The weight of his father's arrest and the isolation from his friends pushed Caius to a decision he never thought he'd make.
'Time to take up the family legacy.'
With a deep breath, Caius grabbed his jacket and set off for The Panther's Den. As he descended the stairs he saw his father's motorcycle. Taking up the courage he got on top of the motorcycle. He had never ridden a motorcycle and didn't even have a driver's license for It. His dad had shown him how to drive It a few times.
He ran his hand over the sleek black metal, feeling a surge of resolve. Taking a deep breath, Caius swung his leg over the bike and started the engine. With a final glance at the house, Caius revved the engine and set off into the night. The streets of Blackthorn were quiet, the moon casting an eerie glow over the town. As he rode, the cool night air whipped past him, and the sense of purpose grew stronger with each passing mile.
Arriving at The Panther's Den, Caius parked the motorcycle and took a moment to gather his thoughts. He knew that tonight would be a test of his commitment and resolve, and he was determined to prove himself. Steeling his nerves, he walked inside.
Caius made his way to the back room, the Panther's Den, where Bonkin and a few other Panthers were.
Bonkin looked up from the pool table, his expression hardening as he saw Caius. "What do you want, kid?"
Caius took a deep breath, stepping forward with determination. "I want to join the Panthers."
The room fell silent, the other men pausing their activities to watch the exchange. Bonkin leaned back in his chair, studying Caius with a mix of surprise and curiosity.
"You want to be a Panther?" Bonkin repeated, his tone incredulous. "Do you even understand what that means?"
Caius nodded, his determination unwavering. "I understand. My dad was one, and so was my grandmother. I need answers, and I need support. The Panthers are my family's legacy, and I want to be a part of it."
Bonkin's eyes narrowed, his expression thoughtful. "You do realize that this isn't a game, right? Being a Panther means embracing a life of danger and loyalty. There's no turning back once you're in. Once a panther always a panther"
"I know," Caius said firmly. "I'm ready."
Bonkin exchanged a look with the other men around the pool table before putting the stick down and approaching Caius. "Alright, kid. If you're serious about this, you'll have to prove yourself. We don't just let anyone in. You'll need to earn your place."
Caius nodded, feeling a mix of nervousness and determination. "What do I have to do?"
Bonkin's expression was unreadable. "There's a shipment coming in tonight. We need someone to help with the delivery. It's risky, but it's a test of your commitment. If you can handle it, we'll consider your request."
Caius swallowed hard, knowing that this was his chance to prove himself. "I'll do it."
"Good," Bonkin said, his tone approving. "Meet us here at 9 p.m. And remember, Caius, once you're in, there's no going back."
"Can I wait here?"
"Of course" Bonkin laughed clearly amused.
As the clock strikes nine p.m. the group, Bonkin, Caius, and a few other Panthers, left The Panther's Den and headed to the docks, the atmosphere tense with uncertainty. The moonlight reflected off the water, casting an otherworldly glow over the scene. Caius felt a mixture of nerves and excitement as he followed Bonkin's lead.
When they arrived, the docks were quiet, the only sounds were the gentle lapping of the water and the distant hum of machinery. Bonkin gave a series of hand signals, and the Panthers moved into position, ready to receive the shipment.
As the boat approached, Caius could see the outlines of crates being loaded onto the dock. He joined the others in unloading the cargo, his muscles straining under the weight. Caius was ever so thankful for his mom's training. Despite the danger, Caius felt a sense of purpose and connection that he hadn't experienced in a long time.
The operation went smoothly, and soon the crates were loaded into waiting trucks. Bonkin clapped Caius on the back, a rare smile breaking through his usually stoic expression. "You did good, kid. You passed the first test. I honestly thought you would get chickened out"
Caius smiled, feeling a surge of pride and relief. He had passed the first test, but he knew there would be more challenges ahead. As they made their way back to The Panther's Den, Caius felt a sense of happiness. He was ready to face whatever came next, armed with the knowledge that he was part of something bigger than himself.