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_Author's Note: Wow it seems like forever since I last posted huh (or is that just me?) Anyways I hope you all didn't miss me too much and if you did, well I'm flattered (blushes). Sadly this part of the Zoo only has ONE more chapter left. But I'm most likely going to continue it after the mystery story is done. I encourage you to check that out when I release it. Also, check out my other story series if you haven't already. As always Like, Rate, Favorite, and don't be afraid to shoot me a comment or a shout. I don't bite. Hope you all enjoy. Peace and Love.- AK _

Dr. Tennant waited outside the door to Dulion's apartment quietly. He didn't want to spoil the surprise waiting for the young advisor. The Doctor took a quick glance over his shoulder at all of the people who had gathered outside Dulion's door. Most, if not all of the Zoo had to be waiting outside. It made the Doctor happy to see all the support Dulion was having. This was not only because Dulion deserved it, but because Dr. Tennant loved seeing all of the people in the Zoo coming together. It was a moment like this that brought everyone together like one big family; and that was why Dr. Tennant started the Zoo in the first place.

"Think he knows?" whispered Jayson.

"I don't see how." Dr. Tennant said. "We didn't let on what we were doing."

"Perhaps Ibuki told him?" Josef said.

"Are you kidding?" Cameron said playfully. "Ibuki can keep a secret better than anyone."

"Shh." Stephanie said. "The door is opening."

The door to Dulion's apartment opened. A female's arm stuck out and held up a finger. Dr. Tennant got everyone's attention. The surprise was about to be sprung.

"Okay," said Ibuki's voice from the other side of the door, "you better get going."

"Yeah," said Dulion. "The car should be outside soon. I made sure you and everyone here has a seat where I'm speaking. Just so you can all laugh at how bad I sound."

"Oh stop it. You're going to be fine. Now come on."

Ibuki opened the door fully and stepped into the hall on to the side quickly. She gave a quick wink to the Doctor. Dulion appeared in the doorway, limping with his cane in his hand and looking down at some papers he held in his hand. The moment he appeared, Dr. Tennant led the gathered crowd in a huge cheer and a round of applause. Dulion looked up from his papers with a start. When he noticed what was going on, a broad smile appeared on his face. The surprise had definitely worked.

Dulion turned red and hung his head in a bit of embarrassment. Dr. Tennant stepped up to Dulion and offered him his hand which Dulion took in a firm handshake. The applause died down and Dr. Tennant gripped Dulion on his shoulder and turned to face everyone.

"We wanted to show our support." Dr. Tennant said loudly so everyone could hear. "In the relatively short time you have been with us, you have done much to make our lives better and richer."

"And he's cute too!" Shouted out Jayson which caused Dulion to turn a deeper shade of red and caused a bit of laughter.

"When you first came here, I had my doubts about your intentions." The Doctor continued. "But you have proven me wrong. It has been an honor working alongside you and getting to know you. I am so happy to call you my friend. Thank you for everything."

The Doctor embraced Dulion, which Dulion returned the embrace. The Doctor took a step to the side and let Dulion address everyone.

"Wow." Dulion said. "I can't believe you guys actually did this for me."

The Doctor noticed Dulion take in a sharp breath like he was trying not to cry.

"I really should be thanking all of you." Dulion said. "You all welcomed me here, despite knowing why I was here. And then when I was...well forced out of the cage, you all showed me tremendous support. No matter what happens, I will never forget all of you. It is my privilege to be not only your advisor, but your friend as well. My door is open to all of you no matter where that door should be. I only hope that it will remain in the Zoo for as long as possible. Thank you all so much for this."

The last words Dulion uttered were done with a shaking voice. Try as he might, Dulion couldn't stop tears from flowing. Ibuki stepped up to him and gave him a kiss on the cheek and held him close. Dulion was once again greeted with a round of applause. After a moment of composing himself, Dulion began walking to outside of the Zoo. As he did, several of the tenants stopped him to shake his hand and show him encouragement. Some, like Jess, gave him a big hug. Others simply nodded and wished him luck. This continued until Dulion walked out the door.

"There he goes," whispered Jayson to Dr. Tennant, "the savior of the lycanthropes."

"Do you really believe that?" Dr. Tennant asked.

"No. But maybe the illusion is necessary right now. At any rate, his heart is in the right place. And sometimes, that's all you need."

Dr. Tennant nodded. He was eager to hear what Dulion's speech to the lycanthrope community would be.

***

Dulion felt his phone buzzing in his pocket the moment he stepped outside of The Zoo. A quick glance at his caller ID told him it was DeCosta who was on the other line. With a press of a button, Dulion was connected.

"This is Dulion." He said.

"James, it's DeCosta. Got a second?"

"Sure, what's up?"

"I've been doing a little digging since you gave me the papers on Avery."

"Anything useful turn up?"

DeCosta's voice suddenly became quiet, almost to the point of a whisper.

"Yeah actually." DeCosta said. "I don't want to go into too much detail right now; too many ears around. But let's just say that I think this may be bigger than either of us thought when this all started.

"What do you mean?" Asked Dulion who was slowly developing a cold sweat.

"I think Avery's strings are being pulled, and I think I know by who. I'll tell you everything after the parade. Think you can meet me in the pub on 18th tonight? "

"Yeah sure. Shouldn't be a problem."

"Alright good. Until then this is between us only, understood?"

"Of course. How is everything parade side?"

"Fine, but I still have an eerie feeling. I'll keep an eye out."

"Be careful out there."

"Eh, don't worry about me. Just go a deliver that speech of yours. See you tonight and remember..."

"...keep it quiet."

"Right. Take care, James."

The other line went quiet and Dulion's phone disconnected from the call. Dulion turned his head just in time to see the car that was to pick him up pull in front of him. There was no turning back now. Quietly he hoped that the speech he was about to give would be the most eventful thing to happen all day. But with DeCosta's rather cryptic warning, Dulion felt his skin crawling. This was going to be a long day and there was no turning back now.

***

Ibuki looked around and was impressed at the sheer size of the parade before her. Most of the people which surrounded her were lycanthropes; however she even spotted some humans alongside them with equal words of encouragement. Maybe they weren't as hated as she thought. Of course there still was CATTL who was protesting the parade, claiming that lycanthropes should be put in cages; and WILD, who apparently were not invited to participate decried not only CATTL but the whole parade as an attempt for lycanthropes to "put on collars." Luckily, they were kept on very different sides of the parade and more importantly, were drowned out by the sheer number of regular lycanthropes and humans just enjoying the carefree atmosphere.

Of course there were some lycanthropes that were there to make a statement. Ibuki spotted a few signs that said things like "Can't keep us caged" and other similar signs. Ibuki's personal favorite was a sign held by a human with an arrow pointing to a lycanthrope saying "Why can't we be friends?" Ibuki wasn't marching in the parade, nor were any of the other people in the Zoo that she knew of. A few special people had been asked to sit towards the front of the podium as Dulion's distinguished guests. Ibuki sat in between Dr. Tennant and Jess as she eagerly awaited Dulion to get on the makeshift stage.

"Any idea what this speech is going to be about?" Jess asked Ibuki.

"No idea." Ibuki answered. "He kept it a secret. To be honest, I don't remember him ever actually writing anything."

"So wait, he's just going to wing it?"

"I wouldn't put it past him. Isn't that basically how he got here in the first place?"

"Point taken."

Ibuki watched as other people began to file into the seats around the podium. Ibuki recognized a few of the faces she saw. Most were Lycanthrope community leaders; people who had serious pull in their respective towns and neighborhoods among the lycanthrope population. There were a few humans there. Ibuki recognized the mayor was there and some other big named state politician, maybe a senator? District Attorney Clare was also there, looking very uncomfortable. Ibuki thought it was less to do with the Lycanthropes and more crowd; he didn't seem the type for fun parades. Directly behind the seating area there was a barricade which held many lycanthropes and humans alike back, guarded by police officers in case anyone got any ideas.

On the makeshift stage sat several chairs that began to be filled by different people; most likely people associated with the parade. Each person who got onto the stage was in their lycanthrope form except one; a young looking man who held a cane in his right hand. Ibuki smiled at Dulion as he took his seat, earning her a wink. The rat who had originally asked Dulion to speak stepped up to podium and tapped the microphone a few times. The once noisy crowd grew silent.

"H-hello everyone." He said. "On behalf of the parade committee, I'd like to thank all of you for coming out to support us here today."

A loud cheer erupted from the crowd.

"Now I would like to introduce our guest of honor. Before he was forced out of the cage, he was appointed the advisor to the lycanthropes living in the Mona Suites. While there, he has fought to keep a family together, has worked with authorities to stop a dangerous criminal, and has himself been discovered to be one of us. Ladies and Gentlemen, I am pleased to introduce Mr. James Dulion.

***

Dulion took a deep breath as he rose to his feet and walked to the podium. It took him a few moments to get there due to his leg. As he hobbled towards the podium he was greeted with a loud chorus of cheers. Mr. Stevens shook Dulion's hand and made way for Dulion to get to the podium. Dulion put his notes, which were less notes and more bullet points of ideas he had the night before, down on the podium. Once the applause died down, Dulion began speaking.

"I don't want to take much time today." He started. "I'd much rather if everyone went on enjoying the nice weather and just have a good time. However I was asked to give a few words. First I would like to thank the parade organizers for giving me this opportunity to speak. I would also like to thank District Attorney Clare who had the faith in me to not only make me an advisor, but keep me on after I was outed. Finally, but most importantly of all to me, I'd like to thank the lycanthropes at the Zoo, specifically Dr. Matthew Tennant for giving me a home and my wonderful girlfriend who swore she would kill me if I mentioned her name."

There was a small amount of laughter and Dulion looked down at Ibuki with a sly grin.

"There has been a lot said about me recently and I like to set the record straight on a few things. First off, I am a lycanthrope. You'll forgive me, I trust, for being in my human form. But this is how I feel most comfortable. One of the many issues lycanthropes and humans alike often struggle with is feeling comfortable in their own skin and I am no exception. To all the other lycanthropes I would like to say that I'm not an activist. I'm definitely not a savior. All I am is a guy who wanted to help when I could. Second, and I want to stress this point; humans are NOT your enemy, regardless of what some would have you believe. They want to live, love, and work in peace. They want to be accepted for who they are. There may be some humans who are against lycanthropes, but they are the minority. Treat everyone, human or lycanthrope with respect. This will do wonders."

"Now, to any humans who may be listening and are afraid of us or even hate us, once again, we are not your enemies. We want to live, love and work in peace. We want to be accepted for who we are. There may be some lycanthropes who are against you but they are the minority. Treat everyone, human or lycanthrope with respect. This will do wonders. And yes, I do realize that is exactly what I just said. That's the point. Only when we work together can we survive and help our communities thrive. To everyone, be proud of who and what you are. Love and help each other and amazing things will happen. Let's welcome a new era of friendship starting today. Thank you very much."

Dulion stepped away from the podium to the sounds of cheers and applause. The people who were sitting all stood up and continued clapping. Dulion looked down at all his friends with a broad grin. When his eyes came to Ibuki, his grin broadened just a little bit. Dulion finally exhaled. Finally, it was over. Just as Dulion relaxed, the sound of explosions filled the air.

The cheers were replaced by screams of panic. The parade organizers quickly fled from the stage. Police officers immediately rushed into the crowds of people to get them to safety as another explosion sounded. While the sound was deafening, the explosions sounded like they came from a good deal away. A police officer in full swat gear which concealed his face escorted Dulion off the stage and behind it.

"You need to let me go." Dulion said. "I need to help my friends."

The officer thought for a moment and nodded. Dulion quickly turned into his lycanthrope form and turned to rush and make sure Ibuki and everyone else would be okay, but he never got the chance. He felt a sharp blow on the back of his head and fell to the ground. The last thing he heard was screaming as everything went black.

***

The explosions happened so quick Cameron barely had time to react. Her first priority was making sure her family was safe. Josef held Stephanie tightly. Tears were already streaming down her face. Police rushed into the crowd directing people away from the blast. The explosion likely happened miles away, but for all anyone knew, the next one could be mere feet away.

Cameron moved quickly behind Josef and Stephanie. The sounds of screaming people and police barking out orders filled her ears. As she moved, Cameron's eyes darted around to the other people around her. She saw Dr. Tennant holding Cassie close as he and Jayson were escorted along with many other people to safety. Cameron heard footsteps closing quickly behind her. When she glanced back, she saw Ibuki and Jess rushing to catch up.

"Figured we'd stay with you." Ibuki said.

Cameron nodded.

"Right, stay close."

"FOLLOW THE OFFICERS!" One of the cops yelled. "EVERYONE MOVE AS QUICK AS POSSIBLE. PLEASE REMAIN CALM!"

Cameron made sure that she stood close to Josef and Stephanie as police led them away from the makeshift stage. As they did, Cameron saw the parade organizers all together, being led away by a police officer; but Dulion was not with them.

"Ibuki!" Cameron yelled so she could be heard. "Have you seen Dulion?!"

"No!" Ibuki yelled back. "I thought he was with the parade organi..."

Cameron looked on helpless as Ibuki finally saw Dulion was missing.

"He'll be fine." Cameron said trying to reassure Ibuki. "Come on! We have to move!"

As they were led behind the makeshift stage, Cameron saw in the ground a dark colored object. As she got closer, she realized it was a cane. Cameron felt her heart sink. She quietly hoped Ibuki wouldn't see it. But the gasp and scream that came from behind her dashed that hope. Cameron saw a young looking man in a dark suit rushing to Ibuki. She recognized him as the FBI agent who Dulion was working with.

"Are you okay? What happened?" he asked as he followed along with the crowd.

"Dulion..." Ibuki said weakly as she pointed to the cane.

"Go with the police officers. I'll find Dulion."

Ibuki nodded and the man ran off. As they got closer, Cameron noticed a few drops of red around Dulion's cane. She wanted to scream, but the sound never escaped her throat. Rather, she silently prayed that Dulion and everyone else were okay."

***

When Dulion woke up, his head was throbbing in pain. He felt like he had just gotten hit by a truck. Dulion tried to move his arms to his head to see if he was bleeding, but couldn't. He glanced down only to see that his arms and hands had been bound. He glanced around his location for a moment. It looked familiar.

"This is where..."

"We had our first date!" said an annoyingly irritating voice.

Dulion glanced towards the voice's direction to see Avery Johnson slink in from the shadows. He was wearing a full police officers uniform and brandishing a nightstick. At least now, Dulion knew what had happened to his head.

"Good morning, sunshine!" Avery said cheerfully. "I am so happy you remembered this place. You do care about little old me!"

Avery sat in Dulion's lap which caused Dulion to cringe.

"Aww poor thing. All tied up huh?"

"Let me guess." Dulion said through clenched teeth. "All a part of your "release the beast philosophy?"

"You know, I would have loved to see you release your beast, but I think the time for that has passed, sadly. Oh but how I have dreamed you'd see things my way one day...what a fantasy!"

Avery traced Dulion's lips with his fingers. Dulion growled a bit before trying to bite Avery's finger. Avery gasped in surprise and then laughed.

"Oh...OH! You beautiful man! "Avery said with glee. "There is hope for you yet. How long have I waited to see you do something risqué! I may need a moment."

"You're disgusting." Dulion spat.

"Hey you're the one with the biting fetish, not me. Is that what Ibuki's daughter is into?"

"At least she's not into explosions or causing destruction!"

"Ah you noticed my presents! Don't worry they weren't as bad as you think. Lots of noise, little destruction. I just needed to get your attention. And now I have it!"

"What do you want from me this time?"

"I want to give you a very special present. I want you to have...me!"

Dulion cringed in horror causing Avery to laugh again.

"You have a DIRTY mind Mr. Dulion....and I...LOVE IT!"

Avery stuck his tongue out to lick Dulion's face, but quickly pulled it back in.

"But sadly...that's not what I meant."

Avery got off of Dulion's lap and walked away for a moment. When he returned he was carrying a small gift wrapped box. He put it on Dulion's lap and waited.

"Well," Avery said after a while, "aren't you going to open it?"

Dulion didn't say anything. He just gave Avery a pissed off look.

"Oh right! Silly me, I almost forgot! Your tied up. Well I can unbind you. But you need to promise you'll behave or else."

Avery motioned with the nightstick to illustrate his point. Avery went up to Dulion and began undoing the ropes that bound him.

"You know, if I were you I'd suggest to that little wench of yours to incorporate ropes. It is rather satisfying."

Dulion resisted the urge to gag. With relief the ropes finally came off. Dulion held his sore wrist in his hand, before looking down at the package.

"Oh..." Avery said. "I forgot to mention...you need to be careful with this gift....it's a bit dangerous."

Dulion carefully unwrapped the present on his lap. When he was done, he saw that under the dark wrapping paper was a black box. Dulion took a deep breath and opened the box. Dulion was confused by the gift inside. Sitting in the box was a black colored pistol. Dulion gingerly picked up the gun.

"Do you understand yet?!" Avery aid happily.

"I can't say I do." Dulion said.

"My gift to you is me...my life...my soul...I give them both to you."

"You want me to kill you?" Dulion said confused.

"Exactly! Only you have the right to do it. I can't think of anyone else who should. Just make sure that the first shot does the trick. I'm not a masochist so I doubt I'll enjoy the pain."

Dulion looked at the gun in his hand. He hated to admit it, but part of him, a very big part of him, wanted to shoot the bastard in front of him and keep shooting. But nothing added up. Why would Avery want to die? More importantly, why should Dulion care? Dulion argued with himself for a few minutes before coming to an answer. With a deep breath he pointed the gun at Avery. This madness had to come to an end now.