Chapter 7 The next day Ben woke up at 5 am to begin his training. He had told everyone what happened yesterday and while Dale’s adoption was nearly finalized it would be a while since the leader of Dale’s home country would have to sign the approval himself. Sonia had assured Dale that since the leader knew about his father and is friends with her that everything would be finalized. He was more surprised this morning when Dale showed up for training. Chondro kate and Silver were still in the medical wing but Silver had to be chained to his bed. “Hey Rintin hey Dale” “morning” “hey Ben” “what you doing at our training session.” “I am going to be training with you obviously” “Do you even know what we are training for?” “I don’t know all the details but I do think I can help” “really?” “let me show you” Dale turned and faced the sea and then concentrated. He then clapped his hands together like he was praying. “Purity Light!” Dale said as he built up energy around his paws then release it out into the ocean. The energy was like a blue light and was so powerful it split the ocean beneath it. As the beam of light subsided it left Ben and Rintin in astonishment. “Dale? Since when can you do that?” “since a while ago. My dad taught me how I think on some kind of humanitarian mission a guy named Victor gave him the ability to use his powers?” “Victor why does that name strike me as… WAIT VICTOR!” Ben had finally realized the victor was his grandfather “Ben who is Victor?” Dale asked “My grandfather and our worst nightmare” “from what my dad said Victor helped him so much that at my dad’s wedding he was his best man. Even was there for my birth!” “Oh great. Grandpa set us up again.” “he did?” “he used Grey too. He knew how grey would try to find their 7th member and he knew that your dad would be really adamant when he saw grey’s squad. No wonder grandpa told us together.” “Ben. Your grandpa seems to very involved with everyone you meet. Almost makes me think he planned who he would drug and when.” RIntin interjected “But he had no way of knowing when they would get kids!” “Kate might be able to tell us something” “she didn’t wake up yesterday so I guess we have to wait until she wakes up” “I worked with her for a little while now she is great at investigating. She probably knows more about this stuff than all of us.” “let’s get started then! Rintin me and dale are going to spar you should wait for Ryker” “sounds good” Ryker arrived a few minutes later to begin his morning training. After a few hours they were called in for breakfast. At the table were the grandparents who would be leaving at midday and Chondro who was still a little worn up from the battle a few days ago. Nico and Bruce were busy dealing with an emergency in one of Bruce’s companies. The boys sat down to eat their breakfast and enjoy a peaceful time. The last week or so had been so hectic and it was starting to take a toll but the future was going to prove more hectic. Hollywood tower was where the boys of squad D slept that night. Grey had planned for all of them to stay with him for a week. He awoke and looked at the boys sleeping on either side of his bed and smiled. He made his way to the living room not bothering to cover his naked body. He turned on the TV and relaxed in the couch for a while before he heard a knock on the door. Grey went over and opened it. It was not like anyone in the city would care to see him like this but he would have never opened it if he knew who was on the other side. “I told the bakery to just leave the… OH SHIT!” “good to see you too little brother” Grey was shaking like a leaf in front him stood his older brother Tony a wolf who looked exactly like him except his fur was mauve instead of Grey. “Are you going to let me in?” Grey moved aside and let his older brother in. the wolf appeared to be around 17 or 18 in age and wore the same clothes his grandfather did. “I guess you weren’t expecting guests since you didn’t even bother to wear anything.” Grey ran for his bedroom and emerged with a few pieces of clothing putting them on quickly “What brings you here Tony?” “can’t I just visit my little brother?” “I know you too well to believe that. You never go anywhere unless it is under dad’s or grandpa’s orders” “guess you got smarter than the last time I saw you” “that was nearly a year ago tony and I think that was way too short of a time” “hmph! You are right. I came here on business. The ventonole have been preparing to launch a war on the cantonole and one of the places they plan to attack is Nev City” “the ventonole? Here? Why would they even?” “the found information about 2 squads training here in NEv city and deicide to eliminate them before they became a nuisance.” “they are coming after my squad?” “and our cousin’s. grandpa doesn’t like the idea of high level fighters attacking you guys so he sent me out here to find out who the ventonole sent to eliminate you and the others.” “my squad could handle them. We don’t need you to babysit us” “I thought the exact thing when they told me. I said to them if your squad can’t deal with them then why should you even be allowed to enter the contest. Then they told me that the Ventonole were sending one of the Jueve here” “the jueve? Why! That seems a little bit over the top I mean the jueve are their equivalent of our generals.” “and they are all Knight level or higher. You and your team are far from ready to face them. Heck I don’t think I can face them. They only sent me here to track them and yesterday I finally found out their plans” “what are we going to do then” “set up defence. Until Raja arrives.” “raja? Is coming here?” “once he finishes up his current assignment.” “I can’t believe one of the 6 generals is about to come here” “Not only him. Dad and grandpa will be here in 2 days themselves” “why?” “this is the ventonole we are dealing with! And one of the Jueve. We don’t want to take any chances. Too many of our people have been killed by them over the years and to come after some squads in training means they really don’t want you guys to get stronger” “but still Dad, grandpa and Raja. That seems like excess force.” “The Ventonole recently formed an alliance with the Rontonole. The Rontonole is sending a few of their Regal fighters here to help. It is a show of force against us” “This is going to get bloody” “I am going to assess your squad to see if they are fit to fight” “Bad timing I gave them to week off” “I don’t think that should be a problem seeing as how your squad is mostly here” Grey blushed “you didn’t think they would go unnoticed did you?” “I was hoping” “so naïve. Sleeping with your squad has some perks but has some downsides too. You will learn that the hard way” “I already learnt it.” Tony got up and made his way to the door. And then motioned for grey to follow “where are we going?” “there is another squad I have to assess the strength of” “you aren’t going to-?” “I am, Dad ordered me to see if any of you have reached Knight level but judging from your squad I would say all of you are still solider level. Now I need to see if anyone on Squad C has reached knight level but I doubt even one of them has passed rookie level” “I… Do I have to come?” “you are coming with me I need someone to tell me what they look like” “… just let me leave a note for my guys” “do it fast we need to do this quickly and quietly” “okay okay” Grey wrote down something on a note and then left with Tony. “really think that the Ventonole will got after Ben’s squad. Ben is not even part of the Cantonole.” “Grey you are still so naïve. They don’t care if Ben is part of the Cantonole or not. All they know is he a possible heir and that his squad are possible threats to them.” “still not good. And so much has happened last 2 days.” “I heard of all the things that went down in this past week. I would have never guessed that Ben’s squad would even think about joining the contest.” “I don’t know why he agreed to participate or what grandpa promised him if he won” “grandpa promised him that they would be free from any Cantonole interactions if they won” “I guess they didn’t know how powerful everyone else is” “they are about to find out for sure” At 12:30 the Minefell residence saw the beginning of an event that would change their mindset for a while. The grandparents and Greg had just left for the airport. They said their goodbyes with a heartfelt one to Chondro a ‘see you soon’ one to Ben and Ryker and a ‘if I ever see you again I might kill you’ to silver. “Glad they are gone” Silver said. “Seemed to Like Chondro best” ben added “can you blame them. I am just better than the rest of you” “Silver did he really just say that?” “he did. Shall we teach a lesson?” “let’s” “leave me alone you 2” Chondro ran through the house out to the backyard and down to the sandy beach being chased by Ben and Silver. Ryker Rintin and Dale came out to check on the noise. They just laughed when they saw Chondro pinned on the sand by Ben and Silver being tickled like crazy. “We got him ben!” “we sure did” “get them off me please.” “why this is fun to watch” Dale said while RIntin and Ryker could only laugh. This conintued until Kate emerged from the house still looking a bit dazed but much better than before. “What are you boys doing out here?” “nothing Kate, and are you feeling better?” “much better ben. Hey guys gather round I have some information to share with you” “It is about time!” Silver said The boys moved closer to Kate before someone appeared before them it was Tony “Hey who are you?” Ben asked the wolf appearing out of the ground “Judging by that fur color I would say you are ben. The leader of squad C.” “I am but who are you? And how do you know about me?” “I am Tony Cantonole. The leader of squad A” “wait leader of squad A, then you are?” “your cousin. Grey’s older brother” “I thought you were supposed to leave us alone to train!” “I was. But things have changed I am here to eliminate you. I just wiped out grey’s squad so now it is time to work on yours. And don’t think the red violet will be able to save you she will be too busy trying to save her own life.” Tony readied himself for battle. His face oozed with confidence and on the opposite side they kids were filled with nervousness. This wolf claimed to have just eliminated Grey’s entire squad how would they fight him? The 7 kids just stood there until ben started giving orders “Kate, Ryker get behind him. Silver Dale give us some ranged support. Chondro me and Dale will go in” “roger” all said in return Tony just smiled this would be interesting Ben had positioned his squad in such a way that Tony would have to play it safe. Kate and Ryker managed to run around and position themselves behind Tony. Silver and Dale split up and prepared themselves to launch their attacks. Ben moved Rintin to his right and chondro to his left. “Rintin let’s go. Chondro keep an eye on him” “roger” Ben drew his sword and so did Rintin. They ran towards Tony. Tony didn’t move an inch until he rose his up then moved it forward a bit. Rintin and Ben were blown back fast by something but they didn’t know what. It stunned everyone so much that it gave tony the opportunity to he needed to get close to Kate. “AAhh” Kate screamed as tony had quickly gotten to her and Grabbed her by the throat “Let her go!” Ryker said running towards The 2. He started creating ice in his paw “Sure if you can make me do it” Tony then put his paw out and pushed it forward. Ryker was blown back even harder than Ben and sent flying into a wall. “Silver! We have to do something” “attack together we might have a chance to hit him!” “Ok” Silver and Dale launched their attacks “Purity Canon” “Triple bullet” Dale blasted a canon of his purity light towards tony while Silver threw 3 of his knives cloaked in his silver light. “Not bad” tony said doing his paw motion again this time Silver’s and Dale’s attack were blocked by the invisible force “Silver what the heck is he using?” “I have no idea. Ben RIntin get up!” Ben and Rintin were getting up dusting the sand off of themselves. “We need a plan fast” Ben then had an idea. “rintin get the others to distract him for a few minutes while I get setup!” “setup for what?” “something I been meaning to try” “okay but it won’t be easy” “I know just make sure he does not focus on me” “got it” Ben moved backwards and stepped into the ocean while holding his sword up ‘I hope this works’ Silver and Dale launched another flurry of attacks at dale but he stopped every one of them. “Silver! Dale! We have to get in close” “easier said than done. You know what happened when you tried last time to get close to him” “I know Dale but listen we just need to keep him focused on us while ben gets his attack ready” “Ben? Okay I think I get it. Hey silver can you use your silver light like mine?” “not yet” “then lend me one of your knives I think I have an idea” “okay here” “if you 2 are done let’s get moving before he kills kate” Rintin started to run towards tony again. Silver just handed a knife to Dale and moved with Rintin. Kate was still being held by Tony and Chondro was still just waiting for his chance to strike at him. The wolf had no openings to be exploited even when his back was turned Chondro knew it was just a lure to bait him in. Ryker was waking up from being knocked out by tony and then got helped to his feet by Dale “Ryker I need your help on something” “what kind of help?” “I need you to launch an attack with me once He drops Kate” “What do you mean with you?” “I have an idea of how we can attack him” “It better work” “it will. Just wait for my signal” “okay” Rintin had reached tony and swiped his sword at him. Tony easily moved out of the way and then threw Kate at Rintin causing the 2 to collide. Silver had gotten behind tony and threw a few more of his knives but again something stopped them. Silver was starting feel a sense of hopelessness his knives never failed him before but this guy was stopping them with ease. Tony motioned his paw again but this time he pulled it back instead of pushing it forward. Something pulled Silver towards tony dragging him straight off his feet. Tony then caught the wolf by his neck as he got close to him. Using that chance created Chondro had finally launched an attack. “Take this. Sonic fist” Chondro’s right paw then began to vibrate rapidly and he swung it at tony. Chondro had managed to get close thanks to tony being distracted by silver. The punch unfortunately didn’t even come close. Tony had elegantly moved out of the way and threw Silver at Chondro. He then blasted the 2 of them away then turned his attention to Kate and Rintin who were recovering from their previous plight. “Kate we have to use combination 5 if we even hope to get this guy” “alright” Rintin’s sword appeared to have being coated in a shadow while kate started emitting Red spores from her paw. “Unoin attack: Red Spore Shadow wave” Rintin swung his sword and at the same time kate swung her paw. Rintin’s sword produced a cresent shaped shadow wave that was coated in kate’s red spores. Tony got wind of the attack in time and dodged it instead of blocking it. ‘that was dangerous. These guys have already reached that level? Alone they have no power but that last attack was strong enough to do some real damage. So that was what grandpa was betting on with these 2 squads.’ Tony’s chain of thought was interrupted by Kate and Rintin launching another attack at him. He had to dodge it. “kate he is not blocking them why?” “he probably can’t. he seems to notice that our attacks are dangerous.” “but still when Dale and silver attacked together he blocked them easily” “but silver and dale have the same ability. I think I know why he couldn’t block the attack. But we have to test it let’s try it again” Rintin and kate launched their attacks 5 times in quick succession trying to trap Tony. ‘Dang they noticed it’ Tony thought realizing he would have to block the attack he tried blocking it but it took some effort this time. He showed signs of struggling to block the attack but he did so. “Kate he struggled that time and I think I know why. we have to keep doing it” Tony was getting annoyed so he motioned both his paws this time and threw Rintin and Kate into the ocean behind them. Tony then turned to notice Ryker and Dale doing something he feared. “Ryker he noticed us” “now or never I guess” Dale and Ryker and their paws intertwined and between them was Silver’s knife. The knife was glowing and starting to form ice around it. An ice ball encased the knife but it also glowed from storing Dale’s purity light in it. “Here we go” Dale said as he and Ryker threw the ice ball at Tony it was moving fast but was just bigger than softball. Tony knew it was futile to block it so he dodged it barely but he did not notice that it went behind him to Silver who knew exactly what his brother and neighbor were planning. Silver then put this paws together and made them glow. He caught the ice ball between his paws and then added his own Silver light to it. He threw it back at tony who didn’t notice the attack until it was too late “what the-“ tony was hit by the ice ball and it exploded. For while silver and the others stood there wondering if their attack had been successful but as the misty smoke cleared it showed that their attack failed “Damn! I thought we got him there” Silver said drawing his last knife. “Nice attack there really did some damage to me but your attack was not fully combined. Still I must applaud you for managing to make an attack that strong at your level” “This is insane. My knives never failed me once they made contact” “your knife disintegrated because of the amount of energy stored in that attack. You are using the wrong weapon for your attack.” ‘ I have one left I can’t believe someone made use up all my weapons. This guy has not even gotten serious yet most of us are already tired and worn out. What are going to do I have to think of something’ Silver paused for moment and activated his hyper sense to get a good bearing on his surroundings. As he did that Chondro took another chance to attack tony this time tony was more annoyed. Tony ducked to dodge the punch chondro threw he then pushed chondro with such force he went flying all the back to the house and slammed straight into the wall. Silver watched as his brother passed out from force of impact. It was the distraction he needed to fully assess everything. Ryker and Dale were still in relatively good fighting condition. Rintin and Kate were on the beach Kate trying to get Rintin to breathe again after he knocked out. Then he realized that Ben had not shown himself in a while and he couldn’t find him anywhere. Silver did hear the sounds of a sword being swung but could have sworn they were coming from out in the ocean. He looked in horror as tony approached him. One last shot one last knife. Silver put as much energy as he could around the knife. And then took aim at Tony. He knew if they could land another hit like they did before that might be their best shot. He threw the knife at Tony hoping he would dodge it this time and not block it. Tony did neither he caught the knife in between his fingers “Impossible” “I said before you are using the wrong kind of weapon for this technique too bad you won’t get a chance to learn how to properly use it” Tony then took notice of Ryker and Dale. Ryker was aiming to freeze him and dale was trying to get close enough for his purity light canon to not be blocked. Silver also took the chance to punch tony. As they tried their attacks tony this time swung his paw and blew them all away towards the beach. They all fell on sand and tried getting up but they stayed down. It was getting so hopeless. So very hopeless. That was until ben finally made his move. Behind the fallen members of squad C the ocean started to act weird. Then it happened a cyclone rose out of the sea and into the sky. It was spinning so fast that it created a huge wind that was wreaking havoc. The Squad members well those who were still conscious looked on Silver cracked a small smile. “IT’S ABOUT TIME!” The top of the cyclone turned towards Tony and sped at him fast spinning like a drill. ‘Dang I guess I have to release it.’ Tony said to thought to himself. He reached under his shirt and tore off a gold chain of his neck. He then prepared to intercept the cyclone but was stopped when Grey had jumped towards it. Using his ability to make parts of his body intangible he reached his arms into the cyclone and pulled out Ben. The cyclone lost its rotation so the water just fell to the ground along with ben’s sword. Grey then pulled ben to the ground and pinned him down to the ground. “Hey grey! What did you do that for!” “quiet Ben, Tony don’t you think you have tested them enough” “I just wanted to be thorough” “removing that limiter necklace is going overboard and you and I both know it.” “I had to in order to block that attack. “ “dad put that on you so you wouldn’t lose control and kill them” “… okay point taken. But I have finished my assessment” “Are you going to tell them?” “in a few” “what are you 2 rambling on about! And Grey I thought he took your squad out” “he lied. Truth is he came here to test the squads for an upcoming war here in Nev city” “a war?” “two rivals of the Cantonole are coming to eliminate the squads that are training here” “But my squad is not even part of the cantonole” “but you are a part of project H no matter how much you want to deny that. Learn to accept it.” “I don’t want to accept something I had no control over” “what’s done is done. Just listen to what tony has to say” “ok but he better have a real good reason for roughing up my squad like that” “I did” Tony pulled out his smart phone and fired up a voice journal app. “NEv city war report: Assessment of squad is not available at this time. The reason being they have yet to add their 7th member. As for squad C I was fully able to assess each individuals level of strength. The rank test will be needed to confirm my finds but as of now Squad C has 3 members who are at Solider level. Ben has shown to have some mastery in sword technique’s as well as having foreseen; Ben should be classified as Solider rank.” Ben just tiled his head and gave tony a weird look. Tony then put his up into the air and clenched his fist. He used his powers to Bring all the members behind Ben so that they could hear his findings “Silver who was originally promoted to Solider rank has developed a few more abilities but has little skill in using them. He is at Solider level strength but should be classified as rookie level.” Silver got angry but he knew getting upset over this was not worth it. “Chondro who was also solider level has shown improvement in his skills and should remain at solider level.” Chondro just smiled when he realized what really happened “Ryker has potential but is not even at Rookie level as yet. He is probably the weakest of the group” Ryker held his head down being called the weakest was hurtful but true. “Dale has just joined the squad but shows he knows the most about union of powers and has shown a battle instinct that a few of them lack. Solider rank is where his skills are at” Dale looked confused. Did this guy really fight them so hard just to test how strong they were. “Rintin has incredible sword skill and control over his shadow. He does not know his limits yet and is still unfit for battle. His skills are at that of a Solider rank but he is not mentally ready for battle” Rintin got a little bit ticked off at that but he was too tired to do anything so he let it slide “Kate did not show her true potential in this battle but from previous intel it is clear she has developed a wide array of skills that serve her well. She is well on her way to be solider rank but for now should be regarded as a rookie level” “For suggestion whether squad C should be allowed to stay for this war or be put into protection it is clear they are capable of defending themselves. End of voice log” Tony tapped a few buttons on his phone and sent the voice log to his father who would make a decision on squad C’s participation in the upcoming battle “Dad should have sent an official tester rather than you” Grey said finally releasing Ben. “He would have if the situation was not so dire. We are facing 1 member of the jueve here! We can’t take any chances. And the way they made their way here under the radar makes me believe that they are planning something big.” “You 2 are making no sense. If someone wanted to attack us wouldn’t they just catch a plane here and attack?” Ben asked “Ben you are still new at this. If they entered our territory like that they would be killed before they made it to the ground. The ventonole has been known for being sneaky and deceptive. But the Rontonole are the real problem here. We don’t know who they are sending here or what they really hope to accomplish. That is why Dad and grandpa are on a flight here right now along with Raja” Rintin eyes went wide. And he started sweating profusely. Ryker and the others noticed this but before they could address it Rintin spoke up “Raja?” “Yes Rintin.” “I GOT TO GO. I see you guys later” RIntin said before he dashed home. Dale just shook his shoulders then followed Rintin “That was strange” Kate said “grey let us go. I have to find a place to stay.” “Okay Tony. See ya ben” “see ya” Tony and Grey started passing through the ground and then disappeared. Leaving Ben and the others shaken up and tired from the battle “Guys. He didn’t even use half of his power and still knocked us about easily” Ben said he clearly sounded sad and was quite worried “Ben. Don’t start doubting your decision now I am going to help you train for the upcoming battle. And I will also be in it.” “Thanks Kate. But what worries me is that These guys coming here scare the Cantonole so much that Grandpa and Grey’s father are both coming here, If they attack us what would happen to us?” “Ben! You are the leader if you start feeling things are hopeless then we will be in trouble. There is one thing that Tony was not counting on was our teamwork. If we can improve that then maybe we can stand a chance.” Silver said “I agree with Silver. That last attack that dale and the others launched landed a key hit. If we can improve and make more attacks like that we might just stand a chance.” Chondro interjected while Ryker just kept his head down. “Guess I can’t harbor so many doubts. We are going to have to change our training a bit.” “Sounds fun. Now boys how about I explain to you a few things about these ranks that the wolf gave us.” “Go on kate” “The cantonole has 4 ranks in which it members are divided. Rookie are furs who just joined them are learning the procedures and gaining new abilities. These include furs like Silver and Chondro who have been on a few missions and have some mild abilities. After Rookie we have solider rank. Solider rank includes persons who mastered either a weapon or ability to a certain extent. They can include persons like Grey and his squad. This rank is where most of the cantonole fighters belong very few advance past solider rank. Above solider rank is knight rank and that would be where The red violent was before she quit. Knight ranks are way more powerful than solider ranks and can use multiple abilities or weapons. Their strength gives them command over all lower ranks and they are typically sent as head of missions. The final rank is King rank. Only the most powerful furs in the cantonole can call themselves this. Not even the red violet reached this level. This rank gives the most perks as you have control over all lower ranks and only answer to the boss himself. There are few king ranked members but all of the 6 generals, the boss and a few others at this level right now” “wait if Evan and kevin are classified as Solider rank how powerful are the knight ranks and for that matter the king ranks?” “More powerful than you know Ryker, The boss single handily took down an entire swat team in less than 5 seconds. And that is something nearly all Knight ranked and above can do” “you are kidding me right?” “afraid not playing on their level takes years of training and experience. But if the 2 bosses and a general are coming here that must mean they suspect something more than just 1 jueve member.” “Kids are you okay?” Marie said coming out of the house “Fine mom” ben replied “Good then come inside and let the medical team check you out I am sure Tony did not take it easy on you” “Mom!? You knew about the test?” “Grey came in and told me about it.” “so that’s where he was” “yep now come inside lunch will be ready shortly.” With that the kids went to the dinning room to eat lunch while Marie returned to Bruce’s office. “Did they pass the test?” “Seems like most of them did. Unfortunately ryker is classified as a failure” “Hope that doesn’t break his spirit” “Bruce, I think I am going to join my father when he comes” “WHY!?” “I had 2 older siblings a Sister and a brother who were all killed by the Ventonole.” “the risk of the family business I suppose” “they were not part of it yet. I was only 12 at the time when the ventonole bombed their college” “the bombing that happened in Japan?” “yes that same one” “they killed 345 people just to get to your siblings?” “yes it was horrible. I mean my dad is no saint but he is no way near was heartless as they are” “this reminds me of a field trip I took with a friend. We had to choose to eat some poisonous plants because we ran out of food so we just picked the one with the least amount” “weird but good analogy. All 10 of the rival families are merciless the Ventonole is the one with the most gruesome reputation. Over the years the Cantonole has lost many offspring from attacks by the Ventonole. My dad maybe a horrible father but he would not stand by and let them kill any member of his blood family like that again.” “Must have been tough losing 2 kids like that” “it was after they died dad became the heartless person he is today. No matter how badly I want to forget about the cantonole and my dad I have to join them in this fight. I Can’t let the Ventonole claim the family I just got back” “If you are going to join them so am I” “Bruce?” “don’t worry marie I think it would be the best option for us to work with them right now. After all if these ventonole characters are as merciless as you say they are then they could use all the help” “I knew I married the perfect husband” marie said with a seducing look on her face. Bruce responded by coming up to her and kissing her on the lips. “and I married the perfect wife. Now come on lets go eat lunch” The two headed to join the kids. Elsewhere Kaila had just exited a Spa and decided to take a walk ‘Think I should check in on those boys. It has been nice to relax a little but I still can’t help it that I worry over what those boys are getting themselves into.’ Kaila started walking towards Hollywood tower but it was a good 2 miles away but she decided the walk would be a good way for her to unwind before heading in. She was sure Grey would get upset over her not taking the week completely off but none the less she was going to visit them. As she walked a few blocks she started feeling something. She had a weird feeling she was being followed but tried not to look like she noticed it. She turned down an alley way and walked past the trash cans and boxes that littered it. As she turned the corner to get back on a mainstream street she noticed someone had entered the alley way. After she turned the corner she turned around and re-entered the alley way to confront whoever was following her but she could have never guessed that would be the biggest mistake she could have made. As she stood in the alley way she noticed that is was 2 furs following her judging by the tails waving behind them felines of some sort. “Ok what do you 2 want and why were you following me” “we were hoping you would lead us to your squad but I guess we underestimated you” One of the felines said as they both removed their disguises. Now they were recognizable. They were both black panthers who wore the Rontonole uniform for their foot soldiers. The letter R was on their chests with blood drip at the end of the tip of the letter. Their outfits were all black except for that white letter. “Rontonole! What the hell do you guys want” Kaila said withdrawing her whip. “we are members of the Ca-hans and we have come to capture all Cantonole members in this area.” “Well you won’t be capturing me without a fight.” Kaila then flicked her wrist and her whip caught on fire from the handle to the tip. She knew in this alley way she would have a huge advantage since there was not much room for them to maneuver. “Looks like the girl has some fight in her how should we deal with her” “Same way we deal with all Cantonole scum we beat the crap out of them” The panthers drew their weapons one drew a Ak47 assault rifle with the ROntonole sign on it. The other put on some brace knuckles on his fists. Kaila made her move once she saw the gun. She used her whip to throw a few trash cans and boxes at the panthers. They also caught on fire from her whip. As the objects made their way to the panthers the one with the brace knuckle just grinned and then punched down all the debris that Kaila had thrown at them “Why thank you. It normally takes a lot longer for my knuckles to warm up” “huh?” Kaila then noticed that the metal of knuckle had begun to glow bright red. The panther then punched the air in front of him sending a burst of hot air towards Kaila. She tried to use her whip to defend herself but the air moved so fast her whip was just no strong enough to stop it. She was blown out of the alley and across the street through traffic but she did not hit any cars. The panthers walked out of the alley way looking extremely confident. They had every right to be in one blow they had defeated Kaila and completely their first objective. The panther with the rifle took a radio out of his pocket while the other reached into his a pulled out a Crystal ball the size of a baseball. He put it next the unconscious Kaila and then it started to glow brightly so bright it blinded anyone looking at it. As the light from the ball subsided Kaila was nowhere to be found she had vanished leaving her whip behind. “Mission accomplished sir” the panther said into the radio “Good work.” “we were unable to find their squads location sir but we did get her” “A minor setback. Head for the next area. Our intelligence says that the Cantonole have connections with the Minefells in the area head over there and see if you can find any more of our targets” “Yes sir” The panther then put the radio away and ran away towards Palm estate with his partner. The onlookers had begun to call 911 and sirens could be heard in the distance. At Hollywood tower Grey and Tony had just reentered the apartment to find the other boys playing some video games. They were clothed this time after being warned of who had come to visit them. Tony had just eyed the boys who took notice of him and all started staring “Do you guys have a problem with me?” The boys just turned back to their game not bothering to respond because they were too afraid of him. “you scare them you know, just like you scare me” “aren’t all older brothers supposed to scare their younger ones” “only the ones that really like to pick on the younger ones” “do you really want to bring that up again because I might not be as gentle as I used to be” “Don’t you even dare-“ Grey was interrupted by a sudden headache. He held his head and closed his eyes as just like ben he got a vision. “Grey? What was that about?” Grey did not answer instead he ran towards the door opened it and in a dash made his way out of the building “Dammit! You guys order the security not cut off all access to this floor and put a force field. Don’t leave this room.” Tony said as he dashed to catch up to Grey. The boys just looked puzzled but knew something was terribly wrong so they followed orders. Tony had used his foreseen to pin point Grey and followed him but by time he caught up to him they had already ran the 1 and a half miles to the area where Kaila was attacked. Grey had already gotten their and was holding Kaila’s whip while kneeling down on the sidewalk. “does that belong to Kaila?” “yes” “what did you see?” “I saw her in trouble she was attacked by 2 panthers.” “The Rontonole! They made their move quicker than I thought” “They got her” Grey pointed to the body next to him that was already covered up. Tony went over to it and removed the covering to see the face. The face was Kaila’s it was Kaila’s body. She appeared to have been shot at least 5 times with the rifle the panthers had. “DAMMIT. I should have put her on high alert before I administered the test” “It was my fault. I gave her the week off. I had her isolated while the rest of my squad was with me” “why did you give her a week off and from what?” “I have known Kaila the longest out of everyone on my squad. I knew since the contest was announced she had been over exerting herself. Sometimes she would stay up all night to train herself. Of all us she was the most worried about the contest no matter how much I tried to get her to slow down she kept speeding up. I ordered her to take the week off because I noticed she was not herself she was harboring doubts about her place on the squad. I told her not come to any meetings or training sessions for the week. I ordered to have fun and it cost her her life.” “Grey you could have never known this was going to happen” “I should have warned her before we left this morning. I should have made sure that she knew. It is all my fault. How the hell am I supposed to be boss of the Cantonole If I can’t even keep my best friend alive” tears had started to pour down grey’s face. He had lost his closest friend the one he knew the best and the one who he trusted the most. Kaila had been someone he looked to for support and help when he needed it. She was one who gave him the strength to be the leader of his squad when he doubted himself so much. Tony had nothing to say to cheer up his brother. Even though he and his brother grew up mostly apart it was still hard for him to see him crying like this with no end in sight. He was feeling horrible, he messed up so badly he let the Rontonole take a member of Grey’s squad without even putting up a fight and judging by the looks of the area Kaila did not put up much of a fight either. Grey couldn’t keep himself together the calm wolf that he was just disappeared and was replaced by one who could not dry his tears “HOW AM I SUPPOSE TO CALL YSELF A LEADER” Tony had had enough of this. He went over a grabbed his brother off the ground a lifted him up by his collar “Grey stop acting like this is going to bring her back. You crying does no one any good. Right now we have to make sure that no one else dies from this. You still have the rest of your squad to think about.” “how can I protect them when I couldn’t protect her!” Tony slapped Grey across the face “look the Rontonole killed her already and they won’t stop there. IF YOU WANT TO SIT AROUND MOPING OVER HER DO IT AFTER WE GET REVENGE ON THOSE WHO DID THIS TO HER” Grey had finally calmed down and regained control over his emotions “what are we going to do.” “we need to contact grandpa and then warn marie. They probably got the drop on Kaila. Judging by the looks of that alley way they attacked her quickly and she had no time to properly fight back. They weren’t just some foot soldiers or random thugs. This was probably done by members of the ca-hans.” “The ca-hans ?” “yes this is getting messier by the minute. Not only is a member of the Jueve on his way here but members of the ca-hans are already in town making trouble. A member of the Jueve is on his way here and also a few regal fighters. I hope Raja arrives shortly we won’t be able to handle things by ourselves” “what about Keith?” “what about me?” Asked an otter who had approached to check out the scene. He was wearing a beige business suit. It covered most of his pink fur. Face was also partially covered by his blonde hair that resembled Kevin’s. Everything about this otter was identical to kevin. “Where did you come from?” Asked tony surprised to see Keith “I live in this city remember. I had heard about what the Ventonole were planning so I came back here after I took care of that incident at Prison 13” “Well you are too late. They already got one of grey’s squad” “This is a little bit too subtle for my taste” “Huh?” both grey and tony had asked “the Ventonole are known for showing no mercy. For them to have taken care of this so cleanly quietly means they are planning something big” “This was the work of the ca-hans not the Ventonole” “Even so this smells fishy” “guess you should know being an otter and all” “very funny tony. You should head back and make sure that squad D is safe and secure. I would hate to lose another member especially my son.” “Kevin and the others should be fine. They setup a force field on their floor before I left so it should be secure for at least another 2 hours” “get back there any way. I am going to visit squad C” “I don’t think they would like it if one of the 6 generals showed up there unannounced after I just gave them their test.” “I won’t be showing up as one of the 6 generals I will be showing up as Ben’s principle delivering something in person.” “I forgot you are also in charge of that school right?” “yes I am. I should get going before it gets any later I have a feeling that I may have to have a long chat with Raja when I am finished delivering this to ben” Keith said holding up an envelop “have fun with that. Oh by the way what was the emergency at Prison 13?” “There was a break out where a few prisoners broke out. 2 of which managed to escape the area completely” “but how? Few persons have ever escaped that place.” “Tony the ones who broke out were Bill and Eve” “BILL! YOU GUYS LET BILL ESCAPE!” “by the time I got there to subdue him he was long gone. Those guards never stood a chance against him” “Why did bill escape now? He should know grandpa and dad will be personally hunting him down.” “that is the problem. The Ventononle attacking us now means that he will have a huge head start by the time we wrap things up here.” “I just lost Kaila and now you’re telling me bill escaped. This day could not get any worse” “those 2 choose the perfect time to escape probably heard about a war with the Ventonole and took their chance to escape. Grey you know Bill better than anyone-“ “Don’t say it I am not in the mood to deal with anything concerning bill I have a squad to go protect” with that Grey walked off now feeling more angry than sad. He had to refocus now and mourn Kaila after he brought down the Ventonole problem was could he evn do it. “Your brother is not taking this too well I see. I hope he can learn to get over death quickly” “He better because this probably won’t be the only death we have in dealing with these guys. Remember the last time we were at war they bombed a Japanese college.” “I am more worried of bill rearing his head around here during this conflict. Bill is a problem that we need to deal with before he gets too far ahead” “guess we deal with the Ventonole first and that monster after” “I should get going now tony keep them safe. The boss and your dad should be here shortly me and raja can hold down the fort for now.” “I Think I can handle that but I don’t envy what grey has to do right now. Telling his squad that Kaila is dead is not going to be easy” “I know it isn’t much but lend your support for them. You still are his big brother” “that title doesn’t mean anything in the cantonole” “you are right but it still means something to both you does it not?” “It meant something back when it was 3 of us not 2” “The things that can happen that define our lives. They always surprise me. Well farewell” “bye” Keith was walking off but took once last look as the body not being zipped into a body bag by police officers. The officers found the bag they had had been torn somehow so had to get another one. When they removed Kaila from the torn bag Keith saw something that got his attention. “Excuse me officers. Could you please remove her clothing” The officers complied and began to remove the clothing off the dead young girl “Keith why haven’t you left and for that matter why are you asking them to strip her don’t tell me you are a pervert like… What the heck!” “This is interesting” “Oh you got to be kidding me. WHAT THE HECK DID THEY DO?”