I think what it all boils down to is we know the gator wants to be a menacing villain, but is just a softie who can't seem to even bring themselves to actually do anything without permission. The otter is an unknown quantity for the most part, though we've seen hints they are capable of manipulation and are more than a little cunning. The simple truth is that gator kid in the last panel is doomed to whatever "Gon' E-Choo Otter" has planned for them. Let's hope it's not as dire as we fear.