New Zoo (Original Series by Wallace111)

New-Zoo-Origins

(On today's special episode, we get to see where the cheetah, Diana, came from! YAY!!!! Oh, and also, this story is very lo-)

It was an increasingly dark night as the rain was beginning to fall from the sky with growing intensity. The raindrop struck the rooftop of a relatively mundane establishment as two figures looked overhead, noticing the flickering neon sign dictating that the name of the establishment was 'The Immortal' although the 't' was flickering in and out every few moments.


"Certainly living up to its name," thought one of the figures as they quickly followed their companion through the doors into the establishment, wishing to escape from the ever-increasing rain.


Smoke permeated the air, people sat at the tables sipping drinks as the lively atmosphere of the place did little to raise the spirits of the newcomers. Sights of gambling were easily present throughout, clearly due to the weekly poker night which was held as a way to make some money on the side. Patrons were smoking to their heart's content, clearly having little to care and worry about in direct contrast to the newcomers. They walked up to a member of staff, a female as they desired some quiet away from the noise.


"Can we have a booth in the back please?" said the other, taller figure as the staff member took one glance before nodding, guiding the pair through the main area towards the private area. Eventually, they arrived as the staff member indicated their booth before walking off, leaving the pair to their privacy.


Now free of any unwanted company, the pair let down their hoods, content in the knowledge that they would be undisturbed. The pair took a moment to look at each other.


"Look familiar?" asked Rebecca, a small smile on her face as she looked at her companion.


"Very funny Rebecca" deadpanned Elizabeth, secretly happy that Rebecca seemed to have perked up following everything that happened. "This is where we met, where you gave us your offer" continued Elizabeth as she fully removed her yellow jacket, placing it to one side to give it a chance to dry off.


"Indeed," said Rebecca, taking a moment to remove her dark green robe, placing it to one side of the booth, clearly thinking the same idea as Elizabeth. "Times were simpler" mused Rebecca as she thought back to her Zoo for a brief moment before returning her attention to Elizabeth. There would be a time to grieve properly later.


"Ok, fess up, why'd you bring me out here?" asked Elizabeth as she gave a sceptical look to Rebecca who only smiled in response before crossing her arms.


"All will be revealed...soon" responded Rebecca, motioning with her hand as a nearby staff member came towards the pair. "But first...I feel like a drink" said Rebecca as the staff member got out a small pad, clearly intending to write their order.


" I'll have a white wine" stated Rebecca, content as the staff made a note before turning to Elizabeth.


"Coke," said Elizabeth simply, crossing her arms as she barely resisted a pout. The exchange seemed rather amusing as indicated by the smirk on the staff member before they departed, intent on getting the pair their order.


"Coke?" questioned Rebecca, looking at Elizabeth for an explanation.


"I get annoyed of always being asked for ID due to my height" explained Elizabeth, noticing Rebecca nod slightly as she added, "I just decided to forgo the stuff, was never a fan anyway."


The pair sat in silence once more, the soft flames flickering in the nearby fireplace being the only audible sound.


"Ok, seriously, why did you bring us here?. I doubt it was just because of sentimentality or nostalgia" asked Elizabeth.


"What makes you think I have a deeper reason for bringing you here?" said Rebecca, her tone curious as she awaited a response from her companion.


"Because I know you, Rebecca, I've lived with you, worked with you, even been abused by you" replied Elizabeth, motioning to the scar on her face briefly.


There was a small tension in the air upon Elizabeth's statement. Even as the pair's drinks were served, the staff member quickly left as Elizabeth took a sip of her coke.


"Ok...might as well say it," thought Rebecca as she sat back. "I know you've been hiding something from me" stated Rebecca, crossing her arms but not before taking a sip of her wine, trying to calm herself.


Elizabeth sighed, rubbing the back of her neck awkwardly before asking sheepishly "how obvious was it?."


"I knew something was going on," explained Rebecca. "I couldn't tell whether it was you or Charlotte but after what happened with Caitlyn's and Travis's families, it was rather obvious you were hiding something."


Elizabeth took a breath, wondering how best to explain the situation to Rebecca.


"Ok, I want you to keep calm but...the thing I was hiding was that I befriended some kind of magical spirit and it...desired revenge against you and Charlotte for what you did to me" explained Elizabeth, once again motioning to her scar to emphasise her point.


Rebecca was at a loss for words as she tried to comprehend the information she had been told. She leaned back in the booth once more, trying to think up what to say.


Eventually, her mind started working again as she began "Ok, I want you to start from the top, leave nothing out" said Rebecca firmly, emphasising the 'nothing' as Elizabeth felt slightly intimidated.


Elizabeth took a moment to calm herself before beginning. "Ok, I don't definitively know how the Spirit awoke but...somehow our actions in the Zoo awoke it from its slumber. It claimed to cause your...peahen predicament as well as what happened to Charlotte" explained Elizabeth as Rebecca was mildly surprised, given she had never told Elizabeth regarding her issues with Chris.


As Rebecca thought further on the matter, she began to chuckle. Unable to hold it in, it began to increase until it became full-blown laughter. Elizabeth felt concerned for Rebecca who noticed her companion's discomfort and forced herself to calm down.


"It's so obvious in hindsight, weird but obvious," said Rebecca as she looked at Elizabeth who was staring at her in confusion. "I'm ok, just thinking," said Rebecca as she thought for a moment. "I'm just thinking, if only we trusted each other, maybe we wouldn't be in this mess" stated Rebecca as Elizabeth could only stare for a moment, considering Rebecca's words.


"Well...we might as well start now," said Elizabeth, leaning back in the booth as she took another sip of her coke. "That's my big secret, what's yours?" asked Elizabeth curiously, eying Rebecca as Rebecca couldn't help but chuckle at the look Elizabeth was giving her.


Rebecca sat back, chuckling slightly once more as she considered what to confess. She took a small glance over to the robe she had worn on the way here as she nodded, turning back to Elizabeth.


"Ok, my secret is that my robe you see there was a gift from my former master," said Rebecca, noticing the confusion on Elizabeth's face for a moment before saying "I didn't just know magic from day one, I had to learn it from somewhere." Elizabeth nodded in understanding as Rebecca continued "This robe was a gift from him, I like to think I was his best pupil." Rebecca said the last part with uncertainty in her tone of voice as Elizabeth noticed Rebecca's change in demeanour.


"I'm sure he would be proud of you" reassured Elizabeth but noticing the minimal effect this had on raising Rebecca's spirits caused her to decide to change the subject.


"Still...I wonder where you got your taste in exotic pets from?" wondered Elizabeth as she looked at Rebecca. "I mean, your interest in Chris did seem to predate your predicament," said Elizabeth as she waited for Rebecca.


Rebecca couldn't help but chuckle as she thought about Chris. "You don't know the half of it, I was actually considering taking him out for a date rather than add him to the Zoo," said Rebecca, noticing Elizabeth giggling.


The pair enjoyed the moment as they couldn't help but find amusement in the absurdity that had become their life, if only for a brief moment. As Elizabeth took another sip of her coke, she couldn't help but remember the cheetah that Rebecca had owned. It kept in her mind as she decided to approach the subject.


"Regarding your taste in exotic pets...where did the cheetah come from?" asked Elizabeth curiously. As she noticed Rebecca's expression change she added "I know it was someone transformed but you've never been specific on the details. In this new world of us trusting each other, it'd be nice to know."


Rebecca stared at Elizabeth for a moment, considering her question as she took another sip of her wine. "Oh, what the hell, might as well tell it," thought Rebecca, her mind feeling slightly blurred from the alcohol intake. It was at this time Rebecca recalled that she was a lightweight and by the end of the glass, would most likely be suffering the full effects in the morning.


Rebecca leaned onto the table, looking Elizabeth directly in the eyes as she prepared to tell the story. Elizabeth listened with intrigue, looking forward to hearing the answers to one of the biggest mysteries of the Zoo.


Elsewhere:


The rain was still falling as a figure was taking great effort to hide between the bushes. Mud was getting stuck to the figure's form as they got out their phone. They noticed a red dot coming from the screen as they took another look at their destination.


The compound was gargantuan, looking more like a prison than a place intended to store animals. It was surrounded by a wall, several feet high and several inches thick as large searchlights did regular patrols across the surrounding area. Vans were entering the compound several at a time, appearing to drop off supplies before leaving with new cargo. The compound was heavily secured with large lookout towers armed with men patrolling the area. The final layer of security was the keycard mechanism and entrance checks. It was apparent that one would be unable to walk through the front door without a valid keycard.


"Ok..." said Amanda uneasily, turning back to her phone as she saw a trace coming from it. She tried to distract herself from her fear, each passing moment making her feel more and more out of her depths.


She returned to her phone, looking through her contact history as she found John's name within.


"Should I?, Can I admit I was wrong?" thought Amanda, seriously considering aborting this mission and regrouping. She gave the idea serious consideration before shaking her head and looking back at the compound, wondering how she was going to get in.


"Marlene is already inside the compound, hopefully with the others" mumbled Amanda as she noticed a nearby sewer grate. She considered whether she would be able to access the compound via it as she shook her head.


"Probably my best chance," thought Amanda as she quietly snuck from her position, taking great care not to attract attention to herself. Before she reached the grate, she noticed something in the corner of her eye as she quickly hid. She noticed a small appearance of purple as a woman in a suit was making her way to the entrance of the compound.


"Halt," said the guard, blocking the way for a brief moment as the woman showed her identification. "Oh, apologies Victoria, please come on through," said the guard, allowing Victoria passage into the compound.


"How can the Managers afford all this?" thought Amanda, unease gripping her as she began to feel that John was right.


This was clearly bigger than one single Zoo!.


Nevertheless, Amanda felt determination returning to her. She snuck to the grate, slowly opening it as she went down, closing the grate behind her as she did so. She landed in the sewers, taking a moment to get used to the smell.


"Guess I should see where this leads?" thought Amanda as she got out her flashlight, turning it on as the beam of light acted as her sole guide through the labyrinth she feared she would have to endure.


"Anything for my friends," said Amanda as she moved onward to her destination, feeling uncertain but hoping for the best.


At the New Zoo:

Above the loch within the Outside Section of the Zoo rested the final remnants of the Spirit. It had returned to the malnourished state it had been in earlier that day as it tried to feed on the last remaining energy that the new penguins and serval could offer it.


"So this is how I finish?, with no one at the end?" thought the Spirit, feeling memories flowing through it. It thought back to all the people it transformed, all the fear they had felt. The fear began to manifest itself in the Spirit as it felt fear begin to come over it.


"I don't want to hibernate again" whined the Spirit as the moment began to draw nearer and nearer. It was feeling increasingly tired by the second. It could feel a strange signature, it almost felt like magic. It could even be energy to keep it rejuvenated. However, in its current state, fear clouded its judgment, preventing it from considering this as an option.


It looked down to the loch, noticing its reflection as its regular self. The majestic green woman soon dissolved into the turquoise child that it had begun to associate itself with. The Spirit admired the form, having grown quite accustomed to it as it afforded a rare smile during this difficult moment.


"It just won't be the same," said the Spirit. "Even if I do awaken again, I'll never be the same as this" finished the Spirit as it thought of Elizabeth once more. The thought made her smile as it considered contacting her. However, via their decreasing bond, it could tell that Elizabeth was clearly paying attention to something else.


"I just wish I could apologise to Charlotte," said the Spirit, wishing that it could hibernate with no regrets.


"Wait...I have a small link with Charlotte" thought the Spirit, recalling how it had possessed the girl, tormented her. The memory made it cringe slightly before becoming determined to finish just one last job.


The Spirit gathered up all the energy it could, beginning to struggle as it felt itself become weightless. It transcended across the sky, the tones dissolving into an array of multiple colours and strangeness.


"I should be prepared for anything, I doubt I'll be welcome," thought the Spirit as its surroundings began to focus, resembling what appeared to be filing cabinets everywhere. Bookshelves of information were present around every corner as the Spirit looked on in amazement.


"Amazing" wondered the Spirit, feeling its energy fading as it realised it didn't have the power to leave. Still, it continued to look around in amazement at Charlotte's mindscape. Clearly, someone had been practising since the Spirit was in here last.


"Hello? Charlotte?" called the Spirit uneasily as it walked around the mindscape, trying to find the resident it belonged to. As it did, it noticed that the filing cabinets seemed to be growing taller, forming a labyrinth as the Spirit found itself forced to a single path.


Cabinets rose and fell to create the pathway the Spirit followed. It knew this had to be a trap of some kind but was powerless to do anything about it.


"What?" said the Spirit as the cabinets suddenly turned, rotating as they eventually revealed a straight pathway. At the end of this pathway was a comfy red chair. It turned around, revealing Charlotte sitting as the lighting made her appear imposing.


The Spirit felt intimidated as it watched Charlotte raising a hand. Before it could react, files from the surrounding cabinets came flying out. They wrapped tightly around the Spirit, trapping it as they squeezed, causing it discomfort as the Spirit was powerless to move.


"Welcome to my mind, suppose you didn't recognise it?" said Charlotte, the volume of her voice being enhanced as the Spirit's eyes widened as fear gripped it once more. The comfy red chair began to scroll forward. It was as if it was on a conveyor belt as Charlotte inched closer and closer to the Spirit, her glare threatening to destroy the Spirit there and then.


"Why are you here? What do you want?" demanded Charlotte, her glare remaining as strong as it was as it awaited a response from the Spirit.


"I'm...I'm lonely" reasoned the Spirit. "I just...just don't to die alone" managed the Spirit through the tightness of the files wrapped around its being.


Charlotte noticed the look in the Spirit's eyes, taking a moment. The Spirit was well aware that Charlotte was reading its mind. However, it was powerless to stop her as Charlotte continued to look through as if she was determined to find something.


To the Spirit's surprise, it could feel its restraints loosening as Charlotte raised her hand, freeing the Spirit as it fell to the floor. The Spirit was barely conscious as it felt a small surge growing within it.


"Wait...is this energy?" wondered the Spirit, as its form began to return. Its voluminous turquoise hair puffed out once more as its light blue t-shirt with a picture of the Zoo's entrance gained a unique sparkle to it. Its turquoise jacket shone brighter as its green shorts did the same.


The Spirit's eyes glowed for a moment as if occupied with additional energy as they seemed more lively. Its sandals remained the same, a nice shade of brown. Soon, the Spirit felt normal again as it looked at Charlotte in surprise.


"Why?" was all the Spirit could say as it awaited an explanation from Charlotte.


"Despite what you did to me, you have proven to be rather beneficial" explained Charlotte, noticing the Spirit's confusion as she groaned slightly.


The mindscape soon warped once more as a comfy green chair sat opposite Charlotte's red chair. The Spirit soon sat within it as it looked at Charlotte.


"You helped Elizabeth, my best friend. I do regret what Rebecca did to her. You've also shifted the balance of power. Honestly, I feared Rebecca was becoming too dominant in our little trio so undermining her, even making her slightly unstable, fearful is a welcome change of pace" started Charlotte, taking a moment to let the Spirit take on what she was telling it.


Secondly, we've all made mistakes which contributed to our predicament and, in my opinion, you're not the main reason." explained Charlotte as the Spirit couldn't help but nod, trying to keep up.


"Finally, you indirectly benefited me despite your attempt at revenge. I haven't felt this confident since I and Elizabeth used to travel. In addition, the additions you made greatly expanded the Petting Zoo which was something I've been trying to do for quite some time" continued Charlotte as she suddenly and firmly turned to face the Spirit.


"Now...tell me everything you know about Amanda," said Charlotte firmly.


"How did you..." started the Spirit.


"I read your mind, remember?" reminded Charlotte as the Spirit nodded, using its magic to present an image to Charlotte, intent on not giving Charlotte a reason to be angry with her.


Charlotte looked for a moment, her mouth opening as if to ask a question but ultimately deciding to drop the matter.


Charlotte watched intently, trying to make sense of what she was being seen. She soon recognised something in the picture as she laughed slightly.


"What's so funny?" asked the Spirit curiously.


"Is this her current position?" asked Charlotte.


"Yes, it is," answered the Spirit, still unsure as to what this meant.


"I recognise this place, it's the maintenance tunnel. It's near the storage compound where the animals are being kept" explained Charlotte.


"How do you know this?" asked the Spirit, clearly confused and still a little frightened by Charlotte.


"Victoria showed me the compound, she appreciates my logical reasoning and analytical background. Sometimes anyway," said Charlotte pridefully as her grin began to widen. She quickly stood up, running to a nearby bookshelf as she began to throw various books and notes onto a table that had just formed between the two chairs.


Before the Spirit could respond, Charlotte had returned to her chair as she looked through the texts. She appeared to be reading them at lightspeed as the Spirit could only look confused.


"Amazing at how quick she mastered the power of the mindscape," thought the Spirit, continuing to eye Charlotte as she finished reading the books she had thrown. "I underestimated her" finished the Spirit as Charlotte looked back at the Spirit.


"Yes, you did" answered Charlotte, having read the Spirit's mind. "Anyway, I have a plan, it's very delicate but it just might work," said Charlotte as she stared at the Spirit. "We need to act fast but we just might save the Zoo" finished Charlotte.


The Spirit felt enthusiasm returning to it as it said "Good, how can I help Charlotte?."


"Right now, don't do anything" replied Charlotte firmly, emphasizing the 'anything' in her sentence as the Spirit looked almost hurt. "You'll have your part to play but for now...I need you to trust me. The slightest error could make this all go wrong" explained Charlotte as she offered her hand out to the Spirit.


The Spirit looked at the hand for a moment. It shook Charlotte's hand as it looked her directly in the eyes.


"Ok Charlotte, I trust you," said the Spirit as Charlotte smiled back, nodding.


The mindscape began to shift around once more, the Spirit feeling pushed out as it realised Charlotte was forcing it out.


"Don't worry about hibernating, the energy I gave you should keep you going. Consider it a gift" called out Charlotte as the Spirit was forcefully evicted.


The Spirit opened its eyes, finding itself back at the Zoo as it looked around. Noticing the loch that it had awoken from seemed largely empty at this point, it decided to go and check up on the new penguins.


"I guess I can only trust Charlotte at this point," thought the Spirit as it flew across to the Penguin enclosure, intent on spending some time there until it received further instruction.


A Few Drinks Later:


Elizabeth had shifted slightly within the booth, getting herself comfortable as Rebecca watched.


"Ok, it all started several years ago..." began Rebecca as Elizabeth was captivated, her curiosity had peaked as she eagerly listened in.


Several Years Ago:


It started as a remarkably quiet evening as the private estate of one particular mansion was becoming particularly packed with noise, threatening the tranquillity as more and more people began to exit their limos and private vehicles. The patrons were obviously wealthy as they walked through the large doors, being greeted by others of similar status.


Within the main hallway of the mansion, tables were set, cutlery scattering each seat as a long meal was clearly planned. The floor in the centre had been immaculately swept, leaving not a single trace of dust for the intended dancing which would surely be commencing later in the evening.


However, the central attraction was the large flight of stairs towards the back end of the room. Large banners overlooked the stairs, showing the image of a man who was familiar to the guests as they prepared to take their seats, each guest wearing a mask, each one resembling an animal of some kind.


The event was ready to begin as the group of nobles, the Society eagerly awaited the guests of honour.


No sooner than everyone had taken their seats, they heard the clinking of a glass, bringing them to attention.


"Welcome esteemed colleagues" announced The Butler, his voice booming across the hall. His name was Renfield and he had been in the family for several generations, continuing to serve them, catering to their every whim. Like the other members of the Society, he was also wearing a mask, resembling a clouded leopard. It was rather fitting, given Renfield's tendency to leave his past service a mystery to anyone who would ask.


"May you all give a warm welcome to noblewoman Diana, her prestigious parents...and Natasha," said Renfield, clearly saying the last name with visible disdain which was mirrored by quite a few in the crowd.


No sooner than Renfield had finished his announcement, the Society looked up, applauding as they watched Diana coming down the stairs, her blond hair tied back in a braid as she wore a stunning white ball gown which flowed behind her majestically. Despite the cheetah mask she was wearing, it was obvious that the crowd knew exactly who she was. She gave a small bow to the crowd who applauded her as she prepared to take her seat.


She was soon followed by her parents, her mother's white hair flowing back as she was wearing a larger size of the gown her daughter was wearing, taking small steps as if to soak in the attention. She wore the mask of the Jaguar, which was rather fighting amongst her close circle who were fully aware of the wrath she would invoke if one was to threaten her daughters...well Diana anyway. She moved to one side, preparing to take her seat alongside her daughter.


Her mother stood alongside her father who was wearing a freshly pressed charcoal suit, yellow tie shining in the well-lit room. His shoes were freshly polished, his blond hair neatly combed back as his gold-coloured eyes looked over the Society, some appearing captivated by his very presence. Like his wife, he was also wearing the mask of the Jaguar, taking particular notice of one member within the room. The mask of the hare made him stand out as he sighed, hoping that tonight they wouldn't cause him disturbance.


Finally, they were followed by Natasha. Her short black dress appeared to be a direct clash against what her family was wearing in addition to her short white hair as she gave off a smug smile, clearly aware of her reputation of being the least favourite in the room. She continued to smile as she could tell the rest of the people in the room couldn't even stand her, their dead silence giving her all the indication she needed. A white mask adorned her face, shaped like an ordinary white house cat. The colour clashed with the rest of Natasha's black wardrobe but she ultimately didn't care.


"I know I'm the black sheep," thought Natasha, taking her position alongside her mother, sister and Renfield. "Might as well embrace it" finished Natasha, smiling as she stared at Renfield who only gave her a look of disdain in response. Their father walked up to the nearby podium, tapping the small microphone a few times as he prepared to speak.


"Welcome tonight my colleagues" announced Diana's father, smiling slightly as the audience eyed him with interest. "I would personally like to thank our leaders for trusting me with this opportunity. The Condor, The Shark and my close friend, the Lion" said Diana's father as he coughed, preparing to continue.


"We understand why we are here tonight. If we intend to take control of this city, we must remove the Governor from his position. He is proving to be quite the nuisance and it's about time we removed him from the equation. Soon, we will exterminate the little mouse as his squeaks are no longer amusing" finished Diana's father as he awaited the applause from the Society which began softly but soon became thunderous, the sound of clapping being the only thing that could be heard throughout the room.


As the applause continued, another woman observed the group. Zoom enhanced on her camera, the accuracy lens almost looking like a target reticle as the woman chuckled in soft amusement. She took a few photos, glancing at her camera as she smiled, satisfied at the quality of the output.


"Perfect," said Rebecca, noticing her hidden camcorder was still in position, recording the entire affair as she smiled, knowing that her contractor would be greatly interested in the intel she was gathering.


Back at the Immortal:


"Wait..so you were there?" asked Elizabeth, doubt present on her face as she said "How could you be at a party like that?" questioned Elizabeth.


"I was the event photographer. I was hired by the Society to take photos for their political campaign" explained Rebecca, noticing Elizabeth's expression of confusion.


"That doesn't answer my question entirely," said Elizabeth, her expression indicating she knew Rebecca was hiding something.


"I was also hired by the Governor, under the table, of course, to find something, anything to remove them from the equation. To summarise, they were just two overgrown children playing politics" said Rebecca, noticing Elizabeth's expression of understanding


"Should I continue?" asked Rebecca, noticing Elizabeth nodding as she prepared herself once more.


At the Dinner Party:


Following the grandiose speech that her father had given, Diana had migrated to her family's table from the seat she had previously been sitting at. She eyed her sister, shaking her head as she noticed someone beginning to approach her table.


She had long black hair and was wearing a similar long black dress to Diana's own as she took a seat at the table. She was wearing a peahen mask, the shades of grey and brown contrasted with the expected vibrant colours of the peacock. It honestly seemed quite dull.


"Ah, good to see you, Rebecca," said her father, offering his hand for a shake which she took, smiling softly as she placed her camera down on the table. "Did you get some good photos?" asked her father.


"Of course, they'll go perfectly with your campaign" replied Rebecca, noticing Diana seemed rather curious in her. She was distracted for a brief moment before Diana's father noticed where she was looking.


"Ah, I see you eyeing my daughter. She looks pretty nice tonight does she not?" said her father, causing the pair to blush awkwardly as they noticed his double meaning.


"Diana's not into women dad" stated Natasha, crossing her arms as she was obviously bored by what was going on. Before her dad could reprimand her for talking out of line, she stood up, planning to look around the other guests.


"Maybe there are some valuables they won't miss" thought Natasha as she quickly faded into the developing crowd, some beginning to converse amongst themselves as some even moved to the centre of the room, preparing to dance.


As much as Diana wanted to thank Natasha for standing up to her, she kept her mouth shut, returning her attention to Rebecca as Rebecca did the same.


"You're the event photographer, I presume?" began Diana, her mother always telling her to lead the conversation as she waited for a response.


"Yes, I'm here to take photos of your father for his campaign. I must say your house is immaculate, never seen anything like it" replied Rebecca.


"Really?" wondered Diana, her expression curious as she genuinely smiled, feeling the facade her parents expected her to put on begin to crumble. "What's your background then? what was it like for you growing up?" asked Diana curiously.


Rebecca gave the question some thought, placing her finger to her temple. Her expression changed as she began "I was raised by both my fathers" said Rebecca, motioning to her camera. "One of my fathers taught me photography, guess that's why I'm so passionate about it."


"And your mother?" inquired Diana, not realising the insensitivity of her statement until she saw Rebecca's expression change.


"I never knew my mother, not even a memory" replied Rebecca.


"Oh...I'm sorry. I didn't realise" said Diana, feeling rather nervous.


"It's ok, you couldn't have known," said Rebecca as she looked at Diana. "How about your background? surely you got the best of everything given your parents?" said Rebecca, awaiting Diana's response.


Diana, calming after changing the uncomfortable subject, thought for a moment as she sighed. "Look...I love my parents but sometimes...I just wish they would let me do things. Just have some freedom you know" said Diana, looking at Rebecca who appeared to be listening intently.


"I understand," said Rebecca simply. Unknown to Diana, Rebecca had conversed with her parents when they organized her as the event photographer. They couldn't stop talking about their daughter, her father clearly admiring the woman she was becoming.


"Didn't even realise they had a second daughter" mused Rebecca internally, remembering Natasha for a moment before returning her attention to Diana, a thought entering her mind as she began to come up with a plan.


"I just wish my parents would tone down their god complex. It's like everything below perfection is beneath them. Like my sister, a few incidents of petty theft and vandalism and they've already written her out of the will" continued Diana, Rebecca nodding as she gave the impression of understanding.


Diana looked away, noticing her parents were motioning for her to leave the table and join them within the centre of the room. She shook her head, turning to Rebecca as she prepared to get up.


"Duty calls, I guess," said Diana as she began to leave, surprised when she noticed Rebecca doing the same.


"Then let me escort you, my lady," said Rebecca, her tone largely exaggerated as Diana found the sight rather amusing. The pair walked together, arms crossed between themselves.


"It was nice to speak to you Rebecca," said Diana as Rebecca nodded in agreement. Soon the pair arrived at the centre of the room as a song began to play.


As if on instinct, Rebecca took Diana's hands in her own as the pair danced together. The centre of the room cleared as the Society looked on with intrigue as Diana felt awkward for a brief moment before settling into it. The pair danced like naturals as the surrounding people could only watch with continued interest, each one intrigued by how in sync they were.


Rebecca held Diana close as the pair stared at each other. They held the position as the song came to a close, the sudden applause interrupting the moment as they looked around, noticing they had been watched.


Rebecca blushed awkwardly as she looked at Diana before vacating from the floor, Diana tried to pursue her but Rebecca was too quick, becoming easily lost in the swarm of people.


Natasha was off to one side, having witnessed the pair from further back. She eyed Rebecca as she began to walk out of the hallway.


"I don't trust her," said Natasha quietly to herself as she began to quietly vacate the hallway, intent on investigating and failing that, returning to her chambers.


By now, Diana had left the centre floor as she continued to look around. She sighed, not being able to see Rebecca anywhere. Fortunately, she noticed her best friend approaching her. Wearing a dress with various shades of pink and purple, her brunette hair was hung down, weeping down her back as an orca mask adorned her face.


"You ok?, I saw what happened," asked Nadia, a concerned tone in her voice as she held onto her best friend for support.


"I'm ok...I think" replied Diana, looking at her friend who still appeared concerned. Nevertheless, after a few moments, Nadia seemed to calm as she pulled her best friend to one side, feeling she needed a bit of space from the events going on around her.


Unknown to the pair, Rebecca was still eying the pair via the overhead balcony as she had her camera out once more. Fortunately, she had grabbed it during her escape attempt as she began to take some more photos of the surrounding event, trying to take her mind off what had just transpired.


"Was there something?" wondered Rebecca, noticing Diana as she took a photo of her face, zooming in as she couldn't help but take one photo after another.


"What the hell are you doing?" asked a voice as Rebecca snapped out of her trance, turning to notice the newcomer who was glaring at her.


"Natasha, correct?" enquired Rebecca, noticing Natasha nod as she didn't take her eyes off of Rebecca.


"Stay away from my sister" warned Natasha, her glare intensifying as Rebecca felt a small sense of dread which was promptly squashed as she eyed the girl further.


"I think your sister is perfectly capable of looking after herself" replied Rebecca as she turned away, continuing to take pictures of the event.


Natasha stood there fuming for a moment. She seriously considered shoving Rebecca off the balcony and onto the below floor. She barely cared about the scene she would make in the process.


"Oh fuck it," thought Natasha, deciding not to bother. Her tiredness began to overwhelm her as she departed from the balcony, intent on returning to her chambers to rest.


Later that Evening:


The night was drawing to a close as Diana departed from the hallway, feeling a sense of tiredness and fatigue coming over her as she yawned. She began to walk up the stairs to her chambers, noticing Rebecca seemingly packing up as the pair crossed paths once more.


"Rebecca, I enjoyed seeing you tonight. Maybe we should try and meet up again?" asked Diana curiously as Rebecca looked up to face Diana, a small look of nervousness on her face for a brief moment before realising who she was talking to.


"I would like that...very much" replied Rebecca, her demeanour defrosting as she rifled around her bag for a moment before pulling out a business card. She gave it to Diana who eyed the card for a moment before returning her gaze to Rebecca.


"Just come to that address and we can have a private photoshoot together," said Rebecca, winking as Diana couldn't help but be rather amused.


"I'll be there, will next Tuesday work?" asked Diana.


"I wouldn't miss it for the world" replied Rebecca as she felt a special connection forming internally. From the look on Diana's face, she was obviously feeling the same.


Diana let out another yawn, interrupting the moment as Rebecca nodded. "Now it's time you went to bed, you could use some shuteye after everything that's happened tonight," said Rebecca as Diana could only nod, beginning to depart as she stumbled slightly.


Rebecca moved to her side, helping Diana stay upright as the pair walked slowly to Diana's chambers.


"Thank you" mumbled Diana, barely resisting the urge to fall asleep as they arrived at the door to her chambers. Rebecca opened the door, helping Diana inside.


"I'll see you Tuesday," said Rebecca as Diana crashed onto the bed, completely shattered as snores could be heard from the girl as Rebecca smiled, quietly closing the door behind her.


Rebecca passed through the mansion without further incident, leaving through the main door as she smiled.


Upon getting a sufficient distance away from the mansion, she got out her phone. She needed to contact the Governor, inform him of her success and arrange to deliver her camcorder in person.


"Well I've set the trap," thought Rebecca, preparing the call. "Just need her to take the bait" finished Rebecca as she heard a response on the other line.


Distracting herself from her current thoughts, she prepared herself for the discussion she was about to have.


Within the Immortal:


"So that was your old job, event photography?" stated Elizabeth. "It sounded like you were good at it, so why the change?" asked Elizabeth, curiosity on her face as she waited for a response.


"While photography interests me as a hobby, it didn't feel very fulfilling as a job" replied Rebecca. "I wished to do something with my magic so I made a deal with the Governor" explained Rebecca.


"I guess the deal resulted in the Zoo then?" asked Elizabeth.


"Yes, but I needed to prove the concept would work before he agreed to approve the planning. The Zoo was built from scratch after all" replied Rebecca.


"So I'm guessing Diana was the test?" said Elizabeth.


"Yes, now allow me to continue telling the story" finished Rebecca, her stare silencing Elizabeth as she proceeded to continue with the story.


Meanwhile:


Amanda had continued walking, her feet aching as she eventually arrived at what appeared to be a dead end. She looked around, noticing a ladder to the side of the wall.


"Guess I'm going up there," thought Amanda, taking a moment to rest her aching feet before heading up to the ladder. She felt her nerves increase once more as she fought them back.


"After all, I'm already this far, the rest should be easy...right?" thought Amanda, unsure of herself as she began to climb, each ascension feeling harder than the last as it felt like she had weights tied to her heels.


She eventually reached the top, pushing against the lid which surprisingly moved as she took a quick peek, noticing no security were around as she quickly climbed through, quietly closing the lid as she darted to a small dark space.


She looked, noticing a sign pointing towards 'Storage.'


"I guess that's where they're being kept," thought Amanda as she felt concerned.


"I've gone all in, it's too late to turn back now...even if I wanted to" reasoned Amanda as she suppressed her concern, pressing on as she followed the sign, taking care to stay out of sight until she noticed an overhead sign labelled 'Storage.'


"I guess I'm at the right place," thought Amanda as she snuck through the door, closing it quietly as she looked around.


"Ok, I'm looking for a Polar bear, Kangaroo and a Leopard, '' mumbled Amanda as she continued to look around the containers. The Managers had greatly expanded their variety of animals since she had last been there.


Amanda took a small glance, noticing a group of Snow Leopards within one of the containers. She noticed the adult leopards alongside a cub who appeared to be trying to bury itself into its mother.


"How...why?" questioned Amanda, finding herself at a loss for how the Managers could have done something like this. To small children no less!.


"I feel like I should save them," thought Amanda, doubt clouding her mind as she shook her head. "No, I need to save my friends first, then we can save them together" finished Amanda. A sudden growl coming from the snow leopard cub returned her attention to where she was as she moved away, intently trying to find what she had come for.


"She's leaving," said Adrian, disappointed as he turned back to his wife and child.


"Who is that girl anyway?" wondered Katrina as she continued to comfort Alex who was still trying to bury himself into her.


Adrian took a look at his son for a moment, feeling anger as he looked to the opposite container, eying the pair of tigers within, one of which was his daughter Caitlyn.


"Did you know about this?" asked Adrian, his tone accusatory as it took a moment for Caitlyn to realise he was talking to her.


"Dad, I..I" began Caitlyn.


"Answer the question!" interrupted Adrian, growling as Katrina took notice.


"Adrian, calm down, you're scaring her," said Katrina, Adrian calming a little before turning away from his daughter. He was obviously not warming up to this as Travis had predicted previously.


"Daughter, sweetie, were you aware that this could be a risk when we were transformed?" asked Katrina, her tone soft to try and ease her daughter. She knew that scaring Caitlyn was unlikely to accomplish anything.


"Mother" started Caitlyn, staring into her mother's eyes. "I didn't, I didn't know about this at all" finished Caitlyn as Katrina nodded.


"How could you not?" asked Adrian, feeling calmer than he had only moments ago. "Rebecca seemed to be close to you" finished Adrian.


"Closeness means nothing when Rebecca is concerned," said a voice as the group turned to face the origin. Noticing a nearby cheetah had sat up, they gave her their utmost attention.


"Hello, my name's Diana to the newcomers. Anyway, I've been here longer than all of you and even I didn't know about this place" said Diana.


"How would you know about Rebecca?" enquired Katrina. "We saw you at the Zoo when we came. Alex was interested in you." Katrina took a moment to think before she asked her next question.


Before she could, she was interrupted by her daughter.


"I never thought to ask Diana but how long have you been here?" asked Caitlyn.


Diana seemed to stop for a moment as if considering her answer as the group awaited her response.


"Years," Diana said simply. The group was too dumbfounded in shock to reply.


"Do you want to talk about it?" offered Katrina, breaking the silence as it appeared as if Diana was seriously considering the suggestion.


"Sorry but not now," said Diana, lying down as a nearby guard approached the group, they figured he must have heard Adrian's roar from earlier.


"Ok animals, quieten down, lights out will be in 30 minutes when lockdown will take effect," said Igor as he looked around for a moment before walking towards the exit, clearly intent on taking his coffee break alongside his comrades.


Amanda had heard Igor's announcement as she thought "I need to hurry up." She moved further into Storage, focused on her mission to save her friends.


Around the Compound:


Charlotte arrived frantically at the compound. She took a moment to catch her breath due to having to run here due to the others currently possessing the 'car.' She reached into her pocket, pulling out her ID card as she walked up to the nearby guard.


Fortunately, the guard took one glance at her ID and let her in without question. She began to pick up the pace once more, eventually breaking into a full sprint.


"I hope I'm not too late," thought Charlotte, not paying attention to where she was going as she felt a sudden bump as she fell backwards. She clutched her head for a moment, looking up to see what she had collided with.


It was none other than Victoria, who didn't seem happy to see Charlotte.


"I feel god is laughing at us today," thought Charlotte as she prepared herself for what she expected to be a verbal onslaught.


"Charlotte, what are you doing here?" asked Victoria, her tone sounding rather confused and defeated as Charlotte was taken by surprise.


"You have an intruder, someone is trying to set the animals free" explained Charlotte, giving Victoria a moment to take it in. "We need to commence lockdown early," said Charlotte firmly, Victoria appearing off guard by her tone.


"Charlotte, no one is here. Ivan's men have swept the perimeter several times tonight" said Victoria who was clearly very tired. After what she had discovered the day before regarding her daughter, one could hardly blame her.


"Ivan's men have been on break for the last 45 minutes, someone has snuck in since then" reasoned Charlotte, surprising Victoria who had not expected Charlotte to have memorized their schedules.


"Please, you need to trust me and call lockdown early," said Charlotte, almost begging as Victoria stared at her once more.


"She seems to be telling the truth. It couldn't hurt to call it early. Charlee needs to stay safe" thought Victoria, having made her mind up as she got out her PDA.


"Ivan? I need you to commence lockdown early. I have a suspicion that we have an intruder. I need your men at the ready to sweep the perimeter" said Victoria.


"Ok" replied Ivan, knowing Victoria had had a few difficult days and elected not to argue. He could still recall her sobbing as he comforted her the night before.


He pressed a button on the console in front of him as he looked through the various monitors. While he had not seen anything, he trusted Victoria not to commence these things without reasonable suspicion.


"LOCKDOWN COMMENCING!" sounded nearby sirens as exit doors began to seal, the lights dimmed other than emergency lighting which flashed red on the ceiling.


"Ok, men, time to do some pest control," said Ivan, calling his men as he prepared to take arms alongside them.


As the Compound came under lockdown, Charlotte got out a torch and turned it on.


"Charlotte, what are you doing?" asked Victoria.


"I wish to have a direct look, try to snuff out our little rat" explained Charlotte as Victoria nodded.


"She's clearly changed" thought Victoria, rifling through her pocket.


"In that case, I think you'll be needing this to contact Ivan if you find them," said Victoria, giving Charlotte her PDA.


"I'll bring it back to you in one piece, I promise," said Charlotte as she pocketed the device, leaving to assist in hunting the intruder.


"Almost makes me want to give them a second chance," thought Victoria as she began to move towards the monitors, knowing Ivan would be leading the charge in finding the intruder.


Within Storage:


"LOCKDOWN COMMENCING!"


"Wait, what?" panicked Amanda as she noticed the lights dimming. "Lockdown wasn't supposed to happen for another 30 minutes," thought Amanda as she began to panic.


"Does this mean they know I'm here?" thought Amanda, realisation coming over her as she felt fearful as she quickly moved to a spot. She tried to hide as she could hear people moving around the compound.


She heard the door open as she saw a light moving back and forth. It originated from a torch as she saw someone walking in. The figure seemed short, red hair being noticeable alongside wide glasses as Amanda moved quietly around, trying to stay out of sight.


Amanda looked around, noticing she was still near animal storage containers. She noticed the one directly opposite her, its resident staring directly at her as it flashed a wide grin.


"Wait a moment, is that?" wondered Amanda, eying the crocodile as she began to remember. She knew this animal, remembered her name, remembered how she had abandoned her.


"Anastasia" mumbled Amanda as she was suddenly snapped out of her thoughts as the crocodile let out a low growl at her.


"Wait...calm down" muttered Amanda, feeling her panic growing as she noticed the beam of light coming closer to her position. The crocodile seemed to be staring hatefully at her as if it wanted to harm her.


It began to thump against its container, trying to break free, trying to attack Amanda. Even as an alarm blared from the container as it lightened up like a Christmas tree, the crocodile formerly known as Anastasia continued to thump, even to the point of self-harm.


Amanda tried to rush, realising her position was compromised as she saw the beam of light fall on her.


"Stay right where you are" warned Charlotte, getting out Victoria's PDA. "I've found the intruder Ivan, she's in stora..." started Charlotte, the air being taken out of her lungs as she felt something impact her.


She watched the intruder running for the door, intending to escape.


"Storage, she's leaving Storage!" shouted Charlotte into the PDA, recovering as she got up. She began to chase after the intruder, hoping Ivan wasn't far behind.


Amanda was running down the hallway, hoping she'd be able to escape how she came in. However, as she turned a corner, she found herself cornered by a set of guards.


The main one who stood out was in the centre. He was wearing a simple casual outfit consisting of a dark red top alongside black combat trousers. His large brown boots did little to muffle the noise of his steps as a large brown trench coat covered his body from his shoulders to his knees. A black ushanka atop his head as he looked at Amanda.


"Shoot her down, men!" ordered Ivan as the group prepared to fire. Amanda panicked and tried to run in the opposite direction. She heard the firing of guns as she screamed.


She opened her eyes, not realising she had closed them as she felt slight relief that she wasn't dead. However, this was short-lived as she realised that she had several tranquilisers in her back. She immediately began to feel drowsy as she tried to continue to run.


She found herself face to face with Charlotte who smacked her to the ground with one punch. She felt the strength leave her legs as she found herself unable to get up as she realised she had truly been captured.


The last thing Amanda could hear before fully passing out was that they had caught their 'little rat.'


Unknown to everyone, the rain which had been coming down with increasing ferocity was finally beginning to settle. It was as if the literal elements were turning in their favour as Amanda was carried to Interrogation.


Charlotte's smile grew wider as she felt her plan coming together beautifully. She walked along with Ivan and Victoria as she looked forward to the future, knowing it was going to be very bright indeed.


Back to the Past:


As the sun began to rise, Diana began to stir awake. It was as if the rays of the sun were invading her chambers, glowing warmly through the windows as she tried to keep them at bay.


"Might as well get up" groaned Diana, beginning to awaken, forcing herself out of bed as she took a glance at her calendar. Her eyes immediately widened as she got a glance at the date.


"It's Tuesday!" thought Diana enthusiastically, the thoughts of the party a few days prior still fresh in her mind as she recalled the new friend she had made.


She had been looking forward to this ever since, eagerly awaiting the chance to get to know Rebecca more. She took another look at her clock, smiling as she realised she had enough time for a quick bite to eat before she left.


"Although, I'm going to need to sneak out to avoid questions" mumbled Diana, groaning as she felt minor irritation at how protective her parents were of her.


"At least Natasha doesn't have to put up with this," said Diana, wondering why her parents didn't extend their protection to her. Did they really hate her that much?


Throwing those thoughts to the back of her mind, Diana quickly moved over to the wardrobe, placing her pyjamas in the nearby wastebasket for Renfield to collect when he did the laundry later on. She browsed her outfits, wondering what would be best to wear for the photography session which had been planned.


She eventually settled on a light yellow sundress as she slipped herself into it. She selected a pair of white socks as she pulled them up her feet. She couldn't help but blush as she hoped that Rebecca admired her choice of outfit.


She looked at her cheetah mask, wondering if she should take it with her.


"Why do they expect us to wear these masks anyway? Might as well be a large target" thought Diana. Despite her thoughts, she couldn't help but pick it up, placing it in a nearby backpack which she slung over her shoulder.


She took one last look in the nearby mirror, smiling as she looked at herself. She did truly look beautiful as she departed from the mirror, heading towards the door of her chambers.


She departed, walking down the hallway as she looked around. Fortunately, it appeared that her parents and Renfield were otherwise occupied. She could hear them talking from what had become known as the 'Strategy Room.'


"I don't know what they're doing there. Honestly don't care either" thought, Diana, as she headed down the majestic staircase, intending to get a quick snack from the private Dining room before departing.


To her surprise, when she entered the Dining Room, Natasha was inside. She appeared to be devouring a piece of tuna alongside several pieces of toast. Diana froze for a moment, reconsidering her mission to get something to eat before leaving.


"Good to see you finally up" snarked Natasha. Diana figured she might as well come and eat, knowing her cover was blown.


"Odd choice for breakfast," said Diana, eyeing Natasha's plate who only looked at her in confusion in response.


"Breakfast?" questioned Natasha, staring oddly at her sister. "It's nearly midday sister, it's almost lunchtime. Anyway, why do you care? I thought you couldn't stand me, wouldn't make you much different from our parents" said Natasha, her frustration slowly growing in her tone.


"I don't hate you sister," said Diana, sitting down next to Natasha, taking her hand in her sisters. "I do wonder why you act out sometimes but...you're still my sister. I couldn't hate you" added Diana.


Natasha was at a loss for words for a moment, a few tears coming to her eyes which she held back. "Thank...thank you for that" mumbled Natasha, turning away for a moment.


"Natasha, you ok?" asked Diana, her expression showing concern.


Natasha looked at her sister, her expression shifting between various emotions before nodding. "I'll be ok sister, I need to be. For my own sake" said Natasha as she finally took notice of Diana's wardrobe, deciding to change the uncomfortable subject.


"What's with the fancy getup? going somewhere" said Natasha, her expression becoming curious.


Diana glanced at her sister, giggling internally as she stared at her sister. Sometimes, her sister truly seemed like the housecat she had been assigned.


"Actually, yes. I've got a photo session with Rebecca today" said Diana, taking a moment before adding "Wanted to keep it hush-hush, didn't want an escort."


"Rebecca, was she that woman from the party?" asked Natasha.


"Yes, why do you ask?" said Diana.


Natasha took a moment as if to consider her words. "I just think there's something suspicious about her. I saw her taking photos after what happened on the dance floor"


"Well she is a photographer, what were you expecting?" snarked Diana, wondering what her sister was getting at.


"You misunderstand, she was taking pictures of you, ONLY you" responded Natasha, accentuating her words in an attempt to get the message forward.


"Oh, I see what you mean," said Diana, the air hung still as she ruminated on what her sister had said.


"I'm not saying you can't go, just be careful," said Natasha, concern etched on her face as she saw her sister perk up again.


"Ok, I'll be careful" promised Diana, her sister smiling at her as the pair sat down, Diana quickly getting some food in her before she planned to go.


Shortly After:


Diana stood at the front door, doing final checks in her bag as Natasha watched her.


"Ok, 'll be back later" assured Diana, noticing that Natasha appeared to be comforted by the assurance.


"I'll keep it a secret where you're going. I highly doubt they'd listen to me anyway" said Natasha as she watched her sister leave. She walked down the road, which was surrounded by extensively decorated gardens as she was soon out of sight.


"I hope she'll be fine," thought Natasha, barely resisting the urge to run after her sister. If she only knew what was to come, she'd have gone after her without a second thought.


At the Photo Studio:


Diana looked at the business card that Rebecca had given her at the party. She looked up to the overhead sign once more, feeling a little suspicious as the studio seemed increasingly sketchy.


"Should I go in?" wondered Diana internally, beginning to think that Natasha might have had a reason to be suspicious. She thought back to the evening with Rebecca, smiling slightly as she felt a spark of some kind.


"What am I thinking?" thought Diana, shaking her head of her suspicions as she committed to a decision. "I trust Rebecca, we're friends" continued Diana, her tone was still unsure, as if she was trying to convince herself.


Diana entered the studio, immediately looking around as she eyed the nearby stage. She saw the cameras which had been set up alongside the lights to help create the appropriate atmosphere. She felt her nerves ease as she continued to look around, the studio appearing less and less suspicious.


"Rebecca?" called out Diana, her call emanating across the wide room as she noticed a nearby door. Figuring it might have been Rebecca's office, she began to walk over to it.


"Welcome Diana," said Rebecca, waving down Diana to get her attention. "I'm so glad you could join me today." Rebecca smiled, easing Diana's nerves as they shook hands.


"So where should we begin?" asked Diana, her expression was curious as Rebecca pointed towards the stage.


"Up there, we'll start with the stage and see where we go from there" replied Rebecca suggestively, Diana feeling a small blush come to her cheeks before quickly ridding her mind of such thoughts.


"You can put your bag down over there," said Rebecca, pointing to a part of the floor as Diana nodded, returning her focus to the stage.


Diana walked towards the stage, noticing Rebecca heading over to her camera. She appeared to be making final preparations as Diana stood on the stage, the lights beaming down on her as she smiled.


"So...how should we start?" asked Diana, noticing Rebecca was still looking over her camera. "Should we build up to my good side or should we start there?" said Diana, noticing Rebecca turned up to look at her.


"Sounds good" started Rebecca, flashing her camera at Diana as she took a photograph. "However, you're going to need a wardrobe change first" stated Rebecca as Diana could only stare at her in confusion.


"What do you..." started Diana as she could feel a strange sensation coming over her. It was as if her limbs were falling asleep as she soon found herself unable to move. She looked out to Rebecca, noticing the bittersweet smile on her face.


"Why...why is she smiling?" thought Diana, a sense of panic coming over her as she realised Natasha might have been right.


Soon, Diana was completely paralysed as she could only stare out at Rebecca. Rebecca still had the same bittersweet smile on her face as she could only watch.


"I do like you Diana...I really do" began Rebecca, her hands beginning to glow as Diana was gripped by fear as she was powerless to do anything. "However, sometimes, we have to make sacrifices to achieve our dreams," said Rebecca, the aura exiting her hands as it seeped into Diana, preparing her for the metamorphosis she was about to undergo.


"What...what's going on?" thought Diana, feeling a cramping in her hand as she felt something pushing against her fingernails. The pressure became greater and greater as Diana felt her even unable to cry out in pain, the paralysis she was under was just too strong for her to overcome.


Fortunately, the pressure subsided as Diana felt something forming, twisting into a new form as it sharpened. She found her arm shifting as she was able to get a view of what was happening to her hand.


Her nails appeared sharp almost like claws as she felt a further sensation occurring in them. Her fingers began to cramp up, forcing themselves together as they began to compress. They became stumpy, losing their dexterity as she noticed her shifting claws appeared to be retracting in a little as she could only stare at the hand in amazement.


She felt an itch coming over her hand as it turned, giving Diana a front-row seat as she watched a thick pad forming on her palm. It appeared to be shifting slightly, forming grooves that would be particularly useful when her transformation was complete.


"I figured we'd begin with a fur coat before taking pictures," said Rebecca tauntingly, a smile on her face as Diana could only stare as she felt a prickling forming all over her body.


Diana soon began to feel incredibly warm, the lights shining on her doing no favours as something seemed to be pushing out of her skin. She found herself able to look down as she noticed white fur growing around her underbody, covering her crotch as it began to feel strange underneath her dress. Pale yellow fur was growing around her body, covering her back as it spread up to her neck. Black spots began to appear as if randomly, covering her new fur as Diana soon recognised the pelt of the animal she was now wearing.


"I figured it was appropriate after the party, given the mask you were wearing" explained Rebecca, noticing the look of betrayal in Diana's eyes. This actually gave her pause for a moment. Rebecca quickly suppressed her doubt.


"The show must go on," thought Rebecca as she returned her attention to Diana, focusing on the girl's rear.


Diana felt confused, still fearful at what was happening to her as she felt something growing from her rear. It seemed to be heavy as she found herself forced to look back, noticing a tail was now growing from her rear. It swished, longer and longer as Diana found it was becoming harder to keep her balance, her spine seemingly becoming more flexible.


Despite her newfound flexibility, she felt herself being forced to the ground as she smelt a faint burning. She soon recognised the source as she noticed her clothes were seemingly disintegrating from her body. Despite her fur preserving her modesty, she couldn't help but look at Rebecca awkwardly, the paralysis forcing her position to change as she found herself on hands and knees.


"You should have expected that since animals don't wear clothes" stated Rebecca simply as she soon focused on another area, intent on seeing this through.


Diane felt her legs begin to shift as they shortened, becoming more in line with her arms as she soon found herself standing comfortably on all fours. She felt a shifting in her still human hand as she looked at it. She could only stare as she watched it soon mirror her front paw.


As she was focused on her front paws, she felt a similar change undergoing in her feet. She felt them warp beyond recognition as her nails became claws, her toes clamming up, shortening as they forced themselves together. Pads forced their ways out of her feet, grooving to help with traction as she was feeling difficulty in breathing, one of the few things the paralysis had seemingly left unaffected.


"Time for a few internal adjustments," said Rebecca, focusing on Diana as she felt strange. It was as if her whole anatomy was changing against her will, shifting into something...inhuman.


It felt as if her bones were beginning to hollow out, becoming lighter as it seemed as if her changing frame was designed for speed which Diana knew it was. She took deep breaths as she felt her organs shifting and changing, becoming more appropriate for the animal she was becoming. She felt her heart and lungs expanding as she felt her capacity increase for both as breathing was quickly becoming easier.


"I can't believe this is happening, I'm becoming a cheetah," thought Diana, feeling the changes continue to invade her anatomy, forcefully changing it as her shoulder blades detached, her hip bone becoming more adept at pivoting as she looked out at Rebecca.


From the neck down, Diana knew her changes had completed. This was soon to be short-lived as Diana felt the sensations reach her face, intent on changing it to match the rest of her new form.


Diana felt something pushing through her jaw as she felt her teeth loosening within her mouth. Fortunately, she was able to spit them out as her new, sharpened teeth broke through her gums. It was rather uncomfortable for the girl as the teeth seemed too large to be stored in her mouth.


As if responding to her thoughts, Diana's mouth began to stretch out. It pushed out, further as it grew into a muzzle, allowing her new teeth to be stored comfortably in her mouth. She could feel her tongue changing, becoming feline as spines grew from it. This would prove to be useful for her new diet as she felt her blond hair begin to fall from her head.


Diana shook her head as if she had accepted what had happened to her as she felt the fur on her body spreading up, covering her face with pale yellow fur and spots. She could feel her ears shifting, forcing themselves to the side of her head as her hearing became more acute, more precise. They lopped over, becoming truly animal as her nose shifted, turning black as she could feel the sensations leaving her.


"At least I'm still me," thought Diana, bittersweet emotions clouded her mind as she looked at Rebecca, distraught that she could have done this to her and angry at herself for falling for what was now clearly a con.


Diana's physical form had been irrevocably altered as, despite her paralysis, she was able to look up to Rebecca, eying her from her new perspective.


Rebecca took a glance at Diana, smiling softly, her affection for the girl hadn't faded despite the transformation she had caused.


"Were you impressed?" asked Rebecca, calling out to the open air as Diana felt herself being forcefully turned toward the office door.


"Yes...I was" said a new voice as a new figure exited out of the door, a purple-haired woman beside him. Diana could only guess she was an assistant of some kind. Her attention was soon sidetracked as she recognised the man.


"Wait, that's the Governor!" panicked Diana as she was powerless to do anything as he walked around, examining her as if she was a piece of meat.


"Stunning, absolutely stunning," said the Governor as Rebecca's smile widened.


"Does this mean that you'll fund the project?, as we discussed?" asked Rebecca, her tone optimistic as the Governor stopped staring at Diana for a moment as he turned to face Rebecca.


"Yes, I approve of your project," said the Governor, taking a knife out as he turned to face Diana. "But first...I always wanted a stuffed cheetah for my hallway"


He was suddenly stopped by a small magical surge as he stepped back, his assistant doing the same as they turned back to face Rebecca, noticing the aura coming from her hands.


"Diana stays with me. You can look through her bag, find a way to resolve your tension with her father" said Rebecca firmly as the Governor nodded, directing his assistant to tend to the bag as he looked back at Rebecca.


"Nice to see you have some spine," said the Governor, curiosity in his voice as he saw his assistant hold up a cheetah mask. He nodded as she brought it to him.


"That'll do, I can't wait to add her family's masks to my collection," said the Governor.


Diana felt as if her world was crashing down around her. Not only had she endangered herself but she had placed all her family in grave danger.


"No...no...NO!" screamed Diana internally, trying to deny what was happening as she felt her neck beginning to warm up. She looked down, noticing a collar was now around her neck. It appeared quite exotic, a mixture of greens and pinks as she felt the paralysis begin to wear off.


"Diana, stay" commanded Rebecca. Diana felt compelled to obey her mistress as the pair looked to the Governor and his assistant.


"Well, I should get going. I've got a power base to consolidate and some people who need removing from the equation" said the Governor as he snapped his fingers, his assistant grabbing Diana's bag as the pair departed exiting the studio as the door audibly closed with a 'THUD.'


"Don't worry Diana" said Rebecca, bending down as she stroked Diana's head. "Soon, you'll have a much wider open space to explore, not to mention many more people to keep you company" continued Rebecca, her smile never leaving her face.


Diana could only feel intimidated as she eyed Rebecca's smile. What had filled her with joy only a few days before now terrified her as she became worrisome for her future...for her family's future.


Finally, Diana felt that whatever happened, she had no one to blame but herself.


Back to the Present:


"Wakey Wakey," said Charlotte, giving the unconscious Amanda a small slap on the cheek.


Fortunately, this appeared to have the intended effect as Amanda began to stir awake. Charlotte smiled as she leaned back on the chair she was sitting on as Amanda began to regain consciousness. She managed to get a small glimpse of her surroundings which were unfamiliar to her. The room around her seemed darkened, it felt cold within as the air was still.


"Wait, where am I?" thought Amanda as she tried to move, still in a state of unawareness. Her limited mobility caused her eyes to shoot awake as she recalled what had happened.


"Welcome to Interrogation," said Charlotte, looking at Amanda still in the process of becoming aware of where she was.


"Damn, I've got to get out of here!" panicked Amanda as she tried to get up once more, finding herself bound to the chair as she felt a small shock coarse through her being.


"Ow, that stings" thought Amanda as she felt her struggles cease for a brief moment before struggling once more. Charlotte watched the whole spectacle unfold, smiling widely in satisfaction.


"You really should stop" recommended Charlotte, Amanda giving her attention for the first time as she ceased her struggles. Amanda realised that any attempts to resist were futile as she glared at Charlotte. Charlotte was unaffected by it as she continued to smirk, clearly satisfied with how the situation had unfolded.


"Good to see you cooperate," said Charlotte, patting Amanda condescendingly on the head as she looked toward the control panel where Ivan was currently sitting. "I doubt Ivan wouldn't mind giving you another shock if you step out of line" continued Charlotte, her smile never wavering as Amanda was now becoming increasingly creeped out.


"Why are you doing this? what does transforming people into animals accomplish for you?" demanded Amanda. Charlotte took a small glance, noticing Ivan had his finger above the button to issue a controlled shock. Charlotte raised her hand, indicating Ivan to hold off for now.


"I don't think you're in a position to be giving demands anymore," said Charlotte, relishing the look on Amanda's face. "Unlike us but that'll be for later, won't it?" asked Charlotte, letting the question hang in the air before facing Amanda once more.


"I just wanted to save my friends," said Amanda, her tone small and shallow as Charlotte couldn't help but chuckle.


Amanda stared at Charlotte as she continued to chuckle, eventually devolving into laughter then guffaws as the girl was in utter hysterics as even Victoria and Ivan were staring at her in confusion.


"Sorry, sorry" mumbled Charlotte, wiping tears from her eyes. "The irony is just hilarious" explained Charlotte, earning the confusion of everyone in the room as they tried to work out what Charlotte was on about.


"I'm fully aware of your investigation with John. I'm also aware of your connection to him" said Charlotte as she noticed Amanda's eyes widening at the realisation.


"You appear to be catching on, the irony is that in trying to save your friends, you've now just doomed them" explained Charlotte. "Now onto tonight's programme, we are on a tight schedule after all."


"What do you mean?" asked Amanda, the pit in her stomach worsening as Charlotte moved closer to her.


"Don't play dumb, where's the tape?!" asked Charlotte, her voice demanding and strict as Amanda felt powerless.


"We don't have it,'' admitted Amanda, eyeing Charlotte with confusion as she raised her hand in response. She quickly realised what was going on as her nerves felt like they were on fire. She realised she was being shocked again as the pain began to intensify. Ivan had turned up the dial at Charlotte's request as the pain became unbearable. Unable to even speak, Amanda could only tolerate the shocks for so long as it suddenly stopped.


"OAH fuck, that hurt!" cried out Amanda as her head leant forward, smoke coming off her being as she could feel her skin was partly burnt.


"Now, where is the tape?!" asked Charlotte more firmly as she grabbed Amanda's chin, forcing her to stare directly at her.


"We...we don't have it," said Amanda once more, noticing Charlotte clearly didn't believe her. Charlotte raised her hand once more, signalling Ivan to issue another shock.


"WAIT!" shouted Amanda, giving the group pause as they looked at her.


"Ready to confess your sins?" mocked Charlotte, smiling maliciously as she stared at Amanda once more.


"John has it, John has the tape," said Amanda, feeling sick to her stomach at the weight of her betrayal.


"Thank you for admitting what I already knew," said Charlotte, her smile widening as she raised her hand once more. "However, this is for lying to me," said Charlotte maliciously as Ivan prepared another controlled shock.


"No, please no!" shouted Amanda, her mind in a state of panic as her nerves felt like they were on fire once more. Her entire body felt like it was burning as she screamed out in pain. Charlotte chuckled darkly as she watched Amanda in excruciating pain.


As the shock ceased, Amanda was on the brink of passing out. Her skin was smoking and her nerves were still burning. As she was about to slip back into unconsciousness, she felt something slap against her cheek.


"Sorry, can't have you sleeping before the final act" explained Charlotte, preparing a syringe as she injected it into Amanda's arm. "Don't worry, it's just adrenaline, it'll keep you awake...for now anyway" stated Charlotte as Amanda barely lifted her head enough to look at Charlotte.


"What...are you...going to...do?" said Amanda, her words slurred as she could still feel her nerves calming.


"I'm glad you asked," said Charlotte, looking Amanda directly in the eyes. "I plan to use you as bait to draw out John. I'll be able to reclaim the tape, deal with a pest and save the Zoo all in one stroke!" said Charlotte, her voice growing bigger and more confident as Amanda could only stare at her in horror.


To both of their surprise, the lights suddenly flashed back on. It took a moment for both of them to get used to the sudden light as a speaker suddenly whirred to life.


"Sorry, Charlotte but I must stop you there" announced Victoria as Charlotte took on a look of confusion. "While I'm thankful that you reported the intrusion, I still intend to call the police on Amanda here for breaking and entering" finished Victoria as Charlotte's expression dropped for a moment before perking up again.


"Can you just give me a chance?" asked Charlotte, trying to argue her case as Victoria looked at her with confusion.


"Why do you care so badly? according to your file, you didn't exactly sign up for this willingly" said Victoria, her tone full of confusion as she waited for a response.


"Ok, I admit it, as much as I and Elizabeth loved to travel and as much as events went against us and forced us here. I've grown to like the Zoo and I know Elizabeth has too. I just want a chance to be able to keep it. Just give me a few hours and if I fail, feel free to call the police" said Charlotte, her tone begging Victoria towards the end as she awaited a response from Victoria.


Victoria appeared to consider the offer for a moment. "Should I really do this?, to be fair she was right about Amanda but, after what she did to Charlee?, can I trust her?" thought Victoria, seemingly making her mind up as she turned back to Charlotte who still appeared to be pleading with her.


"Ok, Charlotte, you get tonight but this is your 'last' chance," said Victoria, wondering what she had just done. Despite her uncertainty with doing this, part of her was curious to see Charlotte's plan unfold.


"I guess there's no time to lose," said Charlotte as she pointed to Ivan. "Ivan, prepare a transport, I and my hostage here need to get to the Zoo and I want a small perimeter to keep watch while I initiate my plan" explained Charlotte as Ivan looked on confused, turning to Victoria as his expression indicated his confusion in whether he should listen to her.


"Do what she says Ivan" ordered Victoria as she got out her PDA which Charlotte had returned earlier. They had a long night ahead of them as, only known to Charlotte, the endgame was commencing.


Onward to the Future:


Within the Immortal, Elizabeth was sitting within the booth. She was drinking the last of her coke. She had lost count of how many she had had over the evening as she was deep in thought.


"So Diana was a member of some kind of secret society? and rich no less?. I never would have guessed that" thought Elizabeth as she faced Rebecca, feeling new respect for her after hearing what she had to do to ensure the Zoo could even get off the ground.


Rebecca looked at Elizabeth, the respect mutual as she looked at Elizabeth, once again noticing the scar on her face which she had placed after the school trip was tied up.


"Come here," said Rebecca, motioning Elizabeth to come forward. Elizabeth compiled, taking a small note to realise Rebecca was a bit tipsy after all the white wine.


A small aura came from Rebecca's hand as Elizabeth felt her face begin to clear up, the scar which had been part of her features for the last few months began to fade. Her face cleared up as it returned to its normal pristine state as Elizabeth smiled, truly thankful for Rebecca removing what was slowly making her feel insecure.


"So that's the story of the New Zoo" summarised Rebecca, her tone bittersweet which Elizabeth figured might have been genuine, a combination of the alcohol, or both. Rebecca finished her last glass of wine as she leant back in the booth, staring at Elizabeth as if she was expecting her to say something.


"Well, we're still young," said Elizabeth, trying to think positive. "We could always try something else." Before Rebecca had a chance to respond, Elizabeth felt her phone go off in her pocket. She took a quick glance as she noticed the caller id.


"Sorry Rebecca, we should take this" stated Elizabeth as she placed the phone on the table, enabled speaker mode as she answered.


"Charlotte, you ok?" asked Elizabeth, concern beginning to overwhelm her. "Where are you?, Have you gone home? I thought I'd..."


"Quiet!" shouted Charlotte down the line, silencing Elizabeth. "Sorry for snapping but we don't have much time" explained Charlotte as the pair looked at each other confused.


"Time, for what?" asked Elizabeth, Rebecca nodding in agreement with the question.


"We have one last chance to save the Zoo. I have a plan and I need you both at the Zoo as quickly as possible to make final arrangements" informed Charlotte. "So get yourselves over there immediately, I don't want you to miss this" finished Charlotte as she hung up, leaving the pair in suspense.


"Guess we should get going," said Rebecca, beginning to get up and fortunately, managing to keep her balance despite clearly being tipsy. She began to move as quickly as she could towards the back exit as Elizabeth quickly threw a pile of notes on the table, knowing it would more than clear their tab for the night.


"Fortunately, she gave me the keys," thought Elizabeth, feeling internal amusement as she knew that Charlotte already had this in the bag, she just wanted them to be there to witness it.


"She always had moments where she enjoyed theatrics" mumbled Elizabeth as she arrived at the 'car', noticing Rebecca trying to force the passenger door open.


"At least she has enough sense not to try and drive" mused Elizabeth as she unlocked the doors, allowing Rebecca to enter with all the grace of an elephant as Elizabeth entered the driver's side.


"Time to get the show on the road," said Elizabeth as Rebecca nodded, having fastened her seatbelt as Elizabeth turned the ignition.


The pair were soon speeding towards the Zoo, Rebecca being unable to hold in her excitement. Elizabeth was unable to tell how much was due to her excitement and how much was down to the wine. Nevertheless, Elizabeth couldn't help but smile, looking forward to being reunited with her best friend.


The final curtain was about to lower as the pair looked forward to the performance that was surely going to be one to remember.