Chapter 14: The Decision

Kale pants as he continues to run as fast as he can on three good feet. When the last wolf from his pack had passed him at the beginning of the great battle, Kale knew it wouldn't matter who won or who lost, he was dogmeat. His a priori betrayal of lying to his pack, and hiding and assisting the prey animals with information was enough to get him the "mark of shame." But with his outright betrayal of deliberately siding with his pack's enemies and trying to attack his godfather, he'd be better dying a slow and miserable death at an illegal animal testing lab than to suffer the punishment his pack will give him if they catch up. Even his brothers won't object, so there will be no one to stick up for him in his defense. Heck, Luciano and Bugsy will probably give him the mark of shame personally.

All that's left for Kale to do is to run far away, for as long as he can. The teenager sighs. He knows that will be impossible, but he has to try anyway. It's all he has left.

Now he knows what it's like to be an outcast in both worlds of predator and prey. As a wolf, prey would never want to associate with him under the fear that he'd kill them, and when he tried to befriend them, that friendship was achievable only because of lies. As a predator, his desire to be loved and have fun like a real teenager, and his below-average abilities that he just couldn't improve, starkly contrasted with how wolves should live their lives as stated in the codes of wolf society, as well as the basic laws of predators as endowed by Nature.

His parents would try to make other wolves accept him by arguing "Oh, our son Kale is just different from most wolves, and that's what makes 'im special. He's just a late bloomer, but will get betta given enough time and practice."

Others, like his pack, would be more honest. "Kale is a disgrace ta all wolves and predators everywhere. He can't do nothin' right, and won't get betta, only worse. His parents should'a killed him like all wolves do ta whelps with deformities."

He knows for a fact that his parents are ashamed, no absolutely appalled, by his actions tonight. Even Sniff-Tracker Eddie's and Sharnese's love wasn't unconditional. True, they showered him with unconditional love, but that's because Kale never betrayed his pack, family, and species by siding with prey animals. He really did make his parents roll over in their nonexistent graves, and they would disown him for sure if they were still alive.

And the worst thing is, Kale knows he deserves it.

But that's all the time he allows himself to think about that. Right now, he fully concentrates on finding scent-ridding spray which, while it won't save him from his pack's pursuit, will at least buy him some time...Maybe.

The sound of prey animals cheering in the distance doesn't even give him the faintest of hopes that each member of his pack was killed in the battle. If anything, it only serves to seal his fate. He knows the Bone-Chompers, they're smart enough to cut their losses and run rather than being stubborn and getting themselves killed just to die with glory. His pack has too many other territories and too big of a reputation to throw it all away for just one large territory. And the best way for his pack to regain some of their tarnished reputation is to punish him. There will be no abandonment this time; they're out for blood, his blood.

It would probably be better for Kale to kill himself and deny his pack the satisfaction of getting back at him, but he just isn't brave enough to do it. That's a lesser-known but most essential aspect about suicide, it takes courage to pull it off. But Kale was never a true fighter against other predators, and had relied either on his pack or cheating with a makeshift weapon to do the job, so he's too spineless to take any predator's life without help, even his own. If only he could find a nearby predator or human hunter who he could goad into killing him, but there are no other predators in this section of the forest, his pack killed them all, and humans are doing a good job obeying the no-trespassing law.

Kale thinking: "Why is it dat whenever I want a human around, dey's never around?"

When Kale smells the scents of his pack from one mile away and closing fast, that's when he decides it's no use anymore. Apparently, they are more eager to punish him than he imagined, which augmented their speed and determination to catch up with him. At the same time, the scents of his pack members also gives Kale the inspiration to do the most courageous thing possible in his current predicament: go toward them.

The source of his courage is a promise that he wants to keep, a promise he made to the hedgies—once again owing the most profound decisions he's made in his life to prey animals. He will finally tell his pack how he truly feels about being a wolf and living with them. He knows he's only shortening his life span to less than 30 minutes, but would rather spend one moment giving them a piece of his mind than running away and never dissing out his pack.

Kale thinking: "I'm da one who's gonna find satisfaction from the punishment. I will die happy, and make dee others feel terrible for da rest of dare lives."

It doesn't take long for Kale to see the silhouettes of his pack in the distance, and as expected, his brothers are leading them, not Leo.

Luciano: "There he is!"

The wolves gun for him, and Kale does the same. The former are eager to beat him up and likely kill him, and the latter is eager to start ranting at them. His tantrum two weeks ago was only a bite-sized treat compared to the things Kale has been "cooking up" his entire life. He knows exactly what to say, who to say it to, and how to say it, all by heart.

Bugsy and Luciano get to Kale simultaneously, and also start beating him simultaneously.

Bugys: "Eres un traidor—!"

Luciano: "—Chupar escoria—!"

Bugsy: "—Lamentable excusa—!"

Luciano and Bugsy in unison: "—De un hermano!"

Note: Bugsy and Luciano collectively said, "You traitorous, scum-sucking, pitiful excuse of a brother!" in Spanish.

Emmy (joins in the beating): "You chose prey animals ov'a ya's own pack!"

Gabby (ditto): "Ya's own family!"

Leo (ditto): "And ya's own species!"

Nelson (ditto): "You's a disgrace!"

Bonnie (ditto): "An abomination!"

Clyde (ditto): "An insult ta our pack!"

Capone (ditto): "Da weakest, most pathetic wolf in history!"

B.T.K. (ditto): "Yerr lower dan skunk droppin's!"

Dillinger (ditto): "Hate you!"

Although Kale's body is taking a huge beating and demands he lay down and pass out, his will to give his pack a lecture refuses to succumb. With a surge of strength, Kale grabs a nearby stone and hits each wolf across the face with it in one, swinging motion.

Kale: "No more! No more! It's time I tell all'uv you's somethin' I've been wantin' ta say for a long time!"

Bugsy and Luciano can't believe what just happened, they thought that if they beat up their own brother it would break any spirit of resistance. But Kale just stood up to them all. However, this won't go unpunished.

Gabby runs forward, which causes Kale to swing the stone in his paw at her, leaving him wide open for Leo to come in from the side and bite his forepaw, causing him to drop the stone.

Leo: "Restrain 'im!"

Dillinger, Nelson, Emmy, and Capone each grab a leg, hoist Kale up, pin him against a tree, and hold him there.

Leo: "You lost ya's privilege ta speak! We shouldn't've left ya ta rot when you's broke ya's legs! We should'a killed you ourselves!"

Kale (snarky): "Too bad you's didn't, and now you's gotta live with ya's mistake. I know you's'll kill me, so I can say whatev'a I want and not worry 'bout livin' with regret!"

He spits blood into Leo's eyes, which infuriates the godfather. Leo starts walking up to Kale, then suddenly stops. He looks at Bugsy and Luciano and nods. The brothers nod back and proceed to beat Kale, hard. Just when Kale thinks they're finished, they claw his belly, getting through to the skin.

Although Bugsy and Luciano are fully committed to punishing Kale, they seriously think that their brother will die if Leo doesn't order them to stop soon—and they know that Leo is aware of this. Luciano and Bugsy are the ones who are disturbed right now, not Kale, because even if their little brother betrayed the pack, he's still their little brother. They don't want to kill him, they'd never forgive themselves if they did.

Fortunately, just when they think Leo won't order them to stop slashing Kale until after their brother is dead, Leo then holds his paw up, and the brothers stop.

Kale groans in pain and his vision is blurry, but it starts getting clearer when Leo begins walking up to him, and is back to normal when the godfather stops.

Leo (grabs Kale by the throat): "Do that again, and I'll have you neutered..."

Despite Kale's determination, even his face shows fear in reaction to Leo's threat. He nods, which causes Leo to let go of him and then step back to speak.

Leo: "Unfortunately, we need an explanation from you's. Why'dja do it, Track? I was ya's daddy's best friend, I cried with you when he died, I took you's in when no one else did, I let ya be a part'a my pack without killin' a top predator first, forgave you for ya's first failed hunt, offered you's a chance at redemption, got my pack ta stop pickin' on ya, let ya's tantrum slide, and showered you's with praise when you started actin' like a real wolf durin' our occupation of Area 7...And this is how you repay me?! You betrayed our own species and family! For prey animals!"

Kale (nods head at the pack): "You call dis a family? What kinda family never loves me for who I am? What kinda family tries to shape me inta someone I'm not for their own selfish purposes? What kinda family relentlessly makes fun of me despite all I've done for ya's? What kinda family leaves one of their own for dead just because he failed a coming-of-age hunt? What kinda family sends spies to observe me because they don't trust my word? What kinda family sets impossible standards for me ta meet by makin' a deal without my say in things? What kinda family never gives me any true credit even when I get somethin' accomplished all for you? What kinda family makes me kill innocent kids, and scolds me for endin' their sufferin' sooner? What kinda family values the codes of wolf society more than wolves themselves?!

"You's da ones who made me betray you's! All I ev'a wanted ta do in life is be a kid and be loved by my family! I didn't wanna be a stone-cold killer, nev'a wanted ta follow da codes of wolf society because they prevent me from bein' free like any animal should be! But not once have any of you's tried to sit down and talk ta me about how I felt!" (Looks and speaks harshly at Bugsy and Luciano) "Especially you's two!"

Most of the wolves, and particularly Bugsy and Luciano, exchanged surprised looks. The latter feel very guilty for not realizing the things their brother was feeling sooner, and the former can't believe Kale hasn't been satisfied with his life as a wolf. Leo, however, is unwavering.

Leo: "Have you's ever seen ya's reflection in water? You're. A. Wolf! You have ta do wolf things! You have ta be superior ta prey and other predators, and ta show those two categories who's boss! You have ta follow the codes of wolf society! It's in our genes, you can't fight ya's DNA!"

Kale: "Why do we even gotta concern ourselves with genetics, when we're animals?! Dee other reason I betrayed ya's is because dat prey animal family gave me what I always wanted: true fun, love, and the freedom ta be who I wanna be! With them, I had the freedom ta follow my heart, 'stead of followin' the stupid codes of wolf society! They treated me betta than ma n' dad, even when I was a stuck-up jerk to 'em! The kind and caring treatment dey gave me was far betta dan my life as a slave with all'uv you's!"

Clyde: "We really should'a killed ya dat night! You's've been brainwashed by dose weaklings!"

Kale: "No, I chose ta believe in their ways of livin' over mine. You's all are da ones who've been brainwashed by the codes of wolf society!"

Leo: "You's parents're lucky not to have lived long enough ta see you betray everything you, as a wolf, have been taught by them."

Kale: "No, Leo. Dey'd be ashamed of you. At how you value the codes of wolf society more than anyone in the pack. There's no love here, only comradery, and dat's not enough ta run a pack. My parents were ahead of their time ta have realized wolf packs should be run by the love of family, and how no one should abandon, betray, or disown anyone no matter how much dey mess up."

Bugsy and Luciano smile at how Kale, in all his years of neglect and abuse, has always held the Sniff-Tracker motto in his heart. That makes them so proud of him, but the same can't be said for Leo.

Leo: "That don't change the fact that you're da one who betrayed us tonight, and ya's parents too, because their motto said nothin' about sidin' with prey animals. All because you think I don't care about you's, which you know is a lie. I know you're not blind ta how generous I've been to you's. I could'a kicked you's outta the pack a long time ago for failin' ta meet our standards, I should have kicked you's out a long time ago, but I didn't. I held onto you in keepin' the promise I made ta ya's parents, even when it would'a been betta to let you's go.

"But you've had ya's time ta explain ya's true feelings, now it's time ta get down ta business." (To the pack) "Gettin' ta where we are now, at being the best wolf pack in the U.S.A., has been hard enough, but maintainin' our high standing is a harder and never-ending process. Because of Kale, we have been utterly disgraced, we may not even be the best wolf pack in America anymore. But we can still recover from dis setback, with or without Track. Without would be easier, but with him would enable us ta use his nose ta our advantage. I know what most'a you's will say, which is why we're not puttin' it to a vote." (While slowly turning) "Instead, ta prove I'm not a heartless guy who only cares about the codes of wolf society, we're gonna let you decide ya fate, Kale."

Everyone gasps at Leo who is now looking at Kale straight in the eyes, but he speaks before anyone can form an opinion.

Leo: "Since you love those prey animals more than us—your pack, family, and species—you can either choose to be with them, which will result in you getting the 'mark of shame' that will expel you from all wolf society everywhere. Or you can choose to remain with us, and I promise to start trying harder to uphold your parents' motto in my pack...If anyone has anything to say to him, now's the time."

Bugsy walks up to Kale and says, "You heard him, hermanito. He's going to put family before the pack!"

Luciano: "We know you're going to choose us, because we're your family and friends."

Gabby: "Yeah. Papa is willing to accept you back into the pack despite everything you've done to tarnish it. You have to feel some obligation to remain in it."

Clyde: "We'll all change for you, Kale. We promise."

Dillinger nods yes, crosses his heart, holds up his paw as if taking a vow and says, "Cross my heart and hope to die, stick a wolf claw in my eye."

Bonnie: "Don't forget, I need a kind babysitter like you for my pups from time to time."

Emmy: "And think of the alternative, of what will happen to you if you get the mark of shame. You'll become every wolf's worst enemy."

Nelson: "You'll never get a girlfriend, or get married, or have pups of your own if you choose the prey animals over us, Kale."

B.T.K.: "For better and worse, you're a part of all our lives, Kale, it's what families and wolf packs accept. And we accept you."

Capone: "Use your head on this, Kale. I know you're smart, you'll make the right choice...For yourself more than us."

Luciano: "Even we will have to turn against you if you get the mark of shame." (Eyes watering) "You can't want that. Bugsy and I won't be able to take it..."

Bugsy (eyes watering): "We love you, Kale. I mean, yeah, we really banged you up, but that's because we were hoping you'd see what it would be like if you get the mark of shame. But it hurt us too. It tore Luciano and me apart."

Luciano: "Don't tear us apart for real, hermanito...Please...We'll never get over what we did to you unless you stay with us."

Leo: "The fact that I'm letting you choose should be the first sign that I'm going to change for you, Kale. It's about time I balance devotion to family and the codes of wolf society, and you're going to be the one to teach me how. Think about everything we've said and make you choice. But do so with certainty, no second thoughts after hearing what we'll say and what we'll do when you chose one choice over the other."

Kale nods and thinks things over. He knows that everyone is serious due to their proper grammar. Once again, when he makes his choice there is no going back. He will either never see his pack and brothers again, or never see the hedgies again. He will either continue living as a wolf, or continue living as a dog. He will either experience true happiness, or experience true sorrow for the rest of his life. He will either be loved forever, or hated forever. He will either be set for life, or doomed for life. But no matter what he chooses, he will finally be in charge of his own life.

Having decided, he looks back to his pack, and gives them his choice.

Kale: "I choose..." (Waits for everyone to hold their breaths in anticipation) "the prey animals."

Instead of a humorous record scratch, the 11 other wolves swear they can hear the sound of glass shattering in the seriousness of what Kale just did to himself, and them.

Luciano (shakes his head in disbelief): "No...No...NOOOOO-OOOOO!"

Bugsy: "WHHHHYYYYYYYYY?!"

Kale: "Haven't you's heard da story of Little Red Riding Hood? Wolves are da biggest manipulators and liars in the animal kingdom. With the exception of my hermanos, none of you's would keep ya's word! I know you's were lying! You's just said all dat ta make me choose you over them, not because you really wanted ta make me stay! And you, Leo, want me gone more than anyone, so I'll stop holdin' back you's dreams! That's why you's let dee oth'as speak ta me, so I'd know they're lyin' and choose ta get the mark of shame."

Leo: "I'll...be...darned...You's really are smarter dan you's look, Kale."

Bugsy and Luciano look at Leo in horror.

Bugsy (low and venomous): "What...?"

Luciano: "You wanted ta get our hermanito, and your godson, kicked outta da pack all along?!"

Emmy: "We all did."

Dillinger gives a grin while shrugging and muttering "Heh," in agreement.

Capone: "We don't need ya's lil' bro now dat our man, Billy the Kid, is with us." (Pats B.T.K. on the shoulder)

B.T.K.: "So gew-ood riddance ta ba-yad rubbish."

Bugsy (to Leo): "What about your vow to our parents? Why would you do this?

Leo: "For the exact reasons he just said." (Points to Kale)

Kale: "Don't blame Leo and the others for everything, hermanos. I made my choice as soon as I let RJ ride on me like a stead inta battle. I've had it with bein' a wolf! And you's two" (points at his brothers) "wouldn't be enough ta make life betta for me in da pack. You had 15 years ta get ta know me, 15 years ta ask me how I felt, and five years to break away from Leo's pack and find a better one for me. I never spoke up before because I never had the chance, what with havin' my voice silenced all the time because of the need ta follow the codes of wolf society. All'uv you's tried ta change me inta someone I'm not, into someone I don't wanna be. I know what life will be like with the mark of shame. I'll be nothing. With the prey animal family, I'll be nothing. But with this pack, I'll be less than nothing! With the prey animal family, at least I'll feel loved for real! I'll be free to live my life how I want to, without followin' da codes of wolf society."

Bugsy: "B-but we...We'll..."

Luciano: "You're..."

Leo: "Enough! He's made his choice. Dillinger, Capone, Gabby, and Emmy, grab a leg and bring him ta me!"

As those four go over to Kale, Luciano and Bugsy start begging to Leo.

Luciano: "Don't do it, Leo! Please!"

Bugsy: "There are other ways he can be punished without the mark of shame! I mean, the codes of wolf society say—"

Leo smacks the brothers in the face, knocking them to the ground. He always feels a simmering impatience when someone (1) tries to lecture him about the (1) codes of wolf society.

Leo points at Luciano and Busgy while saying to the wolves that are not bringing Kale, "Restrain 'em for me. Make 'em watch dis."

The other wolves grab Bugsy and Luciano by the limbs and drag them over to Leo.

Leo (growling): "Kale has violated the (1) codes of wolf society enough times dat he deserves no protection from it." (1)

Luciano: "But his (1) mark of shame isn't bound by the (1) codes of wolf society! Without killin' a top predator on his own, he's not an official member of our pack!"

Leo: "Spare me ya's tedious legal analysis (1). He betrayed the entire wolf species, as well as the laws of predator and prey dat Nature set for all animals."

By now Kale has been brought to Leo, but unlike his brothers, the teenager shows no fear and doesn't struggle. That makes Luciano and Bugsy feel worse, because it only confirms that Kale is fully alright living a life without his brothers.

Leo (to Luciano and Bugsy): "Even when we give the mark of shame, I'm not gonna let anyone here kill ya's bro. We'll leave him as we did before, but if we's do ever cross paths with 'im again, den all bets're off. If that happens, then if Kale wants ta lodge a complaint against me, he'll have ta do it from dee other side of his grave (1). IF enough of him can be scrapped up ta put into one." (1)

Water gushes out of Bugsy's and Luciano's eyes. They want to ravage Leo for what he's done and for what he's about to do, but the others' hold on them is too strong. All they can do is watch.

Leo (to Kale): "Because of what you did today, you should be dead (2). Because of who your parents are to me, you're alive (2). But you are dead to us for good (2). And today you will know how a traitor suffers." (2)

Leo gets into an attack stance, and concentrates on where the mark of shame will be.

One strike later, and the night sky becomes filled with Kale's screams.

Note: (1)=Based on Star Wars: The Mandalorian Armor by K. W. Jeter

(2)=Based on the movie Freedom Writers.

Five minutes later, when Kale is no longer in sight of the pack, the wolves restraining Bugsy and Luciano still haven't eased up on the brothers, even when those two have given no indication that they will do anything rash. They were compelled to watch Leo give Kale the mark of shame, which was like seeing their own children being tortured to death. Bugsy and Luciano felt so angry and so sad, that all the aggressive and passionate fires of beating up Leo had died out, replaced by cold and bitter emotionlessness.

Luciano (monotone voice): "Can ya's let us go now?"

Leo: "Promise not ta try and attack me?"

Bugsy (monotone voice): "Why do that when we got somethin' much betta planned."

Bonnie: "Oooo! Dis should be interestin'!"

Leo: "Let 'em go."

Nelson and Clyde let go of Bugsy, and B.T.K. and Bonnie let go of Luciano. The brothers remain on the ground, not bothering to get on their feet.

Luciano: "You've gone too far, Leo."

Bugsy: "Picking on our hermanito, makin' impossible demands of him, and lyin' ta us and him about the deal you's made with us is one thing. But deliberately trying to get him kicked outta da Bone-Chompers just so you's can have ya's 'perfect' wolf pack is da last straw."

Leo: "Even you's know he violated the codes of wolf society and the laws of predator and prey. And he said it himself, he wanted to betray us before I had our pack try to convince him ta stay with us."

Luciano looks over to Bugsy, who nods at him, causing the older one to nod too. As they get to their feet the rest of the pack is wary. They were expecting the brothers to be screaming bloody murder and punching holes in trees or the ground after what they had just been through. But Luciano and Bugsy haven't even gritted their teeth. It's all very abnormal for wolves to behave in such a way. But the strangest thing is yet to come.

Luciano: "We're leavin' you, Leo."

Bugsy: "Forever."

Leo: "Come again?"

Luciano: "Bone-Chomper Leo, for failing to keep my parents' promise to take care of my little brother Kale, I, Luciano, as the oldest living member of the Sniff-Tracker Wolf Pack, disown you as my pack godfather, and literal godfather. We're leaving the Bone-Chomper Pack."

Bugsy: "And I, Bugsy, as the second oldest living member of the Sniff-Tracker Wolf Pack, affirm this."

Capone: "Are you's kiddin'? We'll all have ta work twice as hard ta regain our standing in wolf society and maintain our territories without you's two."

The brothers glare at Capone in a way that makes him cringe, but the sincerity in their eyes is unmistakable.

Luciano: "Don't nobody try ta change our minds. You's all made us two do this."

Leo (to the pack): "If that's what ya's want—"

Bugsy: "—It is. And since you's no longer our godfather, dare's no penalty for interrupting you."

Luciano: "We stayed with you and dis pack, longer than we should have, because we were hoping it would make the lives of me, Bugsy, and Kale better. But only us two" (points to Bugsy then himself) "ever benefited. All the prestige, power, and reputation did was blind us from keeping our parents' vow ta put family before the pack. We failed them like you did, Leo. And now that Kale has the mark of shame, we can't see him ever again. Disowning you and leavin' dis pack is now our only shot at redemption."

Bugsy: "We let our one mistake ruin the life of our hermanito, we won't let the same mistake ruin us. Starting now and lastin' forever, call me Sniff-Tracker Bugsy."

Luciano: "And call me Sniff-Tracker Luciano."

Bugsy: "It's our duty ta keep da Sniff-Tracker name alive. I only see the death of that new vow with this pack."

Emmy: "You do realize what you's two're doing, right? If you leave us, you leave behind all the land, reputation, honor, and standin' you's have worked for all your life."

Bugsy: "I see it as a chance ta start over again. The sky's the limit now."

Leo: "Very well. The choice is yours," (turns to the others) "and we all accept it, right?"

The other Bone-Chompers sigh at the loss of their best deal-maker and turf-war inciter, but also know they can't do anything to change their minds, so they nod yes.

Luciano: "Farewell folks. We'll never meet again."

The Bone-Chompers don't try to stop the newly-christened Sniff-Trackers. They step aside and let them pass. When Luciano and Bugsy pass the last wolf, Leo can't help but ask one important question.

Leo: "Why guys? You know dat all I did was follow the codes of wolf society to the letter."

Luciano and Bugsy stop and turn, then say in unison: "It's what ma and dad would want, that's why."

They move out into the wilderness, and are never seen by the Bone-Chompers again.

The next evening at the opposite side of the forest—not to mention mood spectrum—no words can describe how great it feels for the hedgies to be back at their real home again. The log and the Pad are exactly how they remember it, and are currently full of party snacks and drinks that the hedgies had brought with the help of Martha's, Rainer's, Richie's, Brooke's, Jeff's, and Ladarius's families. The families of the original resistance members are present as well, making the area crowded with Phil the rabbit's family, Josiah the possum's family, and Andy the dove's family. But as the saying goes, the more the merrier, so both kids and adults are enjoying themselves.

Having had a full 24 hours to rest after their fellow forest animals had tended their wounds, RJ and Rick are socializing with their family and friends. Unlike Rick who can walk around, RJ is in a baby doll stroller since he still isn't in any condition to move on his own, especially with sore stitches in his wolf bite wounds. Still, he's having a great time listening to the others tell him how the battle unfolded. Some talk about the risks of the decision to free the former paisanos from their cages, but without a wolf pack to back them up they shouldn't be too much trouble anymore. And if they choose to leave these woods and go live in the Bone-Chompers' territory, then that will suit everyone else fine.

Some animals in particular have learned from the oppressive reign of the Bone-Chompers that any moment can be their last, which has put Hammy, Mary, Bernard, and De'Ausha in the mood to tell something to certain creatures they have had feelings for.

Scarlet: "Hoo boy, it's gonna be awkward walking around without any fur on the lower half of my body."

Hammy: "Not as weird as walking around without any fur on your body like I did for two months."

Scarlet: "Yikes...You just had to put that image in my head, didn't you?"

Hammy: "It makes you feel better, right?"

Scarlet (shrugs): "You could say that. But..." (Serious) "there's something that'll make me feel even better."

Hammy: "Ya-huh?"

Scarlet: "Hammy...Remember when I showed up at the cabin running away from Victor?"

Hammy: "Ya-huh."

Scarlet: "I really meant what I said, about not wanting to spend another moment without you."

Hammy: "Of course you did. That's the way I feel about you."

Scarlet decides to cut the subtlties and just make the plunge like Hammy would do.

Scarlet: "Hammy..."

Hammy: "Scarlet..."

Scarlet and Hammy in unison: "Will you marry me?"

The two squirrels' brows furrow at how they had the exact same idea. Then they decide they better get used to that, because they're going to be living with each other for the rest of their lives.

Scarlet and Hammy in unison: "Yes! I'll marry you!"

They wrap their arms around each other while kissing, which draws the cheers of many nearby animals who had overheard them.

Not among them is De'Ausha who is with Ladarius, Bernard who is with Richie's little sister Patricia, and Mary who is with Josiah's son Elroy. Each pair is also separate from each other, which is exactly what they want.

De'Ausha: "Ladarius...I've been meanin' to tell ya somethin' for a while. Especially after nearly gettin' killed for the past few months."

Ladarius: "Me too, De'Ausha."

De'Ausha: "I—Wait. On the count of three, say it aloud. Don't even think about it."

Ladarius: "Okay."

De'Ausha: "One, two, three—"

De'Ausha and Ladarius in unison: "I love you!"

The two gasp in joy while looking at each other with big smiles. Nothing else has to be said, so they fling their arms around each other and rapidly kiss repeatedly.

Closer to the pad, Bernard has been standing around Richie and Brooke, pretending to listen to their conversation of how much butt they kicked in the battle which the oposaccoon knows is an exaggeration. But that's not why he's near them.

He has been glancing at Richie's little sister, Patricia, a gray-furred raccoon with a brown mask and blue eyes, waiting for an opportunity to be alone with her. Bernard had meant it when he told Kale that he had a crush on her. It started when he played baseball with her two years ago, on the day he and Mary tried to make new friends after being picked on by Richie and Brooke. As he played, she didn't mind his being a hybrid, and he thought she had the sweetest laugh and prettiest smile when she saw him make a dramatic scene whenever he got tagged out. Bernard has been thankful for his friendship with Richie, because he has got to see Patricia more often. This was especially the case when Richie's family moved into the abandoned cabin at the summer camp. However, Bernard's timidity always prevented him from saying hello to her, and whenever she told him hello, he would faint. Although he missed out on the opportunity to have a conversation with her, before he passed out her giggle always filled him with joy.

But after seeing his dad, RJ, almost die from the wolf that had bitten him during the battle, Bernard has come to realize he has to take more risks to find happiness for himself, and to ensure happiness for others. That memory gives the opossacoon the motivation to walk around Richie and Brooke and shyly approach Patricia while she is busy listening to the speakers.

Bernard: "Um...H-h-hi, P-p-pat-t-tricia."

Patricia: "Hi, Bernard. Y'know, if it's too hard to pronounce, you can always call me 'Pat' for short."

Bernard: "Oh, I-I'd love y—uh, love to."

Patricia (giggles): "What were you doing in the big battle?"

Bernard: "I w-was, um, throwing boomerangs at the wolves. But when they got too close, mommy had me climb on her back and we retreated to the other animals behind us."

Patricia: "Did you hit any of those meanies?"

Bernard: "Y-yeah. At first they were good at dodging, but then when they slowed down to avoid the porcupine quill trap, I hit them a lot more. I guess all those baseball games we've played were good for something."

Patricia: "You're right. I was behind my brother Richie as my parents each used a policeman baton to hit the leader wolf. I had a can of mace and tried to hit him in the eyes, but then those other wolves came in and hit the animals beside me and I fell to the ground. Thankfully your family was close by and fended the wolves off. I should've seen you doing that, but didn't. Where were you?"

Bernard (embarrassed): "I, uh, hid in mommy's pouch for the rest of the fight...I was too scared to fight anymore, and if I played possum I would've gotten eaten."

Ever since his pause, Bernard spoke in a voice of resignation, knowing that his cowardice will cost him Patricia's affection.

Patricia: "I wish I had thought of hiding..."

Bernard's brow furrows at Patricia's words and tone, neither of which sound indignant in the slightest.

Bernard: "Huh? R-really?"

Patricia: "Yeah, I wouldn't have gotten buried by two animals that had been knocked over. One of them had very sharp hind claws and poked me hard. The other was so heavy that he knocked me out. But what does it matter as long as we won, eh?"

Bernard can't tell why, but his confidence gets a serious boost. He then concludes it's better not worrying about why and to just keep talking.

Bernard: "Yeah! So, um, if you're finished with talking about the battle, wanna see my favorite toys?"

Patricia: "I'd love to!"

Bernard: "Great! This way."

Bernard leads Patricia with a big smile on his face and feeling like his inner raccoon to seize the moment isn't as dormant in himself as he thought.

Nearer to the log, Mary is having equally good luck in talking to Elroy, a seven-year-old possum with brown eyes, gray fur on his body, white fur on his face, and ears that are colored white on the upper half and black and the lower half.

Mary had met Elroy playing baseball on the same day Bernard had met Patricia. Unlike Patricia, Elroy initially believed the opossacoon hybrids were freaky and gross, but had to keep his mouth shut or else he'd be chewed out by Ladarius who was leading the game. When Elroy saw Mary and Bernard playing possum whenever they got out, the pure possum didn't want to get upstaged by weird hybrids who were only half possum. So he started playing possum whenever he got out too, which caught Mary's eye and the two had an unwritten competition to see who could out play possum the other. Thanks to her grandfather and mother's teachings, Mary won, which made Elroy very jealous but at the same time intrigued, wanting to know more about the curious hybrid. He started out slow, always sitting or standing next to her as they played, then became bolder by adding his voice into conversations she had with others, then he got the courage to ask her to be his friend, which she accepted. Nowadays the two see each other regularly and have playing possum contests, but only when there's nothing better to do. The reason is because, oddly, the two don't like playing possum and prefer to be more aggressive when facing danger. Speaking of which, that's what they are talking about right now.

Mary: "I thought it was very brave how your dad helped create the first resistance, Elroy. He was also skillful enough to keep himself hidden from both the wolves and their paisano allies."

Elroy: "Well, not as brave as your dad is for facing a wolf without a weapon, even if they teamed up instead of fighting each other. He also stood up to all of us when my dad tried to banish that one wolf your family was taking care of."

Mary: "My daddy is a full-blooded raccoon, so it's only natural for him to take chances, even though sometimes he takes too many."

Elroy: "I like that about him, he reminds me of my mom and dad."

Mary: "And you remind me of my mom because you don't like playing possum. That's how she was until she met daddy. After her 'first big performance,' she started doing it more often, but still isn't as easy to frighten."

Elroy: "Yeah, well, playing possum doesn't work against scavengers. That's why my parents taught me to just play possum whenever I'm facing animals that only eat live food."

Wanting to move the conversation in a direction that will give her the chance to talk about her true feelings for Elroy, Mary takes Elroy's paw into her own, and, seeing how he doesn't look confused or uncomfortable, looks him in the eyes. When he gives her that same look, they know that they have some sort of connection. It could just turn out to be puppy love, but right now it feels real.

Mary: "I...always thought you were they bravest possum I ever met."

Elroy: "Really? Thanks...And you're the bravest girl I've ever met.

Mary: "Thank you, that means a lot to me. I've always been more like a raccoon than a possum, and was afraid you wouldn't like me if I was more like a possum than a raccoon."

Elroy: "Are you kidding? I'd like you either way."

For some unknown reason, Mary suddenly finds herself speechless, and so does Elroy.

Mary: "I...I..."

Elroy: "Uhhh..."

When the nearby boombox starts playing the song "Hey Mickey," Mary gets herself back together.

Mary: "Oh, this is my favorite song! Do you wanna dance?"

Elroy: "Sure! Even though it's a girly song."

Mary: "Oh yeah? I bet you'll like it a lot more when you finish dancing with me."

Elroy: "You're on. And if I don't, then you'll have to act like a real possum for three days."

Mary (shakes his paw): "Deal."

As the two run out into the dance floor, Rebecca, who had overheard them, giggles at the prospect of young love. She then sighs at how her love life is currently empty, and she wants it to be filled. But alas, Garrett is still mad with grief over the loss of his mate Lizzy, and he'll probably never want to remarry. She would have brooded some more, but her ears perk up when she hears someone speak.

Voice: "There she is! Hurry!"

Rebecca turns around and is surprised to see Garrett's parents, Glen and Amy, older brother Houston, his mate Lyra, and Uncle Jared (Amy's brother) coming toward her. Garrett is in a baby doll stroller being pushed by his family. Rebecca clasps her paws to her mouth while gasping at the sight of him. Garret looks catatonic: eyes wide open and glassy, head lolled to the side, and drooling out of his mouth.

Glen (who had spoken): "Are you Rebecca?"

Rebecca: "Yes sir."

Amy: "You heard what happened to our son, right?"

Rebecca (in remorse): "Yes ma'am...I can't imagine how horrible it was to lose the love of his life."

Lyra: "And you're the one who got Lizzy and him together. I bet you were devastated too."

Rebecca (nods slowly): "I was."

Jared: "We've tried everything to snap him out of his current state, but nothing's worked."

Amy (voice quivering): "I-I'm afraid he'll be stuck like this forever."

Rebecca: "But why bring him here?"

Houston: "My little brother has been mumbling something for the past two days. At first we thought it was more gibberish, until we realized it was someone's name. Your name."

Rebecca (points to herself): "Me? Are you sure?"

Garrett (in a sound like a mumble and moan combined): "B-e-e-e-e-e-e-cccaaaaaaaaa..."

Rebecca's eyes widen and she looks at Garrett's broken form.

Glen: "Please...Talk to him, see if you get him to come to his senses." (Fighting back tears) "It's the only option we have left."

Rebecca can't believe what she's hearing. Why was Garrett mumbling her name of all things? Was it because she meant something to him after all, even when he was married to Lizzy? And if so what?

Rebecca thinking: "Worry about that later. Right now, just help him and his family." (Out loud) "I'll try."

Rebecca walks up to Garrett and puts a paw on his shoulder.

Rebecca: "Garrett? It's me, Becca."

Garrett (mumble-moan): "B-e-e-e-e-e-ccaaaaaaa…"

Rebecca: "Do you remember me? The day you broke up with Lizzy I danced with you, and played video and board games with you. We then attached ten dollars to a fishing pole and went 'street fishing' for humans who tried to take it. You beat me in tennis, then we swam in a pool where we had a contest of who could outdo the other in diving board stunts. Then we watched that comic book movie about the red guy who kept talking to the camera and narrating throughout the whole flick..."

Garrett: "Uhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh…"

Amy: "Oh no, he's doing it again! Try harder, Rebecca!"

Houston: "Calm down, mom." (To Rebecca) "If Garrett goes 'Uhhh,' it means he's about to slip back into 'La-La Land.' We can't let that happen, not after making so much progress."

Rebecca thoughts are frenzied with all the pressure that's on her now. She has to do something to save Garrett's mind, or he'll be like this permanently. If she takes too long to think about the right words to say, it might be too late. But are words even the proper solution? She then decides words can't help him, and has something more drastic in mind.

Rebecca (to Garret's family): "Hold the stroller, make sure it doesn't move. And please, don't hate me for this."

With the need to save their family member driving their minds, Garrett's family obeys and holds the stroller with all their strength. They're just in time to stop it from moving—

—As Rebecca climbs into it and starts making out with Garrett. She remembers how she saw Lizzy and Garrett vigorously kissing, hugging, and groping each other on the day her heart was broken at the sight, and now does the same body, paw, and lip motions to him. The reason is because she remembers how happy Garrett was to be with Lizzy that day, and believes repeating that process will jog his memory. But his family doesn't take too kindly to her actions.

Houston: "What are you DOING?!"

Glen: "My son just lost his mate and you're trying to smooch in to take him?!"

Glen is about to yank Rebecca off of Garrett when he suddenly responds.

Garrett: "Rrrrrrr-b-e-e-e-e-ecccaaaaaa..."

Glen (shocked): "He...said more of her name..." (To Rebecca) "Keep doing what you're doing."

Rebecca stops kissing Garrett, stands up in the stroller, and puts her chest against his face.

Rebecca: "Breathe me in, Garrett. Know my scent."

Rebecca leans into him harder, almost smothering him, but that's what causes him to start taking in bigger whiffs of her.

Garrett: "Rr-e-e-e-b-e-e-eccaa..."

Amy: "Mother Mercy, he's not slurring as much!"

Rebecca eases her tight hold on Garrett and then pulls him back into her chest more gently, in a hug. Her heart is pounding now, but that's good because it means she can execute her next step.

Rebecca: "Feel it, Garrett...Feel my heartbeat...This heart beats for you...My heart beats for you."

Garrett: "H-h-h-earrrrt...Beeeaaattt."

Jared: "Oh my gosh, you're doing it, Rebecca!"

Although Rebecca is happy that what she's doing is working, even she is icked out at what she has to do next. But so far, her revival using the senses is working, the more drastic the better effect it has. She can't stop now.

Rebecca pulls her chest away from Garrett again, uses her right paw to open his mouth wide (pulling down at the chin) and then places and slides her left arm across his tongue.

Rebecca: "Taste me, Garrett."

Garrett: "Mmmmmmmmm..."

Rebecca takes Garrett's right arm and slides it across his tongue.

Rebecca: "Now taste yourself."

Garrett: "Taaaaaaassssteeee."

Rebecca lets Garrett's right arm hang to the side, takes his left arm, and presses it hard against his nose.

Rebecca: "Smell yourself, Garrett."

Garrett: "Sssssssmelllllll."

Rebecca takes his left paw and places it on his heart.

Rebecca: "Feel yourself, Garrett. Feel your heartbeat. It beats for you...Just as mine beats for you."

Garrett: "F-f-f-f-f-eeeellll...Buh, buh, buh, buh, buhhh."

Amy: "We're losing him again!"

Garrett: "B-e-e-eccaaaaa."

Houston: "No we're not! It's working!"

Rebecca buries her chest in Garrett's face again.

Rebecca: "Whose scent are you smelling?"

Garrett: "B-e-e-eccaaaaaa'ssss..."

Rebecca opens Garrett's mouth and strokes her arm across his tongue again.

Rebecca: "Who are you tasting?"

Garrett: "Rrrre-b-e-e-ecccaaa."

Glen: "It's gonna work!"

Rebecca gently hugs her chest against his face again.

Rebecca: "Whose heartbeat are you feeling, Garrett?"

Garrett: "Ree-b-e-ecaaaa's..."

Rebecca: "That's right. My heartbeat. My heart beats for you..."

Garrett: "Ree-b...ecca'ssss...H-h-earrrt b-e-eat."

Rebecca: "Listen to my voice...Hear it...Hear the voice that comes from my heart...The heart that beats for you."

Garrett: "Reeebeeccaa's v-v-v-ooiccccce...H-hearrrt...b-e-e-eatsss...F-f-for. Y-y-yooouuu."

Lyra (whispering): "C'mon, c'mon!"

Rebecca (whispering to Garrett's family): "Lay us on the ground."

The raccoons nod and slowly tilt back the stroller until Rebecca is now laying on top of Garrett. Ignoring the butterflies in her stomach, given the awkward position they're in, Rebecca prays that her next and final step will succeed. She makes sure to open his mouth, takes a deep breath, and then executes her move.

Rebecca: "Garrett...Follow my voice...Follow my heartbeat...Follow my scent...Follow my taste..."

As she speaks, she slowly worms her way high up his body, and stops when her chest is now pressing against his eyes.

Rebecca: "Garrett...Whose voice did you hear?"

Garrett: "R-r-ee-b-e-eca."

Rebecca: "Whose heartbeat did you feel?"

Garrett: "R-r-eb-eccaa'sss."

Rebecca: "Whose scent did you smell?"

Garrett: "Re-b-e-eccaa'ss."

Rebecca: "Who did you taste?"

Garrett: "Re-b-e-c-c-a."

Rebecca: "Follow the sound of my voice...Follow my scent...Follow the feel of my heartbeat...Follow my taste..."

Garrett: "F-f-o-llow...Rebe-cca."

Garrett's family members are either holding their breath, gripping their sides, or nibbling their nails.

Rebecca (whispering to Garrett's family): "Pull me up slowly."

Glen and Jared nod, make their way over to Rebecca, grab her waist and chest, and slowly pull her up. Thinking she will have something else to say, Garret's other family members keep their eyes on her as she's lifted up. She doesn't say anything, but their hearts flutter when they see her smile. They look back at Garrett who it sitting up, his eyes are no longer glassy, and he looks like he just awoke from a very long nap. He still looks confused, however, so no one celebrates just yet.

Garrett: "Rebecca...? Where am I?"

Rebecca smiles, runs over to him, and hugs him tight.

Rebecca: "You're back, Garrett! You're home again!"

As soon as Garrett's family yells, they discover that everyone at the party has been watching silently, and now those voices join in too. Garret's parents, brother, sister-in-law, and uncle rush in to make Rebecca's embrace a group hug.

Glen: "You saved our son, Rebecca!"

Amy: "Thank you, thank you, thank yooouuuu!"

Garrett: "Saved me? From what?"

Jared: "It's a long story, Garrett."

Houston: "But let's not worry about that right now, little bro!"

Lyra: "Just let us give you the biggest hug you'll ever get!"

The onlookers clap. Stella and Tiger look at each other with a special twinkle in their eye. They, like Rebecca, know that she will have a second chance with Garrett once everything is properly explained.

Elsewhere among the crowd is Verne, who leans over to RJ and says, "Looks like your title as the family's 'head doctor' will be challenged, RJ."

RJ: "Like heck it is. Healing mental wounds is a whole different ballgame from healing physical wounds."

Sarah (in humor): "Is someone jealous of their little sister?"

RJ: "Absolutely not."

Rogan (in humor): "Then why are you blushing, RJ?"

The remark only makes RJ redden more.

RJ: "I-I..."

"Uhhhhhhnnnnnnn!"

Everyone turns their heads to the direction of the loud groan, and gasps. Unfortunately, RJ's stroller isn't facing in the proper direction.

RJ: "Hey! Someone move me! I can't see!"

Verne turns RJ around and the raccoon joins in staring at the owner of the groan.

It's none other than Kale whose entire body from head to toe looks like it's been run over by every racer at a NASCAR speedway. He staggers forward for two more steps, then collapses on the ground.

The hedgies rush over to him and immediately start giving him first aid.

Glen: "Hold on. Why're you helping that fiend!"

Amy: "Yeah! He's the one who killed our daughter-in-law!"

Luby (scoffs): "Look at him! How can any of you be cruel enough not to help him?!"

Kale looks up at Amy and says, "Go on...Hate me...I desoive it...Everyone hates me now...'Specially my pack..."

Just as Velma steps behind Kale's hindquarters to put a bandage on the back of his left hindleg, she notices something that makes her scream.

Verne: "What is it, Velma?!"

Velma (while pointing): "Look! His whole tail is gone!"

The hedgies run (and RJ is taken) over, where they see the wound that looks as if the wolf's tail had been amputated by an expert surgeon.

Kale: "It's da...mark of shame. Dee biggest punishment a wolf can get...Reserved only for those who committed the greatest crimes...against a pack, the wolf species, and Nature itself."

After being brought to Kale's front, and reading the last page first, RJ remarks in realization, "You sided with me in the battle..."

Kale: "They beat me up for causin' da battle that they lost...I told 'em how I really felt about bein' a wolf and what I thought of them. Den they gave me a choice: pick you's or them. I chose you's. In doing so, I betrayed my pack, the codes of wolf society, the wolf species, and Nature's law of predator and prey...I'm banished forever from my pack, and all of wolf society...If a wolf ever sees me, it'll be dare obligation as a wolf ta kill me. Even if my own brothers see me."

The listeners can't believe that wolves would be so cruel to one of their own to establish that kind of punishment in the first place. But at the same time, they also know everything Kale has said is true, at how he violated everything wolves and predators stand for.

Kale: "I've got nothin' now...No home, no friends, no family, and no love...I am nothin' now, not'a wolf, not'a predator, just a disgrace...But you're all I have left...I didn't know where else ta go or what else ta do..."

Even those who hate Kale for killing their loved ones feel pity for the wolf. Attacking him is the last thing they want now. Right now, they want answers.

Verne: "Why...? Why did you choose to be with us instead of your pack, your literal godfather, and your own brothers?"

Kale: "Because I wanted ta be free...like all'uv you's. I didn't wanna spend anoth'a second with my pack and their lies, bein' a slave to the codes of wolf society. I wanted ta live with you's. Ta be a part of your family. Ta be loved again. Ta have real friends. Ta be able to play and do things any 15-year-old should do. Because...I...I love all of you."

The hedgies gasp, what prey animals wouldn't after hearing that a wolf loves them? They knew that Kale really, really liked them and depended on their support. But love? That takes things to a whole new level.

RJ: "You...love us?"

Kale: "Because you's loved me first...Not even my parents loved me as much as you's did...And I'm gonna return the favor." (To the onlookers) "I'm gonna make amends ta all'uv you's who I've wronged. I promise, from now on, ta only eat packaged meat; it tastes betta dan live meat anyway. And I promise ta protect you's homes from other predators..." (Shouting as loud as he can) "You hear me, world! I'm givin' up my predator ways, and am gonna spend the rest of my life helpin' prey animals! That's what makes me happy now!"

(Looks at the crowd and speaks normally) "And for those whose lives I have personally destroyed in some form or another—Ladarius's folks, Garrett and his family, Mark and his family, Brooke and her family—I know that the debt I owe you is impossible to pay off...But I'm gonna die tryin' to pay it off. That—I—Promise...If any of you's still hate me, then too bad. I'm a changed wolf now, and I'm never goin' back ta bein' the way I was before."

The other animals in the area look at each other, silently mulling over what Kale has just said. Then, Jordan steps forward and looks at Kale, the canine's and mustelid's eyes locking from 20 feet away.

Jordan: "Just keep yo promise, kid, and we be cool."

Erin: "Us too."

Mack: "Same here."

Glen: "We need more time, but I guess that's better than a no."

Kale's eyes start watering in happiness. It's the best start given the circumstances, and given what he owes each of these families. Their willingness to accept him let's him know there is hope for him yet. That maybe, he isn't going to Heck after all.

Wanting to capitalize on the lightened mood, while also making Kale's acceptance into the forest population of prey animals official, RJ motions for Rick and Ozzie to push him forward next to Kale so he is facing the crowd.

RJ: "Kale, my family, and everyone else present right here...it's time for us all to take a vow of change (1)." (Looks at Kale) "What that means is, from this moment on every voice that told you 'you can't' is silenced (1). Every reason that tells you things will never change, disappears (1). And the guy you were before this moment, that guy's time is over (1). Now it's your turn." (1)

Feeling much stronger now thanks to the hedgies' first aid and his lifted spirits, Kale gets up and walks so that he is in front of everyone.

Kale: "Ya know what I've noticed in my 15 years of life? Nobody ever listens to a (1) wolf. Everybody (1) takes one look at me and thinks I should be (1) an evil monster who cares nothin' 'bout prey animals' lives. They don't see the wars (1) I, as a wolf, fight every single day (1), with myself more dan oth'as. But startin' now, my war (1) with prey animals and myself ta follow da codes of wolf society, and to be a predator who kills prey, ends. And I will not die (1) like a dog, or a wolf. I will die as an animal: free and happy. And I will not tolerate abuse from anyone." (1)

The prey animals clap, but Kale quickly holds up his paw to make them get quiet again.

Kale: "Ever since my parents died I've always felt like I've had no home (1). I always thought dat if I learn (1) ta like prey dat I would be laughed at (1), beaten, and rejected. And I was right (1). But I don't hear dat laughter anymore (1), or feel dat beat down, or dat rejection." (Turns to the hedgies) "Instead I'm greeted by a couple'a friends who were a group of prey animals who offered ta help me out (1), even when I did everything ta drive 'em away. And (1) finally, it hits me (1). RJ, you crazy raccoon from four months ago, are dee only guy dat made me think of hope (1). Spending more time with all of you's, seeing that there's more ta life dan (1) being a predator, I began ta feel better (1). I walk inta ya's territory and all da problems in life are not so important anymore (1). Now, I know for sure dat I am home." (1)

RJ: "Yes, you are." (1)

With that, the celebration recommences, grander than ever before. It is more than a celebration of a victory over oppression, confessing true feelings, healing the injured, and accepting someone into their home and hearts. It is a celebration of the trails of life that everyone went through.

Kale is allowed to choose whatever song he wanted to serve as his "Welcome to the Forest" Song. After five minutes of searching, he found one that fits his life perfectly; for his past, present, and future. He hits the play button and everyone dances, sings, or chills out to the sound of "Awake and Alive."

Note: "Awake and Alive" is a song copyright by the band Skillet and their album Awake. I changed it from Linkin Park's "New Divide" because this new song simply fits better.

I'm at war with the world and they,
Try to pull me into the dark
I struggle to find my faith
As I'm slippin' from your arms

It's getting harder to stay awake
And my strength is fading fast
You breathe into me, at last

I'm awake, I'm alive
Now I know what I believe inside
Now, it's my time
I'll do what I want, 'cuz this is my life

Here (right here), right now (right now)
I'll stand my ground and never back down
I know what I believe inside
I'm awake and I'm alive

Having heard the gist of the song, which now goes into a music interlude, the rest of the animals can contemplate about it. Although the lyrics are light-mooded, they're sung aggressively like someone is beating the words into the listener. But when listened to while keeping in mind the things that have happened to Kale for the past four months, there is a sense of hope and brightness for the future that lies ahead.

Not to mention, he is a wolf, so having something aggressive suits his personality...And everyone now accepts him for that.

I'm at war with the world 'cuz I,
Ain't never gonna sell my soul
I've already made up my mind
No matter what I can't be bought or sold

When my faith is getting weak
And I feel like giving in
You breathe into me, again

I'm awake, I'm alive
Now I know what I believe inside
Now, it's my time
I'll do what I want, 'cuz this is my life

Here (right here), right now (right now)
I'll stand my ground and never back down
I know what I believe inside
I'm awake and I'm alive

Waking up waking up
Waking up waking up
Waking up waking up
Waking up waking up

In the dark,
I can feel you in my sleep
In your arms I feel you breathe into me
Forever hold this heart that I will give to you
Forever I will live for you

Everyone takes time to smile in Kale's direction during the next music interlude as they find themselves surprised but grateful at the wolf's good taste in music. This song isn't just to describe what he's been through ever since he came into this section of the forest, it's to describe what everybody has been through since he entered this territory.

Having memorized the main chorus by now, not a single voice is silent when the song continues its final measures.

I'm awake, I'm alive
Now I know what I believe inside
Now, it's my time
I'll do what I want, 'cuz this is my life

Here (right here), right now (right now)
I'll stand my ground and never back down
I know what I believe inside
I'm awake and I'm alive

Waking up waking up
Waking up waking up
Waking up waking up
Waking up waking up

As the song ends all the animals reflect on their lives for the past four unforgettable months. In the past four months, everyone has been through good times and bad times. Everyone has experienced heartbreak and heartwarming. Everyone's beliefs on the laws and lives of predators and prey have been changed.

And most of all, everyone learned that sometimes, in the most extreme circumstances, you can choose your family.

End

Once again, Happy Holidays (at the time of this posting on 12/21/2018)! I hope you enjoyed the story. And expect to see Kale in my future OTH stories ;)

However, I will be enjoying the Holiday season starting now, and come January I will be devoting all of my time, attention, and energy to finding a full-time job with benefits. When that happens, I may not have the time to update stories for a VERY long time.

But I hope I have left you on a high note, and will always be around enjoying reading other OTH stories!

Bye-bye!