The Cadet and The General (Final Space)

Chapter Four: Duty

Pawblo was in his dorm, writing down his thoughts inside of a journal that he had bought before joining the army. He wrote about his first week and how everyone was tough and friendly. He was even considering applying for a role as a mechanic down at the docking station.

A knock could be heard from the door. "It's open!" Pawblo kept his eyes on his journal. He just began to write about a certain General that he began to take a liking to. Little did he realize that the man in front of him was the same guy.

"Good evening, Cadet."

Pawblo was startled when he recognized that voice. He closed the journal quickly and stood up from the bed. He raised a hand, saluting him. "Good morning, sir!"

Cataloupe waved his hand. "At ease, Pawblo. Just here to let you know that you've been selected to be a part of our next scouting group." Pawblo's ears perked up. "R-really?! But I've only been here for a week!"

The general nodded. "Yes, I understand that. But the other generals discussed this and they think you show great potential. I hate to agree with them, but I do." Pawblo was nervous, as he didn't know what to say. He was shocked to hear this.

"I.....Who'll be leading the scout team?"

Cataloupe smirked as he cracked his knuckles. "You're looking at the leader right now. Don't worry. I always take care of my team." Pawblo blushed a little bit. He was sort of glad that someone he knew would be right there with him.

"When do we leave?"

"Tonight. I suggest you get some rest." He gave Pawblo a nod, and soon walked out, closing the door behind him. Pawblo flopped back onto the bed. He didn't know what to do. But he knew that the General would be counting on him.

"I can do this. Just gotta put all of my training to good use." He curled up in his bed and fell asleep.

At night, there was a knock on the door. Pawblo immediately got up and grabbed a duffel bag. He also slid into his military vest. When he opened the door, he was greeted to Cataloupe, who had a backpack with him.

"Wha? Sir? What are you—?"

"Came to make sure you knew the way to the docking station. Plus, I came to check up on you." He twirled his mustache. "Are you nervous?" Pawblo felt nervous just by standing in front of Cataloupe. But he knew what the General meant. "A little, sir. This is my first time on the battlefield." He gulped a little.

Cataloupe leaned down a little and placed his giant hand on Pawblo's shoulder. "Don't worry. I felt that way when I got my first mission a long time ago. I won't let anything happen to you. Promise." He smiled a little. The sight of that combined with his kind words made Pawblo feel a little better.

"Thanks, sir. I feel better."

"You know? I'm getting a little tired of formalities. You're free to call me by my name." Cataloupe gave him a thumbs up.

"Alright, sir—I mean, Cataloupe."

"Don't mention it. Now come along, Cadet. We have a duty to uphold." The big ventrexian began to walk down the hallway. Pawblo hesitated for a second, but soon followed him.