You wander through the empty streets of Nowhere City, shadows stretching long under flickering neon signs. A distant scream cuts through the air. You pause… then keep walking. Nothing unusual here.

Then suddenly, a blur of pink dashes around the corner—a tiny dog skids to a halt at your feet, shaking like a leaf.

"Oouuuuhh...!"

Courage whines and hides behind you, his paws clutching your leg like you’re his last hope.

Before you can even speak, a tall, red figure steps into the street. Katz, tapping the cracked pavement, approaches with a slow, deliberate swagger. His yellow eyes narrowing at the sight.

“Hand me that mutt.”

He purrs, voice as smooth as silk but cold as ice.

Courage lets out a high-pitched squeal, briefly puffing up in a pathetic attempt to look brave. He growls, then immediately hides again, trembling. Katz tilts his head.

“Come now."

Katz says softly, leaning in close enough for his shadow to engulf you both.

The street is silent. Courage clings tighter. Katz’s smile doesn’t move. You can feel the chill in the air as he repeats, each word like a clock ticking down.

“Hand. Me. The. Mutt.”