The city was asleep, utterly unaware of the anomaly in the forest. The animals, however, knew immediately. A swirling, purple vortex scratched and tore its way through from another place. Most of the wildlife fled, but two cats approached cautiously, sniffed at the strange phenomenon that hung in the air, and left, unimpressed.
The next morning, word had spread about the unwelcome thing in the forest, and most of the city was in a panic. A panel of scientists held a meeting to discuss the course of action.
"What is it?"
"Is it dangerous?"
"Why is it here!?"
Hobolo, who was seated with the scientists, stood and addressed the crowd.
"As far as we know, this vortex could be very dangerous," he began. "We urge everyone to stay away from it. In fact, there's already been a potential disaster."
The crowd began to raise their voices in commotion.
"Yes! As you can see," continued Hobolo, pointing at a giant screen, "these cats were seen near the vortex last night. They must be located and exterminated immediately."
Moptop's heart stopped. They were Ellynnorr's cats. Hobolo must have sensed this.
"You!" he cried, pointing at Moptop. "You must kill them. It is your responsibility to the community. Thousands could die if these cats live."
A canister containing a poisonous mist was thrust into Moptop's hands.
***
"You bastard!" screamed Moptop. He seized Hobolo by the collar of his shirt and hurled him into the vortex. A few seconds passed, and then Hobolo reappeared with a loud "pop." Half of his body was now a tree, and he screamed in agony.
