Thundercats - A Cage With Gold Bars

The ship's pilot raised her head, hands smoothing back the white feathers from her face. Wide-eyed, she glanced around the nerve-center of her small transport vessel. The cockpit was still intact. Silently, her long, talon-tipped fingers played across the console. A spark snapped and her fist smashed down on the board. "Damn!"

Alle-Ma, of the planet Aviir, was ready to kill. That little twitter-brained sparrow, Tormi, would hang by his tail feathers. The stupid gyro-stats had shorted out again. As she worked the controls, lights danced and flickered, a gentle mechanical purr reactivating the controls. She gave a sigh of relief. Life was returning to the spacecraft's systems. Already the automat indicated that self-repair was commencing, and the malfunction was being corrected.

She rose, going to the back of the cockpit. A set of monitors flashed, showing that the cargo cages were still intact, and the vital-signs of the animals inside them were strong. The many exotic life-forms were still oblivious to their surroundings. Thank the Phoenix none of the animals had perished. She was close to her quota and losing any of these creatures would be a big set-back. After all, she had her reputation at stake. Not many could claim to be the most successful trapper in the galaxy. At least her galaxy.

Where in the universe was she? She'd been tracking a rare grolen peacock when the guidance system blew. "Nothing else to do. I might as well figure out were in the Peregrine I am and start plotting a course for home."

She returned to the command seat and set about her task. The pilot's log clicked on as data rolled across the sensor screen. "Gods--what back-galaxy dustball did I land on? Mutters spiral--Sol 3. Oxygen-nitrogen atmosphere. Looks like a typical worn-out planet....not much in the way of life forms. Pretty common species--ranging from mechanoids to primitive humanoids. Remnants of civilization...." Her keen eagle eyes stayed on the screen as the sensors swept the perimeter. The scope blipped a warning. Pulling the picture into tight focus, she scanned. Her mouth dropped open, her pulse rate rising a notch.

"Great Phoenix!"

The grid outlined two big felinoids. Excitement rose as she scanned closer. "I can't believe this. A leo and a tigris--but those species are rare--almost extinct." Extinct or not, these two were real. She jabbed a button. "Automat, delay departure."

Oppressive hot air rushed through the open roof of the Thundertank as it roared down on what could barely pass for a dirt road. A frustrated Cheetara had given up on the sensor scans. Interference was the only thing that registered. Beside her, Panthro worked the controls, guiding the armored vehicle at top speed, navigating as best as he possibly could through the dense forest.

Her worry increased as she searched the rapidly passing woods. No sign of Lion-O, Tygra or Snarf. The explosions had stopped, the glow of fire and columns of smoke had disappeared, but there was still no word from her fellow Thundercats. The sense of foreboding grew stronger and stronger. She leaned forward in the passenger seat, straining to see farther than her cat-sharp sight would allow. "Can't you make this thing go any faster?"

Panthro pushed levers that were already at maximum. He shook his head. "Throttle's wide open."

She sat back, fighting a panic that rose like a fever. Biting her knuckle, she stared through the windshield. The UFO had crashed, sending the monitor panels at Cat's Lair into a spin. At that instant, she had been struck by a premonition of danger. Her mate, Lion-O, and her long-time friends Tygra and Snarf were in that vicinity. They had to be all right, she told herself. They had to be. But her sixth sense screamed otherwise.

"Let me out," she said. "I can get to the crash site faster on foot."

"No way," Panthro said. "You're safer in the tank with me."

"I can take care of myself."

"Lion-O's orders."

She sat down, feeling as useless as the tracking scope in front of her.

He took the tank around a bend and again tried to get more speed from the machine. There was movement in the road up ahead. Something red and fuzzy loped down the dusty trail. She stood, gripping the edge of the windshield, shading her eyes as she squinted at the animal. Hope kindled as Cheetara pointed, "It's Snarf."

Panthro cut the tank's speed, rolling to a stop.

The little Snarf leaped into the front seat. "Prrrt! Boy," he panted. "Am I glad to see you!"

"Snarf, where's Lion-O and Tygra?" Cheetara asked urgently.

"I--don't know." Snarf swallowed, trying to catch his breath. "They left their fishing spot. I was following their trail. It leads in the direction of that UFO." He pointed at a thick colony of trees. "Straight that way."

"That does it," Cheetara said and started to get out of the tank.

Panthro grabbed her arm. "Sit down," he ordered. "I'm taking the direct route."

Grimly, she nodded, and Panthro backed up the Thundertank, kicking the drive into full speed ahead. The treads spun, leaving a cloud of dust and dirt as it shot forward. Panthro hit several buttons in rapid succession. The canopy closed, the front razor claws and steel teeth of the tank bared, tearing into the thick barrier of trees.

Jolted right and left, Cheetara hung onto Snarf, while trying to brace herself against the dash. The trees were thinning, changing to scrubby terrain. A high-pitched whine cut across the woods, transforming into a full blast engine roar that violently quaked the ground.

Panthro stopped the tank, keying the canopy to retract. "What in the shining seas of ThunDERa?" His eyes went to the sky as a huge shadow eclipsed the glaring sun.

Cheetara and Snarf looked up at a falcon-shaped space craft rising high into the blue atmosphere. Its burners flared, sending a maelstrom of exhaust, dirt and dust from the pit it had dug. Nose up, the vessel glided forward, climbing for outer space.

"I don't like this," Snarf whined.

"No," Cheetara whispered, her eyes following the rapidly retreating craft. Her sixth sense tingled in warning. The light of her bond-mate dimmed as the ship picked up speed, shooting farther and farther away. "Dear Jaga, no!" She was out and running for the crater wall.

"Cheetara!" Panthro yelled. "No!"

She scrambled up the crumbling dry earth, stopping at the crest, searching the blast area. There was no sign of life anywhere. Scent was obliterated by the stench of ozone and dissipating rocket exhaust. Rays of sunshine glimmered off a silver object on the opposite bank of the crater.

Panthro's heavy footfalls sounded behind her. "Dang blast it!" he growled when he caught up to her. "What in ThunDERa do you think you're doing?"

"Look, over there," she said, moving along the rim. In seconds, she reached the glowing object. She knelt, brushing the soft dirt away, and her heart nearly stopped. Panthro's shadow fell across her as she picked up the Sword of Omens.

"Dear Jaga," Panthro whispered.

"Look down there," Snarf said, pointing to the bottom of the pit.

Signs of a scuffle cut chaotic patterns in the soil. Something gold and shiny lay partially buried at the foot of the crater's wall. Sword in hand Cheetara started down the embankment, followed by Panthro and Snarf. Half walking, half sliding, they made it to the bottom.

"The claw shield," Panthro said as he pulled it from the soil.

Snarf peered around, then scampered off to the center of the field.

Cheetara's eye wouldn't leave the claw shield, her fears mounting as she stared at the golden object. "Lion-O," she whispered.

"And where's Tygra," Panthro said worriedly. "There's no sign he was here."

"Mmmmfff." Snarf loped toward them. In his mouth, he carried something cylindrical.

Panthro took it from him. "The bolo-whip." He examined the tether end. "The power cord was sheared off."

Cheetara grew cold. What she'd sensed at the sight of the space craft was true. "Whoever was here has Lion-O and Tygra."

"Yeah," Snarf said. "And this is how they got them." In his palm lay a shiny dart casing, a nasty needle glinting in the sunlight.

Cheetara paced the control center of Cat's Lair like a caged cat. Action was needed, not waiting. The more time that passed the colder the trail of that mysterious spaceship would grow. She stopped, staring at the monitor that displayed the surrounding terrain of Cat's Lair. "What's taking so long? Why doesn't she contact us?"

"The call went out to Mandora only minutes ago?" Bengali said softly. The white tiger swiveled away from the Braille board he was installing in the main controls. His blue eyes mirrored her concern. "I know it's easier said than done, but you must relax."

"Worry won't change what's happened," Pumyra said, laying a comforting hand on Cheetara's shoulder. "Panthro and Lynx-O were wise to contact Control Force Five. If we were to rush off without direction, we'd only waste more time."

"Either way, we're wasting time," Cheetara said. She hated this helpless feeling. Closing her eyes she felt for Lion-O's presence. His emotional tie was faint, telling her great distance now separated them. She forced herself to calm the growing anxiety. Worry would only waste precious energy. Running a hand through her spotted mane, she breathed deeply.

Bengali and Pumyra were beside her, offering what comfort they could. With and arm around her shoulder, Bengali said, "We will find them. Tygra and Lord Lion-O will be all right."

"I hope your prediction is true," she answered softly.

Pumyra gave her hand a gentle squeeze. "Bengali's right. We owe you our lives and we will do whatever it takes to bring them home safely."

Cheetara smiled sadly. She wished she could share their optimism. They were younger, newer members of the Thundercats' small group. They and their friend Lynx-O were survivors that had miraculously made it to Third Earth after the destruction of their home planet, ThunDERa. They had proven to be good, loyal friends.

"Look, here come the kittens," Pumyra said, pointing at the screen. "Maybe they have news."

On the screen, two figures zoomed in low on their spaceboards, skimming the air as if it were smooth water. The children glided in and dismounted, running up the front steps of the Lair.

The control room door slid aside, but instead of the Thunderkittens, it was Panthro and Lynx-O.

"The Feliner is ready," Panthro said.

"Any word yet?" Lynx-O asked. Even though blind, the lynx navigated unerringly to the scanner station on the right and sat down.

"I'm afraid not," Bengali said.

The door opened again, permitting Kit and Kat to enter. The excited pair scurried over to Cheetara, grabbing her hands.

"We talked to everyone we could," Kit said breathlessly.

"We didn't have any luck until we talked to the Berbils," Kat continued. "Robeir Bill said our description sounded like an Aviirian ship."

"Much like the Vultura mutant race," his sister said. "Story has it there's a prospector that has free reign in unclaimed sectors of space. It's rumored the Aviirian is also a poacher."

Cheetara's eyes widened in surprise. "Poacher?"

"A person who illegally takes or kills any life-form, sentient or not," Panthro said. "It usually pertains to endangered species."

"Like us." Numbly, she stared at the screen. "How could anyone be so barbaric?"

"Money talks," he said.

The communication circuit bleeped, and a husky female voice sounded from the speaker. "Thundercats, this is Mandora, Officer First Class of Control Force Five. Come in please."

Bengali worked the board. The screen crackled with a burst of static. A picture of a helmeted woman came into focus, a shiny visor obscuring her eyes. A long pony tail of thick blonde hair cascaded from the top of the helmet. "Come in Mandora," he responded. "This is Cat's Lair."

"Received your transmission. We have a match on your sensor picture." Mandora switched the screen and a schematic appeared with an overlay of what had to be a police file photo. "Astronautical numbers show this ship is registered to one Alle-Ma-a-Quila." The picture shifted, showing the image of woman, sharp green eyes set against snow white feathers, a crown of white plumage sweeping back from her angular face. "She's of the Buetanon race, a real bird of prey. She's registered as a prospector-explorer for her planet, Aviir. But we've got good reason to believe she does more than that. She is suspected of illegal hunting and trapping."

"You have good reason," Cheetara said, a angry edge to her voice, "and you haven't stopped her?"

Mandora's face came back on the screen. "In order to make an arrest, you need solid evidence."

"You want evidence, we may have it," Panthro said. "That ship landed here on Third Earth. Now Lion-O and Tygra are missing. Can you help us?"

Mandora remained silent a moment. "We can, but it'll be a whole galacto day before Control can send anyone out."

Cheetara stood straight. "A whole day?"

"And that would be to establish the fact that a crime has been committed," the officer said.

"Very well," Panthro said, cutting off Cheetara before she could utter another word. "We'll appreciate whatever assistance you can give us." He motioned for Bengali to sign off.

Cheetara glared at Panthro. "And what are we to do? Sit here and do nothing."

"I didn't say that." Arms crossed, Panthro leaned against the console. "We're gonna go after this bird lady."

"That's more like it," Cheetara said.

"But not you."

Shocked, Cheetara could only stare at her friend. "Wh-what? Why?"



A feeling of laziness hung in the humid air, draining ambition for even the most simple task. Afternoon shadows stretched from the huge trees along the riverbank, sending little relief from the heat. Lion-O, Lord of the Thundercats, leaned back against the trunk of an ancient water oak and let his fishing line do all the work. It wasn't often that peaceful moments occurred. When they did, they were more than appreciated. Fellow Thundercat noble Tygra lifted a crude pole and tossed a line into the flowing blue-green water. "I can't believe it," he said, securing the bamboo rod. "We actually have time to relax and enjoy ourselves." He joined Lion-O in the coolness of the shade and settled back against the tree. Hands behind his head, he closed his eyes. "I just hope it lasts." "Shh! Don't jinx our luck." Tygra's laugh was cut short. The leaves of the nearby underbrush rustled loudly, even though there was no breeze. The two cats looked at each other, then looked around the trunk of the tree. The tip of a thick red tail, with a yellow stripe running down its middle, peeked over the bushes like a periscope, then it proceeded to cut through the thick cover of green. "You spoke too soon," Lion-O muttered, as Snarf emerged from the foliage. "There you are," Snarf panted. "I've been looking all over for you guys." He scowled, the yellow fur on his back bristling. "We have work to do back at the Lair and you two run off and waste your time by fishing." "You don't like my meatfruit loaf?" Snarf asked indignantly. "Aww, Snarf, we're not wasting time," Lion-O said. "We thought we'd have something different for supper tonight."
Snarf sat up, crossing his short arms. "And what's wrong with what I had planned?" "Uh--nothing," he replied, looking at Tygra for help. Tygra gave a crooked smile and shrugged. "Oh, we thought trillfish sounded better than meatfruit loaf." That earned a frown from the four legged creature. Lion-O lowered his head as he rubbed the bridge of his nose and covertly said, "Now you've done it."
"No," Tygra said, getting an even angrier look from the Snarf. "Yes. No, that's not what I meant. What I'm trying to say is that having it four out of seven days a week gets--boring." "Oh, so it's boring." Nose and tail straight in the air, Snarf stalked off. "Well, see if I fix your trillfish. Ha! Boring, he says...." And he disappeared into the undergrowth. "No, Snarf. Wait!" "Oh, let him go," Lion-O said with a smile. "You'll only dig yourself deeper." "Yes," Tygra answered, giving a sidelong glance at his friend. "I noticed how much help I got from you. You were actually enjoying my predicament." Lion-O laughed. "If there's one thing I've learned, it's when not to argue with Snarf." He settled back against the rough bark of the trunk. "Don't let it bother you. By the time we get back to the Lair, he'll have cooled off." "You should know." Tygra checked his fishing pole, then he, too, leaned back. Quietly, the minutes passed with no bites. Lion-O closed his eyes, letting tension drain away in the soft rushing sound of the river. No crisis demanded his attention. Even Mumm-Ra and the mutants had been quiet, giving the Thundercats a much needed rest. In times like these, Third Earth was most beautiful. For once, everything was in harmony. A slender thread of worry wove through his reverie as he thought about his mate. Lately, Cheetara seemed--different. Subtle changes were taking place within her--changes he could sense through their empathic bond. Suspicion rose high in Lion-O's mind. Could it be? he thought. A sudden crash of thunder jolted the ground. Fur on end, he and a startled Tygra were wide awake, and on their feet. "What was that?" Tygra asked, searching the sky. "No storm clouds in sight." Lion-O shaded his eyes. There was nothing to be seen. Another boom rocked the ground, sending dead leaves cascading from the tree. A pinpoint of light flared, growing larger and larger against the blue sky. Tygra squinted up. "A meteor?" A black plume spiraled after the object as it twirled down from the heavens. "I don't think so," Lion-O said, an ominous feeling growing stronger as the thing grew brighter. He pulled the sword from the claw shield and held it up. "Sword of Omens, give me sight beyond sight." The Eye of ThunDERa, imbedded in the silver hilt, glowed. The blade vibrated, the mystic stone dilated, the ornate crossbars curling up he touched the sacred jewel to his forehead. A hazy picture formed in his mind. "It's a spaceship. Heading for the forest. It's going to crash." The roar of retros were drowned out as another sonic boom split the air. The bullet-shaped vessel was visible down its fin lines now. It listed, righting itself only to shift to the other side. Nose up, it zoomed overhead, sending down a furnace blast of air. The thing barely regained control as it dipped down. Trees twisted and broke, bursting into flame as it cut a large swath across the forest. For one horrifying moment, Lion-O and Tygra stood frozen. "Snarf!" Lion-O shouted. "He's in the forest," he said, and tore into the brush. "Lion-O! No! The fire--" Lion-O ran, dodging obstacles, plowing through the weeds and brush. Smoke curled from fallen trees, charred and broken branches blocking the path. He leapt, clearing the trunk of a large tree. The next thing he knew, something had slammed into him, knocking him to the ground. He struggled, twisting around. "Tygra! Let me go!" "For you to rush off and get killed?" he panted. "No way." "But Snarf--" "We don't know what route Snarf took." Tygra let go, and sat back. "We've got to keep a level head and think this through." Lion-O held up his hand, motioning for silence. After a beat, he said, "The forest--it's quiet." Tygra listened. "You're right." Perplexed, Lion-O studied his surroundings. The vessel had cut a clear path to the heart of the forest. The glow of fire and heat had died away, leaving only faint tendrils of smoke rising into the air. "To put it mildly--this is strange. Contact the Lair. Tell Cheetara we're going to investigate." "I'm trying," Tygra said, working the communicator switch on the handle of his bolo-whip. "All I'm getting is static." He tucked the weapon back in its place in his tunic. "It could be interference from that ship." "Then let's find out." Lion-O led the way down the newly cut trail. All the while they walked, he prayed that Snarf was safe, steeling himself for the worst. "Oh, so it's boring." Nose and tail straight in the air, Snarf stalked off. "Well, see if I fix your trillfish. Ha! Boring, he says...." And he disappeared into the undergrowth. "No, Snarf. Wait!" "Oh, let him go," Lion-O said with a smile. "You'll only dig yourself deeper." "Yes," Tygra answered, giving a sidelong glance at his friend. "I noticed how much help I got from you. You were actually enjoying my predicament." Lion-O laughed. "If there's one thing I've learned, it's when not to argue with Snarf." He settled back against the rough bark of the trunk. "Don't let it bother you. By the time we get back to the Lair, he'll have cooled off." "You should know." Tygra checked his fishing pole, then he, too, leaned back. Quietly, the minutes passed with no bites. Lion-O closed his eyes, letting tension drain away in the soft rushing sound of the river. No crisis demanded his attention. Even Mumm-Ra and the mutants had been quiet, giving the Thundercats a much needed rest. In times like these, Third Earth was most beautiful. For once, everything was in harmony. A slender thread of worry wove through his reverie as he thought about his mate. Lately, Cheetara seemed--different. Subtle changes were taking place within her--changes he could sense through their empathic bond. Suspicion rose high in Lion-O's mind. Could it be? he thought. A sudden crash of thunder jolted the ground. Fur on end, he and a startled Tygra were wide awake, and on their feet. "What was that?" Tygra asked, searching the sky. "No storm clouds in sight." Lion-O shaded his eyes. There was nothing to be seen. Another boom rocked the ground, sending dead leaves cascading from the tree. A pinpoint of light flared, growing larger and larger against the blue sky. Tygra squinted up. "A meteor?" A black plume spiraled after the object as it twirled down from the heavens. "I don't think so," Lion-O said, an ominous feeling growing stronger as the thing grew brighter. He pulled the sword from the claw shield and held it up. "Sword of Omens, give me sight beyond sight." The Eye of ThunDERa, imbedded in the silver hilt, glowed. The blade vibrated, the mystic stone dilated, the ornate crossbars curling up he touched the sacred jewel to his forehead. A hazy picture formed in his mind. "It's a spaceship. Heading for the forest. It's going to crash." The roar of retros were drowned out as another sonic boom split the air. The bullet-shaped vessel was visible down its fin lines now. It listed, righting itself only to shift to the other side. Nose up, it zoomed overhead, sending down a furnace blast of air. The thing barely regained control as it dipped down. Trees twisted and broke, bursting into flame as it cut a large swath across the forest. For one horrifying moment, Lion-O and Tygra stood frozen. "Snarf!" Lion-O shouted. "He's in the forest," he said, and tore into the brush. "Lion-O! No! The fire--" Lion-O ran, dodging obstacles, plowing through the weeds and brush. Smoke curled from fallen trees, charred and broken branches blocking the path. He leapt, clearing the trunk of a large tree. The next thing he knew, something had slammed into him, knocking him to the ground. He struggled, twisting around. "Tygra! Let me go!" "For you to rush off and get killed?" he panted. "No way." "But Snarf--" "We don't know what route Snarf took." Tygra let go, and sat back. "We've got to keep a level head and think this through." Lion-O held up his hand, motioning for silence. After a beat, he said, "The forest--it's quiet." Tygra listened. "You're right." Perplexed, Lion-O studied his surroundings. The vessel had cut a clear path to the heart of the forest. The glow of fire and heat had died away, leaving only faint tendrils of smoke rising into the air. "To put it mildly--this is strange. Contact the Lair. Tell Cheetara we're going to investigate." "I'm trying," Tygra said, working the communicator switch on the handle of his bolo-whip. "All I'm getting is static." He tucked the weapon back in its place in his tunic. "It could be interference from that ship." "Then let's find out." Lion-O led the way down the newly cut trail. All the while they walked, he prayed that Snarf was safe, steeling himself for the worst.
###
The ship's pilot raised her head, hands smoothing back the white feathers from her face. Wide-eyed, she glanced around the nerve-center of her small transport vessel. The cockpit was still intact. Silently, her long, talon-tipped fingers played across the console. A spark snapped and her fist smashed down on the board. "Damn!" Alle-Ma, of the planet Aviir, was ready to kill. That little twitter-brained sparrow, Tormi, would hang by his tail feathers. The stupid gyro-stats had shorted out again. As she worked the controls, lights danced and flickered, a gentle mechanical purr reactivating the controls. She gave a sigh of relief. Life was returning to the spacecraft's systems. Already the automat indicated that self-repair was commencing, and the malfunction was being corrected. She rose, going to the back of the cockpit. A set of monitors flashed, showing that the cargo cages were still intact, and the vital-signs of the animals inside them were strong. The many exotic life-forms were still oblivious to their surroundings. Thank the Phoenix none of the animals had perished. She was close to her quota and losing any of these creatures would be a big set-back. After all, she had her reputation at stake. Not many could claim to be the most successful trapper in the galaxy. At least her galaxy. Where in the universe was she? She'd been tracking a rare grolen peacock when the guidance system blew. "Nothing else to do. I might as well figure out were in the Peregrine I am and start plotting a course for home." She returned to the command seat and set about her task. The pilot's log clicked on as data rolled across the sensor screen. "Gods--what back-galaxy dustball did I land on? Mutters spiral--Sol 3. Oxygen-nitrogen atmosphere. Looks like a typical worn-out planet....not much in the way of life forms. Pretty common species--ranging from mechanoids to primitive humanoids. Remnants of civilization...." Her keen eagle eyes stayed on the screen as the sensors swept the perimeter. The scope blipped a warning. Pulling the picture into tight focus, she scanned. Her mouth dropped open, her pulse rate rising a notch. "Great Phoenix!" The grid outlined two big felinoids. Excitement rose as she scanned closer. "I can't believe this. A leo and a tigris--but those species are rare--almost extinct." Extinct or not, these two were real. She jabbed a button. "Automat, delay departure." A robotic voice droned in answer. "Delay time start. T-minus what value, mistress?" "Thirty re-syks." The machine's acknowledgment was ignored as she grabbed her gear, slinging a cartridge belt over her shoulder and strapping the tag kit to her narrow waist. Lastly, she pulled the short-barreled dart rifle from stowage and gave it a quick check before jamming a full cartridge into the chamber. Bolt back, the weapon hissed, air compression building to maximum. A click and the first sleep dart slipped into position. She grinned. This little side trip just earned her a bonus and Tormi forgiveness.
###
Crouched behind a thicket, Lion-O bent back the branches to peer at the streamlined spacecraft. It looked like a small transport vessel. The force of its landing had shattered trees and plowed a deep furrow in the ground. Moist earth formed a high mound around the craft. The guidance wings curved back, the rear fin struts jutting back like the tail, making the thing look like a bird sitting on a lopsided nest. "Amazing," he whispered. "It's intact." "I expected this ship to be spread from here to Castle Plundar," Tygra murmured. Carefully, he let the leafy branches back to their normal position. "I smell chemicals. Must have smothered the fire." "Yes, probably." Lion-O gazed out again. There was no sign of Snarf. Maybe he had taken the river route back to the Lair. The Sword would have growled a warning of danger if the little guy was in trouble. He relaxed a bit at that thought. Curiosity nagged at him as he looked at the spacecraft. "The crew might be injured. Maybe we should we go out and look?" "Not yet. Let's wait for the Thundertank to get here." "You got through to the Lair?" "No, but rest assured, Panthro and Cheetara saw it. They'll be here." A mechanical clank punctuated the calm. A low hum vibrated the air as bright light seeped from the seams of the opening hatch. A short gangway dropped to the ground and a tall, lean figure appeared in the hatchway. Lion-O's eyes narrowed when he saw it was a female descending the steps. She was dressed in a short tunic as black as the feathers that covered her arms and legs. A cap of short white plumage framed her sharp facial features. His attention turned to the wicked-looking weapon she carried, and the ammunition belt cutting across her bosom gave her an ominous aura. Piercing green eyes seemed to reach through the foliage, settling right where Lion-O and Tygra hid. The Sword of Omens growled, the eye glowing bright. The gun came up, and Lion-O shoved Tygra aside as the woman fired into the bushes. He rolled, yanking the sword from the claw shield and came to his feet. Tygra's bolo-whip lashed out, curling around himself and he disappeared. Cue taken, Lion-O counted to ten and charged from the cover. The Sword activated, the blade extending for battle. "Ho-ooo!" The hunter spun at his shout, the gun pointing directly at him and she fired. He leapt, dirt exploding beneath him as he vaulted to safety. The Sword of Omens glowed with power as he swung it, aiming at the birdwoman. A blast of blue energy shot forth as he concentrated every ounce of will into the counterattack. Surprise jolted him. The woman dodged the beam, throwing something at him. The egg shaped object detonated at his feet, sending a stinging red cloud of smoke into the air. Eyes watering, he held his breath, running for the ridge of the ship's crater. Dizziness washed over him and he stumbled, barely managing to keep going as he went up the incline. A keening laugh pierced his eardrums. The hunter was right behind him. His vision went double when he made it to the top of the mound. Balancing precariously, he fought the noxious dose of gas and won. Anger and determination sizzled as he swung the Sword, aiming down as she pointed the rifle up. Out of nowhere a cord wrapped around her waist, pulling taut. Tygra came visible, and yanked her off balance. She fell, rolling away from Lion-O. Rage twisted the birdwoman's face. A knife blade flashed, sparks flying from the severed tether. She came up, her finger pressing the trigger. Tygra somersaulted backwards as she swung the gun barrel high, letting a barrage cut across his path. He cried out, the damaged bolo-whip falling from his hand as he crashed to the ground. "Tygra!" Lion-O shouted. His friend struggled to stand, collapsing as the hunter fired another shot into him. He roared in pain, sprawling face down, lying still. Momentarily stunned, he gaped at the sight. Claws of fear curled around his heart. He had to call for help. Sword held high, Lion-O focused his mind. "Thunder!" Energy crackled around the silver blade. "Thunder!" The hunter spun, pointing the evil weapon at him. "Thunder!" She fired. "Thundercats--" Needle-sharp pain struck deep in his right thigh. "H-aaah!" Heat flashed through nerves and veins, rushing through his mind like fire. The world wobbled as he looked down at a silver dart embedded in his leg. His knees gave way, and he fell forward, strength leeching from his muscles. Sword still in hand, he struggled to raise it. It was too heavy to lift, and it dropped from his useless fingers. Thick grayness etched his vision as he lost balance and tumbled down the incline. Dirt and rock dust flew when his backside hit the crater bottom. He tried to move, tried to get up. He fought the drug that was slowly robbing him of his wits. A blurred wraith-like image came into view. He stared unblinking at the birdwoman who towered over him, studying him. He tried to speak, but his tongue was too thick and all he managed was a weak guttural growl. She smiled as she pointed the gun down, and pulled the trigger. He cried out as another dart drove into the flesh of his upper arm. His will drained away and the world glazed icy white.
###
Alle-Ma gazed down at the drugged cat, her smile broadening. She knelt beside her catch, checking his respiration rate and pupilary response. "You're a fighter. That's a sign of good health." She gave him a cursory assessment. "You're a young one. Damn good mask markings, and coat color. Magnificent physical development. I'd like to congratulate whoever your breeder is because they got the right combination of genes." She reached into the tag-kit, retrieving a small stapling device and inserted a chip. It took a moment to get through the thick red mane to the pointed ear. Placing the tip between the jaws of the tagger, she squeezed down. The cat growled as the chip implanted into the cartilage. "You couldn't have felt that. You're too drunk!" Puzzled, she studied the cat's blue body suit. The cat-head symbol on the belt bothered her. She'd seen that emblem somewhere, a long time ago. It didn't matter, she'd check it out later. She hurried over to the tiger, and rolled him onto his back. A glow of pride burned inside. The assessment went as expected. This catch was her best yet: a short white mane, symmetrical orange mask, thick orange fur, stripped with black--the markings were fabulous. If all went accordingly, he was a perfect match for Lorabi's cat. "You're older than your lion friend, eh?" She reached for another chip. "Well developed muscles, lean, but built like a barbed wire fence and just as tough, I'll bet." Her comm bracelet blipped. "Ten minutes to departure, mistress. Any further orders?" "Automat, ready holding cages 110 and 111. Make the force field double strength and prepare to transport on my signal." "Affirmative mistress." Alle-Ma repeated the tagging procedure and got the same growling response. Surprised, she knelt back. "You two are tough. I'd like to meet your master--but not right now." She touched the comm bracelet switch. "Automat?" "Ready." "Energize." A sparkling glow surrounded the cats and they faded into nothing. Alle-Ma turned, hurrying back to her ship. Time was growing short for her to get home. She ran up the gangway, stopping momentarily to look down on the patterns the struggle had left in the soil. By the Phoenix, there was nothing like the thrill of a good challenge, especially when she won. She keyed the door and the gangway retracted, the hatch seals sliding down as she headed for the cockpit.
###
Oppressive hot air rushed through the open roof of the Thundertank as it roared down on what could barely pass for a dirt road. A frustrated Cheetara had given up on the sensor scans. Interference was the only thing that registered. Beside her, Panthro worked the controls, guiding the armored vehicle at top speed, navigating as best as he possibly could through the dense forest. Her worry increased as she searched the rapidly passing woods. No sign of Lion-O, Tygra or Snarf. The explosions had stopped, the glow of fire and columns of smoke had disappeared, but there was still no word from her fellow Thundercats. The sense of foreboding grew stronger and stronger. She leaned forward in the passenger seat, straining to see farther than her cat-sharp sight would allow. "Can't you make this thing go any faster?" Panthro pushed levers that were already at maximum. He shook his head. "Throttle's wide open." She sat back, fighting a panic that rose like a fever. Biting her knuckle, she stared through the windshield. The UFO had crashed, sending the monitor panels at Cat's Lair into a spin. At that instant, she had been struck by a premonition of danger. Her mate, Lion-O, and her long-time friends Tygra and Snarf were in that vicinity. They had to be all right, she told herself. They had to be. But her sixth sense screamed otherwise. "Let me out," she said. "I can get to the crash site faster on foot." "No way," Panthro said. "You're safer in the tank with me." "I can take care of myself." "Lion-O's orders." She sat down, feeling as useless as the tracking scope in front of her. He took the tank around a bend and again tried to get more speed from the machine. There was movement in the road up ahead. Something red and fuzzy loped down the dusty trail. She stood, gripping the edge of the windshield, shading her eyes as she squinted at the animal. Hope kindled as Cheetara pointed, "It's Snarf." Panthro cut the tank's speed, rolling to a stop. The little Snarf leaped into the front seat. "Prrrt! Boy," he panted. "Am I glad to see you!" "Snarf, where's Lion-O and Tygra?" Cheetara asked urgently. "I--don't know." Snarf swallowed, trying to catch his breath. "They left their fishing spot. I was following their trail. It leads in the direction of that UFO." He pointed at a thick colony of trees. "Straight that way." "That does it," Cheetara said and started to get out of the tank. Panthro grabbed her arm. "Sit down," he ordered. "I'm taking the direct route." Grimly, she nodded, and Panthro backed up the Thundertank, kicking the drive into full speed ahead. The treads spun, leaving a cloud of dust and dirt as it shot forward. Panthro hit several buttons in rapid succession. The canopy closed, the front razor claws and steel teeth of the tank bared, tearing into the thick barrier of trees. Jolted right and left, Cheetara hung onto Snarf, while trying to brace herself against the dash. The trees were thinning, changing to scrubby terrain. A high-pitched whine cut across the woods, transforming into a full blast engine roar that violently quaked the ground. Panthro stopped the tank, keying the canopy to retract. "What in the shining seas of ThunDERa?" His eyes went to the sky as a huge shadow eclipsed the glaring sun. Cheetara and Snarf looked up at a falcon-shaped space craft rising high into the blue atmosphere. Its burners flared, sending a maelstrom of exhaust, dirt and dust from the pit it had dug. Nose up, the vessel glided forward, climbing for outer space. "I don't like this," Snarf whined. "No," Cheetara whispered, her eyes following the rapidly retreating craft. Her sixth sense tingled in warning. The light of her bond-mate dimmed as the ship picked up speed, shooting farther and farther away. "Dear Jaga, no!" She was out and running for the crater wall. "Cheetara!" Panthro yelled. "No!" She scrambled up the crumbling dry earth, stopping at the crest, searching the blast area. There was no sign of life anywhere. Scent was obliterated by the stench of ozone and dissipating rocket exhaust. Rays of sunshine glimmered off a silver object on the opposite bank of the crater. Panthro's heavy footfalls sounded behind her. "Dang blast it!" he growled when he caught up to her. "What in ThunDERa do you think you're doing?" "Look, over there," she said, moving along the rim. In seconds, she reached the glowing object. She knelt, brushing the soft dirt away, and her heart nearly stopped. Panthro's shadow fell across her as she picked up the Sword of Omens. "Dear Jaga," Panthro whispered. "Look down there," Snarf said, pointing to the bottom of the pit. Signs of a scuffle cut chaotic patterns in the soil. Something gold and shiny lay partially buried at the foot of the crater's wall. Sword in hand Cheetara started down the embankment, followed by Panthro and Snarf. Half walking, half sliding, they made it to the bottom. "The claw shield," Panthro said as he pulled it from the soil. Snarf peered around, then scampered off to the center of the field. Cheetara's eye wouldn't leave the claw shield, her fears mounting as she stared at the golden object. "Lion-O," she whispered. "And where's Tygra," Panthro said worriedly. "There's no sign he was here." "Mmmmfff." Snarf loped toward them. In his mouth, he carried something cylindrical. Panthro took it from him. "The bolo-whip." He examined the tether end. "The power cord was sheared off." Cheetara grew cold. What she'd sensed at the sight of the space craft was true. "Whoever was here has Lion-O and Tygra." "Yeah," Snarf said. "And this is how they got them." In his palm lay a shiny dart casing, a nasty needle glinting in the sunlight.
###
Alle Ma checked the instruments, keeping an eye on the guidance system indicator. So far, everything looked fine. Automat had come through again. Whatever the computer had jury-rigged, the gyro-stats was working. She pushed a combination of levers; velocity and altitude spectrographs climbed as the ship's nose pointed heavenward. Blue sky fuzzed over to the black vacuum of space. Keying a speaker, she said, "Automat, take over while I inspect the cargo." And she set the pilot controls. "Affirmative mistress," the monotone computer responded. "Information received and executed. Advisory--cargo specimen conditions vary from satisfactory to excellent. Confinement cages atmosphere kept at prescribed oxygen-nitrogen mixture infused with three percent meth-tranquiline. Do you wish telemetry evidence?" "Not necessary, Automat," Alle-Ma grinned. "I trust your capabilities. I just want to see for myself." She shook her head in amazement that a mechanical entity could be so Avian male. If the inflection weren't so mechanical, she'd swear the machine was a living thing. She rose from the pilot seat, heading for a door that automatically slid aside for her. She passed the galley and sleeping quarters and stopped at a hatch. A combination opened the portal and she stepped through to the cargo hold. The lights came up, revealing a menagerie of caged living things. Hands on her hips, she surveyed the haul. Very pleased, she made the rounds. It was all hers, to bargain and barter with the vendors who clamored for these creatures. Those merchants would then resell these animals as pets or breeding stock. She didn't care what they did with them. These were dumb beasts that evolution had kept inferior. All that mattered was the money they'd bring. The six-legged Pleocine of Oxnor blearily blinked its one eye at her as she looked through the clear force shield. A pair of cotton-mouthed cord snakes coiled lazily in their cage. The tripod, the scaled cayton and the Elysi-rabbits checked out fine. Next she checked the pair of Arietta birds who sat quietly on their perches, while underneath that cage, a colony creature slogged from one corner to another. Below that, the small dog-like Kreigs slept peacefully next to each other. Each section she checked was as Automat had said; the animals were healthy and sleeping. Lastly, she came to her prize catch of the day. Again Automat had taken care of everything. Restraints and quarantine fields were all in order and the security field was at double strength. She studied the prone lion on the sleeping platform. His over six-foot frame was excellent in proportion, and well developed. The thick red mane and strongly defined facial features made him a handsome cat. "Damned fine specimen," she murmured, her eyes tracing his body outline. The monitor on his cage displayed extraordinary vitals. Next she looked in the adjoining cage. The striped one lay on his back, chest rising and falling in the slow rhythm of drugged sleep. Not quite as tall as his companion, and a bit leaner, she noted, but his muscle tone was just as strongly developed. Plans for these two were already forming in her mind. These two would be money-makers that would ensure an early retirement. "Mistress?" The robotic voice cut through her daydreams. "Yes, what is it?" "Approaching target for warp entry. Do you wish to initiate or shall I?" "We'll do it together. Space windows are always tricky." She turned, giving one last glance at the lion. Breaking away, she headed for the cockpit, turning the lights low. Aviir was a space jump away. She couldn't wait to contact her old friend and compatriot, Lorabi. Her falcon feathers would spike when she saw what Alle-Ma was bringing home.
###
Cheetara paced the control center of Cat's Lair like a caged cat. Action was needed, not waiting. The more time that passed the colder the trail of that mysterious spaceship would grow. She stopped, staring at the monitor that displayed the surrounding terrain of Cat's Lair. "What's taking so long? Why doesn't she contact us?" "The call went out to Mandora only minutes ago?" Bengali said softly. The white tiger swiveled away from the Braille board he was installing in the main controls. His blue eyes mirrored her concern. "I know it's easier said than done, but you must relax." "Worry won't change what's happened," Pumyra said, laying a comforting hand on Cheetara's shoulder. "Panthro and Lynx-O were wise to contact Control Force Five. If we were to rush off without direction, we'd only waste more time." "Either way, we're wasting time," Cheetara said. She hated this helpless feeling. Closing her eyes she felt for Lion-O's presence. His emotional tie was faint, telling her great distance now separated them. She forced herself to calm the growing anxiety. Worry would only waste precious energy. Running a hand through her spotted mane, she breathed deeply. Bengali and Pumyra were beside her, offering what comfort they could. With and arm around her shoulder, Bengali said, "We will find them. Tygra and Lord Lion-O will be all right." "I hope your prediction is true," she answered softly. Pumyra gave her hand a gentle squeeze. "Bengali's right. We owe you our lives and we will do whatever it takes to bring them home safely." Cheetara smiled sadly. She wished she could share their optimism. They were younger, newer members of the Thundercats' small group. They and their friend Lynx-O were survivors that had miraculously made it to Third Earth after the destruction of their home planet, ThunDERa. They had proven to be good, loyal friends. "Look, here come the kittens," Pumyra said, pointing at the screen. "Maybe they have news." On the screen, two figures zoomed in low on their spaceboards, skimming the air as if it were smooth water. The children glided in and dismounted, running up the front steps of the Lair. The control room door slid aside, but instead of the Thunderkittens, it was Panthro and Lynx-O. "The Feliner is ready," Panthro said. "Any word yet?" Lynx-O asked. Even though blind, the lynx navigated unerringly to the scanner station on the right and sat down. "I'm afraid not," Bengali said. The door opened again, permitting Kit and Kat to enter. The excited pair scurried over to Cheetara, grabbing her hands. "We talked to everyone we could," Kit said breathlessly. "We didn't have any luck until we talked to the Berbils," Kat continued. "Robeir Bill said our description sounded like an Aviirian ship." "Much like the Vultura mutant race," his sister said. "Story has it there's a prospector that has free reign in unclaimed sectors of space. It's rumored the Aviirian is also a poacher." Cheetara's eyes widened in surprise. "Poacher?" "A person who illegally takes or kills any life-form, sentient or not," Panthro said. "It usually pertains to endangered species." "Like us." Numbly, she stared at the screen. "How could anyone be so barbaric?" "Money talks," he said. The communication circuit bleeped, and a husky female voice sounded from the speaker. "Thundercats, this is Mandora, Officer First Class of Control Force Five. Come in please." Bengali worked the board. The screen crackled with a burst of static. A picture of a helmeted woman came into focus, a shiny visor obscuring her eyes. A long pony tail of thick blonde hair cascaded from the top of the helmet. "Come in Mandora," he responded. "This is Cat's Lair." "Received your transmission. We have a match on your sensor picture." Mandora switched the screen and a schematic appeared with an overlay of what had to be a police file photo. "Astronautical numbers show this ship is registered to one Alle-Ma-a-Quila." The picture shifted, showing the image of woman, sharp green eyes set against snow white feathers, a crown of white plumage sweeping back from her angular face. "She's of the Buetanon race, a real bird of prey. She's registered as a prospector-explorer for her planet, Aviir. But we've got good reason to believe she does more than that. She is suspected of illegal hunting and trapping." "You have good reason," Cheetara said, a angry edge to her voice, "and you haven't stopped her?" Mandora's face came back on the screen. "In order to make an arrest, you need solid evidence." "You want evidence, we may have it," Panthro said. "That ship landed here on Third Earth. Now Lion-O and Tygra are missing. Can you help us?" Mandora remained silent a moment. "We can, but it'll be a whole galacto day before Control can send anyone out." Cheetara stood straight. "A whole day?" "And that would be to establish the fact that a crime has been committed," the officer said. "Very well," Panthro said, cutting off Cheetara before she could utter another word. "We'll appreciate whatever assistance you can give us." He motioned for Bengali to sign off. Cheetara glared at Panthro. "And what are we to do? Sit here and do nothing." "I didn't say that." Arms crossed, Panthro leaned against the console. "We're gonna go after this bird lady." "That's more like it," Cheetara said. "But not you." Shocked, Cheetara could only stare at her friend. "Wh-what? Why?"

Lynx-O spoke up. "A week ago, Lord Lion-O gave us specific orders that if anything were to happen to him, we were to take special care of you." The older cat's softer tone was almost eerie, as if he knew she harbored a secret. But that couldn't be. She'd told no one, not even Lion-O, of the changes taking place within her body. Regaining her composure, she said, "But that doesn't make sense. We've always taken care of each other equally without any specific orders. What reason did he give?"
"He did not say," Bengali answered. "No matter what his reasons, as Lord of the Thundercats, his order stands," Panthro said. "You're staying here." "No," Cheetara said, taking a defiant stance. "I am his mate. Wherever he is, I'll know before any of you will." "She does have an advantage," Lynx-O said. Panthro was as stern as a rock. He turned to Cheetara. "You would defy his wishes?" "In this instance, yes." There was a long pause of consideration. "Okay," he said. "You and Pumyra will accompany me. Let's do it Thundercats." "Thundercats, Ho!" they said in unison. Cheetara followed Panthro and Pumyra, leaving their friends to hold the fort. She prayed they would be safe until they returned. As they exited, she heard Lynx-O whisper a good luck wish as the doors shut.
###
Millions of stars glittered like colorful ice gems against black velvet. Cool air caressed Lion-O's face, feeling good, helping him fight a leaden drunkenness that saturated his mind and body. This couldn't be outer space. The presence of atmosphere proved that. He opened his eyes to mere slits, trying to see through a glare that blotted out what pinpoints of sight he possessed. The buzzing inside his ears slowly retreated. He moaned as normal sound amplified a groggy headache that throbbed with each heartbeat. He managed to roll over and struggled to a sitting position. His equilibrium pitched and yawed like a roller-coaster. He braced himself against the cold plasteel wall, trying to bring his reeling senses under control. Even with success, he felt like he was chasing flies. A couple of deep breaths cleared some of the haze and he squinted at his surroundings, the usual questions running through his mind. Aches and pains were making themselves known, especially the peculiar one at the tip of his right ear. He winced when his probing hit a small lump that was crusted with blood. Bits of memory flashed like a broken dream. There was a spaceship, and then a bird-like alien woman had appeared. The retort of a gun firing cracked across his recall. He rubbed his forehead, trying to think back to before he'd blacked out. There was a stinging pain. He glanced down. A bruised area on his right thigh was still very tender to the touch. A similar mark on his left arm ached worse than his leg. Lion-O studied the small tan cubicle. It had and empty, sterile smell to it and one wall was completely transparent from floor to ceiling, revealing what looked like a corridor. He rose from the hard bench-like platform, staggering for the opening and into a force field that sent him reeling backwards. The landing wasn't soft. His backside smarted, the pain bringing everything into focus. "What the--?" He scowled, staring through the invisible barrier. He froze, his gaze settling on the cell across the hall. Inside it, Tygra's still form lay prone on a raised platform. Lion-O stood, pressing against the force field as if it were glass. The tiger moved slightly and the sudden fears that crossed Lion-O's mind subsided. His friend was coming around. "Tygra? Can you hear me?" he called and pounded against the shielding. "Tygra?" Evidently he heard something, because he looked toward Lion-O. His apparent confusion cleared some and he rose to a wobbly stand. At least he appeared to be all right. Still shaky, Tygra made it to the barrier of his cage. Leaning against it, he managed to give the 'okay' signal. Lion-O relaxed a little. What now, Lion-O thought, as they looked at each other. He had no idea where he was or how much time had passed. He listened, seeking any clues to his surroundings. A muted thrum of power pulsed evenly through this place. That slow surging tempo could only come from star-drive engines. He glanced to his left hip. The sword and claw shield were gone. Faint memory of his fall down the embankment placed where he'd last held those weapons. A rising dread slowly crept up his middle. He concentrated, seeking the emotional spark that bound him to his mate. Cheetara's soul-light was like a weak flame. He tried to reach for her, opening his heart and mind to the force that united their souls. Only a faint pulse could be felt. Briefly, he closed his eyes. It was no use. She was too far away. He turned away from the barrier, facing the curved, seamless walls. "Sword of Omens," he said hoarsely. "Come to my hand." His outstretched hand waited, fingers spread as he sought the familiar sensation of mental contact with the mystic weapon. There was nothing, no glimmer, no thundering growl of power to answer his summons. Desperately, he concentrated harder and harder. Inklings of a distant answer trilled through his nerves. Wherever the sword was, the distance was too great. It could not reach him. The effort was useless and his arm dropped. A dire realization settled over him as he knew they were no longer on Third Earth. "Dear Jaga," he whispered. "What's happening to us?" A tapping at the force field turned him around. Like a nightmare image transferred to reality, there stood the birdwoman with another female of her kind. The second one's plumage was of a brown-gold hue, and her facial features resembled more like that of a falcon. Her round amber eyes were wide with surprise. "Magnificent, wouldn't you say, Lorabi?" the birdwoman asked smugly. "Beyond expectations," Lorabi replied. "And the tiger?" "Over here." With a sweeping gesture, she turned, directing her companion's attention to Tygra. Obviously perplexed, he looked back at them. Dumbfounded, Lion-O blinked at the pair. This was impossible. The aliens' words were as clear as if they spoke ThunDERian, but the lip movement did not match the syllables. The golden one's face lit with surprise. "Alle-Ma, this is wonderful. The markings are similar." She studied Tygra, then looked at Lion-O. With hesitation, she added, "They appear to already be domesticated." "I noticed that," Alle-Ma said, "but they were alone and I wasn't about to go looking for their master." Lorabi cast a side-long glance at Alle-Ma. The eagle shrugged. "Hey, they could be runaways for all I know. That makes them open game for claim." "What do you plan for these two? Are they for sale?" "I'm not sure," Alle-Ma said cryptically. "It depends on their tests and trainability. They are males, remember?" The two laughed with sarcastic mirth. Lion-O's astonishment mounted by the minute as he listened. "Actually, I think I'm going to keep them," Alle-Ma said. "They would be invaluable to my stock. Of course, we can discuss breeding arrangements and terms after their data is compiled." Lion-O's mouth dropped open. Tests? Trainability? Breeding!
"What place is this?" he demanded, slamming his fists so hard on the barrier it rang. The two females turned in surprise. Wide eyed, Lorabi whispered, "By the talons--he can speak." Alle-Ma went up to the barrier, frowning hard at Lion-O. "The thought patterns--they are coherent--not pictures, but words!" The eagle's eyes gleamed. "So the cat has a tongue after all. I thought he said something before I bagged him, but I wasn't sure."
"Well, you're sure now," Lion-O said angrily. "I demand--" "That'll be enough out of you, lion." Her tone took him by surprise. He glared at her through the screen. "My name is Lion-O, Lord of the Thundercats. You have no right to imprison me or my friend." With a haughty smirk, Alle-Ma leaned against the barrier. "Oh, really?" Fist clenched, Lion-O stepped back from the barrier, slowly bringing his anger under control. "Yes!" Apparently amused, Alle-Ma merely nodded and moved to the center of the corridor to stand next to Lorabi. "Cocky cat," she said. "A real wild one. She looked back at Lion-O, eyes narrowing as she scrutinized him. "I must say, your previous master did an excellent job in training you." "I have no master." Alle-Ma's feathered brows rose. "No master? That's even better. The legal claim of ownership won't be opposed." "No one owns me." "I hardly think I'm 'no one,'" she answered softly. "Such spirit," Lorabi said. "I wager ten to one he's untrainable." Alle's piercing green eyes never left Lion-O. "You're on. Automatt?" "Yes, mistress?" Lion-O looked around, trying to find out where the voice was coming from. It seemed to be all around. "Is everything ready?" she asked. "Quarantine lapsed. Readings show no disease or parasites. Green to proceed. Med-techs at the compound are apprised and awaiting arrival of the cargo to begin processing." Alle smiled wickedly, showing sharp, gleaming beak plates instead of teeth. "Okay, Thundercat, let's see what you're made of. Automatt, transport the big cats first. Destination--xenolab in the compound med-center." "At once, mistress," said the male computer voice. An off-key hum rose from somewhere, growing louder. Lion-O grimaced, hands going to head as he tried to locate the source. Suddenly, the air sizzled around him. He twisted, cringing as a shimmering glow blotted out sight. It wrapped around him, suffocating him. His strangled cry was cut off as the tan cage walls faded to nothingness.
###
The Feliner broke free from Third Earth's gravitational pull, easing into a high orbit. From the back compartment of the compact vessel, Cheetara watched the white glow of heat fade from the view port shields. The natural beauty of space became visible as they left the atmosphere. Even through the tinted protective shielding, the stars glowed like small flames burning into deep black fabric. Below them, white clouds marbled the atmosphere of the blue planet called Third Earth. Serenely, it nestled in its dark pocket of space. Home, she thought, a home she might not see again--like ThunDERa. From the pilot seat, Panthro gave the all-clear signal and Cheetara put the sensors on wide sweep. Nothing escaped her sight on the in-coming information screens. Red dots shifted against a pitch black screen as the starfield scope changed with the spacecraft's flight path. The overlay grid spread across the monitor, indicating section by section analysis. She leaned closer, hoping, praying for some sign. There was nothing, no hint of any space vehicles in the area, not even exhaust residue. With the loss of a day and a half, the trail had grown ice cold. Chin in hand, she stared out the port window, half listening to Panthro and Pumyra's communications with Cat's Lair. The conversation was gradually drowned out by her thoughts. She knew the risk she was taking. The life she carried was precious to her, but so were Lion-O and Tygra. She battled a wave of anxiety. Maybe she should've she told Lion-O he was going to be a father. Now, he might never know. Maybe it was better that she'd kept her secret. That way, if anything happened-- No! She snapped herself from a sinking despondency. There had to be some other way to track this space vessel. Nothing completely vanishes. She glanced at the Sword of Omens leaning against the bulkhead near her feet. Secure in the claw shield, it rested as if awaiting a summons from its master. Not even the power of sight beyond sight had helped, for it had revealed nothing. Whatever had transpired in those last minutes, had been veiled by an intense field of energy. Her mind latched onto that thought. It could have been radiation. In the front of the cockpit, co-pilot Pumyra readied the flight data. "Course?" "Keep holding," Cheetara replied, as she reset the sensor spectrographics to read for high-field radiation. With a push of a button, the computer immediately started gathering information. She leaned back and mentally crossed her fingers. "We're taking a wild stab by doing this," Panthro said. With one hand on the guidance grips, he leaned forward to adjust the throttle. "Mandora found no solid evidence this bird lady catnapped Lion-O and Tygra." "We told her what we saw," Cheetara answered hotly. "We told her what we found." "But we didn't actually see this birdwoman take them," Panthro said. "We have no solid evidence." "We're acting on an assumption," Pumyra added. "And we can't afford to guess wrong." "We know what we saw," Cheetara repeated tersely. "An Aviirian ship. And my intuition is too strong on this. This Alle-Ma has Lion-O and Tygra. I know it." "I won't argue that," Panthro replied, as he settled back in the pilot seat. "But Aviir is a long way from here. Our provisions are sufficient. I just hope our fuel cells have the range." Range, she thought. She didn't need a computer to tell the distance now separating her and her mate. She massaged the back of her neck, trying to ease the tension in her muscles. Gently, a dim tingling sensation flowed, brightening their diminished emotional bond. Her eyes widened as hope revived. Lion-O was reaching for her and she tried to answer back, but the feeling was fading, disintegrating like a fraying silk thread. "No," she murmured as the brief contact died down to a dull glimmer. Pumyra looked over the back of the copilot seat. "What is it? What did you sense?" "Lion-O. So far away." "It's like a fading memory," Panthro said solemnly, a distant look in his eyes. "I know. That's what Tygra and I have lived with ever since we left ThunDERa." "You are bonded?" Pumyra asked. Panthro gave a solemn nod. "My mate and Tygra's were on the last ship to leave ThunDERa. That ship never made the convoy. It vanished, taking our clans with it." "I'm sorry," Pumyra said. A bleep from the computer console captured Cheetara's attention. She blinked. "Panthro, I've picked up stream traces of antimatter residue." He switched the monitor to check the readings for himself. "This could be from anything--a ship or a meteor. According to Robeir Bill's astrochart, this course goes the opposite direction of Aviir. This could be a false trail." Cheetara's spirit dampened, as she knew Panthro was right. This course contradicted what little information they possessed. A flash of red made her look at the floor board. "By Jaga! The Sword of Omens--it's--it's moving!" The mystic blade quivered, trying to rise from the claw shield. The Eye of ThunDERa dilated, casting its brightness through the cabin. Cheetara reached down, hesitating to touch it, afraid she'd break the spell. Lion-O had called for it and it was trying to respond. Throwing caution aside, she gripped it, pulling it out. A soft shock thrilled through her body. The Sword of Omens sent wispy fingers of energy reaching to touch her soul. At contact, the mysterious force that was the Eye knew her secret. Like a compass, the blade pointed toward the stern, trying to show her the way to go. The direction matched the residue trail the sensors had revealed. "Set in the course," Panthro ordered as he turned back to the controls. "Already laid in," Pumyra said, looking up from her control panels. Panthro glanced back at Cheetara and solemnly nodded. "Then let's go for it." He pushed a series of buttons. The last switch he flipped reopened the communications channel. "Feliner to Cat's Lair. We've located the trail. Transmitting plotted course. We're leaving orbit." Lynxo's face appeared on the view screen. "Transmission received," he replied. "May your mission be successful. Please be careful." "We plan on it. Be sure you do the same. Feliner over and out." Panthro cut off the signal and pulled back a lever. The burners flared, easing the small craft away from Third Earth. Cheetara looked back at the retreating view of the shining blue planet. Fuel and provisions gave them a week to search. She prayed it was enough to find her mate, and her friend. Her gaze fell to the Sword now resting in her lap.
###
The third morning of captivity was no better than the first two. In the small square cell, Lion-O sat on his sleeping palette, staring as if his eyes could bore through the thick plasteel cage wall. He'd been poked, prodded and jabbed until even his whiskers hurt. The anger building inside slowly burned through his veins. By ThunDERa, no one had the right to inflict such indignities and humiliation on any living creature. He nor Tygra were property or livestock and were entitled to the inalienable rights of any sentient creature. He felt a hand settle gently upon his shoulder. He didn't need to look up as Tygra was the only one in the cell with him. He could feel his friend's concern, and try as Tygra might, he couldn't mask his own feelings of violation at the merciless hands of the Aviirian examiners. "I'm afraid this isn't the worst they'll do," Tygra said. "You can bet on it," Lion-O replied. "So help me, I swear this Alle-Ma will pay for this." "Revenge?" Tygra asked. "Vengeance rarely erases the wrong done." "Not revenge." Lion-O's felt his jaw set. He rose meeting his friend's solemn gaze. "Justice...it will be done. We're not the only ones who've been put through this. You heard them talk. There have been other ThunDERians through here." "I know," Tygra said somberly. "It seems we've discovered what happened to the missing convoy ship." The tone of Tygra's voice belied the worry he was trying to hide. "Dear Jaga," Lion-O whispered, as he remembered Tygra's mate had been aboard that vessel. Now he knew what fears his friend had been dealing with over the years since the exodus from ThunDERa. "Is Fierra here?" Grimly, Tygra shook his head and sat down on his bed, shoulders slumped as he stared at the bare concrete floor. "No. I never thought I'd be grateful not to find her. Lords of ThunDERa, I hope she was spared this. I--" He stopped speaking, his mouth drawing into to a thin line. After a moment of thought, he looked up. "I wonder how many of our countrymen are here. How many survived?" "I wish I knew," Lion-O said grimly, and went to the transparent screen. The feeling of helplessness attacked again as it had so many times during the past few days. The thoughts of his people being caged and treated like animals abhorred and angered him even more. "We've got to get out of here. Maybe--" "Be careful," Tygra said. He fingered the tag-chip imbedded in this right ear. "You never know what the walls will hear." Lion-O nodded, reminded that what he said could be understood by their captors. And then there was that blasted tag implanted in his ear, sending telemetry and tracking every move he made. The ingenious device proved too painful to be pulled off. The metal staples were like roots entrenched into the cartilage. Thank Jaga, it couldn't read thoughts as well. "Maybe--they'll leave us alone today." "I doubt it," Tygra answered. Arms crossed, Lion-O looked ceilingward. How could they get out of this predicament? The problems mounted with each idea he conjured. Memory of his anointment trials and his battle to overcome Tygra's power of illusion proved the most fruitful. He glanced at his comrade. He knew the toll it took, the drain of energy Tygra would incur to maintain an illusion. Now the trick was to tell his friend what he had in mind. He glanced around the stark cell. It was immaculate all the way down to the water trough. Even the flooring under the sleeping palettes was clean. He eyed the cold concrete, an idea forming. Lion-O motioned for Tygra to follow him to the trough. He stuck his hand in the icy water and knelt down, pressing a wet index finger on the smooth bare cement, spelling out a message--'illusions.' Tygra stiffened slightly, then took a deep breath and nodded. 'Vanish' Lion-O wrote, looking up as the water-scripted words evaporated. Tygra impassively studied the drying message, then followed suit by writing back--'escape--to where?' Lion-O shrugged. The forcefield's pitch abruptly shifted. Both rose, quickly facing the front of their cage. The dreaded sight of the orange-and-gray uniformed keepers made. Lion-O's stomach tighten. The black-feathered Anhingas, he'd learned from experience, were the cold and brutal orderlies of this establishment. The Aviirian's preferred to call it Animal Control. Large and strong as they were ugly, these male birds were hard to defy. "Okay, kitty-cats," the first one said in a grating voice. "Are you coming quietly or do we play our little game again today?" Softly, he tapped the shaft of a stun-prod in his palm as if marking time. Lion-O and Tygra said nothing. "What's this? Nothing to say?" the other keeper said in mock-surprise. "Damn it, Cohm, I think they're gonna disappoint us." As the two advanced, Lion-O and Tygra stepped back. Glancing at Tygra, he gave a slight nod. His friend's barely perceptible consent said he was ready. They split, backing into opposite corners. "Aw, pinecones," Cohm said. Pulling a snare rope from his belt, he faced Lion-O. "They're gonna be stubborn after all. Think they'd learn after all this time." "They're dumb animals. What do ya expect?" The second keeper had his snare out as well, and closed in on Tygra. "I still think they should be collared. It'd make our jobs easier." "And miss out on all this fun," Cohm answered with a nasty laugh. "R'ant, I'm surprised at you." Pressed into the corner, Lion-O's sights narrowed on the threatening Aviirian. Cautiously, Cohm drew closer and closer. Measuring each step the keeper took, he waited, muscles tensing as he anticipated Tygra's move. The snare's loop dropped open. Suddenly, Tygra vanished, leaving his keeper facing an empty corner. A pile-driver force plowed into the startled Anhinga, sending him sprawling. Lion-O launched into the distracted Cohm, bowling him backwards. The keeper's strength pitted against his as they grappled for control of the stun-prod. It yanked free into Lion-O's hand and he turned the live end on his tormentor. The Aviirian screeched, body twitching from the electrical shock. Again, he jabbed. The spasms stopped, and the keeper's eyes remained closed. Breathless, he leapt for the door. Tygra came visible, hurrying to join him at the cage entrance. The energy portal of the forcefield was closed. Both Thundercats put all their strength against it and still it did not move. "Blast!" Lion-O growled, looking back at the unconscious Aviirians with disgust. "They must have a remote--a key." "Hurry!" Tygra said. "We've got to find it before they regain consciousness." Back to the cage's center they went, searching the keepers' belts. They had to have one on them, Lion-O thought. Something! The keepers would always stop and stick something into a slot before entering the cage. That had to be the procedure to get out as well. Precious time was slipping away and he didn't want to be anywhere near these two when they woke up. "Here!" Tygra held up a plastic card, its number matching the one on their cage. They sprinted back to the door. Tygra slipped his arm through the gap between the wall and the field. His arm crooked around the corner and he blindly groped for the slot. Twisting around, he pressed closer against the wall, strain contorting his face as he reached up at an uncomfortable angle. Lion-O kept watch on the keepers. His pulse rose, knowing the tough birds wouldn't stay down long. At that moment, one of them softly moaned. Tygra gasped. "It's no use. I can't find it." Lion-O pressed against the invisible barrier, looking for the area Tygra needed. At this angle, only a metal ridge could be seen. "I'll try to direct you. Go higher." Eyes shut tight in concentration, Tygra reached again, guiding the plastic key up. "Up. More," Lion-O said, his eyes following Tygra's hand. The edge of the card scraped against the wall, hitting the silver-banded rim. "Good! Lift it over the ridge. There! Now over to the left a bit--more." He could feel the sweat dampening the back of his neck. "A little more. There! You should be dead center." "I can't feel anything--" Tygra said hoarsely. Trembling, he edged the small flat square around. "Nothing--just flat surface. We don't know how this works!" "Keep trying. The slot has to be in the middle. Drag the edge up and down. Feel for a groo--" Startling pain shot down Lion-O's spine as sharp taloned fingers gouged into the back of his neck, slamming him against the solid barrier. He cried out as the claws dug in, immobilizing him. Tygra's cry of pain echoed his, punctuated by the light clatter of the plastic card that hit the floor just outside the cage. Barely breathing, Lion-O hung there, the right side of his face pressed hard against the energy field. He was pinned, unable to move, unable to speak. Fear knotted his gut. The Anhinga pushed him harder against the barrier. He growled, low voice. "You just bought yourself a pack of trouble, kitty-boy." From the corner of his eye, Lion-O saw the Aviirian raise the stun-prod, the Anhinga made sure he could see it. With a flick of the grip's thumb control, a crackle of energy fired the baton's rounded tip to a wicked red. Slowly, the keeper leveled it at Lion-O's midriff. Lion-O shut his eyes tight, bracing himself.
###
Space was beautiful when observed under normal circumstances. Right now it was tedious scenery. Cheetara gazed away from the navi-screen, rubbing at her tired eyes. Two and a half solar days had passed and they were still following the trail. The Feliner's engines did not have the speed of the more powerful anti-matter driven craft. She felt useless. The screen before her kept track of the residual pattern, leaving her little else to do. Panthro and Pumyra kept busy with piloting the craft while trying to keep conversation and spirits up. Sometimes it worked, but the hungry monster of worry would always creep back inside her head. Her bond with Lion-O remained a faint glow, flaring briefly from time to time, which comforted, yet scared her. At least he was still alive, she thought. She could not read the emanations from her mate for he was still too far away. She took a deep breath. The Sword of Omens lay in her lap, the eye closed and silent. "Fuel at half," Pumyra said softly. "Estimating three more solar days before we have to tap the reserve cells." "At that point we'll have to turn back," Panthro said. He checked a monitor and growled softly. "Unless we find a way to conserve fuel, we won't reach Aviir. We'll make the hunter's belt, but we'll fall two days short of our target." "But using the reserve, we can reach Aviir," Pumyra said. "Yeah, we can, but we'll be dealing with a hostile race," he said. "They took two Thundercats. They'll certainly take three more." "Maybe not all Aviirians are like this Alle-Ma." Panthro glanced at the puma. "Maybe, but my gut tells me otherwise." He shook his head. "Nope. In order to insure a safety margin for returning home, we must head back as soon as we go on reserves." Cheetara grew cold at that statement, her gaze riveting on the passing star field. They were in the middle of nowhere in a short-range space cruiser. Her fingers caressed the ornate hilt. They had the direction, now they needed the power to travel the distance. Everything seemed to be going against them. The sleeping eye suddenly flared red, a warning growl reverberating through the cramped cabin. Cheetara's mouth dropped open as the sword's second sight flashed danger through her sixth sense. Dead ahead, twisting solar currents siphoned down as powerful as river rapids. Turbulence shook the tiny ship. All inside held on tight as the Feliner swayed to and fro. "Panthro! Veer off!" Cheetara gripped the console in front of her, trying to read the navi-screens. "There's some type of warp in front of us." "Too late," he said. Furiously, he tried to work the unresponsive controls. "It's got us. Velocity is increasing." "Heavy ion interference." Pumyra's fingers played across her board. "I can't compensate fast enough," she shouted. "Keep trying," Panthro yelled back. Cheetara managed to coax a response from the snowy monitor. A grid screen flashed, stabilizing long enough to map out the cause of the whirlpool effect. "Scan shows a nucleus--magnetic concentration--like a hole in space. We're being sucked toward it." Violent tremors rattled the small ship. The sword fell from Cheetara's lap, clanging on the deck. Metal creaked like rusty door hinges as stress points threatened to give way. "Hull temperature exceeding maximum," Pumyra said. "Our systems are overloading." "We've gotta pull back," Panthro said, doing all he could to turn the small craft. "The Feliner can't take this punishment." "We can't break free," Pumyra said, her fist slamming the useless board. "Field influx has us." "Can't fight it. We've gotta go with it. Forward thrust--full burn," Panthro ordered, pushing the engines to maximum. "No--" Cheetara yelled, as sudden forward thrust threw her back in her seat. The roar of the boosters mixed with the sizzling ion turbulence. Terror's hand gripped for her soul. The computer displays fizzed and crackled. What snatches of information she saw spelled doom. "Got to try--for a controlled entry." Sweat dampened the dark gray fur on Panthro's head. His powerful muscles strained as he pulled back on the guidance grips. Cheetara reached for the sword, grabbing it as the ship began to spiral. Black on white swirled as chaos tore through reality. Centrifugal force pressed her into her seat. She held on to the sword for dear life, no longer able to see or hear her companions. The power circuits erupted, electricity frying the panels, as screams and shouts were obliterated by a shrieking force pounding at the cruiser. In moments, space folded like a plastic cocoon. Cheetara's cry was smothered by the solid blackness they pierced.
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People crowded the mercantile plaza of the city of Istthr. Alle-Ma cut purposefully through the throng, heading for the Research Center. The jingle of coins inside leather kept rhythm to the tap of her boot heels as she strode across the cobbled walkway. The heavy pouch hanging from her tunic belt bounced with each step. She was so pleased she nearly preened. The 'haul' was completely successful. Everything had been sold and now her money was in the bank earning more interest. Household matters were in order and even Automat was getting an overdue major overhaul. She smiled, feeling the weight of her purse. This was only a small portion of her success and it was going to pay for the testing of her newest acquirements--the cats. The morning had gone very well. She and Lorabi had struck a deal concerning the tiger. As soon as the tests were concluded, they'd proceed as planned. As for the lion, she was going to speak to her mate about that tonight. She hadn't realized how much she'd missed Tayir. Three days of being home with him and their daughter was a rare enjoyment. Her daughter had grown considerably. Before long, Tarra would be a young woman. Time was a friend and it could also be an enemy. It was too late for any regrets. Alle-Ma had chosen her line of work and enjoyed it to the fullest. Life always contained sacrifices, some big and some not so big. All that mattered was to be a good provider. The spires of the city cut a jagged skyline against the mountains glowing emerald green in the morning sunlight. So incongruent was its serenity against the clatter and noise of the crowded mall. The shouts and cries of the buyers jammed around the auction block rose up over the din. Prime livestock brayed and nickered as the animals awaited their turn on the platform. Hopefuls crammed into the walkways, trying to get first pick of the fresh fruits and grain for barter or sale. Quickly, she passed another jammed alley, hearing the continuous call of the auctioneer laced with more shouts of frantic buyers. She laughed, thinking how much the people acted like the beasts they sought to buy. She hurried onward. Soon the slave traders would come out and the crowd situation would only intensify. Thank the sky-mother she didn't need to go there today. Being wealthy, she had all the servants she needed. The tall cylindrical building she sought came into view. Alle-Ma headed for it, hoping she wasn't too late to observe the final testing of the newest additions to her exotic collection. She smiled, remembering the young lion's bluff from two nights ago. This cocky cat could no more threaten her than a fly. Soon, he'd realize who was the master and who was the companion. And she knew just how to tame him. She entered the complex and in minutes was in the controller's booth. Strange, there wasn't a soul here. Where were the technicians and where was Kayj? She scratched her head, studying various monitors that displayed the different areas of the testing arenas. Everything was set and ready to go. Worry edged into her thoughts. Had something gone wrong? Two white clad technicians entered, merely nodding at Alle-Ma before taking their respective places at the monitor boards. Alle-Ma watched as they initiated the systems. She started to ask a question when a voice sounded outside of the booth. The door opened. Chart in hand, an obviously harassed young woman entered at a brisk pace. Her sharp hawk's anger glared in her amber eyes. "I don't care if you have to net him and throw him in that arena. Handle it! That's what you're being paid for," she said into a talkie. She stopped dead still, staring at Alle-Ma. "It's about time you showed up." "Kayj," Alle said. "Are there problems?" Kayj smoothed back her brown crest feathers and dropped the recorder on the counter. "Problems?" She scowled. "You damn well bet there's problems. Your cats attacked two of the orderlies this morning. It wasn't pretty. The stupid idiots are lucky to be alive." "The cats or the orderlies?" "Both!" "Look, the keepers know these are animals. Don't blame the cats for this. They're only following their instincts." "Yeah," Kayj said. "Luckily, no one got hurt." She picked up an transceiver, placing the plug in her ear. "Say, have you gotten the registration paperwork started on your--er--acquisitions?" "Of course. It's going through channels. But you know how government regulations tend to slow the wheels of progress." "Yeah, do I ever. Anyway, I had to ask." Kayj tapped in a code on the terminal keypad. The lighting in the booth dropped to semi-darkness. "Ready--set the recorders," she told the technicians. "A side on the lion--B side on the tiger." Alle-Ma looked at the chart Kayj had set down. "By the way--how are the cats doing?" "Surprisingly well. Only you would find creatures as obstinate as these. For males, they're smart. The tiger is a little easier to handle." She scrolled through some text on the screen. "Preliminaries are excellent. I think there's more to him than meets the eye." "And the lion?" "Excellent physical condition and a damned stubborn cuss," Kayj said. "It took some heavy persuading to get him moving through the maze." She checked the screen again. "But once we got him going, he figured it out in record time." "Then he gets the chameleon course next?" Alle asked. The researcher nodded and Alle-Ma smiled. "Good, I wanted to oversee that test anyway." "It's your show." Kayj gave the signal and the technicians set the monitors. The control booth darkened completely, the screen glare cutting brightly through the gloom. One group of screens displayed the empty corridors of the maze, another group displayed the entrance of the obstacle course. Telemetry graphs bounced to life as the doors in the respective areas opened. Alle's eyes narrowed when she saw the tiger enter the maze and calmly survey the paths open to him. The lion was roughly propelled into the obstacle arena. He spun, trying to reach the door before it closed. Alle scrutinized the scene. "Don't go easy on the boy. I want him pushed to the limits." Kayj's feathered brows rose. "Are you sure you want to do that?" "Positive. Let's see how tough he is. Set it at maximum." "But this is his first time. He'll most certainly fail." "I know." Alle-Ma knew the effects of defeat, the deflation of the ego and demoralizing of the spirit. That would be the first step of cutting this cat down to size. After that, the rest would be as easy as taking a breath.
###
Lion-O leaned against the cold hard door. Damn it, he was being forced to perform tricks like a circus animal. The bare cubicle that greeted him seemed innocent--too innocent. Like the maze, there was a false ring to it's seemingly benign appearance. He shuddered, remembering the tortuous traps and turns, mirrors and cul-de-sacs. By Jaga, this time he wasn't going to budge. In front of him a door slowly slid open, revealing a deep cavity of humid darkness. He could smell danger, fear prickling the fur along his spine. Something inhuman screeched and his eyes opened wide. A huge claw reached in, razor-spined edges clamping shut inches from his body. He leapt sideways, dodging a second attack. Split-second reflexes propelled him toward the thing attached to the claw. He twisted in mid-air, kicking out. It screamed as his heels hit hard between two glowing red eyes. The creature reeled as he rolled out of harm's way. Whatever the thing was, it retreated very quickly, leaving him alone. Lion-O said a silent thanks to Panthro for teaching him that defensive move. He crouched, waiting until his eyes adjusted to the low light. This place was damp and dirty smelling, like a swamp. Large serrated blades of sawgrass surrounded him, and the earth beneath him was soft and mucky. How in the twelve seas of ThunDERa could these people create such an environment inside a building? This couldn't be real. A wicked screech echoed, sounding very real. Whatever had attacked him had decided to come back. He could not sit still. Like it or not, he was in this. He had to play the Aviirian's game. On hands and knees, he crept as fast as he could, letting the thick, coarse sea of foliage cover him. The sharp-edged grass sliced like small knives across his arms, despite his protective fur. The beast's howl sounded closer. Getting on his feet, he shielded his face, and plowed through thick spiny grass, ignoring the biting superficial cuts now criss-crossing his hands and legs. He broke into a clearing, his feet sinking deep in the quicksand. The oozing black sand held fast, the suction relentlessly pulling him down. His boots had to be sacrificed in order to pull free. Scrambling back onto the bank, he sat staring at the deadly trap. Absently he itched at the black dirt that had worked down into his fur coat. This was a test? What kind of insane place was this? Getting on his knees, he looked around, trying to judge the size of the arena. There was nothing but blackness above him and dense vegetation all around. There were no clues to give him any sense of direction. Somewhere in this torture chamber, there had to be a safety post, a goal, like in the maze test. A deafening roar blasted hot fetid breath from behind. Lion-O yelped, springing for cover. Cold wet shock hit him as he landed in a narrow water- filled ditch. The brackish taste of sulfur choked him as he spit out a mouthful of the horrible liquid. He fought for balance, turning to see a huge dragon-like thing glare down. Its long slender neck arched, readying to strike at its prey. Sharp-fanged teeth graced a frothing mouth as the gray scaly nightmare zeroed in on Lion-O. The foul water churned as he scrambled backwards and dove into the brackishness. He kicked, swimming for his life, fighting the blinding sting of the murky water. The thing couldn't attack what it couldn't see. Each stroke propelling him further down the canal. He didn't care where it took him, as long as it took him away from that thing. Twisting, slimy ropes of aquatic grass clogged his underwater path. Lion-O pushed through it. The need for oxygen was beginning to be felt. Soon, he'd have to surface. The rubbery grass snared his legs and forward motion jerked to an abrupt stop. Tighter they wrapped, circling his body and arms, pulling him down. Precious air escaped from his nose and mouth as he floundered, fighting the tentacles of vegetation. His lungs screamed for air, sudden panic surging through his mind. In a burst of desperation, he grabbed one of the watery vines and pulled. It ripped free, sending swirling clouds of silt up from the canal bottom. The plants retracted, letting go and he shot upward. He broke the surface, sending water spraying as he gasped, dragging in deep breaths of air. With great effort he kicked for the bank. At last his feet touched bottom, his hands and knees dragging the muddy floor as he reached the shallows. His muscles ached with fatigue. He had to keep going, had to find the path out of this pseudo-swamp. The purpose of this insane test would have to remain a mystery. Surviving it was all that mattered now. Best to follow the edge and see where this ditch led, he thought. Lion-O rose, slogging through the knee deep water filled with reeds and tangled water-flora. Rocks littered the obscured floor of the ditch, stabbing at the pads of his bare feet. His ankle twisted and he fell forward into the murky water. A familiar howl rended his hearing. He twisted around, seeing the beast rear its ugly head. No! It had followed him. Eyes closed, he shielded his face with his arm, bracing himself for a blow that never came. Lion-O ventured a look. The dragon-thing was gone. Fear abated and he sat there waist deep in the brackish liquid, wondering what had happened. A sibilant hiss answered his question. He turned, only to stare into the jaws of huge viper. He leapt as it struck, sending a tidal wave of swamp water flying out of the canal. Again it reared up, sighting him. He scrambled for the ditch bank. Saturated old roots and blackened tree branches littered the slick muddy incline. Heart pounding, he crouched, anticipating the snake's next move. A slithery wet hiss sounded as the monster bore down. He grabbed a soggy branch from the bank, hurling it up at the snake's face. It struck the eye like a needle, fire and sparks shooting from the socket. Electricity arched as the great snake writhed, its other eye exploding like a bomb. Lion-O leapt, clawing his way up the slippery bank as voltage sent steam and fire sputtering from the boiling water. Panting, he sat staring incredulously at the sight. It was a machine, a robot, but it had looked so real. He looked about the dismal place. The plants were green, the marsh grass sharp. The place stank of sulfur water and dead vegetation. Those things were real, but the predators were programmed computers, and just as deadly as the creatures they represented. This couldn't go on much longer. He had to find the goal. High above, a dim green light glowed in the distance. He pushed up, tearing through dense green foliage. That had to be the goal, he thought. If he was wrong he was a dead cat. Skill and dumb luck had carried him this far. Sudden burning sensations laced up and across his legs and arms. A sticky, milky sap clung to his wet fur, working into the small cuts and abrasions in his skin. Where did this gunk come from he wondered, and tried to wipe it off. But the more he tried to remove it, the more it stuck. His hands were covered with the tacky substance. He glanced at the path he'd cut through the plants. Broken stems dripped, the white stuff trailing down green broad leaves and thick pods. Ignoring it, he pushed onward. He had to reach the safety zone. And that's exactly what these Aviir wanted him to do. Anger burned at the thought of being manipulated, but at this instant he had no choice. The plants were getting taller and thicker. The pods were as big and heavy as grapefruit. The vegetation was also getting drier--more brittle. He shoved a clump of stalks aside, knocking an old seed casing loose. It fell on the hard rocky ground, exploding into a cloud of brown powdery spores, sending chunks and slivers of wood flying high. It was all he could do to shield his face and stumble forward. Choking, he fell on his knees, concentrating only on breathing. The disorientation passed and that's when he felt the warm familiar sensation of flowing blood. He wiped some it off his cheek, ignoring the other lacerations on his arms. Hatred and anger for his captor flared higher. Determination spurred him and he was on his feet, staggering, half-sliding, half-falling down a rocky incline. He landed at the bottom, thinking that this couldn't go on much longer. Alle-Ma wouldn't let him die--would she? Lion-O sat still, sighting the green light again. It was closer. Listening, he tried to judge his surroundings. An ominous click-click sounded nearby. Quickly, he moved on, taking a path that wove down around some rocks and boulders. The earth was dry and sandy, the swamp smell abating sharply as if the environment had suddenly dried up. Please let this be the way out, he thought. The green light glowed brighter as drew closer. The peculiar clicking sounded again, this time coupled with an nerve-grating scrabbling noise. A high-pitched chittering squeal came from the rocks above him. He spun in time to see a large ugly insect leap at him. Its huge sharp pinchers splayed open, barely missing his head as he ducked. The scorpion's chitinous body smashed into the rocky wall, it's eight legs kicking as it righted itself. Lion-O turned to run as the arachnid lunged. He screamed as its claws grabbed him. Straining with all his might, he couldn't push the pinchers apart. Its whip-like tail curled up, poising the stinger for the kill. Open-mouthed, he stared transfixed with horror. Nothing in his worst nightmare compared to this. This wasn't real. This couldn't be real. Adrenaline surged. He forced the pinchers apart, sliding from the creature's grasp as the tail lashed forward. He scrambled to the side, pivoting to launch himself onto its back. No second chances were allowed. His fingers dug into the seam at its neck, splitting the thick casing. He pulled, pealing back living tissue. Momentarily startled, he hesitated. This wasn't a machine. The scorpion reared, screeching with agony. His fists drove through the wound, aiming to sever the nerve cord from the brain. Soft greasy tissue gave way to his sharp claws. The whip-like tail thrashed madly and the next thing Lion-O knew was blinding pain ripping through his back. He screamed, arching as the stinger plunged through muscle and bone, sending paralyzing venom into this body. He fell off the dead creature, hitting the ground hard, dust flying as he rolled to the side. His blood burned with poison, numbness already consuming his legs. Haze clouded his vision as he looked up. A door had appeared--the green light glaring down into his eyes. He had been right after all: there was the finish line--so close, yet so far. No! He had to make it. Weakly, he pulled himself, dragging the last few meters. A beep sounded. "No," he croaked. The pain was slowly fading, breathing becoming more difficult. He reached for the black boundary line marking the safety zone and he collapsed mere inches away. Like a stone, he lay there. He'd lost--failed. The beep sounded again and the doors parted, letting bright white light stab his eyes. Inside the blurring platinum aura stood the worst of his nightmare; the Aviirian called Alle-Ma.
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Screams bounced off the blank cage walls and Tygra cringed. Dear Jaga, what have they done to him, he thought as he pitted all his might against the straining arms. Claws gouged painfully into the flesh of his forearms as he fought the strength of the delirious Lord of Thundercats. Finally the spasm ceased and Lion-O lay still on his palette. Tygra slumped, breathing a sigh of relief, grateful for the brief respite. Fading sunrays filtered through the skylight, casting a dim glow on the floor. Absently, Tygra stared at it, feeling his worry grow. The fever would peak again, dredging more nightmares from Lion-O's mind. There was nothing Tygra could do to help him. Even with his mental abilities, he could never override the dynamics of the subconscious. Fading sunrays filtered through the skylight, casting a dim glow on the floor. Absently, Tygra stared at it, feeling his worry grow. The fever would peak again, dredging more nightmares from Lion-O's mind. There was nothing Tygra could do to help him. Even with his mental abilities, he could never override the dynamics of the subconscious. The antiseptic odor that tainted Lion-O's fur told him of recent medical attention. Anger bristled the hair on Tygra's neck as he examined the faded healing marks on Lion-O's face and arms, but the odd mark on his back was puzzling. The obstacle course hadn't been that rough. Obviously, the rules had changed. That powerless feeling weighed heavy all the way down to Tygra's bones. Some Lord-protector he'd turned out to be. A moan drew his attention. No, not so soon. This was getting worse. Lion-O was beginning to fight yet another horror only he could see. Tygra grasped the young man's arms, trying to keep them still. "Take it easy. I'm here," he said softly. A chill made Lion-O shudder. His chin trembled, eyes opening in an vacant stare. Softly, he breathed, "Maa." That chill spread to Tygra. The cub's call, he thought, as he now knew the nightmare Lion-O was reliving--the murder of his mother. "No!" Lion-O writhed, sweat matting the fur on his cheeks. "No--no...." Tygra held on tight as his friend struggled against a vision from the past. "Lion-O, listen to me. Listen to my voice. Look at me." His fingers curled tightly around Lion-O's wrists. "Look at me!" The Lord of the Thundercats fever-glazed eyes turned toward him. Tygra grasped the slender thread of attention. "Lion-O, tell me who I am." "They killed her," he whispered, sounding like a lost child. "I saw the Mutants kill her. They--destroy everything." "I know. I know." Tygra battled his own emotions, remembering what happened so long ago. The past could not be changed, only the present. Again he tried to draw his friend away from the dream. "Lion-O, can you see me? Do you know who I am?" His gaze seemed to focus. After a long pause, he said, "Tygra." "Yes." "I couldn't stop them." "You were but a cub then. There was nothing you could do." "Nothing...." Strength drained from the lion's arms. "Like ThunDERa. I watched it die, too." "We all did, my friend." "Couldn't stop it. Couldn't stop this...." Lion-O's eyes closed and he took a deep breath. "Failed. I failed...." Tygra gently placed Lion-O's arms down, and picked up the fallen cloth. It was hot from body heat. Carefully, he wiped the lion's brow. "Tygra," Lion-O murmured. "Yes." "Take care--of Cheetara." He hesitated, wishing he could make that promise. "You know she'll be cared for." The dregs of consciousness faded with Lion-O's words. "She's--with cub." Tygra sat a moment, wondering if Lion-O knew what he'd said. "With cub," he repeated. Now Lion-O's mysterious order at the last council meeting made sense. He'd said if anything were to happen to him--Tygra stopped in mid-thought, alarm filling him. "Lion-O." He shook him hard. "Lion-O, wake up. Damn it, don't you dare give up on me!" The only response was the sound of rapid, shallow of breathing. Hot to the touch, the Lord of Thundercats was burning with fever. Tygra rose and stared out the cage force field, anger welling up like a geyser. "Help him, you sadistic bastards," he yelled. There was no answer--no signal. Pained, Tygra turned back to his friend. He could think of nothing, no way to save him. The situation was out of his hands. A beep sounded and he straightened. A young hawk-like woman stood outside the cell. Her cap of short red-brown feathers contrasted her sharp brown eyes, but her expression wasn't hard like the other birdwoman. "Stand back from the screen," she ordered. Tygra complied and she let the barrier down. She stepped inside, using a remote to reactivated the screen. "I'm taking a big risk trusting you like this. For all I know you could tear me apart." The woman eyed him curiously. "But somehow, I don't think you will." Tygra said nothing, just let her pass. She sat beside the stricken Thundercat and fished through her white pouch. "I saw the telemetry before your outburst. How long has he been like this?" "Since mid-afternoon. I found him like this when the keepers brought me back from the testing," Tygra said coldly. She looked thoughtful a moment, then pulled a small cylindrical device from the pouch. She aimed it at Lion-O and briefly it whirred. "Hmm, no wonder he's a sick kitty." "What's wrong?" "Myrex poisoning. He must've gotten into some of those plants before his run in with the rock crawler. The anti-toxin masked the symptoms." Quickly she retrieved a small vial and pushed the stopper down. As she shook it, the liquid inside turned a dark green. "No use in ruining a needle." She pulled the cap off. "All you toms have tough skin." "Toms?" She smiled coyly. "Un-neutered males." She tilted Lion-O's head to the side and let the medicine trickle slowly into his mouth in small careful doses. Tygra's eyebrows climbed, horror rising at the thought of what the woman had just said. He then realized the Aviirain was administering medicine. "Hey! Wait a minute," Tygra protested, reaching to stop her. "That could be deadly to us." Calmly, the hawk looked up at him. "I've treated others like you. I've got my DVM, specializing in exotics, so don't question my methods." Tygra withdrew his hand and she finished the treatment. Silently she waited, watching Lion-O. He swallowed, coughed slightly, his breathing gradually settling to a deeper, more even rhythm. She rose, putting her equipment back into the pouch. Lion-O tossed and turned, a groan escaping his throat. Tygra checked him, seeing a heavy sheen of perspiration dampened the fur on his face. He turned his stony gaze on the hawk. "Don't worry," she said. "He'll be fine. He'll sleep for the next twelve hours, which is to his favor. And I'll strongly recommend that Alle-Ma leave him alone until his strength returns." Tygra crossed his arms. "I sense that you feel differently about us." The woman straightened, her crest feathers ruffling slightly. "It's called compassion. No more than I can feel for a beloved pet." "No," Tygra said. "It's deeper." There was an awkward pause. Finally the woman said, "Maybe. But what I feel and think won't change anything. To my people, you are an animal. I cannot change the way they think." "The way Alle-Ma thinks," Tygra said. "So she says." "Tell me, what does Alle-Ma plan to do with us?" The hawk looked away. "I really can't say, but I--" She hesitated, biting her lower lip. "There are others like you on Aviir." "So you said. How many others?" "The Lady Lorabi owns two cats. One is a tiger, much like you. And the other is a leo type, but not quite like your friend. There are more, but so many were sold and traded they could be anywhere in the universe." She walked to the force field and fingered the remote unit. Before leaving, she turned to face Tygra again. "What Alle-Ma has planned for you, I'm not sure. But one thing I do know is that it's futile to fight her. She's a fair master and can provide you with an excellent home." She stepped out, signaling the gate to shut. "Do me a favor, and do as she asks of you." "Wait," Tygra said and went to the shield. More questions burned through his mind, but he knew he'd only get more guarded answers. "Can I know your name?" The bird looked back. "I'm Kayj." "I'm Tygra. Thank you for your help." She nodded, her smile softening her hawkish features. "You're welcome--Tygra." And she left, heading down the corridor. Weary, Tygra went over and looked down at Lion-O. He was indeed sleeping peacefully. At that moment, he wished he could do the same. He pulled the blanket securely around Lion-O, relieved that he was going to be all right. This is how Snarf must've felt, tending to Lion-O all these years. He went to his palette, sitting cross-legged on the thick mat. He was tired beyond sleep, but what Kayj had said turned over and over in his mind. Many had been traded or sold, she had said. And what else? And Fierra, what had happened to her? He dare not let his imagination run wild. All he knew was that she was still alive, still out there, somewhere in this vast universe. The small hope of finding his mate was still a distant dream. Too much had happened in the past three days, and the future was laden with uncertainty. He couldn't ignore the bad vibrations his intuition was sending him. And Kayj's disturbing words keep echoing in his mind. "Others like us," he said, looking through the window at the darkness now covering the sky.
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Blessed warmth filled the Feliner, warding off a bone deep coldness. Cheetara came to, gripping the console as she rubbed at a tender spot on the side of her head. A glow at her feet caught her eye. The sword of Omens flared bright blue, giving off heat. "Pumyra? Panthro?" she called, maneuvering in the cramped cabin. She shook Pumyra's shoulder then reached for Panthro. Thank Jaga, they were still alive. Panthro groaned, slowly opening his eyes. He too, rubbed his skull. "My head--" Pumyra stirred, her eyes fluttering open. "The warp! Wha--what happened?" She twisted, looking back over her shoulder. "Cheetara?" "I'm fine. How about you two?" "No apparent damage," Panthro said as he started working on the controls. "I wish I could say the same for the Feliner." Power flickered on, lights burning bright, and in moments the staleness left the air. The Sword's brilliance died away as the cabin temperature leveled off. "Let's see what else works," he said grimly. Pumyra checked her console, correlating data to Panthro. "Not much, by the looks of it," she said. "Life support is functional. So are the sensors." "Blast," he said. "The stabilizer is shot and the propulsion unit is gone. The mega condenser is nothing but slag." "We're stranded," Pumyra said, leaning back in her seat. Cheetara tested the navi-screen. There was no response, not even a flicker of energy would register. Deep in her heart, the fears were slowly swelling. Marooned in the middle of space, they faced a slow and horrible death. The question of how long they could last out in the middle of nowhere went unasked. Cheetara's shoulders slumped as she stared at the stationary stars that glimmered dull and cold as blue ice crystals. What had started out as fierce determination threatened to dissolve into hopelessness. Chin resting on his fists, Panthro stared at the burned-out control panel. "Pumyra, shut down the lower section and cut power to fifty percent. Direct the life support mains to the cabin so we can conserve what we can." "To prolong the inevitable?" she asked softly. "No, to prolong our chances of being found." Panthro reached for a section of colored buttons. "I'm going to set the distress beacon. There's nothing else we can do." A barely audible bleep sounded from the depths of the Feliner. Panthro settle back, arms crossed. "Now, we sit and wait." "Even if we could move, we're probably parsecs off course," Pumyra said. "No, we're not," Cheetara answered in a quiet voice. Panthro half turned in his seat. "Lion-O's presence," she said, "is stronger--more tangible." The distant light that was their bond glowed brighter giving her some comfort. "That ship must've come through that warp--brought them this way." "With no way for us to continue," Pumyra said. "Isn't there anything we can