Had some issues with formatting. It should be fixed now.
Chapter Eight: History Repeats
Abandoned Church – The deepest recesses of the Nocturnal District
Deep within the Nocturnal District, further than most dared tread anymore, was the burnt out, hollow shell of a church. Built of brimstone, the structure had survived the blaze that had claimed it, and those who had been inside, so long ago. If any still wandered the streets of that area, one would have been shocked to see the glow of candles emanating from with it.
The mammal inside, heavily clad from head to toe in black, stood before a cracked mirror, one of only two decorations that adorned the walls, the other being an aged letter tacked next to it. Letting the cloth fall to the ground around his feet, the mammal once again took in the sight of his grotesque appearance. Even he cringed at the sight of his reflection.
Staring at the cracked mirror, the mammal raised a paw and ran it down the cool surface of the glass. 'A flawless expository representation of who and what I am in mind, body, and soul.' he thought to himself. Focusing once more on his reflection, the mammal let his eyes roam over his form. The damage it had endured was far greater than one would imagine possible for any mammal.
His body, burnt from the flames that licked it years ago, was furless and completely covered in scars. One could easily mistake him for a mutilated corpse. Running his paws over himself, the mammal could feel the unseen damage; the countless broken bones that had never properly mended, the torn muscles, ligaments, and tendons for which he was never given treatment. Yet, his eyes remained on his reflection the whole time he did this.
The mammal had no recollection of to which species he belonged. It was impossible for him to determine based on what he saw in the mirror. His fangs and claws told him he was a predator. His size informed him that he was somewhere between small and midsized. Other than that, there was no indication of what he once was.
What he was now though, was a different matter entirely. He had no problem calling himself a monster. If asked why, he would say it was because the creature which stared back at him as he looked in the mirror could only be described as such.
Shifting his gaze to the aged letter that was tacked to the wall next to his mirror. A strange set of circumstances had left it in his possession. Its author, like he himself, had sought refuge within the sanctuary of this old church. He doubted she had even known of his presence as she wrote it. Although, he often wondered if she had known, as while writing the letter she had spoken the words aloud.
The letter, written in beautiful calligraphy, read:
"I know not of whom nor what you are, but it is to you I shall impart these final words of mine.
As I sit here awaiting Death's arrival, I realize that my passing shall go unnoticed by the world.
What follows is my tale, and I pray you learn from my mistakes.
I was never the most confident of mammals. I was woefully insecure.
My mate, a handsome tod, could have had any vixen in the world, but it was I he chose.
This is where my insecurities, doubts, and fears were born.
Our life was pleasant for a time, but much like a self-fulfilling prophecy, I brought it to ruin.
Accusing my mate of numerous infidelities, I tore our family apart at the already stressed seams.
His departure stripped me of my mammality, and I descended into a life of drink, drugs, and debauchery.
When my son caught me, I was once again torn, but this time by the betrayal in his young eyes.
To atone, I did my best to provide him with the means to achieve his dreams, but it was for naught.
Soon, he too departed leaving me alone. His return I greeted with words I can no longer take back.
My existence became a cursed one. My mind a prison of my own design, and inescapable.
Try as I might, it proved impossible to break free of the shackles in which I had bound myself.
Now, I waste away, waiting for Death to claim my soul for his trophy in this empty chapel.
The lesson I wish for you to learn from this is simple: do not let your fears, insecurities, and doubts usurp control over you.
Your story is unknown to me, but however it goes, I hope that you fulfill whatever it is you desire.
Know that my last request is for you to find whatever it is you seek.
It is time for me to depart. Death has come for me at last.
Should you at any time come across my mate and son, please let them know my final thoughts were of them.
Tell them how sorry I am, how that I never meant for it to be this way.
Farewell, whomever reads this, and know I thank you from the bottom of my heart.
-Katharine Wilde"
The rickety-clickety-clacks of the newest invention, the motorized auto-vehicle, echoed through the nigh-empty streets of the city. A thick, heavy fog saturated the air, greatly limiting one's ability to see. What few mammals remained out and about were either rushing home after a long day of work or the mammals of the constabulary on patrol. Although it was not yet night, the street lamps were being lit to illuminate the cobblestone streets. However, with the fog, it did little to help.
Declan Wolford turned up the collar of his trench coat and lowered the wide brim of his hat to further shelter himself from the chilly air. He paused as a motorized carriage passed in front of him. Just ahead, he could see the silhouette of his destination: another motorized carriage, surrounded by constables. The closer he got, the more he could make out through the fog. Much to his ire, two constables were refusing to let a young tiger through.
Walking up behind the slightly younger male, Declan put a paw on the tiger's shoulders and asked the constables, "Is there a good reason you're refusing to let my assistant through, gentlemales?" Declan saw them shift uncomfortably. "I didn't think so. Now, do yourselves a favor and get out of our way." When they hauled ass, the wolf turned to the tiger. "Did you even give them the note I gave you?"
Nodding, the tiger replied, "They thought it was a forgery. Said they'd lock me up if I didn't leave." Shrugging, he added, "Wouldn't have mattered anyway. I figured you'd be here soon."
Sighing, Declan stated, "Let's see what we're dealing with. Did you bring your camera like I told you?" Seeing the young tiger hoist the moderately sized contraption to display it, the wolf nodded in approval. "Let's make history, eh?"
The two approached the motorized carriage's cargo trunk, which contained the reason for their presence. Peering inside, Declan grimaced. Within the trunk was the body of a young giant golden crowned flying fox, a type of mega-bat. The tiger lifted his camera and started taking photographs.
"Make sure you get photos of the surrounding area as well, Nathan." Declan told the tiger, who mumbled an affirmative reply in response. The wolf stared at not the first, nor second, third or fourth victim, but the fifth. The eyes of the bat were still open, so he carefully closed its eyelids.
As the wolf stood there in thought, it took him a while to notice that the screams had died. Turning to look at Judy, he saw the reason why: Nick had cupped her cheeks and pressed their foreheads togethers while whispering comforting words he couldn't hear from where he stood. Wolford saw that Nick's tail had wrapped itself around her waist, as if to protect her from the world around them. He was about to call out to them when his phone started ringing. Checking to see who it was, Wolford sighed at seeing it was Chief Bogo.
"Hey, Chief." Wolford answered. He listened to Bogo's questions before saying, "No, but we got another body. Hopps is the one who found it." Looking back at the doe and tod a couple of meters away, he said, "I think you'll want to have her see the precinct's psychotherapist. She didn't handle the discovery all that well."
Back at Precinct One, Chief Bogo sighed heavily. "I doubt she'll agree to that. She's more hard-headed and stubborn than I am. Send them back here." Hanging up his desk phone, the buffalo let his head hit his desk with a loud 'THWACK'. He didn't groan, he didn't grunt, he didn't release a single sound of pain. All he wanted to do was get a godsdamn drink. 'What a fucking time to go cold turkey.'
Hearing that the Chief wanted them back at the precinct, Nick gently picked Judy up in his arms and carried her to their cruiser. The drive to the precinct was silent as Judy seemed utterly lifeless. Nick hated, no, loathed it. He couldn't think of anything to say that seemed appropriate. The beast within him wanted to bring her to their den, or anywhere they could be alone.
Judy just stared out into space. The lyrics to a song she once heard so long ago now seemed all too true. 'There's a world outside your window, and it's a world of dread and fear.' Judy's mind was now her own worse enemy, creating countless scenarios where the victims wasn't just some random citizen, but the mammal that meant the most to her in the world. Almost mechanically, Judy lolled her head to gaze at Nick.
Once they arrived at the precinct, Nick and Judy were required for debrief. They were then ordered to visit the psychotherapist regularly until she gave them the greenlight. Judy was about to argue, but all it took to get her compliance was a request from Nick, who promised to be there during her sessions.
The evidence board got another picture attached to it. The room was totally silent as the Chief looked at his mammals. "Another victim. That makes five in total so far. Thanks to the forward and progressive thinking of Detective Declan Wolford and his civilian assistant, Nathan Fangmeyer, we now have photographic documentation of both the victims and the crime scenes."
A round of soft applause swept the room briefly as the bison nodded his approval at the aforementioned mammals. The wolf and tiger paid it no mind, rather preferring that the bison just get on with it, which he did after the applause ended. The bison started passing out sheets of paper, containing what info they had gathered on their newest victim, and it wasn't much.
"So, as you can see, we have very little on our newest victim." the bison stated upon returning to his spot behind his podium. "Detective Declan Wolford has a few things he wishes to say, but before that, I want all of you to make sure you've got a photograph with you so that you can start asking around. Any questions? No? Okay. Declan, your turn."
Declan stepped around the Chief's podium and scanned the room. Before him were the mammals that he had worked many cases with over his few years on the job. Clearing his throat, Declan stated, "I'm well aware that we're averse to using the term, but I for one think we've got a serial killer on our paws." A collection of murmurs could be heard at his words. "We've got five bodies in our morgue, all with the same level of sadistic precision, same type of wounds, and same taunt left behind, challenging us. Yes, all the victims are of different species, genders, ages, and whatnot, but I've spoken with a few…unorthodox sources, and they confirm that the same mammal committed each murder."
Nathan Fangmeyer stood up and approached the evidence board. "As you can see, each victim was kept alive for an extended period of time while their assailant brutally tortured them. The three females were violated in the cruelest of ways. The coroner found upon autopsy that our killer removed their wombs after death."
From the back of the room a voice asked, "Why? For what reason does he do this?" A few other voices echoed the question, prompting Declan to answer.
"We believe that it has to do with the rumors of the newly discovered DNA." Declan saw that he had regained their attention. "According to what I've heard, it's something that's unique to each and every one of us. No two mammals, even identical twins, have the same DNA. The killer is probably attempting to make certain we don't get his for study."
"Another thing we have noticed is how he kills his victims." Nathan stated. "He appears to be highly educated in anatomy. This is evident by the surgical precision and accuracy of his victim's wounds. Interestingly, it would appear that our killer is a predator, seeing as the coroner says the incisions were made using claws. However, it should be known that a prey mammal could do this damage if their claws have been artificially sharpened. To prove this, we had a volunteer come in and get their claws sharpened then swipe at another willing participant. So, please give a round of applause to Chief Bison-Butt." A chorus of laughter erupted from the constables.
"Enough!" the buffalo commanded. Pointing to the tiger, he said, "Careful, kit. I can just as easily revoke your civilian assistant status."
Nodding, Nathan continued. "The Chief's wounds bore a striking similarity to those of a predator mammal. As we still don't know who or what the killer is, remain vigilant and cautious." Walking around, he proceeded to pass out copies of the victims. "These are photographs of our victims. Use them when questioning the mammals on your patrols. If you learn anything, report it immediately. With nothing else to add, you're all dismissed."
Once the last mammal had left the bullpen, Bogo walked back to his office. Roughly a week had gone by since the discovery of Timothy Batsarab and no new leads had surfaced as of yet. To make matters worse, neither Hopps nor Wilde were cleared for field duty. The buffalo was really starting to wish he hadn't quit drinking. Upon entering his office, he found himself greeted to the sight of the precinct's psychotherapist. The female sand cat had one hell of a poker expression, but the look of concern in her eyes couldn't hide from him.
"Give it to me straight, Doc. What's the prognosis?" The Chief watched as the sand cat sighed. "That bad, huh? What do you suggest we do? I, we, need them out there."
"Honestly, Chief? I don't know where to begin exactly." The sand cat confessed. "Officer Hopps refuses to take any advice from any mammal other than Officer Wilde. He's the only mammal she'll listen to, who's words she'll consider. Our sessions normally consist of me sitting on my duff, listening to the two of them talk things out. On the other paw, it's vice versa. The only one Officer Wilde will listen to is Officer Hopps. He flat out ignores anything I say but will use what I suggest when it comes to Officer Hopps regularly. I've never seen such a dynamic in any pair of partners, ever."
Placing the file that she had with her on his desk, the sand cat kept going. "I have a strong suspicion that Hopps is suffering from a form of PTSD. She shows all the typical signs and symptoms of it. One of the common topics they tend to discuss is the nightmares she's having. Over the last week, it would appear these are becoming less frequent, but I can't say for sure since neither of them will actually talk to me. Also, I have a few concerns regarding Officer Wilde's mental health. He seems to have an unhealthy attachment to Officer Hopps."
"Before you go any further," Bogo interrupted. "Let me make this as clear as possible to you. Whatever relationship those two may or may not have is absolutely none of your concern. Your sole job as the psychotherapist of this precinct is to ensure that my officers are mentally capable of performing their duty. Unless you are telling me that whatever relationship the two of them have is a threat to their performance, shove it. Am I understood?"
Gulping, the sand cat nodded. It seemed that the Chief knew about it already and had no issue with it. Plus, the buffalo was correct about her job as the precinct's psychotherapist. Still, it just didn't seem right for a predator and a prey to be so close or dependent on one another. 'Then again, it isn't that different from other interspecies relationships. It just happens to cross that one final boundary most wouldn't transverse.' She decided to keep her maw shut unless their dynamic made a drastic negative shift.
"Good." Taking his seat behind his desk, he opened the folder the sand cat had deposited upon it. "What's this?" Reading it over, his eyes widened. "Oh, you can't be serious about this, Doc."
"I'm extremely serious, Chief." the sand cat replied. "It needs to be done, and it needs to be done soon. As of now, the only thing I can think of that could help Officer Hopps is force her to confront this head-on."
The Chief reread the file's contents. He wasn't normally one to feel torn, but this did it. 'Wilde is not going to like this, at all.'
As the clock tower began to ring, the remaining mammals on the streets rushed home. With the newly implemented curfew in full effect, and a murderer on the loose, no one except the constables on patrol were allowed to wander the streets after nightfall.
Again, the rickety-clickety-clacks of motorized carriages and hansoms filled the air. Another veil of fog had also blanketed the city. The city almost seemed deserted, but the dim lights from the windows proved that wasn't the case.
Declan Wolford and Nathan Fangmeyer were wandering the deserted streets of the city on patrol. The constabulary had ordered everyone to divvy up into partnered pairs to ensure their own safety. Armed with lawmammal's batons attached to their hips, the two kept their patrol at a steady pace, on the look out for anything out of the ordinary. In the days since they discovered the bat stuffed in the trunk, they had come across another dead body, this one of an elderly ursine. The carcass had all the hallmarks of their quarry. This was the topic of discussion between the wolf and tiger as they patrolled.
"He killed a bear." Nathan stated for the nth time. "Okay, so it was an elderly bear, but still. It was a bear, Declan."
"Yes, Nathan. I'm aware that the victim was a bear. I was there. Remember?" The wolf shook his head. The discovery of the corpse had raised a lot of questions. While they had said it was possible their killer was a prey, this caused them to wonder how true that statement was now. "Our murderer has to be somewhere between a mid-sized and a large-sized mammal. It's the only option that makes sense. He, or she, can't be too large to deal with the smaller victims, and they can't be too small to deal with the larger one."
Nodding in agreement, Nathan said, "Have you read the newest scientific journals yet? There have been quite a few new methods in evidence gathering. Someone found that if we preserve what evidence we find it could eventually be used for testing later when technology reaches the place it needs to be for it."
"Yeah. I read that one." Declan looked skyward at the rain clouds that threatened to give way to a torrential downpour. "Hey, Nathan? Have you ever wondered if they'll deal with something of this magnitude in the future?"
The tiger felt caught off guard at the question. After thinking about it for a moment, he answered, "Yeah. I've considered it a bit. If not here, then obviously somewhere else. I don't mean that I hope for it to happen, but there is a possibility it'll happen again in the future."
Huffing, Declan continued to make his way down the street. The night air was chilly, causing him to turn the collar of his jacket up against it. Stopping only for a few seconds to gaze through a store window, the wolf pondered how he could help those of similar circumstances as them. They already took photos, made notes, and whatnot. Suddenly, his ears perked as the sound of soft singing reached his ears, and an idea struck him. "Nathan. When we get back to the office, see if you can locate a phonograph. We're going to leave what thoughts we don't know how to write down in audio form."
Softly singing to herself, Judy kept glancing at the calendar repeatedly. The day of the concert she was attending with Nick was heavily circled. A smile spread across her lips at the thought of it. The concert was only a few more days away. Still singing softly, Judy grabbed the fox plushie Nick had given her the day after confiding in him about her nightmares and began dancing with it. She was even more sure now of the feelings she had for the red fox tod. He was always there for her, even now, via the fox plushie that looked exactly like him.
Falling atop her bed, Judy giggled as she squeezed the plushie to herself. Thanks mostly in part to Nicky the Plushie, Judy hadn't suffered from any of her nightmares recently. Her phone started ringing, and recognizing the ringtone, knew it was Nick. "Hey, Slick. What're you calling me for at this hour?" Glancing at the clock briefly, Judy saw it was only two hours since they clocked off their shift.
"Can't I just call to check on you and see how you're doing, Fluff?" Nick replied.
It was obvious that he was somewhere he felt comfortable, since he was calling MuzzleTiming her. This made Judy wonder if it was his apartment. She had never She had never been allowed to visit, not for her lack of trying. Nick was very adamant that he didn't want her over at his place. Knowing how strongly he felt about not letting her visit his place hurt Judy a bit but figured there was a reason behind it. "Of course, you can. I'm just asking since we literally saw each other two hours ago."
"Well, you can't blame me for worrying, can you? I mean, you did nearly have an acute psychological collapse." Nick's knowledge of psychotherapy was limited to what he learned from his own therapy sessions at the precinct. His skill in reversing the sessions had resulted in the psychotherapist mandating that he visit more often until he stopped deflecting. Since that wasn't happening, he figured he'd start learning what he could to help Judy.
"Yeah," Judy admitted, sadly. "Thanks for checking on me, Nick. I really appreciate it."
"How're you feeling?" Nick inquired. "Have you had any nightmares since I gave you the plushie?" That had bothered him a lot. He had even stayed up late fabricating that plushie for her, though she didn't know it. He had wanted Judy to always have something with her that reminded the doe he was always there whenever she needed him. The plushie did that easily, being modeled after himself.
"Nope. No nightmares since I got my paws on this little guy." Judy answered happily, angling her phone to show Nickie smashed to her chest. "He's been scaring them away." God did she sound like a little kit, but that was how it seemed to her. It was as if she had a guardian predator keeping her safe.
Smiling warmly, Nick said, "That's good. It's why I gave him to you. Glad he's doing his job." The tod wished beyond anything that he could bring her to his apartment, his home, his den, to keep her safe from the horrors of the world. He couldn't do that though. Not yet at least. It wasn't the right time for that. "So, only a few more days until the big day. Are you excited?"
"Oh, yes. I can't wait." Judy grinned at him brilliantly. She was about to say more when both their phones chimed. A quick look told her that it was from Chief Bogo. Another body had been discovered and their presence was required. She could tell that Nick wasn't pleased, but she said, "It's okay, Nick. I need to face this to get over it. Besides, you'll be there with me. I'll be fine."
Half an hour later, Nick and Judy walked into the apartment of an elderly female ursine, a polar bear to be exact. The victim showed all the necessary evidence needed for them to know that it was the work of the Apex Omnivore. What made matters a lot worse for Judy, and by extension Nick, was that the victim had biological materials seeping from her nether regions.
Bogo himself was on scene, having known the victim personally. Major Friedkin was also there, the victim being her grandmother, who was visiting from the Northern Arctic Regions. Wolford was present and meticulously taking photographs. No other officers were around, probably at Friedkin's request.
"Do you need us to call someone for you, Major?" Judy asked in a concerned voice. The polar bear ZPA instructor was one of her good friends, and Judy didn't like seeing her friends wearing the expression the Major had. She glanced at Nick, who was examining the elderly polar bear's body with a critical eye.
"No. We were the last of our family. It was just the two of us." Friedkin answered, sounding tired beyond comparison. "Ask the questions, Hopps. Remember: there are no allowances to be made if you know the victim or their family. The job comes first and foremost."
Giving the polar bear a nod, Judy asked, "When did you discover the victim's body?"
"When I came home. The door was left open, which was odd since she always locked the doors. At first it appeared she was sleeping, but the smell gave away the truth." Looking at her grandmother, Friedkin stated, "You'll find my prints on her eyelids. I closed them because they had remained open. The bastard probably got off on it."
"He sexually assaulted her after she had died." Nick stated from near the body. "Even elderly, I doubt she'd have just taken the abuse. The lack of blood indicates she was deceased at the time."
"Wilde." Bogo began to warn the fox, only to have Friedkin stop him with a look.
"It's fine, Chief. It's not like it really changes anything. Besides, it may not seem like it, but that little bit is something of a relief." Friedkin accepted a glass of water from Wolford. Thanking him, the polar bear stated, "At least she wasn't aware of the dishonor prior to her death."
After a few more minutes, everyone made their way back to the precinct. Nick and Judy returned to their shared office space, collapsing on the couch within. The tod draped his tail over Judy like a blanket, the doe hugging it tightly. Both knew there was bound to be a lot of emotions running amuck throughout the precinct once word got out. Even they were struggling to maintain their composure over it. Upon realizing that they were alone in their office, they let the tears fall and held onto each other.
Yet another photograph joined those already on the evidence board. Instead of murmurs permeating the room, it was dead silent. The expressions that were worn by those present left no doubt that they were having difficulty keeping a calm façade. Wolford stood behind the podium, looking from one mammal to the next, gauging their reactions to the newest victim.
"We'll mourn later. Right now, we need to focus on reexamining everything we currently have. I have posted a list of who will be assigned where in the lobby. Make sure you read it to see where you're to report tomorrow." Pointing to the evidence board, he added, "Also, thanks to the photographs, we have learned a bit about our past victims. Please, read over the pages we've deposited on your desks. That's all. Dismissed." As the last constable exited the room, Declan sat down with a heavy, tired sigh.
Nathan Fangmeyer's family had taken the news of their son's death as one would expect. His girlfriend had slapped him across the muzzle with claws extended, giving him another set of scars before collapsing into his arms crying. Now, alone with no one around, did the wolf allow himself whine and let the tears fall. Regardless of what others told him, he would forever feel it was his fault. To make matters so much worse, he had been the one to discover Nathan's corpse, suspended in midair by heavy-duty wire, looking for all intents and purposes like an angel trapped mid-ascension.
Declan slammed his fist into the podium repeatedly with so much power behind it that eventually the plinth gave out under the assault. Ignoring that fact, the wolf continued to smash his fist into it until the pain was too great. Heaving heavy breaths, the wolf examined his bloody knuckles. Cleaning the wounds with brandy, he took a swig. Coughing, he heard someone join him.
"Well, looks like I'll finally get that metal podium I kept requesting." the old bison stated upon seeing the remnants of wood that littered the floor. Taking a seat next to the wolf, he snagged the bottle of brandy and took a sip himself. "I've got something for you. Nathan gave it to me. In case something ever happened to him."
Staring at the cylinder the bison was offering him, Declan asked, "What is it?" He knew what it was, but the question wasn't what it sounded like. Thankfully, the Chief understood what he meant.
"It's a message he left for you. Told me that in the event of his untimely demise to give it to you. He said you'd need to hear it to move forward." Leaving the wolf alone, the bison went back to his office.
Fitting the cylinder into the player, the wolf sat back and closed his eyes as Nathan's voice emanated from it. In his mind, Declan could practically see Nathan sitting next to him.
"Hey, Declan. I, uh, I'm making this while you're out getting us something to eat. If you're hearing this, then I'm dead. I know you. You're going to beat yourself up over it regardless of what anyone tells you. So, this is me, the only one whose opinion matters on this subject: STOP IT!"
The sudden outburst startled Declan, having never heard Nathan raise his voice.
"Stop beating yourself up over it. We both knew the risks going into this. Do me a favor though, eh? Keep an eye on my girlfriend for me. She's, uh, she's carrying our child. My parents don't know yet. I haven't even asked her parents for her paw yet. It just happened, you know? I told her all about you. She even wants to name the kit Declan if it's a male. She agreed with me that you're to be the kit's godfather. So, you had better not join me in death any time soon. Otherwise, I curse you with immortality so that you're around for a long, long time to watch over my kit. You got that? Anyway, you should be returning soon, so I'll end this by saying that it's been fun. Like really fun, Declan. Gods, you have no idea how much fun it's been for me. Now, go out there and find that bastard."
The recording ended, leaving Declan staring at it. Standing, the wolf made his way to the room he and Nathan had turned into their makeshift office. Sitting down, Declan closed his eyes. Reopening them, he began reexamining everything, from start to finish. He would not let this killer get away with this.
As the sun rose and set, the city's nightlife started coming back to life. Nightshift mammals went to work, some went to nightclubs or parties, and those who protected them were out on patrol. The residual smell of bakeries baking bread filled the air. A couple of late night cafés were brewing coffee for those mammals who were just now going into work.
Nick was one of the latter. Thankfully, the barista was a former police officer, so upon seeing Nick, he started preparing the tod's usual, adding an extra shot of espresso. Giving the barista a grateful smile, Nick asked, "Can I get one for Officer Hopps as well, please? She'll need it more than I do." Within minutes, he was carrying out two cups of coffee. One for himself, the other for Judy. A sense of pride knowing he was providing for his bunny doe filled Nick. He had to stamp the feeling down though. 'Only one more day. Only one more day until the concert. Tomorrow is the day. Gods, I hope I don't royally screw this up.'
Hearing the driver's door of their cruiser open, Judy cracked a bloodshot eye to see Nick climb in with a paw outstretched to her, a cup of coffee in its grasp. Giving him a tired smile, she whispered, "Just put it in the cup holder for now, please. I need to rest my eyes a bit."
"Carrots, if you aren't up for it, let me take you home." Nick pleaded. "I can do desk duty for a day. Plus, the Chief even told us that if we need it, the two of us can take some extra time off."
"We can't do that, Nick. Not with that…that…monster out there killing innocent mammals." Judy argued, pitifully. "It's our job to protect them. I just need a few minutes."
"No, Judy." Nick stated, angrily. "I've had enough of this. I'm radioing the Chief and telling him we're taking the day off. You're practically dead on your feet and you need to rest. Not take a power nap either, a real rest. We're not the only officers on this case. We've got Wolford, Higgins, Marcus, and, I can't believe I'm grateful for the shit, Hotch. They can hold the fort for a day. Besides, please explain to me what good it will do if you pass out in the middle of our shift."
Not having a viable counterargument, and knowing Nick was right, Judy conceded to letting Nick taking her home. Once he dropped her off, telling her to sleep, Judy made her way to her apartment. Having enough cognitive function to remember to doublecheck the locks on her door, Judy hobbled to her bedroom and collapsed on the mattress of her bed. The instant her head hit the pillow, she fell asleep, dreaming of tomorrow.
Meanwhile, Nick returned the cruiser to the precinct's motor pool. Giving the key to the clerk, Nick's ear flicked as the sound of Bernhard Hotch talking to someone reached it. Silently, the tod went to see what was happening. What he saw had him quirk an eyebrow.
"Look, all I'm saying is that it's weird that a predator and a prey are so close." Bernhard told Marcus. "I mean, yeah, you and I are good friends, but Hopps and Wilde? It's almost like they're dating. Can you imagine? That's just sickening."
"Why? Because, you can't understand it?" Marcus retorted. "Wilde is a good tod. Managed to make it through the ZPA at the top of his class. Without any underpawed tactics, mind you. Hopps specifically requested him to be her partner even before he was accepted to attend."
Huffing in annoyance, Hotch stated, "It's just sick though. Can't you see that? A predator and a prey as anything other than friends? It's unnatural."
"Again, is this because you can't understand it? Or, is this due to the fact every time you've tried to get in Hopps' pants you fail due to Wilde?" Marcus watched the buck twitch at that one. "Of course, it's that. Christ, Bernhard. Don't you have any respect for her at all."
"Hey!" Bernhard shot back. "I respect what she's accomplished, but a doe is meant to stay home and raise kits. It's been that way since the dawn of time. She should just accept that already."
Marcus was about to say something when a resounding crack echoed throughout the room from Hotch having his head slam hard into the table. The dark brown paw that held the buck's head down could only belong to one mammal. Marcus looked at Nick and said, "Don't do it, Nick. Judy would be furious with you if you get yourself suspended. Let him go."
Nick narrowed his eyes at the buck whose head was in his grasp. It would be so easy for him to crush Bernhard's skull with a single squeeze. Marcus was right though. Judy would be furious with him if he got himself suspended, or even arrested. Slamming the buck's head into the table a second time to knock him unconscious, Nick told the husky, "I doubt he'll remember what just happened. Next time though, I won't leave it at that. You better keep him as far away from my partner as you can. Do you hear me?" Without even waiting for Marcus's response, Nick marched towards Bogo's office.
The buffalo had witnessed the altercation through the security cameras. After the inclusion of Hotch into their ranks, and his constant attempts of 'getting in Hopps' pants' as Marcus to eloquently put it, Bogo had kept an eye on the hare. Honestly, he was surprised Wilde hadn't skinned Hotch alive yet. When the tod knocked on his office door, Bogo stated, "Enter."
"Chief, Judy and I are taking the day off. She needs rest, and so do I. I know we have the next two days off, but she's…" Nick stopped when Bogo cut him off with a 'stop' gesture.
"I don't care." Both the buffalo and the tod knew that was a complete lie. "I already informed you if the two of you needed to take the day off, you had my permission. Sign out, clock out, get out of my precinct until the two of you are ready to get back to it. Now, get out of my office. Oh, and tell Officer Hotch I want to see him immediately on your way out as well."
Marcus watched as Nick told Hotch Bogo wanted to see him then walk out. When Hotch made his way to the Chief's office, Marcus was joined by Wolford and Thomas, who was looking progressively worse since that night at the bar. The husky guessed Thomas's health was beginning to deteriorate from all the alcohol, cigars, and whatever else he was into in his off time.
"Nick's going to end up killing him." Thomas stated, coughing. "I haven't seen Nick that pissed since the night we all went to the bar, and the sparring match with the Chief before that." Snagging one of Marcus's fries, he added, "By the way, I'm going to be checking myself into the hospital soon. I've already spoke to the Chief about partnering you with Hotch. So, you'll be the only thing standing between him and Nick."
Following a long groan, Marcus sighed. Pushing the rest of his food towards Thomas, Marcus asked, "What if I decide to help Wilde kill him?" The only response he got was a shrug.
While that conversation was taking place, in the Chief's office, another more one-sided conversation was happening between the large buffalo and his newest hare officer. Bogo didn't shout, didn't even raise his voice even the slightest bit, and that made it even more frightening to Officer Bernhard Hotch. The hare was trying to understand where the massive headache he now had came from, but hit primary focus was on his boss, who looked more terrifying than he had ever seen him. In all his time working for the Chief, Hotch had never once been reprimanded for anything. So, when the buffalo informed him that he was to be suspended until he could get his head out of his ass and stop being a 'godsdamn prick set on ruining one of the most promising careers he's ever seen', Hotch was livid.
"You can't suspend me! I haven't done anything wrong! Officer Hopps is a doe, and everyone Leporidae knows that a doe belongs at home!"
"Officer Bernhard Hotch, you test my tolerance." Bogo warned. "The only reason I haven't fired your sorry ass is because I need more small-sized officers, and there aren't many that make it through the ZPA. So, I'm going to give you two options. Choose wisely. Option One: stay the hell away from Officers Hopps and Wilde. He's already given you his warning. This is mine. Option Two: Go home until you can come in and give me a good enough reason to remove your suspension. If I'm not impressed, you'll stay suspended until you do."
Bernhard knew there was no way of avoiding either Hopps or Wilde. Therefore, there was only one real option for him. "Option Two." he begrudgingly stated.
"Good choice. Now, badge, cuffs, and tranquilizer gun on my desk. Then, you can go." Bogo watched as Hotch placed the requested items on his desk and leave. 'This isn't over. Not by a long shot.'
The sun was beginning to make its appearance over the horizon. The rickety-clickety-clacks of the motorized vehicles were once more echoing throughout the streets. Mammals woke and began getting ready to go about their day. Yet, secluded in an office at one of the constabulary houses, a wolf whose fur was now gray with age instead of his original black continued to sleep.
Years had passed since the death of Nathan Fangmeyer, and the killings had stopped rather suddenly a couple months later. Declan Wolford hadn't given up on trying to find the fucker that had stolen one of his closest friends though. Now, the wolf was old, gray, and on the verge of forced mandatory retirement. He had worked tirelessly for days which turned into weeks then to months searching for clues that would end it once and for all. To no avail.
The other mammals of the constabulary house had given up on finding the wolf another partner. They knew of the infamous loyalty wolves had towards those who they befriended. Although, all they wanted to do was help him, it was clear he wouldn't have anything to do with it. The sole mammal that he would even talk to was Declan Fangmeyer, who had recently joined their ranks as a fully endorsed constable, and they all called 'Dex'.
The tiger was the only mammal allowed to sit across from the old wolf, in the same spot his father Nathan had so often sat. The young tiger had fought fang and claw with his mother to get where he was, all so he could watch out for the wolf that had watched over him. However, as he gazed at his namesake, it was clear he wouldn't have to for much longer. The old wolf was near the end of his natural lifespan. Declan Fangmeyer wondered what would happen to the wolf's pups, who only had their father as their sole parent.
Waking, Declan Wolford raised his head to see that his godcub was already seated across from him, ready to start the day. "What time is it?" he asked, looking at the clock on the wall. "10:19? Fuckin' shit. Why didn't you wake me sooner?"
"I tried." Dex stated. "Ask anybody. They'll tell you I tried to wake you. You just wouldn't wake up." Sliding the sheet of paper that he had gotten from the chief, the tiger said, "This is for you."
Reading it over, Declan groaned then sighed. "Figures." Leaning back and looking at the ceiling, Declan's mind began replaying everything from over the past few years, the good and the bad. "Well, I had a good run. Didn't manage to do the one thing I wanted, but I did a lot of good regardless." Standing, Declan Wolford began to pack up his desk.
Everyone stopped what they were doing to watch the wolf. Some of them had heard the stories, others hadn't. Those who had knew couldn't help feeling the sight they were seeing. Few of them had ever managed to hold a conversation with the wolf, but they all respected him. Once he had his box of belongings in paw, they followed Dex's example by standing and saluting him.
Walking out of the Constabulary house, Declan Wolford stood unsure of what he was supposed to do now. Dropping the box off at his residence, the wolf quickly made his way to the building that contained all the files of the serial killer they had named the Apex Omnivore. Signing in for the last time, he pulled out the box and looked inside it.
"Cody? Do you mind doing me a favor?" Declan asked the young puma behind the counter. "I want you to store this someplace that it won't be forgotten. Make a note or something to that effect. If/when someone comes around that has proven themselves of solving this, make sure they get it. Alright?"
The mammal gave the feline behind the desk the clipboard to ensure the chain of evidence. Saluting, he departed to continue his deliveries. The feline meanwhile carried the box to the office belonging to two of their top officers. Knocking, he heard the male tell him to enter. Opening the door, the cheetah set the box down on the fox's desk.
"This just arrived for you two with a note." Clawhauser stated. "I didn't read it, but that's official document paper. So, I'm guessing it's important."
"Thanks, Ben." Nick replied, opening the box. The contents had his jaw practically hit the floor. "Oh, fucking hell."
"What is it, Nick?" Judy questioned, looking inside the box herself. She had the exact same reaction as Nick did. "Oh, Sweet Cheese and Crackers!" the doe whisper-shouted.
"This is evidence from…I don't even know when. I've never seen some of these places before." Nick stated, turning to the note, which was aged and faded from time. "Who sent us this stuff?"
"Beats me." Clawhauser stated. "All I know was that it had your names on the package." After a moment, he asked, "So, are you ready for tomorrow? Today's your last day before you two go to that concert. Are you excited?"
"Huh? Oh, yeah. We're pumped." Judy answered the cheetah. However, her eyes never left the items within the box situated between her and Nick. Something about this didn't make any sense. Who had sent this? And, from where?
Nick was busy studying the photographs. None of the locations were anywhere in Zootopia, that much he was sure. 'Overseas, maybe?' he thought. 'Of course, it is possible these are from when the city was younger. Lots of development over a lot of years would include tearing a few buildings down to build new ones.'
"Hopps. Wilde." Bogo stated as he walked into their office. "You can go home for the day. Just make sure you stop by the psychotherapist first." The buffalo departed back towards his own office to deal with the paperwork for the guest heading their way from Interpol. The thing that he had an issue with was they hadn't given him a name.
Strolling into the psychotherapist's office, Nick and Judy clambered up onto the couch. The sand cat was already sitting in her oversized chair across from them. No one spoke for a couple minutes as they each waited to see who would break it first.
"So, Officer Hopps, tell me how your folks are doing." the psychotherapist requested. Thankfully, a long phone call to the doe after work hours had resulted in getting the doe to open up to her a bit more. Now, that wasn't to say the sand cat could get her to divulge everything all at once, but it was the in she needed. Hopefully, Officer Wilde would follow suit.
"They're fine. I had a long conversation with my mom last night. We chatted a while about…emotional trauma." Judy's ears lowered flat against her back. The conversation between her and her mom hadn't gone like Judy had thought it would. It turned out that it was indeed very therapeutic to confide in a family member who could empathize. Not that she didn't confide things to Nick, but he always seemed a bit more reserved, withdrawn, and emotionally distant, making Judy wonder if he even could empathize with her.
"How did that go? Did she give you any insight?" The sand cat needed something from the doe to get the tod to slip the tiniest bit to find the opening needed.
Squirming a bit, Judy answered, "Yes, she did. She, uh, told me that she could understand. Told me something no one but she and my dad knew. Their first pregnancy miscarried. They would have had seven kits if everything had gone alright. Then, we began comforting each other. You were right. It was liberating to tell someone who could empathize."
Nick's ear flicked and his eye twitched, which was the opening the psychotherapist needed. "What about you, Officer Wilde? Do you have someone who can do the same? Someone who isn't Officer Hopps?"
Staring at the sand cat, Nick gave her a faux smile. "Why would it matter if I didn't? I think I've done pretty good regardless. Wouldn't you agree?"
"No, actually. I wouldn't." the psychotherapist replied. "Everybody needs somebody who can empathize with them and with whom they can empathize. Do you have any idea of how damaging keeping all that emotional trauma bottled up inside can do to a mammal? For some mammals, it can cause Dissociative Identity Disorder or other similar conditions. It's not healthy. You seem to be receiving a lot of empathy from Officer Hopps, but are you reciprocating?"
A feeling Nick wasn't used to experiencing surfaced. It wasn't anger, fear, or remorse, but it was something very close to those. Answering honestly, Nick stated, "I wouldn't know. Never had anyone with whom I was required to empathize before she came into my life."
"What about your mother?" The sand cat suddenly felt an immensely overwhelming pressure psychosomatically crush her after voicing the question. For only an instant, it wasn't Officer Wilde she saw, but someone, no something, else entirely.
Watching as Nick got up and left, Judy felt a strong need to run after him. Glancing at the psychotherapist, the doe saw that the sand cat wasn't going to stop her. Taking off after Nick, Judy saw him walk out of the precinct's front entrance. Sprinting to catch up, the doe cried out, "NICK! WHAT FOR ME, YOU DUMB FOX!"
Stopping to wait for Judy, Nick bit back the growl that was building in his chest. That sand cat had no right to ask him such a question regardless of what her occupation was. The beast within his mind was telling him to go back and tear her apart. The sudden feeling of Judy's arms around him had both of them freeze. The beast released a whine, and Nick did the same. "Sorry, Fluff. I shouldn't have let her see she got to me."
"No, it's fine. I was just worried about you." Judy whispered. After a couple of minutes, she said, "Alright. Let's go. We have a big day tomorrow."
"Yeah." Nick replied.
They stepped away from each other for only a moment then came back together in another embrace. Telling the other they'd see them tomorrow, they parted ways going to their own homes. The fox and bunny didn't notice that there was someone watching them.
Nick chose to take the long way back to his place, so he could clear his head. Tomorrow was the day he'd try and reveal his feelings for his partner. Despite how things were going between them, he still wasn't sure of how it would all play out. He needed this to work. The psychotherapist's question about whether he reciprocated the empathy Judy gave him was bothering the tod. Nick honestly didn't know if he was or not. He knew what empathy was, but he was never taught how to empathize. If he was going to pursue a relationship with Judy, he'd have to learn. After all, relationships are symbiotic, give and take in equal measure. Their 'date' was tomorrow, so Nick started sprinting back to his place since there wasn't much time for him to learn how to empathize.
The black clad mammal wandered the streets of Zootopia in the dead of night. He could tell by the level of moisture in the air a storm was brewing and would soon begin. Silently, he made his way through the deserted streets towards his destination. There were other mammals on the streets; prostitutes, drug dealers, and all sorts of other unfriendly mammals. They didn't bother him and gave him a wide berth, as if subconsciously knowing how dangerous he was. Reaching his destination, the mammal gazed upon the remnants of where he had once suffered the indignities that transformed him into a monster.
Hearing a whistle, the mammal turned to see a vixen standing on a nearby street corner, dressed very provocatively. She was looking directly at him. Intrigued, he slowly made his way over to her. The vixen grinned once he got close enough and started to speak.
"Hey there. You look like you can use some company tonight. What do you saw we find a hotel and enjoy a night together? I'm Samantha, by the way."
"I don't have any money." the mammal stated, emotionlessly.
"That's okay, doll. I'm not really looking for cash." Samantha told him. "Now, come on. I know of a place not too far from here we can go."
Following the vixen, the mammal made notes on everything about her. Her size, body type, fur colour, everything. 'Oh, I hope I won't have to kill her.' he thought to himself.
Arriving at the small motel, Samantha got the key to room 13 and led him inside. "So, how about I get more comfortable?" she asked, taking off her clothing. Once totally nude, she laid back on the bed, legs spread wide to give him a look at her sex. "Well, your turn."
Not making any move to divest himself of his attire, the mammal said, "I highly doubt once you see my appearance you'll want to go through with this. So, I want your word that you won't tell a soul."
"Uh, okay. I promise that I won't run off screaming."
"Good. Cause then I'd have to kill you, which I don't want to do, but I will if I must." Slowly, the mammal turned away from her as he lowered his hood and removed his clothing.
Samantha's eyes widened as she watched the cloak her guest was draped in fall around his ankles. Even though he was facing away from her, she could tell that the extent of the damage that covered his body. As he turned back around to look at her, the vixen's breath caught in her throat. Tears welled up in her eyes.
Standing there before the vixen, the mammal found something in her eyes that he hadn't seen in anyone else's: tears of sadness. "This is what I am." he stated, more to himself than to her. "This is what you've chosen to take to bed with you."
Sitting up, Samantha asked, "What happened to you?" Her voice was little more than a whisper, but it was powerful enough that it did something extraordinary.
Memories.
His memories, or at least some of them, flashed through his mind.
With a sad smile, the mammal stated, "I was murdered, and I somehow managed to survive. I have no real recollection of who or what I am. I get bits and pieces every now and again, but…" Shaking his head, the mammal said, "Doesn't matter." Moving forward, he got onto the bed and crawled over the vixen. "Tell me, are you still willing to rut me?"
Samantha didn't hesitate, and her words weren't brought about by fear as she replied, "Yes."
It was something new to the both of them. Neither could explain what it was they were feeling as they united in such an intimate way. The moans and whimpers of pleasure that pervaded the motel room couldn't be contained.
Another memory surfaced for the mammal, one from prior to his transformation. It was a memory of him and a female as they surrendered to their passion. Gazing down at the vixen beneath him, the mammal wondered once again about his name. Everyone had a name, so obviously he did as well, but he didn't know it.
Panting in need, Samantha latched onto the mammal above her, clawing at his back, making him growl in pleasure. That sensation of him going in and out of her was wonderful. She couldn't help comparing him to her ex and there was no contest in her mind that this male put her former todfriend to utter shame. The mammal leaning over her wasn't just big, he was long and thick too. With some careful maneuvering, she kissed him, causing him to freeze.
Never had he imagined that he would receive a kiss again. It was heavenly and felt that he in no way deserved it. However, she wasn't letting him pull away from it. Soon, he relaxed enough to return it. It was slow, sweet, and tender, as well as full of compassion, sympathy, and empathy. He rolled them over so that she was sitting on top of him, giving her control. She bounced softly, as if afraid to hurt him any further than he already was. To assuage this fear, he gripped her hips and pulled her into each of his thrusts. Her gasps of euphoria caused a small smile to grace his mangled muzzle.
She wanted to wait until he reached his peak first, but with how sensual he was being, something she wasn't used to, Samantha climaxed first. To her delight, he didn't stop. He just continued to thrust into her as she rode it out. She fell back when he sat up, and she locked her legs around him. His paws ran down her figure slowly, as if caressing a delicate work of art, making her shiver. She sighed, moaned, panted, whimpered, and whined as her climax wasn't allowed to end due to his actions.
So many memories were coming back to him as this continued. He recreated the movements he was remembering, and it was proving to be the correct decision. He was getting close to hitting his own peak, but he wanted her right there with him when it happened. Waiting agonizingly, the moment he was just about there, he asked, "Are you close?"
"Yes! Do it!" Samantha cried desperately. She got her wish when he hilted her with a powerful thrust. The vixen climaxed at the same moment he did. The warmth that she felt pouring into her brought forth a second orgasmic release. Samantha felt him roll them onto their sides while still connected. "That…was…amazingly…wonderful." she stated between pants.
"I'd hope so. Especially after going for nearly two hours." the mammal stated upon seeing the digital clock on the nightstand beside the bed. Looking at the vixen, he asked, "Why didn't you run? There was a very good chance you could've escaped."
"I don't really know, if I'm being totally honest." Samantha answered. "Don't think this was out of pity." she added. Sighing, the vixen locked gazes with him. "I did something really stupid. I cheated on my boyfriend for a long time. Well, one day he found out about it, and about how many times, then kicked me out of my duff. I started working at this diner during the day, but I needed more income. So, I had to restart turning tricks like back when I first moved out of my parents' home."
"I was a runaway." the mammal told her, as the memories were still fresh in his mind. "I was pretty much in the same boat. One day, I was picked up by this john who said he'd pay me extra if I went with him. I, stupidly, agreed. That building I was looking at where you found me. He took me there. The things he and his friends did to me were nightmarish. I had tried to keep track of how long I was there, but after a while it all just blurred together. When I finally broke free, I discovered I lost almost two whole decades of my life trapped in that place."
Samantha examined his disfigured features. Seeing no signs of deception from what she could tell, the vixen whispered, "Oh, my god! It's you! You're the one who's responsible for that place burning down." She remembered seeing it on the news when she was a lot younger. Her parents had told her that they had always had a bad feeling about the place, and that the fire just proved it.
"Yes." the mammal replied. "It was my personal, hellish prison. After I regained my freedom, I swore revenge against all those who were responsible for what was done to me, as well as the others who suffered the same as I while there."
"The murders. You're the Apex Omnivore." It wasn't a question, but Samantha needed confirmation. She watched his already dark expression darken even more. "I'm not going to turn you in if that's what you're thinking." His expression became less dark.
"I am. However, that is only what I'm known as. As I said earlier, I don't remember my name."
"Then, you need a new one." Samantha thought about it for a moment before saying, "Job. It means persecuted, hated."
"Job." the mammal repeated, as if testing it on his tongue. "Yes, I believe that will do nicely. I still wish I could remember a bit more of my past though."
"You never know." Samantha told him. "Maybe you will in time. For now though, let's sleep."
An hour later, the newly renamed Job watched over Samantha as she slept. His thoughts were all over the place. Taking the pad of paper that was in the nightstand's drawer and a pen, he began to write.
"Another angel has fallen into my life.
This one, I shall defend with all my strength.
I know not what the future holds,
For either of us.
Those who have haunted my night terrors,
Be prepared.
Soon, I shall come to claim your souls.
This angel of mine has brought a light to my darkened world.
She cannot be allowed to roam it with me.
Come morning, I shall bid her farewell
And hope that in our next life we shall find each other again.
A good mammal I am not
Yet for her I wish I could be
However, that is not my destined fate.
There are lives I have claimed, and those I still must.
A soul such as hers cannot be sullied by my deeds.
Tormentors of my past, be ready for me.
I shall descend upon you like an inferno tempest.
You will not, cannot, escape me forever.
I am thy reckoning,
created by thy own paws
Know that nothing shall stop me
Nothing shall prevent me from smiting you.
I will strike you down with all my fury.
Your time is nigh and coming up fast.
A brighter future shall dawn with your demises
It is I who shall bring this future forth with my own two paws.
I shall drag you down into the deepest bowels of Hell with right alongside me.
Thy reckoning is coming, and it now has a name
One gifted to it by an angel.
My name is Job.
Post-Chapter Author's Note:
So, here's my attempt at interweaving two separate series of flashbacks. Honestly, I think it just barely gets a passing grade.
Technically, this would count as a 'Filler' chapter, since it only provides a look at that bit of missing time between Ch3 and Ch4.
It also gives something of a look at the original murder investigations and how History Repeats.
By the way, if you're wondering which serial killer(s) I'm using for inspiration. There are a ton. JTR = Jack the Ripper.
Eventually, the M.O.s used will begin to shift since our 'Unsub' Job is customizing how he kills each of those directly responsible for his condition.
If you want to see the inspiration for what he looks like, search Darth Sion KOTOR 2. There are others, but Job's physically more like that.
The snippet at the top from Katharine Wilde is meant to inform you that her influence will be impacting things a bit more later.
Next chapter is going to be strictly a Nick and Judy chapter with only a few references to everybody else,
The chapter after next will focus more on the investigation overseas. (We're going to in-verse version of London)
We'll be getting some insight on what the inner beast Nick's been dealing with really is, and boy do I have a treat for you (or is it a trick?).
Another thing, and this is the last bit, is the sand cat psychotherapist.
The reason she doesn't have a name is mainly due to how little she'll be appearing.
There's also the fact that she was never intended to last long anyway.
No, she won't die. Not yet. I still have one more thing for her to do, but after words bye-bye.
(Someone send me a gruesome murder idea for this please, I need to know what kind of audience I've got for that stuff.)
Anyway, until next time.