Snatching up the critter by the scruff of their neck, you hold the squirming test subject aloft in front of you and give it a once-over. Though still clearly confused, the raccoon seems somewhat relieved that it hasn’t been toasted yet. That’s a start. First impressions aside, you remark, this lil’ squirt could have its uses… it cool if <span class="mu-i">you</span> take it?
“<span class="mu-i">Do so at YOUR OWN PERIL!</span>” Exclaims The Doc with a theatrical wave of his hand! “<span class="mu-i">Behind that cuddly exterior lies a TERRIBLE EVIL… and don’t get me started on the DISEASES WILD ANIMALS CARRY!</span>”
Great, you nod as you stuff your new pet into your pocket, you’ll take good care of her<span class="mu-i">OW!</span> Several sharp claws dig into your leg as <span class="mu-r">STANLEY</span> scrambles out of her new home, instead making herself comfortable on your shoulder with a haughty hiss! She uh… she <span class="mu-i">is</span> a girl, right? You get a gnawed ear in response. Coulda’ fooled you!
“You ain’t exactly feminine yourself, cupcake.” Ly remarks, earning a punch in your ribs for<span class="mu-s">OW! YOUR RIBS!</span> B-but, you sputter, doubled over in pain from your own attack, t-tomboys are <span class="mu-i">in</span> right now…
“<span class="mu-i">So BE IT…</span>” Huffs Dr. Devon as he stows his <span class="mu-g">SCIENTIFIC FLAMETHROWER</span> with a disappointed look in his yellow eyes. “<span class="mu-i">But KNOW THIS: YOU and THOSE YOU LOVE will be in DIRE PERIL if you fail to-</span>”
Devon’s impassioned speech is cut short by a trio of chimes from the rusty speaker nestled in a corner of the lab.
https://youtu.be/zXhb596PlgI“<span class="mu-s">DOCTOR DEVON TO THE ER. DOCTOR DEVON TO THE ER.</span>”
By the time you glance back to The Doc, he’s already disappeared! Wait, you sputter, what was he saying just now?!
“<span class="mu-i">A THOUSAND APOLOGIES, my dear,</span>” Devon croaks as he snaps on a pair of fresh gloves behind you, “<span class="mu-i">But I’m afraid I have my OWN battlefield to return to–as do YOU, I imagine!</span>”
Turning to face him, you manage to catch The Doc halfway through the lab door! “<span class="mu-i">Fret not, young Stanley–we in the medical field don’t need MAGICAL SERUMS to perform miracles! Stay vigilant–I’ll have a fresh batch of <span class="mu-g">BERRY TARTS</span> waiting for you when you return… you could say they’re… to DIE FOR!</span>”
Slipping through the door with a maniacal cackle, you and your new companion are left to bond for a few moments before The Doc’s pale face peeks through the portal once more.
“<span class="mu-i">Clean up and lock the door before you leave, would you, dear? I wouldn’t want to… ATTRACT ANTS!</span>” Leaving with another round of laughter, you’re finally left to your own devices… and things to do!
<span class="mu-b">WHERE TO NEXT?</span>
>CHECK THE MARKETPLACE! YOU’VE STILL GOT PEARLS, RIGHT?>HEAD TO THE ARENA! YOU COULD BLOW OFF SOME STEAM!>PICK UP DENISE FROM DETENTION! SHE’S GOT SOME ‘SPLAININ’ TO DO!>SWING BY YOUR PRIVATE BUNKER! YOUR FRIENDS BETTER NOT HAVE TRASHED THE POOL!>WRITE-IN! 