New Zoo (Original Series by Wallace111)

New-Zoo-Pride Expansion

It was early in the morning at the New Zoo as the sun was beginning to rise.


Three days had passed since Orientation Day. The animals of the New Zoo were still in the process of acclimatising and becoming familiar with their enclosures once again. The new additions had certainly puzzled a few of them. However, after a few days, they had grown familiar with the changes and what they entailed.


Slowly but surely, things seemed to be returning to normal for the New Zoo and the animals.


However, there was one sharp contrast. The newcomers, particularly the offspring of the Big Cats, had been constantly curious about their new homes. Their excitement had definitely been known to the others, for better and for worse.


Currently, Kiara was beginning to stir. Her eyes opened as she looked around her new home, excitement filling her. However, she was mindful that her parents were still asleep and, not wishing to disturb them, quietly shifted onto all fours. She looked around, her eyes widening as she was still struggling to take it all in.


"This...this is home?" growled Kiara, smiling as she had been enjoying the vast wide space that she had to explore. She loved the savannah appearance, all the new colours and scents. It was vastly preferable to the sterility and dull shades of grey that she had been familiar with since she was born. The Tall trees had been particularly intriguing, their shade easily eclipsing her small form. The sand at her paws felt...comforting, the vegetation causing her intrigue as she had never seen such a thing.


Kiara looked around, noticing her father sleeping on one of the many rocks scattered around the enclosure. She smiled as she recalled lying on top of one of them with her father. It had certainly been comfortable, she could understand why he enjoyed it.


The memory caught Kiara's attention as she looked up. She eyed the strange light up above shining down on the enclosure through the glass ceiling. The light certainly intrigued the small cub, a new curiosity for her developing mind.


"That light is certainly...pleasant" thought Kiara. It was then she noticed the strange contraption that was within their enclosure. It looked like it could be entered and something about it...spooked Kiara.


"It...it seems scary" meowed Kiara, her tone sounding fearful. However, this was short-lived as she looked around, taking in the rest of her home. Her parents were still asleep without care as Kiara continued to take it all in. Soon enough, her fear was replaced with her excitement as she purred in approval at her...home.


"Yes, this...this is home" purred Kiara quietly. She continued to look around, the sound of the stream being picked up by her ears. The running water brought an insatiable thirst to her as she began to walk towards the stream. She couldn't help but bounce slightly, looking forward to seeing 'him' again.


She soon arrived at the stream, taking a look up at the glass ceiling once more as she noticed the current position of the strange light. Kiara couldn't help but feel even more excited as she knew what would happen when it got into position.


"I'll get to see Alex again," thought Kiara, bending her head down as she began to eagerly drink from the stream. The water felt invigorating, liberating as she swallowed the cold liquid. She purred once again in approval, waiting for the moment that she'd be able to see her best friend again.


Elsewhere, Sandra was beginning to awaken from her slumber. She stretched out, the lioness yawning as the traces of sleep were quickly fading. She realised she had slept on her side, her fur against the sand as she quickly rolled onto all fours. Her tail shifted slightly, getting into a comfortable position as Sandra looked around.


She had been quick to notice that Kiara wasn't with her.


"She must have woken up early...again," thought Sandra, shaking her head as she tried to erase any last traces of tiredness. She continued to look around for her cub, her ears listening out intently for any clues.


"Where...where could she have gotten off to?" wondered Sandra humorously. She 'chuckled', enjoying the opportunity to prowl. It helped satisfy her instinct to hunt, to keep her fulfilled. It was at that point that Sandra noticed the strange doohickey as she narrowed her eyes.


"Those other cats...they're invaders," thought Sandra, anger crossing her mind. She wasn't particularly fond of the other cats...particularly that she-panther. "How dare she try and get together with my mate!" thought Sandra, barely resisting the urge to roar. She shook her head, dismissing her thoughts for the time being.


"But first...I should find my cub" grunted Sandra. She walked on all fours, listening out for any trace of her daughter. Fortunately, this wasn't too difficult as Sandra soon found Kiara by the stream. Kiara was still drinking from the stream as Sandra eyed her cub curiously. A mischievous 'smile' came to Sandra's face as she thought of an idea.


Sandra, 'smiled' excitedly as she bent down. She quietly prowled forward, carefully sneaking up on her cub. Kiara, oblivious to her mother sneaking up on her, finished her drink at the stream as she looked around.


"I can't wait till the doohickey opens" purred Kiara, feeling it would be anytime now. However, before she could react she felt something quickly pulling her in. Kiara felt a sense of panic until she recognised the paws of her mother.


"No fair mother, I didn't know we were still playing" growled Kiara. She 'pouted' momentarily before breaking out into a smile. She felt incapable of disliking her mother as she was pulled in closer.


"I figured I'd surprise you" replied Sandra, 'chuckling' a little as Kiara couldn't help but join in. "You're thinking about him again? Alex?" asked Sandra, tilting her head inquisitively.


Kiara looked down momentarily. "Yes...I just...I like him mother...he's just so nice" replied Kiara, feeling a little uneasy as some of the other cubs, particularly Luna, crossed her mind. Sandra noticed the unease in her daughter. Therefore, she decided to drop the matter as she pulled Kiara in closer. She 'hugged' her cub tightly as Kiara realized what was about to happen.


"That's now? Do we have to?" growled Kiara, her displeasure obvious as her little tail waved around.


"You want to look nice for Alex right?" purred Sandra. She then used her long tongue, licking down Kiara's back as she prepared to clean her cub.


"Not like this" protested Kiara, trying to escape her mother's grip. However, Sandra kept her tightly snug within her grip. She continued her cleaning despite her daughter's protests. Soon, Kiara quietened down, resigning herself to the cleaning as she 'frowned.'


As Sandra continued to clean her cub, her mind began to wander. She thought back to her mate, still sleeping on his favourite rock. Between all the sudden changes, Sandra couldn't help but feel...insecure.


"I wish he'd do more than just sleep...perhaps show me some attention?" thought Sandra, continuing to mindlessly clean her daughter. "Even if he just reassured me that we're still committed to each other" continued Sandra, her thoughts drifting over to Jasmine, that annoying she-panther. "After everything we've been through together, I thought she'd know to leave my mate alone!" thought Sandra. Unknown to Sandra, her licks had become rougher as her anger grew.


"Mother...you're hurting me" moaned Kiara. This snapped Sandra out of her trance. She looked down at Kiara who was eyeing her mother. Her expression indicated concern for the lioness as Sandra quickly calmed herself.


"Sorry...Kiara" purred Sandra, slowing her licks as she felt satisfied with her daughter's cleanliness. She eyed her cub curiously as Kiara eyed back, her expression still concerned for her mother.


"Mother, are you alright?" meowed Kiara, tilting her head curiously. Sandra eyed her cub for a moment, considering whether to share her concerns.


Ultimately, she decided against this.


"Yes my cub, I'm ok" replied Sandra, 'smiling' as she tried to convince her daughter. Kiara took a moment, eyeing her mother curiously. This soon gave way to excitement as she couldn't help but bounce around with enthusiasm.


"That's great" purred Kiara, struggling to keep her voice low. "It'll be nice to see Alex again" continued Kiara, noticing the strange light was almost in position. She continued to bounce a little as Sandra 'chuckled'. She had also noticed the strange light getting into position and, despite her unease, put on a brave act for her daughter.


"It'll be time soon for the doohickey to open" purred Sandra, grabbing Kiara in her jaw. She gripped the nape of her cub's neck, walking with her through the enclosure.


Kiara was tempted to protest. However, she resigned herself to her situation. After all, it wouldn't be long now. Soon the doohickey would be open...


...and she'd get to see Alex again.


A Few Hours Later:


Carol looked upwards at the stone archways that formed the entrance to the New Zoo. She blew another bubble from her strawberry gum as she couldn't help but feel excited for the wonders that awaited her within.


Her first shift was just moments away...and she couldn't be happier.


"Today is the first day...of the rest of my life!" thought Carol excitedly. She had an eager smile on her face as anticipation built up within her. She couldn't wait to be able to transform someone, remove them of their undeserved humanity.


"Rebecca truly is a visionary," said Carol, walking under the stone archways. Her smile widened as she pranced, her excitement impossible to contain. She entered the Main Hallway, looking around as she noticed the markings on the floor.


"Now...where should I go?" wondered Carol, trying to think of where Rebecca would be. She then recalled Rebecca's preference for felines, particularly a tiger which she called Caitlyn. She smiled maliciously as she decided to head in the direction of the Feline Sanctuary. She noticed a nearby clock counting the seconds away as Carol decided to pick up the pace.


After all, her first shift would be starting soon. And Carol couldn't have been more excited to begin!


At the Feline Sanctuary:


Rebecca was looking into the Feline Sanctuary, glancing at the various Big Cats. She was smiling widely as they seemed so...pleasant together.


"Yes, this was definitely worth it," thought Rebecca, suppressing her insecurity. Whatever animal instinct had been bothering her regarding the old animal enclosures had diminished. At that point, Rebecca got out her camera. She zoomed in, focusing on a tiger within the enclosure.


"I just hope she thinks so too," said Rebecca, snapping a picture of the tiger she knew to be Caitlyn. Caitlyn's feelings and unease had been rather easy to work out. Rebecca figured it was just due to the fallout and that they would soon pass.


"Perhaps...I should go and see how she's doing?" thought Rebecca, a thought coming to her mind. Her hands began to glow, magic emanating from them as the idea was becoming increasingly tempting.


After all, she'd be able to come back out when she was done...right?


"Rebecca?" said Carol, snapping Rebecca out of her trance as she turned to face Carol.


"Oh...hello Carol" replied Rebeca, her composure uncertain for a brief moment. However, she quickly regained her composure as she offered her hand out for a handshake.


"It's great to see you," said Carol enthusiastically, gripping Rebecca's hand. She shook rather dramatically as Rebecca couldn't help but find Carol's enthusiasm contagious.


"It's good to see someone else as committed to this as we are," thought Rebecca, pushing her suspicious thoughts to the back of her mind. While something about Carol was off-putting, Rebecca was struggling to put her finger on it.


"What's the plan for today? Will we be adding to the Zoo?" asked Carol, her eyes wide with optimism and intrigue. It was as if the only thing that existed in her universe was Rebecca and the words she said.


"We'll be getting some new additions today" confirmed Rebecca, noticing Carol's excitement growing. "You can shadow me today to get an idea of how it's done...unless you feel confident enough to do it yourself," said Rebecca, standing curiously as she waited for a reply.


Carol thought for a moment as she held her hand to her chin. "Should I? It would give me a chance to prove myself...my commitment to her vision. Perhaps she might reward me?" thought Carol, her mind wandering as a formality.


For Carol, there was only ever going to be one answer.


"I would love to have a chance to do it myself...prove that I am committed to the work you do here," said Carol excitedly. Rebecca eyed her for a moment, wondering how to react. Still...Carol did seem excited to have a chance.


"Besides...I'll step in if it begins to go wrong" concluded Rebecca internally. She eyed Carol, noticing her excitement had been unwavering.


"Ok, I'll let you do it but...I'm going to watch over you from a distance" said Rebecca. She noticed Carol smiling as she smiled back, dismissing her suspicions for the time being.


"Ok, today we're going to have a new pair of volunteers" started Rebecca, noticing Carol concentrating intently. "They come from a group of juvenile delinquents which we now have access to thanks to our connections" continued Rebecca. "They'll be here under the guise of community service...which they'll serve as an animal of your choice" finished Rebecca.


Carol nodded in understanding, ideas already beginning to form in her head.


"Perfect choice for delinquents, they wouldn't amount to much anyway," thought Carol, feeling as if they were truly better off as animals. She grew a small wicked smile at this thought, eager to have her chance to prove herself.


Rebecca noticed this, feeling a little off. "Ok, Carol is really seeming 'off'" thought Rebecca, noting that she should discuss this with the Spirit at some point. After all, taking on staff posed a large risk to the New Zoo and after the last crisis...it would be best to stop the next one before it escalated.


"Anyway, what's your plan?" asked Rebecca. This seemed to cause Carol to freeze in her tracks. She seemed to be struggling for an answer as Rebecca chuckled. "It's ok, you don't need to give me an answer right now," said Rebecca. It was then she passed a profile, courtesy of Charlotte, in her hands to Carol. "That should have all the information you need" finished Rebecca as she began to walk away.


"Where are you going?" asked Carol.


"The Security Room...I need to review some footage" replied Rebecca, winking as she continued to leave.


Soon, Carol was left alone in the Main Hallway once more. She eyed the profile in her hands, deciding she should at least get an idea of what she was dealing with.


"Ok, soooo" started Carol, eyeing through the various paragraphs of information. She noticed the pair were named Nina and Coco as she continued to look deeper into the profiles. "How much information does one need?" wondered Carol, getting lost within the depth and breadth of the research that had been done on the pair.


However, her eyes stopped at one sentence. One that caused her to smile as a plan was coming to fruition. Within moments, Carol knew exactly what to ensure victory and...as she looked up to the Feline Sanctuary, noticing the sole lioness within, she decided on what she was going to add.


"That's perfect," thought Carol, her smile widening as she felt determination flow through her. She wouldn't let Rebecca down, she couldn't let her down.


After all, Carol didn't want to learn the price of failure.


Within the Security Room:


Rebecca watched Carol through the security cameras intently. She continued to feel a sense of unease about her. She almost seemed...too excited.


"Is this normal? She seems very different to how she was only last week" thought Rebecca, continuing to feel suspicious. Rebecca couldn't help it, after almost losing the Zoo, her dream, she couldn't afford to take chances anymore.


It was at that moment, a green glow emerged from the corner of the room. Rebecca noticed it, nodding as she was glad the Spirit had seemed to get her message. She watched as the glow became more intense, beginning to take the familiar shape of the Spirit.


The Spirit's voluminous turquoise hair puffed out, shining brightly alongside its body. It retained its now-familiar t-shirt displaying the New Zoo's stone archways. Its hood was up the turquoise jacket wrapped around the Spirit like a blanket. Its green shorts continued to shine as it wore a pair of sandals.


"Something's off with that woman," said the Spirit. It eyed Carol suspiciously, unsure of what sense to make of the situation. "Should I take action?" asked the Spirit, eying Rebecca as it awaited for her judgement.


Rebecca eyed Carol for a moment, unsure of how to deal with the situation. "Would this fix the potential problem...or make it worse?" thought Rebecca. "Carol does seem devoted but...is it sincere?" continued Rebecca. Eventually, she relented, forcing the thoughts out of her mind.


"Leave her be for now...but keep an eye on her," said Rebecca. The Spirit nodded in understanding as it faded away, ready to do as asked.


After all, it would soon have another meal to enjoy.


"For now...let's see how she does with her day job" finished Rebecca. She eyed the monitors, curious as she couldn't wait for the show to begin.


A show that was due to start very soon.


Early That Afternoon:


Nina and Coco walked forward, eyeing the stone archways of the New Zoo. Coco looked at the sign with childish curiosity whereas Nina appeared to be on the brink of groaning.


"Uh, why are we here again?" groaned Nina, her expression indicating she'd rather be anywhere else.


"Because we got caught for petty vandalism?" replied Coco bubbly, her tone full of confusion as she stared oddly at her friend.


Nina took a moment to comprehend what her friend had said. She resisted the urge to stare back. After all, Coco was rather slow on a few things.


"It was a rhetorical question," said Nina simply. She chuckled slightly as she noticed her friend blushing awkwardly.


"Oh...sorry, my bad" replied Coco, her blushing increasing.


As Nina watched her friend, her chuckles soon gave way to a smile. She truly adored her best friend and...despite her insecurities, wouldn't trade her for anything.


"After all, she's always been adorable" though Nina, her smile widening as she eyed her friend.


Coco had her long blond hair tied back into a ponytail. A butterfly flower clip adorned her hair, complementing it beautifully. She had come in blue overalls, a white shirt hiding underneath them. Her bright green eyes shone like emeralds, making her gaze look rather inquisitive for someone who was usually slow to the punchline. Finally, she was wearing a pink backpack over her back, containing her insulin to assist with her diabetes.


Nina, however, was wearing a much darker wardrobe. Her black polo shirt and skirt complemented her darker skin. Her black combat boots felt sturdy against the ground which allowed Nina to feel comfortable. Her black hair was held back by a few hair clips and her wrists were adorned by a pair of black bracelets.


"So...how do I look?" asked Coco, feeling a little awkward as Nina continued to stare at her.


Nina snapped out of her stare for a moment. "Great...you look great" stammered Nina, blushing slightly as Coco couldn't help but giggle.


"Now that you're done admiring me, why don't we go in?" said Coco.


"Good idea, might as well get our community service over with" replied Nina, nodding as the pair began to walk forward.


However, in the corner of her eye, Nina eyed Coco once more. She seemed to be stumbling, her expression uneasy. She seemed fatigued as she almost fell forward. Like lightning, Nina was by her side, holding her friend. She helped lower Coco to the ground as she stared into the eyes of her best friend.


"Time for another dose?" asked Nina, noticing Coco nodding weakly. Within moments, Nina had opened Coco's backpack. She found the needle within as she began to prepare, clearly used to doing this before as she attached the needle to Coco's insulin pen.


"Hang in there for me," said Nina, hearing Coco's whimpering as she continued preparing the needle. She double-checked the dosage, confident it was correct as she squirted a couple of units to ensure there were no air bubbles.


Nina lowered Coco's overalls slightly, opening her shirt a little. She noticed the mark on Coco's stomach, implying that her insulin was last injected there. She then pushed the needle into Coco's skin, pressing down as she began to count the seconds down.


"1.2.3...8,9,10" counted Nina. She eyed Coco who appeared to be coming around. She removed the needle, removing it from Coco's insulin pen before inserting it back into Coco's backpack.


"You ok?" asked Nina, staring concernedly at her friend.


"...yes..." stammered Coco, nodding weakly as her senses began to return to her. She staggered to her feet, Nina's concern beginning to be washed away.


After all, Coco was Nina's only friend and she didn't want to jeopardise it for any reason.


"I suppose we should go in...for real this time?" asked Coco humorously. Nina smiled despite her awkwardness, she could never understand how Coco could be so humorous about her medical condition.


"Yes, let's go...unless you feel like going back to Juvie?" replied Nina. She noticed Coco giggling at that notion as Nina felt reassured.


Hence, the pair walked into the New Zoo. They entered the Main Hallway as they began to look around, both curious about the animals they would be seeing...and likely working with.


Coco looked up, seeing a large sign overhead. Her eyes widened as she noticed it read 'Feline Sanctuary.'


"Nina, how about we go and look at the Big Cats before someone finds us?" said Coco excitingly, her eyes wide. Nina took a moment to think, finding the idea tempting as she was also a fan of Big Cats.


"I don't see why not...especially if this is going to be counted as time 'on the clock'" replied Nina. She walked alongside Coco, the pair both interested in seeing the Big Cats within the Feline Sanctuary.


Little did they know, they would soon be becoming permanent residents.


Within the Feline Sanctuary:


Currently, Sandra was lying down within the Feline Sanctuary. She looked around, noticing Kiara in the near distance. She shook her head, 'smiling' as she eyed her cub in the near distance. Kiara was currently playing around, bouncing with her other friends. She eyed the snow leopard cub she was next to, smiling all the while.


"Kiara's certainly taken a liking to Alex," thought Sandra. She noticed the female Snow Leopard not too far off, she seemed rather concerned, never taking her eyes off her cub. "She needs to calm down, she's been like this ever since we moved in" purred Sandra quietly.


However, before Sandra could ponder further, she noticed another one of the Big Cats approaching her. Sandra immediately recognised the approaching she-panther as she resisted the urge to growl.


"Is this spot taken?" mused Jasmine, her tone playful as she approached Sandra. She ignored the glare that Sandra was giving her as she laid down. She eyed Sandra playfully, fully aware that Sandra's annoyance was growing.


"You've got some nerve hitting on my mate" growled Sandra. She continued to glare at Jasmine who failed to take any notice of the lioness. Jasmine's tail continued to swish playfully, further annoying Sandra.


"Why would I be interested in Andrew? He's too lazy for my liking" replied Jasmine, her tone still indicating she wasn't taking Sandra's accusations seriously.


"He's not..." started Sandra defensively.


"Then where is he now?" interrupted Jasmine, her eye's playful as she knew Sandra was trapped.


After all, Jasmine already knew where Andrew was.


"Still...in the enclosure" grunted Sandra, hanging her head in defeat as Jasmine 'smirked.' "So where's Derek?" purred Sandra, quickly finding some resolve.


"Looking after the cubs...or getting a short break" replied Jasmine, 'smirking' as her mind briefly wandered. However, she shook her head. After all, there was plenty of time for mating later.


"Don't you think you should keep an eye on your cubs? You seem to disregard Derek more often than not nowadays" purred Sandra.


"Why? It's not like they can escape. Besides...I'm sure Alex finds his mother's interference suffocating" purred Jasmine.


"You really shouldn't burden all your cubs on Derek but...I can't help but see your point" replied Sandra, taking a moment to eye the female snow leopard once again. She shook her head, trying to wonder if she could be any worse at hiding. It seemed almost as bad as Haley trying to gather gossip within the Sanctuary.


"I mean...Katrina certainly seems over-protective of her cub" purred Jasmine. She stretched, her tail hanging high in the air. "Why would I subject my four cubs to that? Luna, in particular, wouldn't like that" continued Jasmine.


Sandra shook her head playfully. Despite her growing annoyance with Jasmine, she was the closest 'friend' she had within the Sanctuary.


After all, none of the other Big Cats had come from the Old Zoo.


Sandra snapped out of her daydream, noticing Jasmine eyeing Katrina curiously. Jasmine had that playful look in her eye. Sandra just shook her head, not wanting to put up with Jasmine's shenanigans right now.


In reality, Jasmine has sat up. She was eyeing Katrina who appeared very uneasy. "What's her problem? She needs to lay back a bit more. She's stifling Alex's natural curiosity" thought Jasmine. She shook her head as she noticed Katrina had already moved in to remove Alex from the other cubs.


Just like she'd done ever since they had returned to the New Zoo.


"I should try to get her to lighten up...if only a little" thought Jasmine. "Besides, Kiara could do with some more time with her friend" continued Jasmine internally.


It was then a familiar scent came across her muzzle. Jasmine looked around, noticing Andrew entering the Feline Sanctuary. He quickly laid upon one of the rocks within, confusing Jasmine as to why he would bother. Sandra didn't seem to notice that her mate had walked inside as Jasmine felt a familiar need. It was becoming more difficult to resist as she began to look around for Derek needily.


Jasmine, oblivious to what was going on around her, didn't notice Nina and Coco approaching the Sanctuary to look at the Big Cats. Sandra, on the other hand, did so as she figured she might as well alert her 'friend' to the possibility of being able to show herself off.


"Jasmine... looks like we've got company" purred Sandra, snapping Jasmine out of her trance. Jasmine looked around, noticing the newcomers as she laid back down, eying them curiously.


Her need would have to wait.


Meanwhile:


Nina and Coco approached the Feline Sanctuary, Nina taking care to keep an eye on Coco following her earlier incident. The pair soon noticed an overhead sign, indicating that they had arrived.


"We're here" squealed Coco joyously as she looked into the Sanctuary. She eyed Sandra and Jasmine curiously. Unknowingly, the pair were playing 'dumb' to the girl, clearly thinking the human watching was rather clueless.


Nina quickly joined her friend. She noticed Coco was staring at the lioness intently as Nina smiled. "Glad to see she's enjoying herself," thought Nina, noticing Coco's mouth widening in excitement. She took a look inside, noticing Jasmine eyeing her curiously. While something about this spooked Nina internally, her curiosity soon overrode it.


"She certainly looks...nice," thought Nina. She almost swore the panther was playfully 'smirking' at her. However, she dismissed this notion, preferring to enjoy the moment.


Unknown to the pair, Carol was watching the pair intently. She smiled, looking forward to stealing the girl's humanity which, based on their life choices, clearly undeserved. She popped her last bubble on her gum, intending to swallow it before introducing herself.


"It's good they're fans of big cats," thought Carol, beginning to walk forward. "Makes my job easier" continued Carol, soon approaching the girls with only one singular thought on her mind. Determination filled her as she swallowed her strawberry gum.


It was time for Carol to prove herself to Rebecca.


"Welcome to the New Zoo!" called out Carol enthusiastically. Nina and Coco turned around, Carol having caught their attention. "My name is Carol and I'll be responsible for overseeing your community service" continued Carol, holding her hand out for a shake.


Nina and Coco eyed Carol awkwardly but, not wanting to go back to Juvie, they both found their courage to accept Carol's handshake. "The name's Nina," said Nina simply as she shook. She quickly passed on Coco.


"My name's Coco...you have quite an impressive collection of animals," said Coco, her smile wide. She was clearly trying to make a good first impression.


Carol, on the other hand, was able to notice the truth behind Coco's facade. "So...she's insecure?" thought Carol, resisting the urge to smile. The profile was beginning to make more and more sense.


"So...what should we get started on?" asked Nina. She stared curiously at Carol, the woman giving off the wrong impression.


"You...you can help inspect the Lions enclosure while they're out," said Carol. Almost immediately, she noticed their faces widened in shock. "They'll be stuck within the Sanctuary while you do this" reassured Carol.


Fortunately for Carol, Rebecca had been observing her from the Security Room and had already taken the appropriate measures to ensure that Andrew and Sandra wouldn't interfere. The door to the Sanctuary had been closed as the enclosure was prepared to claim its next victims.


"Are you sure that's safe?" asked Nina, her tone uncertain.


"Of course besides...you need to do this or it'll violate your community service order," said Carol, her smile barely concealing sadism.


"Why's she so insistent on this?" thought Nina. "I thought we'd just be doing litter duty or something" continued Nina as she eyed Coco. In contrast, Coco seemed excited about the opportunity. "Ok, we'll do it...how do we get in?" asked Nina, conceding as Carol nodded excitingly.


"Perfect...now follow me," said Carol, quickly skipping off in another direction. Despite their unease, Nina and Coco began to walk after the woman. The threat of being sent back to Juvie had certainly spooked the pair into compliance as they followed Carol.


Within moments, the pair had arrived at the door into the lion enclosure. Carol opened the door, Nina and Coco eying her with uncertainty.


"Now, I'll be back in a bit to check up on you" started Carol, not paying attention to the pair's unease. "I want you to make sure the enclosure's fit for purpose...we guarantee only the best for the animals we have, '' finished Carol, resisting the urge to vomit her last sentence.


Nina and Coco, wanting to get away from this woman, nodded in agreement. They then walked inside as they entered the Lion Enclosure, deciding they should at least get started.


They looked around, Coco, in particular, enjoying the sights. Nina was otherwise indifferent as they eyed the magnificent enclosure which, unknown to them, was soon to be their new home.


It looked like a savannah with warm rocks for the lions to relax on. Tall trees in the enclosure gave the lions some shade if the sunlight was harsh. The flooring had sand alongside some green vegetation. There was a small stream that would allow the lions to stay hydrated within the warm enclosure. A glass ceiling allowed in natural light. Finally, there was a cave in the corner for the lions to sleep. It could also be a possible escape if the enclosure got too hot to be outside.


"Wow this enclosure sure is pretty," said Coco, her mouth still wide with intrigue and curiosity. However, she was also beginning to feel a sense of unease building up within her. Unknown to Coco, her changes were beginning.


Nina, on the other hand, was captivated by a small door within the enclosure. It looked almost like a catflap. Nina would soon learn that this was to give the lions access to the Feline Sanctuary as she felt an uneasy sensation coming across her body.


Carol, having closed the door behind the girls, began to wander off. Her smile widened, no longer trying to conceal the malice within as she did a little victory dance.


"I hope Rebecca's proud of me for helping her transform these undeserving humans," thought Carol. She continued to walk away, leaving the girls to their fate.


Within the Lion Enclosure:


Nina and Coco had continued to look around the enclosure. They both tried to suppress their growing discomfort as they quickly reunited.


"The enclosure seems nice...doesn't it?" asked Nina.


"It...certainly...does" replied Coco, the sensation building within her becoming impossible to ignore. She looked around herself concerned, a fact that did not escape Nina.


"Coco, are you alright?" asked Nina, a concerned expression on her face.


"No..." said Coco weakly. She dropped to her knees as the tingling focused on her stomach. She began to breathe out, her breaths getting faster and faster as she began to feel warm beneath her clothes. Coco began to scratch the area, hoping that would satisfy her itch.


"Coco?" asked Nina, staring at her friend curiously. However, she was promptly distracted by her own itching. She shifted her focus onto herself, noticing something seemed to be forcing its way out from her skin. She eyed it, noticing her arms seemed hairier all of a sudden. She pulled the brown fur intriguingly, her eyes widening as it stayed firmly attached.


"Is...is this fur?" thought Nina, struggling to keep it together. She soon returned her attention to Coco, noticing her friend appeared to be gritting her teeth in pain.


Coco felt a pressure building up in her rear. She felt an increasing amount of discomfort as she was barely holding back tears. "Please...what is this?" thought Coco, the strain of her overalls now proving to be unbearable. Fortunately, the pressure eventually gave way. Something pushed out, tearing through her overall as it began to move around as if it had a mind of its own.


"Wait...is that a...tail?" mumbled Coco, noticing the new limb swishing around. It had a tuft of blond fur like her hair at the tip. It seemed to be moving around as Coco couldn't help but feel...intrigued.

Nina was confused as she eyed Coco's new tail. "Wait...are we becoming...lions?!" thought Nina, trying to deny what was happening to her. Even as she felt another change coming over her, a pressure developed at her rear. Within moments, it burst out, Nina's tail forming as a tuft of black fur formed at its tip. It moved around as if taunting Nina as she looked back, eyeing her new tail.


Nina was distracted with her newly developed tail to notice that Coco was beginning to loosen her overalls. She eventually pulled them down, trying to get a good view of her stomach. As she did so, she could feel a tingling in her hands as she brought them up to her eyes. She watched as her fingers plumped up, dexterity fading away as her nails began to shift. They quickly sharpened, forming new claws as a small smile came over Coco's face.


"I...I know I should be scared of this but...this feels so...nice" thought Coco, smiling as she rubbed her stomach. Her new claws easily tore through her white shirt as she noticed white fur seemed to be developing underneath. She smiled once more, having worked out what was happening to them.


On the other hand, Nina was still rather concerned in comparison to Coco's sense of calm. Nina was busy trying to catch her tail, escaping her grasp every time. She stopped as she took a glance over to her friend. She noticed the smile on Coco's face as confusion began to come over her once more.


"Why is she so calm about this?" thought Nina, having decided to walk over to her. As she did, she felt a sudden 'SNAP' in her back. Nina fell forward, holding her hands out as she fell to all fours. Before she could react, she could feel a tingling coming over her feet as she feared what was about to happen.


"No...not my boots" moaned Nina, feeling their material stretching as she could feel her feet shifting and changing. Anticipating that she would soon have a pair of paws, the pressure continued to build up. Nina could feel her feet cramping terribly as they continued to shift into feline paws. They were obscured by her boots no longer as they finally ripped apart. Nina was now able to get a good look at her back paws, eyeing the sharp claws that had developed. Brown fur like her arms was growing on them, beginning to spread upwards.


"No, stop this...please," thought Nina weakly. She noticed Coco's opposite reaction to what was happening to them. Not thinking of anything better to do, Nina decided to approach her friend. Even as the brown fur began to spread towards her lower body, Nina needed to make sure she was ok.


"You ok Coco?" asked Nina, trying to hide the discomfort from her developing fur.


"I could ask you the same thing," replied Coco, her expression concerned for her friend. "You ok Nina?" asked Coco, her tone somewhat playful.


"How can you be so calm about this? We're becoming animals" said Nina, her tone uncertain and insecure.


"I don't know...it just feels nice" replied Coco, her smile beginning to be contagious. "I also feel this is the best option for us. After all, I don't know about you but...I feel I wouldn't amount to much as a human, especially given our juvenile record" explained Coco simply, her tone sounding rather resigned even as she was looking forward to her changes completing themselves.


"Is...is that how she feels?" thought Nina, feeling hurt as she thought back. She thought back to their past, the influence that Nina had had on Coco. Was this her fault? Would Coco have been better off if she didn't know her?


The questions running through Nina's mind were quickly distracted as she felt a tingling in her hands. She looked down, noticing they were beginning their shift into paws. Her nails sharpened out, becoming claws. Pads began to develop on her palms, soon becoming truly feline. Her fingers then forced themselves together, plumping up as they stuck together. Brown fur began to grow from them like her lower body as she stared at them, intrigued.


"To be fair... there seem to be some advantages to being a lion" thought Nina. She couldn't help but smile as she eyed her changing friend. "I need to protect her, as I've always done," thought Nina, making a promise to herself and her best friend.


"I suppose we should finish together," said Nina, giving off a warm smile as Coco stared joyously at her friend.


"Agreed" Coco said simply. A few tears of joy came from her eyes. She was looking forward to the new life she was about to have, especially since her best friend would be joining her. It was then Coco felt more sensations spread over her body, causing it to feel uneasy as she grunted slightly.


Her body began to forcefully shift, warping beyond recognition. Coco was forced to all fours as her body began to bulk up. Feline muscles pushed against her remaining clothes as they finally burst off her increasingly feline form. Her near white fur covering her entire body was exposed to Nina as Coco felt a tingling in her feet. Her feet began to change, shifting to match her front paws as her developing claws easily tore through her pink sneakers. Coco smiled, admiring her new feline form.


The strangest change, however, was yet to come. Coco felt a strange unease in her stomach. Something was shifting and changing as she felt the magic seemed to be specifically focusing on her pancreas. Coco felt a minor chill come over her briefly. However, once that moment had passed, Coco felt...better than she'd ever felt.


"Did that...has the transformation cured my diabetes?" thought Coco with wonder. She couldn't help but smile, her teeth sharpening to fit her new diet as it truly felt like a new chapter in her life was beginning.


As Coco looked around, she quickly eyed her friend. Despite Nina's clothing still attached to her changing form. It was clear that, like her, Nina was a lioness from the neck down. She noticed Nina's discomfort as she got an idea.


"Need a paw?" asked Coco mischievously. Within moments, Coco had put her claws to good use as she tore Nina's clothing away from her. Nina gave her a grateful look as the soon to be lionesses looked at each other's still human faces.


This didn't last long, however. Coco watched as Nina's face began to stretch out into a muzzle. Nina's teeth seemed to be sharpened like Coco's had done as her nose began to shrink into her face. Whiskers began to push out of her face as her transformation was near completion.


Nina also noticed Coco's muzzle forming as whiskers forced their way out of her cheeks. Coco's nose had also shrunk like Nina's own. She then noticed Coco's ears shifting, noticing her friend's confusion for a moment. "I imagine she lost her hearing for a moment," thought Nina, quickly getting her answer as her ears did the same, becoming rounder as they moved to the top of her head.


Finally, the pair felt their hair begin to shed from their heads. The fur began to spread upwards, covering their new muzzles and faces as if to finally discard their humanity for good. The changes were about to conclude, wrapping the pair in a warm embrace as it did so.


Their transformations had now completed as the pair eyed each other curiously. Nina and Coco were thankful that they could remain together as they admired each other's new form.


They were now a pair of lionesses, both on the smaller side as they snuggled up to each other, trying to find comfort in each other for the moment.


"Congratulations on starting your permanent community service!" announced a loudspeaker. It didn't take the pair long to recognise the obnoxious voice emanating from the loudspeaker.


"Where are you!" roared Nina, her roars of protest being music to Carol's ears.


Instead of getting a response, Nina heard a noise. She and Coco quickly turned, noticing the small door that Nina had seen earlier had unlocked. It began to open, enabling the pair access to whatever was beyond it.


"Instead of arguing with me...how about going to see the others? I'm sure they'll make you feel welcome within the Feline Sanctuary" said Carol, her tone mocking the pair.


"How about instead I tear you apart with my claws?!" roared Nina, looking around. Coco then walked up to her, placing a paw on her back.


"Let it go," said Coco softly, trying to calm her friend. "After all" started Coco, leaning towards her friend's new feline ear. "I'm going to need my protector," whispered Coco. This caused Nina to calm down, her muzzle showing resignation to her situation.


With that, the pair complied. Each of them walked towards the small door which, according to Carol, would take them to the Feline Sanctuary. They each felt a sense of curiosity as they approached the gate, wondering what the future would hold.


They promptly walked inside, onto what they hoped would be a brighter future.


Moments Later:


"Yes...they're certainly better off this way" mused Carol. She let her finger off the button for the portable intercom, content and happy with her performance. "After all, they'll never amount to anything like everyone else transformed here," said Carol gleefully, feeling further excited about working here.


"She's certainly impressive...perhaps she's being sincere?" wondered Rebecca, eying Carol from within the Security Room. "Maybe we should keep an eye on her...just in case?" said Rebecca, eying the Spirit.


"I...I can't put my finger on her yet" admitted the Spirit, unable to find anything suspicious even after scanning Carol's mind. "She's not hiding anything but still...I'll keep an eye on her," said the Spirit. "For now, however, I think she'll be expecting you to congratulate her" finished the Spirit.


"Agreed, to be fair, she was truly impressive today," said Rebecca, sitting up from her chair as she decided to go and find Carol. "Thank you, Spirit" finished Rebecca, smiling softly as she exited the Security Room.


The Spirit was about to fade away but something odd was being picked up on a camera eying the Main Hallway. The Spirit looked curiously, eyeing the newcomers. They were dressed in formal wear and one of them...appeared to be wearing a mask.


"Huh? Strange people" thought the Spirit, paying them no mind as it faded away.


After all, it was feeling peckish and needed to feed.


Within the Main Hallway:


"Wow...I never expected to be back here" mused Samantha. She was wearing a short dark blue dress as her light blue hair was tied back neatly. Her eyes looked around curiously, finding some intrigue and wonder to be had in the majestic design of the Main Hallway.


"Always expect the unexpected...my fellow understudy," said the Man beside her. His voice sounded full of contempt for the girl as if she was wasting his time. His business suit highlighted his formal nature as he held an umbrella in his hand. However, his strangest feature...was the white hare mask that covered his face. He eyed Samantha menacingly as she flattered under the glare of her master.


"Sorry master," said Samantha. Upon the stare she was given, she realised her error. "My lord" corrected Samantha, thankful that he seemed to agree with the title. "Still I wonder what Aaron has been up to...since he joined the New Zoo" mused Samantha.


"We can pay attention to your wants when we're not on business my dear," said the Man, his tone agitated and growing in frustration at the young woman. Samantha bowed her head down as she did so, hoping for forgiveness for her blunder.


Fortunately, the Man seemed to be in a forgiving mood today. He motioned Samantha to look back up, sighing as if she was an embarrassment.


"Now that we've wasted enough time...let's go and find a manager," said the Man. He quickly walked away, Samantha walking alongside him. She looked around, deciding to come back on her own time.


Maybe then...she could atone for at least some of her mistakes.


Returning to the Feline Sanctuary:


Meanwhile, oblivious to the approaching newcomers, Rebecca walked towards the Feline Sanctuary. A small smile was on her face as she noticed Carol looking inwards.


"Congratulations Carol, a few more like that and I'll let you handle them yourself," said Rebecca, praising Carol who responded with a smile and unwavering enthusiasm.


"Thank you, thank you, thank you" replied Carol quickly, looking intently at Rebecca. It was as if Rebecca was the centre of her universe as Rebecca was beginning to feel rather uncomfortable.


"I'm sorry...are we interrupting something?" said a noble yet somewhat snobbish voice. Rebecca and Carol then turned to face the origin of the voice.


Rebecca's eyes widened as she recognized the strange mask the man was wearing. "No...that's not possible," thought Rebecca. Within moments, her hands glowed red with magic as she aimed them at the man in question.


"What are you doing here?!" roared Rebecca, a small inkling of fear present in her voice. Her hands began to glow more intensely as Carol looked on in confusion.


"We mean you no harm my dear" reassured the Man, his expression unable to be interpreted behind his mask.


"That doesn't answer my question!" rebutted Rebecca. Her hands remained red, ever ready to strike down the man before her.


"Now would that be truly necessary, at least hear me out," said the Man, placing his hands up in surrender. Rebecca, despite her better judgement, felt herself calming down as the magic quickly faded away.


The Man had called her bluff.


"Good, now we can get down to business," said the Man, his tone unchanged. It was almost as if he was scolding a child. Rebecca pouted slightly, Carol still watching the situation unfold in confusion.


"What do you want?" demanded Rebecca, her frustrated expression obvious to the Man who barely resisted a chuckle.


"First...dispose of your underling" started the Man. "This is confidential and not for the blindly obsessive" continued the Man. His expression and body language remained unchanged, his confidence shining through as he had complete control of the situation.


"Carol, please leave us," said Rebecca, her tone resigned.


"Why? Who are you people?" asked Carol. "We can take them Rebecca, after all, who carries an umbrella indoors?" continued Carol. "Surely these people aren't that..."


'BANG!'


The sudden bang caused alarm for the group. Except for the Man who it had originated from. Carol looked down, noticing herself feeling woozy as she stared back at the Man.


His umbrella had been aimed directly at her.


"Next time, you better listen to what others say, Lass," said the Man sharply. He waved the umbrella tauntingly at Carol. The smoke coming from its tip revealed a hidden slot. "Be fortunate I only stocked it with tranquillizer this time" finished the Man as he pushed Carol's forehead.


She immediately fell over, the effect of the tranquiliser causing her to pass out. The Man stared at her in disgust, as if she was a stain on the floor.


"Samantha, remove the riff-raff from my sight," said the Man. He clicked his fingers, signalling his understudy into action. Samantha complied, giving a small bow before approaching Carol. She picked the girl up by the arms, her strength from her fitness classes and gym sessions paying dividends as she removed Carol from their sight.


"You didn't need to do that," said Rebecca pointedly, now left alone with the Man.


"How else was I going to get a private audience with you?" questioned the Man, his tone uncaring towards Rebecca's plight. "You know we don't contact people out of the blue" continued the Man.


"Yes, I know" admitted Rebecca, finding the situation becoming increasingly mind-boggling. "I know you and Samantha are from the Society," said Rebecca, her annoyance ringing in her voice.


"Correct, and I have a need for the work you do here" replied the Man. His tone sounded optimistic for the first time since they had started their conversation.


"Ok then...what do you want?" asked Rebecca, her tone indicating she was getting fed up.


The Man eyed Rebecca. He noticed the annoyance in her eyes as he chuckled internally. Nevertheless, it was time to introduce himself and to get down to business.


"My name is Mr Darko...and I want to make a deal," said Mr Darko, offering a handshake to Rebecca. Rebecca could only stare at the hand as she found herself at a loss of what to do.


Regardless of her choice, things were about to get a lot more interesting.