82: An unusual surprise

Garrett's face lit up with excitement as he continued. "Oh, it's an absolute delight to finally meet you, my dear! I've heard so much about your... unique abilities." He chuckled to himself, clearly amused by some private joke.

Jodie, still in her wolf form, cocked her head to the side as her ears perked up in confusion. She let out a soft whine, trying to make sense of Garrett's words.

But he continued to speak, seemingly oblivious to her confusion. "I must say, I was impressed by your decision to finally face those vermins. I would've intervened much earlier, but I needed a fertile place to work with. And I think a part of you knew this was the right spot too. The place reeks of death. I perceived it from a mile away." He paused, his eyes sparkling with mirth. "Hmm, I suppose it's a bit difficult to converse in your current state."