Chapter Two

Rico had just woken up to find he was in the lowest bunk. His head felt like it was on fire. He wanted to grown but couldn't find the strength to do so. He heard a voice say, "How's he doing?" He recognized it but couldn't find the face that matched. "He's doing better. He just woke up." He wanted to smile apron knowing someone, or something, was looking out for him. He opened his eyes slowly to find two creatures hovering above him. "How do you feel Rico?" Said the shortest one. How do I feel? I feel like crap! He wanted to shout this last part but only groaned. "His brain seems to be functioning properly." Said the taller one. "Get some rest there Rico. We'll be in the next room." Said the short one. Rico smiled and fell asleep almost instantly.

Where ever Kowalski is... Blowhole had left Kowalski and Marlene in two separate cages only inches away from each other. Kowalski could hardly look at Marlene. But something told him to feel sorry for her. She's a traitor! Feel no sorrow for her, she chose this and betrayed you and your team! Said a first angry voice. A softer one followed. He's controlling her. She didn't chose this! Think Kowalski. What would Skipper do at a time like this? Kowalski couldn't bare the thought of his team at this time. But he did wonder what Skipper would do, even though he knew the answer. Skipper would kick Blowholes' tail. Kowalski smirked. If that is what Skipper would do, that's what he would do. "Don't worry Marlene. I'll get you out of this even if it's the last thing I do."

In the sewers...

"But shouldn't we wait until Rico is better?" Asked Private.

"Private, Private, Private. If we wait, Kowalski might die." Said Skipper in a matter-of-factually voice.

"But, why are we going to the rats?" Asked Private.

"To see if your ready."

"Ready for what?"

"This mission."

"But what if I'm not?"

"Then you'll take care of Rico."

"But..." Private stopped short when a massive cage fell on top of him. "Welcome to rat town. I heard your little conversation, and I'd be glad to pulverize, I mean, "help" you." Said the rat king.

"Skipper?" Private said with wide eyes.

Suddenly the rat king was on top of Private. Private screamed in pain while he was put in a head lock.

"PRIVATE!" Yelled Skipper as he leaped to his team mate. The sewer rats held him back and all he could do was watch the rat king beat the stuffing out of Private. When the rat king finally had had enough "fun" Private was through out of the cage and landed at Skipper's feet. He was trembling and had labored breathing.

"I...I'm so sorry." Said Skipper as he checked Private out at home.

"Do you want the good news or the bad news first?" He asked.

"Bad." Private lipped.

"The bad news is you have a broken arm, both of your legs are broken, and your collar bone is fractured. The good news is your going to live. Just stay still for a couple of weeks, maybe a month or two. But you'll be fine." said Skipper.

He wondered who would look after the two while he went to save Kowalski. He had an idea, but he didn't know if they were right for the job. LEAMER HABITAT

"So, your saying that you want us to watch Private and Rico while you risk your life trying to find Kowalski? Is that correct?" said Maurice. "Yes." Skipper mumbled. This was going to be a nightmare.