New Zoo (Original Series by Wallace111)

New-Zoo-Behind the Curtain

The Office was quiet and musky as a nearby clock ticked away.


The ticking was beginning to prove annoying to the man currently sitting within the stiff brown chair. He glanced towards the annoying clock, grumbling incoherently under his breath.


"Where the devil is he?" wondered the man, irritation building up in him. He rubbed his eyes, curious as to what could be so important to the Governor that he was missing their intended meeting.


"Seriously, it's like he's deliberately trying to avoid me," said the man, the door suddenly opening catching his attention. The man turned, noticing that his intended recipient had arrived.


"It's good to see you too, Doctor Hole...or would you prefer Andrew?" said the Governor. He strolled forward confidently, taking his place behind the large desk. He sat on the wide, large chair as if he was a king sitting on his throne.


"Very amusing sir" replied Doctor Hole, his patience wearing thin for his boss's shenanigans. He looked at the Governor momentarily, returning his attention to his notes.


"I'm presuming you're here to update me on our current projects?" asked the Governor, his expression immediately serious. Doctor Hole was unfazed by this, all the years he had been serving the Governor had contributed to his stoic demeanour.


"Yes, particularly the New Zoo project that commenced six weeks ago" replied Doctor Hole. He noticed the Governor's immediate change in expression. "Should I save that for last?" asked Doctor Hole.


"Please do" replied the Governor, slouching in his chair as he faced Doctor Hole.


"Fair enough," said Doctor Hole, quickly skipping through his notes. He found his unrelated notes as he summarised "The Orphan Project is behind schedule. While we have many subjects, so far none have coped with the tests we are putting them under" said Doctor Hole, noticing the Governor's shift in demeanour.


"Never mind, I'd rather have quality over quantity" replied the Governor. He then turned away, staring at the large self-portrait above his chair. "I presume you've organized the disposal order?" asked the Governor.


"Of course. As your Project Overseer, I did the final signoff this morning" replied Doctor Hole, his tone indicating he felt insulted by the question. He ran his hand through his long white hair, his lab coat ruffled slightly.


"Do you have 'any' good news?!" asked the Governor, accentuating the any to drive the point home as frustration began to seep into his voice.


"Well, the research of those school children we've been keeping tabs on looks promising. Perhaps one day, we can recruit them" said Doctor Hole. The Governor smiled at this, those children did seem promising as he turned back to face Doctor Hole.


"I guess we should get down to business," said the Governor, his tone containing a hint of annoyance.


"Very well" replied Doctor Hole, glancing over his notes before putting them down. "I think we can both agree that your original idea hasn't exactly worked out," said Doctor Hole.


"Unfortunately so...it took much longer than expected" started the Governor, recalling how he had approved of the project years ago. "I never got the chance to use it to defeat my political opponents...and my worthy rival deserves a much better fate" finished the Governor, eying Doctor Hole's confusion.


"You're talking about Diana, aren't you?" asked Doctor Hole, his expression indicating irritation.


"Of course..." replied the Governor, taking a moment to collect his thoughts.


"Sir, with all due respect, it's been nine years," said Doctor Hole. "The Society claimed their blood years ago" continued Doctor Hole, his expression still confused as he was unable to work out what had spooked his boss this much.


"They never found her body...until then I can never be sure" replied the Governor, turning back to face Doctor Hole. He slammed his hands on the desk firmly, glaring at his assistant. "So kindly, move onto the next point," said the Governor sternly, Doctor Hole nonchalantly shrugging his shoulders as he did so.


"Fine," said Doctor Hole, his tone somewhat annoyed. "This never would've happened if we went with my project" muttered Doctor Hole.


"What was that?" asked the Governor, his voice still stern as Doctor Hole remained unfazed.


"You heard me," said Doctor Hole, his tone argumentative. "This never would have happened if you picked my project all those years ago" argued Doctor Hole, standing up as he stared down the Governor as they glared back at each other.


"Not the cyborg idea again," said the Governor, rubbing his eyes in annoyance. "I've tried to appease you on that one by giving you that CEO's company" continued the Governor. The pair stared down at each other for a brief moment. Soon, both faltered as Doctor Hole sat back down. This wasn't the first time that Doctor Hole had annoyed the Governor. However, he also didn't have anyone else as good at what Doctor Hole could do.


"I'm thankful for that...I really am" replied Doctor Hole, recalling the former owner was now a lion within the New Zoo. "Guess he's had a career shift from the king of his company to the king of the jungle" thought Doctor Hole, chuckling slightly.


"Speaking of which...we need to talk about whatever project you've been working on," said the Governor. Doctor Hole was about to respond before the Governor put his hand up. "It matters to me when the power you're consuming is causing blackouts across the city. The Upper Eastern bloc was out for ten days" added the Governor.


"All the more reason for us to continue our investigation into other energy sources" replied Doctor Hole sarcastically. "Have you extracted a sample from the pit downstairs?" asked Doctor Hole.


"Yes, I've given it to Doctor Mandrake to examine at some point," said the Governor. The pair turned to look at each other, wondering where to go from here.


"I guess I should get to my main point," said Doctor Hole, having let the silence hang long enough. "Given the current performance of the New Zoo, I'm inclined to believe it's becoming an increasingly sunk cost fallacy" continued Doctor Hole.


"Why should I trust your opinion on this matter?" asked the Governor, genuine curiosity on his face. "You've been against this since the outset and I want to make sure your opinion is based on more than just your biases...Doctor" continued the Governor.


"Haven't you heard the rumours circulating?" asked Doctor Hole, looking directly into the Governor's eyes. "People are becoming suspicious due to their carelessness...particularly from the circus midget," said Doctor Hole.


"I can't argue with you there. Rebecca certainly picked...questionable subordinates" said the Governor. "However, I still think there's some promise for Charlotte," added the Governor. Doctor Hole knew what he meant...and he didn't like it one bit. However, for now, he held his tongue, deciding to focus on the topic at hand.


"Fair enough," said Doctor Hole simply, looking back towards his notes briefly. "Still, I recall your frustration that Mavis was transformed," said Doctor Hole.


"Yes...I liked her. Her performances were just...exquisite" replied the Governor.


"I suppose, if it's any consolation, she could still perform for you. It'd just be very different but...it could be a bonding moment for you and your daughter" said Doctor Hole. "Although I need to ask...why are you being this tolerable of Rebecca? You've 'removed' others for less" asked Doctor Hole, confused yet also intrigued.


"I find potential in the possibility of a union between you and Rebecca," said the Governor.


"I'm already married," said Doctor Hole, a deadpan tone in his voice. However, the look on his face implied he was doing it for amusement.


"Not what I meant" replied the Governor. "Although how is Andrea doing?" asked the Governor.


"She's doing well. Continuing to study marine life in her spare time. She's still settling into my new schedule with my work at the former Doctor Hole's company" replied Doctor Hole. "Anyway, you were saying?" said Doctor Hole, attempting to get the topic back on track.


"Yes, I've been considering the possibility of combining your and Rebecca's talents" explained the Governor. "Your expertise with technology and her talent with magic I feel if combined, they'd be a force to be reckoned with" finished the Governor, having a victorious smile on his face as he looked towards Doctor Hole.


"I presume this means we'd have to get along?" said Doctor Hole.


"Of course" replied the Governor, giving Doctor Hole a small glare.


"Unfortunately I doubt...that will be possible" replied Doctor Hole.


"You're always the bearer of bad news, aren't you?" asked the Governor.


"At least I give you bad news...unlike some people I know" defended Doctor Hole.


"What's that supposed to mean?!" said the Governor, his annoyance very apparent in his voice. If Doctor Hole cared, he would know he was on thin ice.


"Let me be honest for a moment sir, Periwinkle is far too sadistic to look past his urges. He's always looking for his next fix, his next victim. I'd bet he'll abandon us the second we can't give him what he wants" stated Doctor Hole, taking a breath as he collected his thoughts. "Secondly, as much as you like Mandrake as a friend, he's like a lost little puppy without you. I feel he could potentially drift away from you sir" continued Doctor Hole.


The Governor stared at Doctor Hole for a moment. He had to admit that Doctor Hole was right. He sat back in his chair, grumbling slightly. "To be fair, I've seen him becoming distant. He seems to be pulling away from my control, especially since my assistant has been with him. I fear that I might lose his loyalty soon enough" said the Governor.


"If I may sir...might I suggest that you keep them distant. Give your assistant an external project to focus on while Mandrake is left busy researching our secret project. The reason you gave me for the Zoo all those years ago"


"That's...actually a good idea," said the Governor.


"I would hope so, that's what you pay me for" replied Doctor Hole.


The pair were in silence once more. A small beeping could be heard as Doctor Hole looked down at his PDA. Andrea was messaging him, requesting his urgent attendance at their laboratory.


"If you don't mind, I'll be leaving. Duty calls" said Doctor Hole, standing up from his chair.


"Rebecca should be outside now. Can you let her in as you leave?" asked the Governor.


"Fine," said Doctor Hole, heading towards the door as he calmly opened it. He looked around, noticing Rebecca dressed up in her management attire. She was dressed up in her zoo uniform as Doctor Hole had to force back his disdain.


"You'd think she'd have another outfit?" thought Doctor Hole, suppressing his annoyance.


"I guess it's my time to go in?" asked Rebecca.


"Obviously" replied Doctor Hole, nodding as he directed towards the door. He watched Rebecca heading towards the door, barely suppressing his annoyance.


"I don't know what he sees in her" mumbled Doctor Hole, huffing as he decided to return to his laboratory. He was looking forward to whatever breakthrough his wife might have accomplished.


On the Observation Deck:


Charlotte was looking down as she eyed the various laboratories scattered around, each one dedicated to various projects to serve the Governor. It made her feel rather small, like a small cog in the machine. She looked on in awe, her mouth gaped open as she tried to take it all in.


"I wonder...is this how mother and father felt?" thought Charlotte, getting lost in her thoughts. She did miss her parents, they must be worried sick about her. Charlotte smiled briefly, recalling better times.


She failed to notice she was being approached by someone. The figure appeared to be a man of fairly average height, Charlotte's head coming to his stomach. He continued to walk forward, noticing the redhead was still taking in the sights.


The figure chuckled softly as he approached Charlotte.


"Inspiring? Isn't it?" asked the figure, catching Charlotte off guard as she turned back, noticing the figure she was staring at.


Charlotte eyed the man's well-cut brown hair. She continued to look over the man, seeing his white lab coat which appeared to have red dots all over it. There was also a red stripe going down the coat towards the end. She glanced into his brown eyes, suddenly feeling uneasy at the expression he was giving her.


"Oh pardon me, where are my manners?" said the Man. "My name is Doctor Liam Periwinkle but just call me Periwinkle...everyone does," said Doctor Periwinkle, his sadistic stare not unwavering as Charlotte continued to feel uneasy. She stared closer at the red dots on his coat, a sick feeling in her stomach as she adjusted her glasses. She had to be sure.


"Wait...is that blood?" thought Charlotte, feeling increasingly uneasy as she looked at Periwinkle.


"Well? Aren't you going to introduce yourself?" asked Periwinkle, exaggeratedly waving his arms. The smile on his face never faded as Charlotte found herself becoming increasingly nervous.


"My name is Charlotte," said Charlotte, introducing herself. Her tone of voice was still uneasy, causing her to get a glance from Periwinkle.


"Piece of advice...have some confidence. In our line of work, you can't afford to have people messing you around. You need to be swift, ruthless and never, I repeat never doubt yourself" said Periwinkle.


"It's just so...vast" replied Charlotte. Periwinkle stared at her confused for a moment before a realization came to him.


"Wait...I see, you're wondering how to cope with the scale of everything we're doing here" said Periwinkle, smiling as Charlotte's reaction appeared to confirm his suspicion. "Ok let me give you another piece of advice" continued Periwinkle.


Before Charlotte could react, she was suddenly pushed forward. She tried to recover, but she was unable to stop herself from falling back as she felt herself being forced over the railing. Her eyes widened with fear as she realised she was about to go over.


Which was stopped seconds later as she felt her shirt being forcefully grabbed. She hung precariously close to the edge as she noticed the excited gaze coming from Periwinkle.


"He's enjoying this?" thought Charlotte, feeling a sudden sense of fear as he seemed to be losing his grip. Charlotte slid slightly, her eyes full of fear. She thought back to her parents once more, what would they have thought if they could see her now?


Charlotte was then suddenly pulled back, landing on the floor for a moment. She eyed the floor, breathing heavily for a moment as she attempted to regain her composure. Charlotte then looked up, eying Periwinkle as a sadistic grin covered his face. It gave Charlotte the creeps as Periwinkle continued to look down at her.


"I recommend you stay in your bubble. You and your friends should just stick to your New Zoo. I wouldn't recommend wandering off into the 'abyss'" said Periwinkle, using his finger to emphasize his words.


"How...how do you cope?" asked Charlotte.


"Simple..." replied Periwinkle. He turned towards Charlotte, his smile widening as he looked down at her once more. "I stay in my bubble" finished Periwinkle. Upon finishing his sentence, he began to walk away, leaving Charlotte feeling nervous on the ground.


After all, he had another appointment to attend to.


As Charlotte watched him leave, she managed to get to her feet. She looked back over the side, eyeing the many laboratories once more. She felt an uneasiness in her stomach as she continued to glance.


Eventually, she couldn't take it anymore as she turned away.


"What have me and Elizabeth become trapped in?" wondered Charlotte, confused and concerned for her friend as she wondered where she could be.


Periwinkle took one final glance back. He smirked maliciously as he exited.


"Andrew better appreciate me ensuring his job security," thought Periwinkle, pushing the thought out of his mind. For now, he had more pressing matters to focus on.


Such as having fun with his latest victim.


Within Laboratory 15:


The area was pristine, organised as Elizabeth looked around. The Laboratory was completely white, appearing extremely sterile as various apparatus were scattered all over. No doubt containing various experiments that were being worked on. The surrounding walls were thick sheets of glass. This would allow anyone on the outside to look in.


Elizabeth's attention was ultimately drawn to a nearby tank that seemed to contain a purple substance.


"Wow, he's expanded considerably since last time," thought Elizabeth, her brow furrowing for a moment. "I guess the Governor's truly here to stay" continued Elizabeth, stuck in thought.


"My lab is not a museum" stated a voice bluntly, snapping Elizabeth out of her thoughts. She looked over, eyeing the man to whom this lab belonged.


He appeared unkempt, his short black hair was unruly. A small pair of glasses adorned his face as a scruffy lab coat, greyed from usage covered his form. Scrawled letters on the material confirmed his name. Elizabeth noticed him directing her, his glance condescending which made her feel irritated.


"Coming...Mandrake" said Elizabeth bitterly. She began to walk over, wondering why Rebecca had pulled them along this time. After all, she barely came here if she could avoid it. She suppressed the thought as she approached Mandrake's station, curious as to what he was working on.


"So...what are you working on?" asked Elizabeth.


"The project currently justifying your friend's 'New Zoo'" replied Doctor Mandrake, his tone sarcastic as he didn't even glance away from his computer. Elizabeth felt her irritation rising slightly as Mandrake clearly couldn't be bothered to acknowledge her.


Elizabeth was about to leave. However, she managed to steal a glance at a nearby monitor which gave her pause. She noticed the green colouration of the screen as what appeared to be a test tube was being loaded into position.


The monitor then had large orange text appearing stating 'LOADING ANIMAL GENOME.'


"Loading genome?" thought Elizabeth, confusion evident on her face. "What experiment is this again?" asked Elizabeth, her expression becoming further concerned.


"You're particularly dense, aren't you?" replied Doctor Mandrake, smirking slightly as he noticed Elizabeth's annoyed expression. "This is an experiment to see if I can extract the genetic material from the genome," continued Doctor Mandrake. "If I can extract the material, I should be able to replicate it. After doing so, it can be weaponized for the Governor's aims" finished Doctor Mandrake, not averting his attention from his computer. He tapped a few buttons, taking precise care with the work he was doing.


Elizabeth felt uneasy, sick to her stomach as she tried to comprehend what she had just been told. "So, what animal are you testing with?" asked Elizabeth, her tone still uneasy.
She dreaded the answer she was going to get but deep down, she had to know.


"The only successful genome I was able to extract was a panda genome" explained Doctor Mandrake, not turning away from his computer. He tapped a few more keys, getting the genome in position. It would soon be time to attempt the replication process.


"Wait...panda?" thought Elizabeth. Her thoughts suddenly drifted back to a distant memory. Years ago, Elizabeth remembered that she, alongside Charlotte, had to prove themselves before the commencement of the New Zoo. As part of this 'initiation', they had to transform a person into an animal. The pair had worked on it together, eventually deciding on a panda as the choice of animal.


Elizabeth's mind snapped back to the present as she felt dread within.


"Mandrake? Whatever happened to the panda from our initiation?" asked Elizabeth. She hoped she was prepared for whatever answer she was about to be given.


"It's dead," replied Doctor Mandrake. "However, I was able to extract its genome. However, the process was imperfect, resulting in the panda dying" said Mandrake, furrowing his brow as his concentration increased on the attempted extraction.


"Wait, why weren't we told about this?" asked Elizabeth, her tone full of anger and concern.


"Why do you feel you needed to know?" replied Doctor Mandrake. "Honestly, you need to grow up. Sacrifices need to be made to achieve the greater good" continued Doctor Mandrake, not averting his gaze. It was then the computer beeped as Mandrake smiled in satisfaction.


"Almost there," thought Doctor Mandrake, his smile widening as he was within moments of realising the Governor's ambitions.


"But what of the others? Surely, they're not going to be..." replied Elizabeth, her tone in a small panic.


"They all will be extracted eventually, the Governor will have what he desires regardless of whether you oppose it" replied Doctor Mandrake, interrupting Elizabeth as he turned away for a brief moment. He stared down Elizabeth for a moment, as if daring her to continue.


"But, they were all people once," argued Elizabeth, her tone feeble as Mandrake had to resist the urge to laugh.


"If you really cared about that, they'd still be people" stated Doctor Mandrake coldly, turning back to eye his computer. It wouldn't be too long now. " Now, if you've finished wasting my time, Red Dwarf, please get out" finished Doctor Mandrake.


Meanwhile, Elizabeth was just at a loss for words. Her thoughts began to drift rapidly as she thought back to the other animals they had collected. Her thoughts eventually settled around her Seals and Orca.


"What's going to happen to them?" thought Elizabeth, her concern filling her mind. At that moment a distant memory from her childhood surfaced, causing her to close her eyes. She felt rage filling her being as she turned away from the door. She eyed Mandrake who still had his back turned to her.


"No, I won't let that happen, not again" mumbled Elizabeth. Mandrake turned around, confused as he eyed Elizabeth.


"I thought I told you to leave" stated Doctor Mandrake, feeling annoyed at Elizabeth's apparent inability to obey simple commands.


With that comment, something in Elizabeth snapped. She rushed forward, screaming at the tops of her lungs as she threw her fist straight into Mandrake's cheek.


Mandrake, barely able to respond, narrowly pressed a small red button on his desk. A ringing began to commence, the alarm for his laboratory having been triggered. He didn't have another moment to dodge the next punch which Elizabeth gave him. He clutched his stomach, holding it as Elizabeth continued to hit Mandrake.


Elizabeth was barely responding to anything going around her. She was seeing red as her mind became solely focused on hitting the man guilty of pushing her to her breaking point. Fortunately, those self-defence classes she had been partaking in had come in handy as she continued to hit Mandrake as hard and as fast as she could.


The pair were caught in the moment that they barely heard the computer voice a simple yet devastating message.


'REPLICATION FAILED'


Within the Central Office:


"Therefore, I think you can see why I'm currently unimpressed with your New Zoo so far," said the Governor, taking small steps before turning to face Rebecca.


"Sir...I can explain" replied Rebecca, her expression faltering slightly. However, she regained her composure quickly as she stared towards the Governor.


"I highly recommend you do" stated the Governor. "After all, your project has already gone considerably over budget and took years...to even get started" finished the Governor sternly, glaring slightly at Rebecca.


"Um sir, surely we can come to some sort of...agreement," said Rebecca, her tone sweet as she stared at him innocently.


"I'm not buying the innocent girl act Rebecca" replied the Governor. "I know you much better than that '' continued the Governor as he walked over towards a nearby bookshelf. He glanced across the books for a moment, pulling on one as it triggered a hidden switch.


Rebecca was surprised as she watched a section of the office wall shift and change. It opened up, pulling back as something pushed itself forward. It appeared to be a case of some kind as it pushed forward.


The contents of the shelf were familiar to Rebecca as she stood up. She walked forward, seeing various masks carefully displayed within the case. The most recognisable one that came to Rebecca's mind was the cheetah mask directly in the centre.


"I'm...I'm surprised you kept these," said Rebecca. She turned to face the Governor who was smiling, clearly still satisfied with his victory...even if it came at a heavy price.


"These masks are the reason I'm being considerably patient with you Rebecca. I suggest you stop trying my patience" said the Governor. He chuckled slightly as a thought came to his mind. "I still wished you let me stuff the cheetah," said the Governor, ignoring the glare Rebecca was giving him in response.


The pair didn't have much time to focus as an alarm suddenly sounded. The Governor looked around, quickly heading back to his desk as he pushed a button on his intercom.


"What the hell's going on?!" demanded the Governor, his tone surprised.


"Something's happening in Laboratory 15" replied a female voice over the intercom.


"Wait..." said the Governor, thinking for a moment. "I want our containment team down there immediately" ordered the Governor sternly.


"Fair enough sir" replied the female voice. The intercom went dead as the purple-haired woman got out her PDA. She quickly looked through her contacts, finding the desired recipient.


"Ivan, you and your team are needed in Laboratory 15 promptly" informed the woman.


"It will be done," replied Ivan, quickly hanging up.


The woman leant back in her chair, glazing towards a photo on her desk. She smiled as she remembered why she was doing this.


"I hope one day she understands why I'm doing this" thought the woman, leaving herself to think. She decided that Ivan could control the situation at Laboratory 15.


Little did she know, her life was soon to be on a different path.


Return to Laboratory 15:


Ivan approached the Laboratory as he noticed a large crowd had gathered outside. They appeared to be looking inside as Ivan's large frame towered over the crowd of scientists.


"Pathetic, couldn't anyone else have assisted?" thought Ivan, irritation present on his face as he got a closer look at what he was dealing with.


He was not prepared for what he witnessed.


Within the Laboratory, Elizabeth was still punching Doctor Mandrake. She was completely oblivious to the crowd she had gathered...and the blood currently on her hands. Her mind was still singularly focused on making sure the man brought no harm to her animals.


If that meant the worst...so be it.


"Maximilian?" said Ivan, noticing his comrade witnessing the situation. "What's the situation?" asked Ivan.


"I don't know, the girl just started kicking the crap out of Mandrake around ten minutes ago" replied Maximillian. "Her file indicates her name is Elizabeth and...I don't wish to intervene" continued Maximillian.


"Well...where are the others?" asked Ivan.


"Elsewhere," said Maximillian simply. "But, boss, I think you should look at this before you go in," continued Maximillian. He handed Ivan a file who quilt grabbed it, opening it as he skimmed through the pages.


"Wait...this was the plan?" thought Ivan, feeling a sense of ridiculousness about the situation. "They were seriously trying to merge with animal DNA?" continued Ivan. He sped through a few more pages, seeing notes indicating system faults and where the stock would come from.


"Wait...he'd be extracting them from the subjects of that new project? Which according to this would kill them" mumbled Ivan, returning the report to Maximillian. "That's cold Doctor" finished Ivan. While he didn't condemn whatever was going on, he'd be a hypocrite if he did so, he still had some standards.


"Can someone go call the medical team?" demanded Ivan, noticing the crowd didn't seem to take any notice of him. "NOW!" shouted Ivan, finally noticing the crowd scrambling. His large gargantuan frame certainly had its advantages when it came to intimidating people.


"Now, time to get the girl off the pansy" thought Ivan, walking towards the main door into the Laboratory. He pushed the door, entering as he noticed the girl that Maximillian had identified as Elizabeth didn't acknowledge him.


Imagining he wouldn't get any response, he marched forward. He grabbed the girl in his large hands, deciding to forcefully de-escalate the situation. He placed her over his shoulder, keeping her gripped with his hand.


The feeling of being picked up seemed to snap Elizabeth out of her trance. She looked around, noticing she was on someone's shoulder.


"Hey!, put me down!" shouted Elizabeth, beginning to hit, scream and kick as Ivan took no notice. Her blows were doing little damage against his build as he looked around, noticing Mandrake on the floor covered in blood.


"Wow, she's certainly a feisty one," thought Ivan, feeling building respect for the small girl in his clutches. He smiled briefly before returning to a scowl. He knew he had to take Elizabeth to the containment for questioning. However, before he left, he gave Mandrake a tap with his foot. Mandrake seemed to stir, moving slightly.


He still appeared to be alive which made Ivan think for a moment.


"Screw him," thought Ivan, leaving Mandrake to what he saw as a well-deserved fate. "If the Governor has a problem with this, he's only one contract" continued Ivan, heading towards the exit.


"After all, there's always another contract" was Ivan's final thought as he walked towards the containment centre. Elizabeth had given up trying to escape, accepting that Ivan wasn't going to budge. She went limp, wondering where she was being taken to.


However, unknown to the pair, Doctor Mandrake was beginning to come around. He was struggling to breathe as he tried to find strength in his legs. He barely managed to roll over onto his stomach, he used his hands, attempting to push himself up.


After a few attempts, Doctor Mandrake managed to get to his feet. He quickly had to grab something, preventing himself from falling over again. He breathed lightly, finding it difficult to breathe.


"She certainly let me have it" forced out Doctor Mandrake, feeling faint as he got sight of the blood on the ground...his blood. He could feel himself getting increasingly heavy, struggling to keep the energy to stay upright. He could even feel his heart slowing as Doctor Mandrake came to a sudden conclusion.


He was dying.


"No, I will not end this way," thought Doctor Mandrake, struggling to move as a sudden pain came from his leg. He resisted the urge to scream in pain as he concluded that Elizabeth must have broken it in the struggle. His ribs felt broken as if they were stabbing into his lungs as he felt his breathing compressing.


Mandrake stumbled, barely getting over to his computer. He noticed the screen as he eyed the error message.


'REPLICATION FAILED'


"Damn it" cursed Doctor Mandrake internally, barely resisting the urge to slam the desk. He didn't want to break anything else, although it felt like everything was already broken. He then cycled through other options, finding nothing which would help his situation. He could feel himself become even fainter, closer to death.


"Wait, should I do that?" thought Doctor Mandrake. He acknowledged that if he did, nine years of research could be wasted. The process itself would be very risky but right now, it was the greatest chance for his survival. He came to a decision, hoping the Governor would understand why he made it, either now or in the future.


"I have no choice," mumbled Doctor Mandrake, pressing a few numbers on the computer. He noticed the machine whirring to life as he knew the process was beginning. It was then he stumbled over towards his operation table. He barely landed flat as he felt himself becoming fainter.


"Well, we were always struggling for test subjects," thought Doctor Mandrake, noticing the genome being loaded into the syringe. It began to progress towards him, soon to determine Mandrake's fate.


"Well, it's now or never," thought Doctor Mandrake, feeling the syringe inject itself into him.


The genome began to be processed, forcing itself into his bloodstream as he felt a sudden burning sensation come over his body.


"Wait...is it arghh!" shouted out Doctor Mandrake, feeling the burning sensations intensify.


Unknown to the Doctor, he was about to evolve into something new!


The only thing Doctor Mandrake could do was scream out in pain as the burning sensation continued to cover his form. His senses dulled as the sensations spread across his form entirely, leaving him numb to the ever-increasing pain.


Eventually, after what felt like an eternity, the burning sensation that had covered Doctor Mandrake's form had begun to settle down. The process completed itself as the nearby monitor displayed a message in the same large orange text.


'BONDING SUCCESSFUL'


As Doctor Mandrake regained his awareness, he felt odd, strange even. He managed to get himself off the table, feeling newfound strength he wasn't familiar with. He felt uneasy as he stumbled about mindlessly.


Doctor Mandrake felt disoriented as he looked around, things feeling slower than he was accustomed to as he noticed a nearby mirror. He stumbled towards it, looking for a moment before his eyes widened in surprise.


"I must find my master," thought Doctor Mandrake, looking around numbly. He saw the exit to his laboratory as he stumbled once more.


His new body was vastly different to his old one which is something Doctor Mandrake would need to learn over the coming months.


Within the Containment Centre:


Elizabeth stared blankly at the wall of the containment cell she had placed in. She was only just beginning to come down from the rage she had been feeling only half an hour before. Her thoughts were swirling within her mind as she scowled at the wall.


"I...I just can't believe that 'this' is what we've been doing this for" thought Elizabeth. She recalled Mandrake's words as her mood soured once more. "I hope that bastard is dead right now...couldn't have happened to a nicer guy" continued Elizabeth internally. She stared at her hands, feeling a sense of confidence and also...surprise.


"It was...much more enjoyable than expected," thought Elizabeth, smiling for a moment before her thoughts were distracted as she heard a nearby door opening.


"Excuse me, I need to see the captive," said a familiar voice. Elizabeth looked up, noticing Charlotte showing her ID to a nearby guard. The guard nodded as they guided Charlotte to the containment cell that Elizabeth was stored in.


Elizabeth noticed Charlotte pulling up a nearby chair as she sat down. She glared at her friend for a brief moment, it soon faltering into merely a stare as the pair looked at each other.


"Are you ok?" asked Charlotte, her expression sympathetic as she waited for her friend to respond.


Elizabeth thought for a moment, trying to think of the correct words. Eventually, she settled for a brief nod which Charlotte acknowledged.


"Ok, care to explain what happened out there? Was it about your height again...like Jason?" asked Charlotte. Her expression looked angry but, upon closer inspection, one could see the fear within.


"No, well kind of" replied Elizabeth. Upon seeing Charlotte's increased glare, she decided to change tack. "While Mandrake did make a jib about my height, which you know has always been a sore spot for me, it was his plans for the animals we've been collecting" explained Elizabeth, watching as Charlotte sat there quietly. Elizabeth knew that Charlotte was listening intently to what she was saying.


"So...what exactly was Mandrake planning?" asked Charlotte.


"He...he was planning to extract the genomes from our animals. In an attempt to create 'super soldiers.' The process would have killed the animals we've worked so hard to get Charlotte" explained Elizabeth.


Charlotte took the news in. Her expression became puzzled as she continued to think.


"This makes no sense," thought Charlotte, confused as to how the pieces fit together. "Rebecca seems the most obsessed with the Zoo, why would she sign up with someone whose end goal would result in killing them?" continued Charlotte.


As Charlotte continued to think, trying to find any way this made sense. "Perhaps Rebecca's relationship with the Governor isn't as tight-knit as she makes it sound" thought Charlotte, furrowing her brow as she considered other options. "Or there's something she's not telling us...again" continued Charlotte, feeling irritated inside. The words from Doctor Periwinkle from earlier rang in her head once more as she noticed Elizabeth was looking at her funny.


"He's right, I need to stay in my lane. For my sanity, if nothing else" concluded Charlotte, looking back towards her friend.


"You ok Charlotte? You just sorta spaced out for a moment" said Elizabeth, concerned for her friend.


"Sorry, just was in deep thought," replied Charlotte. "Anyway, I need you to understand what our current situation is," started Charlotte. "Mandrake is now, to the best of my knowledge, fighting for his life" continued Charlotte, eyeing Elizabeth's smile which quickly ceased with a glare from Charlotte. "As much as you don't like him, he's one of the Governor's favourites and...given our situation, this doesn't bode well for us" finished Charlotte, staring intensely at her friend, attempting to ensure the message got through.


"Wow..." replied Elizabeth, taking a moment to think through her words. "Demonstrates that we're prisoners in all this...doesn't it?" asked Elizabeth.


"...Yes..." admitted Charlotte. While the pair didn't like their predicament, they both felt they had no choice to go along with it.


Even if it meant going further than they were willing to.


"Ok ladies, sorry to spoil this catch-up but...the Governor would like to speak with you in his office," said Ivan, not caring if he interrupted at any moment.


"Now?" asked Charlotte.


"Now" replied Ivan firmly, pressing a nearby button. The door on Elizabeth's containment cell opened up, allowing her passage as she joined her friend. "You're fine to walk if you don't lash out again," said Ivan, pointing towards Elizabeth who nodded in understanding.


Despite Ivan's intimidating stature, she felt something in his expression. It seemed like...respect.


Nevertheless, Charlotte and Elizabeth wandered towards the Governor's office. Ivan followed behind them, ensuring they wouldn't try to get away. However, the pair had no intention of doing so.


After all, they realized long ago that escaping was an impossibility.


At the Governor's Office:


The large door opened firmly as Elizabeth and Charlotte walked inside the Governor's office. They turned back, noticing Ivan swiftly closing the doors behind them.


"Ah, nice to see you could join us" started the Governor, his voice causing the pair to turn back. "Now...have a seat," said the Governor firmly, leaving no room for negotiations. The pair turned to face each other for a moment, nodding in understanding as they approached the Governor's desk. They sat down on the free chairs available, noticing Rebecca was sitting alongside them.


Elizabeth noticed Rebecca giving her a small glare. After all, Elizabeth was likely responsible for this situation. However, Elizabeth paid it no mind, still feeling no regret at the possibility that she might've killed a man today.


"Can I have your attention please?" ordered the Governor firmly, physically demanding their attention as they all turned to face him. He gazed deeply into Rebecca's eyes, concerning her as it felt like he was penetrating her soul.


"Now...would any of you like to explain yourselves for what's happened today?" said the Governor firmly. His tone was full of fury, even if his expression was unchanged. After a moment of no response from the Managers, he took a deep breath. "No? Then I'll begin" continued the Governor, his tone leaving no room for argument as he faced Rebecca.


"Now Rebecca, when I accepted this project, I expected a certain degree of competence" began the Governor.


"Yes, sir let me..." started Rebecca, a sudden noise interrupting her. A second later, she realised the Governor had slammed his hand down on his desk.


"I wasn't finished" interrupted the Governor, his expression firm as Rebecca sat back. "Good, now as I was saying...I expect you to be able to control your subordinates. What I don't expect is one of them to hospitalise one of my best scientists" continued the Governor, his tone unwavering as the anger coursed through every word he spoke.


"Why are you blaming me for them?" said Rebecca defensively.


"You're the leader of this project...it's your job to lead" replied the Governor coldly. "Now, I'm questioning the viability of your project and whether I should pull my support from you" continued the Governor.


Before the Governor could react, he noticed Rebecca suddenly dash forward. Within seconds, she had materialised a small knife as she grabbed the Governor by the throat with the other hand. She held the knife at his throat, glaring deeply at him.


Unfortunately, the Governor seemed rather nonchalant about this display as he stared back at Rebecca in defiance.


"If you're going to do it...do it" mumbled the Governor, forcing the last words out as Rebecca's hand tightened its grip. Everyone was so overly focused by the pair that they failed to notice the Office door had opened once more.


"Get your hands off my master" demanded a deep voice, almost a growl. This voice distracted Rebecca for a brief moment as she turned to face the origin of the voice.


Elizabeth did the same, taking a moment to stare at the monstrosity in front of her. Her eyes widened in realization as she suddenly felt uneasy. She recognised who they were...or at least formally were.


The malicious smile of familiarity coming from the monster confirmed her suspicions. Elizabeth began to feel fearful at how she was partially responsible for creating the beast that was in front of her.


"Mandrake?" thought Elizabeth, feeling sick to her stomach. She needed to get out of here. Charlotte noticed and tried to comfort her friend.


At that moment, Rebecca felt her hair being pulled back as she was forcefully yanked. She lost her grip on her knife, noticing it being caught in mid-air. Within seconds, Rebecca realised the tables had turned as the Governor held the knife, her knife at her throat.


"Do not try that again" ordered the Governor firmly. He then shifted the knife, throwing Rebecca to the floor. "Now, leave us!" ordered the Governor firmly as Rebecca quickly got up. She quickly glared at him, noticing Elizabeth and Charlotte were already partly out the door.


Rebecca stared back briefly, deciding to leave to fight another day.


"I'll get my revenge soon enough," thought Rebecca, smiling sadistically as her thoughts focused on the upcoming school trip.


And how much the Governor valued the children who would be attending.


The Governor watched the group leaving on the camera he had set up across his compound. He breathed out, content that they had gone as he returned his attention to the strange being that was in front of him.


"Master?" said the being, the Governor quickly recognised who the person was in front of him.


"Good to see you old friend, you've certainly 'grown' since we last saw each other" replied the Governor, chuckling softly. Mandrake chuckled likewise, both enjoying a brief moment of humour.


"I guess I have but...this just feels so unusual" replied Doctor Mandrake, still stumbling slightly as he walked.


"I'm sure you'll master it in time," said the Governor. "After all, it's a large and sudden change" continued the Governor, leaving his desk as he walked closer towards his friend.


"My loyalty to you will never change," said Doctor Mandrake, 'smiling' as the Governor nodded in understanding.


"Good to hear, now...I'll inform Doctor Hole of your new abilities as we plan our way forward," stated the Governor, walking towards the large window in his office that overlooked the city. Doctor Mandrake followed him, taking paces as his new form was already beginning to feel tolerable.


"So...what happens now?" asked Doctor Mandrake, noticing the Governor still staring outside the window.


The Governor looked over the city...his city. He smiled as he began to consider the projects that he had planned for the city to ensure a brighter future...for himself, of course.


"Now...the real work begins" replied the Governor, looking over his city once more. His playground, to do with as he wished.


And no one, not even his worthy rival, would take that away from him!