LION HEART

Wow, Mom! Dad!

Look at that!

Check out the size of the doll that lady's carrying!

Hmm? Where...

Gah!

Wh-what is that?

Th-that isn't a real lion, is it?

I think that woman works at the animal shelter.

As far as I know, she brings that lion with her just about everywhere.

If you ask me, I think it's incredibly reckless of her.

Absolutely! It's far too dangerous!

What if that lion were to suddenly jump out and attack us?

A real lion?

Wow, I've never seen a lion before!

Hey Miss, can I touch it? Just one time, pleaaaaase?

Hmm?

Of course.

Timi is a gentle giant.

W-wait!

What if you get bitten?

Huh?

You listen to me, Miss.

What are you thinking, bringing a wild animal like that onto the streets?

Oh, it's okay. Timi is as gentle as can be.

He'd never bite any...

Be that as it may, he's still a wild animal, isn't he? And he eats plenty of meat, I presume?

To be raising a creature like that in a place where people are barely surviving. It's absurd!

Grrrr?

Gaaaaaahhh!

Honey, are you okay?!

L-look at it!

Those fangs... they're massive!

That's it, we're leaving!

All right, we're going...

...

Zoo Keeper.

Sorry, I know it's late.

Were you sleeping?

Oh gosh.

You clearly were getting ready for bed.

I'm so sorry.

I just didn't know who else to turn to.

Well...

The shelter has closed down temporarily.

This happens every once in a while.

People get edgy about us sheltering certain wild animals.

I also take Timi for walks around the city,

so the shelter has been getting quite an influx of complaints. Hence the temporary closure.

We can't let them out in the wild,

so they stay safe in their cages.

It'll be fine.

The shelter usually reopens in a day or two.

Me?

I'm okay.

I've come to expect this sort of thing, so you can't get too torn up about it.

...

Honestly, I'm fine.

I'm more worried about our animal friends.

Hmm...

Since the shelter has closed its doors, I'm thinking of having all of us go on holiday tomorrow.

Nero and Biscuit haven't had a day off since the shelter was first opened.

We got an official announcement from the Central Government recommending that we take some time off.

I thought so too.

But we're not like other businesses. For us, it's not as simple as closing shop and forgetting about it.

Someone has to take care of the animals while we're off on vacation.

Do you know anyone who would be able to help us out?

All the animals are safe and sound in their individual rooms, so all you have to do is make sure to stick to the feeding schedule.

There are safety locks on all the doors, so you don't have to worry about any escape attempts.

It should be someone who doesn't have allergies or is afraid of bigger animals...

A person who has a real love of animals, and can have a good time being in their company.

We've had some incidents in the past where people get bored and end up playing on their phone a majority of the time.

And also...

Oh... am I being too stringent?

I guess it'd be tough to find someone with all those qualifications, huh?

Wow, really?

I knew you'd be able to help.

Hmm? You're coming too?

I mean, it'd be nice to have you there, but I wouldn't want to take up too much of your time.

Actually...

Come to think of it, I'm taking up your time right now, aren't I?

I'll get out of your hair!

Just let whoever you're contacting know that there's no pressure. If she is not up to it, that's fine.

Goodnight.

Morning, Zoo Keeper.

You're here awfully early.

Whoa, you're sweating up a storm, Trainer.

Are you okay?

Guillotine?

Is that who's supposed to be helping us today?

She hasn't arrived yet.

This Guillotine,

she volunteered to help us out?

I feel bad asking such a big favor of someone on such short notice.

Well, that's good.

Hmm...

I understand that she is enthusiastic to assist, but I cannot leave the shelter to just anyone.

Tell me more about her.

Meow?

Hehehehe...

Attention, everyone!

I am Guillotine de Mephisto.

I have come here by the summons of the King of the Jungle.

...

Uh...

... Meow?

!!

Ah yes, the aura of grandeur, the pure white mane...

You must be the King of the Jungle.

Erm...

Grr?

I, Guillotine, humbly ask you,

what appellation shall I refer to you by?

Um...

this here is Timi.

Timi de Vista.

A remarkable name, truly.

Dang, she put a cool spin on it.

Totally.

Grrr...

Grraaauuu!!

What a warm welcome! It is an honor.

Wait a minute...

Do you understand what Timi is saying?

Normally, I would not reveal this,

but since you appear to be Timi de Vista's trusted aide, I will make an exception.

Aide?

Timi and I share the same fate.

Individuals such as us tend to communicate on a different wavelength.

Therefore, it is possible for us to converse without any of the typical linguistic restraints.

So can you communicate with the other animals too?

Of course.

This body is...

Perfect, then we'll be leaving the shelter in good hands!

Meow!

Scoops spoke highly of you, so you can't be all that bad.

And I think Timi is fond of you.

That's good!

What did you say your name was? Guillotine?

Guillotine de Mephisto.

But given your prestigious position as Timi de Vista's aide, I will permit you, and only you, to call me by Guillotine.

Okay, Guillotine.

Then I'll leave this important task to you.

All of us have been acting as Timi's aides for over a century now.

So today, we decided to take a day off.

I see.

A vacation that has been long deserved.

Very much so.

We were hoping to leave Timi and the rest of the shelter under your care for the day.

Are you sure I'm the right person for this?

Not only are you the right person, Guillotine,

you're the only person meant to handle this assignment. We need you.

...!

I understand.

I will see to it that this place is safeguarded thoroughly

and kept from the Big O's prying eyes.

Thank you.

Here, let me show you where the food is.

If I were to guess,

I'd say it's 'cause she's treating her like one of the animals under her care.

There's a real iron-clad pecking order between the animals, so you've gotta be careful with how you talk to each of them.

This is the first time I've heard her use that specific tone.

At any rate, it seems that Leona has the situation under control.

Yeah,

Leona is amazing.

All right, I've filled Guillotine in about what needs to be done.

What do you say we go and enjoy ourselves?

Sounds good!

My only question is...

what exactly do we have planned?

Er...

Um...

Okay, let's each say what we want to do.

Biscuit, you go first.

Me?

I-I haven't really given it much thought.

Maybe go for a walk and throw the ball around?

Isn't that what you do pretty much every day?

Well, yeah, but it's what I enjoy...

What about you, Nero?

What about climbing somewhere high up and taking a nap?

Or, meow, catching a toy?

Oh boy...

Each of us prefers vastly different things.

Um...

What about you, Leona?

Me?

Actually, I haven't really thought much about it myself.

How about we go for a walk, toss the ball around, and then find somewhere high up to take a nap?

Meow.

I don't want to take a walk or play with a ball.

And I'm scared of heights...

Oh dear... what should we do?

I appreciate the offer, Zoo Keeper,

but we've already inconvenienced you enough.

True, and that'd be a real shame since we so rarely get time off...

Hmm...

Then, if it's okay with you, would you be willing to hang out with us?

We've never really spent much time together casually as a group.

Great!

Thanks for the help, meow.

The Shopping Mall?

Did you have something you wanted to buy?

We're not overly materialistic though, and there's nothing in particular that we need.

Meow.

I'm already bored.

Hmm?

Whoa, check it out!

This is a top-of-the-line squeaky toy that produces a sound that dogs love.

And here!

This is a wind-up toy that can reach top speeds of 35km/h! I'd have a blast chasing after this!

Holy moly, they've even got a snuffle mat! And an extra large one at that!

And cardboard boxes that you can adjust for different body sizes!

I didn't realize

the mall sold pet supplies.

A lot of people own robot dogs and cats now.

They even grow larger with the passing of time.

Quite a few people have taken to feeding stray animals as well.

Most people only do it for a little while, mainly to make themselves feel better,

but a whole lot of people do it because they truly care.

So that's why they opened a store like this...

...

R-really?!

Wow! Thank you!

Thanks, meow.

What are you gonna choose, Nero?

It's a tough decision.

Oooh, there's even more stuff in the back.

Let's go check it out!

Well,

since it's still pretty cold outside, I should probably get something warm for the animals.

I wonder if they have things in their size?

Trainer!

It was tough narrowing it down, but I ended up going with the snuffle mat.

I went with a box.

Leona, what is all that stuff you're carrying?

They've got outfits in 10XL here,

so I got ones for everyone:

Timi, Teddy, Gray, Ruby...

I know!

I spoke with one of the employees,

and it turns out a lot of people are raising bigger-sized dogs as either pets or guard dogs.

I'm sure they'll love these.

Actually, maybe I should have bought something for them instead of myself.

Yeah...

Oh no, don't worry about it.

You two have been busting your backs working at the shelter,

and besides, this is the first time I've bought clothes for them anyway.

I think this is the first time I've seen clothes that could potentially fit them.

All right then, let's go pay.

Welcome.

Should I ring up everything on one bill?

No, I'll pay separately.

No, I insist.

I want to pay.

... I want to do something for them myself.

Hmm? Nothing.

It wouldn't be right for me to pick out so many clothes and then ask you to pay for them.

Maybe next time, okay?

Thanks a bunch, Trainer!

I'll put this to good use.

Thanks, meow.

I'll let the other cats borrow this toy every once in a while.

How do you think things are going at the shelter?

I'm sure Guillotine has everything under control, right?

I'm a little worried myself.

Cats are sensitive animals, after all.

I'm sure they're all fine.

They're a solid bunch.

I guess you're right.

I just hope they don't cause any trouble...

Yikes!

Guess all that shopping took a lot outta me.

I'm a bit hungry, hehe.

Should we go eat?

There's a restaurant I've been wanting to try.

It's on me.

Great!

Sounds good.

Let's go.

Oh my gosh, Royal Fine Dining?!

This is one of the most famous restaurants on Royal Road!

It's supposed to cost a fortune!

Meow.

You think they've got canned tuna or treats?

Er...

I'm not sure about that.

But they do have plenty of yummy options on the menu.

I've seen this place on TV dozens of times,

but I never thought I'd ever actually come here.

It's fine.

I'm the one who wanted to come here.

I want to treat you all to a good meal,

so let's head inside.

Welcome.

May I ask if you have a reservation?

All right then, we still have some tables available. Right this way, please.

Man, these chairs are as soft as a cloud!

I could fall asleep on this in no time, meow.

I'll get your menus for you.

Dang, look at all these options.

Select chicken soup?

*Sluuurp*

Salmon steak with anchovy powder and carrot sauce?

*Sluuurp*

I'm gonna get the organic steak.

What about you, Trainer?

Good choice!

Are you ready to order?

We'll have one chicken soup, a salmon steak, the house special,

and an organic steak, rare.

And can I also order 30 packages of the steak, uncooked?

We can certainly arrange that.

Should I pack them frozen?

If you would, please.

I'll have that all out for you right away.

Leona...

Why in the world are you ordering so much meat?

For the fellas!

I feel like I've been a bit strict with them,

so I want to get them a small gift as an apology.

Wow!

You're really going all in with the gifts, aren't you?

First the outfits, and now steak.

I'm sure they'll get a kick out of it.

Hehe.

I certainly hope so.

Ugh, so full...

That was absolutely scrumptious,

and I wouldn't say that flippantly.

I certainly did, not least of all because I was with good company.

How about we head back to see how Guillotine is doing?

All right!

It was nice having some time off,

but I've been worrying nonstop about how they're doing.

Me too.

But before we go back,

I wanted to ask you something:

What inspired you to arrange all this?

??

It's just that we've never had a chance to rest properly since the shelter opened,

and the higher-ups were suggesting that we take some time to relax...

I know that.

But we all knew why we couldn't afford to rest.

We have a sacred duty to protect the animals in that shelter. Their lives are precious, and it's up to us to protect them.

This isn't something that we can pawn off onto others. It's something that we must do ourselves.

Even when the shelter has been shut down in the past, we stayed by the animals' side so they wouldn't get stressed.

...

Yet now, here we are, leaving them in the care of someone we don't even know.

What's going on, Leona?

I should have known you'd see through me, Nero.

Okay...

The reason I brought us all out here today,

is because I wanted to test something out.

Test what out?

...

If the animals would be okay without us.

... And if we'd be okay without the animals.

Wha... Why would you even say such a thing?

The shelter isn't closing for good, is it?

No, it's not.

But the complaints keep coming in,

and we've been getting more official warnings than usual. Not to mention the closings.

I'm not worried so much about the dogs and cats, who I'm sure will be fine.

It's the animals I'm responsible for which concern me.

I don't have any idea when something like this will happen again, so I wanted to see how we'd fare without each other.

So, with that being said,

how was it for you two?

Hmm...

I couldn't quite get them out of my mind, and was worried about them constantly, but...

it was honestly pretty all right.

Only because I'm confident that they're doing okay.

I'm okay too, meow.

I was actually more worried about how the animals would treat Guillotine.

How about you?

I...

I'm okay too.

All our furry friends are kind-hearted souls.

...

All this talk makes me want to see them even more.

Yeah,

let's head back.

How come it's so dark in here?

Who turned off the lights?

Where was that light switch again...?

Growl...!

Not you again! More lackeys sent by the Big O, are you?

How many times do I have to tell you that you're looking in the wrong spot.

Guillotine.

It's us.

Oh!

About time you showed up.

Is anyone hurt?

You didn't have a run-in with those Big O thugs, did you?

Huh?

We didn't run into anyone.

Phew, that's a relief.

How was your day with the animals?

Was it okay?

It went fine.

I did my best to uphold my end of the bargain.

However,

it seems that the Big O caught wind of the fact the animals' regular aides were absent.

Some mysterious force attacked us, one intent on usurping Timi de Vista's throne.

...!

What?

Didn't I just state it plainly? Timi de Vista...

Stop babbling and start making sense!

Er...

Some protestors came in intent on sending what they deemed "dangerous beasts" back up to the surface.

All their yelling started to freak me out, so I turned off the lights and pretended like no one was here.

After a while, an official notice was issued which extended the closure of the shelter for an additional week.

...!

... Meow.

...

Is that so?

You must have been quite alarmed. We appreciate what you did for us.

It's all right.

I knew this was potentially going to be part of the mission.

Heh, well good.

Did the animals get agitated?

They seemed a bit startled by all the loud noises at first,

but I managed to calm them down.

I don't have time to explain it in detail, but there is this power sealed within me.

I used kotodama, which calmed everyone down and caused them to fall asleep a little while ago.

Kotodama? Could you be more precise?

Y'know,

Coochi coochi coo. Something like that.

...

Uh-huh.

Anyway, thanks for your help today.

No problem.

After all, our destinies are intertwined.

Anyway, it's already dark,

so I should be on my way.

If you ever need me, turn your head towards the sky and shout my full name.

I will.

Thanks, Guillotine. Take care.

Thanks, meow.

Closed for another week?

We've never had the shelter closed for this long...

True.

...

First off, let's double-check if the animals are safe and sleeping like Guillotine claims.

Good call.

Okay.

Yes.

Ever since I started taking care of big animals, I knew a day like this would come.

Still, now that it's actually come to pass, I'm a bit shocked.

What do you think,

Zoo Keeper?

Do you think the animals we're raising here are wild beasts?

Really?

May I ask why you feel that way?

I see.

May I ask why you feel that way?

... I see.

...

Thank you. My head isn't swimming quite as much now.

Oh, and thank you for spending time with us today.

You all look pretty calm to me.

I knew you all were big softies.

...

But I just don't know.

Am I holding you here to protect you, or is that just an excuse?

What should I do?

What can I do...

to make you happy...

*Sigh*

The dogs are all sawing logs.

Guillotine must have given them quite the workout playing with them.

I'll have to thank her the next time I see her.

The cats are fast asleep as well.

Good.

The big fellas are sleeping soundly too.

...

All right, then.

Biscuit, Nero.

Yes?

Meow?

Let's pack.

Huh?

But why?

Is the shelter closing for good?!

Don't be silly.

If the shelter has to stay closed for another week,

that's sure to stress out all the animals.

It'll be even worse for the big guys. They're confined in those cramped cages, whereas the cats and dogs can at least come out to play.

So...

I want to take them somewhere else.

Oh? Just the big animals?

Is there any place we can even take them?

Of course there is.

Somewhere with more space than you can imagine.

A place where they can run and play as much as they want.

Where they'll still be safe.

...!

Don't tell me...

Are you going to the surface?

That's right.

In a way, this is a great opportunity.

Even if we expanded the shelter, there wouldn't be enough room for these guys.

Now, I would never force you to do something you're not comfortable with, so neither of you has to come if you don't want to.

I am planning to ask the Zoo Keeper to accompany me, regardless.

B-but...

...

I'll stay here.

We can't have all of us going up and leaving the shelter unattended.

Guillotine did a fine job, but I wouldn't want to leave this place under anyone else's care for a full week.

Fair enough.

What about you, Biscuit?

I... I...

...

I'll go with you!

You and Trainer may have a hard time taking care of all these animals, so I'll lend a hand.

I'm touched to hear you say that,

but haven't you always been scared of my animals?

Are you sure about this?

That... is very true,

but I've got to overcome that fear sooner or later.

All right, then.

Let's rest for today, and we'll start putting everything into motion tomorrow.

Got it!

Okay.

Also, Leona...

Yes?

Although I know it may not have ended well,

I just wanted to say that I had a fun time today.

Me too, meow.

That salmon steak was divine.

Ha, I'm glad to hear that.

I'm grateful to you both for coming.

Sleep tight, and see you tomorrow.

So, that's the situation.

Can you come up to the surface with us?

...?

You're hesitant about us taking the endangered animals along,

aren't you?

How about this?

If something happens, I'll take full responsibility.

Could you at least bring it up with your superiors?

To keep the animals cooped up in that shelter for a week

would constitute animal abuse.

I can't do that to them.

You will?

Thank you.

I'll go back and start packing.

I have a lot to prepare.

I hope to hear good news from you.

Non!

C'est impossible.

The shelter is jointly operated with the animal rights l'organisation.

I would not be able to d'approuver such an action all on my own.

Honnêtement, I did feel that one week was a tad exagéré.

However, I felt it might be a good opportunity for the ladies to have a rest.

Quoi? Whatever are you talking about?

I was told les animaux would be cared for in the meantime.

Something smells awfully fishy about this.

By the way,

what is la raison précise for you wanting to take these animaux up to the surface?

Really?

Hummm...

Leona is such a kind soul.

She généralement desires nothing for herself,

but when she puts her mind to something, nothing can sway her.

She has the heart of a lion, that girl.

And if this is a request from her...

Humm...

Will you be taking all les animaux?

...

Very well. Let me speak with the animal rights l'organisation.

There will be certaines conditions, though.

Every animal that goes up must come back safely,

and the same applies to you all.

Understand?

Did you pack the clothes and all that meat you bought at the mall?

I did.

It's a bit chilly up on the surface,

and it won't be easy finding food.

Aren't we packing a bit heavy for a one-day trip?

We're also bringing a comical amount of water and toys.

And why in the world are you taking this shovel?

If you dig a hole and fill it with mud, the animals will enjoy playing in it.

No kidding?

But... it'll be a real pain washing them once we come back.

Well... I'll do my best, anyhow.

I knew I could count on your support, Biscuit.

I appreciate the gesture,

but the rain is sure to wash them off just fine.

So you don't need to worry about it.

Meow.

Is Scoops coming?

*Sniff sniff*

He must be. I can smell him.

Do you think he got the approval?

Judging by how quickly he's approaching, I'd say yes.

Let's give him a warm welcome, shall we?

All right!

Meow.

So,

Mustang ordered us all to come back safe?

Haha,

that sounds like the boss, all right.

Always stating the obvious.

Well, is everyone ready to head up?

No worries, I already prepared everything for you.

All you've got to do is come with us.

We're only staying for a day, so there wasn't much to pack anyway.

No, one day is just right.

If we stayed any longer, our furry friends might be tempted not to come back.

That's true.

You could hardly blame them for not wanting to come back after having a chance to run wild in the open fields.

Is everyone ready?

I'll handle Timi.

Hmm, Teddy's a pretty big boy too, so I'll lead him with my other hand.

Biscuit, can I ask you to take care of Gray?

Gray is fairly similar to a dog, so it should be easier.

You mean the gray wolf?

Uh... sure!

I'll do my best!

As for you Commander, I'll entrust Ruby to you.

The eagle. Her red eyes are as bright and beautiful as rubies, hence the name.

*Screech screech*

First off, you'll want to wear these safety gloves.

I'll give you a whistle that you can blow on once in a while should you need to.

Don't worry though, these guys are all well-behaved.

All the smaller ones can be left in their cages,

and the rest of them are quite responsive to the call of the whistle, so we can just let them follow us.

There's an elevator near the shelter that allows us to bring animals found on the surface directly.

That's where we'll be heading.

Let's go.

Be safe.

If anything happens, contact me, meow.

Y-you wanna get going there,

Gray?

Ahwoooooooooo!!

Gah!

That's a pretty loud howl...

*Screech screech*

Phew...

It's a bit chilly up here, but it's still nice.

Mmm.

Grawl! Grawl!!

Haha,

I can see how excited you are to be up on the surface, Timi.

Don't worry, we're almost there.

There's a spacious meadow up ahead.

Adjacent to it is a large lake teeming with wildlife,

and there are also some rundown houses

that can be used for shelter.

It'll be the perfect spot for our animal friends

to frolic about while we relax.

*Screech screech*

Hehe,

looks like they already found her.

You'll find out

once we get there.

Tada! We're here.

Here you go, Timi.

Go run as much as you want!

Grauuuuuuuul!!

Ah...!

I'll unleash you to play too if you want, Gray. Just be careful!

Ahwooo!

That they do.

Wow...

Are you sure it's okay to let them roam around freely like this?

What if they don't respond to the whistle?

It'll be okay. I've got a backup plan in case that happens.

Okay.

Ah,

I'm sure she's around here somewhere...

There she is. On the tall tree to the right.

See her?

She is a bit far away.

Actually, Ruby is blind.

This is where we originally found her, collapsed.

By the time we brought her to the shelter for treatment, she had already lost her eyesight.

It was all we could do to keep her alive.

A while later, I was sent here on an assignment.

Ruby's family came up to me and asked where she was.

They had picked up her scent on me.

Aren't you downplaying it a bit?

You said they attacked you out of nowhere.

Yes, because they smelled their lost child on me.

They probably thought I had taken her away or killed her.

Once I explained, however, they said that as long as she was alive, they were okay.

They were just relieved that she was doing well.

After that, they moved their nest close to this area.

I think it was because they hoped that she would return.

So...

the reason Ruby flew away was...

She probably heard her family calling her.

She tries not to show it,

... but she misses her family.

Yes. Although Ruby can't see, her sense of hearing is exceptional.

She's ecstatic.

Bringing her back here was the right thing to do.

That's a fair point, but...

What if...

Hmm?

Um...

N-never mind.

??

Anyway, I'll set up the decoys.

Biscuit, Zoo Keeper, I'll leave you two to sort out the unpacking.

Got it!

There really isn't too much stuff, since we're only staying one night.

Ahwoooo!

Hmm?

Back already?

What's that you've got?

Oh, what a cool-looking branch!

The length, the width, and so round...

Where'd you find this?

Ahwoo! Ahwooo!

You want to play together?

Sure!

Um, Trainer, I...

Are you sure?

I'll be back soon!

The decoys are all set u...

Huh?

Where are Biscuit and Gray going?

Ha, I can see that!

I figured they would get along, and I was right.

I'm not sure if you picked up on it, but Gray was raised amongst dogs.

Yes.

I didn't have to train him or anything.

He's always been remarkably docile for a wolf.

Once he noticed that his howl startled Biscuit, he quieted down.

So cute.

However, wolves usually move in packs.

I'm sure it's been tough for Gray going it alone all this time.

All right, this time you throw it!

I'll catch it!

Howl!

Ahwooooooooo!

...!

Huh...?

Yes...

There must be a wolf pack nearby.

Hmm...

It should be okay.

Since we're with Gray.

I'd say it's getting about dinner time.

Sounds like they're coming.

I've prepared something special for the occasion.

Take a look!

Whoa! Vegetable soup with kibble?!

Don't worry, Zoo Keeper. I made something separate for you.

Ahwooo!

*Screech screech*

Did everyone have fun?

You all look so excited.

Here, let me get a bowl for you guys.

*Screech* *Screech*

Hmm?

You caught a fish?

Ahwoo! Ahwoo!

And you too, Gray?

You guys are amazing.

All right, I'll divvy up a little more to the others then.

Hold up,

where's Timi?

Oh,

right...

I wondered why there was an extra bowl.

Do you think he already ate?

Timi?

I don't think he could do much of anything on his own.

And more importantly,

how did you not notice that he was gone?

Haha.

This is the first group excursion that we've had,

so my mind is being pulled in all sorts of different directions.

I'll give the whistle another try.

...

...

Why isn't he coming?

Timi usually comes running the second you blow the whistle.

Should we spread out and look for him?

... Huh?

Spread out?

Yes!

We've got to find Timi!

The sun's already gone down,

and something bad could happen to him.

But...

Timi is a lion.

An apex predator.

There's no reason to be scared just because it's dark.

Besides, Raptures don't attack animals.

That's true, but...

Ah!

What am I thinking?

I... I think I'm just in shock because of Timi disappearing.

I'll go look for him.

Graaauul!

That's him!

Over here, Timi!

There you are,

Timi!

Graul, Graaauul!

Huh?

You got lost?

What kind of antics did you get up to?

Did you eat?

Graauul.

No?

Well, we've got plenty left, so dig in.

Phew...

Thank goodness everything's all right.

Hey, Trainer.

We just finished putting the animals to sleep,

so I was talking with Biscuit.

Not at all, have a seat.

You're always welcome.

Hmm...

About how Biscuit was afraid of me.

Hey!

Hehe, I can see where I'd be a bit intimidating,

what with me walking around with all those big animals and all.

I also make it out like I'm not afraid of anything.

At any rate,

I don't feel nearly as scared after this trip.

That's good to hear.

...

There is something

I'm curious about though.

What's that?

I wanted to ask earlier.

Ruby seems awfully happy being with her family,

so...

What if she doesn't want to go back to the shelter tomorrow?

Hmm...

What makes you think she won't want to go back?

Well...

Ruby seems happy enough at the shelter,

but I've never seen her this happy.

It'd be only natural for her to want to stay after reuniting with her family, don't you think?

Not only is she back with her family, but she's got all these wide-open spaces to roam around in.

I wouldn't blame her for preferring this place over the shelter.

Even Timi was late for dinner, and he's usually joined with you at the hip.

And then Gray...

...

It's just a thought, that's all.

It's their first time in a place where they can run around freely, so they must be a bit excited.

I'm sure if you ask them to come back, they will.

As they are all kind and gentle!

Yeah...

I think so too.

So there's no need to worry.

You have so much trust in them.

It's the least I can do.

Zzzzzz...

Ah.

Zoo Keeper...?

Er...

I didn't think you would wake up so early.

You caught me.

Hmmm...

I can't hide it now.

I guess I have no choice.

I was saying my final farewell to the animals.

...

I'm going to release all of them.

I've been thinking about it a lot.

The original idea behind taking these animals in and training them

was ostensibly to protect endangered species.

But don't you find it strange?

Humans are desperately attempting to return to the surface,

and here we are taking animals from the surface who are living perfectly normal lives and forcing them underground.

We've faced so much opposition because people consider them to be wild animals.

Feral beasts that are a danger to everyone around them.

But these animals under our care can't be called beasts.

They're far too docile, and wouldn't harm a fly.

So,

I've decided to let them all live freely, as they should.

No.

If anything, the shelter being shut down

made me realize that these animals couldn't live a full life down in the Ark.

So please,

don't try to persuade me or stop me.

I've already made my decision.

...What?

...

... Yes.

It won't be a problem.

If I want to see them, I can come here.

I'm sure they'll be pleased to see me again.

... Since they're so kind and gentle.

So that's it, everyone.

You're going back.

Back to the world where you were born and raised.

Of course, some of you might have a hard time adjusting,

but I know that

all of you want to stay here.

Ruby, your family is waiting here for you.

To tear you away from them wouldn't be right.

*Screech*

Gray, you heard that wolf pack inside the forest.

You deserve to go somewhere where you can meet your true family.

Ahwoooo...

... Grrr.

Timi.

When I first met you, I could fit you in the palm of my hand.

I used to be worried that you were so much gentler than the others,

but the truth is that you have the heart of a lion.

So be strong, and do what you know is right.

Be a leader for the others.

Isn't it beautiful?

I know this is the right thing to do. They were meant to be on the surface.

Enjoy your freedom, my friends.

Live free.

...

We should head back.

No.

If I keep looking, I might change my mind and chase after them.

After that whole speech, I bet I sound pretty stupid right now, don't I?

I can't help it.

I could keep myself together with the others...

but not Timi.

Of course.

How could I not know?

Even if we're apart for just a moment, I feel so empty inside.

...

Let's head back.

Before I try and go stop him.

... Yeah.

Biscuit, wake up.

It's time to go.

Hmm...?

Ah!

Did I oversleep?

No, Zoo Keeper and I woke up early, that's all.

Oh, okay...

I guess I stayed up too late last night.

Oh,

you guys have already packed?

Yeah, we just need to grab our things and go.

Aw jeez, now I really feel useless. I'm sorry.

I'll make it up to you guys. I'll take extra good care of the animals.

...?

Hey...

where is everyone?

...

Biscuit.

I decided to release them.

What?

You mean...

I'm sorry for not consulting you,

but I thought it was the right thing to do.

It was my own decision, and so I'll take full responsibility for the consequences.

... Even Timi?

Yes.

But Timi didn't seem like he wanted to stay up here.

The surface is the right place for an animal.

In the end, Timi chose that path too.

I wouldn't be so sure if I were you.

Huh?

Look behind you.

Wha...

Graauul!!

Timi?

But...

I saw you leave with the rest.

Graul! Graauul!

The place you should be...

is by my side?

Are you sure about this?

You may never have another chance

to come back here.

Graaauuul!!!

...!

... Right.

Those with the heart of a lion

have an unwavering determination and an indomitable spirit.

If that's your decision, I won't question it.

You and I can spend our lives together.

I promise to protect you

and make you never regret putting your faith in me.

My partner, forever and always.

Welcome back.

Hey.

Heya.

Meow.

It looks like you released everyone except for Timi.

!!

You knew?

How?

I'm not stupid.

First having us take that time off, then suddenly deciding to take all the big animals up to the surface?

It was obvious.

Oh...

I apologize for acting without consulting you.

I'll take full responsibility for whatever happens.

It's fine.

I knew all along and didn't say anything.

And it's not like Biscuit did much to stop you. We're just as culpable as you are.

*Gulp*

But...

You're our squad leader.

I knew that whatever decision you had come to, there must have been a good reason for it,

so I didn't mind.

Me neither!

Sure, I was a bit surprised, but I knew there was a reason.

You always have a reason for everything, Leona.

...

Thank you, everyone.

In the future, I'll discuss these things with you before acting.

The shelter is going to be a bit quiet for a while. Can you all handle that?

Actually, I prefer it.

If it gets to be too quiet, the dogs and I could liven it up for you all.

Ha, I might just take you up on that.

Now then,

what do you say we get back to normal, Timi?

Graul!!

Oh, and Zoo Keeper.

Thank you for all your support during this rough patch.

I had one condition.

For les animaux to come back safely.

And they did.

Each of them is where they should be.

...

And you're willing to assumer la responsabilité?

Of course.

To ensure their safety, I attached tracking chips to them.

Très bien.

I investigated les animaux rights l'organisation.

Most of the complaints you've been receiving about the big animaux at the shelter

were from animaux rights l'organisation.

So what are you saying?

They lied in order to try and expel les animaux from the Ark.

I also heard that you received orders to take a vacation. Is that true?

Yes.

It would appear their plan was to spirit the animals away when the shelter was unstaffed.

Fortunately, you all had désigné someone to look after the shelter in your stead, and the animals were kept safe.

When that part of their plan failed, they decided instead to extend the closure of the shelter.

So, with that in mind, I must ask you, Leona:

Did you know about all this when you hatched your scheme to release les animaux?

...

Whether I did or did not know is of no importance.

I would have acted the same regardless.

So you're saying that you acted on behalf of their happiness, and that's all?

Très bien, je comprends.

Officiellement, however, you acted alone and released numerous animals from the shelter à la surface sans autorisation.

The Ark has incurred a significant loss of property because of your actions,

and therefore, you must bear les conséquences.

I expected as much,

and am fully prepared to accept whatever punishment you have for me.

Your authorization to tend to animals will be révoquée.

No longer will you be able to work at the shelter or take care of Timi.

...?!

Boss.

Yes?

If my understanding is correct, I can regain that authorization simply by taking a test?

C'est correctement.

But then this can hardly be considered a punishment...

Non, that's not true.

You have already cut ties with most of your own animals.

I believe that is punishment enough, don't you?

Ah...

...

Well then, I will consider this matter closed as far as you are considérerai.

I will punish those responsible who attempted to abscond with les animaux.

... Thank you, Boss.

I'll leave the animals on the surface in your care.

Of course.

As you know...

I never give up on any animal that I have been responsible for.