Lessons of Life

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The Lessons of Life

Chapter 3

Discovery

Dunn tried to speak only to be quieted by the soft kiss on the darkening nose. No more talking, pup, O.K.? We both need to cuddle and forget this day, for right now, you hear me Emphasizing the statement. He squeezes Pen tighter to his chest, forcing the pup's breath as he tries to inhale.

"O.K.," sighed the haggard otter while they headed down to the hall to their bedroom. "You're O.K. now, aren't you, pup?" (cradling Pen in his arm's like a fragile heirloom) I'm sorry I lost it so severely back there. I could not even think what I would do if anything ever happened to you! (brooding toothy smile creeping across his lips and looking down into those bloodshot green eyes)

"I'm O.K., Dunn, I promise; it hurts a lot, though..... think my tail will be numb for a week!?" "I'm so sorry that happened to your pup. They'll never hurt you again, and that nag of your mothers will not soon forget his chucked nose. , No, let's not go there now. I will make sure that that. "Oh, Never-mind!" You're safe!.... that's the only thing that matters to me, pup." (searching those deep emerald green eyes with yearning and disgrace at failing his little otter. He had fallen this angel in his arms once, a pledge broken that he will make sure is paid for dearly!)

Their worlds shattered only to reform all at the exact moment, only each other to remind them of the once happy home. He was looking around, finding memories tattered at every glance. So many times in his life, Dunn found happiness in Joseph's slightest touch, but that's gone now. Never in his 35 years of life had his will so firmly been hardened. Now everything seems to be a struggle to get through the next minute.

"Dunn, why doesn't my mom love me?"

This question alone was more than the little otter could bear. Nobody had ever given Pen a reason not to trust them on first approach like his mother and her assorted flavor of the minute. His heart breaks at the simple cruelty his mother shows him at every pass of contact.

"Pen, my love, you know your mother will never be happy no matter what we do! It's not that she hates you, pup; she just always wants more than she has! There isn't anything that either you or I can change. Now let's stop this depressing talking and get into bed. We need to cuddle and forget the world, O.K......? (hating himself for the lies that now have passed his lips, only leaving the tepid acid of disdain)

Yes, that woman hated this lovely otter with every ounce of fat in her body. She saw the birth of Pen as a means to money that would never be hers. Over the years, that mistake of an egg donor was always cooking up something or another to get Joseph to fund this or that. `Curse his heart for never saying NO to her out of some misguided sense of obligation.'

(laying down on the sheets and pulling Pen into his chest fur)

"Rest now, pup, and nobody will get in here! Even if they trust me, they must get through this mean old Kodiak before I let them lay a hand on you again. Stop all this questioning and hold me, pup, O.K......?"

"But why do they all want money Dunn... if that's all so..... important to them, then let them have it? I don't care anymore. "Dad's gone!!!..."........They don't care about any of us so...... If that is all they want, give it to them, and maybe they will never bother us again!...... Right???"

"No, my love, that isn't how it works, but enough of this `pup,' O.K... we both have had a hard day, and I don't know about you, but I really can use a nap?"

Secretly his heart was breaking because as simple as it sounded to his lovely otter, the last thing Dunn ever wanted to do was open that door! No, `Hell NO' if you give the mongrels money, all it will do is wet their appetites. They'd be like a pack of rabid Lenor's {Len-Or~s} on a fresh kill. Nothing would be safe!!!

"Now, pup, enough talking about what we can't do a thing about. Let's just cuddle. We'll have plenty of time to deal with those people and your egg donor of a mother later. Now hush and give.Mmmm... kiss...."

(Leaning down ever so slowly, Pen just brushes the big black nose of his protector with an angel's kiss. Those supple lips just brushed the skin of his sensitive slippery nose, causing every nerve ending to explode with utter delight at their joining.)

"You're going to do something, aren't you, Dunn?.......... I know that look on your face because I have seen you give it to Dad every time he did something you didn't like! (sheepish smile creeping along those amber furry pink lips)

The simple mention of Joseph ripped that flesh wound open again. Although hiding it behind his eyes with every ounce of will, the fear of it spreading back to that exquisite otter is just too much to bear for the massive beast. No, he would not cause this being of hope teasing his nose with the sweetest torment of life. He would do what so ever it took to ensure that his vision of the world was his for as long as he could keep it that way.

"Hush up, pup, and get some sleep..."

That thick tongue of Dunn's slipped his mouth to lick the sensitive pinkish nose of the now squirming otter.

"New.....Stop that! You know I hate it when you lick me like that...."

Pen all but put on the best show of his life. He could never get enough of Dunn's attention, especially as of late. It seems that his very touch made his heart flutter. Ever since that morning when he last had the dream, he'd been like this. But he was not complaining about it other than putting on the pretense of a protest only to fall giggling and usually causing some bruises from his out-of-control tail.

"STOP.... Hmph...... Hey..... you need to watch THIS.. (grabbing the substantial flailing amber lined tail with his right paw) ..before you make sure that I can never have any more cub's!" (shifting below the now franticly squirming otter to protect his tenders from the still mobile tail)

He was mocking attention, and anger plastered across the grinning muzzle of his. Dunn could not stop the emotional movements of the now squealing otter as he tried to slip away from his grasp. It was the only moment in the immensely draining day reminiscent of before. The two lovingly plaid together, forgetting their sorrow for those briefest of moments, all the traumas melted away as they lovingly tussled and shared each other's undivided attention.

"Why would you want any more cubs when you have me....?" (as if to emphasize the question, Pen let the prehensile tip of his tail graze the edge up Dun's inner thigh)

"HEY.... Just because I have everything I ever will need in you, my dear pup, doesn't mean I will not want to have a little cub brother for you!"

Forcing a mock look of concern across his face, Dunn tried to make slight of the scrape of that frantic otter tail too close to his sensitive balls. "No,"... it's not the pain or any pain that could ever come from the reason for living that he could endure. Not discounting that so much of his world has been shaken to its core over the last eight days. The plain truth is, no matter the circumstances of how Pen came to be a part of Joseph's and his life; he is everything to the massive Kodiak. There is only one reason to be in this world now: laughing with true love and squirming in front of him like a moray out of water.

"Now you know you love it as much as I do, you big mean bear..... Now Hold still......."

"HEY.... That's not funny, you runt, so help me..... Nooooo... don't do that, No fair!..."

"See now, if you would just have cuddled with me, you wouldn't be in this situation now, would you?"

Pouting like a whipped pup, Pen is pinned with a mighty paw to the bed, trying to weasel out of the precarious position. The entire while, Dunn is dragging his claws over the tender flesh of his armpit, forcing mad giggling from the now-winded otter.

"O.K... Okk, I will give it now. I GIVE!!!!!!"

Slowly as they regained their composure, though, Pen was gasping and murmuring heavily with joy at the brief distraction from the day's trifles. The panting otter is pulled into the gentle heaving chest of the bear as he stifles the urge to eat the vibrant little being that can so brighten even the darkest of life's pains.

"Now..... stop all this and settle down, pup, or so help me, I will roll this big old body of mine over and squish YOU!"

Though Dunn's right paw was sneaking up to deliver an ever-so-crushing blow of hugs to the gasping otter, he had to ensure that he settled down. It had been a heart-wrenching day, only compounded by the unforgivable act of that hunk of rotting flesh of a draft horse. Blood rushed to his ears, just reliving the sight of Pen upended by his tail, the substantial red weld still visible on his face reminding him of his failure in his pledge.

"Now sleep pup..... I'm tired, and we could spend some quiet time with each other!"

He was leaning his muzzle down and placing the softest kisses on Pen's nose, followed by the brisk lick of his wide tongue up the startled otter's muzzle to his left ear. Oh, how that taste alone could sustain the bear as stars once again exploded in his eyes from the unbelievable taste of his silky fir.

"Ok... meeeenny..... And stop licking me. I'm not a lollypop, you weird mean old bear!"

(Laughing) "Yes, you sure are and the best one in the world to this `MEAN OLD BEAR!!!!"

With that statement, they finally settled into each other's arms through the strong arms encasing. Dunn could break an oak tree in half if the owner so wished. Ever since the genetic enhancements that Joseph gave him five years ago, Dunn was truly more in line with the progenitor of his appearance than the human form masked by it. Yes, he still possessed the human mind and all that it entailed, but his body and outwardly appearance much resembled that of the Kodiak he was born of.

"Dunn.... is it.... always going to hurt this much without a dad?" (Slowly looking up into the deep brown eyes)

"I don't know, pup... I don't know! We both miss him so much, and I can only say that as long as you're with me, I'll always have the best part of him in my arms."

"I Love you, Dunn....."

With that, the little otter just nuzzled his face into the furry golden chest below him, the day had indeed been taxing on the little tired pup, and without much effort, he relaxed into the warm embrace. Slowly the two drifted into a fitful sleep.

Pen relaxed as his youthful mind erased the day's trauma finding his way to sleep. Dunn, though, was lost in the feeling of the gentle movements of the loving otter on his chest, although his mind kept revisiting the consequences that were now about to be forthcoming. For if he knew that Female at all, he knew she would play this up to the hilt to extort control over the affairs of this loving otter she so unjustly felt was hers.

Suddenly waking from the fitful dream of late, they had removed any rest his sleep had been giving him. Dunn slowly realized that it was not the dream of making that annoying noise (it was the coms). With a quick check to his chest only to relax (the still sleeping otter), Pen's curled up and rested his demure head on his solid shoulder, sound asleep. Again the chimes of the com's break the quiet of the room. The sound only grates the bear's sleep-muddled mind into the waking world altogether, as whoever this is had better have one hell of a reason for disturbing them like this! Only a few individuals had the actual com address to the house, so something must be happening.

"ANSWER".... "Voice only."

Dunn's voice was only a whisper in an attempt to take the call without waking the sleeping pup on his chest.

"Mr. Panthar?"

The all too recognizable voice of Eufrin {Eu'-fre-in}, his assistant, was all too clear at the simple statement. "What is it, Eufrin? You know this is neither the time nor place to call me about work with what today is? YOU KNOW THAT!"

All but breaking the whisper he was trying to maintain. Though this call was neither wanted nor needed, anything to do with the company could wait. "I am sure you understand S.I.R.' that it's my Job' to make sure that you're kept up to date with all developments as you have instructed me Sir...?!!!"

The voice of Eufrin cracked audibly, betraying the stress he now felt. Yes, the Kodiak always seemed to have a way of cutting him to the quick with just a raised word or a glace, but this particular information was not something the young mammal wanted to be the bearer of. Cringing at the blank screen, he steeled his nerves with a rather loud exhale as he continued.

"Sir, we have a small problem with Ms. Relonlds!......"

Dunn's chest constricted at the simple mention of the egg donor's name, again cracking the peace of his sanctum. `Oh, this is not going to be good at all now. His mind all but preceded the statements that are sure to enrage him. With a heavy sigh, Dunn let the reality of the day's actions pass over his eyes again, only to cringe at the realization. His actions this morning were most likely to blame.

"Just what is this small problem E.U.R.F.R.I.N.??"

"NO...! Hold on, Eufrin. I need to switch coms!"

"STANDBY" (with that, the unit muted the line)

Dunn gently slipped Pen off his chest onto the cool sheets of the bed, adjusting the airflow for the sleeping otter as he always seemed hot-blooded (he didn't need him waking up) and slowly slipping his girth from the bed, attempting to keep the beautiful amber/silver otter in his slumber for as long as he could. Dunn exited the bedroom and made the quick trip to the office to take the call in person.

"Accept call..... Visual"

With those words spoken, the terror-stricken face of the scared gray wolf came into view of the display, his disheveled fur looking like its usual mass of tangles. `No doubt from his stressed condition.' Steel reflective eyes downcast away from the screen like a child about to get scolded for something they knew they should never have done.

"S...ir.... I didn't mean to disturb you, but something has come up, and I know you would be very upset if I didn't inform you right away!" (shaking voice cracking with every other word)

For such an impressive-looking Lupine, Eufrin was always fearful of Dunn. Even though the Kodiak was ominous in his appearance, he had never given the now visibly shaking wolf a single reason ever to think he was in harm's way, to his knowledge.

With an audible pensive sigh, "What is going on now, Eufrin...? If it was unimportant, you would not call me on the day I laid Joseph to rest, so spit it out."

`Here it comes' rushes across his brain. No, that fat otter is up to something, and to have his assistant in such a state, can't be good. No doubt she's cooked something up this time to rival even the most extreme actions she has taken.

"Sir... Umm...."

"JUST SPIT IT OUT EUFRIN!!!"(voice cracking with his irritations)

"Well, Sir... You see. I received a call from Central Security about 20 minutes ago...."

Glancing at the time stamp (14:32 May 19, 2138), Dunn's face contorted with a vicious snarl at the mention of central; yep, that bitch had started something big this time if they were calling. No matter how often she did something like this, it never failed to enrage him of her willingness to use Pen as a poker chip in her games.

"What did they want?" (his face is flat and even in sharp contrast to the look of hate on his muzzle.)

"Well, Sir, they have inquired as to your location! They have filed a complaint of attempted murder by Ms. Renolds! They're asking that you turn yourself in as soon as possible, `S.I.R.,' because the Gentlemen registered as the victim is still in surgery. It seems you shattered most of his face in an unprovoked altercation during the wake, so they say?! They stated they have at least 50 solid witnesses to the incident, Sir..."

With that statement alone, every hair on Dunn's body stood on end. He was baring his teeth in a threatening snarl.

"(Yes, that `BITCH' had dared, and now she will pay....) Did she happen to include in that statement of hers the facts that she was committing an act of grand larceny precipitating my ACTIONS???"

"Umm... No, Sir, the statement reads that your unprovoked actions assaulted Mr. Tellez without provocation. Though it does mention that she was in the course of disciplining Mr. Panthar's actions for disturbing a guest...."

"No, that is not what happened at all, and that bitch will pay for this dearly. Here is what I want you to do..."

Grabbing the document from the desk in front of him, still sealed in its plastic bag. Struggling with his composure to not show too much rage or emotion at all as this had to be done just right, or Diana could get away with this farce.

"What I have here is the document that she was in the process of intimidating young Mr. Panthar into signing, under the force of Duress, I would add!!! In fear for his safety!!! I also have the Holographic recordings' of this act and everything regarding this document' and its detailed handling since the incident. I want you to Call Central; have them dispatch a certified courier to the house to retrieve this (shaking the bag to stick his point) and the copies of the videos. They are' to be here in an hour, please, as we now have to take steps to prevent that FEMALE' from getting away with this abuse of the system."

Dunn is forcing his anger down as this video must now be shown to support his earlier actions. No, this was not something that he would allow to happen. It's not that it mattered, as he was well within his rights to protect his little pup. The thought of that `Egg donor' pulling this on the same day they laid Joseph in his grave allowed Dunn to ponder having her removed from the earth to a not-so-pleasant death in the hard vacuum of space.

"Sir... what should I tell Central about you coming in to face the charges?

Eufrin is shaking in fear for being the bearer of the bad news and firsthand witness to the cold hatred he now feels from his boss for doing his job. He never wanted to get Dunn this angry, but he had to do this.

"FINE... Tell Central to send a detective instead of the carrier, and I will deal with them when they get here!"

(body going slack in sheer terror)Eufrin had uncontrollably soiled himself at the ferocious reaction of his boss! Now he realized (pubic fur now soaked with a little bit of his urine), to his dismay, it was caused by the sheer hatred playing across the agitated bear's face, his boss's eyes glowing red at being forced to confront the issue in this manner.

"Eufrin.... Calm down, and I'm not angry at you!"

Dunn, looking at the reflection of himself in the picture of `Joe & Pen' on the beach last summer (sitting on the corner of his desk), revealing to his eye the ominous look about his face and body. Oh, how sometimes the enhancements made him look like the Kodiak he was born of.

"Eufrin.... I'm sorry I scared you like this! But it's not directed at you, my friend!' I am angry with THEM! You see, Ms. Renolds and Mr. Tellez attempted to have Pentanthin sing a Durable Power of Attorney,' when he refused, Mr. Tellez assaulted Pentanthin!!!! Mr. Tellez was physically torturing him to force his signature on the documents when I was able to get to Pen. I was not even thinking about anything other than protecting him when this incident occurred. You can ask Mr. Talbit from Geonocis Corp to back this up! Though he may not know what he witnessed? As I am sure he will state, my reaction was that `I went crazy throwing people out of my way to get outside.' But again, all this is recorded on the surveillance system from this morning! Now calm down and get yourself in a presentable shape. I need you over here as soon as you can get here, O.K.?"

"Yes, Sir... Give me about 20 Minutes, and I will be there, Sir...."

"Eufrin, make sure you use the secure lines to do this. God knows if that Female has something else up her sleeve, so don't trust anybody. If you have to use the coms in my office, do so! I know there are no taps on it! With me being out of the office as of late, I do not trust anybody but you at this point, O.K.?"

"Sir, I will do as instructed and see you in around 20 minutes!"

"Fine... fine.... Yes .. I'll see you in a few, now let me get going. I have to make sure Pen's O.K. as he was quite disturbed by the assault of Mr. Tellez!!"

The com channel was severed, leaving a somewhat shaken wolf in shock.

"Why does he always scare the hell out of me like that? I know `I' didn't do anything.... I wouldn't say I like it when he gets upset like that. (deep exhale) I want him to keep this job and, like, My work....."

He was falling back into his chair whit distress across his shaking face and body.

"This is the third time it's happened!.... just from talking with him on the com's....( Thank God)!"

Eufrin slowly stood behind his desk to reveal the now prevalent dark patch in his murky trousers. It never failed to shame the wolf that he would cower and lose bodily control due to the `Behemoths' seldom manifestations of anger. Ever since he witnessed firsthand that bear cleft the steel door from the lab concrete wall when Joseph was hurt!

He's given him the widest of berths achievable!!!

"It's my job to make sure that everything he asks of me is completed, but that bear could be very dangerous if you got on his bad side!" (admonishing himself with fear running through his distressed mind and playing across his face for the world to see)

Quickly he made his way to the private bathroom to compose himself. His repulsion displayed mockingly upon his face as he glanced at the mirrored wall. (ear twitching uncontrollably) Eufrin quickly removed his trousers with little fanfare and changed into the second set of clothes he kept just for this `Problem.' No matter what that bear did, he would never drive him away. He loved working for him no matter the price!

After a hurried yet well-ostracized exhibition in the bathroom, Eufrin emerged with the now clean appearance he wanted to present. Quickly he entered Dunn's office, and, sitting at his desk, he started his calls. (little time remained to complete his tasks if he was to get over to the house in time)

"Central Security Services...... Connect" (clearing his face of all expression and settling himself.)

"Standby"

(Now, just speak to the detective and get moving. You still have another call to make!)

"Central Security...this is Captain Selone {Sel-O-Ne'}... What can I do for you?"

The blue fox answered with an emotionless expression and flat voice. Nothing about the appearance of this fur could even give a sense of compassion, although most would expect something different when contacting Central for help.

"I need to speak with a detective in regard to the charges filed against Mr. Panthar this afternoon!"

"Hold on, please... I will connect you to the investigating officer."

The coms display shifts from the enigmatic officer to the central logo display. In the absence of the emotionless fox, the rather ornate crescent badge with a shining star pinned between the open peeks rotated on the display.

"This is Detective Cpt. Dence {Den-s'e}... How may I assist you, Sir?"

The rather reserved-looking Rat looked down his long nose at Eufrin with questioning eyes, his dark-colored fur stirring on his muzzle with nose and whiskers emotive at his statement.

"I would like to arrange a meeting with Mr. Panthar and yourself if you would, Detective!"

"What in regards to the investigation of Mr. Panthar, do you play a part in S.I.R.?"

The look of distrust and pointed interest now played across the Rat's face like the reaction to a very bitter taste. No, James didn't like it when he was contacted this fast in an investigation in this manner (it's not going to go well, I can tell), not when dealing with the wealthiest men on this continent.

"I'm the personal assistant to Mr. Panthar, Sir. My Name is Eufrin Sutter...Mr. Panthar instructed me to contact you to request a meeting with him at his private residence on Beltor {Bel-To're} Island, Sir! He has requested that we meet there at 4 pm this afternoon to review the information that he believes will dispel the charges brought against him!"

"Well, I am always interested to see the fact, Mr. Sutter, but you realize that the charges are quite considerable, `Sir'? From what I have been told, the victim will be disfigured for life, and they still do not know if there is any brain damage!??"

"I am not contacting you `Detective' to discuss the condition of the victim, though you might change your tune once you review the evidence, Sir!?"

O.K., this is not going to be good at all. ("God knows what is up with this cluster fuck now!") James knew better than to use pointed questions with this wolf, but he had to try. No, it would be in his best interest to accept the appointment if only to see what this meeting was all about. For all he knew, much more was happening here than he knew. Also, what circumstances of the reporting otter that filed the complaint (going to Great pains to play the wounded bird) declared? (this never struck him well when their emotions didn't match their eyes) Yes, he suspected something when the Female threw herself to the ground in grief, although it was strange that the love of her life was in the hospital at that very moment in surgery!

"Let me get a few facts from you if you would, Eufrin? May I call you Eufrin?..."

"No Sir... my name is `Mr. Sutter' and the only facts that I currently possess are.... I was instructed to have you meet Mr. Panthar and his representative legal counsel at his private residence on Beltor Island!"

Eufrin would not give anything more to the detective, and the misuse of his name didn't go unnoticed. He indeed only speculated that Ms. Renolds had caused this situation! That in itself was enough of a caution to keep all facts confidential as she has pulled a lot of underhanded tricks over the years. To his knowledge, though, this was Central's first involvement with charges of this `nature'!

"Mr. Sutter..... I will' be at Mr. Panthar's residence at 4 pm! Though I NEED'... to impress upon you, Sir.... that a severely injured victim is involved in this case.... so I don't know what `Evidence' could detract from these facts!"

The last-ditch efforts to get the truth before the circus began had failed. Oh, how James now dreaded the next few hours to come. Undoubtedly there would be media involved in this case. (his churning stomach now established his growing anxiety) Ms. Renold was less than truthful about the situation, maybe even the assault! Damn, his luck for drawing this case, and now, no matter what, `HE' would be the one thrust in front of those damn cameras.

"Detective, I will see you there!"

Eufrin disconnected the call only to tap into the personal access feed to Mr. Talbit's private line as he placed the next call. (You have to get to him fast and get this done to prepare for the meeting). The long chime of a secure line sounded as the call was connected.

"Mr. Talbit, Please excuse the abruptness of this call, but I need to take a statement from you concerning the incident at Mr. Panthar's funeral this morning?!"

The rather preoccupied-looking Human just stared back into the display with bemusement.

"I assume you mean when Dunn tore out of the house? Or the one where he tried to rip the head off of some draft horse?"

"I am referring to all the events you heard and witnessed, `sir'? I have been instructed to take a sworn statement from you about the circumstances you witnessed during the incident!"

Miles Just stood there staring at Eufrin with a look of hesitation. He had seen Dunn blow through the crowd of people and furs on his way outside. But he hadn't had time to see what happened out there! (Fear brushed his mind at the flashback of the horrifying bear snarling at him and blowing everybody out of his path like an out-of-control transport!)

"I can only attest to what I saw and heard, Eufrin. I saw the lump of meat on the beach, but that was after everything happened. I'm unsure if you know this, but we were all thrown out quickly after that?"

"I understand, sir, that there was an incident and somebody was injured, but what I need from you per Mr. Panthar's direction is what you saw and heard!"

"well, that is easy..."

"Hold on, Mr. Talbit, and I must record this for official use. Is that O.K.?"

"Umm..... Yyy-a-hhh... I don't see a problem with that. Just tell me when you're ready!?"

"O.K.. hold on."

Hands flying across the keyboard, Eufrin quickly set up the recording and enabled the data genlocks for both parties.

"O.K., here we go, Mr. Talbit. I need you to place your hand on the P.A.C. point, please, and then when I start speaking, you will have to answer the questions fully as I ask them, O.K.?"

"O.K.. fine.... I know what it's all about, Eufrin. When I am done, you need to tell me what happened if you would. I've never seen Dunn like that, and I thought he would kill me on the spot!" "I wish I could, Sir, but I don't know any more than you do now. But here we go!"

"This is Eufrin Sutter, personal assistant to Mr. Dunnedward E Panthar. I am speaking with Mr. Miles P. Talbit in the sworn statement of his account of the incident on May 19, 3138, in the private residence at 1 Beltor Island Drive, New Los Angeles, California. Please state in your own words, Mr. Talbit, what you witnessed during this incident?"

"I was relaying my condolences to Dunn for the tragic loss of Joseph when Mr. Panther abruptly seemed to become enraged. Without any provocation, his whole persona changed in the most frightening manner I have ever seen. Suddenly he just exploded, yelling what I can only describe as a loud ROAR' only to turn and bolt from me towards the back of the house. He knocked several people and furs to the ground in his path during his frantic charge for the back door. I don't know what caused his reaction, but shortly after that, a loud commotion in the back of the property on the patio caught my attention. Upon investigating, I witnessed Dunn holding a rather shaken Pen in his arms and a severely injured draft horse unconscious on the beach, bleeding heavily from a nasty-looking open wound on his face. Suddenly Mr. Panthar Yelled! The party was over, and everybody had to get out.' At that point, I exited the house and left. To my knowledge, that is all that happened during the incident!"

"You did not hear anything that preceded Mr. Panthar's actions, Mr. Talbit?"

"Well, now that you mention it, I did hear somebody yelling outside, and I think I heard what sounded like a slap. But I can't be sure as I was speaking with Dunn at the time."

"Is there anything else you feel you forgot or would like to change concerning the statement you have just given?"

"No, I think that is everything, though. I want to add that I know personally that Dunn would do anything to protect that young otter. Pen's the last vestige of Joseph's life now, and the way Dunn takes after that boy, I would never want to be the person that threatened him in any way!"

"Thank you, Mr. Talbit, for your statement of the incident. If additional information is required in the future, do you feel you will be able to correlate these facts and additional facts should they be needed?"

"Yes, I feel confident in what I have stated, and if you need me to do so in court, I will though I can again only attest to what I saw!?"

"Thank you. This now ends the personal sworn statement of Mr. Miles P. Talbit of his account of the incident......"

With that, Eufrin stopped the recording to address Miles directly. Though he had only moments before, he needed to be out the door, or he would be late.

"Thank you, Mr. Talbit, for this; I know Mr. Panthar will appreciate your cooperation. I also would like to let you know that he will personally inform you of what happened when he speaks with you, I am sure. I'm sorry I cannot tell you more about this matter, but I'm sure you understand!"

"It's O.K., son, I have known that bear for many years, and if this is happening, then there is a lot more going on than I think anybody but Dunn knows."

"Thank you for your time, Sir, and I have to get going. Do you want me to pass on anything to Mr. Panthar when I see him?"

"Just tell him `my heart goes out to him for his loss!... But if he ever scares me like that again, he's going to be a rug in my office!!"

Trying to make light with the Joke, Miles hoped everything would be O.K. Although from the looks of that horse, he sure would never forget this day for the rest of his life.

Thank you, Sir. I appreciate your time in this matter and will pass your comment on to Dunn."

With that statement, the display went dark, and Eufrin got moving.

(Unbeknownst to the two, "secretly" watching from the next room.) Their entire episode was under the close inspection of a sobbing otter; in the moments after Dunn closed their bedroom door, Joseph had initiated the holographic display system.

Though unable to be there in the body, he was in spirit (revisiting a similar experience 20 years before in his mind). Joseph was a truly bittersweet moment for the distraught otter. Tears run down his digital muzzle with the repentance of being unable to physically experience this pure moment with them, suppressing his feelings, knowing that he had made the right choices concerning his two cubs. "End Recording" was all he could whisper, only to have the metallic voice equally as quiet respond:

"File and authorization?" Breathing deeply, he responded:

"System protocol Pentanthin" caused a series of chirps in response as the system logged off and shut down into standby.

Some 40 minutes later, a hysterical bear entered their quiet room; Pentanthin was resting right where he had left him though his face was turned away from the door. Thank god for small things, as Dunn just didn't know what to do. He had betrayed Pen and Joseph with his actions. Though part of him will always treasure that encounter to the day Dunn died. But now the bitter truth of reality was upon him; he had to tell Pen what he had done, although just looking at him, it was pretty evident with his matted fur showing everything to the world.

"I can. can't..... J.Joooe... I...I."

(How' could I' have let this happen!?!?! No. This doesn't seem right....')

Dunn's mental state was standing on the edge of that gaping pit. No, he couldn't have done this to his precious otter! How nauseating he must now be in the eyes of the world. His life was over, and so help him, G.O.D.!!! If it wasn't for his vow to protect Pen! That Incredible amber/silver otter, he would end his own life on this spot, if only to spend eternity begging Joseph for his forgiveness!

"It's alright, my love.... Stop the tears, my teddy bear. You and I both know that nothing you did was wrong. It's not something our little wonder in the next room didn't want! (Joseph's voice barely at a mummer cracked Dunn's mental castigation) Before you even start the rant that I can see is building, let me tell you a little something! That otter in there wanted and' did exactly what you did of his own free will..!!! If you will, please just come lay down now' and listen to what I have to say before you lose it. I need to say a few things as it's now starting!"

Above all that Joseph had ever spoken to Dunn, these words stopped him in his self-hatred. ((everything blacked out as his mind shattered and all reason left him. Here he was afraid that his MATE' (dying in the bed in front of him)) would cast him into the flaming pit of hell himself! The fear dissipated as; instead, he was assuring this delicate beast of the simple fact that Pen' wanted his past transgression just as much as the bear himself.

"Dunn, come down, big boy, before you fall because there is no way I can pick you up!" The visible fear dissipated from Dunn. Instead, he was being assured by this delicate otter of the simple fact that `Pen' wanted his past transgression just as much as the bear himself.

"But.... I...... I had `< ORAL SEX >' with P.E.N.!!! (voice raising at Pen's name so loud the glass in the windows shook noticeably)

"Dunnedward, I know, and it's O.K.... come on over here and lay down now so we can talk..... Come on, my big beast, come to daddy now...." (gleaming in those amber-blue hazel eyes of his that always showed the most profound love and passion when he looked into them)

The tenor of Joseph's words only melted Dunn on the spot. So' long had it been that he genuinely heard or saw the love and affections of his lover. A thousand lifetimes since that presence was before him. True love and compassion' broadcasting from the withered angelic face. (this moment and this moment alone) Dunn would forever define the memory of his beloved here and now. No piece of this memory will ever belong to another soul as it is etched into his mind.

"How can you forgive me, Joseph? I violated Pen, and he was SLEEPING!!!"

(Recoiling) Dunn's mind abashed in frantic thoughts of guilt, self-hatred, and hopelessness. In sharp contrast to the unquestioning love returned from his dying lover regardless of his understanding? They were sharing the moment from the exact opposite end of the scale. No, Dunn had committed the worst betrayal with Pen, and now he was trying to atone for this before it was too late! Joseph could not know what had happened, could he? Turmoil crosses the distressed bear's mind slamming into him like the force of the tide only to toss him into the next wave.

"Come lay down, cub, and daddy will make it all right..... I promise!"

Reluctantly Dunn slowly lowered his shaking body. A heavy heart complied only to hold back his body to the edge of the bed to keep from soiling Joseph with his now discussing self. Slowly he placed his paws to his eyes as the dam burst forth. All the emotions of what has transpired today flooded on. The gambit of pain, agony, loss, self-loathing, and hatred were at the forefront of his mind, compounded by the utter hopeless feeling of grief that backed them up.

"I failed Pen... and you, Joseph! No matter what you say, I know it was me that should never have let that happen, and nothing you can say will ever change that!"

"Hmm... I would not be so sure of that, Dunnward! You see, I knew it would happen before you ever left our room!"

The statement cracked the hysterical bear's ministrations completely. How could Joseph have known this was going to happen? When Dunn himself didn't? No, he was trying to say he understood, which was not good enough.

"Now listen, my little cub, to me carefully... I know you love Pen with every ounce that makes up this big old shaggy bear I love, so stop torturing yourself about this, O.K.? I know nothing happened against either of your wills because, simply put, "IT WOULD NOT HAVE HAPPENED OTHERWISE"! You see, my cub, when you gave Pen the retrovirus this morning, it had a few side effects, one of which you just experienced. I tried to tell you this earlier but decided just to let nature take its course Because if I had told you what would have happened, you, my loving bear, would be halfway to Mexico City by now!.... DO YOU HEAR ME???"

"But.t..."

"No, just listen, my love.... I incorporated cretin thing's into that retrovirus so that I was sure I would know that you two love each other and can show it in the very manner you did. You know Pentanthin is not my son, love! He's my clone though I still think of him as our son. He is his own, completely separate from me. As you know, a clone is only a genetic copy of an individual, not an exact O.N.E.!!!... I have given him all the love I can, and I know you will continue long after I am gone. I just wanted to make sure that you two were O.K., so that is why this situation we find ourselves in now is happening. Do you understand what I am saying, my little bear's?"

Dunn just lay there shell-shocked out of his wits completely. The stark realization that he genuinely didn't have control still didn't appease the act itself. He could have walked away at any time, preventing it. (although no force on earth could have allowed that to happen)

"But why......?"

"Simple answer is, I needed you to know that the best part of me is still here, Love,' that's why! There are thing's happening now that you have to understand I'll no longer be able to control. I had to make sure that you would be there for him in every need that he would have! That is why I did this. I've left the information in the Lazarus file and a few other things' that I know you will want to be explained!"

"Joseph, how could you do that to Pen? He's our S.O.N.! No matter what you think or do to me, I don't care. But to force him into doing something against his will is WRONG!!!!!!"

"Dunnedward, listen to what I'm telling you!!!. What happened was not against his will at all; it's something that we both know he's been wanting since he started watching us in the first place. Yes, it's a little unorthodox for him at his age, but how old were you when we first got together?"

"Our relationship has no bearing on this situation, Joseph, and you know I.T.!!!... What we did was consensual and loving from the very first time I approached you in the lab!!! I knew what I was doing long before you ever touched me or thought of me in that manner. Hell, I was 25, almost 26 at the time, NOT 15!!!"

(Chuckling to himself)

"Dunn, how stupid do you think I am? I knew exactly what you wanted the second we first met. I could see that look in your eye's from across our island if I looked! You were not the only one that found love and `Lust,' I might add, at first sight. I can attest to that as well as you can if you only stop and think about it. But you are denying that Pen now looks at you the same way, my love. With every glance at you, I see that look from him, no matter how hard you try to deny the fact. Additionally, you sometimes look at him the same way regardless of your mental and verbal denials."

"But it's wrong on every level that there is Joseph, and you know it! Just think what would happen if anybody found out...I....... I'd be locked away never to see the light of day that instant and most likely wind up the bitch of some dragon in `JAIL'!!!"

"STOP this now, DUNNEDWARD!!! No, you would not; now think about this. Pen's all me, and in that statement, if you think about it closely, you will see that "I Love you in every way that is possible and a few that aren't supposed to be! You two share a love that will never end or suffer!!! That little taste you got from him earlier proved that completely. I know! I made sure it could happen only one way!"

"WHAT"

Dunn's whole body tensed up with this statement. He was abandoning his previous line of thinking at the lonely realization that Joseph had somehow arbitrated this entire situation though how or why was still to be explained to the bewildered bear.

"Yes.. my little cub..... I ensured he could give you something if he felt like you did during the encounter. Stop and think now. Is he old enough to be having an orgasm? Let alone to ejaculate like I know he did?...... `NO' that was only caused by 2 things, the love and passion you have for him and his for you..... If it had happened any other way, you would be extremely sick right now!!!"

"But how...? Why. What is going on here, Mr. Panthar?"

"It's simple, my love. Part of the primary reaction to the antigen was the increase of pheromones to cause you to RUT!(grinning with the fond memories)

(Letting that little secret out broke the argument in Dunn's frantic mind.)

"Yeah, I know you made me swear that I would never do that to you again. Trust me, and I still remember being unable to walk for a week because of it last time. But I wanted to ensure you would always be with Pen regardless!!! That alone is why I did it. He will now naturally secret them whenever he expresses love or passion for you. Sorry, but that is just how it is now. Is O.K...?

Second that little taste you got from him was not his seaman but a genetic byproduct of the reaction if he had not felt the love and passion for you in the way he does! It would have been quite bitter and caused a rather extremely violent neurological reaction in you had that been the case. I did this so that if he didn't feel that way for you, it would forever break the link you shared sexually. I am sorry to do this to you, my love; you must understand I only have days left before I'm gone. I don't have the time to be nice about making sure my cubs are taken care of OR if they will be there for each other. I `H.A.D.' to make sure!"

The logic behind the argument was sound, though forced on both Pen and Dunn. It's so simple to remove the emotions from a situation like Joseph had done. He was dying and had no choice but to ensure the continued care of his family. Though the innate cruelty of his actions would take some time to be removed from the now distressed bear, it's true that though horrified about his move, Dunn would always treasure the passion and feeling he experienced with Pen! It still didn't remove the motive behind them now that the truth was in the open.

"Joseph... what happens if Pen doesn't feel the same way I do or, for that matter, the way you feel he should?"

"It's simple, my love... HE DOES! There is no other way it could have happened, and before you go into the rambling that I see is coming, understand this.

Chemical markers in the brain relate to a person's mental state of feelings and emotions. You know this, my love, and you know there is no way to break these markers. So either they are there, or they are not simple as that. Now I don't need to go into a long explanation about this, as you know the rules just as well as I do.

All I want is to make sure of is that you love and will treasure Pen just as you do me, my "Big old teddy bear"! Enough of this talking. I need you to hold and help me sleep now because this situation has taken every ounce of strength I have...."

With trepidation and uncertainty in his heart, Dunn slowly lifted the frail otter into his arms only to cradle him against his strained body. How could somebody so love him that he would implement a plan that had taken years to bring to fruition? No, this was not something that Joseph had done out of last-minute desperation. Nor is it something that he had not put countless hours of thought and actual work behind. Resigning himself to the silent pledge that he would not touch Pen in that manner again until he was older and truly understood his actions were made. No force of the god's themselves, or mortal man would ever make him break this vow.

Slowly Joseph fell into sleep on the perplexed bear. The day's revelations had been so straining that Joseph could not do anything more than sleep. Slowly he slipped away into the dream world where life and pain didn't exist. Now only held by his loving bear of so many years, he knew that all would be O.K. Yes, it finally was started; he could rest now. They were safe and together; the only hope was in his dear cub's future now that things had gone the way that they were supposed to.

"I can let go now...

Finally, they are safe with each other, and I can let go...." (was the last thought of Joseph's as he slipped into unconsciousness.).......

With trepidations, James took the cutoff from the expressway for Beltor Island. He had the Chief in the back seat and two squadrons of riot control officers behind him, just in case! This situation wouldn't go well now that he had seen just about every Media transport heading in the same direction.

"Damn... How the hell do they get here so fast?.... We didn't tip them off, and I highly doubt Ms. Renolds could get to them this fast. But then again, those raptors are on a story like a fly to shit! But damn it, Chief, what are we getting ourselves into?"

"I don't know yet, but if this (waving his hand around at all the vehicles heading in the same direction), we will have a hell of a time just making the appointment now! I do not care what you think about it, James. You and I both know we're screwed! We're in over our heads here, `Detective'. No matter what, you will be the frontman on this one. I do not want to deal with this crap, and the magistrate isn't going to take kindly to the man that helped fund his campaign being treated like this!"

"Well, get ready.... looks like we are about to jump into the fire chief; I don't think they're letting anybody past the main bridge, Sir!"

Chief Mark Tanner wasn't happy to be put into this disastrous situation. Nobody should be using Central as a pawn!

Given the facts that now are playing out, including the addition of Mr. Renold's record on file, nothing of this was boding well. None of the facts in this case since it hit his desk this morning are what they first appeared to be.

"Shit, James, I think we are going to get our asses handed to us by these vultures. (Looking at the mass of People and Anthrop now blocking traffic) No matter what we do, we will not leave here without our skin getting singed!"

(Resigning himself to the dreaded moment) James opened the door to the heavy cruiser only to be blasted by the on-slot of the media. Almost blinded by the hover cams and the glare of the now Omni-present media, he tapped his coms, opening the P.A. system of the cruiser.

"People of the Media... I am Detective Dence of Central Security, Which is spelled D.E.N.C.E. for the record. I want to ask you to clear the bridge as we are in an investigation. Anybody that does not comply will be detained for impeding an office's performance during his duty!"

That simple statement though actual and riddled with consequences, did not affect the mass. They only cared about the story, and nothing that happened to them would prevent getting the scoop of the moment. Especially when it had to do with the Entex Corporation, these Lenors would sell their children if they could capitalize on this story! Now they had the taste of blood in their mouths, and nothing would get in their way.

"This is my final warning before you are removed!"

James resigned himself to leave this into more capable hands. Finally, it was clear that nothing he said or did would change this debacle. He was rebuked by the milling media and shouted questions at every turn. He just turned on his heels and opened the door to the transport.

"Move IN" (The irritated Rat barked into his com unit, tail firmly planted against his right leg)

He was tapping his com's again to terminate the connection, a deep breath released as he now had taken care of the media for a short time. These leaches will now pay for not listing to him! At least now he will restore some semblance of order to this mad hose they created.

"I hope they enjoy the ride. Now let's get the hell out of here!

Chief, is it O.K. if we use the `Mag' to get past this mess while the T.A.T. cleans them up?"

"Do whatever you must, Detective; I don't want to be in this mess any more than you do!"

A quick flip of controls and James engaged the maglev. With the briefest shutter, the curser lifted from the ground slowly as the gravity engine kicked in. It was not commonly used due to the power requirements, but it's one hell of a fun way to travel.

......

End Chapter Three -- Discovery

Comments are always welcome. Please let me know what you think.

Pentanthin ~

Lenor {Len-Or} An immoral Genetic experiment devoid of any mental ability crossing a raptor with a dragon. No Human D.N.A. was used in the construct, as the military aimed to develop an unstoppable weapon. It stands about 8 feet in height at around 250 pounds and is covered in thick scales from head to toe. Sharp dorsal spines accented by poison glands about the neck and tail. It is generally considered a walking stomach encased in armor and is greatly feared for its ability to eviscerate anything it comes across.