CHAPTER 8

BATTLE FOR THE TOC

Location: Alleyway Outside the TOC

Time: 0930 hours

My plan is straightforward. We’re going to charge toward the TOC with the speed and fury of a buffalo stampede.

“Pawtriots, you ready?” I ask.

“We’re ready,” says Penny.

But as I look into the eyes of the Pawtriots, I can tell they’re scared and I don’t blame them, because I am, too.

“Pawtriots. Listen up and listen good. This is more than just the TOC or the Sanctuary. We are going to take the fight to Mr. Mocoso, Hans, Heinz, and the Red Hands, and we’re going to take it to them hard. They came to take gold. But we’re fighting for more than that. We’re fighting for our home!” I howl.

As I stand before the Pawtriots, Gunner saunters up beside me and leans in close.

“Hey, Rico, thanks a lot,” whispers Gunner.

“For what?” I whisper back.

“Making me realize that I’ve still got some fight left in me,” says Gunner.

“Hooah!” yell the Pawtriots in unison as we all march forward.