Johnny Cuba growled softly in agitation as news of the newest Rider spread all over the port like wildfire. He had taken up refuge not too far from the port, but far away enough to avoid detection. He had recently escaped dry dock a few weeks before. He had tasked one of the few remaining crew members he had to deal with some loose ends. Unfortunately, the child had survived and was a Rider no less. This wasn't merely a business ploy. This was personal. He wanted to get back at both Zero and Zebedee from all those years ago. He had to hit them where it hurt. Killing her would make it even with Zero and crush Zebedee. He just had to be careful about this. He knew every tug in the port would rip him to pieces if he even attempted to get close to the port to begin. One alone was dangerous. The whole lot of them would be a death sentence. For now, he waited.
…
Zebedee growled softly as he picked up the familiar scent of Johnny in the distance. Now that was a threat to not just his Rider, but the other Riders as a whole. They had to stay on their guard. He had to alert the authorities and the other tugs. No doubt he was waiting to get revenge for what happened between them. He kept an especially close eye on Wildmask. He spotted OJ resting, taking a much needed break. OJ perked up as he saw Zebedee approach him and smiled.
"Ah, Zebedee. I was meaning to congratulate you on choosing your new Rider. She'll make a fine one once she's grown." OJ said as he examined her. His emerald green eyes looked her up and down.
She's a spitting image of her mother. It's no wonder anyone hadn't suspected her father yet. OJ thought as he looked her over before turning his attention to Zebedee, who was smiling warmly.
"I found her just a couple nights ago on her own. She probably wouldn't have made it if I left her. I'm glad we found each other. I suppose we both needed one another." Zebedee replied. He purred softly as Wildmask leaned back against his chest. She was safe and sound with him. Now she could be out in the open. However, he had insisted on keeping her hidden away from outsiders or tourists. It was nothing more than a safety precaution. OJ's heart sank hearing that. The rumors were true. Her adoptive parents were killed and judging by the stench of Johnny Cuba somewhere off in the distance, it didn't take long for him to figure out who caused it. OJ met Zebedee's gaze and they had a silent conversation together through the bonds they shared.
I picked up Johnny's scent early this morning. Hercules and I are already devising a plan of action if he decides to enter the port. There's more to your Rider's story. I heard word of a family was murdered a few weeks ago. It's no coincidence he's here now. She's in danger. He's here to finish the job for more reasons than I'd like to admit. OJ said, careful not to change expressions so as to not alarm Wildmask. Zebedee narrowed his golden eyes at OJ.
What do you mean by that, OJ? She's not related to Zero or any of us, at least by blood.. That was when it hit him. Zebedee's eyes grew wide. You don't think.. he'd kill her because of me?
OJ locked eyes with him. Aye, I'm afraid, lad. There's more to it than that, but she deserves the right to know. Promise me you'll keep her safe. I made a promise to her mother to watch over her. She's your Rider, Zebedee. You are her protector. OJ said. He sensed a slight bit of confusion and suspicion from Zebedee.
You knew her mother? Who was she? Zebedee asked. His towline twitched slightly. OJ was silent for several minutes as if unsure if he wanted to answer the question or not.
I'd rather not say. It's not time yet. When she's ready, you'll know. Your Rider deserves a right to know. OJ replied. His tone was calm yet soft. It was clear he was doing this for Wildmask's sake. Zebedee relaxed.
Alright.. it's obvious you care about her. I trust you. Zebedee said. With that OJ withdrew and resumed their verbal conversation as if nothing happened.
"But first, she needs education and some training. There's a clan of werecats upriver. I suppose you know it? The one hidden behind the tree line." OJ asked. He knew Willowfern would be quick to take her under her wing. Willowfern knew Wildmask's mother well. It could bring the poor girl just a bit closer to her mother. Zebedee couldn't argue with him. It might be best if she learned how to use her abilities from her own kind. If she wasn't able to control the transformation every full moon it could lead to a potentially dangerous situation for her. He knew Willowfern would make sure she's safe and sound. It was the safest option for now. However, she still needed education. He would need to find some sort of way to get the education she needs.
"You're right and I do know it. Shadowpelt was from their clan. Willowfern was Shadowpelt's mentor. It might be best she be Wildmask's mentor as well. I'll head up there during my break and talk with her. I'm sure Willowfern wouldn't mind teaching her the basics at least." Zebedee replied. OJ smiled warmly, revealing his fangs.
"Of course. Whenever you're ready and when she's settled. Don't rush things. She's still just a youngling you know." OJ said with a chuckle. With that, they parted ways, returning to work.