam Hill happened here?" the cranky old lolliman snapped.
"Mr. Maellard I—"
"You know what? I don't want to hear your excuses Beanbag," Maellard interrupted as he approached his park manager. "I leave you in charge of my park, expect no more than seeing it in the same condition, preferably improved, but come back and instead find the place in shambles like a fight had just broke out and you dressed like a hooligan!" He angrily remarked motioning to Benson's borrowed attire with his cane.
"Sir I can explain," Benson tried to defend himself subconsciously taking a step back as he clutched his arm close to his body. The mark began to react far more strongly than he could manage as he tried to keep the oncoming change he could feel approach at bay. The others of course noticed this as well as Vick who knew the signs all too well.
"Sir please!" Vick begged. "This man (gumball machine) is—"
"Lucky I don't call the cops about this!" Maellard interrupted not willing to listen to what anyone else has to say.
"But it wasn't his fault!" Mordecai defended. The old park owner looked to Mordecai with a snarl.
"I don't care who is at fault for this! As my park manager, whatever happens around here is his responsibility and he is going to pay for it!"
"Please stop," Benson ground out through clenched teeth as he scrunched his eyes closed in an unsuccessful attempt to keep himself from trembling under the strain of the impending change.
"Stop?" Maellard repeated. "The only thing that's going to stop around here is your ridiculous antics otherwise you're going to find yourself in the unemployment line!" It was that threat that sent Benson over the edge as he was unable to hold back the transformation any longer. He cried out and collapsed to the ground as his hand fell away revealing the mark that was pulsing and continuing its formation.
"What in blazes?!" Maellard exclaimed as they all took a step back as Benson writhed in agony on the ground and his body once more began to change. Claws grew from the tops of his metal fingertips and tips of his feet. His already slightly sharpened canines became more pronounced as his other teeth began to grow sharper. And the others watched horrified as his eyes changed into that of a wolf's, which were now an eerie golden in color. As these changes occurred the beanie and jacket Benson was wearing slowly fell off his body and revealing his ears and tail. With one last cry, Benson's transformation slowly came to an end. Worn out from the mind-numbing but partial transfiguration, Benson was out cold before the mark's ghostly glow could completely fade.
"Benson!" Pops and the other workers (including Audrey) exclaimed as they rushed to his side. Maellard however just stood there, for once speechless by what had just occurred.
"What the devil just happened?" Maellard asked managing to find his voice. No one answered him right away as Vick just looked the were-gumball machine over before turning back to the group.
"He's getting worse. We need to get him inside where he won't be exposed to any more transformation triggers," Vick asserted slinging one of Benson's arms over his shoulder as Skips took the other arm.
"Now wait just a minute!" Maellard snapped. "I don't know who you are and quite frankly I don't care. I want answers and I want them now!"
"I'll explain everything once we're inside and Benson here regains consciousness." Unsatisfied with that answer, Maellard was about to protest but upon ultimately relented. The group made their way into the slightly damaged house to restlessly await their park manager's awakening.
Author's Notes: Yeesh! Another long chapter. Hopefully it satisfied you all to make up for the wait. This chapter was kind of fun to write, especially the Benson x Audrey parts. Audrey is a character in the series that hasn't really had a chance to develop outside of a love interest for Benson (heck even Muscle Man's girlfriend Starla gets more of a chance at character development) so I found it kind of fun to create an actual personality for her and I think the pairing has a lot of possibilities that hasn't really been explored, even in the show. Bringing Maellard into the story was also a spur of the moment thing but who knows; maybe he can prove to be an interesting component to the story (if I decide to keep him in there). I also wanted to do a different font style/type that seemed cryptic and ancient for the Rage Wolf language but what I selected couldn't show up on the Doc Manager so I just opted for the English translations. Anyways, you know the routine: please read, review, and enjoy and see you all next chapter!