TimberSpin

by leobkenn

As such an experienced aircraft pilot, Don Karnage decides to try his hand in competitive logging. In his case, helicopter logging, so he enters the Oregon State 6000. And knowing the contest spans 60 hours, he turns to PB&J Otter for teamwork. But can those kids successfully learn how to fly? And if so, can the whole team orchestrate the necessary endurance?

Chapter 1

Ready… Aim… Fire!

The clock struck 1:00 am on Lake Hoohaw, and Captain Hook was carefully aiming one of his cannons below the waterline of PB&J Otter's houseboat and whispering to his main minion. "Mr. Smee, before I strike the match, is the coast totally clear?"

"Yes, Captain," Smee whispered.

Hook lit the fuse and smiled. "On the count of three, PB&J Otter will drown. One...two…"

"Hold it right there, Hook!" shouted two voices from down, beside the ship. It was Wildwing and Nosedive Flashblade on a speed boat.

Captain Hook was startled and knocked the cannon out of position. He immediately put his hands up, but the cannon went off and hit Mayor Jeff's boat. Everyone on the lake woke up in a flash, and Captain Hook carried out a prompt command. "Thin the sails! Time for a prompt getaway!"

Wildwing and Nosedive boarded the ship with their tasers drawn, but as the ship made its getaway, two pirates shoved them right out into the water. The Flashblade brothers tried to swim after the ship, but they just couldn't catch up. They got back on their speedboat, but by then, the pirate vessel was already out of sight. "We'd better give the warning immediately," urged Nosedive.

"We don't want everyone to lose sleep," Wildwing reminded him. "We'll just need to stand guard out here until morning."

Meanwhile, on one of the houseboats, Shirley Duck was having a panic attack. "Flick, Flick! Did you hear that loud bang out there?"

"I think it might be a nearby demolition project," Flick speculated nervously.

Meanwhile, at the beaver residence, Munchy was having a panic attack. "Was it just a bad dream or is someone trying to get us?"

His single mother came in and was equally puzzled. "I don't know what's happening out there, Munchy, but please try to go back to sleep."

Everyone was asleep again within an hour. Everyone, that was, except Mayor Jeff, whose houseboat was at the bottom of the lake. "Man oh, man oh, man. I was lucky to disembark before my boat sank. I just don't know what in the world is going on out here." But before he could investigate, he was back to sleep under a tree.

The following morning, Wildwing and Nosedive woke up to the whole lakeside town, running around in panic. They went right to the shore and sure enough, ran right into the defense effort for Mayor Jeff. The town was building a doomsday shelter only 15 yards from the lake, and Peanut was getting increasingly anxious. "I just hope a bomb doesn't fall on us amid this crucial project."

His younger sister, Jelly, could barely keep it together. "I just hope those terrible attackers can't sneak up on us."

Wildwing stepped in promptly. "Hold it! Hold everything!"

Everyone stopped and took a good look in the direction of him and his brother. Then, Earnest Popped the question. "Wildwing, what's the matter?"

"We know who last night's attackers were," answered Nosedive.

"They were Captain Hook and his men," added Wildwing. "and they're out here, doing trophy hunting."

"So we have to get all of you to your safe destination," continued Nosedive. "Pack up as fast as you can while Wildwing and I stand guard."

"One question," Peanut cut in. "Where are we all headed?"

Chapter 2

Evacuation Day

Wildwing had a nervous look on his face. "Captain Hook or someone under his orders could be eavesdropping on us, so we can't tell you where we're headed until we've already taken off. Just pack some winter, some summer."

While Wildwing took his post, Peanut wasted no time, packing and relayed the message from Wildwing. "The Mighty Ducks just told us to, pack some winter, some summer!"

"You got it, big brother!" replied Jelly, and the whole family scrambled to pack what they needed.

The first Hoohaw resident to finish packing was Flick, and he ran outside in a flash. "Wildwing! Nosedive! I'm all packed and ready!"

"Good job, Flick," encouraged Nosedive. "Now, just stay low while everyone else finishes packing."

Minutes later, out came Munchy, still nervous. "I...I...I just hope C-C-C-Captain Hook doesn't catch us doing this."

"That's just where Nosedive and I come in," replied Wildwing. "To protect all of you until we make it to our safe destination."

Moments later, out came Mayor Jeff with his luggage. Then, PB&J Otter. Then, Pinch and Scootch Raccoon. Then, the Watch Birds. Then, Snootie Twins, Ootsie and Bootsie. Then, Earnest and Opal Otter. And finally, the rest of the parents. Nosedive double checked his list and carried out the further instruction. "Quick, everyone into the armored car."

Ootsie and Bootsie were the first ones in, and everyone else piled in. with their luggage. in a flash. Flick gazed around for cash, gold, or jewelry, but there weren't any. Only his friends, all the luggage, and both bodyguards. Wildwing closed the door, took the wheel, and with everyone on board, including Nosedive, headed straight for the nearest airstrip.

"I feel claustrophobic in here, Bootsie," commented Ootsie.

"Me too, Ootsie."

"I somehow feel like I'm being held against my will," added Peanut.

"It'll be okay, everyone," assured Nosedive. "It's our sworn duty to serve and protect."

Minutes later, they arrived at the airstrip, where Nosedive stepped out and cocked his rifle. "Everyone onto the jet. Wildwing and I will stand guard."

Wildwing stepped out and cocked his rifle while everyone grabbed their luggage, got on the jet, took their seats, and buckled right up. A little to their comfort, the jet was already running and prepped for takeoff. Wildwing and Nosedive took the controls side by side and immediately taxied out to the end of the runway. Wildwing lined the plane right up and carried out an update over the intercom. "Okay everyone, brace yourselves, because we just got cleared for takeoff." And he gave both engines full throttle simultaneously.

PB&J had barely flown before, so they were trembling. "I just hope we don't crash!" whaled Jelly.

"Don't worry, Jelly," comforted her mother. "I'm sure it'll be okay."

Moments later, Nosedive came on the intercom.

Chapter 3

Rendezvous Point

"Time for an update, everyone. Now that we've taken off, I can explain where we're going. We're headed for Corvallis, Oregon, where you'll be staying with Don Karnage and his best friend, Megavolt. Both will be picking you up at the airport, and that's also where Wildwing and I will be parting with you to take part in the Oregon State 6000. It's a 60 hour logging contest, live streaming in Sling TV in 20 days time. In the mean time, just enjoy your flight."

The jet soon reached cruising altitude, and even Ootsie and Bootsie were enjoying it. "This is like first class flying with all of our friends, Bootsie."

"I agree, Ootsie," smiled Bootsie. "Our travels have never been quite this enjoyable."

"And they've never been nearly this great for me," added Flick. "I feel just about as privileged as Mallard Man."

"Not to mention Bucky Space Beaver," confided Peanut.

"Speaking of Beavers," said Earnest. "Oregon is actually nicknamed 'The Beaver State,' because that's who there are plenty of there."

"That sounds even better than Lake Hoohaw!" exclaimed Munchy. "I just can't wait to set foot out there!"

Minutes later, Wildwing came to the cabin to check on everyone. "How's everyone doing back here."

Jelly had a panic attack. "Who in the world is flying the plane now?!"

"It's okay, Jelly," explained Wildwing. "Nosedive has everything under control."

PB&J breathed a big sigh of relief.

"Anyway," Wildwing continued. "How's everyone doing back here?"

"We're doing quite well back here," answered Opal.

"And Munchy just can't wait to get to Oregon," added Peanut.

"It's all nice to know," Wildwing smiled. "because I'm going back to the cockpit for a much needed snooze."

A couple hours later, the jet touched down in Corvallis, just as planned, and everyone grabbed their luggage and disembarked promptly. Right on time, came two airport shuttles, one driven by Don Karnage, the other driven by Megavolt, and Nosedive wished everyone well. "Wildwing and I will be seeing you again if there's a safety breach."

"Wish us luck in the Oregon State 6000," added Wildwing.

"And wish you luck, we do," said Mayor Jeff. From there, he and the rest of the adults got in the shuttle with Megavolt while all the kids got in the shuttle with Don Karnage.

The two best friends drove Lake Hoohaw's residents 12 miles to a secluded lodge in the woods, where Don Karnage wasted no time, introducing the new location. "Welcome. Welcome to Oregon, everyone."

"And you might as well make yourselves at home," added Megavolt. "because you'll be here until further notice. And to govern your stay accordingly, we have just a few small rules. Rule number one: No smoking or vaping anywhere."

"Rule number two:" added Karnage. "Absolutely not hoarding."

"Rule number three:" added Megavolt. "There are two bedrooms upstairs: kids' room and adults' room. No trespassing."

"And rule number four:" Karnage continued. "In exchange for room and board for all of you, four of you will be my teammates in the Oregon State 6000 Logging Contest. If we win, it's a $3,000 shopping spree for each of you. How many of you have wanted to fly a chopper?"

Chapter 4

Room and Board Bargain

Flick, Peanut, and Ootsie all raised their hands, so Don Karnage had no trouble deciding. "Flick, you'll be my copilot for our odd numbered stints, such as the first one. Peanut, for the even numbered stints, such as the second one, you'll be the pilot, and Ootsie, you'll be the copilot. Each stint it up to four hours, and just as in the airline industry, the actual flying task will change hands between the pilot and copilot more or less every 20 minutes. Munchy, you'll be responsible for refueling the chopper and making sure the logs are stacked safely in our two acre score zone, effectively operating the log loader. You do, at least, get a 20 minute break every two hours. Flying lessons start tomorrow, at 9:00 am. Got it?"

"You got it, Don Karnage," said Flick with confidence.

"I agree," added Ootsie, and minutes later everyone went to bed.

Next morning, at 8:00, Megavolt had breakfast on the table and rang the bell to wake everyone up. "Wakey wakey! Eggs and bakey!"

Eggs and bacon were just what the kids smelled upon opening the door, and their bellies were rumbling as they came downstairs. The adults, though, were somewhat slower, anticipating less productivity than usual for a while. And just one thing unnerving was on Peanut's mind. "Jelly, I just hope we don't look like we double crossed Wildwing and Nosedive in the Oregon State 6000."

"What makes you say that?" asked Megavolt.

"I guess you haven't heard," answered Jelly. "Mighty Ducks, Wildwing and Nosedive, brought all 18 of us out here to protect us."

"From who?" asked Don Karnage.

"We really shouldn't say who," answered Mayor Jeff. "We don't wish to make the conflict any worse."

"All the same," said Earnest. "We're glad you made us a good room and board bargain out here."

"And we're very glad to do it," smiled Karnage. "Flick, Peanut, Ootsie, are the three of you ready for flying lessons?"

"I'm sure we can handle it," answered Flick.

"I just hope none of us crash," gulped Peanut.

"Don Karnage will train you properly for it," urged Megavolt. "He's been flying for more than half his life."

When everyone was done with breakfast, Don Karnage brought his three new copilots right outside to his tandem rotor helicopter. They immediately spotted the unfamiliar crane attachment tethered to it. And he carried out the further instructions. "Flick, Ootsie, get in the back just for now. Peanut, overcoming the fear falls to you, so you're first. Get in the left hand seat."

Peanut got in the cockpit but was still a little nervous. "I just hope I don't get airsick today."

Don Karnage sat down on his right hand side, started up the chopper, and explained the controls for the attachment. "Peanut, the wired clicker on your right is used to operate the logging clamp. The red button opens it, and releasing it makes it clamp down again. Give it a try."

Peanut did so, and sure enough, it did close again when he released the button.

"Good," Karnage continued. "Now, holding down the orange button makes it cut through the trunk. Give it a whirl."

Peanut held down the orange button, but as the rotary saw spun within the clamp, he almost panicked.

Meanwhile, Megavolt was wreaking havoc with the rest of the kids. "Hey kids, who wants to play a game called 'Spirit Man'?"

"Me! Me! Me!" cried Scootch.

"How does it work?" asked Pinch.

"Precisely how it works," explained Megavolt. "is that Scootch is the spirit man, running from one side of the backyard to the other. At the exact time he takes off, running, girls, you will start from the side, 45 feet from his path. If you don't tag him by the time he reaches the other side, you're out. It's going to be round after round until only two of you remain, and I'll from there, I'll instruct you further."

Scootch took his starting position at the side of the backyard while all the girls got on their mark precisely 45 feet from his path, and Megavolt made the first announcement. "On your mark… Get set… Go!"

Chapter 5

Spirit Man

"Yah! Yah! Yah!" exclaimed Scootch while he made a dash for it.

Meanwhile, all the girls made a dash for him, and the first to tag him was Jelly. "Yes! Oh, yes! I'm safe!"

The second to tag Scootch was his own sister, Pinch. "I got him!"

Bootsie tried to tag Scootch, but she tripped over a root and bumped her nose in the dirt. "If only someone dreamed up a state of the art cure for bumped noses."

Butter tried hard to catch up, but Scootch was much, much too fast, so Megavolt explained the next round. "Jelly, Pinch, the next round is between the two of you and Scootch. Whichever of you tags him first gets to tickle him for 20 minutes. Bootsie, you came in last place, so you have to get up at 6:00 tomorrow morning to cook and serve breakfast in bed to all 19 of us."

"I totally dread servitude," complained Bootsie.

"Breakfast in bed from one of the Snooties sounds like a dream come true," smiled Pinch.

Meanwhile, high in the sky, the flying lessons continued from Megavolt's best friend. "Peanut, please take Flick's seat in the back. Flick, it's your turn."

Don Karnage held the chopper steady while Flick made his way to the cockpit, and Flick was nervous and excited simultaneously. "I feel almost like Mallard man from here."

"Like I told your friend, Peanut," instructed Karnage. "the handle on your left is to ascend and descend. Gently does it."

Flick gave the handle a yank and the chopper shot up like a missile. "I never thought a helicopter would be this frightening to fly."

"It just takes some practice," Don Karnage assured him. "Now, like I also told your friend, those foot pedals are used to steer left or right. Try it nice and easy."

Flick moved the left pedal forward the right pedal backward, and a little to his and Peanut's fright, the chopper rotated clockwise. He pushed the right pedal forward, and the chopper swung counter clockwise, so Peanut couldn't help but cover his eyes. "I'm getting dizzy back here."

Don Karnage, on the other hand, was encouraged. "It looks like you're really getting the hang of this, Flick. Now, use the stick in the middle to move forward, backward, or sideways."

Flick gave it a push, and the chopper began to tilt forward. At this point, Flick was enjoying it. "This makes me feel totally like Mallard Man!"

The flying lessons with Don Karnage and silly games with Megavolt continued until around 2:30 pm when Karnage landed out front, and Megavolt had the grill in full use. "Who wants some grilled shrimp?"

"You bet!" exclaimed Flick.

"Sounds totally filling," added Karnage.

"I'll have it ready in just two more minutes," declared Megavolt. "Get yourselves some plates and forks."

Once the late lunch was served to Don Karnage, Flick, Peanut, and Ootsie, Mayor Jeff had a further question. "Mr. Karnage, how much prize money is in this Oregon State 6000?"

Chapter 6

Breakfast in Bed

"For first place," Don Karnage answered. "It's precisely $800,000."

"That's more than even I make in a year," remarked Edouard Snootie.

"You sure are a good chef, Megavolt," said Peanut.

"How did you figure that out?" Megavolt questioned in surprise.

"This grilled shrimp is totally tasty," Peanut answered with a smile.

"And that nutrition is crucial," added Karnage, "because flying practice starts tomorrow at 9:30."

"But first, for dinner," confided Megavolt. "I'll be teaching Bootsie how to cook."

"What does Bootsie need with cooking lessons?" asked Edouard.

"Yeah, Megavolt," added Don Karnage. "What does she need that skill for?"

Megavolt turned cunning. "It's for me to know and you to find out."

After the grilled shrimp lunch and a dessert of brownies, Flick let out a big yawn. "I never thought I'd say this, but I could use a nice nap."

"Me, too," added Peanut.

"Me, three," added Ootsie.

"And I'll set my alarm to wake us up for dinner," added Karnage, so went right to the adults' bedroom, kicked off his boots, set his alarm to go off around 5:30, and went right to sleep while Flick, Peanut, and Ootsie all went to sleep in the kids' room.

That evening, Bootsie's cooking lessons were a success, but she went to sleep, dreading the first task of the morning. "I just can't believe I have to be the servant tomorrow, and having to rise early for it is what I dread the most." Next morning, at 6:00, her alarm clock chimed, and she had a bad case of bed head. She slowly got up, went down to the kitchen, put four waffles in the double toaster, pulled out the strawberry jam and maple syrup, and when the waffles popped up, spread jam on two of them. Then, she poured syrup on the next two. Since Don Karnage and Megavolt were providing the safe haven for her and all her friends, she decided to serve the two of them first. "Good morning Don Karnage. Here's your breakfast."

Karnage had faced strawberry jam before, but this time, it was a bite of heaven. "This must be what Megavolt had in mind."

Bootsie served Megavolt next, and he was just waking up. "So far, so good. Just don't forget anyone."

Bootsie went back down to the kitchen, moaning. "This servitude is such a royal pain. I so wish we'd had the sense to bring along a butler." And she put four more waffles in the toaster. When they popped up, she spread them all with jam, put four more in, and served them to Peanut and Jelly.

To Jelly, it was a very different experience than Lake Hoohaw, "It feels quite odd, seeing one of the Snooties in servitude."

"And normally, they're on the receiving end of it," added Peanut.

Bootsie made trip after trip down to the kitchen and back until everyone was served, and afterwards was really, not in high spirits. "Boy, is it totally exhausting, being a maid. I can't believe it ever happened to me. I never thought it would in 1,000,000 years."

Bootsie and the rest of the Hoohaw residents brushed their teeth, and Don Karnage carried out further instructions. "Flick, Peanut, Ootsie, time for flight practice."

"Right, you are," said Peanut with alertness, and the three boys went right out the door and into the chopper with Don Karnage.

Once the chopper was all warmed up, Karnage turned to Flick. "Flick, you're first. Get up front here and fly west to the open field where there's one big log."

Flick wasted no time and had quite the remark to make. "This is totally awesome. "I think I'm really getting the hang of flying."

"Flick," Karnage continued. "Remember how I showed you how to use the special clamp?"

"I sure do,"

"Well, use it to grab hold of that log down there," Don Karnage carried on. "and maneuver it within the orange flags as much as you can. Got it?"

"I'm right on it," smiled Flick and held down the red button, opening up the clamp. His accuracy was still just a little rough around the edges, but he got a nice, strong grip of the log and lifted it right up. Every two orange flags looked just about 35 feet apart, but he still managed to maneuver the big, heavy log through the first set, then, the second, then, the third.

Chapter 7

Going Viral

While flying practice was underway, Megavolt continued wreaking havoc with Scootch, Munchy, and the girls. "Okay everyone. Who wants to go in the ball pit?"

"Yah! Yah! Yah!" shrieked Scootch.

"Me! Me! Me!" shouted everyone else.

Megavolt carried out the instructions. "Okay everyone, I've set up a camera to see how high all of you can all jump into the plastic. And as you can see, I've set up stairs to get you in. But the trick is you have to do it all blindfolded. Ladies first."

Bootsie stepped up, and Megavolt handed her a white blindfold to put on. But she had just one question. "How do I find the steps from here?"

"You have to locate them by either touch or smell," answered Megavolt.

Bootsie felt around the floor and found the steps in no time. She gingerly stepped up and made a jump for it but only managed to catch about a foot of air before splashing the balls. She lifted the blindfold to see that she was nose deep in the pit. "Did I do it?"

"You sure did," answered Munchy.

"Who's next?" asked Megavolt.

Jelly raised her hand.

"Jelly," said Megavolt. "put on this blindfold and show us what you got."

Jelly did so and nervously climbed the steps while Bootsie climbed out. She bent over to locate the top step by touch and with her heart still pounding, made the big leap. To her relief, she landed safely in the middle of the pit. She lifted the white cloth to see that she was forehead deep in balls, so she climbed out for the next contestant.

The nest contestant was Pinch, and when she put on the blindfold, her pulse rate was increasing. While she found her way up the steps, Megavolt rapidly covered the ball pit with a heavy duty tarp. And she make the leap for it only to hit her nose smack down on thick canvas.

Megavolt immediately grabbed the camera and was hysterical. "I just got the viral video! Now you're about to get online attention by the train load!"

While Megavolt uploaded the hysterical video, Munchy was socializing with many other Beavers. "Well Woody, I understand you're capable of building a 20-foot-tall dam in the creek in only 45 seconds."

"Sure, I am," answered Woody. "I'll show you." And he gathered the branches in a flash, threw them together in the creek, and right there was a brand new dam. But he wasn't done yet. "Munchy, I understand you're from a distant lake."

"I sure am," answered Munchy. "but Captain Hook came after us. So we were evacuated, and now, we're out here until further notice."

Meanwhile, Peanut was just about to haul the practice log through the last gate when he sneezed. And Don Karnage was still encouraged. "Just keep up the good work, Peanut. I still believe in you."

"You do?" asked Peanut.

"We're making good progress," Karnage assured him. "I know you can handle this after some practice. Flick, Ootsie, you too."

"Now that you mention it," replied Peanut with a smile. "we make a good team."

"That's the spirit," Karnage encouraged. "Now, sit back and relax while I fly us safely home."

As soon as Don Karnage made it home with Flick, Peanut, and Ootsie, Megavolt had something to show him. "Don Karnage! Look what just got 1.4 million views on YouTube!"

Chapter 8

Hide and Go Seek

When Don Karnage saw Pinch, falling flat on her nose, he was laughing hysterically. "Oh, Megavolt. How in the world did you get Pinch to put on that blindfold?"

"I first got her in the most playful mood," Megavolt answered with a grin. "but I'd never do that to you as you've seen."

"Now, hold on there, Megavolt," insisted Walter Raccoon. "Where do you have Darkwing Duck and Launchpad McQuack locked up?"

"Darkwing and Launchpad are not locked up," answered Don Karnage.

"They're both busy dealing with Bushroot and Steelbeak," added Megavolt.

"Well," Earnest told the besties. "the two of you have, at least, been hospitable in Lake Hoohaw's dangerous time. Just remember to play safely from this point on."

Right behind, the adult's backs, Pinch was still in good spirits. "Hey Munchy, want to play Hide and Seek?"

"Sure, I do," smiled Munchy.

"Me too," added Jelly.

"Me three," added Flick.

"Count me in, too," added Peanut.

"Let's do this," Jelly continued. "I'm going to close my eyes and count to 65. The idea is simply to be the last one found."

"And the last place loser has to give the winner piggy back rides for two weeks," added Flick.

"So, here we go," declared Jelly and closed her eyes. "One...two...three…"

No one opted to share a hiding place. Flick climbed straight to the roof. Peanut stuffed a pillow lengthwise under his blanket and hid in the trunk of Megavolt's Tesla. Munchy hid high in a tree. And Pinch opted to hide the furthest away, but she got stopped in her tracks by Rodrick Heffley, Bill Walter, and Heather Hills. "We know who you are," said Rodrick.

"You're that cute, little raccoon from YouTube's most viral video in five long years," said Heather.

"And we're here to get some photos with you," continued Rodrick.

Bill held Pinch up by her waist while Heather posed with the two of them, and Rodrick snapped the first photo on his Samsung smartphone. "How dare you? How dare you? How dare you?" cried Pinch.

Next, Rodrick held Pinch in place at Heather's side while Bill got his phone ready. "Say cheese," and once Rodrick and Heather smiled, he snapped it.

From there, Bill held Pinch to the ground while Heather tickled her, And Rodrick snapped photos from various angles. Seconds later, He, Heather, and Bill piled into Rodrick's Chevrolet Astro Van and peeled away with just what they had stopped for.

Pinch was just getting up when she heard from Jelly. "Ready or not, here I come!" Pinch tried to make a run for it, but Jelly had the sense to look outside first and quickly caught up. "Tag! You're it."

"Let's see if anyone's hiding inside," suggested Pinch.

"Good idea," replied Jelly. "Let's check upstairs."

The two girls went up the stairs quickly, and Pinch stuck her head in the adults' bedroom, but Jelly reminded her of something from earlier. "Pinch, Megavolt told us we weren't allowed in the adults' bedroom."

"What if one of the boys is using it to cheat?" questioned Pinch.

Chapter 9

Pinch, you Tricked me!

"Let's still look elsewhere first," urged Jelly.

"Alright, then," shrugged Pinch and promptly checked the kids' bedroom. What they saw was quite the surprise. "It looks like Peanut's taking a nap," Pinch whispered.

"Let's sneak up on him," whispered Jelly, so she and Pinch tiptoed towards the foot end of the bed and used the element of shock. "Tag! You're it!" But Peanut didn't move a muscle.

"Do you think he could be way out cold?" asked Pinch.

"Maybe he's just faking it," replied Jelly. "Try tickling him."

Pinch used her tickle talent, but Peanut seemed totally, totally soft. "Let's try jumping on him."

"No! No! No!" cried Jelly. "I'm not going to let you hurt him."

"Oh well," shrugged Pinch. "Let's see if we can still find Flick and Munchy." So she and Jelly checked under the beds, but it was no sign of anyone. They checked the entire bathroom, but no one was hiding in there either.

"Let's check outside, where I found you," suggested Jelly.

"Not a bad idea," agreed Pinch and went out the back door with Jelly.

"This is it, Pinch," said Jelly. "We're looking for the Beaver with white and violet shoes."

"It's possible he took them off to blend in," Pinch pointed out. Just as she said that, she heard a tumbling scream, coming from above.

She ran to cushion the falling victim, and smack dab in her arms landed Munchy. "Thank heavens you were in time to save me!"

"It's not thank heavens for me, though," frowned Pinch. "because when we find Flick, I have to give him piggy back rides for two weeks."

"You mean you found Peanut?" asked Munchy.

"We did, indeed," replied Jelly.

"He's in bed, pretending to be asleep," added Pinch.

"Let's have a look," urged Munchy and dashed upstairs to the kids' bedroom to see Peanut's bed still occupied, but when he yanked the covers loose, he was annoyed. "Pinch, you tricked me!"

Pinch had followed him upstairs with Jelly in tow. "No, I didn't. Peanut did."

"Then he must be hiding somewhere a lot less obvious," replied Munchy. "Let's check the neighboring properties." So he, Jelly, and Pinch went out the back door again. This time, for discretion. Flick noticed he was close to being spotted on the roof and took cover on the opposite side.

Down below, Munchy, Jelly, and Pinch were checking various parts of the next door property: the garage, the car port, under the deck, and finally, the yard. But there was no sign of anyone.

Suddenly, out of nowhere, the tranquility was shattered by David Kawena and Nani Pelekai. "Look David! Look Lilo! There's that cute, little raccoon who was in today's viral video!"

While Pinch tried to take cover, Munchy and Jelly stood in the way, but David, Nani, and Lilo mowed them down like overgrown grass. Nani pulled Pinch out and held her against a tree while she and Lilo posed, making faces, and David snapped at least seven photos of the scene. Once they were done with Pinch, she ran right back inside. "Daddy! Daddy! I don't want to be a princess at all!"

Munchy couldn't help but feel bad for Pinch, but Jelly made a good effort to ease him out of it. "Munchy, if we don't find Flick and Peanut soon, it'll be triple panic for our parents."

Flick was overhearing the emotional chatter and couldn't help but feel bad about it, himself. "Munchy! Jelly! Peanut's hiding in Megavolt's Tesla!"

"At least, now, we know where the remaining contestants are," encouraged Munchy.

"You're right!" exclaimed Jelly. "but which one should we tag first?"

Chapter 10

Heaven Hesitates

On their way home, Munchy and Jelly ran into Pinch again, and she called them into question once more. "Did you say you found Flick and Peanut, but haven't tagged either of them, yet?"

"That's what we said," shrugged Munchy with a look of dread.

"Flick doesn't weigh as much," Pinch pointed out. "so please tag Peanut first if you can."

Munchy made his way to the Tesla and knocked on the rear window five times. "Tag! You're it."

Peanut was so startled he hit his head on the inside of the window. He climbed out to ask Munchy a question. "Munchy, which of you was found first?"

"Pinch was the first one found," answered Munchy. "Let's climb to the roof to see where Flick might be."

"It's worth a try," replied Peanut and went right up to the roof with Munchy.

The roof was precisely where Flick was found, and he promptly asked for an update. "Peanut, is Pinch still hiding?"

Munchy cut in. "Pinch is the one who will be giving you piggy back rides for the next couple weeks."

"Finally! I won for a change!" cried Flick in total glory. "Now let's get down safely if we can."

A minute later, everyone was back inside. It was time for dinner. And Don Karnage was ringing the bell. "I made grilled salmon and radish slices, everyone!"

Megavolt was the first one at the table. And once everyone else was seated, he brought up something profound. "Who wants to go skydiving tomorrow?"

"Not me," said Munchy nervously.

"I should point out," added Don Karnage. "We only brought one aircraft, and we need it for flying practice."

"I was thinking we can combine the two," Megavolt continued.

"Not a bad idea, actually," Karnage smiled.

"That would petrify me!" whaled Pinch.

"Pinch," said Don Karnage. "you can sit this one out if you want. Flick, Peanut, Ootsie, you'll be practicing flying under bridges. For the rest of you, though, the challenge will be to roll out the back door of the chopper in individual barrels, into the Willamette River."

"And just to make sure none of you get lost," added Megavolt. "you must each carry a waterproof tracking device with you."

"Are those barrels big enough for adults, too?" asked Opal Otter.

"Indeed, they are," answered Karnage with a smile. "Megavolt, since water is your weakness, I need you to stay behind and keep an eye on Pinch."

"Will do," replied Megavolt, and that night, he and Karnage refueled the chopper and loaded up to 15 padded barrels inside.

Next morning, after breakfast, Don Karnage promptly addressed most Hoohaw residents. "So, who all is ready to go skydiving?"

All the grown men raised their hands except Megavolt, but Opal was still nervous. "Are you sure it's save, Mr. Karnage?"

"Sure, it is," Don Karnage encouraged. "Safer than white water rafting."

"I've always wanted to make a plunge in a barrel," added Bootsie.

"I just can't wait either," said Earnest Otter.

"Is it okay if I stay on board the chopper the whole time?" asked Opal.

"All things considered," answered Karnage. "Yes. We have to get going, though."

Chapter 11

Daredevil Dives

Megavolt stayed behind with Pinch, but once everyone else was safely on board the chopper, Don Karnage took the controls, and away they all flew. Little by little, Opal started to enjoy the view. "I've rarely flown before. The view from this altitude looks like a dream."

"I'm glad you like it," replied Don Karnage over the intercom and turned his attention to Flick. "Flick, for your next flying exercise, you'll carry out a swooping motion. That means you'll descend 200 feet just before flying under the bridge and afterwards, ascent 250 feet after you've passed under it. Are you ready?"

"You bet I'm ready," Flick answered confidently.

"Okay, Flick, go ahead and take the controls." Karnage declared and went to the back of the chopper. From there, he dared everyone. "Okay now, who's the first daredevil?"

Earnest Otter raised his hand.

"Earnest," said Don Karnage. "I'm very glad to see you in such good spirits. Go ahead and get in."

"I just hope I don't get stuck," said Earnest reluctantly. "like I did at the Snootie Fair."

As Flick made the rapid descent, Karnage carried out the encouragement. "Even though I heard about the time you got stuck in that slide, I still believe in you. Just believe in yourself if you can."

As Flick made the rapid descent, Earnest's barrel fell over and rolled into the chopper's back door, and Bootsie pointed something out. "You forgot to get the door open, Mr. Karnage."

"All in good time, my friends," Karnage assured her and made his way to the lever. "Everyone, stand back."

As soon as Flick regained 250 foot altitude, Don Karnage pulled the lever and out went Earnest in the barrel. He fell in the river with an adult sized splash, and his wife was terrified. "I just hope he's alright!"

Karnage took the controls and carried out a further instruction. "Peanut, go ahead and take Flick's place at the controls and fly under the next bridge the same way Flick just did. Whoever is next, go ahead and get in one of the barrels."

Into the next barrel got Flick, and he was really looking forward to the thrill. "Look at me! I'm the new, young Mallard Man!"

Before Shirley Duck could start worrying, Don Karnage opened the back door again and rolled the barrel right out. Down went Flick, and into the water he splashed. Seconds later, Peanut approached the next bridge and descended just in time to fly under it, encouraging Karnage even further. "In time for the Oregon State 6000, you'll be an exceptional pilot like me."

"Mr. Karnage," said Opal, still unnerved. "I don't want to rain on you parade, but it looks like my husband's in the path of a big powerboat race."

"Let's go get him, Mom," declared Peanut over the intercom and spun the chopper around in a flash. He yanked the collective for a better view and sure enough, he saw his dad's barrel being swept around, like a tin can, by what looked like ten separate powerboats. "Don Karnage, take the controls and lower me on the cable!"

"Peanut!" cried Opal. "That logging attachment is much too dangerous! You could get badly hurt on it!"

Chapter 12

Hanging by a Thread

"I have a better idea," said Peanut. "I'll lower myself on the middle of the cable, keeping the logging attachment way up here! That way, dad and I will be much safer!" So he lowered the middle of the cable and slid gingerly down.

Luckily, Don Karnage knew just where to swoop in. He did so and got on the intercom again.
"Peanut, please be careful down there. Like I said, I need you in proper condition for the Oregon State 6000. Earnest, reach your arm out of the barrel and grab the line."

Earnest did so, and Peanut guided his hand right to the steel cable. "Dad, are you okay?"

"I'm so glad you were brave enough to come down here for me," sighed Earnest, climbing onto the cable. "but has anyone else gone down here in a barrel?"

"So far," answered Peanut. "only Flick has, and unsurprisingly, he totally enjoyed it."

Earnest was happy to hear it. "I'm glad Don Karnage and Megavolt are showing us all a good time, but…"

Before Earnest could talk further, Karnage came on the intercom again. "Attention Peanut. Attention Peanut. We're now heading back to grab your friend, Flick. And from there, we will be moving on to flying practice for your friend, Ootsie." So once Flick, Peanut, and Earnest were all back on board, Ootsie took the controls for his own flying practice. After that, Karnage flew everyone home for some much needed lunch.

From there, flying practice for Flick, Peanut, and Ootsie continued day after day until the Oregon State 6000 was almost at hand. Don Karnage flew Flick, Peanut, Munchy, and Ootsie out to the playing field. And Peanut was still puzzled. "What's with such a big, fenced off area for us?"

"Like I said," answered Don Karnage. "It's our score zone. We'll be using it for piling logs inside, stacking them safely, refueling our chopper, and of course, eating and sleeping in between stints. That's what that tent, fire pit, port-a-potty, and solar refrigerator are all for. The combination to the fridge is 27-9-34." And Karnage landed the chopper safely in the middle. "In fact, here comes our first fuel truck."

The 20 foot wide gate was wide open. In came a big tanker, labeled Karnage Transport. The air brake hissed the truck to a stop. Open swung the driver side door. And out stepped Honker Muddlefoot. "Hey guys, how's everyone doing?"

"What are you doing, working for Don Karnage?" questioned Peanut, stepping out of the chopper.

"I'm just saving for college," shrugged Honker.

In rolled the second truck, this time, with a goose neck trailer, hauling the logging crane. Hiss went the air brake. Open swung the driver side door. And out stepped six foot tall Max Goof. "Hey guys, are you ready for this year's big contest?"

"We sure are," smiled Flick. "How did you wind up working for Don Karnage despite a college degree?"

"As it happened," answered Max. "I got laid off. Luckily, though, various trucking companies are always hiring behind the wheel." And he promptly undid the goose neck.

"Munchy," ordered Don Karnage. "go ahead and unload the crane. Max, give him the keys."

Max pulled the Caterpillar key out of his pocket, handed it to Munchy, and stood back, so he could unload the equipment safely. Munchy hopped right in, started it up, and rolled right off the trailer's front end. From there, a Karnage Transport diesel tanker came in. It rolled to a stop. Hiss went the air brakes. Open swing the driver side door. And out stepped Rebecca Cunningham. "Here's the fuel for your ground based equipment."

"Good job, Rebecca," encouraged Karnage.

"That's quite a move, getting a businesswoman to work for you," remarked Ootsie.

"Truth be told," replied Rebecca with annoyance. "I tried countless different business avenues, but they mostly went totally wrong. I just don't know how Don Karnage got so many right."

Chapter 13

Initial Preparations

"Other than with my own close family," Karnage replied, "I never share those secrets for less than $20,000."

Just then, a third fuel tanker rolled in. Hiss went the air brake. And out stepped Negaduck. "Man oh, man. This trucking is a lot of work," he moaned.

"That sure is a lot of fuel," remarked Peanut.

"And a lot is what we need out here," said Don Karnage. "One tanker for the tank treaded equipment and two tankers for the chopper."

"And you sure have given us a lot of work," groaned Rebecca.

"What about your great sized paychecks?" Karnage pointed out.

"I don't know how in the world you wretched cheater talked us into these trucking jobs," added Negaduck.

"In any event," ordered Don Karnage. "I now need the four of you to drop your trailers and grab empty ones for your next loads."

"We're on it," replied Honker.

"I suppose we must," shrugged Rebecca. So the trailers were uncoupled. The trucks moved on. And Karnage locked the gate behind them.

Don Karnage was right on top of the major logging contest with his teammates and promptly carried out the final briefing. "Flick, Peanut, Munchy, Ootsie, the Oregon State 6000 is only about 15 minutes away, and it's just what we've been training for almost three weeks. Our score out here is measured not by the number of logs we bring into our score zone, but rather by the total sum of log diameters. So go for as many bigger trees as possible, but of course, don't spend much time scoping them out, because every second counts, too. Crucially, though, be careful not to drop any logs on our campsite, because that's where your teammates are eating, sleeping and of course, using the bathroom. Finally, don't worry about a lumber shortage, because my best friend, Megavolt will be using a claw attachment on an excavator to pry all the tree stumps loose. And afterwards, comes a tree planting contest. Any questions?"

Peanut raised his hand.

"Yes, Peanut," said Karnage.

"Where do we report it if another team steals a log from us?"

"If another team steals a log from us or sabotages our equipment," Karnage explained "they're disqualified for cheating."

Seconds later, the whole team heard the camera chopper overhead, which made the opening announcement. "In only nine more minutes, the Oregon State 6000 Logging Contest will be well underway. Logging Teams, take the controls of your equipment and stand by."

Karnage carried out just one last minute order. "Munchy, go get the nozzle from the first aviation fuel trailer and fill up our chopper. Flick, get in the cockpit with me."

Munchy made a run for it, grabbed the hose in a jiffy, and once it was in the chopper's fuel cap squeezed it hard. Minutes later, the tank was totally full. The cap was right back on. And More announcements came the team's way. "In only a few more seconds starts the Oregon State 6000. Teams, start your equipment!"

Don Karnage started his chopper right up again. "Wildwing, Nosedove, I'm out to get you."

"Countdown commencing," declared the announcer. "10… 9… 8… 7… 6… 5… 4… 3… 2… 1… Go!"

Chapter 14

Final Preparations

Don Karnage yanked on the collective, and the chopper rapidly took off. Before long, Flick was thinking just what Karnage was thinking. Don Karnage first went for one of the trees on lateral ground to leave less for the teams using tank treaded machinery. Flick noticed something else as well. Wildwing, who had brought him and his friendly neighbors out here, to keep them safe from Captain Hook, was using a Mach 5. And Flick knew what the Mach 5 was equipped with: Not only rotary saws to cut trees, but also a deflector to protect the driver, when the trees fell, and from his observation, belt tires, for the necessary traction, to pull the logs to their score zone. He had always wanted to try out a Mach 5, himself, but he realized Wildwing and Nosedive had at least one considerable disadvantage. Getting the branches off, in order to drag the logs efficently, was costing them precious time and energy. Exactly as Don Karnage had taught Flick and two of his friends, he used the chopper's logging attachment to clamp down hard on each log, saw it loose, roll it back and fourth, within the clamp, to remove all the branches, haul it to the score zone, and finally, let it down safely. Precisely as promised, he repeated the cycle for 20 minutes until he declared the transfer. "Flick, take the controls and continue."

As Flick took the controls on the co-pilot's side, he immediately put his game face on as if he was more powerful than his very idol, Mallard Man. Once Karnage reclined for his nap, Flick clamped down hard on the very next tree, held the button to slice right through it, and used the arrow buttons to roll it back and fourth. He hauled it to the score zone and dropped it clear of the campsite. As he continued the procedure, he spotted someone else his team was up against. It was David Kawena and his beloved girlfriend, Nani Pelekai. David was using a John Deere feller, with a saw and clamp attachment, just like the attachment on Team Karnage's chopper. And Nani was using a John Deere compact tractor to tow the logs to the score zone, sometimes one by one. The third opposing team that Flick spotted was an all female team, Melissa Hancock, Ariana Grande, and Bani Duarte. Grande was operating a skid loader with a chainsaw attachment to cut down the trees while Hancock was chaining the logs to a compact tractor driven by Duarte, so she could drag them all the way to their score zone. But no matter what kinds of dangerous things Flick saw competitors doing, he maintained maximum focus in hopes of earning the big shopping spree he and his friends were all promised in the glorious event of triumph. And more encouragement dawned upon him. His team was the only team utilizing an aircraft.

Meanwhile, Flick's mother and 13 of their friends were watching the coverage on the lodge's flat screen TV, and she could barely keep it together. "I desperately hope Flick comes home safe and sound. It's just so risky out there."

"I'm feeling just as anxious about Peanut," Confided Jelly.

"I'm anxious, too," added Opal and put her arms around her daughter.

Scootch, on the other hand, was still positive. "If they win, it's tons of toys for all of us!"

"Not necessarily toys," confided Earnest. "For me and the rest of the adults, probably appliances, electronics, accessories, and all sorts of cool stuff."

That was just where Pinch cut in. "None of those teammates are nocturnal like my dad is. I'm afraid they might fall asleep at the controls and get hurt."

While most of the Lake Hoohaw residents were focused on the TV coverage, Flick was totally focused on scoring high. "If that $3,000 shopping spree doesn't please my mom, I have no idea what will."

Minutes later, Don Karnage's smartphone alarm went off, and he was promptly alert. "Flick, time for your break."

"I'll land for it as soon as I drop off this log," replied Flick.

"Not that kind of break," Karnage reminded him. "Your airborne break."

"Oh yeah," said Flick and reclined in his seat while Karnage took the controls on his side.

Chapter 15

Storm Warning

While Widlwing and Nosedive continued cutting and towing trees with their Mach 5, Don Karnage continued airlifting them. And he was totally bent on coming out on top. After cutting about ten more of the larger trees on lateral ground, he moved right on the slopes where he was at a real advantage against David and Nani. He even picked up a few trees that he saw Wildwing was going to come back for, just knowing that the Mach 5 had a much lower center of gravity than David's machine. That gave it its own advantage on the slopes. Or did it?

Part way through Don Karnage's second stint, there came a rainstorm, and Ariana Grande's team found themselves ankle deep in mud. Thick mud that made it exhausting to do anything on foot. It also slowed down their tree cutting by about 35%, because the skid loader's wheels slipped in the mud. And it wasn't much better for David and Nani, because Nani's tractor was getting bogged down in the mud while she tried to tow the necessary logs to the happy couple's score zone, not to mention getting totally drenched. And it wasn't comforting news for Peanut or Ootsie either, because the two of them were huddled side by side with only the tent for protection. "Camping has been creepy for me before," confided Ootsie. "but this is a nightmare."

"I just hope this rain doesn't ruin the competition for us," replied Peanut nervously. "or put us in danger."

The rain refused to stop, but no matter how hard it rained, Don Karnage didn't dare let up on the competition. He continued working the slopes, cutting and air lifting the better trees he could find with only one thing in mind: Setting the bar as high as he possibly could to make it super difficult, if not impossible, for any competitor to fill the deficit within the remaining 59 hours. His smartphone alarm went off again, and this time, Flick knew just what it was for and took the initiative to take the controls again. "Good job, Flick," Karnage encouraged. "You seem to know just what we're doing." and Karnage reclined for his next nap.

While Flick had Don Karnage's chopper under control right on point, Pinch remained in front of the TV, nervous about the rainstorm. "If one of my friends gets killed out there, I won't enjoy the shopping spree at all."

"Me, neither," said Jelly.

"Neither will I," added Shirley Duck.

"If I find out it happened," said Bootsie with a tear in her eye. "I'll never enjoy any new toys no matter what those companies come up with."

Earnest was equally nervous. "It's true that nothing can replace your family. At the same time, though. We didn't think of anything else productive to do out here."

"Productive is just what we have a butler for," Bootsie reminded Earnest and Opal.

"Being productive just ten hours a week would, at least, help with boredom," Opal pointed out. "Besides, there comes a time when you have to start relying on yourself."

"And we just might have Ootsie to really thank for it," added Georgina Snootie. "Not to mention Flick and Peanut."

"I really hope nothing falls on Munchy," said Betty Lou Beaver.

"I have to admit, though," confided Shirley. "Judging by how well Flick is flying that chopper, Don Karnage seems like such a good flight instructor."

"You're right," added Betty Lou. "He's doing better flying than even you and I ever learned."

"Not many aircraft come around Lake Hoohaw anyway," mentioned Pinch. "Mostly just toy planes."

Chapter 16

Now, Look What you did!

The heavy rain still refused to let up, but Flick was simply no less determined. "Not a chance is any storm out here is stopping us."

He carried right on, sawing, clamping, and airlifting one log after another after another until he received a further order from Don Karnage. "Flick, time for another break."

Flick reclined and tried to take it easy as before, but he just couldn't get his friends, Peanut and Ootsie, off his mind. He knew he wouldn't enjoy winning if either of them got killed, but he also knew his mother was watching the TV coverage and was not about to let her down. He also knew that if his team's loss was on him, he would let them down big time.

Right next to Flick, Don Karnage not only continued cutting and airlifting but also picked up his two way radio to address a fellow VIP. "Hey Megavolt, how's the tree stumping coming along?"

Megavolt answered his best friend promptly. "So far, I've been able to uproot 29 of your stumps, but now, in all this mud, there's less traction."

"Now would be a good time for your first break," replied Karnage. "Not to mention the mud is affecting all my competitors, too."

"And you're the only team using an aircraft," added Megavolt. "So why not pull further ahead?"

"I totally intend to," Karnage smiled. "Fellow VIP signing off." And the shut off his two way radio.

Flick got curious. "Mr. Karnage, why do you and Megavolt call each other VIPs?"

Don Karnage decided to be specific about it. "Megavolt and I call each other VIPs, because you'll notice on Disney Afternoon he and I both wear pants amid several enemies who don't. That's precisely why he and I are best friends. Now, I need you to…"

"I know," replied Flick. "I know. Lay back." And that was exactly what Flick did while Karnage continued cutting and airlifting as many trees as he could.

Meanwhile, Nosedive was trying to cut an interfering branch loose so Wildwing could tow the tree efficiently to their score zone, but Nosedive was getting anxious. "This blade is going to rust in this pouring rain out here!"

"That's just a chance we have to take!" replied Wildwing and tried backing up their Mach 5 in hopes of jerking the log loose, but it only jerked the hook out of shape and off the end of the cable.

"Wildwing!" exclaimed Nosedive. "Now, look what your did!"

"This is no time for bickery," Wildwing reminded his brother. "We have to work as a team. You try to get the interfering branches loose while I go get us a replacement hook." And he peeled away in the mud.

While the Oregon State 6000 raged on fiercer than the rainstorm, the rest of the residents from Lake Hoohaw continued watching both on TV. And Georgina couldn't help but worry. "It's great that Ootsie is out there, doing something productive, especially for us. But if a tree falls on him, I'll drown in regret."

"We're all rather nervous, Georgina," said Earnest. "but trees are a very important crop, used in construction as well as furniture."

"Not to mention picture frames," added Opal.

Just then, the parents saw something that made them emotional. The chopper hovered in place about 15 feet above the loading zone, with the clamp on the ground, while Flick was lowered on the cable, and Munchy was refueling it. Flick ran for cover, through the pouring rain, into the tent. And immediately, out ran Ootsie to the chopper, where Don Karnage pulled him right up on the cable. Down the cable came Karnage. Out of the tent ran Peanut. Up he went on the cable. Into the chopper he went with Ootsie. And on flew the chopper. That was when Shirley Duck shed her biggest tear. "Even though Flick's feathers are waterproof, I just can't believe I sent him out there in the pouring rain."

"Not only is it a crucial duty he's doing," Mayor Jeff pointed out. "but he showed Don Karnage he was totally open to it."

Chapter 17

Cheater Alert

While Flick was in the tent with Don Karnage, Peanut forged ahead from the cockpit with Ootsie by his side. "This is it, Ootsie. Normally, your parents are in the 4% club, but tonight, they're depending on you to be the best team player you've ever been in your life."

"And your parents are counting on us even more," Ootsie pointed out. "Your dad needs the shopping spree more than my dad does."

Peanut opened up the clamp, grabbed his first tree, and immediately cut it. "Normally what happens to our dads has nothing to do with what happens to us, but this is a special circumstance, because of Captain Hook hunting us down."

"Thank heavens he can't find us out here," confided Ootsie.

Peanut dropped the log safely in the score zone and moved right on to the next one. "Not to mention flying this helicopter has been the best experience of my life, so far." And he quickly flew it to the loading zone and let it down safely.

While Peanut and Ootsie had the chopper and their team's score in good hands, back at the lodge, the TV was still on. But most of the adults were taking turns showering. And Scootch, Earnest, and all four of the girls were fast asleep in the couch. When Opal was finished showering, she turned directly to Shirley. "How oh, how am I ever going to carry my husband to bed?"

"I think you should leave him right there," answered Shirley. "He and the girls are already getting a very good night's sleep."

"And the rest of us could really use a good night's sleep, too," said Mayor Jeff. "Some of us can probably wait until morning for our showers."

"Not a bad idea," said Wanda Raccoon, So she, Walter, and everyone not already sleeping dried off and retired to the adults' bedroom for some much needed sleep.

While everyone back at the lodge was sound asleep, Ootsie was wide awake and not a moment too long, because Peanut was addressing him promptly. "Ootsie, time to take the controls and carry on."

"Gladly," replied Ootsie, so while Peanut took a snooze, Ootsie called upon his very strongest nerves and clamped down on the very first tree he came to. He quickly sawed it loose and airlifted it to his team's score zone, just as three of his teammates had been doing before. He sawed and airlifted one tree after another after another, taking turns with Peanut, doing it well into the night.

Morning broke. The rain had finally stopped. And back at the lodge, no one was up before 9:20 am. Jelly and Bootsie were the first two up and wide awake, and they promptly decided to make breakfast for everyone else. Bootsie got the scrambled eggs started while Jelly turned on the TV to see how Team Karnage was doing. And what she saw was dreadful.

Wildwing and Nosedive, who had brought them out there to protect them, were attempting pull two logs from Team Karnage's score zone when a referee stepped in only to get targeted with The Mighty Ducks' hockey sticks. And the announcer filled them in. "It looks like Team Anaheim was just attempting to cheat by reducing Team Karnage's score, and enhancing their own. And now, it looks like they're coming after our referees. We're just getting an update from the refs, and they just declared Team Anaheim disqualified."

Mayor Jeff, the parents, and the rest of the kids all sat down in front of the TV. Jelly and Bootsie served them breakfast. And Jelly filled them all in. "I just found out. Wildwing and Nosedive were caught cheating and disqualified."

Chapter 18

Things turn Delicate

Opal was shocked. "Why would Team Anaheim cheat against us if they wanted to protect us?"

"They obviously felt betrayed in the whole matter," answered Earnest.

Shirley Duck was also getting emotional. "After all they've done to protect us, I just can't help but feel bad for them."

Mayor Jeff, though, had some different news. "Flick texted me last night, saying there would be a planting contest afterwards. Maybe we can work something out with that."

"I sure hope so," agreed Bootsie. "If Wildwing or Nosedive tells Captain Hook we're over in Oregon, we're really in danger."

Meanwhile, Don Karnage was back at the controls with Flick by his side, and neither was about to back down. Flick was reclined, taking a snooze while Karnage continued clamping, sawing, airlifting, and dropping trees and more trees into the score zone. In good time, Karnage checked in on his best friend. ""Don Karnage to Megavolt, Don Karnage to Megavolt. Are you still having good success in prying our stumps loose?"

Megavolt was quick to respond. "Yes, your Bravery. I got a very refreshing snooze during some of that rainstorm, and hundreds more stumps are loose."

"Excellent job, my friend," replied Don Karnage with a smile. "and the logs keep piling right up. I'll check in again soon."

"I'll be seeing you around," replied Megavolt and shut off the two way radio.

Don Karnage continued airlifting and piling more and more trees into his score zone. But while his team continued working in harmony, David and Nani were exhausted and grumpy. "David, how will be ever fill this deficit?"

David was just as low on energy. "I think we both need a snooze now."

Nani was still desperate to catch up. "If we sleep now, Team Karnage will get even further ahead."

David tried a more encouraging tactic. "Sooner or later, Team Karnage will get totally tired, themselves. I say we nap for just one hour."

"Maybe you're right, David," conceded Nani. "Just for one hour, though."

While David and Nani were taking a snooze, Nosedive was taking a phone call from Mayor Jeff. "Mighty Ducks Hockey Team. Nosedive speaking."

"Hey Nosedive, it's Mayor Jeff. I have some highly important news for you and Wildwing."

"Don't lie to us," replied Nosedive with annoyance.

"I really haven't lied in 68% of my life," Mayor Jeff insisted.

"We still don't believe you over here," continued Nosedive. "First, we traveled such long miles to protect you. Then, we got disqualified from $800,000 this morning. Now, you're annoying the crap out of us!"

"I know you're annoyed about what happened this morning," urged Mayor Jeff. "but you still have a big chance."

"Liar, liar, pants on fire!" exclaimed Nosedive.

Nosedive was just about to hang up when just a small glimmer of hope came over Wildwing. "Wait, wait, wait, wait, wait! I think Mayor Jeff is onto something!"

Nosedive handed Wildwing the phone. "Wildwing, you talk to him."

Wildwing quickly shifted his attention. "Hey Mayor Jeff. Is there something you're onto?"

"Indeed, there is," answered the Mayor. "Flick texted me last night, saying there was a tree planting contest after the Oregon State 6000. I didn't get the details. But if you team up with Don Karnage and successfully help him win, he might throw something awesome your way."

"What's he throwing your way in exchange for the Oregon State 6000?" asked Wildwing.

"He only has Flick, Munchy, Peanut, and Ootsie on his team of five," the mayor continued. "But if that team wins, we get a shopping spree of $3,000 for each of us."

"There's just one more matter to address," added Wildwing. "Do you think Don Karnage will be open to teaming up with us?"

"Clearly, his young teammates will need some time off after this," answered Mayor Jeff. "so he should have no problem at all working with the two of you."

"And we appreciate that," said Wildwing with a smile. "We'll see you after the logging contest." And with that, he hung up.

Chapter 19

Pride from the Parents

Once Wildwing was off the phone, his brother, Nosedive, turned to him. "Does Mayor Jeff have any good news for us?"

"Indeed, he does," answered Wildwing. "He says there's a tree planting contest after the Oregon State 6000. We still have to look up the details. But if we're totally on top of it, we still have a considerable chance."

While Wildwing and Nosedive got ready for the later planting contest, Flick was back at the controls, getting ready to drop another log. As it came down with a thud, he confided in Don Karnage. "It looks like one team down there is taking a break, and that gives us some time to pull even further ahead." And he swooped down to another tree, clamped it, cut it, and airlifted it ever as before. The harder he worked, the higher and higher the logs piled.

The higher the logs piled, the more confident Peanut, Ootsie, all the parents, and the rest of the Hoohaw spectators became. "I have to say," Earnest pointed out. "Peanut sure has demonstrated a hefty learning capability."

"Not to mention responsibility," added Opal.

"Not to mention work ethic," added Betty Lou Beaver.

"And Flick has really demonstrated all three things," Shirley said proudly. "If we win, it'll be the very biggest celebration of our lives."

While all the parents were enjoying the coverage on the ground, in the air, Don Karnage was waking up again. "Flick, time for your next break."

As Karnage grabbed the controls again, Flick reclined for his break. And at this point, he was really more confident. As Karnage clamped, cut, and airlifted more and more trees. The logs took up more and more space in the score zone. As the logs covered more and more of the designated two acres, Peanut and Ootsie decided to move their tent under one of the trailers. Don Karnage saw what they had in mind and encouraged them. "Smart move, Peanut and Ootsie. Now we'll have more room to safely let logs down." So he dropped the next log right next to the original campsite to remind himself of his next moves and moved right on to the next one.

While Don Karnage soared on, David and Nani woke up from their nap and David felt at least a little more alert. "If we can, lat least, manage second place, it's still a $350,000 cash prize."

"That much sure is better than none," agreed Nani. "We could really use the money."

"Let's put the hammer down!" exclaimed David and started his felling machine right back up.

"Cash prize or bust!" exclaimed Nani and started her tractor right back up.

David pushed it to the limit, cutting tree after tree after tree and lining them right up while Nani bound them all together with cable and towed them, five at once, to the score zone.

The rest of the Hoohaw residents continued watching the coverage from the lodge, but Scootch and three of the girls were getting antsy. "Mama," said Jelly. "can Pinch and I go out and play now?"

"Come to think of it," answered Opal. "I think it's time we all did."

"You're right," added Bootsie. "So how about a disguise edition of Hide and Seek?"

"What does a disguise edition mean?" asked Earnest.

"A disguise edition is where instead of finding a hiding place, you raid the closet and dresser for a disguise that makes you unrecognizable," explained Bootsie "and whoever is 'it' has to guess who's in disguise. If they get it wrong, they have to start over in the seeking process."

"That sounds like a totally fun idea!" encouraged Pinch. "I'm going to go outside, close my eyes, and count to 75. The first one I find gets a ten minute tickle. Is everyone ready?"

"You bet we're ready," answered Walter.

"This it it," said Pinch. "so here I go outside." and once she was out the door, she promptly covered her eyes and began counting. "One… Two… Three…"

Chapter 20

Dress up with the Girls

While Pinch continued counting, everyone ran right upstairs and raided both dressers and all three closets. Mayor Jeff put on Megavolt's bathrobe and a flowered shower cap. Bootsie went straight for Don Karnage's "Save the Red Wolf" t-shirt, covering her up head to toe. Scootch went for a mummy look with a bath towel, held around him with a hairpin. Opal went for a droid mask. And by the time Pinch got to 65, everyone looked silly.

Pinch, in fact, was just getting ready. "73… 74… 75…" and she came right back in the front door. "Ready or not, here I come!" She went right upstairs, and everyone looked sillier than ever. Pinch laughed so hard, in fact, she totally forgot who was who. She even forgot who was absent at the time, so she pointed to one of the other kids and took a wild guess. "You're Peanut!" Everyone else laughed their heads off, and just remembering that Peanut was out in the woods, helping Don Karnage, Pinch felt totally humiliated all over again. But they all still looked just profoundly silly and memorable. So she decided carry right on to her next guess. "You're Mayor Jeff!"

"Right, you are," replied the mayor and took off the cap and robe. "I'll bet if you think hard, you can successfully guess the rest."

"That's it," smiled Pinch. "Time for a Noodle Dance." So she and Mayor Jeff immediately started dancing.

Noodle. Use your noodle. Noodle. Do the Noodle Dance. Solve a problem. That's no strain. Use your noodle. That's your brain. Noodle. Use your noodle.

"I got it!" exclaimed Pinch. "We can get a wolf to sniff everyone out."

"Great idea, Pinch," encouraged the mayor. "but the only wolf who's familiar with everyone's smell is Don Karnage."

"Oh, yeah! I forgot!" exclaimed Pinch. "He's still busy with the Oregon State 6000. And you still get the ten minute tickle I promised."

While Mayor Jeff received his ten minute tickle, Team Karnage's score zone was receiving its 1,087th log from Don Karnage, himself, and boy was he motivated. After he cut and airlifted four more trees, he hovered above the zone and carried out further instructions. "Flick, hold the chopper steady while I go get Peanut." And he slid down the cable in a jiffy.

Peanut climbed up the cable in a hurry, and promptly turned his attention to Flick. "I'll hold the chopper steady. You go get Ootsie to take your place next to me."

"Say no more, Peanut," Flick replied happily. "I'm on it."

Down the cable went Flick, and up came Ootsie, totally alert. "Time to more forward, Peanut. I'm totally ready."

"I just love your alertness," said Peanut with a smile. "Let's get it popping." And he immediately moved on to the very next biggest tree he could spot. Clamped it, cut it, and added it right to the score. Then, for a further 20 minutes, he hit the next biggest tree he could spot, then the next, then, the next, then, the next.

For the next 20 minutes, Peanut laid back, and Ootsie took the controls, but this time, he was somewhat discouraged. "Flying this helicopter was really a blast a first, but now, it feels like I've already been doing it for more than half my life."

"You know what they say, Ootsie," encouraged Peanut. "Eyes on the prize."

"And if we get our hands on it," added Ootsie while he continued. "Our parents will be totally proud."

"Right, you are," Peanut encouraged. "Right, you are." and without talking any further, Peanut took a deep breath for a much needed nap as scheduled.

While Peanut was having nap time in the air, on the ground, Don Karnage and Flick were both having lunch time. "This fire cooked salmon sure does hit the spot, Flick." Karnage confided.

"And you sure picked out the right food, I must say," smiled Flick. "I could eat 30 pounds of this."

Chapter 21

Happy Campers

"Well Flick," asked Don Karnage. "are you still feeling confident?"

"You bet I am," answered Flick.

"And so am I," added Karnage. "Just don't get overly confident, because then, you'll be compelled to slow down badly and allow for overtakes. That's just how a hare can lose to a tortoise, or in endurance racing, it's actually how a Ferrari can lose to a Lexus. In other words, winning an endurance race requires not only stellar speed and cornering, but also durability, speedy repair procedures, and of course, the right team of drivers."

"Good thing we're such a good team of pilots," added Flick. "Otherwise, we'd be exhausted by now."

"I'm also very glad I got my pilot's license at age 17," replied Don Karnage. "Because before I got into aerobatic flying, my lackeys and I were all too well into looting, which that bothersome Baloo interfered with a lot. Now that that's changed, Baloo is only bothersome for not wearing pants."

"Is that why Megavolt is your best friend?" asked Flick, winking one eye.

"Without a doubt, Flick," answered Karnage. "Despite his obsession with light bulbs, he's much, much smarter than Darkwing Duck. And clearly, so is Mallard Man."

"You really think so," asked Flick.

"I mean it," answered Don Karnage. "Although totally famous and adored, Mallard Man has every sense of modesty. So does Megavolt. So does most of Zootopia. And so does Steelbeak."

Flick took the last couple bites he could. "Man oh man, I'm full."

"So am I," replied Karnage. "I think we could both use a nice, long nap." So they both retreated to their tent, got into their sleeping bags, and went right to sleep.

While Don Karnage and Flick Duck were replenishing their energy, the girls continued to burn theirs. "Who wants to join me in a pillow fight?" asked Jelly.

"Me, Jelly! Me!" exclaimed Pinch.

"Me too," said Butter.

"Me! Me! Me!" exclaimed Scootch.

"How do we determine the winner?" asked Bootsie.

"The winner is the very last one to run for cover," Jelly explained. "Everyone, go get your weapons."

Scootch and all four of the girls went up to the kids' bedroom to grab pillows for battle, and Bootsie gave the signal. "On you mark… Get set… Go!"

Four pillows swung back and fourth rapidly with plenty of energy in the air, and after hours on the couch, it was precisely what the doctor ordered. But no one was going very hard on Butter, knowing she was the smallest and weakest. As a result, she, Jelly, Pinch, and Scootch were all going for Bootsie, and Pinch was totally encouraged. "No amount of money can win this match for you, Bootsie."

Bootsie wiggled her way out from under the rest of the girls and ran right out back for cover. "Pillow fighting is harder than I ever thought!"

Pinch and Jelly were now going directly head to head, so Butter crept right up on Pinch and hit her hard in the back three times consecutively. "Gotcha!"

Pinch tried to grab Butter by the wrist, but she got away too fast and hid under one of the beds. "Jelly, this leaves only you and me."

"That's right, Pinch," Jelly agreed and the two friends battled it out to the very toughest of their capability. The two young girls swung their pillows at each other for three and a half hours until they both collapsed at precisely the same time.

Bootsie walked right in on Pinch and Jelly hyperventilating and took immediate action. "Pinch! Jelly! Hold on while I get you some cold water!" So she dashed downstairs to the kitchen, filled two glasses with ice water, and made her way upstairs as fast as she could without spilling the drinks. She poured the first glass carefully into Pinch's mouth. "Pinch. Pinch, are you okay?"

Pinch blinked her eyes and regained composure. "I'm okay. I was just extremely thirsty." And she immediately turned to Jelly. "Jelly. Jelly, can you hear us?"

Chapter 22

Pillow Fight Concluded

"Here, Pinch," said Bootsie. "I got her a glass of water too."

Pinch grabbed the second glass of ice water and held it right up to Jelly's lips. "Come on, Jelly. Drink this. It'll do you good."

As Pinch poured the water into Jelly's mouth. Jelly began to blink. Then, her eyes shot open. "Oh, where am I? What just happened?"

"You and I just got totally exhausted in that pillow fight," answered Pinch.

"And which of you won?" asked Bootsie.

That was what totally jogged Jelly's memory. "I say we call it a draw."

"A draw it is," agreed Pinch.

While the battle at the lodge was finally over, the battle in the woods went on and on. The chopper had just been refueled. Don Karnage was once again back at the controls with Flick by his side. And he had no intention of ever letting anyone catch up with him, so he took the time to grab his two way radio and check in on his best friend. "Don Karnage to Megavolt. Don Karnage to Megavolt. How are you doing on our tree stumping?"

"Megavolt to Karnage," replied Megavolt. "At this point, the tree stumping is coming along very nicely. "I've so far been able to uproot 847 of your stumps, and this excavator is still running like a dream."

"Excellent job so far," replied Karnage with a smile. "Over and out." And he shut off the radio. "Tell me, Flick. Do you have any favorite fictional heroes other than Mallard Man?"

"I'll admit," answered Flick. "I love many Disney Heroes and Disney Villains. Gaston, Aladdin, Claude Frollo. The only one who scares the crap out of me is Cruella De Vil."

"What exactly makes Cruella especially frightening?" asked Karnage.

Flick got nervous. "Cruella seems like the kind of villain who would skin Ootsie and Bootsie for fur coats. And what's more, saving the red wolf is the other real matter."

"That's quite a point, Flick," Don Karnage agreed. "Red wolves, like me, are badly endangered from America's early pioneers. The first pilgrims were the ones who villainized us, just because we were predators. And they just didn't realize we were a vital part of America's ecosystem."

"Is that why you once did a lot of looting?" asked Flick emotionally.

"That was only part of it," explained Don Karnage. "The rest was really to afford the finest travels and the best hotel experiences, often in Hawaii. But when I attempted to get my hands on The Sea Duck for the second time, by scaring the crap out of Rebecca, with the most nail biting flying I could dream up, I was caught doing such good aerobatic flying that hundreds of thousands watched in awe, so we swapped all of our fighter planes for aerobatic caliper planes and have never looted since."

"Well, I saw you one year at, EAA Airventure," said Flick. "And you did cool enough aerobatic flying to make Mallard Man jealous."

Karnage was just dropping another log in his team's already packed score zone when he saw a referee waving a red flag, he no longer had room to land in his zone, so he landed on the path, leading up to it, and cut the engine, so he could talk to the ref. "Hey, what's the matter?"

The referee had some encouraging news. "Mr. Karnage, your score zone is at full capacity. And since David and Nani are now in second place after you, they have two remaining options. Option A: They can clear a third acre for you and attempt to catch all the way up. Or option B: They can simply settle for second prize. They have five minutes to make up their minds while the contest is haulted."

Don Karnage was still confident. "Let's take it easy while we wait for David and Nani's decision."

"If we can fill up our score zone on only 29 hours," agreed Flick. "we should have no trouble winning at all, assuming we stay on it."

Chapter 23

Closest Competitor's Decision

Back at the lodge, Shirley Duck turned on the TV just to check on Flick and the rest of the team, and the announcer was just carrying out the update. "Team Karnage's score zone is at maximum safe capacity, fit to burst, and the Hawaiian Team is in second place. Hawaiian Team members, David and Nani, get to decide what happens next. They can either clear a third acre for Team Karnage and attempt to catch all the way up or they can settle for second prize. They have a remaining three minutes and 37 seconds to submit their decision before they're disqualified." And the on-screen clock continued counting down.

Mayor Jeff came in, acting totally surprised. "Is it just me, or are most contenders at the mercy of our team?"

"They basically are," smiled Shirley.

"And I never thought Ootsie would work so hard in his life," added Georgina.

"I never thought Peanut could do us all this big of a favor," added Earnest.

"And this proves just as much about Flick," added Shirley.

That was when the announcer came right back on. "Only two minutes and 45 seconds for The Hawaiian Team to make up their minds! Just as we say that, they've finally submitted their decision, and they've decided to settle for second prize!"

"Yay!" cried all the adults and all four of the girls simultaneously.

"Yes! Oh, yes! Oh, yes! Our kids did it!" cried Opal.

Don Karnage, Flick, Munchy, Peanut, and Ootsie were now receiving their ten-foot-tall tree trophy and their $800,000 check, which Karnage deposited immediately with mobile deposit. All right in front of the media, both local and national. 135 photos a minute were being snapped, and the referee was right at the podium. "Ladies, gentlemen, boys, girls, and all logging fans, it is an honor and a privilege to present to you the ultimate competitive logging champions. Team Karnage!"

All the fans cheered as loud as they ever had done, and confetti was shot high in the air.

The referee carried right on. "I now present to you this year's winners individually. Flick Duck! Munchy Beaver! Peanut Otter! Ootsie Snootie! And finally, the team captain, Don Karnage!"

More confetti was launched high in the air, and the cheering went on. 30 minutes later, the ceremony was over, and Don Karnage made his boarding announcement. "This is it, everyone. Into the chopper for our next stop."

Flick, Peanut, Ootsie, and Munchy all got in. Up started the chopper at Karnage's hands. And off it flew with the whole team of five in the proudest mood they had ever faced in their lives. Surprisingly, though, down came the chopper at Walmart, and Peanut was puzzled. "What are we doing at Walmart all the sudden?"

Karnage decided to quiz him. "Do you remember what I promised you and your parents?"

"Oh, that's right!" replied Flick. "The shopping spree!"

"That's right," said Karnage. "And this is where we're stopping to grab the gift cards for it. And the four of you might as well come on in for some ideas of what you want."

"You mean it'll be Walmart gift cards?" asked Munchy.

"Not Walmart gift cards, my friend," answered Don Karnage. "Visa gift cards, redeemable anywhere that accepts credit or debit."

While Karnage and four of the boys had a good look around, the parents began to worry. "You don't think Captain Hook tracked the boys down and abducted them," Opal asked her husband. "Do you?"

"Maybe it was The Mighty Ducks who could have targeted them," answered Earnest.

Shirley Duck was barely in composure, herself. "I just hope they're not hiding a fatal accident just to avoid causing panic."

Mayor Jeff was still in front of the TV. "There's no further word on the Oregon State 6000. And none of the kids have smartphones. So…"

Before the mayor could talk any further, Earnest thought he heard something in the distance, getting ever so slightly closer. "Is it just me, or is there a bagpipe parade going on?"

Chapter 24

A Special Ceremony

Shirley put a hand to her ear. "I can hear bagpipes, too."

"And it sounds like they're getting closer," said Mayor Jeff.

Jelly was equally encouraged. "Let's go take a look."

"Okay, Jelly," said Earnest. "But just a quick look so we don't get targeted."

Jelly opened the front door to reveal Scrooge McDuck and Flintheart Glomgold playing the bagpipes and right behind them was the winning team, Don Karnage, Flick, Munchy, Ootsie, Peanut, and even Megavolt. When they all came to the door, McDuck and Glomgold stepped aside. Don Karnage stepped up first. From right behind his back, he pulled out 19 Visa gift cards and just when the music stopped, handed them out first to the parents, then to Scootch and the girls, then to the boys who had been on his team. And finally, the 19th and last one went directly to Megavolt. And yet, Megavolt was the most surprised. "What do I get this one for?"

"Yours is for doing such a good job with all the tree stumping," Karnage explained. "Flick, Megavolt, everyone else, don't go spending your gift cards just yet, because tomorrow morning, at precisely… 9:00, I'll be flying all of you up to Portland for your shopping spree. Just hold on tight to your gift cards until we get there, and you spend them entirely. Got it?"

"Yes, your altitude," answered Flick.

"Mr. Karnage," said Georgina.

"Yes, Georgina?" said Don Karnage.

Georgina spoke up. "Edouard and I wish to give ours to Wildwing and Nosedive, because they've been the best bodyguards we've ever been able to come by. So good, in fact, they might be capable of training new bodyguard recruits."

"Me, three," said Ootsie.

"Me four," added Bootsie.

"Snooties," said Karnage. "is that your final decision?"

"Yes, Captain," said Edouard.

"Yes, your altitude," said Bootsie, and all four of the Snooties gave back their gift cards.

"That's settled, then," Don Karnage declared, so he and Megavolt lifted the logging clamp into the back of the chopper and detached it. Then, Karnage put all four of the leftover gift cards into a plastic bag, twist tied it to the hook on the end of the cable, and declared more instructions. "Jelly, Pinch, help your parents with dinner while I go out to hand over the leftover gift cards. Inside, you go."

Once the front door was shut, Jelly was growing suspicious. "Is it just me, or is Don Karnage treating me and the rest of the girls like maids?"

"Have you forgotten?" asked Earnest. "Flick, Peanut, Munchy, and Ootsie have done their fair share for a while for you and Pinch as much as me."

"And now, it's time for you to do yours," added Opal.

While dinner preparation was underway, Don Karnage refueled the chopper and promptly took to the skies. He turned on his strobe light and made his announcement. "Wildwing and Nosedive Flashblade, please report to the yellow strobe light and signal me by flashing your headlights. Wildwing and Nosedive Flashblade, please report to the yellow strobe light and signal me by flashing your headlights."

The Mighty Ducks spotted the strobe light only 115 feet in the distance, and from behing the wheel of the Mach 5, Wildwing gave the signal and confided to Nosedive. "Nosedive, I'm going in to see what Don Karnage wants with us now. Watch my back."

Chapter 25

One Road Ends, Another Begins

Just as Wildwing was stepping out of the convertible, Don Karnage instructed them further. "The Snooties wish to give you the $12,000 in gift cards they've won. Please split them 50/50."

As soon as Wildwing yanked the sandwich bag loose, Don Karnage flew right back to his lodge, where he was just in time for a tasty, much needed dinner.

Next morning, at 9:00, as promised, he flew everyone but the Snooties up to Portland, and the shopping spree began in a hurry. Much of what Flick bought was candy and superhero memorabilia, both toys and comics, and even some RC boats. Peanut spent much of his $3,000 on items similar to what he had once coveted that he had seen Ootsie and Bootsie with, including $500 worth of HotWheels items. Jelly spent much of her gift card on toy boats, stuffed animals, and just three musical instruments. Munchy sent much of his gift card to wood for whittling and paint to spice up the hobby. Scootch had the sense to splurge on many different outdoor toys, including eight different kites. Earnest and Opal spent their gift cards on bath salts, foot massagers, candles, and other pampering items. Walter and Wanda Raccoon split their cards between private playground equipment. Mayor Jeff went for many retirement items to save for the end of his term. Megavolt spent his card on many different things electrical to use against not only Darkwing Duck, but also Chip & Dale. And Shirley Duck's card went to music and electronics. But Pinch sent her $3,000 to nothing but Barbie items. Don Karnage and Megavolt loaded everyone's purchases into the chopper's cargo net at once, and flew everyone safely home to the lodge.

Later that day, there was a knock on the door, and Megavolt answered it. It was The Mighty Ducks again, and Wildwing had an important reminder for him and his best friend. "Megavolt, Don Karnage, the Oregon State 7000 starts at noon on Monday, and we have three diesel powered, seed planting tractors at our disposal. Do you have any equipment or teammates that you think you can assist us with?"

Karnage came to the door, confident once more. "You may have noticed. I do have a chopper to airlift seeds to both of you. I have Megavolt to drive the third tractor. And I can send fuel tankers to keep all of our equipment replenished."

"Let's join forces, then," agreed Nosedive, so he and Wildwing both shook hands with Don Karnage and Megavolt.

Wildwing and Nosedive quickly swapped contact info with Don Karnage and Megavolt, before leaving, to touch base as necessary. But only seconds after they left, Flick and Peanut were laughing their heads off. Don Karnage and Megavolt went over to see what was so funny, and it turned out to be a photo of Pinch with three fully loaded shopping carts and the caption 'Barbie Addict.'