Holding a bowl of hot soup in her paws, Florence gently knocked on Max’s door. 
“Hello? Young Master Barone?” She called out, cautiously nudging the door open. Inside on his bed, Max sat clasping his shoulder and slowly rocking within the dark room. His shirt tossed carelessly across the room, the young half naked cub seemed incredibly distraught. “Sir, your father asked me to bring this up.”
“I don’t care.” He whispered, never giving her so much as a glance.
“Ok well, I’ll just place it here.” She said, setting it down on his desk. Excusing herself she stepped out of the room and slowly closed the door behind her. Max got up off the bed and walked over to the desk, opening the top drawer. Inside he found the photo he and Jake had taken together. The two of them playing in the pool, the beach ball just about to hit Jake in the face. Sniffling, Max picked up his phone and started going through his pictures. He had only taken a few of him and Jake together but, it was enough to send the tears streaking down his face. He couldn’t understand it. What had happened to his new found best friend, why his father decided to order his death. Max clenched the phone tight in his paw before swatting the bowl of soup off the desk. The contents splattering on the wall while the bowl shattered and fell to pieces on the ground. 
“I hate him.” Max whimpered, gripping himself tightly. “I hate him, I can’t forgive this.” Max let the tears flow as he staggered back to his bed, missing it and hitting the floor he leaned on the side as he cried on the floor. He could eventually hear the footsteps down the hall, the brief pause as a gentle knock came again. Pushing the door slowly open, Raphael peeked inside to check on his son. 
“Max? I heard something break, is everything ok?” He asked quietly. 
“Shut up.” Max countered quickly, refusing to meet his father eye to eye. Barone huffed and invited himself in, pressing the door closed he took a seat next to his son. 
“I don’t blame you for being angry with me-“
“You start yelling at me about respect right now I’m gonna punch your face in!” Max yelled from between his legs, his face still buried in his paws. 
“I’m not going to lecture you on respecting your elders but don’t threaten me.” Barone quietly remarked. “Max, I’m sorry about Jake. I know the two of you were close but, I was lead to believe he had leaked. You know how I have to handle those.” 
“But he didn’t!” Max cried out, finally revealing his face. “You didn’t even try to find out if had or not, you just killed him! You killed my best friend!” 
“Best friend?” Barone breathed. Max reburied himself in his paws and hid his face from his father. “Oh son, I’m so very sorry. I thought your best friend was that lioness from school. Don’t you have lots of friends there?” 
“No, I hate it there!” He stammered. “Everyone’s always afraid of me and like, Jake and Mia were the only ones who ever treated me like I was normal. Now he’s dead and it’s all your fault.” 
“Oh Max, come here son.” Raphael tried to pull his son in but Max was fighting him off. Eventually he got Max enough into a hug that he was able to rest his cheek on his head. “You have every right to be mad at me. Although Carvelle was the one who deceived me, at the end of the day I am the one accountable for what goes on here. Believe me, the last thing I would ever do in this world is hurt you purposefully.” 
“I hate her too.” Max stammered.
“I’m sure you do feel that way.” Raphael agreed, giving his son a good squeeze. “Needless to say I’m furious with her; she will be punished for this deception, don’t you worry. Just know that when it comes to matters that effect you in the future, I will take a great deal more care to investigate things like this more thoroughly.” 
“I don’t care. I don’t care anymore. I’ll never forgive you for this, ever.”
“Shh. You need time, I understand.” Raphael assured him, kissing his son’s head. “There’s little I can say to comfort you, I know. Psych and Nick are furious with me as well, I don’t doubt their trust in me is shaken. I’ll have to work hard to earn both yours and theirs back.” Raphael insisted, giving Max a little shake. “I promise that son, I won’t stop working until I earn your trust back.” 
“You can’t.” Max stammered. 
“Max, look at me.” Raphael said, clasping his son’s cheeks and pulling him to meet him face to face. “There’s nothing I can do to bring Jake back. All I can do, is work my damndest to make sure, nothing like this ever happens to you again.” Raphael promised. “In the mean time, since there’s little comfort I can offer you. Perhaps you should go visit with Nick and Psych. Nick as it turns out loved that boy as a son, his heart is truly broken right now as well. Perhaps the two of you can find some common ground together.” 
“Fine.” 
“Ok. While you’re doing that.” Raphael relinquished his son and turned his attention to the mess of soup on the floor. “I think we better get that cleaned up.” 
“You, clean it up.” Max somewhat ordered. 
“Yes sir.” Raphael smiled, kissing his son’s head. Picking him up, he opened his dresser drawer and handed him a clean shirt. “Here. I’ll handle this. Take your time.” 

Max drudged his way down to Psych’s door and gave it a few quick knocks. Within a few moments, Psych opened the door and offered up a half-hearted smile. 
“You alright?” 
“Can I come in?” Max requested. 
“Maybe now’s not the best time.” Psych answered softly. 
“I just. I don’t know what to do. I’m so tired.” Max started stammering, wiping at his nose. Psych shot a quick glance to the ground. 
“Well, you two were friends, right?” 
“Yeah.”
“Well. Maybe we can find a few things of his. Maybe something Nick can part with for you to keep huh?” Psych suggested, opening the door a bit wider and letting Max in. “Besides, I think it’s safe to say the game night is over.” 

Raphael knocked on Max’s door late in the morning the following day. After receiving no answer, he gently pushed it open to see that he hadn’t slept in his bed. With a sigh he aimed downstairs and down the hall toward Psych’s room and gave a quick knock. Aiden answered the door, welcoming the tiger with a scowl. 
“What is it, sir?” 
“I’d like to speak with Psych and Nick please. Could you do me a favor as well?” Raphael quietly but politely asked. Aiden gave his reply in the form of a quick nod. “Go next door and retrieve Patrick, Finnick and Bryan. I’d like to speak with all of you.” 
“Yes sir.” Aiden complied, heading over to their room while Raphael stepped inside. He noticed right away Max wrapped up in blankets on the couch with the remote in his paws, changing the channels trying to find something to watch. Drawing a deep breath, he stuffed his paws in his pockets. 
“Get any sleep?” Max just shrugged, not even willing to meet his father eye to eye. Kneeling before Max, he gave his head a soft pat. “My poor cub.” 
“Don’t.” He lightly protested. 
“I know.” Raphael tipped his head with a smirk. “You’ve got every right to be angry with me.” 
“What do you want?” Psych boldly spoke from the entrance to his room. Nick was right behind him, finally in clean cloths. 
“Psych, Nick.” Raphael nodded to each of them. Turning around to the sound of the door opening, the rest of the crew stepped inside. Raphael gestured for them all to come in. “Please, everyone come in.” He insisted, as they gathered around the couch. Raphael took the remote from his son and turned off the T.V for a moment. 
“So what’s this all about?” Bryan thought aloud.
“Before I start, I trust you and Aiden can get onto the security cameras in my office, yes?” Barone proposed to Psych. 
“Yeah.” 
“Good. I’ll keep this short, but honest. Yesterday I was informed by Vanessa of a potential leak in our organization. I made it very clear right from the start how I handle those.” 
“But you didn’t-“ Max tried to cut in, but Psych hushed him. 
“Thank you. This new venture we are about to undertake has left me somewhat on edge. Between the Makai’s, the shipment manifest leak before and all the issues surrounding our supply lines in Zootopia. I was primed to jump to conclusions. I believe yesterday, I did exactly that. I allowed Vanessa to play me for a fool, and what a fool I truly was. Nicholas, Parker, Max, all of you. I owe you an apology beyond apologies. I should have come to you first, I should have trusted in my generals as a whole, not just the one. I am deeply sorry for allowing her to kill Jake and I hope that in time, you will come to forgive me.” Raphael kneeled down, lowering his head. 
“It’s a good first step.” Psych acknowledged. “I accept, but. You’ll understand if Nick needs more time.” 
“Nicholas.” Raphael rose up. “My deepest apologies to you. I knew the two of you were bonding, but had no idea you had taken him as a son. The way Psych had taken in Aiden.” Raphael took a moment to rise up to his feet and dust himself off. “But words are one thing. Actions, are another. It’s high time I take the right ones. Psych, go ahead and jump on the cameras for my office. I will be holding a meeting soon. Aiden, I’d like you to be there as well. Come join us, the moment you have the cameras ready. As for the rest of you, I’d like you to watch from the computer. I don’t want to rouse Vanessa’s suspicions.” 
“Very well.” Psych complied heading off to the bedroom. The rest of them followed inside while Barone headed out the door and back toward his study. 

Shea, Scout, Niko, Psych and Aiden were inside Barone’s study waiting for Vanessa to arrive. The door opened up and a groggy leopard seemingly stumbled in with Tasha and Sasha at her side. 
“Good, you’ve arrived.” Barone greeted. “You alright?” 
“Couldn’t sleep.” Vanessa clasped her head. “Took some stuff to try to sleep but, doesn’t work when there’s a bullet lodged in your bicep.” 
“Tasha, Sasha, if you could excuse us.” Barone requested politely, rising from his desk. 
“Of course sir.” The twins bowed, leaving the room. Barone rushed over to Vanessa and clasped her good arm and pulled her in close. 
“Easy now, easy easy.” He hushed, guiding her to the desk. 
“Got the whole crew huh?” She noted. 
“Indeed. We need to discuss some important business, I don’t want you to feel left out.” Barone assured her. 
“Thank you.” She whispered. Barone gave her a quick kiss on the cheek and brought her to the front of the desk, draping a paw over her and keeping her close. Barone took a deep breath to address the room. 
“We need to discuss what happened yesterday. Psych? What you did, barging in here, screaming and cursing at me in front my generals and my son. Shooting Carvelle, not once but twice and carrying on the way you did, was completely and totally out of line.” Barone bellowed. Vanessa found herself sneaking in a quick little grin at the old fox. “However, it was nothing compared to someone, manipulating evidence in an effort to deceive me, and betray one of my oldest and dearest friends, along with my son.” Barone growled, clenching Vanessa tighter to him. She started squirming in pain, his paw was clasped over the bullet lodged in her arm. 
“Raphy.” She whimpered. 
“I love Vanessa. One of my last connections to my dear departed wife, Diana.” Barone growled, switching his grip to her neck, he began to hoist her up as she squirmed to get free. “But I will not be played for a fool!!” Barone roared, throwing her across the room to Scout’s feet.
“Raphael, please!” 
“Shut your mouth!” Barone scolded, rushing over, he kicked her into a book case narrowly missing Scout in the process. “Did you think I wouldn’t find out about your little plan!? Do you believe I am one of your little fuck toys!?” Barone carried on, picking her up he tossed her across the room, demolishing one of the chairs in front of his desk. “I am Raphael Barone! Son of Allesandro Montaro Barone! And I!” He shouted, hoisting her up over his head. “Am no cretinous leopard’s, pawn!” Slamming her down on the ground. Vanessa coughed and moaned in agony. Panting from his exertion, he waved his finger. “You, crossed a line last night.” 
“Raphael-“ She tried to speak. 
“Silence! As of this moment, Sasha and Tasha will report to Aiden. He will oversee them from now on. Since you place so little value on your position as one of my trusted advisors, I will gift that place to him. As for you.” Barone wiped his nose. “The only reason I don’t fill the rest of your wretched body with lead is because of your loyal service up to this point. Today, you will start right back at the bottom.” He stated, ripping the clothes off her back and tearing her pants off. “Report to Florence. Once you’ve cleaned every ounce of filth from this mansion, you might earn the privilege of some food and water. Perhaps if I’m feeling generous a few rags to clothe yourself. Now get the hell out of my office!” He bellowed. 
“Sir. Please.” She cried, stumbling around on the ground. “I’m sorry!” 
“Aww, don’t feel bad honey.” Aiden smirked, strolling over to her side. “Here, I’ll even do ya a favor by taking out the trash for you.” Hoisting her up by her scruff he tossed her out of the office and dusted off his paws as Eric and Tommy closed the door. Raphael was sat on the front of his desk, his eyes closed and head hanging low. Niko came over and placed a paw on his shoulder. 
“That was hard, yes?” 
“Yes.” Barone confessed. 
“Ya doin the right thing lad.” Shea spoke up. “Aiden’s a fine cat, he’ll ring tha girls in good.” 
“Congratulations Aiden.” Psych smiled to his son. “Well deserved, even if it wasn’t earned the hard way.” 
“Thanks. Raphael?” 
“Yes Aiden?” 
“Once this mission is over, I’d like my girlfriend to move in with me. She’s pregnant and I miss her deeply.” Aiden requested. 
“Granted.” Barone complied. Peering up to the camera, Barone gave a quick nod. “I hope you all approve of what you’ve seen in there.” 
“Sure as shoot did.” Nick nodded to the group of mammals huddled in the room. 
“She can start by cleaning up that fucking mess she made in our room.” Patrick threw in. 
“Yeah, that’s Shea’s poker set. I don’t think he wants any blood on the chips.” Bryan chuckled. 
“Send Max down to meet me in the kitchen. I’d like to make some lunch for him.” Barone spoke to the cameras. “As for the rest of you. I suggest you keep yourselves in good shape and well rested. The time has come, we’re ready to truly assert our authority here in the city.” 

It was the evening before the shipment was meant to arrive. Carvelle was in her room changing the bandages on her arm. Barone had allowed her to wear a few of her old clothes, a worn out crop top along with a pair of denim shorts that had seen some serious wear and even old blood stains. Tasha and Sasha were set inside on the couch on either side of their former teacher. Tasha took the bandage and helped Vanessa fasten it in. 
“Should hold.” 
“Thanks.” Carvelle nodded, rotating her shoulder it gave an audible crack as she cringed in pain. “Ugh, hate getting shot.” 
“You’ll get better in no time.” Sasha encouraged her, patting her thigh. 
“Yeah, you’ll bounce back. You always do.” Tasha giggled. 
“Well.” Vanessa sneered. “I’m not so sure this time.” A gentle knock came at the door. Raphael waited a moment before pushing it open, locking a firm gaze on Vanessa. 
“Girls, if you could excuse us.” 
“But-“ Tasha tried to interject, however Vanessa pat her shoulder and assured her she should go. 
“I’ll be fine.” 
“Ok.” Tasha submitted and alongside her sister snuck out behind Barone, closing the door. 
“What is it now? The kitchen need cleaning?” Vanessa half-heartedly asked. 
“I wanted to talk with you.” Barone replied, clasping his paws behind his back.
“With all due respect, I’m not much for talking today. Eric decided to have a little “Fun” with me while I was cleaning his bathroom. Fucking wolves.” Vanessa spat. 
“That’s why he asked for an early break.” Barone thought aloud. “But, I wanted to know if you’ve had any change of heart.” 
“About?” 
“The foxes.” Barone noted. Vanessa scowled and looked away. “I see. Well, you were never one for remorse now were you?” 
“I don’t trust them!” Vanessa exclaimed.
“You’ve always spat with Psych. Even before he came back, how many times did you two go at each other’s throats?” 
“Because he’s an asshole.” 
“Yes he is.” Barone smiled, sitting down beside her. “While I agree, I’m still unsure about his return and his son. I still have my concerns you know?” He spoke softly. 
“Yeah?” Vanessa raised her brow. 
“Well.” Barone leaned back on the couch. “Seems a little too convenient. Psych shows up just in time to help us get the last of this together? Certainly raised my brow.” 
“Exactly which is why-“
“It doesn’t excuse setting him up. Or his little pet project.” Barone cut in. “Look I’m no stranger to blood on my paws. I don’t really care that it hurt Nick’s feelings to lose Jake. But it hurt Max. It wounded him badly. He and Jake were best friends, Vanessa. Did you know that?” 
“Mmm.” Vanessa turned away, tipping her head she couldn’t argue with that. She knew Max and Jake were close. 
“Look, if you had something on Psych or Nick and it was concrete, you know you wouldn’t be in this situation. But the way you handled things here was pure incompetence. Why would you try to deceive me?” 
“I didn’t want-“ Vanessa tried to say, but could see the sincerity in Barone’s eyes. “I’m sorry. I love you, you know that.” 
“I love you too.” 
“I just don’t want anything to happen to you.” Vanessa insisted, taking his paw. Barone sighed and pulled her in close to him. 
“Seeing Max like this breaks my heart Vanessa. That’s something you did to him, you did to me as well.” 
“I know.” She breathed, pressing her head against his chest. “I’m sorry.” 
“How about, you keep your focus on watching my back. Once the weapon is here, if there’s any tampering or, you notice Nick or Psych taking unusual notes on it. Report it to me right away. Give me something certain to work with if you suspect something.” Barone insisted, squeezing her paw. 
“Do you think of him, as your big brother?” Vanessa looked up to him. 
“Awfully bite sized to be my big brother.” Barone chuckled, resting her head back on his chest. “Before he left, before father died, yes. I suppose I did. Something about Psych made everything seem, stable. Like he knew how to handle things when I couldn’t. After Diana passed, he was so quick to jump in and help with everything, taking care of Max, getting father to the right doctors, helping around the house. But then he started retreating to that bunker more and more. Instead of spending the night there to work or getting things rerouted to the house, he started living there. Even grooming Aiden as his student in that pit hole of a bunker. I thought when he returned and moved back in, I’d recapture that feeling but. No, it hasn’t come back. Maybe that’s because he hasn’t been back for long, or maybe because he left in the first place. I’m not sure.” 
“I love our little talks.” Vanessa cooed. 
“Mmm.” Barone hummed, kissing her head. “Well, I should get some rest. I have an early morning.” 
“Am I coming along?” Vanessa seemingly pleaded. 
“No.” Barone sighed. “It would look bad if I brought you along. However, if the PPD knows about this shipment, they may use it as a chance to strike the house. While I trust Nikolai, Shea and Psych to watch my back. If we get hit here. It’ll only be a skeleton crew besides you.” 
“So I’ll have to be the backbone of that crew.” 
“Exactly. However, it could simply be my paranoia acting up.” He chuckled, rising off the couch. “Get some rest.” 
“Please tell me I can wear real clothes again.“
“Yes. Of course. Keep yourself armed tomorrow too.” Barone replied, tucking his paws in his pockets. “No more late nights on the internet either. I don’t need any more jam cam videos from you.” He quipped. 
“Har-har. I’ll just let Max use it to look at naked lionesses.” Vanessa joked right back. Barone laughed as he approached the door. 
“You might be very right there.” He smiled, opening it. “Good night, Vanessa.” 
“Night baby.” 

Before the sun could rise, Psych was already hard at work dismantling the computer in his room. Aiden couldn’t help but flinch as Psych removed the SSD containing all the data they needed. 
“You sure we can’t keep that video card? I mean, a RZX-“ 
“Will you stop.” Psych moaned. “For pity’s sake. Sometimes I wonder if I’m the more mature one.” 
“It’s a tie, you both lose.” Nick quipped from the bed, slamming his clip into the gun. Both Aiden and Psych gave him a flat stare for the jab and carried on. He stashed the drive in his bag and threw it over his back. 
“It’s time. Let’s get the boys together.” Psych announced. 
“Right.” Nick agreed. 

Rather than gathering in their usual place, everyone was clustered together in the living room. It was crowded, several mammals that hadn’t visited the house before were now gathered within. A wide array of wolves, cougars, a pair of stags, a single lioness and a ram were all gathered around Niko. The cheetah twins, Tasha and Sasha were awaiting Aiden, along with two other coyotes alongside Shea. Max was camped on his perch on the stairs, seemingly disinterested in the gathering in the room, and doing his best to avoid eye contact with either his father or Vanessa. Psych noticed this right away and placed a paw on his shoulder. 
“Max?” 
“What?” He huffed. 
“I know it’s hard right now but, you should give your father a good hug and kiss. He loves you, you know?” 
“I know.” Max sighed. 
“Losing Jake was hard. I’ve lost many things in my life I dearly cared for. But I understand how important family is.” Psych assured him, fixing his gaze on Barone who was busy talking with Jason. “You have to do what’s right.” 
“Fine.” Max submitted, rising up from the stairs, he stepped down and approached his father. He had abandoned his usual suit and tie combo for a bullet proof vest and heavy over coat. “Dad?” 
“Just a sec.” Barone paused his conversation with Scout for a moment. “Yes son, what is it?” Max reached up for a hug, to which Raphael was happy to oblige. “Hmmm, I’m proud of you son. You’re a good mammal.” 
“Love you dad.” 
“Love you too Maxy.” He replied with a kiss to his forehead. “My little champion.” A few more mammals arrived, being lead by Tommy and Eric. The group was comprised of almost entirely wolves, save for four big grizzlies. “Ah, it is time. Excellent. Everyone, gather around. I need your attention please!” Raphael announced as Max snuck upstairs to his room. The room gradually fell quiet as Barone cleared his throat. “The job today is fairly straight forward. We head to Rapidton Shipping to retrieve the explosives. Reginald Steer-helm will also meet us there to deliver the bio-weapon known as bloodlust. He claims that before Yorik’s demise, she was able to send him the details of her research. We need security on all sides. One team will escort the doctor, another will help secure the docks. Aiden, Psych. Your teams will cover the docks with me. Niko, Shea, you two will take Nick and Bryan, keep the doctor covered. We aren’t expecting trouble with the PPD however, let’s not let our guard down. On this day, we ascend to our rightful place as rulers of this city. We have fought against the police for too long, these streets belong to us. To our family. Your hard work, your dedication to our cause has enabled this to happen. Now let’s see it through to a new beginning.” 
“Yeah!!” The room erupted in cheers. 
“Move out!” Barone ordered. In a frantic rush, the mass of mammals rushed out the door while others headed for the garage. Psych was to travel with Barone in the limo while Aiden was to drive his car with Patrick, Finnick and Scout along for the ride. Shea picked up Bryan and Nick in his hatchback while the twins crammed into Niko’s van along with a delegation of several wolves. Like a procession, the vast array of vehicles left the house, while Vanessa watched from the window. 

Inside Aiden’s car, Patrick was giving the headsets they were given a test run. 
“November, India, Charlie, Kilo, this is big white checking in, over.” 
“Hilarious.” Nick commented into his own. 
“These aren’t toys, gentlemammals.” Barone cut in. 
“Roger that- Alpha team, check channels for clarity.” Scout stated. Each one of them stated check through their headsets before Scout, Finnick, Patrick, Aiden, Nick, Psych and Bryan joined the hidden channel. 
“Be ready to move when the signals are given guys, don’t forget the order.” Aiden spoke softly.

Pulling up to Rapidton Shipping, the array of cars flew through the gate and started to arrange themselves in a crescent shape around the docks. Nick took note of the warehouses on either side. Tall structures with multiple levels and windows pushed out at the top. On the western side of one stood a fairly tall abandoned building. Sheets of plastic, waving like curtains in the early morning wind dangled from the windows that had been torn out. The base an array of colums that a few of Barones cars were delving into. Nick could see the ship on the horizon, its visage cast a massive shadow across the water in the early morning hours. Shea was the first to speak up over the radio. 
“Team 2. Nick, get yer fuzzy arse in gear. We got a meetin with a cracked stag.”
“Got it. Let’s move.” Nick agreed. Catching up with Bryan, Shea, Niko and the slough of wolves, they rushed toward the warehouse Reginald usually hung his hooves in. Throwing open the garage, he was ready with a flatbed of boxes wrapped in twine. 
“Come come boys, come on now. Don’t go dropping any though.” Two of the wolves started pushing the flatbed while Niko and Shea took the head, creating a circle formation they began to move it toward the docks. Psych remained at Barone’s side, but took a glance up to the roof of the building where Aiden and the twins were watching over the area. The top level seemed barren, save for a few scattered pieces of wood and debris from the weeks storms. Tasha surveyed the area they came through while Sasha had eyes on the boat. Aiden kept his watch over Psych’s team and noticed the flatbed of cargo coming up. 
“There it is.” Aiden noted. 
“Hmm?” Sasha peered over. 
“Bloodlust.” 
“Not getting cold feet are you?” Sasha quipped. 
“As your new boss, I’d strongly recommend not disrespecting me. Keep watch on the boat Sasha.” Aiden all but growled. 
“Yes sir.” She sighed. Psych took out his phone and scrolled through his contacts. Barone peered down wondering what he was doing. Psych was quick to notice and gave a calm little smile. 
“Don’t worry. I’ve been talking with the captain of the ship. Just going to check in on him, make sure everything is on the up and up.” Psych assured him. 
“Ah.” Barone nodded, returning his gaze to the sea. Little did he know, Psych was contacting Jack. 
“Ready?” Jack whispered. 
“Just making sure everything is good on board sir.”
“We’re good on our end. In the cargo hold. Have to stay quiet.” 
“Of course. I trust you received our payment?” Psych questioned. Jack remained silent but he carried on with the conversation anyway. “Excellent. We’re ready for you here. All is clear on our end, make for the port 14.” 
“Confirmed.” Jack whispered, as Psych hung up the phone. 
“All good?” Barone peered down. 
“Yeah, we’re all set. Aiden, check in. Anything on the streets?” 
“Clear at the moment.” Aiden replied. Taking a good long breath, he turned to Tasha. “Tasha, come here a moment?” 
“What is it?” 
“Maybe my eyes aren’t as good. Do you see what I see on Steer-helm?” Aiden questioned. Tasha rushed over and even Sasha took interest and scurried to his side. Just as she placed her paw on his shoulder, he snatched up his tranq gun and darted Tasha in the neck. Swiftly he wrapped a paw across Sasha’s mouth and fired another into her side. It only took seconds for both of them to go down. Playing it safe, he strapped on his stun gloves. The ship was pulling in to the dock, as Barone turned around and nodded to the bulk of the group.
“Shea, Bryan, take a team and sure up the gate. Niko, Scout, when they bring the equipment down verify its condition. Patrick, Finnick, Nick, inside the building there you should find a truck with the key taped to the side. Get inside and pull up to the dock. Psych, you keep things coordinated.” 
“Got it sir.” Psych agreed. “Move it boys, you heard your assignments.” Psych ordered. 

Back at the house, Vanessa was parked on the couch, flipping through channels on the TV in her room. She briefly checked her phone and sighed, distraught with the fact she had been sidelined on one of the most important missions to date. Down the road however, a convoy of police cruisers and a single black car at the lead were headed down towards the mansion. In the lead car was Gabriel, and right on his tail was Mariah Kasi, John Ryder and Ben Clawhauser. Gabriel smashed through the gate and charged head long for the front door. Swerving the car and landing parallel to the building, the cruisers followed in behind and formed a blockade of the premises. 
“Go go go go!!” Gabriel called out, leaping out of the car with gun in hand. “Predaton S.W.A.T. Breech it!” 
“Ryder! Send your boys in!” Mariah joined in over the radio. Flash bangs were flung through the front windows of the house and exploded, disorienting the few wolves inside. Vanessa heard the commotion and growled in anger, jumping for the closet she snatched up her knives and chest holster for her guns. The S.W.A.T team formed up a blockade of four officers at the door and started a crossfire with the few wolves inside. Bullets peppered the room, flinging through the couches and blasting glass ornaments all around. Max rushed for his father’s room and dove for the night stand. Inside he found a single hand gun. Sliding in the ammo clip, he cocked the gun and switched off the safety. He rushed down the hall, just as Vanessa did, the two meeting at the end of the hallways for their respective wings. Max leapt out and started firing at the police. 
“GET OUT OF MY HOUSE!!!” Max bellowed at the top of his lungs. 
“Max get down!” Vanessa screamed. A flash bang went off and disoriented the young tiger. Staggering toward the main stair well he tried to fire blind at the offending officers. Gabriel was rushing up to the entrance and had just stepped inside when the S.W.A.T team opened fire again. Three bullets flew diagonally up Max’s body. He screamed in pain and began tumbling down the stairs. “NO!! MAX!!” 
“HOLD FIRE HOLD FIRE TARGET FRIENDLY!” Gabriel bellowed. Vanessa screamed in rage, leaping from the top of the stairs, she drew her knives and dove straight in for the S.W.A.T team. Snatching one by the head, she tore her knife across his neck and threw him at the other member, shooting him in the face, she flipped backward, over the head of the last in line and sliced his throat clean. Kneeling down she took aim and caught the final officer in the muzzle with a bullet. 
“Shit!” Gabriel breathed as Carvelle began swinging her blades at him. The first slice grazed his ears, the second just off to his side and he leapt the third. Vanessa swung to the side and fired at him but he leapt off the wall, tumbling on one of the dead members of the S.W.A.T team and snatched his shield. Carvelle kicked it away and Gabriel leapt for her face and nailed a solid kick. Vanessa spat up from the blow, but as he attempted a second leap, she swatted him out the door, rolling onto the entrance. She let loose with a piercing screech as she took aim to fire on him but the rest of the police force and S.W.A.T team opened fire. Carvelle was forced to duck in behind the frame. She could see Max on the ground, shivering and bleeding. Clenching her eyes tight, she fired blind out into the crowd of police. 
“Suck on this you fucking assholes!!!” 
“Vanessa!!” One of the last surviving wolves, bleeding from his head grabbed her and pulled her toward the stairs. “We need to get to the study, everyone’s retreated back there.” 
“No. No I won’t leave Max!!” 
“We gotta go, now!” The wolf bellowed, pulling her up the stairs. The PPD took it as a chance to move; Gabriel rushed in and kneeled down beside Max, placing a finger on his neck. 
“Med Evac! Friendly target down! Get the quad copter overhead!” Gabriel ordered. Ryder rushed in with an assault rifle and halted alongside Gabriel. 
“Shall we?” 
“Go.” He approved. “Finish them off, take Carvelle alive. Try not to fuck that up too.” Ryder growled and two lion officers came in to collect up Max. Gabriel escorted them out as the quad chopper flew toward the house. Passing by Kasi and Ben at their cruiser the young rabbit scowled. “You had one fucking job, don’t kill the kid! Get your cops in line, we wanted your A game for pity’s sake.” He scolded. Inside the study, only a few of Barones crew were alive. A pair of wolves, a single lioness a polar bear and a coyote. Almost all of them were being bandages up, save for the lioness and polar bear who were fortifying the door. 
“Vanessa, what do we do?” The coyote cried, clasping his side where he had been shot. 
“They’re going to breech this room. I know it.” Vanessa breathed, wiping her nose. “Son of a bitch. It was that fox. I know it. Psych set us up. Murdered Max. I wish I tore that fuckers head off right when I saw him!!” 
“Psych!?” one of the wolves perked up. 
“Vanessa, do you really think he would?” 
“Of course he would.” Vanessa sneered at the coyote. “My only regret is I won’t get to kill him myself.”
“No.” The big bear refuted. Pulling on one of the books, it opened up a passage behind one of the shelves. “I sent Florence down through here already. You must go.” 
“I can’t. Barone would never forgive me if-“
“I hate to say it but. If we’re gonna beat Psych, someone has to find him. You’re our best hope for that.” The wolf moaned. Bullets started pelting the door to the study. A police helicopter was now flying over head. “Hurry, they’ll be here any minute. Go!” 
“I won’t forget this. I swear I’ll make him suffer for this!” She promised, heading down the escape tunnel. The passage lead down a narrow hall and at the end was a latch. Opening it up she descended the rungs along the wall and down into the sewers below. Splashing the water as she landed, she rushed down the street and away from the scene. Carvelle couldn’t help but try to swallow the lump in her throat, and wipe at the tears in her eyes. All she could picture was Max lying dead on the floor. It was the first time in a long time she was ready to give up, let the tears flow and give in. But she had something else fueling her. A deep and seething hatred for Psych and Nick. It pushed her onward away from the scene. 

Back at the docks, the ship had just pulled in. Shea and Bryan were getting into position. Bryan glanced up to the top of the warehouse, the position he knew he had to take to get to his big surprise inside. Glancing over to Shea, he spoke up. “Yo, I’ma hit up there. Get a good view on things.” 
“Lad, that be Aiden’s job.” Shea insisted. 
“Call it a hunch. If I’m wrong on it, I’ll buy ya some East Grove later.” Bryan snickered. 
“Oh, be lookin ta get yer big boy pants on again eh? Hehe, alright go on.” Bryan gave him a warm smile and turned to the warehouse. He couldn’t help but feel guilty for what he was about to do. He really felt like he had bonded with Shea over the last couple months. Still, he wanted that clean record and money more than Shea’s approval. Ascending the ladder on the outside, he all but tumbled into the top of the warehouse. He could see Nick on the ground inside getting into the truck. Pulling the blanket off of a crate, he threw it open to reveal his RPG with six rounds ready to go. 
“Alright, let’s do this.”

The cargo ship was fairly average in size and had a massive back end from which the ramp descended. A jack rabbit, impala and kangaroo stepped off the boat, and behind them lay several skids with what seemed like missiles on them and crates filled with weapons. 
“Your order has arrived.” The kangaroo stated. Psych walked up to him and shook his paw.
“Nice to speak with you again. I’m Psych, we spoke over the phone.” 
“Right, Alan Vanadance. This must be.” Alan stated, extending his arm to Barone. 
“Raphael Barone. Pleasure.” 
“Excellent. Well, we’re all loaded up and good to go. Ya wanna test er out first?” He asked. 
“Allow me!” Reginald proclaimed. Cutting the flatbed loose, he opened up a crate and took out a long slender cylinder with a red fluid in the middle. “Oh yes! This is most exciting. To see our little creation come to fruition!” 
“Yeah, right.” Alan rolled his eyes. “Janis, get yer hide here.” The young jack rabbit leapt in and assisted Reginald in placing the container inside one of the missiles. She took from the crate a guided launcher for it and opened the flap on the side of the missile and began to put in a few codes. 
“Ok, the range is about 15’000 meters give or take 100. Also depends on things like elevation. The rocket is designed to carry, not disperse, so I hope you have that all figured out there stag.” 
“Oh but I have! Hohohoho. My dear sweet girl, how fond I was of Yorik. She does such excellent work.” He carried on, rubbing his hooves together. “My deer sweet little trash panda, this demonstration is for you! Let the firework show, begin!” Reginald proclaimed. 
“Firing!” Janis announced. The rocket took off in a deafening blast, soaring high into the air and far out into the bay. Just over the water it detonated, a massive cloud of red plumed up in a mushroom shape and doused the area around it in its ever growing cloud that seemed to span a good mile wide. Tendrils began to fall as well from the top of the cloud splashing down into the water. Psych watched, keeping his face straight but his heart was sinking. The explosion and radius of the weapon was far greater than he expected. 
“Beautiful.” Barone complimented. “It exceeds all expectations.” 
“Yes my good sir, yes!” Reginald giggled away, placing a few small spheres in Barone’s paws. “That there is a sample of the short range rounds I’ve developed. Bloodlust does exactly as you’ve instructed. A healthy balance between the savage prowess of a nighthowler, but all the pain suppression through dopamine and epinephrine inhibitors a body can handle. The end result? A raging, bi-pedal storm of insanity. Ohhhohohoho, not a soul would be spared the carnage.” 
“With this, we can shut down the PPD.” Psych smiled up to Barone. “I’m impressed Raphael.” 
“Enjoying this, Psych?” Barone threw up his brow with a smile. 
“Magnificent.” He complimented again. 
“Haha.” Barone praised, slapping his paws together. 
“That’s the codeword.” Aiden stated. “Bryan, Savage, Nick, go.” 
Niko and Scout were already on board, opening up a few of the crates when he noticed something moving in behind one of the stacks. With his considerably strength, he started shoving it off to the side to reveal Serena Skye, dressed in body armor and goggles. 
“Wha! No- AGH!!” Niko bellowed, Scout had shoved a taser into his back and drew out a tranq gun. Firing three darts into his back, he kept the big bear down on the ground. 
“Go.” Jason whispered. 
“This is Savage, send quadcopter two down to the docks.” Jack ordered, rising up from behind another crate. Nick was already in the truck with Patrick at the wheel. Two of the lions approached, one putting his paw on the door. 
“You need a paw getting the stuff loaded bite size?” 
“Take a nap.” Nick quipped as he darted the one his side. Patrick nailed the other on his and ogled the weapon for a moment. 
“I’m getting why you like these little suckers. I wonder how they work on vix-“
“Please don’t say anything I’ll have to arrest you for later.” Nick insisted, changing over to his real firearm along with Finnick. 
“Like I need these anyway. Name one vixen who could turn down this fucking stud.” He grinned, putting the truck in gear. A screech came from inside the warehouse as Nick, Patrick and Finnick came blowing out the door, they shattered the group surrounding Barone and began firing at Barones security. Psych withdrew his stun gloves and fired out the blades. 
“What the!?” Barone exclaimed. 
“Son of a bitch, damn it Nicky!!” Psych shouted. Patrick aimed the truck straight for Barone, but Psych pushed him down and out of the way. “Raphy? You ok?” 
“What is going on!?” 
“I don’t know. Nick, what the fuck are you doing!?” Psych shouted over the radio. Many of Barones crew started firing on the truck, but stepping out of the ship, they were attacked by four ZIA agents, lead by Jack Savage. Many of Barones mammals were mowed down, but once again Psych yanked on Barone’s paws and pulled him down. The jack-rabbit, Janis tried to rush for Savage, dodging the line of fire and forcing him into hand to hand combat. She threw three haymakers that found nothing but air, Jack was making it all look to easy to dodge her. She swung again, and this time he caught her and swept out her legs, dropping her on her back. She broke free of his grasp and attempted to flip back up to her feet, but was met by Jack’s foot in her face. She tumbled down the ramp as two of the agents, the fox and lynx went straight for Steer-helm. Once she found her feet again she charged for Jack who caught her arm and tossed her over the edge and into the water. 
“Stay down!” he bellowed, pointing his gun at her.
Over by the entrance, Shea could hear the gunfire and folded his ears back. 
“Move it lads! The parties over at the dock!” He bellowed, but just as he could finish his sentence a rocket blast landed right in front of him blowing him several feet back. Bryan loaded up a second round, a few of the gate guards tried to open fire but the shots blew through the window and sailed wide. Without hesitation Bryan fired on them, killing a few instantly and sending others to the ground. A swift reload and he would take aim again, this time at the few trying to make it back to the dock. The rocket flew to the ground and hit the group head on. All on the ground either unconscious or dead. Shea grasped his head, trying to pick himself up but the ringing in his ears was overwhelming. Bryan slid down the ladder, the launcher on his back he stayed parked at the end of it and primed the last shot at Shea. 
“Don’t make me do it, Shea.” Bryan seemingly pleaded. 
“You. Ya rat bastard. Why?” Shea begged, getting on his knees. 
“I’m sorry. It’s nothing personal bud. I’ll sneak ya some of that ol East Grove.” 
“Nay.” Shea shook his head. “I’ll pour it over yer grave.” He tried to pull his gun but Bryan fired at the ground nearby. The explosion blew Shea back again, but Bryan knew the distance was far enough not to kill him. “Aww, fuck!” Shea cried. His clothing seemed singed around the edges. Bryan whipped out his tranq gun and fired three darts into Shea’s shoulder. “No.” He moaned, finally passing out. Bryan tossed the rocket launcher on the ground and sighed. Lumbering over to Shea, he sat down on the ground next to him. 
“I’m really sorry buddy. I think outta everyone I’ve meet this summer, you were the only one I gave a shit about.” 
Back at the docks, things were getting out of hand fast. Aiden was sniping off Barone’s crew from the top. Reginald had been tackled to the ground by ZIA agents and Nick and Finnick had finished their rampage, parking the bullet filled truck near the water. Psych picked himself up, just as Jack Savage and a large cat agent approached. The sound of a chopper rapidly approached as well, soaring overhead and hovering near the boat. 
“Raphael Barone. By the authority of the ZIA, you’re under arrest.” Jack proclaimed. 
“Think again.” Barone scowled, quickly drawing his gun. Psych cut him off, firing two of his new taser disks into Barone’s back. Screaming it sent him to the ground in pain as Psych circled around, stepping beside Jack. “No. No I should have known.” Barone shuddered as the current surged through his body. 
“I’m sorry little brother, I love you. But a big brother has to do what he has to do.” Psych replied in a rather somber manner. Withdrawing his own tranquilizer gun, he fired on Barone, hitting him twice in the shoulder. As he collapsed and fell unconscious, the sound of the gunfire began to subside. Jason pulled Niko’s slumbering body from the ship and Aiden rejoined Nick, Finnick and Patrick, strolling up to Jack. 
“The Intel?” Jack questioned right away, pulling his mask down. Psych took a good long breath before removing the SSD from his pocket. Nick came over and put a paw on his father’s shoulder. 
“All yours.” Psych handed it off to Jack. “What’s going to happen to him?” 
“We’ll take him in for questioning. Keep him incarcerated until a formal trial can be set up. Then it’s either execution, or life in maximum security prison.” Jack explained. 
“Give him life. He can’t suffer for his mistakes as a dead mammal.” Psych seemingly pleaded. 
“We’ll consider it.” Jack smiled. “Maybe it’s not what you want to hear right now but, you did good Psych. Thank you.” 
“No.” He shook his head, wiping a tear from his cheek. Nick leaned in a little closer and wrapped his father close to him. “It’s just Parker now. This.” He stammered. “This is where Psych’s tale ends. The last job.” Leaning down he gave Raphael’s head a quick stroke before kissing it. “Goodbye, little brother.”