Captain Canine: The First Avenger

Chapter 1

June 22nd, 2017

At long last. After four long, enriching years of studying at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Hunter J Ryder has earned his diploma. He also acquired a PHD. in physics, mechanical engineering, and electrical engineering. It is astounding progress for the first dog to ever enroll in a college. With his schooling done, one question remains: What to do now? Hunter sits in his dorm, contemplating his next step in life. Should he move back to Adventure Bay, Washington, and work as an engineer for his first responder family, or should he look for a tech company to work with? Hunter is deep in thought when the dorm phone rings. Hunter puts the phone on speaker.

"Hello? Hunter J Ryder?" The dorm receptionist says, in her old sweet voice, "There is a lovely dog here who wants to see you."

Hunter rushes and puts on his MIT cap. Hunter has always enjoyed the feeling of caps, from baseball caps to his recycling cap. Since giving his recycling cap to Rocky, whom Hunter regards to as a nephew more than a friend, Hunter has worn his MIT cap.

Hunter makes his way to the dorm lobby where a white Labrador is waiting for him. She is dressed in a UDCFR uniform with a teal vest and black jeans. The UDCFR is a govornment funded organization that focuses on smart dogs' ability to act independently from their owners. The U.S. Department of Canine First Responders' goal is to make smart dogs as independent as your average police officer, firefighter, publice service personnel, and so on. Hunter's family also serves as an UDCFR team stationed at a UDCFR ouptost called the Lookout, Adventure Bay Washington. When his family was ready to become an official outpost, Willow came and taught them how things operated and how to work the machines and gadgets that were mandated. Willow took a liking to Hunter's skills and intelligence and motivated him to go to MIT. Without her, Hunter would still be a wishy washy dog stuck at home.

"Fancy seeing you here, Willow." Hunter comes down the stairs to meet the Labrador. He hasn't seen Willow since the beginning of MIT, so it is a pleasant surprise for him.

"Greetings, Hunter." She says in her business, almost no emotional voice, "If you have a minute, I would like to discuss your future with you."

Hunter follows her out into the warm sunshine of Boston. The receptionist looks at Hunter before he leaves, "Is she your guidance counselor?"

"No, she's a friend." Hunter walks with Willow as they head outside.

"Don't think because I helped you through your hesitating rut means we're friends." Willow scolds, "For future reference, I'm your acquaintance. I am only here to assist you."

"What do i need assistance for?" Hunter says, adjusting his thin green shirt. his shirt goes well with his dark blue jeans.

"I have been assigned to assist you as you settle into your new job, should you accept it."

Hunter stops walking. A new job? Hunter did plan on finding one, but he didn't expect it to be so soon and without an application.

Willow stops and turns to face Hunter. "You are supposed to keep walking."

Hunter looks at her with confusion, "What do you mean, new job?"

Willow takes a minute before answering. during that time, Hunter then smells the sweet aroma of vanilla coming from her fur. even four years later, and she still smells as amazing as the day Hunter met her. Hunter begins to get uncomfortable when Willow begins, "Due to your higher intelligence than most other dogs, even smart dogs, you have been invited to work a lead roll at the Factory of the UDCFR. That is where our vehicles, tools, weapons, gadgets, and others are constructed, designed, and tested. The humans in management are impressed by your academic scores. If you choose to accept, you will be a part of further evolving the future of dog-kind."