Waiting for his father, Whiskey-Jack was outside once again after warming up, practicing his swordsmanship with the dull, rusted training sword his father had provided.
It wasn't much, its edge was dulled and its flat edge covered in patches of rust, but it was light, making it perfect for Whiskey-Jack to get used to the techniques they'd practiced together.
He sliced through the air, imagining himself facing different opponents with every swing. But as he finished a spin move, his eyes caught sight of his father sprinting out of the forest.
Erwin wasn't slowing down, and the look on his face of fear… Whiskey-Jack had never seen it before. Something was definitely wrong.
"Dad!" Whiskey-Jack shouted, trying to get his father's attention before he could crash into him.
Erwin reached him in seconds, grabbing him by the shoulders, gripping it with a force that startled Whiskey-Jack. He scanned him quickly, looking for any signs of an attack.
"Where is Muskrat?" Erwin demanded, his voice desperate.
Whiskey-Jack, confused, stammered, "He's inside… I think he's sleeping."
During the winter, there was little for the boys to do outside, so they often spent their days resting, almost hibernating. Making it normal for Muskrat to take a nap in the middle of the day.
Without another word, Erwin dragged Whiskey-Jack inside. He quickly shook Muskrat awake, his actions urgent.
"What's going on?" Muskrat groggily asked, rubbing his eyes.
Staring into their father's eyes, all they could see was fear, like that of a trapped animal. He was struggling to find the words, but with his voice trembling, spoke.
"Boys… your mom…" he paused, swallowing hard. "Your mom has been possessed...or brainwashed...or worse, she's dangerous".
Whiskey-Jack froze, his heart skipping a beat. Doing his best to steady his breathing, their father continued
"She's been doing… unspeakable things," Erwin continued, his lip trembling. "She aims to harm us, you both need to get as far away from here as possible."
The words hung in the air, frightening the boy's. Whiskey-Jack was the first to speak, his voice barely escaping his mouth. "Dad, what's happening? Are you coming with us?"
Erwin's face was grim. "No, I'll give you both time. I'll deal with your mother. Whiskey-Jack…find Qui or Midok, remember your training. It will get you to safety."
There was no time for further questions, they couldn't hesitate. The boys began to quickly pack, heartbeats racing, but then they stopped when they heard their father's voice, struck with fear.
"She's back."