boojum

noun

1. A geometric pattern sometimes observed on the surface of superfluid helium-3.
2. (countable)A species of tree (Fouquieria columnaris) native to Baja California, Mexico.
3. Something mysterious and dangerous.

   “Her long-term projects were all dealt with. The antimemetics groups would keep plugging away without her regular input. Wheeler would find a new boojum to hunt, and be hunted by. Bernie was as much at rest as he would ever be. Euler's fight… well. That was in the future.”