In Louis' office, Legosi was showing the deer some of his ideas regarding the lighting for the final scene, even having made a video as an example. Outspokenness was never on of Legosi's strong suits, so it was something for Louis to get used to. "You see how the light lingers for a moment, before slowly fizzling out?"
The wolf pointed at the screen, replaying the video once more. He circled his finger around the light for emphasis. "Yes, I see it. As if the life is fading from them; the light symbolizing the fact. That doesn't look half-bad", Louis answered in monotone, commending the wolf.
Not expecting even that amount of praise, Legosi's breath hitched at the compliment. The deer could've sworn he heard a content whine, but decided to ignore it. Canines. Louis felt the air from the wolf's tail land on his backside, irking him ever so slightly. He was behind me before I could even voice my objections. The previous him wouldn't even have had the gal to do that.
The deer had made his bed giving Legosi advice, now he had to lay in it. If Legosi drooled on him, Louis swore he'd kick his ass with his still healthy leg. The wolf spoke up with the same dopey look he always had, "So, you- uh, like the way I want to handle the lighting during the final act?"
Humming approvingly, Louis gave the affirmative, "Yes, I like what you did with the glow too. Tell Dom that I accept the change." The deer had to give it to the wolf: he had a knack for prose and style. Despite his rugged appearance, he was more detail-oriented than on first glance.
Combined with the full-moon backdrop, the scene ended up becoming even more ethereal than Louis ever thought imaginable. Now I need to leave before he starts marking me with his scent.
Standing up, Louis made his way over to the door, Legosi following alongside him. Despite his antlers and the wolf hunching over, he still loomed over the deer like a giant, eliciting a sudden need to run. Stupid instincts. Always in the way. Preventing himself from gulping, Louis decided to distract himself.
"How are the costumes? Is Odie's costume done?", Louis asked, averting his gaze. Opening the door, he saw everyone doing their thing, conversing with each other and rehearsing their lines. He could hear the gears in the wolf's head spin.
"Uhm, yeah, Odie's costume was finished yesterday. Actually, we managed to finish a lot of stuff yesterday", Legosi finally mused in his ever-low voice, the deer being close enough to hear the growl whenever he spoke. Almost wanting to reflexively shudder, Louis steeled himself.
Every time he was close to a carnivore, he couldn't help but be on guard, even if it was folly. Berating himself under his breath for almost showing it to the likes of Legosi, "Damn it." The wolf, having not heard that, tapped his chin pensively taking his time between answers, "Except that flower thing with the gardening club Dom asked me to do. I'll ask him if he-"
"Forget about it", the deer interrupted brashly, trying his hardest not to scowl. "That idea is, unfortunately, scrapped." Louis questioned how dense Legosi had to be to not know about it. Everyone with a little bit of spacial awareness was privy of it. The gardening club closed, because its only member fucking died. "Oh, uhm, okay? Didn't know you and Dom had already discussed it." We didn't, you moron. I made that decision on the spot.
"We all work behind the scenes, pup. All of us have to pull their weight", Louis told walking into the room. With all the improvements Legosi had made, he was still the emperor of airheads. Rumors were never really the wolf's thing, knowing how fallacious they could be. Especially, with how little animals had talked to the wolf in these past two days, it was no wonder he wasn't even vaguely aware. Not that Louis would know or care about any of that.
Feeling the hot breath of the wolf on his neck, the deer turned around with an annoyed expression. "Legosi, stop following me around. Go talk to Dom", Louis advised sternly, rubbing away the moisture it left on his fur. Any longer within Legosi's presence would set the deer off, he didn't need Lassie licking his heels. The wolf stopped in his tracks, immediately walking in the other direction, nodding his head, "Ah, yes. Indeed, alright."
Louis let out a relieved puff of air, he almost cussed Legosi out on the spot. I swear that wolf is off his rocker. Gathering his thoughts, he spied everyone from the corner; pretending to be hard at work. His scheming and reckless abandon had taken him pretty far. Blackmailing a principal, getting the play back in order and getting the lockdown plus segregation shortened have all been victories. Alas, he didn't know how long those shallows wins would last.
Ignoring those vices, he continued with the regularly scheduled programming. Checking some more boxes for the play in his head, he inspected if everything was in working order. Everyone was doing what they were supposed to be doing. Adler's preparations have been going well, better than expected even. The continuation of the play invigorating something within the club Louis has never seen before.
They had arranged all the props, costumes, choreography and lighting in record time. Knowing the production team: it wasn't a botched, rush job either. Simply unprecedented. Why couldn't everyone throw this amount of vigor and passion into it before shit hit the van? They still had nine more days to practice, and perfect the show to a divine level.
To the regular onlooker everything seemed to be going swimmingly; everyone seemed to get along just fine. Unfortunately, that couldn't be further from the truth, fear still ruled this club like a cruel king. If you looked closely, the signs were small, but they were there. Els' arm twitched every time she saw Bill's teeth, Shiira's smile was as strained as they come plus she was horribly self-conscious about her claws and Tao was even more reserved and quiet than usual.
And those were things Louis picked up on over the course of two days. All their silent suffering made Louis feel horrible for them. Adler was the only thing everyone talked about, all the other topics seemingly were off-limits. A collective, desperate effort to keep the peace, no one daring to tread on thin ice. This façade had to end. If it didn't: it would drag the club to the fiery depths of hell.
Elaborate as this masquerade ball was, someone had to rip off their masks and let them face the music. Eventually, this faux-peaceful atmosphere would stretch everyone thin, until something or even worse, someone snapped. Some would argue that the ignorance here was bliss, and that Louis should leave them in their perpetual state of ignorance.
However, there was no point to bringing the club back if they couldn't let go of the past. Playing pretend was meant for the stage, not during club hours. With determination, he walked over to the stage; his aching leg scratching at his brain for him to stop. Ignoring the general discomfort, he pressed onwards. Having planned for this anyway, now was a better time than any. Our little paradise was nice while it lasted. Sorry guys, it's time to get you out of your comfort zones.
Not knowing how long his leg would last him, he had to make this quick. If he didn't put too much strain on it - it wasn't all that bad. Annoyingly enough, people will notice if he shifts his weight on one leg more than the other, especially when being aware of the fact that Zoe had ran his mouth. Who am I kidding? That goat would've never kept his trap shut. Medication had only helped to some extent, now he had only his willpower to rely on.
Stepping foot on the small stage, he turned towards the larger group; clearing his throat loudly. Immediately gathering the attention of most of the animals within the room; curious murmurs coming from those who had. The rest followed suit and now everyone had their eyes on him, Louis knew he only had one shot at this. He started speaking, his voice heavy and clear, "Everyone, I have an important announcement to make." Whenever Louis hit the stage with something important to say, it would be synonymous with either good or bad news. Nobody really knew what to expect.
Whatever Louis was going to say; it would leave a lasting impression. "I know these tragedies that have befallen on us are still fresh on everyone's minds, and that it's hard to see any light at the end of the tunnel." A few animals nodded along, while the other's had expressions of uncertainty. He had to rip off this bandaid swiftly. "And I don't blame you in the slightest, it's scary and it is alright to be afraid. However, I have a burning question for you, carnivore or herbivore it doesn't matter: are you really going to let that killer win?"
Most of the expressions turned to shock, the room turning dead silent. "I honestly find that idea insulting. Allowing that monster to control us like puppets on strings? Shouldn't we as a club - No, as a school have our pride to maintain?", Louis spat with indignation. Whispers were floating through the room, a lot of them discussing the deer's stance. "Do you actually think that sitting here and doing nothing will solve our problems? That they'll be whisked away with the wind?"
Watching the chaos unfold before his eyes, Louis continued with more mockery, "How has waiting around served you, as of now?" Already knowing the answer, the deer snickered sardonically. More animals getting rightfully angry by the second. "Are we going to take this lying down or are we going to put up a showstopper of a performance?!" Everyone cheered, wanting to give it their all.
Louis was ready to hammer one final nail in this coffin of lies. "Also, I need to add: we're the drama club and our goal is to orchestrate and act out plays, but not while interacting with each other. Tell your fellow animals what's on your mind and get it off your chest. We're better than this." Some scratched their arms awkwardly, knowing what Louis was talking about. This tension couldn't go on any longer, it would be the end of everything they hold dear.
"I agree, Louis is right", Shiira spoke up with a determined voice. "Over these past few days, I have been afraid of scaring those who I care about." A solemn expression on her face as she talked. Louis surprised about her admittance of insecurities, coming out of left field for a lot of the animals present.
"These fangs, these claws, I-I wanted to hide them at every possible opportunity. The last thing I want is to make my club mates, better yet my friends uncomfortable." Not even being able to begin about how guilty she felt, the cheetah almost wanted to cry.
Much to Shiira's surprise, Peach, the sheep, seeing how sad she was, went in for a sudden hug. "Huh? P-Peach?", Shiira stuttered, choking back sobs. "Shh, calm down. It's alright. Just breathe." Peach consoled her, patting the cheetah's back. Not having any idea how much she needed this, Shiira melted into the hug.
Being just as surprised by this sudden show of affection, Louis continued by pointing at the two, "Do you see this? This is what we're club mates for!" Affirmative murmurs being heard throughout the room, everyone reaching a common consensus.
"Indeed", Els aptly agreed. "We need each other for support! Otherwise this club might as well be a sham." Discussions and clearer communication went rampant around the room, showing what could be achieved if everyone opened up once in a blue moon. Maybe letting things play out was the deer's best option.
After some time, people finally calmed down enough for Louis to continue. His leg almost ready to give out. Just one final thing had to be addressed. "Everyone, sorry, I need to discuss one more thing." Animals had their eyes on him once more, waiting with impatience for him to continue.
"As you may have heard, there will be a memorial service held at the gardening club this evening in dwarf rabbit Haru's honor. I advise you to attend." Louis statued expression almost broke at the utterance of her name, the first time he spoke it out in public. If only it hadn't been under these circumstances. "Getting to move past this is a collective effort, allowing for some semblance of closure. Do each other a favor; tell your friends and acquaintances about this event too. Only together we can get through this. That's all."
Carefully, Louis stepped off the stage, not wanting to jeopardize his health any further. Necessary as this sacrifice was, he was playing two pawns down. If he kept going like this, it would eventually catch up to him. I just need to hold on for a week. Can't give up now.
As he strode towards his office, someone carefully tapped him on the shoulder. Turning his head, he saw it was Bill. "Hey, um, Louis. I just wanna say... thank you." Giving him a reassuring smile, he turned his body halfway to face the tiger. "Don't mention it. The pleasure is all mine."
The tiger actually expected a different reaction, or retort from the deer. He was oddly... nice? Surprised, Bill wanted to say something else, but Louis was on the move again. Deciding not to follow up on what had transpired, Bill decidedly moved on to do other things.
Finally, Louis closed and locked the door behind him; immediately letting himself fall to the ground. His breathing heaved at the physical challenges that stunt posed. Now he had to be really careful, otherwise he'll find himself in trouble sooner rather than later.
Crawling towards the wall with just his arms, he steadied himself on his better half. Limping towards his office chair; his sanctuary. Plopping himself down, he scooted back a few meters, letting out a relieved hitch. "After all this I am going to the hospital."
Right now, that reality seems like a distant dream. However, if he doesn't watch his step, he'll probably end up in the hospital morgue rather than a bed. Getting out his phone, he looked at a selfie he and Haru made watching the sundown. Made barely a month ago. She looked so happy... "I swear I'll try to do your memory justice tonight. I promise. You'll be among your flowers, like you always wanted."
Attending the wake of someone you didn't know is kind of an odd feeling. Could that be considered normal? If an animal dies of sickness or an accident, it isn't weird to attend their memorial service even if you didn't know them all that well. Jack simply doesn't have a clue anymore, closure or moving on is easier said than done. Grief, unfortunately, isn't like an assignment: you can't just set your mind to it, and eventually you'll finish it like that. Emotions are far more complex and layered.
When Legosi told room 701 about the service initially, Jack was reluctant to come. He felt it wouldn't be appropriate for him to be there, but after some pressing from Collot and Voss he went along anyway. And maybe it was be for the better, it's bad to bottle up emotions and attending a memorial would be a good outlet. Everyone would be just as discontent as he was, a morbid group bonding exercise.
Moonlight shone down through the stairwell, lighting it just enough for animals without nocturnal vision to see. This night's the moon was clearer than it usually was, at least, it seemed that way. Almost something you would only hear about in fairytales, but this wasn't a fairytale; this was a nightmare and no matter how many sheep he counted it wouldn't end. It reminded Jack of a saying, he couldn't remember from whom it came: "Soon there will be only darkness, and that darkness will be your everything".
Looking to his left he saw Legosi, and couldn't help but feel comfortable around his presence. The moon only adding to Legosi's elemental beauty as a large breed, accentuating his features sharply. He remembered the last time he saw Legosi in formal attire, eerily enough the circumstances were the same.
Every time Jack gazed upon the wolf in such a natural state, he couldn't help but feel like he was staring at a piece of art. Their far-off expression encapsulated perfection. If he could he would freeze this moment in time, and be perfectly satisfied with his best friend's company.
Life, however, didn't allow for such pleasantries. It doesn't care about being fair. Fair isn't everyone getting the same; fair is getting what you deserve, right? His parents hammered that mantra in his head ever since he was a pup, now he couldn't help but feel like it was cruel. Nobody deserved the hand that rabbit was dealt. "Jack?", Legosi addressed, the labrador meeting his gaze. "Are you alright? You look... conflicted."
Instead of answering with honesty, Jack opted for his usual cheerier expression. "Yeah, I was... just deep in thought. Nothing to worry about." Legosi didn't buy it, not even close, decidedly dropping it. Jack wouldn't be having such a conversation about stuff like that here anyway. There was a sudden shift in the rows of animals, more space being generated as they walked upwards. "Oh, would you look at that! It's clearing out", Voss pointed out. "Let's go guys."
They all nodded and started ascending the stairs. As they opened the doors to the rooftop garden, Jack was instantly hit by the soft smell of candles. Looking around, he could only look in awe at the beauty of this place. Staggering roses adorned the arch in the middle of the garden: blue, yellow, red and white decorated it fully. On the sides, there were two paths that eventually joined each other in a larger middle area. Flowers and trees from big to small growing in the patches next to them.
All the animals attending were respectfully quiet, only communicating in whispers or hand signals. Sometimes you were even able to hear a hushed murmur here and there. The atmosphere was solemn bringing with it, a sort of calm atmosphere you could only find inside a library or a movie theater. At first glance, Jack didn't see any familiar faces, but maybe that was because of his lack of height. Also a memorial wasn't really the right place to have a powwow.
"Wow", everyone said in tandem, being all they could really muster. Did that rabbit really take care of such a place, all by herself? Wouldn't a small herbivore have issues up-keeping a club like this? If it were the case, Jack would only be impressed. Figuring it a shame that nobody would be able to tend to it anymore.
They moved to the bigger area behind the arch, where letters and prayers were strewn around like leafs. Because the shrine was a bit too crowded for their taste, they decided to pay their respects properly later.
"Guys, Voss and me are going to have a look around", Collot said, Legosi agreeing before Jack got in a word edgewise. "Be back in a few." Now Jack was left alone with Legosi who had as much emotional reciprocity as a dried up cactus.
Just my luck. The wolf kind of... shut down over the past few hours. What caused such a response? Jack didn't have a clue. Kind of wishing that Miguno and Durham came along with them, having had probably the roughest few days of their lives they weren't as enthusiastic.
Before the labrador could even process the information provided, Legosi had also sauntered off to somewhere; Jack only noticing when he got his bearings again. Oh, come on! He almost wanted to leave on the spot, refraining from it because Voss would probably skin him. Well, better explore the place by myself then, all alone.
Walking around, there wasn't much of substance to see. Gloominess, sadness; it all hit the same undertones. However, the air felt lighter here than when you were walking down the halls. From the conversations Jack caught parts of: none were really discussing the deceased in an all too positive light, making the lab almost grumble at the disrespect.
Of course, he caught the rumors regarding her, but pulling those dredges from the river was just an act of cruelty. He needed to get as far away from those libelous things as possible. Don't they have any shame? This is a wake, not a crucifixion! He contemplated calling them out on it, but they'd just deny it.
Making his way deeper into the garden, ever annoyed, he saw a familiar cheetah leaning over the railing of the balcony; looking at the city lights in the distance with admiration. Oh, it's Shiira. I suppose I can tell her hello. Calmly walking his way over to her, his lower spine tingled with an unfamiliar excitement. The feeling was foreign to him, even though dogs were pretty happy-go-lucky.
Not paying too much mind to it, leaning over the railing; he mirrored her gaze towards the lights. Instantly understanding their appeal, being like a constellation of colorful stars. "Beautiful, aren't they?", Jack asked sighing softly.
Her whiskers shifting a little in surprise. Looking over at the labrador, initially, she didn't know who he was before he features lit up with recognition. "Oh, hey!", Shiira greeted cheerfully. Jack thanking Rex she had even bothered to remember who he was. "Yeah, I agree with you, they're dazzling. Your... name's Jack, right? I'm sorry, my memory's somewhat shaky at times."
Even though her greeting was friendly, Jack could somehow feel a tinge of sadness and anger underneath it all. She seems... preoccupied. Maybe I can cheer her up? "Mhm, you're spot on!", he smiled making a slight pun, making her snort. "It's good to see you here. After our... less than stellar introduction." The cheetah rolled her eyes, gauging the guy with a playful expression.
Shiira wanted to know what he was even doing at a place like this. Jack, meanwhile, wondered what she was thinking. Shiira spoke up curtly, "Okay, enough with the puns. You've cheered me up, a little. Canines are excellent social animals, are they not?"
"Some of us are. Sorry to ruin your bad mood", Jack said letting out an awkward chuckle. She shook her head with a sigh. "No, no, I have to thank you. I am not really that good with all this emotional stuff." Looking off into the distance again, the heaviness on her chest still prevailing despite pouring her heart out earlier today. Everything surrounding this situation made her feel bad and she didn't want Jack to be affected by her emotional detriments.
"You know... how dogs are genetically engineered towards feeling happiness?" Being aware of the fact she nodded. "Even then, it can be hard to give stuff like this a place. There's really no shame in feeling sad or powerless, because it's who and what we are", Jack lectured in monotone, Shiira attentively listening. Happy he wasn't offering unrequited sympathy like so many others did. She didn't need: 'Are you alright?'.
"But, looking at those lights and the countless stories and wonders they entail... makes it all worth it in the end. Living to see another day; knowing, eventually, everything will be alright." The labrador knew he sounded like some sentimental old sod, but in this moment, wasn't inclined to watch his tongue.
Letting out a purr, Shiira hummed affirmatively, appreciating that he spoke his mind instead of mincing words. "I... think I agree with you. No matter how bad life gets, we press on; not because we always want to, but because we have no other option. It isn't supposed to be easy, and the world is petty and unfair. But, we wouldn't know what good there is, if there wasn't the bad to balance it out."
When Shiira finished her sentence it was quiet for a little while, allowing their thoughts to sink in while watching the booming cityscape. Suddenly, the cheetah couldn't help but laugh a little, Jack joining in her amusement soon after. Eventually, the laughter died down and she gave the dog a sarcastic smirk. "Look at us... philosophizing like a bunch of old farts", she said, chuckling despite herself.
Shiira could've never anticipated that she would be talking ideals with a canine. "You have no clue how much I needed that. We've come a long way from me cussing you out in the hallway, haven't we?" Jack retorted back playfully, catching the cheetah's drift, "A long way? Sure, even though, it was less than a week ago. Should've watched where I was going."
"Indeed, you should have. But, hey, if you hadn't bumped into me - we probably wouldn't be talking now. And, trust me, you blow every other 'compassionate' animal out of the water." Shiira appreciates honesty and character above everything else; the labrador being a breath of fresh air for once.
Meanwhile, the dog's tail was having adventures separate from its host, aggressively wagging. What's the matter with you?! Stop it, stupid tail! The labrador becoming increasingly confused as to why it was doing that. "Great to know I've fallen in your good graces. Most felines would've run for the hills by now", Jack quipped, trying to distract himself.
Shiira gave him an amiable look. "'Most felines' have no clue how fun canines are. All of them could take some socialization from your books." The cheetah's compliment caught Jack off-guard, not expecting such forwardness. A bit of self-mockery lacing the sentence's tone. I've never met someone so... honest before. She's... really interesting.
This is why he loved making conversation, you can peel back so many layers of what makes an animal tick, and if you're lucky you can discover someone far more profound than what they initially seem to be at first glance. "And I'll have you know that those hills are for pussies. I prefer scenic vistas", she necessitated as she returned her sights to the city.
"Ever been to a mountain range before?", Jack asked trying to thread lighter topics. "Yes, actually, I went with my mom and stepfather to the Himalayas five years ago." It was an impromptu trip orchestrated by her stepfather to get her to like him, a worthless scheme by a worthless man.
She knew that she was at Cherryton only because of him, but would never appreciate that office bootlicker for it. He was a manipulative bastard, who's turning her own mom against her. Though Shiira wouldn't let such things slip, especially to her like-able new acquaintance. "The nature was beautiful; I've never seen such a clear sunset since."
"Wow! That sounds awesome! Bet it beats this view a thousand times over", Jack said with confidence. He wished he could go out of the country once. His parents aren't poor by any stretch of the imagination, but they always prioritized his studies over pleasure. It's simply the life of a canine. "Every view has its charms, Gold. Natural or not, you have to agree that the city is beautiful." He could only affirm that sentiment, finding her nickname for him unoriginal but funny.
Although, he was curious about one thing. "So... are you here with friends?" Shiira's tail swished at the question, both surprised and intrigued; looking at Jack with curiosity. Simply deciding to humor him, she answered with playful sardonicism, "Nah, they preferred to ride this one out. Originally, I wasn't too keen on attending. Didn't have much of a choice though, Pres Louis forced me at gunpoint."
Jack could understand what she was trying to convey. This wasn't a get together she personally cherry picked. "Hm, yeah, didn't seem like you wanted to be here at all. You looked like you were headed for the gallows", Jack snarked. Shiira laughed softly at the idea, this dog was a riot. "I certainly look the part. Kind of sucks that the black dress skirt I am wearing has to be worn under such... grave circumstances."
"Ah, come on, for what it's worth: you look good." Her choice of wear made Jack feel like his casual clothes were kind of blasé for something as formal as this. He put in some effort: putting on his black khakis and suit jacket. However, it didn't seem par for the course for an event like this. She responded with a snicker, "Thanks. I swear I am usually not this mopey."
"Oh, trust me, mopey has a name in my dorm room. Alas, the status-quo", Jack replied, hinting at Legosi. Shiira instantly knew who he was referring to, earning the dog a wry grin. "These past few days sucked. Yet-", he paused. "I dunno. Thinking about stuff only gets you so far. Sometimes you need others to fill in the gaps, so..." Jack smacked his lips offering her his hand, trying not stumble over himself. "Shall we pay our respects together?"
Giving him an amused glance, she took the labrador's hand with a bit of force. "Smooth. Very smooth. Sounds good, let's go." Instead of Jack taking her with him, Shiira took the lead; dragging the dog along with her.
Jack, meanwhile, trying to level the same amount of strength she put in her grip. She's stronger than she looks, cripes. Note to self: don't underestimate Shiira. "Don't think for a minute I'll let you win that easily, slick. A feline has their pride to maintain", the cheetah laughed.
"You're a talented conversationalist, ya know? Take this as you will, but you're probably even better than Louis." It was true, the dog cheered her up better than that presumptuous deer ever could with his soulless speeches. Now Shiira was kind of happy with the fact that she cussed him out all those days ago.
"Ehm, thank you?", Jack replied shyly. As he got pulled along, some animals gave them a passing glance; some of them giggled at the sight. The labrador didn't even want to know what they were gossiping about; he'd probably keel over first.
He wasn't really sure how to take Shiira's compliment. Sure, dogs were excellent social animals, but to be on the level of Louis' public speaking? The dog wasn't too convinced. "No need to get all flustered", Shiira teased, her voice sugary. "Focus on keeping up. Where's the smooth talker I've gotten used to?"
Even he wasn't sure why he suddenly clamped down like that. He needed to up the ante. "Yeah, yeah. Slow down, we're not in a rush", Jack replied evenly. This is going to be a long night.
Lurking near the shrine, Legosi huddled himself in the corner of the left pathway. Quietly observing the animals who went to pay their respects. Finding the thick incense of flowers and candles distracting and making his nose ticklish. But, despite everything, he could still smell her scent; seemingly being stronger than any other animal in the vicinity.
Her scent brung back some fond memories, now always at the forefront of the wolf's mind. The watery taste her flesh had in his mouth, the silk-like feeling of her bountiful fur, the blood pumping elation he felt when he drew her blood and her futile attempts at trying to escape even though they were ultimately pointless.
The remembrance of all of those wonderful sensations set Legosi's teeth on edge. His hands beginning to tingle with the same anticipation he felt when he ripped into her. Never forgetting the feeling of how every step felt like walking on air, not even to mention the high. When finally stripped from his burdens, the wolf's body was practically weightless.
Every whiff he took in this Garden of Eden was like another footfall closer to his original ecstasy. Legosi's muscles contracting the same way they did that very night; drool forming at the back of his maw. Almost having the urge to let it drip down his muzzle, but tempering himself in time with a swallow.
This was something he never wanted to let go if he could. This epitomized his freedom and independence from this rotten world. He would never be society's puppet ever again; he would much rather die, right now. Knowing if he continued to thread this path, the wolf would be unstoppable; infallible. Legosi gleefully running his tongue through his teeth just by the mere thought.
Unfortunately, this feeling of elation didn't last him long. A ripples of pain running through his entire being at once. Every beat of his heart clamoring making it exponentially worse. Pressure in his chest tightening, as if someone was running it over with a steamroller. Lungs deflating as breathing became more laborious, causing Legosi to hunch over in agony.
W-What the hell is this?! IT H-HURTS! Is this... regret? I have to get out of here! Desperately, he tried stepping forward, almost falling face first to the ground; barely being able to catch himself. His sight becoming fuzzy, Legosi was swaying back and forth almost losing his balance. Leave. This isn't good. Don't lose track of your breathing, steady yourself. Now carefully make your way towards the exit.
Not wanting to make a scene, Legosi slowly stepped forward measuring his pace as carefully as he could. Bystanders were beginning to notice, the wolf being able to hear them but not make out what they were saying. A constant high pitched sound ringing in his ears, making him feel like his head would split in two. Scrambling to get away from this hellhole he found himself in.
As the wolf tried and failed to walk, he eventually ran into Collot and Voss who were looking what the commotion was about. Both of them wearing expressions of worry, Collot addressing him first, "Oh, Rex, Legosi. Are you... alright? You look kind of sick."
If only they knew that he felt so much worse than just sick. Voss jumped in too, "Understatement of the century. It looks like he has a fever or something." As Legosi neared closer with his next step he fell forwards, Collot catching him in the nick of time.
"Woah there, buddy", the sheepdog whispered, giving the wolf his shoulder to lean on. The wolf's breathing hitched, content he didn't have to support himself anymore. "Let's get you to the nursery-" Before Collot could finish that thought, Legosi cut him off by raising his hand.
There's no way in hell I am going there. I would be measuring my own coffin. The sheepdog was eying the wolf with surprise, Voss also not sure what to make of it. "J-Just g-get me to a r-restroom, Collot. I-I p-probably need to get it ou-out of my system."
The fennec clambered in-between both large canines, his voice just loud enough so both could hear it. "Alright, Collot, you get this gray doofus to the restroom. I'll go get Jack and tell him what's up. See you guys in a few."
Legosi thanked his lucky stars as they began scooting over towards the stairwell. Arms and legs feeling heavier and more burdensome by the second. Keep going. There's no point of throwing in the towel now; it's far too late for that.
"Jeez, Legosi, you're getting heavy", Collot commented offhandedly while descending the steps. Legosi only responding with a weak grunt, not wanting to waste his breath on shallow words of affirmation. "We're almost there. Just hang into there, literally."
By this point, he had no idea how far they've even made it through the hallway. When they reached the restroom, Legosi had no idea how long it took them. His perception of time completely out of whack.
The longer it went on, the more bearable the pain became. Though being boiled alive would've been far more preferable. Just because something is 'bearable' doesn't mean it doesn't hurt. "I am... s-sorry a-about this, Collot... Can... you wait... here?"
His friend was hesitant to let him go about it alone, however he also wanted to give him some space. Nodding slowly, the sheepdog opened the door for him. Legosi sauntering inside with an apologetic smile, eventually facing away. "Just... wait here. I'll be... in... there if... you need me."
Collot didn't need to see the drool now dripping from his maw, it would raise all the wrong concerns. When the door closed behind him, Legosi in a last burst of strength, hurled himself towards one of the stalls. Wanting to puke his guts out, yet nothing came; this feeling was here to stay. Every attempt at lurching it all out was met with an esophagus knitted shut, not allowing him any relied. Why? Just why?
Sitting there on his knees, drool falling from his teeth in free-fall, nothing happened. He could only sit there to suffer in silence, as the pain slowly grew worse. It getting so bad, he almost passed out, willing himself awake and standing up. His knees were shaking, ready to give out at any minute. Water. I just need some water. Hoisting himself up by using the stalls, he used all the force left in his arms to propel himself towards the sink.
Barely being able to catch it, the porcelain was the only thing between him and the floor. Turning on the faucet, his hand shaking all the while, Legosi took some gratuitous sips from it. Only stopping when he couldn't no more. It made him feel a little better, but not by much. Looking into the mirror, he found himself entranced by a dark shadow staring back at him with scorn and loathing. Was he actually surprised?
"Good evening, murderer." What did this thing want from him now? He was not in the mood for this. "What do you want?", Legosi demanded snidely. A feral grin plastered the shadows face, the wolf shuddering at the mere sight. "Oh, I don't think we are acquainted yet. You address me like we're good friends. But we're not, not after what you did."
"You are lower than the dirt, you know? A little bit of meat turned you into a bloodthirsty maniac." That wasn't true, he simply wants to be free. Society has held him prisoner for far too long. Giving him a lazy smile, the shadow bared his teeth as a show of disdain. "Oh, don't even give me that 'It's society's fault' crap. It's actually quite pathetic really, throwing away your inhibitions at the drop of a hat, like the MONSTER you are."
"What?! Shut up! You aren't real!", the wolf yelled. "You're just a figment of my imagination; the weak loser from the past!" The shadow gave an unconvinced huff, glaring daggers at the wolf. Even with acknowledging all this madness, something was amiss. With a judging snarl, the shadow pointed at him accusingly. "And what if I am? I am still you. I know what you feel and think. That 'the devil may care' attitude is a lie."
"You lost yourself in a moment of weakness and you're burying yourself with excuse after excuse. Anything so that fickle brain of yours doesn't have to acknowledge the truth." And what truth was that? That he enjoyed every single nanosecond of it? It made his stomach growl. "Let's look at it from a different angle. Did she deserve it? She had a life of her own and you selfishly took that away from her without a smidge of remorse."
"You aren't me", Legosi laughed. "There is no way in hell, right?" Something was up, this wasn't the same thing he met a few days ago. This was bad, really bad. "Well, to answer your question. I am you. And what you want versus what you need are entirely different things." What the hell is he even babbling about?! "Yeah, I kinda still didn't answer your question. I AM HERE TO GIVE YOU A WAKE-UP CALL." The reverberation of the voice shook Legosi's entire being, making him gulp. "LET'S SEE HOW YOU ENJOY THIS."
A sudden burst of emotion and memories hit the wolf across the head like a wooden plank. Memories of making her suffer, how he had defiled her in every single way and how he had made her beg for her life. Tearing away finger after finger, reveling in her screams of terror. Plucking out one of her eyes while she was still alive, and making her watch while he ate them. Slowly cutting through the muscle of her ears and savoring its fleshy taste, as she cried and sniffled.
All the while snapping her petite bones and methodically ripping them off of her joints. How her sweat and tears made him gleeful beyond measure. How her fur felt like, once he had ripped it from her hide and her final cries as he tore open her abdomen; feasting on her insides while she slowly passed. Legosi snapped out of his daze, mortified. This had to be fake. "WAIT! No, no, no, no, no! These aren't mine... I would never!"
"What? You were delusional, delirious enough to omit all of that. YOU TORTURED HER." The wolf's knees gave out on him, sagging to the floor like a bag of potatoes. Scampering his way backwards, far away from the mirror. Chuckling sadistically, the shadow continued, "Now it isn't so fun anymore, is it? How far you have fallen." Pressing his back against the stalls, Legosi could look on in horror. What has he done? "Was it worth it: that momentary high? I bet not." Legosi snarled in anger, "Fuck you! I would do it again."
"You're a disgrace for lying to your friends, especially to Jack. He's always been there for you and you betray him just like that?" What was he supposed to do?! Just tell everyone and get thrown into the slammer?! That would ruin my own life! Nobody would ever give me the time of day again! The shadow let out a hellish cackle, mocking the wolf for his insolence. "Do you have any idea how many lives you have destroyed? Yet, you still only care about your own!"
"Survival of the fittest, asshole", Legosi cussed, giving the shadow his gracious middle finger. "I care enough to not shatter my friend's perception of me. That would ruin them." Rolling his eyes, the shadow gave him a sardonic smirk. Legosi wasn't feeling a lot better, but at least the shadow invigorated enough spite within him to last. "Yes, lying to them is better. You are worthless, fucking scum. You have been trying to protect herbivores from yourself and others all your life; out of the goodness of your heart. And now you treat them like food? Die in a ditch!"
"What are you going to do now? Pretend everything is fine?" What other choice did he have? This is a secret he would have to take with him, to the fucking grave if he must. If he were to ever come out with this, his life would be over. Sink or swim, he would just have to become someone else.
"I think I'll manage", Legosi growled. "Go fuck yourself." The wolf got up and walked over to the mirror with a lot of strain. All the while the shadow gave him a menacing smile. "DON'T THINK FOR A MINUTE THIS IS OVER, KILLER."
"It is", Legosi said pulling back his fist. "Never come back." Unleashing all the force in his hand onto the mirror full force causing it to shatter. A wave of calm rushing over him; instantly feeling much better, he cracked his now bloody knuckles.
Wiping the blood off with the water still running down the sink. "Good fucking riddance." The door opened, Collot's voice booming through the room. "Legosi? Are you alright? I thought I heard something break?"
"Everything's fine. I am coming. I am feeling a lot better", Legosi replied, not wanting the sheepdog to come in. Fucking shadow, asshole. Now let's hope they don't pin this on me. Hastily getting out of the restroom, meeting Collot, Jack and Voss in the hallway. "Legosi! Are you alright? Voss told me you were unwell!", Jack asked with a sympathetic voice. Sighing, the wolf contemplated his answer, settling on something simple. "I threw out everything, but I am feeling better now."
"Look at how pale you are. Let's head back to the dorm", Jack ordered, Legosi complying just with his look alone. That didn't sound like a suggestion. Better to just go along with it. When it came to stuff like this, the labrador was absolutely steadfast. Collot offered his shoulder again, but the wolf simply refused. "No, thank you, Collot. I-I am probably able to walk by myself."
"Miguno and Durham are getting the honey tea ready", Jack said tapping on his phone. "You'll need something in your stomach for this. Biscuits will probably be fine." Nodding along, they slowly began their stride through the halls.
Being happy that he had such caring friends, he contemplated a little about what the shadow said, but he knew he had to persevere. If not for himself, he'd have to do it for them. "Thanks, guys. Let's just head back."