It was a gathering of sorts, sizes varied from animal to animal but there was a unique array present this late afternoon. The crowd clamoured around the pit fervently waiting in anticipation. It had been no secret who everyone thought went on a spree of arson across the grounds. He was the prime suspect. Inside the exhibit, a lion stared at the crowd with a calmed expression before turning to a Gorilla.
"Bring the first one before they get restless," Leonard ordered.
The primate saluted and ventured toward the exhibit wall behind him.
Leonard glanced up to the brown-feathered Owl perched atop a tree branch.
"Shall we begin?" The Owl asked with a wistful expression.
He nodded as he heard the distant chatter from above, rubbing his throat with his paw. Leonard began to address the crowd: "Everyone, if you have-"
The crowd's restless chatter began to grow louder stifling his soft voice.
"If you have-" He repeated louder as the crowd continued to converse over him. A low growl escaped his throat, his patience wearing thin.
"Hmph, I thought he was supposed to be the king around here." Evil stated blatantly.
After an involuntarily twitch of his eye an abrupt, guttural roar bellowed from the Lion garnering the attention of most the inhabitants in droves as the strong sound crept to their ears.
"One at a time,' He stated solemnly in a hollowed tone. 'If you have something important to contribute, say it in an orderly fashion. Otherwise, don't bother, we have a proceeding to go through."
The crowd slowly quieted down, much to Leonard's relief. An odd snapping sound soon caught his attention. He glanced back at the wall watching as a large step ladder was placed against it allowing a Gorilla to carry a Warthog in its arms as it descended the ladder. A rare, but amusing sight.
"Careful!" The grizzled Warthog exclaimed visibly squirming in the Gorilla's arms.
"Keep your socks on,' He replied gruffly. 'if ya keep squirming, I might drop ya." They slowly continued down the ladder as Leonard placed his attention on the crowd.
"Now-"
"Now!" A ghastly, scratchy voice loudly interjected it made the sounds of nails on a chalkboard sound heavenly in comparison. Leonard turbulently craned his neck toward the source, a small green parrot perched on the branch beside the Owl.
"I thought it'd be apt to have someone keep a record of what we say. I hope that isn't a problem." He stated with a wily smirk.
Leonard squinted quizzically at the bird in question, his anger boiling down. "Perhaps, tell him to only repeat specific details when necessary."
"So in other words…When you deem it convenient." A low voice blurted aloud. Leonard's eyes cautiously wandered back to the black bear sitting beside Evil.
He squinted obliquely at the bear and spoke in a hushed tone. "Keep quiet." He instructed firmly as he quickly directed his attention back to the crowd.
The black bear cautiously furrowed his brow but adopted silence for the moment. A Warthog trotted along the grounds past the Lion making its way over to the bear.
Leonard took a deep breath before resting his gaze on the crowd above.
"My fellow inhabitants, lend me your ears. It has become grossly apparent of the blatant misconduct he has caused time and time again..." His eyes drifted to the captive briefly, a tiny glimmer in his eye.
The wandering eyes of the inhabitants rested on the grey bear still tied to the rock, he narrowed his brow in response. Unashamedly smirking smugly at those openly leering at him. "It's not like there's anything better to do." Evil sarcastically muttered while rolling his eyes.
"Squawk! It's not like there's anything better to do!" He craned his neck up at the Parrot resting on top of the rock and gave a bitter scowl.
Leonard held back the urge to grin briefly covering his maw with his paw. "And as you heard, he doesn't plan on stopping anytime soon."
Fighter placed his paw on his face and shook his head discouraged as he continued.
"Exile is the best course of action. Surely, it may seem harsh but we all know how destructive he can be. His influence has been in no way pernicious, and if his last exploit were a sure sign of his growing malicious intent. Then rest assured: this will happen again..."
"Hey," A raucous voice spoke out, failing at hushing its tone. In response, Fighter shut his eyes concentrating on the sound of Leonard's voice.
Nevertheless, instinctively he felt his nose twitch at an odd scent. It was not the dry, musky aroma that caught his attention. Nor the sharp, artificial stench wafting around the pig like flies to dung. It was masking something else. Odd, yet familiar, it reminded him of something sweet, appetizing even. But he could not quite place it, not with the delightful mixture of cigarettes, musk, and mud invading his nostrils. He felt his toes curl pre-emptively into the ground, something wasn't quite right. He could feel it in his gut.
"Oi! Scruffy!..." The voice stated louder, his eyes opened as he regrettably glanced down at the one-eyed Warthog narrowing his brow.
"Yea?"
"You got any money on ya?" His question accompanied with a cryptic smile.
Fighter's eyes narrowed darkly at the question, silently shaking his head dismissively.
"Not even a little?" He stated flatly.
"No." He replied in a bilious tone, the Warthog chuckled deeply in response.
"Ha-ha, that's a shame. He needs all the help he can get right now."
A bribe, how quaint. He thought.
At this point, he wouldn't be surprised at the 'credibility' of Leonard's witnesses.
"What's wrong? Lose all your money gambling?" Evil chided with a smirk and a subtle rise of his brow.
The Warthog furrowed his brow, choosing to ignore him. "A bit of advice: back off." He coughed abruptly before spitting on the ground. He stared up at Fighter obstinately. "You look like the type of mammal who can't keep their trap shut."
Evil squinted and gave a scowl. He's not wrong.
The Warthog paused looking away for a moment. "If I were you, I'd shut up and let him do what he has to do...It's for the best." He stated in a dour tone, the bear blankly stared at the pig. On closer inspection, he noticed it had something around its neck.
"Oh yeah, I'm sure expelling a vindictive outcast won't yield us any unforeseen consequences." He shook his head knowingly. "Throwing him out solve won't a damn thing."
The Warthog leered openly. "Watch your mouth, kid or..."
"Your going suffocate me with your rancid smoker's breath?" He held his beige snout for effect. "Two words, pork-chop: breathe mints."
Evil snickered at the insult as the Warthog scoffed aloud at his remark. "Alright. Let's see how far your mouth will get you."
Again, Fighter felt his gut sink at his words. The two grew silent as Leonard's voice droned on.
"Let's be transparent for a moment…It is only through fortuitous blundering we remain meek and lowly to our handlers. If we let him run awry, I fear our livelihoods will become hazardous. And I for one will not allow that to come to pass..."
Leonard stared openly at the Owl with a stern expression. "Now, I will present the evidence of his misconduct… As always, this will be a fair trial."
His words did not sit well, a bitter taste to some. Who hadn't had a gripe with Evil? A grudge was common as a cold, he knew that and it was only a matter of time before someone had to intervene. It was his duty after all.
The sound of a familiar clanking caught his attention, he glanced at black bear openly. He stood across wearing a frank expression, cracking his neck lightly while his cuffs clattered. Leonard rose his paw signaling the animal to speak.
"Proceed," Leonard stated with an air of confidence.
"Why aren't any of his…" Fighter openly scanned the audience above him. He stopped briefly, eyes darting toward the Lion and back to the chained rock. 'Friends here on his behalf?" He couldn't help but sound dubious at the question. The crowd above began to murmur cautiously, he saw their weary, vexed expressions. He ignored them as he got his reply.
"We don't want bias sources representing the accused. To my knowledge, they had a hand in tampering with the scene that day."
"Ah…I was unaware." Fighter's eyes narrowed darkly, his explanation hadn't convinced him in the slightest.
"Indeed, that's fine..." Leonard stopped pre-emptively, averting his gaze.
"May I make a suggestion?" He asked.
Leonard glanced back, the bear hadn't sat down. He stifled a sigh as continued to listen.
"If he wants, I could speak on his behalf." He stated with an honest smile.
The Lion gave a silent predatory glare, adopting a mirthless tone as if he was addressing a cantankerous customer. "I'm sorry, but that's-"
"Actually," Another voice cut in, the Owl rose his wing apprehensively and spoke. 'it might be good to have another perspective. It's only fair." He said raising his brow dubiously at the Lion.
Leonard nodded begrudgingly, his paw held closely to his chest. "You may speak on his behalf, for now."
Evil squinted and gave a dissatisfied frown. "Can I get another?"
Fighter scowled openly and peered over his shoulder to give him a dirty look. Evil smiled warmly at his response.
"Hey, I'd rather not have a half-baked comedian as my only line of defense." He remarked.
Fighter absently rolled his eyes and walked toward the Lion. "Let's just get this over with…" He stated discouraged.
"That's the spirit," Leonard replied, covering his snout with an aggravated look as the Warthog trod toward them with a sullen expression on his face. He glared at them both absently his eye wandered to the lion with a cryptic-meaningful look, he shook his head dismissively.
The Lion understood and briefly coughed into his paw causally. "As I recall, you have some evidence from the crime scene," Leonard stated.
The Warthog reached for a pouch around its neck, he lingered over it. His hoof hovered over the bag as he glanced at the bear. Then, lowered his hoof. "Actually, I was also a victim of theft." He added.
Leonard stared blankly at him. "I'm sure that could be addressed lat-"
"It all started a few months ago, real early in the morning after a loud crash woke everyone up…"
Leonard held back the urge to scowl. Instead, digging his paw into the ground discouraged.
At the same time, his words slowly began to rustle up Fighter's memory. The revelation had hit him like a truck. Crrrrap…He thought.
Immediately, he knew this wasn't going to be easy.
"After he got up he threatened us," The Warthog stated.
Fighter squinted sourly, keeping a blank expression.
"Severely injured one of us…" He added.
Fighter rubbed his chin pensively. We kicked four at minimum, the tree branch on the other hand…
A familiar sensation made the hairs on his neck stand on end. He consciously glanced over his shoulder, Evil had been glaring at him. The moment he caught his attention he started to mouth out something inaudibly. He could parse the words: Don't f... He smirked amused briefly at the vulgar miming, slowly turning his attention back to the task at hand.
Fortuitously, he was met with another's gaze. It was brief, the Lion was quick to avert his gaze but he was sure Leonard had been starring. Presumably for the entirety of the animal's recollection. He gave a silent nod, affirming his gaze. He covered his maw to stifle a fake yawn before closing his eyes and looking away.
Leonard's eyes narrowed sharply, his paw reaching for his mane...
"Is the smell bothering you?" He asked causally, Leonard's eyes darted to the bear staring directly at him. A coy half smile graced his lips.
Leonard lowered his paw as the others glanced over at him, he let out a small cough. "Yes... Among other things," He said flatly staring coldly at the Warthog. "It's nothing, continue."
Fighter absently scratched his ear. Now that begs the question…
"...And top it off they stole our apples..." The Warthog added with an aggravated tone.
Fighter sighed inwardly. "Would you excuse me for a moment?" Without even waiting for a reply, he dragged his feet quickly toward the chained captive.
The Owl rose his brow suspiciously at his sudden departure.
The chained captive watched the bear walk up to him with a waned smile, Evil's brow rose impatiently.
"How do you disarm the doll?" Fighter asked genuinely in a hushed tone folding his arms. He blinked blankly then looked around as if he hadn't heard the question, a weary sigh escaped Fighter's maw. "Oh come on, we both know it's more dangerous in his hands right now."
Evil rolled his eyes with a dissatisfied scowl, he was right. "Break the connection." He replied.
Fighter rose his brow dubiously. "And how," He stopped suddenly, glancing back at Lion pensively before staring back at him. "does that work exactly?"
"Just snatch it from him. I'll do the rest." He said with a smirk.
Fighter had a joyless look in his eye coupled with a blank stare. "Easier said than done."
"Squawk, easier said than done." His shoulders shot up like a piston as he heard the fowl screech of the bird.
"Dannazione…" i) He cursed. He felt his brow furrow before turning his head back to the group. Each of them watched Fighter dubiously.
"Is there anything you wish to add?" Leonard stated loudly starring suspiciously at the two.
Evil scowled openly, annoyed by his tone. "Can't we have a private conversation without you-" A black paw quickly covered his mouth. He silently glared with a mad, contemplating look aimed at Fighter.
"No." Fighter stated with an uneasy smile, he quickly walked back to the group as they all watched him intently.
"It's your turn to take the floor," Leonard stated.
Fighter glanced up at the Owl cautiously, the nocturnal avian watched him inquisitively as it tilted its head. "Well..."
A low snort interjected, "What's there to talk about? He's a large pain in our collective asses. Anyone with a functioning brain knows how dangerous he is." The Warthog stated callously with a scowl, he gestured over to Evil with his horns. "Just look at him."
The group glanced over at the bear in question as Evil returned their gaze with a pleasant, mischievous smirk.
Fighter folded his arms while giving a skeptical expression. "Alright, ignoring that. We're just going to assume it's him?" He stated pointing his thumb at the crowd causally. "Honesty, a pair of monkeys could have easily burnt the place down."
A loud uproar of boos came from the audience, most of which were high pitched screeches.
The Warthog snorted defiantly, his gaze falling on the black bear. "He's dangerous, a ticking time bomb.' He crept uncomfortably close. "And I think you know that."
Fighter glanced down as the scrutinizing gaze of the animal lingered on him. The Pig's partial countenance was meet with an impassive expression, eyes narrowing as his warm breathe grazed his waist. "It's true that he's a bit maligned but his attacks have a pattern. Eye for an eye."
He lightly tapped the pig's brow for emphasis. It withdrew from his touch with a low growl.
The crowd clamoured at the statement, from the sound of the constant murmurs there seemed to be a mix of uncertainty...
"Oh yeah, and what have I done to that idiot." The Warthog blurted aloud keeping his gaze.
"Aside from assaulting our senses… nothing." Fighter stated candidly with a smile.
A few fits of loud yelps erupted from the audience as the Warthog snorted, his eyes widened with a look of baleful intent. He wasn't amused.
"But that's not the point. Judging from your description of his behaviour, which has nothing to do with the pavilion mind you,' He smirked playfully. 'He seemed to have only wanted the apples, there had been no ill intent aimed toward you at all..." He punctuated deliberately.
"Would you've even given the apples if he asked?"
A low mumble came from the pig. He dug his hoof into the dirt.
"What was that?" He mockingly rose his paw to his ear.
"Hell no! They're ours!" He exclaimed angrily, baring his horns at the bear threateningly. 'You had no right to take em' in the first place, jackass!"
Leonard stepped between them, turning his head to the pig. A low growl accompanied his stern gaze as he obstructed the Warthog.
The Owl cautiously stared at the Warthog. "Now, now, settle down. Let's get back on topic."
Leonard slowly nodded in agreement. "Now focus, just tell us..."
"Hold on! I got something to say!" The Grizzled Warthog snorted aloud, visibly vexed as he glared at the bear. "This punk was..."
"I was there." Fighter interjected in a low tone, much to the annoyance of the Warthog.
"What?" Leonard stated surprised glancing over his shoulder.
"He was there, He was there!" The parrot repeated atop Evil's head.
"We were hungry, so we tried to get enough for all of us. They were the ones that started to attack us first." Fighter stated.
"We were defending our property!" The Warthog stomped the ground for emphasis.
"Do you ask the trees for their apples?" A calm voice stated from above, it was enough to cause the pig to pause prompting an annoyed, stupefied expression aimed at the Owl.
"Do you?" The Nocturnal Sage asked again tilting his head.
"Of course not, that's freakin' stupid!" He exclaimed.
"A tree does not ask to be shelter, nor a source of food as we borrow it's resources wholeheartedly. After all, any creature can acquire them from simply climbing it. So, I find your claim of ownership rather faulty."
Evil rolled his eyes at his nonsense. "Crazy old c-" He stopped, looking up at the bird above his head. The bird opened its beak..."Don't." Evil's eyes widened maniacally.
The bird shrivelled briefly before flying toward The Owl, Evil smirked smugly.
"I won't ignore their trespassing into your home, but you didn't need to escalate the situation." He inhaled solemnly, closing his eyes briefly. "Now, can we please focus." The Owl stated firmly.
The Warthog peered at the Owl silently, then grumbled annoyed at his words. "Right, aside from the burnt grass..." He pulled out a clump of dark coloured fur from the bag around his neck. "It's not much but his scent is all over this." He stated confidently.
"You sure? Anyone could burn a clump of hair and get the same results." Fighter added skeptically.
"Regarding that,' Leonard interjected. 'We have animals here with the best olfactory senses. If you're still skeptical, then we could easily compare." He suggested. "Are there any elephants in the audience?!"
The black bear's eyes narrowed suspiciously.
A loud trumpeting noise erupted from the crowd, Leonard gestured his cohort toward Evil.
Fighter glanced to exhibit wall, ears perked as he blankly stared across the grounds. At first, he felt relieved. A familiar face would help immensely at this moment, a few new possibilities crossed his mind. He watched the crowd disperse for the Elephant...A foreign trunk hung down the rail. He sighed in response.
"Owww!" Evil painfully exclaimed. He shifted his attention to the Gorilla, it stomped over with a tiny clump of fur in it's paw.
The Primate quickly grabbed the evidence and walked toward the trunk at the edge of the exhibit. He held the clump up to Elephant's trunk, then held the burnt clump immediately after. They stared up at each other silently, the Elephant nodded it's head and withdrew its trunk.
"Yup, it's the same." The Primate said as it peered back toward the group.
Leonard gave a small confident smirk before returning to his neutral expression as he began to speak. "I'd also like to mention another piece of evidence. Despite the attempt to wash it away, we found a symbol after the fact."
He started to carve into the dirt below, slowly but surely he drew the symbol out for all to see. A crude circle with six lines adjacent to one another making an inverted star. "As you can see, this symbol is very familiar." He waved his paw out openly toward their captive, the Gorilla saw the gesture and nodded marching over to the rock, moving the chains apart to reveal a red unholy symbol on the bear's belly.
The Owl peered at Evil, slowly examining both symbols as the primate abruptly put the chains back into place. He squinted down at the ground. "I can definitely see the resemblance..."
The Lion glanced over to Fighter. "Thoughts?" Leonard stated with raised brow toward the black bear, barely changing his expression.
"Yea. Explain that." The Warthog added gruffly.
Fighter rose his brow dubiously at them both, tilting his head to the side. "Yeah, don't you think it's…Suspicious he'd leave something so damning that it would be immediately obvious who did it?" He glanced at Evil and gave a skeptical look.
Leonard glanced at Evil briefly. "The culprit is...unhinged. I doubt he'd be in a reasonable state of mind to cover his tricks. In fact, I believe he'd want everyone to know. To instill fear within those who witnessed his actions...Wouldn't you agree?" He turned to Fighter with a knowing look.
"Ah, ah, ah, your leading," Owl stated with his wing raised.
"Right, Sorry. However, my point still stands.' He rose a single digit apprehensively. 'But if I were to entertain the idea of a copycat or forgery. It seems plausible, after all, the execution is rather amateur at best." Leonard furrowed his eyes discontentedly.
A low rapping noise rang in earshot of Leonard, the sounds of claws grinding against stone. He turned his head toward the source as the captive stared directly at Leonard forcibly biting his lip as he started to rustle around in his chains. And to his credit, not a single word escaped his lips.
Leonard turned his attention back to the other bear. "Unfortunately, that idea is neither here nor there." He stated as a matter of fact. 'Though, I'm curious. Why would your kin hide his failed attempt at terror?" He asked as his eyes rested on him, he noticed a calm smirk form from his opponent.
"This is a community, right? We help each other. I doubt we'd want to have any amount of evidence leading back to us...Why wouldn't they destroy the evidence?" He reasoned as he shrugged openly while raising his paws.
Leonard nodded at the answer. "A fair point, but something is still bothering me...Can I ask you a question?" He stared directly at Fighter intently
"You've asked me one already, what's another one to the pile..." He replied sarcastically, he was meet with a furrowed brow.
"Where were you doing his spree of mayhem?" He asked.
It took him a moment to respond, he kept an impassive look. "I was on my way there...I slept in." He stated dryly, his ear twitched briefly.
"Hmmm, then I can infer that you haven't a clue what transpired during the events?"
Well, Genius. What do you have to say for yourself? His life is in your hands now...
He grew quiet, the beating of his heart growing louder to his ear, the only sound that came close to it was the sound of rapping claws into the dirt. "Well?" He asked again, growing impatient.
Fighter absently stared at Leonard. "No."
The Lion squinted at him intently before nodded firmly. "Interesting. What…Convenient ignorance." The bear stayed silent as the Lion walked toward Evil slowly wearing a stern expression. 'Perhaps we need to get the answers straight from the source."
"Hold up-" Fighter stepped forward, only to be blocked by the grizzled Warthog. He glanced up the Owl questionably.
"He's allowed to do this, as are you." The Owl stated.
That's not what I'm worried about...
He watched from afar as the Lion stood in front of Evil, the crowd growing anxious as he spoke louder for the rest to hear.
"Well? Would you like to actually add something of substance toward your hearing?" He asked.
Evil met his gaze silently mumbling under his breathe.
Leonard scowled in exasperation as he moved closer. "Speak up, boy. We can't hear you..."
They both glared at one another for a moment, a content, sly smirk formed from Evil's lips. "You've still got a bit of spit on you..." He muttered silently cocking his brow.
There was something in his eyes, it wasn't anger but it was very close to it. He stuck with an iron glare turning his back with a low scoff.
Fighter let out a small gasp of relief, he absently clasped his left paw and cracked his knuckles.
"Need I say more? His silence speaks volumes."
Fighter glared solemnly at Leonard. He shoved the Boar aside, feet dragging along the ground as he marched forward. A small gap was left between them. "His silence only speaks for your clear bias. Your hostility is blatantly apparent."
"Preposterous!" Leonard exclaimed indignantly.
"Please! You've got the both of us held here like we're prisoners."
His eyes dimmed."You're not a prisoner." He stated with a somber tone.
"Really?!" He pointed to his handcuffs. "Could've fooled me."
Reflexively, he averted his gaze. As he stared back he could see the frustration in his eyes. The Lion bit his cheek as the bear continued to rant.
"Hell, he's practically held here against his will. Forget about answering questions I'd be a little miffed too if I was met with this much hostility!"
The lion's brow narrowed discouraged, his tone rose in cadence as his paws dug into the dirt. "That's to ensure he can't leave." He stated firmly standing his ground.
Unconsciously, the Lion stepped forward closing the gap…
Fighter leaned toward him with an exasperated expression, furrowing his brow dubiously. "He can't run.' He clenched his fist and openly slammed it down onto his open paw. "He'd have to outsmart you, the entirety of your men and the general populace." He pointed to each for emphasis.
"Wouldn't be that hard…" Evil muttered rolling his eyes.
Leonard stubbornly narrowed his eyes. "True, but-"
Fighter pointed his finger accusingly at the feline. "Matter of fact, why wasn't there a note or some type of notice sent to us? What's this shady level crap your trying parade as common practice?!"
"It isn't common for us to do this, it's a special case." He replied adamantly.
And another step was made…The two animals stared each other down.
"And why is he so special?" He asked.
The Owl glanced down at Leonard resting his wing beneath his chin. "He has a point..."
Leonard stood above the bear staring blankly at him. "His volatile transgressions have earned this." He shook his head and sighed taxingly. "We seem to be getting off topic again."
Fighter leered openly at his attempt to change the subject. "Oh no, I think we're getting to the meat of this argument because you seem to be ignoring that he was a victim too."
Leonard gave a skeptical look, he seemed appalled at the notion.
"Second-degree burns, stab wounds." He recounted causally on his fingers. "Dude was out for a month."
The Owl glanced over to Evil, "Is this true?"
"I've got the scars to prove it." Evil stated aloud.
Many of the animals were skeptical, clamouring amongst themselves.
"We did have a moment of peace after though…" One of the animals said.
"Doesn't mean it's true!" Another voice exclaimed vexed. "How'd he get stabbed?!"
"Besides, if he was hurt, he'd probably... wouldn't go out alone…"
The crowd slowly quieted for a moment at the thought.
Leonard gave Fighter a dissatisfied look. "Regardless, he was the cause of the event. A fact you seem to be ignoring." He remarked resolutely.
"Alright…" Fighter rose his hands unapologetically. "Even if he was the cause of the event, wouldn't that be enough?"
He shook his head begrudgingly at the bear.
"Those who remain unopposed in their way of thinking don't change," Leonard stated solemnly.
"Everybody has the capacity to change, for better or worse." Fighter replied, crossing his arms.
"Even so, would you let his actions go unpunished? Invalidate all those who've been affected by his selfish acts? Is that what you're suggesting?" His eyes fell on him.
Fighter paused looking down pensively as he grew silent. He tapped his feet absently.
Leonard kept his stoic expression, heeding his silence. "He needs to be held accountable and I intend to see to it." He stated firmly without remorse.
The bear looked up with a stone-faced expression and spoke in a louder tone. "He doesn't deserve-"
"Squawkkk!" A deafening screech cut in between the two.
"That'll be enough. I believe you have another animal to speak as a witness?" The Owl asked.
Leonard nodded begrudgingly glancing at the edge of the exhibit. He slowly walked toward the wall with the step ladder pressed against it. The grizzled Warthog took one last look at both of the bears before waddling behind the Lion.
Evil tilted his head curiously at Fighter as he sat down beside him, plopping down on the floor and placing his back against a rock. "I'm surprised you lasted this long." He remarked cheekily.
Fighter growled openly laying his head on the stone. "It's the first proceeding out of what? Four? Five?! Hell, if I know." He narrowed his eyes darkly as he stared ahead.
Evil chuckled briefly at his misery. "It could be worst, you could be stuck here, getting the stink-eye from each of their wretched mugs." He watched a monkey leer at him, leaning against the rail of the exhibit. "Do you mind letting me borrow your hands? There's an obscene gesture I want to share with- " He noticed the bear hadn't lifted his gaze from Leonard's group, he sighed reluctantly. "You listening?"
No reply.
He craned his neck toward his curved ear and spoke into it. "I hate to tell you this but you've got a bad case of Resting Bitch Face right now."
He watched Fighter slowly smirk before letting out a guffaw of laughter. Grinning from ear to ear.
Evil rolled his eyes. "Gawking at them won't help."
Fighter smirked smugly while closing eyes. "Good point….Eh, if it makes you feel any better. I could stop now, save us both the trouble." He mused with a half-baked smile.
Evil playfully pouted, rolling his eyes. "Nope. I'd rather see how far you dig a hole for us. This definitely isn't in my favour."
"Couldn't imagine why…" Fighter sarcastically remarked as his eyes crept to ground inquisitively. He briefly shook his head and reached for the fanny pack on the ground.
Ziiiiiiiip! Ziiiiiiiip!
The scratching sound repeated over and over again. It made Evil crane his neck to glance down at Fighter. He had the fanny pack on his lap as he absently fiddled with the zipper.
"Stop. That." He remarked with an annoyed tone.
"I need something to take mind off this..." He stated peering at the trio across the grounds, specifically the Lion in particular.
Zip! Zip! Zip!
Evil felt his eye twitch, he closed his eyes before slowly exhaling. "I have been kidnapped, robbed of my possessions, tied to a rock and forced to listen to insipid non-sense..." He glared down at the bear. "The least you could do is not annoy me to death…" he punctuated with clenched teeth.
Fighter paused, his eye laid on Evil's face intently. He could tell at a glance his eyes were weary, drained...He promptly placed the fanny pack at Evil's feet.
Evil glanced down with a distasteful scowl at the current state of his fanny pack, it was riddled with holes. "Freaking heathens have no respect, I have to sow that up now…" He continued to madly rave on. "They're all lucky I don't have my tools right now…"
Fighter's eyes narrowed sharply, he hadn't forgotten about the threat looming over his head: the doll.
How am I going to do this?
He wasn't going to give it to him anytime soon.
I need to get closer to him without raising suspicion…
Fighter craned his head down momentarily lowering his gaze, his eyes dilated. It finally hit him. He rose up suddenly, startling Evil. And without a word, he picked up the worn fanny pack and clipped it around his waist. Unzipping it as he marched toward the group across the grounds.
Evil watched him dubiously as he walked toward Leonard with his paws behind his head. He curiously glanced at the group standing at the wall hearing their faint murmurs across grounds, he couldn't discern their conversation even if he wanted to.
The Warthog scratched his face with his hoof. "I think we did good. Not too shabby." He stated satisfied.
Leonard abased his head, leering openly at the Warthog. "You explicitly disobeyed me and your impertinence gave him leverage." He stated in a low tone, his tail brushing angrily against the wall. He kept a watchful eye past the Pig.
The Warthog rolled its eyes and snorted loudly. "You're blowing this way out of proportion." He watched the feline point his paw forward as his brow narrowed ominously. He peered back curiously to see Fighter walking leisurely toward the group with a crocodile-esque smirk.
"Does that, look like someone who is shaken to you?" Leonard asked.
The Gorilla tilted his head quizzically. "He looks like about shank someone."
At first, Leonard was affronted by the comment he stared at his cohort sternly before shifting his gaze and adopting a jovial smirk. He noticed the Warthog hadn't stopped staring at the oncoming visitor. "Hmm, perhaps he's still hungry. I could go for a shank myself right now." He goaded nonchalantly, he and his cohort shared a glance.
The Primate curiously stared at the Warthog, its ears flattened, eyes shifting from the bear to the wall cautiously. He almost thought the comment was in earnest, but his tone made it apparent of his intention: A cruel punishment.
A coy smile formed from the Gorilla's lips. "What's wrong? Nervous?" He asked the Warthog.
"No…I'm not…I'm-" He felt a paw settle on his spine, he quickly stared blankly at the owner.
"He could be perturbed about that 'brainless' comment before. I wouldn't hold it against him." Leonard suggested, he glanced over at his cohort. "I know you're not into this sort of thing but what's your preference, fore or hind-shank?" He said callously picking his claws.
The Primate shrugged. "Eh, it depends."
"Right, stringy cuts are always the worst." He purposefully let his claw rap unto his spine like a pianist playing the piano. The Pig's spine stiffened upon contact as the bear stopped in front of them.
"Hey, can I-"
"Boy, a question.' Leonard blatantly interjected over the Pig addressing Fighter causally. 'Which type of meat cut do you prefer?"
Fighter absently stared at Leonard taken aback at the question his eyes shifted from left to right. "Uh…A rump, I guess?"
"Ahh, it seems were at opposite ends of the spectrum in preference." He cupped his chin pensively. "Even so, I'd love some pork ears. I hear they're quite...Delicious." The Lion loudly licked his lips, paw still residing on the Pig's back.
Fighter rose his brow dubiously, trying to hold back a smile. His eye swept to the silent Warthog. "Is Smokey, alright?" The Pig had become as docile as a lamb, if he hadn't known any better it looked like he turned into a barrow.. ii)
"Hmph, maybe we should get his ears checked?" Fighter rose his brow dubiously.
Leonard covered his maw, he almost chuckled.
The Warthog violently craned his neck toward Fighter. "Look who's talking, lefty!" He exclaimed visibly upset, snout flaring. A tightening grip clasped unto his spine as the bear furrowed his brow.
"He seems pale. Perhaps he needs a checkup." Leonard suggested as the Warthog's ears flattened on cue.
"Annnd he's had enough." The Gorilla lifted the disgruntled Warthog in one arm and walked to the ladder.
"Could you please bring the next one," Leonard asked as he glanced over his shoulder.
The Gorilla craned his head and nodded mid-step, his leg briefly trembling.
"Careful, don't strain yourself, you want ma to worry?" The other Gorilla asked looking down at him.
The primate grumbled under his breathe with a clenched paw as he slowly climbed the ladder with the Pig over his shoulder.
Leonard shifted his attention to the bear solemnly. "Now then, what brings you here?"
"I…Wanted to apologize for before. I was out of line." He stated firmly, raising his paws apologetically.
Leonard blinked blankly. "Oh, that's…Big of you." He sounded unsure, briefly adopting a queer tone. "But no need, it's the nature of things it can bring out the worst in us." He couldn't help but notice his fixed gaze.
"Is something wrong?"
Fighter tilted his head quizzically. "You've got something…" He tapped his face giving an odd look.
Leonard's eyes narrowed at the gesture, he rose his paw to wipe his face as the memory of Evil made his blood boil adopting a scowl.
Funny, could've sworn it would have dried off by...
He stared blankly down at the bear, Fighter smiled innocently. He glanced at his paw, residue from the dirt had clung to it. An irritable sigh reflexively came from his throat.
"Hold on,' Fighter paused, coughing into his paw. 'Let me help...Think of it as an honest gesture." He bowed shortly before reaching into his pack, Leonard's brow narrowed dubiously.
"Look, we both know what you're here for. Just go back to your…" He rose his paw twirling his wrist around awkwardly and paused with a quizzical expression. "Neighbour, I suppose." He narrowed his eyes sourly as Fighter pulled out a white napkin, the feline craned his face away from his contact, Fighter eyes narrowed.
"Do you really want walk around with dirt on your face?" He tilted his head quizzically as Leonard gave a silent glare. "C'mon, it's even in your beard! Where's your dignity?!" He exclaimed with an open-handed gesture.
They both shared a glance.
Leonard slowly drifted his head away while keeping a eye contact, his head lightly tapped against the wall. A low cough escaped his throat.
Fighter gave a disgruntled frown, shaking his head.
With a low sigh the Lion begrudgingly knelt down, he felt the soft texture of the napkin against his cheek and...the absence of a paw in his mane.
"There..." He pulled his paw back and pocketed the napkin.
Leonard rose his head abruptly. "Thank you…" And paused at the added weight on his person.
"Uh oh."
He knew immediately that spelled trouble. The feline stared down at the bear dubiously as Fighter wore a concerned expression, his feet dangling in the air.
"I'm...Stuck…" He expressed flatly adopting an embarrassed tone.
"Oh good lord…"
"H-hold on…"
Leonard heard the sound of laughter above the exhibit, he would have shot them a glare if not for Fighter haplessly clinging to his mane. He felt a pair of feet clutch unto him along with a familiar clattering. "Be sure to have a firm…"
"Cazzo!" iii)
Thwomp!
With a loud thud, the bear landed flat on his back coughing loudly as his paws covered his chest. "Are you alright?" Leonard asked concerned.
Clink.
Fighter shook his head, slowly rising up off the ground. He abruptly turned his back to him. "I'm fine." He groaned out, rolling his shoulders.
"Hmm, still a bit clumsy, eh?" Leonard suggested as he brushed his mane.
"If the shoe fits…" Fighter muttered as he waddled back toward Evil. A low zipping noise could be heard by the feline's honed hearing…
Leonard narrowed his eyes as he watched the bear walk back, a small smile crept from the corner of his mouth.
"Hey!" A loud voice yelled.
He glanced above, he could see the top of an animal's head bobbing up and down at the edge of the rail, it's long brown ears flopping about. A constant thumping rhythm accompanied its movement. From what he could discern his cohorts were trying to coax the animal into allowing one of them to carry it over, it wasn't going to oblige.
"No need to baby me, I can do this myself." He heard it replying before the thumping rhythm ceased. He narrowed his brow dubiously. Did-Did he…An abrupt thud came from a bush across him leaving leaves scattered about as the animal laid uncomfortably into it.
"Ow…That's gonna' sting later." He heard the Kangaroo mutter.
Leonard stared blankly at him adopting an addled expression completely bewildered by his sudden choice of action. The only sensible theory for it was to maintain pride, he could understand that. Albeit, with a grain of salt.
The Kangaroo glanced over at him noticing his expression, it coughed forcefully before quickly picking himself up and bounding toward the Owl's Perch.
Leonard followed suit, stopping in front of the tree as the Kangaroo bowed its head. "Thank you for having me." The marsupial stated firmly to the Owl.
The Owl smiled warmly in response. "It's our pleasure, please proceed with your testimony when you're ready."
The Kangaroo nodded, then glanced over to Evil. "I saw him around noon, he was wandering around the west-end with a bunch of stuff. Flammable liquids, matches, you name it. Probably planning to set fire to whatever fancies him."
Evil squinted darkly, the remark hadn't irked him so much as dug up a foul memory. He couldn't forget, even if he wanted to…He growled openly, lowering his vision to the ground to glance at the back of the bear's head.
"So, what was that back there?" He asked.
"Don't worry about it…" Fighter replied apathetically, his vague tone made Evil roll his eyes.
"I'm not complaining, but you're the one that wanted to plan ahead so…pull your weight, ass."
"Patience is key." He stated without looking at him, patting his fanny pack.
"We'll find an opening just wait…That's always the hardest part."
Evil squinted dubiously. "Uh huh." He glanced back at the Lion conversing with the witness.
"Do you have anyone else to affirm your claim?" Leonard asked.
The Kangaroo nodded. "Yes,' He pointed toward the rails, another Kangaroo waved briefly back at him. 'He was with me at the time. We both saw the pyromaniac before everything went tits up."
Leonard rose his brow incredulity with a dry expression.
The marsupial coughed abruptly. "Sorry for that."
"It's fine. Anything else?"
The Kangaroo paused scratching his head. "Other than that, no…" He stated calmly his heel tapping absently on the ground.
"Do you regret that day?" Fighter asked in a low tone.
Evil stayed silent, weighing his options as his brow narrowed. "Be specific…"
"At the Pavilion…" He reiterated.
Evil's eyes lit up before he narrowed them cautiously. "It's none of your business." He replied discouraged.
Fighter exhaled calmly, adopting silence for a moment. He absently tapped his feet. "Did anyone see you?"
"Of course." Evil narrowed his eyes and gave an annoyed scowl.
"Together?" He asked firmly, turning his head curtly with a cryptic look.
"I don't think we…"
"Would you like add anything?" The Owl announced loudly as he stared at both bears.
Evil glanced down at Fighter before rolling his eyes. "No…" he stated monotonously.
The Owl nodded then shifted his gaze to the other bear. "When you're ready."
Fighter stood up and walked over to the group stopping at the base of the tree. He glanced at the Kangaroo briefly and silently nodded to himself. The interaction caused Leonard to raise his brow.
"Oh, and both of you,' Each of them glanced at the Owl. 'Please, do not provoke one another..." He warned with an owlish expression.
Fighter rose his paw apologetically. "Water under the bridge."
Leonard nodded as well, his gaze resting on the bear's countenance.
The Owl's eyes narrowed sharply. "As a change of pace, why don't we cross-examine the witness separately?" He turned to Leonard. "You've already gone first, so it's only fair to allow him to proceed without interruption."
Leonard paused intently with a fixed brow. "I have no qualms with that notion." He stated with an air of confidence as Fighter walked ahead stopping only a few feet from the Kangaroo.
"When did you last see, Evil?" Fighter asked peering up at the marsupial.
"Around noon, two-ish maybe." He replied flatly.
"Have you told anyone else about what you've seen?"
"I'm doing that now aren't I?"
Fighter's brow rose at the comment. His eyes dimmed dully as he wore a comforting smile. "Take it easy, bud.' He rose a paw apologetically. 'We're all a bit tense right now." He purposefully yawned aloud keeping an eye on him.
The marsupial returned to a calmer expression and spoke. "I couldn't. By the time I tried to follow him everything was up in smoke." His foot rapped against the ground.
Everything went by so fast: Birds were flying frantically overhead, Smoke was in the air and I swear I saw…" He paused.
He noticed his apparent silence and blank expression aimed at him. He gave an abrupt cough. "I h-had to go back and find my wife." He urged.
Fighter absently nodded to himself at the information. "Alright, you were in a bit of a panic. But what about before?" He asked genuinely.
The Kangaroo crossed his arms and narrowed his eyes darkly. "I don't scare easy."
"Hey.' He rose his paws apologetically, he felt the corner of his mouth involuntarily twitch as he resisted the urge to smile. "It's only natural, relax," Fighter added smoothly.
The Kangaroo nodded taking a deep breath. "Are we done?" He asked impatiently.
Fighter shook his head begrudgingly. "Look, I'm just trying to paint a clear picture of what happened."
"We already know what happened. Everything already here. Clear as day." He remarked.
Fighter silently stared up at the marsupial, its eyes narrowed at his gaze. "The absence of evidence is not the evidence of absence…" A keen smirk came from the animal.
"What?" The Kangaroo stated baffled squinted dubiously.
Leonard looked at the Owl with a concerned expression raising his brow. He silently gestured to the bear with the backside of his paw shifting it abruptly from Fighter to the Owl questionably.
The Owl shrugged in response and continued to listen prompting the Lion to narrow his eyes in annoyance.
"Needless to say, something doesn't feel right. Something is missing." Fighter reiterated as he glanced at the crowd.
"Uh huh."
"Why don't we bring your buddy down here to clarify?" He pointed his thumb to the crowd.
The Kangaroo's shoulders flattened. "You don't trust me."
"No, no. I just need a second opinion."
"You're gonna get the same thing, why bother?" He urged.
"You sure about that?" He stated calmly with an inquisitive glance.
"Yea…I'm sure."
Fighter strolled toward the Kangaroo's leg and lazily laid against it. The marsupial glanced down annoyed at the unwanted contact. "Hollow words, don't hold water…" His tone was a low as a whisper. He glanced up and gave an uneven smile.
"Are you calling me a liar?" He asked aloud.
"Fie!" iv) He waved his paws carelessly. "Clearly, you must be the most trustworthy source of information around here." He remarked cheekily, looking away absently at his claws.
"That's enough, let's have Leonard speak to the witness." The Owl stated firmly.
Fighter pushed himself off the marsupial's leg. "By all means." He stretched his arms out and started to walk past the feline toward the tree. Each gave a lingering glance, the bear smiled jovially. "Go get em'." He clicked his tongue brazenly.
Leonard rose his brow incredulously not breaking his stride toward the Kangaroo as he stopped in front of him. He could see the marsupial tapping its feet angrily accompanied with a contemplative scowl.
"Mr. Jackie, was it? How long have you been apart of this community?"
"A good while, a year or two." He replied.
"Right. And as a loyal, devoted member of our community. You, as well as many others, know of the bear's vindictive and spiteful misconduct."
"That bear is trouble. Always has been." He spat over his shoulder.
Leonard briefly craned his head in disgust before regaining control of the conversation. "It wouldn't be hard to believe he'd be responsible for this. And judging from your account, I'm certain he started it."
The Kangaroo nodded as he folded his arms.
"And as one of the pillars of this community…"
He heard an abrupt cough and glanced at the marsupial.
"Please don't flatter me…" The Kangaroo looked away absently with a flustered expression as he muttered.
The Lion raised his brow briefly while observing him then rose his paw as if he was presenting him to the audience. "And would look at that…Humility."
The Kangaroo's foot began to tap faster in response. He briefly turned his head toward the crowd. The other marsupial gave him obscure gesture waving him off. He sighed inwardly looking down he looked down at the ground with a blank expression. Just out of his vision, Fighter cocked his brow inquisitively at him with a pensive stare.
"Regardless, any attempt at discrediting this animal would be a fruitless effort." He shifted his gaze briefly onto the black bear before it resided on the judge. "Mark my words," Leonard stated solemnly before slowly marching to the base of the tree.
The crowd above began to chatter amongst themselves each conversation became errant noise to Leonard as he focused on his opponent. Not a single form of decry came from him, he took a deep breath. And with narrowed eyes, he watched Fighter stroll toward the Kangaroo as the crowd slowly quieted down.
Fighter looked up at the Kangaroo's face waiting silently for a rebuttal, it didn't come to pass. He spoke again solemnly. "There's still one thing that's bothering me…You saw him, clear as day. You were even able to identify him and yet you didn't stop him."
"I had to get my wife."
Fighter narrowed his eyes darkly. "It was early morning, the fire started late afternoon. You had plenty of time." He curtly responded with a firm tone.
"I had to get my wife." He repeated.
"Look, bud. I ain't here to judge. But he was alone-All alone-And you chose to let him go?" He narrowed his eyes intently as the Kangaroo remained silent.
"I mean it's fine if you were scared by the daunting task of stopping a-not-even-fully-adult-bear." He remarked with a distasteful frown.
"I told you, I had no time." He hunched forward peering down at the bear.
"You sure have enough time to avoid my questions." He snapped backed boldly.
The Kangaroo blankly stared down at him. He wanted to retort, but the black bear cut him off abruptly.
"Boy, I'm glad I'm not you right now. I wouldn't know what to do with myself if I let the most despised, deplorable-" He glanced back at the animal in question. "No offence."
Evil begrudgingly narrowed his brow. "None taken."
Fighter turned his attention back to the Kangaroo. "Oh, almost forgot. How is the Ms.? I never got to thank her for helping us out. Forgive me, I was elsewhere my head was aching. Lack of sleep I guess…" He waggled his brow knowingly at him.
He wasn't having it. "Don't."
Fighter tilted his head quizzically in a spurious manner. "Sorrrry? And here I thought I was being courteous." He remarked in a mock apologetic tone.
"Mr. Fighter, was it?" The Owl announced loudly, the bear glanced up at the bird. "I'd like to intrude for a moment."
He looked back to the Kangaroo briefly before shrugging. "Sure."
"If I were to be so bold: Why didn't you go after him?" He asked the marsupial.
The Kangaroo's gaze shifted from the Owl to the crowd.
"I mean, a simple yes or no and an explanation would have sufficed but you've been avoiding questions. Deliberately." He stated firmly.
"Your honour, he's clearly nervous," Leonard suggested.
"True. But-"
"I-I didn't expect anything at the time." He quickly replied.
"Fair enough, why don't you want your friend to speak for you?" The Owl asked.
"He's as nervous as I am…He'd get something wrong." He remarked sternly.
"You know what I think?" Fighter asked aloud.
"I think you're lying through your teeth."
"Your honour, he's badgering the witness," Leonard stated solemnly, the Owl remained silent seemingly ignorant of the comment.
"Be quiet." The Kangaroo leered down at the bear.
"Slowly but surely you're realizing this isn't working." He reiterated.
The Kangaroo clenched his paws. "Shut. Up."
"I mean all that guilt would keep me up at night."
"Do you ever stop talking?"
"That depends, do you plan on giving me a straight answer?" He snapped backed again.
He snarled hopping angrily in place.
"I bet your itching to hit me again." Fighter stated with a dry smile, he leaned toward the animal flashing cheek provocatively.
His eyes narrowed sharply as he realized the bear's intent. He needed to cool down before-
"Man, If you're this bent out of shape it must have been a torture to watch Evil walk away."
"They wouldn't!…" He paused with a bemused expression his mouth agape.
Mistakes were made…
His outburst was loud enough to draw attention to himself. He caught the bitter glare of the Lion aimed directed at him. The expression slowly started to bore a hole into him.
He avoided it like the plague, quickly glancing away only to encounter a devilishly amused grin adorned on Evil's face. A bead of sweat dropped down the Kangaroo's forehead.
"They? Not we?" A low voice below him asked.
"Hold up, I didn't…" Again, he hastily shifted his gaze only to be met by the other bear's intent gaze as Fighter tilted his head coyly.
"Squawk! They wouldn't! They…"
Fighter rose his paw up to silence the parrot. "We get it." He stated with an annoyed tone looking up at the tree.
"Explain." He ordered coldly, pointing his finger accusingly.
The marsupial absently stared around avoiding his gaze, he sighed reluctantly.
"There were four of us. My buddies and I were heading out for a couple of rounds of Poker. On the way, we spot him dragging his heels toward the maintenance area..." He glanced up at the crowd, the familiar face he was searching for seemingly absent. "I…I wanted to go after the little bugger but my friends convinced me it wasn't worth my time." He scowled openly.
Fighter's eyes stayed sternly focused on his countenance, his expression softened slightly as he recognized his tone: genuine guilt. He narrowed his eyes. "That's..."
"Unacceptable." A firm voice announced.
Fighter felt his heart nearly jump out of his chest, he hadn't even heard the feline's steps made toward him.
Leonard still wore a bitter glare as he spoke to the Kangaroo. "Don't loaf your lack of responsibility onto a group. You have your own autonomy. And you choose to not intervene."
"I couldn't…"
"As reasonable as that is…How do you expect anyone to make that call?" Fighter interjected.
"Take the initiative and make a choice."
"It's never that easy."
"Most important decisions aren't."
"May I interject?" The Owl asked.
The animals nodded at the avian as he narrowed his eyes. "It pains me to say, but...We can't consider his testimony."
Leonard glanced up at the Owl with a concerned expression. "Even so," he paused.
"He has lied directly to us. How can we ensure all he says isn't falsehood? Is this the precedent you wish to set?"
The black bear observed the feline's face, he seemed troubled. His vision fixed to the ground.
"No. You're right…Fair judgment is what we aspire for and despite his desire to right what he felt was wrong…" He glanced at the marsupial intently. "It amounted to nothing…"
Fighter looked away, his tone stung and felt dour to his ear. "That's…That's a shame…"
Leonard stared blankly at him and nodded absently to himself. "Yes. It is…"
He took a deep breath. "And it will not happen again."
He returned to a neutral expression and rose his head to the Owl laying on the branch. "May we break? I need time to acquire a more productive source of testimony."
The avian gave a simple affirming nod. "Please be aware of the time we have left before it rains."
"I'm aware. It won't be an issue."
Leonard nodded then craned his necked toward the Kangaroo, it averted its gaze. He sighed in response. "Come along..." His tone was mirthless as he started to walk away.
Fighter watched him intently as he headed toward the wall. He rolled his left arm briefly before slowly heading toward Evil, an odd whistle from above caught his attention. He glanced at the Owl bemused. The Nocturnal Sage gave a knowing look, accompanied by a wistful smile.
"Tread lightly, young one." He remarked closing his eyes.
Fighter narrowed his eyes cautiously before continuing his route to the albino captive.
Evil greeted him with a devilish smirk and a whistle. "That was pretty insidious back there."
"Eh. I'm your lawyer." He remarked staring behind him intently.
"Fair enough. A shame he couldn't squirm little more. That was entertaining."
He noticed his apparent silence and scoffed.
"What?" Evil asked impatiently.
"Something tells me I may have kicked the hornet's nest." He stated while looking over his shoulder.
"Eh, he's overreacting. What's sour puss going to do?"
From a distance, Fighter could see the Lion hastily closing the gap with a stride toward the Gorilla. He watched him openly raise his paw pointing above the wall seemingly spouting orders. A vague series of occasional nods from the Gorilla hinted at a conversation between them as the feline finally approached the wall with the Kangaroo in tow.
"I don't know and that's what worries me…" The twinge in his gut returned.
i) Damn
ii) A male pig castrated before maturity.
iii) Shit, or another vulgar word. This one's versatile.
iv) An exclamation, usually to express disgust or outrage.