Early on his day off, Sela popped over to Chips home to meet with Stone. The morning doughnut smell from Chips house filled his nostrils as he rounded the last corner. He extended a paw to rap on the door.

“They’re off for the day,” Stone said.

His voice came from behind. Sela turned, twisting back and setting himself into the ready stance.

Stone moved smoothly around him, inspecting the otters form. He pulled a cane out and rapped Sela on the knuckles. Sela was taken aback mentally but didn’t flinch.

“Easy, you must be as water. Ready to move with a moments notice.”

Stone moved again to whap his knuckles and Sela reacted a bit faster stepping out of the way.

“Who taught you?”

Stone stared him down, impassive.

“I’m just a guard -I…”

Stone whapped him again.

“You’re never just a guard. You’re a representative of the company in all that you do. Try that again.”

Sela stiffened.

“I learned at the short course.”

Stone sighed.

“Incredible. Eight weeks of training and they send you babies out to represent the company.”

Sela turned to look and Stone stopped him with the cane. He dropped into a bow.

“Teach me.”

Stone grabbed a pack with two swords, tossed them to Sela and started walking.

“I thought you would never ask,” Stone said,”Follow me.”