New Zoo (Original Series by Wallace111)

New-Zoo-Manta Rays

It was early in the morning as the Spirit meditated over the Loch it had originated from.


"Ok, now if I was a sustainable food source...where would I be?" thought the Spirit, feeling the energy from the residents of the Zoo entering it. It felt itself becoming rejuvenated as it continued to feed, consequences to the animals be damned.


However, for some strange reason, it could feel something strange in its mind. Something it couldn't recognise.


"Why...does this feel...wrong?" wondered the Spirit, trying to reconcile the strange sensation within. Unable to understand what was going on, the Spirit dismissed the notion, continuing to feed. After all, it needed more energy than it was willing to admit.


Since its confrontation with Charlotte the previous day, the Spirit had been feeling rather famished. It considered that showing its true form might have been a mistake as it had felt starved for much longer than it had initially anticipated. Fearing it had overcompensated, the Spirit had been rather gluttonous throughout the rest of the day.


Fortunately, it had returned to some semblance of normalcy earlier this morning. However, the experience had caused the Spirit to focus primarily on its new plan.


To get a sustainable energy source.


"C'mon, something has to be around here somewhere" fumed the Spirit, feeling further agitated as its turquoise colour began to shift to red. Despite its attempts to calm itself down, it found itself becoming redder and redder with each passing moment.


"I mean, how could Rebecca make the Zoo work until this point if she never..." thought the Spirit, stopping mid-sentence. It felt a distinct sensation passing through it. It opened its eyes, smiling with satisfaction as it did so. It could sense a powerful magical signature, something which it hoped could provide the sustainable food source it craved.


"Finally" stated the Spirit, satisfied that it's searching over the last few hours had paid off. It licked its lips in anticipation, already looking forward to its new food as it teleported away.


After all, Charlotte would be arriving shortly and the Spirit needed to be ready to continue its revenge.


Within The Main Hallway:


The Spirit looked around curiously at where it had ended up. It looked like the Main Hallway but something seemed...off. Everything seemed more 'sparkly' as the Spirit continued to browse the strange realm.
"What is this place?" wondered the Spirit. Everything seemed so similar yet so different as it was trying to make sense of the uncertain realm it had ended up in. It continued to float down the Main Hallway, still noticing the animals within their enclosures. The colourations seemed off about the whole realm as the Spirit couldn't help but feel suspicious.


Suddenly, a beam flashed beside it as the Spirit barely dodged the assault. It looked around once again, failing to spot the beam's origin.


"Maybe this was a mistake," thought the Spirit, still trying to make sense of the uncertain realm. It didn't need this, especially since it wasn't yet back to full strength.


"Oh look...it can think" stated a voice, its sarcastic tone vibrating across the Main Hallway.


The Spirit looked around once more, trying and failing to notice the origin of the voice. At that, it closed its eyes, feeling the sensation of magic passing through it.


As it did so, a strange entity began to show itself. A small magenta glow began to rush for the Spirit, human features emerging as it got closer and closer.


Having sensed its approach, it was child's play for the Spirit to fire back at it. The entity hissed as the Spirit's beam struck it head-on. Before it could react further, however, the entity was grabbed, caught in some strange field as it was thrown head-first onto the concrete floor of the Main Hallway.


"Found you" stated the Spirit bluntly. Its smile widened, becoming sadistic as it got a better look at the entity that had tried to attack it.


The entity was several shades of magenta, resembling...Rebecca. The Spirit could recognise what appeared to be Rebecca's long black hair reaching down to the entity's waist. It appeared to be wearing the standard zoo uniform as it glared back at the Spirit through bright magenta eyes. The entity appeared to have no legs or feet, its body stopping at a pair of shorts.


The entity looked up at the Spirit and, regaining its 'footing', made itself upright as it looked back at the Spirit.


"Guess I'm not that good at hide and seek" stated the entity, trying to lighten the mood. However, the Spirit's glare caused the atmosphere to die down as the 'sparkly' nature of the Main Hallway began to dissipate. "I take it this is not a cordial visit?" asked the entity, the Spirit making only a small nod in response.


"I must say...you're not what I expected," said the Spirit, its tone unwavering as it glared at the entity before it. "Now...state your name and why you're here?" continued the Spirit, its tone demanding as it held up one of its hands. It began to glow green, indicating the Spirit meant business.


The entity only shook its head in response. "The name's Calamity...and I'm the magic that causes this Zoo to function," said Calamity, simply. Her accent was identical to Rebecca's, eyeing the Spirit warningly. She held up her hand, a magenta glow coming from it as the pair of spirits prepared for another standoff.


"May I ask you something?" said Calamity.


"What?!" replied the Spirit, growing quickly bored of the situation. It just wanted to feed, damn it!


"Why are we fighting? I mean...we don't have to be enemies" continued Calamity.


"Of course we do, you resemble Rebecca, you're basically Rebecca and Rebecca needs to go down for what she did to Elizabeth!" shouted the Spirit, its hand charging up as it prepared to fire.


"But I'm not Rebecca," replied Calamity simply. At that, she placed her hands over her head. But if you insist on taking blood...go ahead" finished Calamity bitterly.


The Spirit eyed Calamity on the ground. It held the blast in its hand. It would be easy, easy to wipe out this...this threat.


Yet as it continued to stare at Calamity, it couldn't help but sense...pity.


"What?" thought the Spirit, finding itself hesitant. It thought for a moment longer, then let the blast wither in its hand. "Get up," said the Spirit, staring as Calamity placed her hands down.


"I knew you'd come around," said Calamity, her tone warmer than since they'd started. "Now, how about we start anew?" offered Calamity, holding her hand out for the Spirit.


"Well this is unexpected," thought the Spirit, staring at the hand sceptically. "Especially after she attacked me" continued the Spirit internally, still wondering whether to accept.


"Well, you did come into my domain first" stated Calamity, catching the Spirit off guard. She tapped her head tauntingly, the message clear as crystal to the Spirit. "I'm not used to having guests...especially ones who planned to 'eat' me" continued Calamity, her expression showing anger for a brief moment.


The Spirit looked a little sheepish, annoyed at how it could have been blindsided so easily. In hindsight, it should have been obvious that a fellow spirit might have the ability to read its mind.


"I'll take your expression as an apology," said Calamity, her brow furrowing. "But for now, perhaps I can show you something?" offered Calamity, her hand still stretched outwards.


The Spirit stared at the hand for a moment, wondering whether it could trust Calamity. After a moment longer, it shook its head. "Ok, I trust you," said the Spirit simply, accepting the handshake.


As it did, the area around them appeared to warp around them. The Spirit looked around with confusion, trying to make sense of what was going on. Calamity, by contrast, had a peaceful look on her face.


Within moments, the pair had found themselves high above in the sky. Upon closer inspection, the Spirit looked down, noticing the New Zoo below.


"What...where are we Calamity?" asked the Spirit.


"This...this is where the magic happens" replied Calamity joyfully. She raised her hand, a magenta glow coming from it as she did so.


The Spirit looked carefully, noticing something seemed to be shaking. The shaking intensified as it noticed something seemed to be forcing its way out of the ground.


"Wait...what are you doing?" asked the Spirit.


"Showing you my power" replied Calamity simply, watching intently as what appeared to be a curved horn emerged, then another and another. Soon, many different horns had emerged with the New Zoo at its core. The horns glowed varying shades of magenta as they began to close around the New Zoo. They seemed to be forming a hand, as if they were forming a tight grip around the New Zoo, showcasing the extent of Calamity's control.


Waves pulsated out of the emerging horns, the glowing beginning to seep across the Zoo. Calamity's smile widened as the glowing ceased, happy to be able to finally share this with someone.


"What...what are these formations?" asked the Spirit, trying to make sense of anything at this point.


"They're part of me," replied Calamity, staring at the horns once more. "Rebecca created me to guard the Zoo, transform the prey and yet..." said Calamity, her smile fading as despair began to replace the joy. "Despite all this...she's ashamed of me" continued Calamity. "After all, why else would she be leaving me to starve?" finished Calamity.


The Spirit stayed still, taking in this new revelation. Rebecca dared to leave one of its kind to starve? This filled the Spirit with further motivation as it stared at Calamity, a new possibility entering its mind.


"Well...perhaps we can help one another," said the Spirit, a smile forming on its face.


"I suppose we can," replied Calamity, having already sensed the Spirit's intentions.


"You can help me get revenge on her and Charlotte, for Elizabeth," said the Spirit, offering its hand. Calamity stared at the hand curiously, considering her options.


"Well, Rebecca hasn't been treating me well and Charlotte...thought she could control me" thought Calamity, her mind made up as she accepted the Spirit's handshake.


At that, the pair found themselves back in the Main Hallway. They looked around, noticing that the Zoo seemed to be back to normal.


"I suppose we should get ready?" asked the Spirit.


"Agreed, Charlotte will be here soon" replied Calamity, nodding before fading away.


The Spirit took one more moment, looking around the Main Hallway before fading away as well.


After all, they had a trap to set!


Later That Morning:


Charlotte wandered under the stone archways of the New Zoo. She looked around the Main Hallway, feeling the hairs on the back of her neck rising. For some reason she couldn't remember, the Zoo, which once felt comforting, now felt rather intimidating.


"What happened yesterday?" thought Charlotte, still failing to recall. It was as if the day had been erased from her memory. This had caused her no end of grief the previous night, although it was too soon to confirm that her mental lapse was something serious.


Nevertheless, It had worried Charlotte to no end. Especially as it had proved to be rather painful trying to recall the day before. It was as if her brain was trying to climb out of her skull


"I guess though, I should leave this till later on" mused Charlotte, trying to calm herself as she recalled her reason for being here today.


Regardless of her mental anguish, Rebecca had ordered her to organise the next pair of interns due today. Charlotte frowned, feeling Rebecca's skittish behaviour had now overstayed its welcome.


"Still, it allows me to continue my investigation unopposed," said Charlotte, a smug smile coming to her face. She eyed the applications of the upcoming interns...and new additions. She noticed the pictures and, recalling them from Erica's yearbook, concluded they were in the same class.


"Shouldn't we mix it up a little?" wondered Charlotte, feeling slightly concerned. "After all, wouldn't it be easy to spot the connection between all the interns?" continued Charlotte. She couldn't help but feel uneasy about the plan. "This isn't what I had in mind when suggesting this to Rebecca!" thought Charlotte irritably, recalling that it was her discovery of Angelica's phone which had inspired this plan.


However, Charlotte didn't know that all of the interns had come from the same class. They really didn't need another incident so soon. Especially following the incident with the school children. It was as if Rebecca was purposely inviting more conflict to the Zoo by insisting on continuing this route despite Charlotte's attempts to encourage variety.


"I mean, it wouldn't be so hard just to..." started Charlotte, stopping as she felt an unusual chill in the air. She felt her sense of unease return as she looked around the Main Hallway once more. "What...what is going on?" wondered Charlotte, feeling curious yet uncertain as she decided to depart from the Main Hallway.


After all, she needed to check up on the Petting Zoo. Make sure her intended plans for it were on schedule.


Unknown to Charlotte, she had been watched. The Spirit and Calamity eyed the woman as the Spirit couldn't help but smile in satisfaction with its handiwork.


It appeared that it was succeeding at what it was planning to do.


Get revenge for the mistreatment Elizabeth had endured.


"Excellent" murmured the Spirit, rubbing its hands together in satisfaction. It ignored Calamity's odd stares as the Spirit pondered its next move.


"So...what's the plan?, fearless leader?" asked Calamity, smiling as she raised her hand. A magenta glow came over it as the Main Hallway began to sparkle momentarily. The Spirit eyed Calamity with confusion, feeling an unusual sensation within.


"What are you doing?" stated the Spirit, raising its hand as it pointed directly at Calamity. It began to glow, silently threatening Calamity not to try anything funny.


"Just...getting the rust off" replied Calamity, her tone reassuring as she continued her work. The Spirit glanced down, sensing no immediate change in the temperament or composure of the animals. It placed its hand down, de-escalating as it concluded that Calamity was not interfering with its meal tickets.


The tense atmosphere was then interrupted as the Spirit felt its hunger emerging once more. It suppressed the feeling, trying to not show weakness in front of Calamity. After all, the Spirit couldn't help but remain suspicious of her.


"I guess we should continue your plan," commented Calamity, noticing the Spirit nod. It was at that point, that Calamity closed her eyes for a moment. It smiled, opening its eyes as she stared back at the Spirit. "She's at the Petting Zoo, suppose we should pay her a visit?" said Calamity, not waiting as she teleported away.


The Spirit stared back at where Calamity had been. Its hunger was becoming more and more difficult to ignore as it couldn't help but remain suspicious of Calamity. Something just wasn't adding up.


"Perhaps...I shouldn't have gone all theatrical on Charlotte" thought the Spirit, shaking its head as an unknown feeling crossed its mind. "I feel like I'm...slipping away again" continued the Spirit, recalling how Calamity had seemed rather...interested in it.


Come to think of it, the Spirit hadn't sensed Calamity at all since its awakening.


Considering that fact, the Spirit teleported away. After all, Charlotte still needed to pay regardless of Calamity's involvement.


At the Petting Zoo:


Charlotte, oblivious to the plans the spirits had in store for her, was currently looking around the Petting Zoo. She smiled with satisfaction, happy that it was, slowly but surely, becoming more lively. She was hoping to add more residents to it soon.


"I suppose I should check on the current residents," thought Charlotte, noticing the large pasture in the corner of her eye. She couldn't help but have an odd feeling of deja vu as thoughts of the future crossed her mind.


"Have I...what's going on?" wondered Charlotte, finding herself further confused as nothing seemed to be making sense. Little did she know, very soon, things would only start making less sense.


In the Nearby Barn:


Within one of the nearby animal stalls, the newest addition to the New Zoo was currently snoozing away. The newfound cow seemed rather peaceful as it seemed to be awakening from its daze.


As Marie continued to wake up from her first night in her new form, she could feel a major feeling of discomfort between her legs. Her bell rang slightly as she shifted her much larger body weight. Marie was beginning to realise that her udder must have filled up overnight as the discomfort was continuing to increase.


"Golly, I wish someone told me about how irritating an udder could be" thought Marie, finding herself surprisingly quicker to frustration than she was used to expecting. She shook her head, her bell ringing once more as she dismissed the notion as the influence of her new bovine instincts.


"Still, I hope someone is nearby to help me. I'd hate to have to hold this in all day" mumbled Marie, her voice coming out as a soft lowing. She could feel the discomfort only increasing as her udder began to feel like it was about to burst!


"I...I, oh fuck this is so painful!" lowed Marie angrily, focusing too much on her udder to realise her lowing had increased considerably, emanating beyond the barn she was currently in.


Near the Sheep Pasture:


Charlotte was currently eyeing the flock as she noticed the small lamb formerly known as Clara seemed rather enthusiastic about her new family.


"Good to see the little one is still happy" mumbled Charlotte, eyeing Angelica for a moment. The sheep stared blankly at Charlotte, feeling something...unusual in her brain.


Angelica stared at Charlotte as if attempting to recall her from somewhere. She seemed oddly familiar as Angelica felt something in her brain, something didn't seem right! Her eyes seemed to be becoming more clear...more human.


She recalled something she didn't recognise. It was a small boy. He had soft brown hair, his favourite black t-shirt, yes..he seemed so familiar, he was her...


A sudden bleat caught Angelica off guard. She turned, noticing the bleat originating from her mother. Charlotte had refilled their feed troughs only moments ago and it was now time to feed.


As Angelica walked towards the trough, she could feel her mind simplifying. Unknown to her, the Zoo's magic was reinforcing itself in her mind, burying the human memories that tried to push to the surface. Her eyes went blank once more as she stuck her muzzle into the trough, munching on the pellets within.


"Well, she seemed rather sheepish," thought Charlotte, chuckling slightly at her joke. Still, she was curious as to what had happened there. Was it possible that Angelica was beginning to remember who she was?


Before Charlotte could focus on this further, however, she heard loud lowing coming from the barn. "Wait...that's odd," thought Charlotte, confusion coming over her as she checked her checklist. She was further confused as she didn't notice any ticked-off animals that sounded like that.


Besides, Vannessa had seemed rather stubborn about going into the barn.


"Fine...she can stay out here for all I care," said Charlotte, her tone frustrated at the newfound Jenny's stubbornness. Regardless, she pushed the thought from her mind, deciding to investigate the barn.


After all, any new potential addition was a welcome one. However, as Charlotte neared the barn, she couldn't help but feel her sense of deja vu returning.


Return To The Barn:


Marie looked around frustratingly, continuing to low as her udder was becoming more and more unbearable. She couldn't help but low louder as she felt herself becoming more and more irritated.


"I mean seriously...where is anybody?!" lowed Marie, stamping her hoof on the ground in frustration. Fortunately, her prayers would be answered as she noticed the doors to the barn being forced open.


Charlotte looked around, trying to find the source of the lowing. As Marie lowed once more, Charlotte nodded to herself as she approached a nearby animal stall. Within moments, she found the noisy intruder, staring blankly at the dairy cow within momentarily.


"Ok...we have a cow now?" said Charlotte, still trying to work out where this newest addition came from. Something seemed oddly familiar like it was just beyond her grasp as Charlotte felt the strange sense of deja vu becoming stronger than ever.


She looked at the bell around the cow's neck, noticing a name on it. The name seemed familiar as if Charlotte knew the former human who was now the cow for the Petting Zoo. She eyed the name closer, making out the letters.


"Marie?" mumbled Charlotte, feeling the name emanating in her mind. Something seemed oddly familiar about that name. However, Charlotte's mind was suddenly snapped out of its concentration as Marie's lowing became increasingly frustrated.


"Come on! I only changed yesterday. You can't have possibly forgotten about me already!" shouted Marie, her lowing increasing in volume as she noticed Charlotte seemed rather...intimidated. Upon seeing this, Marie calmed down, her human mind taking control back from her bovine instincts.


After all, if she wanted to be milked, she would need to be more cooperative. She felt sullen, ceasing her tantrum as she lowered her head.


"Will you....Get On With It Please?" begged Marie, her udder having become agonising. Fortunately, Charlotte had seemed to work out why Marie was so frustrated.


"Oh, I see what you want. You need to be milked" started Charlotte, looking away as she noticed a bucket and stool on the other side of the barn."Just wait there, I'll be right back," said Charlotte as she left to go and get them, promptly returning to Marie as she opened the stall.


After motioning Marie forward, Charlotte sat down on the stool as she proceeded to milk the new cow. Marie couldn't help but bellow throughout as the relief was immediate.


"OH, god I needed this!" bellowed Marie, the pleasure was immediate and euphoric as Charlotte delicately handled her teats. She continued to milk Marie, each squirt more pleasant than the last as Marie couldn't help but bellow her approval.


Soon enough, Charlotte had finished milking Marie and had placed her milk to one side. She then stared curiously at the heifer before proceeding to stroke Marie's muzzle.


"So...where'd you come from girl?" asked Charlotte, still curious as to where the cow had come from. Marie barely paid any attention, enjoying the affection she was receiving as Charlotte scratched her muzzle.


However, a pair of small glows had caught Marie's eye in the corner of the barn. While she recognised the green glow, she didn't recognise the magenta one. However, she couldn't help but feel something was off as she felt a tingling in her mind.


"I hope you're enjoying yourself," said the Spirit, its message ringing directly within Marie's mind. Fortunately, now with her udder empty, it was little issue for Marie to maintain her composure as Charlotte had continued to scratch her muzzle. "I hope I didn't scare you yesterday" continued the Spirit, still confusing Marie for a brief moment. She didn't know whether to be scared or intrigued at the interest she was receiving from what she believed was responsible for her transformation. However, Marie dismissed the notion, figuring that if the Spirit was going to be malicious to her...it would've done so already.


After all, she had no idea what the Spirit was capable of. Therefore, there was no point in making assumptions.


"No, you didn't scare me," thought Marie, attempting to communicate with the Spirit. She couldn't help but feel curious at this 'mental chat' as thoughts of her friends crossed her mind briefly.


"Good" stated the Spirit simply. Marie focused her attention on the Spirit, oblivious to the fact that Charlotte had ceased stroking her. In fact, Charlotte had become motionless.


In reality, Calamity was making her move. She began to influence Charlotte, small wisps of energy emanating from the glow as Charlotte began to walk away.


"Charlotte? Where is she going?" asked Marie, snapping out of her state as she noticed Charlotte walking away.


"Don't worry, we just want to talk to her," said an unfamiliar voice. Marie felt uneasy but oddly...compliant to the suggestion as she returned her attention to the Spirit.


The green glow seemed to flash red for a moment, as if angry at what its companion had just done. However, as Charlotte left the barn, heading for parts unknown, the Spirit returned its attention to Marie.


"Is there anything you wish to ask?" offered the Spirit, eyeing the mental picture of Marie. It resembled her human self, which was currently eyeing the Spirit curiously.


"Are my friends here? Megan and Erica? Are they alright?" thought Marie, sending her message as the Spirit thought for a moment before responding.


"Yes, they are" started the Spirit, taking another moment to think. "Erica still has her memories but Megan doesn't. I could return them to her if you'd like, consider it a favour for a friend" replied the Spirit, Marie having to acknowledge its smile was rather cute.


Marie momentarily considered the offer the Spirit had made her. It took only a moment for her to come to a decision.


"Yes please, return Megan's memories," said Marie, noticing the Spirit nodding in agreement.


"Ok, I'll arrange that at my nearest convenience," said the Spirit as it sensed Marie's joy. It felt oddly warm, the positive emotion was still unfamiliar to the developing Spirit as it looked back, noticing Calamity was gone.


"Oh, looks like I can't stay," said the Spirit, slightly irritated at Calamity not even bothering to announce her departure. "But first..." continued the Spirit, raising its hand. The large doors to the connected pasture opened up, allowing the new cow fresh green grass to graze for the rest of the day.


The Spirit quickly waved a farewell, teleporting away as it sensed where Calamity was.


"Now onto the next phase of my plan for you Charlotte, you'll pay for what you did to Elizabeth that day." said the Spirit, eager to continue its revenge. It only hoped that Calamity hadn't had all the fun by herself first.


On the other hand, Marie, lacking anything else to do, walked into the large pasture the Spirit had opened the door to.


After all, the grass truly looked tasty to her new bovine appetite.


The Nightmare Begins:


Soon, Charlotte arrived at the Aquarium, her mind still in a trance as a magenta glow hovered precariously over her. Tiny wisps of energy continued to emanate from it, reaching down like the tentacles of an octopus about to ensnare Charlotte within their grasp.


It stopped suddenly as the Spirit appeared, its green glow alongside the magenta colour as the pair just seemed to stare at each other.


"What are you doing?" questioned the Spirit, its tone sharp as Calamity seemed rather nonchalant about the situation.


"I was about to get 'our' revenge" replied Calamity, accentuating the 'our' in the sentence.


"I give the orders here...not you," said the Spirit firmly, the green glow flashing strongly as the pair of spirits were effectively glaring at each other.


In their distraction, Charlotte seemed to be coming out of her trance. She blinked a few times, her thoughts returning to her as she got a quick glance at her surroundings.


"How...how did I get here?" wondered Charlotte, failing to recall the last few minutes as she found herself in the Aquarium. It was still rather bare, reminding her that the other managers and herself had neglected it since the earlier controversy with the school children.


As the pair of spirits continued to bicker, Charlotte found herself near the Blue Shark enclosure. She looked inside, feeling a sense of guilt coming over her as she eyed the resident within. Memories of the school trip began to wash over her as she felt the guilt of throwing her best friend under the bus coming back to haunt her.


Just like it had in all her nightmares recently.


"It...it'll all be worth it," thought Charlotte, noting that she had to do it to maintain her cover. Rebecca needed to think she was loyal to her...even at the expense of her best friend. Still, it was proving to be more and more difficult as Charlotte's guilt threatened to overwhelm her.


During her revelation, Calamity and the Spirit hadn't stopped their petty bickering. In their distracted states, they had even both taken on their physical forms.


"I thought we were going to be a team!" argued Calamity, frustrated at the Spirit's seeming lack of teamwork.


"Says the Spirit who went off and did her own thing!" argued the Spirit back, changing red for a brief moment as it watched Calamity shrug her shoulders.


"I was going to wait for you," stated Calamity weakly.


"Like hell, this is my revenge!" shouted the Spirit, noticing Calamity becoming submissive once more. "Your role in this is to do as I tell you...understood!" continued the Spirit, only paying minor attention to Calamity pointing in a nearby direction.


"What are you pointing at now?!" said the Spirit accusingly, turning to look as it noticed Charlotte was staring directly at the pair of spirits.


As Charlotte glanced at the pair of spirits, she couldn't help but feel...terrified. She turned to run, noticing the entrance to the Aquarium not too far off.


As she ran, the Spirit causally raised its hand. A small green glow flashed within it as the entrance suddenly ceased to exist.


"Wait...what the hell is going on?" thought Charlotte, turning back as she found herself trapped. She noticed the turquoise-coloured spirit seemed to be staring daggers at her while the magenta seemed rather indifferent. She noticed the magenta spirit motion its arms at her as if to indicate to the turquoise spirit to do with Charlotte as it wished.


However, before she could properly focus, Charlotte felt weak in her legs. She fell to her knees, her stomach churning as it felt like it was tying itself in knots. She couldn't resist tears escaping the corner of her eyes as she continued to wriggle towards where the entrance used to be, hoping that, by some miracle, it would appear.


"What...what are you?" questioned Charlotte, the fear apparent in her voice. The pain was becoming overwhelming, driving her into convulsions. Her vision was blurring as she slowly began to lose awareness of her surroundings.


Meanwhile, the Spirit was watching eagerly. It smiled at its handiwork as it continued to observe Charlotte, its grin getting ever wider and more and more malicious.


"You're getting what you deserve Charlotte," said the Spirit as it hopped with amusement towards Charlotte. It tapped its finger on Charlotte's forehead, a soft green glow coming from it as it smiled. The Spirit's magic ensured that Charlotte would hear the words of the Spirit regardless of her current state.


After all, the Spirit didn't want Charlotte to miss her own trial.


"You're very amusing, you know that?" started the Spirit, its tone venomous as it continued to eye Charlotte. Like a predator stalking its prey, its smile widened, its teeth sharpening for a moment before the Spirit forced them back.


After all, it couldn't afford to overextend itself again.


"So far, you and Rebecca have blamed Elizabeth for all the problems you've encountered ever since you started this Zoo" continued the Spirit, continuing to eye Charlotte with disdain. "Despite this, you have done the exact same with no consequences. YOU transformed Casey and his band when you weren't supposed to, YOU transformed the children with Elizabeth, YOU cannot even comprehend the tackiness of your Petting Zoo sign!" shouted the Spirit as it stopped for a moment, letting what was said sink in for the pathetic woman before it.


"Yet....despite the above, you criticise Elizabeth for changing Jason and threw her under the bus to take the blame for the school children," said the Spirit, scowling at Charlotte before pacing around her. "But I guess I can't blame you..." said the Spirit, examining her thoughts, beginning to search through her memories.


After all, it would need to erase this encounter from them as well.


At this point, Calamity was just eyeing the pair as she began to eye the pair eagerly. Especially the Spirit. She continued to eye its power enviously, wishing that she could have it for herself.


Fortunately, if all went to plan, Calamity would soon be getting her wish.
The Spirit didn't notice Calamity's thoughts. Or if it did, it didn't acknowledge them. After all, its focus was entirely on Charlotte and continuing its revenge.


"Why do you feel a need to prove yourself to Rebecca?" asked the Spirit, seeming confused along with angry. "Honestly, you invest too much into Rebecca, you shouldn't value your wellbeing this much on one person" finished the Spirit, stopping as it bent down toward Charlotte's ear.


"Besides....We both know you weren't her first choice" said the Spirit as it vanished, its sadistic laughter vibrating off the walls of the Aquarium. Calamity disappeared alongside the Spirit, clearly delighted at what she had witnessed.


Moments later, Charlotte felt her vision returning. She blinked, focus returning to her eyes. As they regained focus, her eyes darted around, not finding any sign of...what was she looking for again?


"Wait...I...I can't remember?!" said Charlotte frantically, struggling to understand her recent episodes of memory loss. She couldn't help but weep as she felt further worry come over her.


Just how bad was this going to get? Would she soon forget everything about herself...everyone she cared about?


Charlotte only snapped out of her state as she heard a distant beeping. She quickly looked around, her eyes so drawn to her watch. Upon closer inspection, she realised it was nearly time for the new interns to show up. Charlotte attempted to quickly regain her composure as she looked around, once again noticing the emptiness of the Aquarium.


"I think today, I'll add to the Aquarium. It could definitely benefit from it" thought Charlotte quickly as she left towards the entrance, planning to introduce herself to the new arrivals.


After all, anywhere was better than her for the time being.


Meanwhile, the Spirit was smiling as it was looking forward to its next meal. Calamity wasn't far off, observing the Spirit as it noticed something strange seemed to be occurring.


For a brief moment, the Spirit's form temporarily faded before returning as its eyes widened with realisation.


"I'm struggling to keep my physical form, I need to gather more energy before I can continue with what I've planned. I'll leave Charlotte alone, for now, I need to spare what I can" thought the Spirit reluctantly as it faded away, out of sight, out of mind.


Unknown to the Spirit at that moment, Calamity was smiling. Everything seemed to be going to plan as she smiled wickedly.


It appeared as if her next meal would be absolutely divine as Calamity could feel that the Spirit's time was running out.


At the Entrance:


It was approaching midday as two teenage girls wandered under the stone arches of the New Zoo. They looked around the Main Hallway curiously, the blond of the pair noticing a Map Stand nearby.


Chloe dashed onwards to the stand with a spring in her step, her short blond hair bouncing slightly with her quick movements. She took a small, longing glance at the other girl behind her. Her warm brown eyes stared back at her friend...her best friend.


"I hope she's noticing this" thought Chloe, her mischievous expression betraying her true intentions. Nevertheless, she motioned for her friend to follow her. As she arrived at the Map Stand, she picked up one of the maps within. She opted to wait there for her friend, noticing she was slowly but surely, moving towards her.


"Probably enjoying the view," thought Chloe, resisting the urge to laugh.


Meanwhile, Zoe was moving slowly towards her best friend, her long black hair fluttering in the cool zoo breeze. She eyed the Main Hallway suspiciously, fearing something untoward could happen. She stared down at her arms, eyeing the tattoos which coated them.


"Wouldn't be the first time" thought Zoe, shaking her head to force the childhood memories out. After all, what was important was the here and now. Nevertheless, Zoe had been concerned about applying for the Zoo. She had heard the rumours and was concerned for her friend Anna.


"I hope she's ok," thought Zoe, feeling a sense of concern for her other best friend. After all, she was the only one who was comfortable talking about her past to...except Chloe, if she had actually listened. "I know that Terry's been particularly concerned about her" continued Zoe internally, her mind focused on the others who had also recently vanished from her class.


"Now that I think about it, there's been no sign of Caitlyn, Erica, Zara and probably others. Our class size is certainly getting smaller. At this rate, we might merge with another class for space" thought Zoe as she arrived at the Map Stand, taking a small but long gaze at Chloe who turned around, map in hand as she appeared to be eager to show it to her.


"Look around Zoe, they definitely seem to be expanding. They have various Big Cats and Marine Animals. They even have a Reptile House, Aviary and Aquarium. I'm telling you, Zoe, working here is going to be so much fun" exclaimed Chloe, the joy evident in her voice.


Zoe stared at Chloe, honestly uninterested in the Zoo due to the rumours making her feel uneasy. Despite her unease, Zoe was determined to protect Chloe, her friend. In her daze, Zoe had stared for a little longer than she had planned to, admiring Chloe's features while Chloe appeared to be oblivious to it all.


"Damn it Chloe...why do you always have to be so cute?" thought Zoe, her cheeks blushing as a sudden thought crossed her mind. Fortunately, she was able to suppress it before Chloe had noticed...or so she thought.


Chloe had, in fact, noticed the attention that Zoe was giving her. A small grin came over her face which she used the Map to hide. After all, she was fully aware of Zoe's traumatic past...it was clearly visible if you knew where to look. However, she had too much love and respect for Zoe to force her to confess. Besides, confessing them now might become particularly awkward.


"Besides...it'll be better for Zoe if she does it herself," thought Chloe, continuing to examine the map with enthusiasm.


As Zoe continued to look around the Main Hallway, she noticed someone approaching them. She had short red hair, glasses that covered her eyes, obscuring them from Zoe's sight and appeared to be wearing a zoo uniform, indicating she was a member of staff.


Alarm bells were already ringing in Zoe's head. Her unease at this situation was increasing tenfold. She walked up to Chloe, feeling protective of her, as Charlotte approached the pair. By this point, Chloe had placed the map in her jacket pocket as she noticed Charlotte.


"Hello, I'm Chloe," said Chloe enthusiastically as she shook Charlotte's hand, the exaggeration causing Charlotte to become slightly disoriented. Zoe continued to stare at Charlotte, still suspicious regarding the woman in front of them. However, she chuckled internally at Zoe's antics.


It was just another thing to love about her.


"Hello, I'm Charlotte. I'm one of the managers at this Zoo. I have been informed that you have applied to work here" said Charlotte, eyeing the pair as she awaited an answer. She gave a small smile of satisfaction as the pair nodded, confirming her suspicions.


"And you are?" asked Charlotte, staring at Zoe. Zoe was staring at her suspiciously, taking an occasional glance back at Chloe. It didn't take long for Charlotte to realise that Chloe appeared important to the girl.
"Perhaps, I can use that to my advantage," thought Charlotte, noticing the girl was still staring at her like she was the plague. In response, Charlotte began to return a glare of her own, irritated at the attitude the girl was showing her.


The pair stared each other down for a moment as if trying they were two predators battling for dominance. Zoe got a glance at Chloe, noticing her expression changing to a frown. At this, Zoe backed down.


"Zoe," said Zoe, finally introducing herself. Charlotte nodded, quickly confirming the names. At this, she began to walk away, guiding the pair towards the Aquarium, eager to get underway.


As the group wandered through the Main Hallway, the pair took note of the different species within their enclosures. Chloe looked and beamed with obvious enthusiasm whereas Zoe never took her eyes off of Charlotte, still unsure regarding the woman in front of her.


As the group wandered deeper into the Main Hallway, a small green and magenta glow flashed slightly. The Spirit and Calamity had observed the entire interaction and the Spirit had begun to hatch a new plan.


For the sake of a better meal, it was going to make Zoe and Chloe confess their love for one another.


At the Aquarium:


"Well...here we are" stated Charlotte, motioning as she showed the pair the contents of the Aquarium.


What little there was anyway.


"It's rather empty" stated Zoe bluntly as she stared at Charlotte suspiciously. Charlotte glared in return behind her glasses, Zoe's scepticism beginning to become grating. However, she kept her composure, trying to stay strong after her earlier episode.


On the other hand, Chloe had zoned out of their conversation between Zoe and Charlotte, finding the Blue Shark within the Aquarium much more interesting. She smiled and chuckled with joy as she admired the majestic creature.


"C'mon Zoe...don't mess this up for us," thought Chloe, turning back towards her friend. As she did, she couldn't help but blush. Zoe did look rather attractive under the glow of the light coming from above.


Chloe sighed in relief as Zoe turned away from Charlotte. Zoe began to look around, gravitating towards an empty enclosure.


The enclosure consisted of an empty tank that had what resembled a tropical island in the centre surrounded by a massive body of water in a circle. Zoe noticed a nearby sign indicating that the enclosure was intended for Manta Rays.


"Manta Rays?" thought Zoe, still suspicious but finding herself becoming more interested. "Never thought they'd have something so...exotic" continued Zoe, shooting a quick glance towards Chloe.

With her attention diverted, Zoe failed to notice Charlotte watching her with suspicion. It was then an idea came into Charlotte's mind as she eyed the Manta Ray enclosure.


After all, she had already planned to add to the Aquarium. After all, it currently felt rather bland and could use something more exotic.


"We have a new pair of Manta Rays joining the Aquarium if you'd be interested in meeting them" offered Charlotte. She smiled as she noticed Zoe turning to face her. While she still eyed Charlotte suspiciously, Charlotte noticed how her composure changed as Chloe began to approach.


"And...that's my way in" thought Charlotte, realising what she needed to do.


"Of course, we'd be interested in seeing them, wouldn't we Zoe?" said Chloe with unwavering enthusiasm. Zoe seemed uneasy, her suspicions conflicted with her desire to protect her friend.


Her unease was not lost on the pair. As Zoe noticed the pair staring at her, she began to feel awkward. Memories of her past flashed before her eyes, causing her to feel breathless.


"Zoe?" asked Chloe, her tone concerned. Zoe noticed this, focusing on it as she felt herself returning to reality. Even Charlotte appeared somewhat concerned as Zoe remembered where she was. She noticed Chloe staring at her, concerned as she tried to think of a way to change the subject.


"Let's...let's go," said Zoe, her tone still uneasy.


Something that Charlotte was all too eager to take advantage of.


"I thought that might be the case, follow me," said Charlotte. She began to walk away, motioning for the pair to follow. They hesitated for a moment, Chloe glancing over Zoe for a moment before they followed.


Within moments, Charlotte had led the pair to a back room which Zoe and Chloe quickly concluded was a changing room of sorts.


"I'll be bringing them to the pool on the other side," said Charlotte as she walked away, only turning back to say "Remember to put on one of the swimming costumes provided" as she left the pair to their own devices.


The pair took a short glance, noticing individual changing rooms. They nodded as they separated into individual changing rooms and proceeded to get changed, each picking out one of the swimming costumes provided.


Chloe removed her jacket and placed it on one of the clothes hooks. She took one look over herself before proceeding to strip. Once she was fully nude, she admired herself in the mirror.


"I wonder if Zoe would love me like this?" thought Chloe, recalling that she had done this several times in front of her bedroom mirror. However, before she could get distracted, Chloe quickly regained focus, putting on the white swimming costume she had picked before exiting the changing room.


To her surprise, Zoe was nowhere to be seen.


"Zoe, you ok?" asked Chloe, concerned following her friend's earlier episode. Zoe usually seemed so confident so to see the exact opposite...was concerning.


In the other changing room, Zoe had already removed her clothing. Her tattoos were on full display as she looked closer at them. She sighed slightly as she noticed the fading but still visible scars from her childhood. The tattoos had done wonders to make her feel comfortable in her own skin but she would always remember what they did to her.


"Suppose I can't keep her waiting," thought Zoe, smirking slightly as she put on the black swimming costume she had picked out. She admired herself momentarily in the mirror which was present before walking out.


"Ah....there you are," said Chloe as she looked at Zoe. The pair continued to stare, admiring how attracted they were to each other. However, Zoe turned away sooner, trying to hide her blush which Chloe conveniently didn't bring up.


"We should get going," stated Chloe, placing her hand on Zoe's shoulder. Zoe nodded as the pair headed to the other side, noticing the nearby pool.


The setup was oddly quaint with the pool within the centre of the room. The pool looked very clean, appearing very calm and still. It was also very deep, the pair unable to see the complete bottom of the pool.


Chloe decided to get inside the pool, reasoning that the Manta Rays would arrive regardless of whether they got in first as she entered the pool. Zoe quickly followed suit, sliding into the pool to join her best friend.


The pair admired each other once more. It truly seemed like a moment from a movie as the pair looked into each other's eyes, admiring each other's depths. They moved closer to each other as if intent on confessing right there and then.


Chloe was about to say something before she felt an odd sensation, she felt the hairs on the back of her head stand on edge as the sensation intensified.


"Chloe...what's..." started Zoe, quickly becoming overcome by a strange sensation.


Chloe felt her legs begin to warp as they proceeded to shrink into her. She looked down in shock as she quickly reached out to Zoe who, despite her discomfort grabbed Chloe with her arms, keeping her above the water.


Zoe looked down toward where Chloe's legs had been and noticed a small tail forming behind her. Zoe had a confused look on her face as she felt her skin texture change. It was becoming stickier, making it more difficult to hold Chloe as Zoe stayed determined, wanting to keep her friend above the surface.


Unknown to Zoe, her skin was now becoming covered in mucus which would be helpful to protect her from infection once she had finished changing. For the moment, however, Zoe kept a tight grip, determined to keep hold as she looked down at her friend, an uncharacteristic level of concern all over her face.


"Chloe? Chloe... speak to me!" demanded Zoe, worry evident in her voice as Chloe looked up to her.


"Zoe, I think I know what's happening....we're joining the Zoo...as animals. You should....run, you might be able to escape" said Chloe, her voice uncharacteristically small, she was scared for her future, but most importantly she was scared for Zoe...her love.


Zoe stared at her friend. She began to feel overwhelmed as she considered her options. She hadn't felt this powerless since her childhood. She momentarily reflected, her memories playing in her head once more. It took only moments to commit to a decision.


"No, I'm not leaving you, Chloe," said Zoe, firmly, looking Chloe straight in the eye. Chloe looked up, noticing Zoe's look of determination as she was at a loss for words.


"Why?" replied Chloe, unable to say anything but.


"Ok...it's now or never," thought Zoe, looking at Chloe who had a seemingly knowing look on her face.


As if she knew what was coming.


"I love you, Chloe, I can't imagine life without you and any life without you is not one worth living," said Zoe enthusiastically. She hugged Chloe, bringing their faces closer together.


"I've waited a long time to hear you say those words" replied Chloe as Zoe stared oddly at her. "Everyone in our class could see it, Chloe, I just wanted you to admit it. I know how difficult it must have been for you, given your childhood."


"You....listened?" said Zoe surprisingly, staring directly into Chloe's eyes.


"Of course, we're best friends after all. Now come here...." said Chloe, her enthusiasm returning. She moved forward, kissing Zoe directly on the lips. Zoe recovered quickly as she returned the kiss, the pair finally confessing their love for each other.


Unknown to the pair, they were being watched by a green and magenta glow. The green one flashed enthusiastically, a small formation of green energy beginning to seep into it.


"It's working!" thought the Spirit enthusiastically, feeling its strength returning. However, it appeared as if Calamity wasn't sharing the Spirit's enthusiasm.


This was because Calamity could sense her plan falling apart...and there was nothing she could do about it.


"You disgust me" replied Calamity simply, fading away before the Spirit could respond.


The green glow simply flashed, as if shrugging its shoulders before returning its attention to the changing girls.


"Now I suppose we finish up" stated Chloe as she looked at Zoe, the pair moving faces away from each other.


"I suppose so," said Zoe. "Whatever we do, we do together," finished Zoe, a surprising amount of optimism in her tone.


Chloe could only nod at Zoe as she felt the changes begin to pick up speed. She felt slits forming on her neck as she struggled to breathe. Chloe felt a burning sensation near her new gills as she struggled against Zoe's hold. Zoe quickly concluded that Chloe had gills and placed her gently into the water. As her gills touched the water, the relief was immediate as Chloe calmed.


Zoe felt an unusual sensation in her arms as she felt them force themselves out. She stuck her arms out to her left and right as she felt a patch of skin stretch across them. She saw her lower arms sag down, thinning out as the lower skin began to connect to her lower body. It forcefully tore her swimming costume as the skin joined around her stomach. She looked to her other arm to see the same process occurring as her new pectoral fins were forming. They took on a triangular shape as the swimming costume was torn at both sides before snapping entirely, the material sinking to the bottom of the pool.


Chloe noticed her friend's new appendages as she cranked her neck up. She was very uncomfortable in this position but she managed to make herself float on the surface of the water. She could feel something else growing near her rear as a short dorsal fin emerged, pushing against the swimming costume and causing it to tear slightly. Chloe felt her skin texture changing, mucus was forming all over her body as she felt a form of discomfort.


Zoe tried to head over to comfort Chloe but immediately fell forward. She attempted to get back up but found herself unable to. She was struggling to breathe before her new gills emerged but she couldn't focus on that as her head changed shape. It broadened out as she could feel something pushing out of both sides of her face. Her new cephalic fins formed as they took on a horn shape as her eyes began to tingle. She was momentarily blinded as her eyes moved to the side of her head behind her cephalic fins. She looked to Chloe who had been watching with intrigue.


Chloe watched as Zoe began to get bigger, her pectoral fins expanded like sails as they flapped against the water. Chloe could feel another change come over her as her skin began to change colour. Dorsally, her skin changed into a shade of black while ventrally, her skin changed to white.


Zoe watched Chloe's skin change as she felt the same happen to her. Her skin changed dorsally to form a dark colour although she could feel pale markings form on her skin. Ventrally, her skin was also pale with distinctive dark markings. She looked distinctively different to Chloe as she considered her markings.


"Must be from my tattoos....or my scars" thought Zoe as she felt her rear change, pushing out a dorsal fin as her legs shrunk into her. Eventually, like Chloe earlier, a tail pushed out. Zoe's changes had finished as she quickly swam up to support Chloe.


Chloe reached out to Zoe, hugging her as she felt the changes continue. Her face quickly broadened, as her cephalic fins formed on the sides of her mouth. She felt as her eyes changed and moved to the sides of her head. However, the most unusual change began, forcing Zoe to move back momentarily.


She felt her arms stretch out, forcing themselves into position as they began the transition into pectoral fins. She felt new skin begin to form, connecting to her waist as the swimming costume began to tear. She felt the skin connect all the way up as she felt new membranes forming, preparing her for her new life ahead. She felt the same thing occurring in her other arm as they finished changing into pectoral fins. They expanded as Chloe increased in size, becoming suitable for her new species.


Chloe's transformation had completed as Zoe immediately swam up to her, embracing the best she could.


"Chloe....Chloe, can you hear me?" said Zoe, awaiting Chloe's response.


"Loud and clear Zoe" replied Chloe. She swam up to Zoe, enjoying each other's company.


Nearby, the Spirit still eyed the pair, satisfied as it fed on the energy of their transformation. It felt...sweet, their love complementing its meal extravagantly.


"That was a good meal," said the Spirit inwardly. It then looked around, recalling Calamity's disappearing act. It felt suspicious as it vanished out of sight, intent on solving this mystery.


Even if it meant destroying the evidence.


As it vanished, Charlotte approached the newfound Manta Rays.


"Greetings, guess it's time to move the pair of you into your new home when you're ready," said Charlotte uncharacteristically jovially, remembering why she enjoyed this job.


The newfound Manta Rays began to swim around the pool, Charlotte admiring them as they did so. She got out her checklist, ticking off Manta Rays. Her mind began to wander back to her recent bouts of memory loss as she felt concerned once more.


"Perhaps...I should see a doctor" thought Charlotte, deciding that one of the other managers would need to take over for a while.


Nevertheless, Charlotte took solace in the now as she felt elated at the Zoo's newest addition.


The Showdown:


The Spirit hovered around the Main Hallway, sensing traces of Calamity as it did so. It raised its hand, knowingly disabling the cameras before its little 'dispute'.


"Calamity...show yourself" warned the Spirit firmly. The traces of red on the edge of its turquoise form gave away its rage despite the tone of its voice.


A sudden sensation came over the Spirit as a magenta beam shot towards it. The Spirit dodged the assault effortlessly as it raised its hand.


Before she could react, Calamity felt herself being pulled from her hiding spot as the Spirit slammed her against the floor.


"Found you" stated the Spirit bluntly. It appeared fed up, eyeing Calamity with scorn. Calamity looked up, unable to help but admire the Spirit.


The Spirit was taken off guard as Calamity chuckled.


"Must've been nice," mumbled Calamity, her expression unchanging.


"What?" responded the Spirit.


"To feel like the puppet master and not the puppet for once" mused Calamity.


At that, a thought crossed the Spirit's mind but that was impossible...was it?


"Puppet?" said the Spirit, its tone becoming unhinged as the memories from the Loch came back to the forefront. Its hand began to glow green, charging up its own beam which it aimed at Calamity.


"Oops...perhaps I've said too much," said Calamity calmly...as if she had accepted her fate.


It took less than a second for the beam to connect, illuminating the Main Hallway in a shade of green. The Spirit didn't spare any expense as it blasted Calamity to kingdom come.


As the glow died down, only the Spirit remained. There was no evidence that Calamity had survived and, as the Spirit closed its eyes, it couldn't sense any indication of her ever being there.


But...what exactly was Calamity? And why did the Spirit feel so spooked?


Those would be questions for another time as the Spirit remembered its mission.


To get justice for Elizabeth.
Epilogue:


"Wha...what?" mumbled Rebecca, awakening from her slumber. She had taken a quick nap which had been disturbed as she sensed something...off at the New Zoo.


"Wait...could it be?" wondered Rebecca, shaking her head in denial. That couldn't be right...it was impossible. Rebecca felt fearful as she felt as if she was being backed into a corner.


Despite her current predicament, she knew that she had no other choice.


"I...I can't stay away anymore" concluded Rebecca, realising she needed to return despite her unease. There was no way the others were equipped to deal with this. Although, on the bright side, it would allow Rebecca to catch up with Caitlyn again. Not to mention, her poster had been finished and would be heading to the local printing company shortly.


Rebecca's thoughts were interrupted when she heard her mobile ring, she looked at it confused.


"Who would be ringing me?" thought Rebecca as she checked the caller ID which returned as 'Unknown'. Hesitatingly, she pressed the answer button.


"Hello?" asked Rebecca, uncertainty present in her voice.


"I know what you're doing," said the voice on the other line.


"What're you talking about?" asked Rebecca, her voice getting increasingly frustrated.


"I know how you've been adding to your Zoo, transforming people into animals. I will not stand for it anymore!" exclaimed the voice.


"Ok......you're crazy, I'm going to hang up now," said Rebecca with a minor smirk.


"I have evidence. I have the 'Diana' Tape. Yes I'm the one responsible for stealing it and if you want it back peacefully, you need to be ready to give up your Zoo and change the animals you've obtained back to normal" said the voice bluntly.


The caller heard a click at the other side, indicating that Rebecca had hung up.


Elsewhere, Rebecca stood up from her chair. Her blood ran cold at this newfound revelation. After all, she already had this magical surge to investigate. And now, she was facing the risk of a nutcase messing around with everything she had achieved. She looked outside, noticing the dark clouds approaching, indicating that it would probably rain soon.


Elsewhere, the figure threw away the disposable phone she had spoken to Rebecca on. She didn't want to be risked getting tracked as she opted to walk down the street before heading into the nearest bar. She needed a drink and she desired to be out of the incoming rain.


"I'll save you, my friends. The time is near...I can feel it" thought Amanda as she headed inside, away from the developing downpour plaguing the city. Hope filled her chest, feeling that a better future was just over the horizon.


Soon, she'd have the justice she craved.


Soon, the New Zoo would pay for its crimes!