Shadowed Scales

Epilogue

_EPILOGUE_

The sun was setting as most of the animals in Camdon were returning home after a long day of work. However, for some just like Dr Kirk, the evening was just the beginning.

He was still staying back after working hours for his research at the university. He was the only bat to ever work in the astronomy department since most of his colleagues were cats. Sighing to himself, he began to make notes after observing the space probe they have placed on the moon.

Besides the moon, he studied the stars, constellations and the universe as a whole.

"Anything new, Kirk?" a voice behind him asked. It was a grey-stripped cat with white paws and muzzle. He blinked those hypnotic green eyes that held curiosity. Kirk flashed him a smile.

"The same result as always, Smoky. I thought you're going back home?"

The cat lets out a mrrow of laughter. "I would but I also want to know if there really is anything to report. After all, it has been three months."

Although his colleague's words rang true, Kirk wanted to keep an optimistic approach to the situation. In times where carnivores and herbivores were tensed with each other, he tried his best to help both sides.

If anyone asked him about his opinions on war, politics or anything that includes sides, he will try his best to stay neutral about it. After all, neutrality does have its benefits.

Call him a hypocrite, but it was his way of understanding all sides.

"I just hope I can go home and spend some time with my son," said Kirk, writing out his report. He could hear Smoky weaved his way around the observatory. "It must be hard for you to raise a child all by yourself. Are you planning on getting married again?"

The Honduran white bat's glasses almost fell from his face. "Unlikely! Besides, Arthur still needs me, and I am happy with what I have."

Smoky gave him a sympathetic look. "I know but think about it when he's old enough to take care of himself. What are you going to do?"

Kirk was silent for a moment before he answered: "Do the best I can. Life is like a box of chocolates, Smoke. You don't know what to expect."

"Is that what you're thinking of right now?" Smoky challenged him with a lash of his tail. The bat stared at him calmly before nodding. "The work may not be as exciting as camping out in the wildness, but it does put some food on the table. Wouldn't you like that?"

Smoky made a 'hmm' sound while his tail swished irritably. "Still, I want to get out of here. Don't tell me you want to be stuck in this place until you retire, Kirk!"

The Honduran white bat blinked his amber eyes at the cat's yellow ones. He only flashed a smile before he flew out of the observatory when he clocked out. Smoky peered out from the window, watching the bat's white silhouette slowly disappearing into the night.

Smoky clicked his tongue in disbelief. Someday, the bat will have to realise that he must choose a side in this world. No one can ever be in the middle if it meant keeping the world at peace.

Whatever happens to Kirk, may the light guide him.