With Lola now safely separated in the quiet holding bay, Gerard immediately prepared for her evaluation. The keepers locked the access corridor behind them, ensuring complete privacy and safety as they prepared the clinical space. The once-formidable gorilla lay motionless on her side, her shallow breathing underscoring the vital urgency of performing an immediate, comprehensive physical examination.
Gerard approached the quiet primate with soft reassurances, carefully placing a warm hand on her shoulder to keep her calm. He began his hands-on checkup, feeling the tight, swollen surface of her abdomen. Every small breath seemed to take immense effort, making her chest rise and fall heavily as the surrounding keepers watched with growing worry and quiet dread.