He ducked as the mutant vehicle zoomed overhead, the heat of strafing laser beams burning the ground inches from his legs. Powerful blasts splintered more stone, sending shards spraying out. Immediately, the shrill thrum of another propulsion engine grew louder. He twisted squinting into the morning sun, trying to aim the Sword of Omens at the fleeting image of a skycutter as it shot just above him.
Sweat dampened his body fur, soaking into his blue body suit. With his free hand, he wiped the grime from his face. His heartbeat pounded throughout his body, adrenalin and fears mounting by the second. He was trapped, had made a fatal error and he cursed himself again for his carelessness. He couldn't last long here. A move had to be made, and soon.
A sudden silence filled the narrow crevice. Suspicious, he waited, listening for the tell-tale signs of the Mutants' return, but nothing happened. The attack had stopped, he thought, then shook his head. No--they wouldn't give up. They knew they had him cornered but good. As the seconds ticked by, his cat senses snarled warnings in his brain.
Glancing about, his gaze settled on the narrow path that was the only way in and out of this cul-de-sac. Once in that high-walled area, he was fair game, but it was the only option he had. He growled, gripping the Sword of Omens tighter as he crouched, muscles tensing in preparation for the run of his life. He launched, running as fast as his powerful legs could carry him. His pulse pounded a desperate beat in his ears as he charged down the narrow opening.
A war cry resounded from behind. The pulsing jets of the skycutters shrilled loudly as the machines rose like demons from hell. S-S-Slithe and Jackalman swooped down, laser fire spraying from their guns as they came straight at him.
Lion-O's shout of 'HO!' echoed as he raised the Sword of Omens. White bolts shot like lightning from the silver blade, colliding with blue, exploding in a brilliant ball of fire. The Mutants circled back, coming in low for another pass.
He pivoted, aiming the sword as they barrelled up the rocky alley at him.
"Now, Monkian!" S-S-Slithe shouted as they zoomed over Lion-O's head.
Too late, Lion-O half-turned seeing the hairy ape-like mutant appear in the gully entrance on the ground hugging nose-diver. In one instant a searing energy blast hit, slamming him back against the jagged boulders, driving the air from his lungs. Pain tore through his ribs, the shock blanketing his senses. The Sword of Omens clanged as it fell against the brown granitite rocks.
He couldn't breath, images shifting from gray to white as he struggled to stay conscious. He gasped, his fingers digging into the soil, the chips of stone cutting into his palms. To pass out now would seal his death. It was only by the grace of the sword's protection he was still alive.
Hoots of monkey and jackal laughter bounced off the crater's craggy walls, punctuated by a reptilian hiss. The pulsing sound of the engines fell silent.
Heavy footfalls thumped the ground, drumming into Lion-O's faint awareness. The sound of a thick tail dragging through sand scraped loudly and offensively to his ears. He managed to open his eyes, only to see a gargoyle-like shadow eclipse the sun. S-S-Slithe's hideous grin came into focus.
The green-scaled Mutant leered down at Lion-O, his webbed hand clenching into a fist. "We got him! We finally got him," he said triumphantly. The Plundarian placed the point of his pike over the Thundercat's heart, exerting pressure.
Lion-O winced as the diamond-tip pierced through cloth and fur, biting into the skin.
"This is where you meet your maker, Thundercat." The lizard smiled as he drew back the shaft.
Lion-O stared up at his enemies. Oddly, his fear was gone. Only regrets of the circumstances that put him out here in the Field of Daggers in the first place filled him. Mentally he gripped the bond connecting him to his mate, asking forgiveness for his mistakes.
S-S-Slithe brought the point straight down.
Silver bright light flashed as a resounding 'thwack' split the silence. The cutting edge of the Sword of Omens slashed through the metal shaft, severing the spearhead and it spun away, smashing into the dense rocks. The reptile hissed, the other mutants gasping in surprise and fear as they abruptly drew back. Through a hazy blur, Lion-O looked up.
Clad in a full-length gray cloak, her face hidden by a hood, a woman stood protectively over him. She brandished the Sword of Omens as if daring the Plundarians to attack. At first he thought it was one of the warrior maidens, but the build was wrong. He struggled to get up, but the remnants of the blast still lingered.
"Who--who are you?" S-S-Slithe stammered as he took another step back. The trembling jackal hid behind Monkian, both trying to ease back to the sky-cutters.
"Does it matter, cowards?" She aimed the sword, its razor edge glinting in the sun. "Be glad I'm sparing your worthless lives. Now--get out of here!"
The three stood frozen, gaping at the intruder.
"Go!" she shouted.
They scrambled, falling over one another as they turned tail and ran. They mounted their vehicles, not looking back as they fled into the sky.
The woman watched until they were out of sight before she turned toward Lion-O. She knelt beside him, helping him to sit up. "Are you harmed?"
"I don't think so," he answered, looking into the dark concealment of the hood. All he could see were two glowing crimson eyes--cat's eyes. A peculiar warmth spread through him, a haunting familiarity gripping him as he stared at her. He knew her, from somewhere, some time so long ago. She eased him forward, assisting him to his feet. It was then he noticed her touch was almost nonexistent, the only sensation being a slight pressure.
She handed him the sword, the folds of her cloak falling open to reveal the red and black snarling cougar symbol that belonged to ThunDERian nobility. The sight broke his trance. He blinked, taking the mystic weapon. "You saved my life. I wish to thank you--er...."
"There's no need to thank me, Lion-O."
The eerie feeling closed tighter around him. "How did you know my name?"
"I know much about you, Lord of the Thundercats." There was a smile in her voice, a softness that sounded almost like pride. "I've watched you for quite a while now."
"Who--?"
She cut him off, signaling for silence as the distant rumble of an engine echoed in the crevice. The unmistakable roar of the Thundertank on approach grew louder. A flash of chrome and the dying whine of the vehicle told Lion-O just where above them it had stopped.
Panthro's large shadow fell as he appeared at the gully's high edge. "Lion-O?" the panther called, his deep voice echoing slightly.
"Down here."
"Thank Jaga, you're all right! Hang on. Lynx-O and I will get you out."
Lion-O cupped his hands around his mouth. "No! Come down here," he called, and started to turn. "There's someone I--" He stopped in mid-sentence astonishment robbing him of speech. A warm gentle breeze blew through the empty arroyo. He was standing there alone. The mysterious woman had disappeared like a shadow into the night.
###
Cheetara closed her eyes, relief easing the tension in her shoulders. The feelings of impending danger had faded from her sixth sense. She took a deep breath, her hand resting atop the roundness of her belly, feeling the life within her move.
"He's safe," she murmured to her unborn cub. "Your father is all right, wildcat." She turned from the window, going to the round gloss-topped council table and eased down into her chair. She drew in a long deep breath, feeling emotionally drained.
Six months had passed since the Aviirian affair and still Lion-O had not spoken one word of what he and Tygra had endured in their captivity. The emotional wounds were beginning to fester, yet he had distanced himself, shutting her off from that part of him, refusing to acknowledge the pain he harbored.
Elbow propped on the chair arm, Cheetara rested her chin on her fist and gazed pensively out the window. She knew something of what had transpired, recognized the guilt he had tried to hide. Unshed tears burned her eyes as she felt the invisible barrier between her and Lion-O quiver.
The pad of soft-soled boots sounded behind her and she swiveled to see Pumyra approach. She smiled as convincingly as possible at her friend.
Hands on hips, the puma looked down. "Nice try, but you're as transparent as those window panes."
"That bad, huh?"
Pumyra nodded, perching on the edge of the table. "Another catfight?"
Cheetara's smile melted and her gaze dropped to the blue tiled floor. "Yes," she answered softly. "It's my fault he was out in the Field of Daggers." She fidgeted with the border of her orange smock. "And it was over something that was completely ridiculous."
"And it concerned Aja?"
Even now a spark of jealousy stung like an insect at the mention of the tigress' name. She nodded. Time and again Cheetara reminded herself those feelings were illogical. But lately her mate was paying more attention to Aja than to her. "I told Lion-O that I thought she was hanging around him too much. That it didn't look right. He accused me of doubting his fidelity." She hesitated slightly, then softly added, "I told him he shouldn't be so vain. That's when he stormed out of Cat's Lair."
"I see." Pumyra crossed her arms, her dark red-brown eyes remaining on Cheetara, her expression of concern deepening. "Sounds like two people I know and love aren't communicating properly." She rose, smoothing the skirt of her black jumper. Purposefully, she walked to stand behind Cheetara and leaned against the chair, her elbows resting on the high back. "You still haven't asked him?"
"About Alle-Ma? No." She stared at the black cougar head emblem that decorated the center of the polished table. "I felt he would talk about it when he was ready."
"He may never be. Both he and Tygra have been hiding behind a emotional steel barrier."
"I know," Cheetara said. "I sense deep pain in both of them."
Pumyra paused a moment, then said. "Aja has suffered even more." The long tan and white side tufts of her mane hung down as she bowed her head. "She saw her parents die, was totally subjugated for most of her life and then there's what happened between her and Tygra. Aja needs emotional support right now, especially since she and you are in the same condition. Tygra has all but closed her out, so it's natural she'd seek out someone she'd trust."
Realization dawned on Cheetara. "Lion-O--"
Pumyra nodded. "Plus, Aja is almost seventeen summers. She's a young woman. She is bonded, but only on the physical level. Emotionaly, she's still a free heart. She could be attracted to him. Lion-O may not realize the effect his kindness is having on her." She placed a hand on Cheetara's shoulder. "If you like, I'll speak to Aja."
"No," she said, looking up. "I'll talk to her--and Lion-O."
"Good," Pumyra said, with a smile. "That's what I wanted to hear." She urged her friend to stand. "Now, come on. Let's get to the medical bay. You're due for your bio-reading."
Cheetara frowned. "I had one yesterday."
"And you'll have another and another," Pumyra answered. "You're due any day and I want to be prepared."
"You healers are all alike," Cheetara groaned as she pushed up from the chair, Pumyra giving her a helping hand.
"I'm more than a healer," the puma said. "I'm your friend."
"Yes, you are," Cheetara said, gripping Pumyra's hand, "a good friend. Thank you."
As they walked to the door, Cheetara felt like a weight was beginning to lift. As soon as Lion-O got back, she would talk to him. For his sake and hers, she prayed for the right words to say.
###
Relief coursed through him as he turned away and silently thanked the mystics for turning a blind eye to the incident. For some reason, the powers were being lenient. Until recently, the mystics had granted only Jaga the liberty of keeping close watch over Lion-O and the Thundercats, and to periodically appear to and advise the young lord. But now that freedom was temporarily revoked.
Jaga rose from his rock. Even though physics meant nothing in this existence he chose to keep his mortal form. It reminded him of ties to life as it was, kept him conscious of what had been. How well he remembered the pains and joys of the flesh.
"Father," a soft voice called.
He straightened, turning to see a dark gray shadow appear against the lighter opaqueness of the haze. He smiled, recognizing the woman as she approached and he opened his small world to her, permitting her to enter. Flames of color reddened her mane, her black and silver warrior's dress enhancing her aura of strength. Her face was as radiant as a beacon, her crimson eyes shining against a mask of white. Full red lips parted in a smile, glowing against the ivory of her muzzle. How much she looked like her mother, Jaga thought.
"Liana." He held out his arms and they hugged for a long time. When they parted, Jaga smoothed back the hair tufts from her cheeks seeing the engraved clasp that kept her mane to the side in a thick tail. The onyx and ruby stone held the carved image of an ancient cat crouched for the attack. His heart weighed heavy as he studied it, remembering the last time he'd seen it. "You wear the heirloom."
His eyes downcast, he said, "Yes, you were."
"Then I shall wear it when I return to the physical plane."
"Then it's true."
"Yes, I have been chosen."
"But it's too soon. You've not been here long enough. Surely there are others."
She looked up at him, her eyes growing dark with suppressed anger. "I was not long enough on ThunDERa. I was taken from my husband, from all I loved before my time."
"Hush, daughter. You must not dispute the will of the mystics. It was predestined."
"You call it will?" Her fire matched the color of her mane. "To die before seeing my son grow up. Before seeing--"
"Liana, what was cannot be changed. What is to be--" He bowed his head. "I can only voice my opinion, though I know it will change little."
"You wish me to stay here, until Claudus crosses over to this plane."
Jaga said nothing. He knew her stubbornness, saw the same trait periodically in her son. Once her mind was made up, there was no changing it. He let go of her, turning away. He had lost her once and now he faced losing her again.
Solemnly, Liana stood beside him, her gray cloak closed about her. "Please, father, don't make this difficult. Let me go with your blessing. Once I am gone, all I will be is a memory to you and a faint reflection to others. I will not remember any of this for I will be part of a new spirit in a new home. My talents and powers will be given to my son's child."
"It is a great sacrifice. Is that what you truly wish?"
"It's my greatest desire."
"Very well," he said, facing her again, this time taking on an air of sternness. "But until that moment, you mustn't interfere in the events of the physical realm."
"You saw me, then?"
He nodded, a grimness overtaking the spark of pride he felt. "What you did could have had disastrous effects. To interfere in natural events is very dangerous."
"It was not Lion-O's time."
"You don't know that."
"I'd rather risk going into oblivion than let the Mutants do to him what they did to me."
"In time, fate will punish them for their evil deeds. It is not for us to decide--"
"--nor judge others for their actions." Liana stood back, her expression devoid of emotion. "The future is for the fates alone to decide." A bitterness colored her tone. "As they did mine."
"Liana--"
"Father, you have the power to help them. I don't know how you can sit here and watch them struggle to survive. I can't, and I won't. I'll do everything I possibly can to aid them until my time comes." She grasped his hands, looking him in the eyes. "And that time grows short. I must go and prepare now." She leaned forward and tenderly kissed his cheek. "Remember me and my love for you and Mother."
For a moment they looked at one another and then she turned and walked away, her colors leaching away into the grayness of the swirling mists. Finally the outline of her soul-self vanished into the sparkling clouds.
Jaga burned the image of his daughter into his mind. Against his better judgment, she was about to make passage back to the world of reality. "I will..." he whispered, the ache in his soul growing strong, "...my little girl. Always."
###
Sluggish rings rippled across the forever bubbling purplish-pink liquid as he concentrated harder. "Great evil," he murmured, his deep scratchy voice growing louder. "Overwhelming power. I sense the presence of one who could finally rid Third Earth of the wretched Thundercats once and for all." He scryed harder. "But where is it coming from? I must know!"
From the center of the burial chamber, Mumm-Ra turned looking at the four giant stone effigies that represented his masters. Sebek, the crocodile-headed god, he who was one with Set, stood at the north wind. Nekhebet, the Vulture king, guarded the south wind. Osiris Apis, the Bull of reincarnation, watched over the east and the jackal, Upuaut, he who opens the way for the dead, oversaw the west.
Mumm-Ra's hunched spine straightened, the cape falling open. Dirty white strips of cloth straggled down as he raised his shriveled, bandaged arms to them. "O ancient powers of evil, I implore you! Reveal to me where I may find this great ally." His gnarled, claw-like fingers curled into shaking fists. "Give me the means to rid Third Earth of our enemies!"
In answer, thunder rolled, the clash of lightning sounding from above. The eyes of the statues flared red, illuminating the musty tomb with a poisonous aura. The ancient pyramid trembled as pure energy coursed down, striking the four obelisks holding the cauldron in place. Mumm-Ra's cloak flared wide as he spun to peer into the viscous mud once more.
Light burned fire-red, the image of a rolled parchment forming in the center. The sluggish waters boiled faster, pushing the image closer to the surface. A column of liquid erupted, spitting the roll up into the air. It hovered a moment, then drifted down to the demon-priest's out-stretched hand. Slowly, he untied it, opening the dry paper.
"To the south, in the ruins of Bubastis, look for the temple of Bastet. There in the chamber of Mehit dwells the heart of the goddess of vengeance, Sekhmet, the one great of magic. Through one pure of life, she who destroys will walk the earth again." He closed the parchment, clenching it tightly in his fist.
"Through one pure of life!" he repeated. A plan formed in his mind and his insane laugh echoed through the tomb. He knew exactly where to find such a person. The irony was so diabolically sweet. The Thundercats themselves would provide the vessel of their destruction.
His arms spread out, his head bowing as he summoned his terrible, magical might. The winds began to stir, his cape and tattered mummy wrappings billowing out behind him as he spoke the chant of transformation.
"Ancient spirits of evil, transform this decaying form to Mumm-RA--The Ever-LIVING!"
Power surged, striking his frail body. His scream melded in the howl of gale-force winds. Lightning crackled all around, his frame growing stronger, larger as terrible magic infused his body. The dirty white wrappings split as gray withered flesh transformed into powerful muscle. The red symbol of the double-headed serpent appeared on his expanding chest. On his head appeared the snake-horned khepresh, the helmet of power. He levitated, the red cape spreading like the wings of bat, as he twisted around in mid-air, savoring the feel of new strength born of evil. The fringes of his blue and red pharoah skirt settled as the static dissipated.
His maniacal laugh replaced the roar of the winds as he shot toward the apex of the onyx pyramid and exited through the vent-port. The thunder drowned out his malevolent cackle as he disappeared into the perpetually black-clouded sky.
Lion-O sat on the oblong Medi-scanner table staring past his booted feet. The steel blue floor of the infirmary threw back a dull reflection he vaguely acknowledged. A light pressure tingled, moving slowly along the lower part of his back as Pumyra quietly tended his injuries. He felt, but paid no attention to the ministrations.
The aftermath of the ambush stayed in his mind. The image of the mysterious woman would not go away, her soft, yet strong voice haunting his memory. She was more than a Thundercat--he'd sensed that much. Then there was her abrupt disappearance, and that troubled him even more. Maybe he'd only imagined the gray woman. Like the dreams that haunted him from the Aviirian nightmare, maybe she had been a figment of his imagination, a creation of his mind. He closed his eyes, his constant state of anxiety weighing heavier than ever. Everything seemed to be pressing down all at once.
Maybe he was cracking up, he thought when suddenly a pain shot through his back.
"Ow! Hey!" he growled, half-turning toward Pumyra. "Watch it!"
She waved the pistol-like sonic anabolizer. "Sorry, but sometimes healing can be painful. You have a nasty bone bruise. If your ribs had bent any further, they'd have broken." She motioned for him to face way from her. "Now stop acting like a spoiled kitten. The sooner I finish,
the sooner you'll feel better."
"Spoiled kitten," he muttered as he turned away from her again.
"I think you're enjoying this."
The doors slid apart permitting the newest addition to Cat's Lair to enter. Aja stood for a moment, her face brightening when she saw Lion-O. Wide topaz eyes conveyed an innocence born of an inner spirit of good. Despite the hardships this young tigress had experienced, she still possessed a loving heart. If Lion-O could call anyone sister, it was Aja.
For one so pregnant, she moved very gracefully. "Hi," she said, glancing at Pumyra, then to Lion-O. "I'm sorry to intrude, but Kit and Kat said you'd been hurt." Her gaze didn't leave him. "I was worried about you."
Lion-O gave a wan smile. "Oh, it's not bad. It's just a bruise." At that moment, Pumyra hit another sore place. He winced, barely stopping himself from squirming.
"Oh, I'm so glad you're okay." She stepped closer. Shyly, she smiled up at him. "Could I ask you a favor?"
"Sure. What is it?"
"Could you help me with my studies?"
Lion-O's eyebrows rose slightly as he considered her request. "Certainly." The ghosts of guilt rose as thoughts of this morning's argument with Cheetara surfaced. Maybe his mate was right in feeling the way she did. Aja had been hovering close to him lately. "Er--I'd be glad to, but where's Tygra? He should be helping you."
Her expression grew somber as her gaze dropped. She twisted a corner of the hem in her short white smock, her nervousness very appparent. "He's busy. He and Bengali had to go to the Tower of Omens. It had something to do with the blueplans."
"You mean blueprints," he corrected her.
"Oh--yeah."
"Your studies will have wait a little bit, Aja," Pumyra said as she finished her work. She set the medical instrument on the counter and gave Lion-O a light clap on the shoulder, signaling for him to get down. "Because, young one, you're due for a bio-scan."
"But I just had one three days ago," she protested.
"Guess what," the puma said. "You're going to have another one!" She tossed Lion-O his shirt. "Besides, Lord Lion-O has an important matter to attend to." Lion-O pulled the blue tank-top over his head. As he tugged it into place, he gave the healer a puzzled look. "I do?" he asked, snapping his belt around his waist.
"Of course." Pumyra placed a hand on his shoulder. "It's the important matter left over from this morning. The one you need to discuss with Cheetara," she said, gently guiding him to the door. "Now, on your way. And no heavy lifting for a couple of days, understand?"
"Yes. Yes," he answered as the door whooshed shut behind him. He grimaced, a new tension stretching his nerves.
He looked ceiling-ward sensing Cheetara's whereabouts above in the atrium. Guilt filled him as he looked at the stairway that led upward. He knew the real reason behind the fight, and the tension between him and Cheetara.
A clamminess crawled under his fur as if he'd awakened from his nightmare once again. Strong memories of touch and scent, pain and pleasure mixed in the vision that flashed behind his eyes, and worst of all, in that dream Cheetara had seen everything. Quickly he suppressed it, grateful she knew nothing of what he'd done while on Aviir. To know would hurt her deeply. Silence was the only way to protect her, especially now, with her time so close.
Taking a deep breath, he forced himself to move toward the steps. It was best to apologize and forget the incident. Bury it. Like Aviir, it was in the past, and that couldn't be changed. If he ignored the pain long enough, maybe it would go away. It had to, he thought, as he slowly started to ascend the stairs.
###
The long, hollow structure that was the tower lay like a huge fallen oak tree. The base was filled with blast holes and scorched soot-black from fire. The Robeir Berbils had helped to clear most of the debris and when that was done, there was very little left inside to salvage.
He turned to the portable drawing table, smoothing down the curling corner of the blueprints. It looked like they'd have to start from scratch. Already his analytical eye could see the new lines and points to improve. He shouldn't have put off this project for so long, he thought. A sense of failure threatened to flare inside his heart. Deep down, he knew why he'd procrastinated.
"It looks better on the inside," a soft growly voice said. Tygra looked up sharply. Bengali was standing next to the table and was also looking at the plans. "The steel infrastructure will need some reinforcing," the white tiger said as he pointed at the bottom of the sheet. "We could make the walls thicker and more graduated instead of the sharp indent here."
Hand on his chin, Tygra studied the prints then looked at the ruined building again, picturing what Bengali had suggested. "Hmm, it might work, but those T-beams would have to be replaced."
"Not all of them. The foundation's very solid."
"How do you know?" he asked curtly. Bengali pulled his power hammer. "I was a blacksmith, remember. I can tell when metal lies."
"Oh, yes," Tygra said, embarrassed at his question. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to doubt you."
"That's all right, my friend. I sense that." Bengali crossed his arms, regarding Tygra for a moment. "I also sense that you are--troubled. Just being at the tower has made it more apparent."
"You're wrong," Tygra lied, avoiding Bengali's gaze. "I'm fine." He rolled up the plans and started toward the ruins. Damn, he thought he'd finally mastered his emotional emanations.
"I see it when you are with Aja."
Tygra snapped around, a burst of anger surging through him. "Don't meddle in private affairs, Bengali." His closed fingers nearly crushed the tube of paper. "Especially mine."
"Someone has to, Tygra. Lord Lion-O can't because he's part of what's bothering you, isn't he?"
The anger abated and Tygra stood staring at his kinsman. What Bengali had said struck several sore points. Painful memories bled like fresh wounds and the bitterness he suppressed broke free. His failures on Aviir were marks upon his soul.
Guilt and hurt flashed through him like fire. "Yes," he said, averting his gaze, "he is. I know he did his best, but still--" Tygra squelched the emotion, knowing Lion-O had taken the only option available in their bid to escape Aviir. Self-reproach pained his spirit. "Damn it! I let him down. I let Aja down. My actions will follow me the rest of my days." He looked vacantly at the tower, feeling the empty place in his heart. His voice became a hoarse whisper. "Above all, I must deal with the fact that Fierra is gone and I can't even grieve for her."
"And you blame Aja for this?"
The question was like an electrical shock striking a nerve. "Don't be foolish," Tygra snapped. He frowned, realizing that Bengali had hit the truth. "She's an innocent victim. She doesn't even understand the circumstances of what happened to us."
"Then help her understand," Bengali said. "She's your mate. You don't realize it, but you're shutting her out. You're rejecting her and there's only one other person on Third Earth she can turn to and that's Lion-O."
For several long moments Tygra stared at Bengali, feeling more than the dry heat of the overhead sun. It was as if his eyes had opened for the first time since the homecoming. He understood why Aja seemed more and more distant to him, why her growing attraction to Lion-O was so apparent.
"Bengali, I know you speak to me only because you care and I thank you, my friend. It is a private matter and I'm--handling it. So, if you don't mind, let's drop this discussion. We have some work to do, okay?"
The concern in the white tiger's expression did not vanish. His cool blue gaze did not turn away as he merely nodded his agreement.
As the two started for the ruins, a distant roll of thunder sounded. Tygra and Bengali turned, looking heavenward. In the distance, thick, lumpy, ink-black clouds churned high into the sky, lightning branching wicked and sharp across the nebulous mass.
A creepy feeling shivered up Tygra's spine. A strangeness permeated the arid breeze coming from off the burning sands of the phosphorus desert. Even the perpetual thick fog of the forest of mists seemed disturbed. He clapped Bengali on the shoulder and they hurried toward the crumbling ruins of the tower. To Tygra, the storm was one more reason to quickly finish this inspection and hurry back to Cat's Lair.
###
These plants had come from ThunDERa. They were mature and now bearing fruit and the time had come to see if their offspring would grow in Third Earth's rich soils. She looked down at her distended belly, smoothing a hand over the roundness. "In a way, we're like these plants, wildcat," she said softly. "We're finally taking root."
Her gentle smile faded and she straightened, sensing the approach of her life-mate. She turned as the door opened and Lion-O stepped inside, his tall, muscular frame filling the doorway. The filtered sunlight enhanced the golden tones in his coat and the rich reds of his thick full mane. A heaviness tainted his emotional signals, that ever-present penitence shading his aura. Invisible tendrils constricted around Cheetara's heart. By all the mystics, she loved this cat.
"Cheetara," he said, his voice soft and deep. "I'm sorry about this morning. I shouldn't have shouted at you. I know you'd never doubt my fidelity--or Aja's intentions."
The anger and jealousy that had controlled her earlier melted away. Wordlessly she went to him, embracing him as best as her body would permit. His arms encircled her, reciprocating the hug and a mixture of emotions charged through their bond.
"I'm sorry too," she whispered into his shoulder, "I was afraid that something would happen and it nearly did. I've been blaming myself all morning."
"For something that's not your fault." He eased his hold, making her look at him. "No, I should have never said what I said." His crimson eyes glistened as he spoke. "I should've realized what was happening. Please, believe me, Aja's an innocent--a child at heart and I see her being cheated of her adolescence like I was. Tygra's pushing her away and I--felt sorry for her. I wanted to help her and without thinking, I neglected your needs. I'm so...sorry...."
The last word was a whisper of pain, the emotions buried
deep inside him nearly breaking free. Mentally she reached for him, offering
comfort, but he drew back, his protective barrier again shutting her out.
She looked up at him, the ache in her soul overruling her silence. "Lion-O, please talk to me."
He tensed slightly, letting go of her. "About what?"
Cheetara stepped back, her gaze not leaving his face. "About us." She paused, feeling the strength of the soul-light that made them one, savoring its warmth. "Do you remember what happened two and a half years ago?"
She looked up at him, the ache in her soul overruling her silence. "Lion-O, please talk to me."
He tensed slightly, letting go of her. "About what?"
Cheetara stepped back, her gaze not leaving his face. "About us." She paused, feeling the strength of the soul-light that made them one, savoring its warmth. "Do you remember what happened two and a half years ago?"
"In a cave, dark and cold. We were hurt and bleeding. Neither of us knew how the other felt because we were afraid to talk."
"I remember--" he answered, "like it was yesterday. The Mutants appeared and we fought them. I nearly lost you. I never asked Panthro or Tygra how they saved you."
"Nor I, but I've had dreams." Imaginary chimes sounded in a warmth of vivid colors and a small shadowy child-like shape flitted through the dream memory. The golden aura that used to surround Lion-O in her vision softly appeared. "Remember?"
He nodded.
"And those dreams ceased when I told you about them."
Lion-O's gaze dropped to the dirt floor.
Frustration mounted inside her. "Don't shut me out," she pleaded. "Tell me what it is that pains you so." Tears threatened to spill from her eyes. "I am your mate. Please, let me help you."
Lion-O couldn't hide the emotional battle raging within him. Fear colored his scent, clouding the light of his aura. After a long silence, a look of resignation came to his face. Arms crossed tightly over his chest, his eyes riveted on the shelf full of purple plants beside him.
A long beat passed, the silence stretching the tension. Finally, in a soft, low voice he began to speak. "It's no use. I can't truly hide it from you...or myself...anymore."
He took a deep breath. "On Aviir Tygra and I were subjected to... situations we had no control over. It was so humiliating...degrading." He paused, bowing his head. "At one point, I was badly injured and I almost died. I would have, if it weren't for Tygra. While I was weak, they took him away. They 'conditioned' him--and forced him on Aja." His face lifted, and he looked directly at Cheetara. "I couldn't reach him until it was too late." His tone became a harsh whisper. "I failed him."
Again he stopped, visibly fighting the bottled emotions. Cheetara waited, resisting the impulse to go to him.
"I wasn't forced on anyone," he continued, shame and humiliation burning through the life bond. "No, I had to contend with Alle-Ma. I--I was made her pet. I had to do what she asked of me. It meant our escape--or at least the chance. It was.... I--" He struggled to say the words, his voice breaking. "I had to.... She--she--"
"--raped you," Cheetara whispered. Cold anger burned in her heart as thoughts of the Aviirian came forth. His hand covered his eyes, trying to hide the glittering tears of pain and remorse. Cheetara went to him, hugging him.
"I failed," he said hoarsely. "I broke the code of ThunDERa. I failed Tygra. I failed you and I failed myself. I am not worthy to be Lord of the Thundercats anymore."
"Lion-O...."
"The memories won't fade. The reminders are always there." His fists curled white-knuckle tight. "I wanted to kill that bird," he said angrily. "Maybe I should have. I let so many things happen--things that could've been avoided."
"Shush." Cheetara soothed, feeling the pounding pulse of his rage ease. "What happened was beyond your control," she said. "You did what you had to, to survive."
"It was the coward's way!"
"That's not true," Cheetara said sharply, "and you know that. As you said, don't blame yourself for something that's not your fault." Gently, she placed his hand over her heart, then gingerly rested hers over his. His soul-light burned brightly as she opened herself to him, letting him feel her love and compassion. Inside him, the ache was less, his wall of secrecy had crumbled. She looked into his eyes and for the first time since that awful event, she felt full communion with her mate return.
He too, had felt it, welcomed it. "I love you," he whispered.
"And I you."
Relief flooded her. A turning point had been reached. Together, hand in hand, they turned to leave, both stopping completely as the screen door slammed shut. There had been an unmistakable glimpse of orange and black and those stripes had belonged to Aja.
###
Three thousand years couldn't dim the demon-priest's memory. He could still see the layout of the city and he started down the sloping dune. He knew where the temple of Bastet was located. His sight settled on another, lesser dune. A single broken column pointed skyward, its chipped surface displaying hieroglyphics that spoke of blessings on one side and warned of curses on the other. He ignored it, walking three paces past it.
"Here!" he growled, abruptly stopping and looking down. "I sense it is here. Beneath me."
His brawny arms flexed as his hands came together with a mighty clap. The sound rolled like thunder, shaking the ground like an earthquake. The tons of sand rose, blowing away like smoke to reveal a descending flight of stairs. The entrance was barely large enough for him to squeeze through.
Dust floated in the faint gloomy light of the passage that went deep into the ground. Jade and sapphire scarabs scurried over the soot black walls and spider webs as ancient as the tomb hung down like torn silks. The dankness was nothing new to Mumm-Ra as he moved purposefully toward his goal, which glowed just ahead.
He entered an antechamber. The phosphorus lichens in the intricately carved walls cast a dull shine through the room. Two large statues stood guard before a closed and tightly sealed door. The cat-headed humanoid female figures stood upright, each carrying a basket in the crooks of their right arms. Their left hands were raised in a gesture of warning.
Mumm-Ra walked directly between the two idols going to the sealed door. Carefully he felt along the seams between the bricks, stopping midway down the surface. His low throaty laugh grated against the silence. He pushed the ancient massive stone as easily as if it were a button. It swiveled, revealing a compartment.
"Not so secretive, eh, Bastet. I know your convoluted ways of trickery." He reached inside and retrieved two sparkling red balls of crystal. Back at the statues, he placed one in each basket. "A matter of weight and balance," he said, "and a false door!"
The walls trembled, the statues sliding further apart to show an opening in the floor. Mumm-Ra descended deeper into the blackness.
Blood-red stone glowed like molten lava, but there was no heat. On the far wall, a snarling angry vestige of a lioness protected an altar. On top of the thick marble slab stood four canopic jars. Mumm-Ra's sights settled on the third black and gold funerary ceramic, recognizing the image of the goddess Selket. He snatched up the container lifting it high, feeling the raw evil imprisoned within it quiver in his grasp.
"The Ka of Sekhmet is mine. The goddess of vengeance will live again and the Thundercats will be her first targets." His terrible laugh echoed through the cold chamber as he held the jar high above his head.
###
He already knew what fate had in store for his people, but the mystic forces would not reveal the outcome. They only said that a balance would be maintained, because for every loss there is a gain. A spirit was leaving this realm. That meant one would be entering--a Thundercat would die.
The unfairness of it all angered him, but he knew it was useless to fight what was predestined. Liana's words seemed to echo in the mists that surrounded the mirror. It's time we protected our own.
A sad smile came to him. Liana had always had a fiery temper, and more. In life she had been a fierce warrior, a Thundercat and mostly, lady consort to Claudus, Lord of the Thundercats. She had given ThunDERa an heir. She had accomplished so much in her short life. Sadly, he remembered the day she had been taken away. It was the day Ratilla the Terrible had boldly assaulted the capitol. Memories played as if on screen in his mind.
*******
He pounded up the steps, his sword gripped tightly in his hand. The Plundarians would never dare launch such a bold attack but for two possible reasons: to steal the Treasure of ThunDERa, or to kidnap the heir. Or possibly both, he decided, as he ran along the perimeter hall.
Grapple claws scraped against the stone vent ports. Large and ugly, reptilian soldiers breached the walls, appearing through the broken armor-plating of the windows. Lair warriors swarmed in from behind.
There was a shout and Jaga turned as a green, scaly monster leapt down at him. The point of Jaga's blade pierced through leathery hide and sinewy muscle into the chest. A hiss of pain and surprise rushed past Jaga's ear. Dark, cold blood gushed from the wound as the Plundarian writhed, the jaguar's angry growl resounding above the battle as he twisted the blade. The lizard fell dead on the stone tiles and Jaga turned, running down the long hall.
Fire consumed the rich fabrics draping the walls. Orange flames spread down the carpeting like a rush of spilled fluid. The smell of death was all around as ThunDERian and Mutant blood flowed in fierce battle.
Jaga didn't stop. "Claudus!" he shouted, dodging a falling column of flames. "Liana! Where are you?"
"Jaga!" Holding an energy spear, a large, dark shape appeared through the thick smoke. It was Panthro. "They're down here!" And the cat kept going, Jaga following close behind him.
As the great hall curved, the sight at the end revealed a battered down door that led to the dining area. Jaga's heart pounded harder as they neared the doorway. A brilliant explosion shook the walls, cracks shooting across columns and through the solid stone blocks. Dust swirled, mixing with smoke as Jaga and Panthro made it through the door.
A golden-maned lion turned toward them, fight shining in his piercing topaz eyes. Claudus, Lord of the Thundercats held the Sword of Omens in his hand. Blood stained the silver blade, running down the sharp-edged weapon to drip onto the dead reptile at his feet. Behind him stood Liana, who held a red maned cub in her arms. "Jaga, take Liana and Lion-O to safety," he ordered. "Panthro, I need you with me." "Claudus, no--" Liana protested.
"Do not argue, woman. Go!" And he propelled the lioness toward Jaga.
Deafening explosions hit the Lair, the wall suddenly blasting into a tidal wave of masonry and flames, hurling everything and everyone backwards. Stone missiles shot through the air as the world tumbled down. Screams and shouts coupled with the dreaded noise of Mutant flying machines as reality turned a painful white. An anguished cry cut through the sounds of battle, changing to the roar of a Thundercat gone mad.
Jaga held Liana tightly, unable to move. His sight cleared and he half-twisted on the floor. Part of the wall had pinned them down. But for the grace of a large piece of stone, they would have been crushed.
Through the dust and smoke he saw Claudus rise from the debris like an angry god, the Sword of Omens blazing in his hand. Starlike brilliance surrounded the Lord of the Thundercats, his fury exploding as he raised the gleaming weapon. Red bolts shot forth from the sword, cutting a burning swath through the sky as he brought it around. The deadly starfire struck the aerial vehicles, and they detonated in mid-air.
The call for retreat echoed, and the tide turned as the Plundarians began to flee from battle.
The mystic sword clanged amongst the shattered stones at Claudus' feet, the blade reverting to inactive. Torn and bleeding, the Lord of the Thundercats crumpled, falling to his hands and knees, head hanging down as he cried out in heart-rending pain.
Jaga heard a cub's call, felt something squirming against his chest. It was Lion-O, trapped between him and Liana. Suddenly, a chill wrapped around his heart as he realized what had happened. "Liana?" he whispered, but he knew his daughter was dead.
A battle-weary Panthro knelt and lifted the heavy fragment of masonry, pushing it away. Gently he rolled Liana's limp form over. Jaga held onto the wailing cub, ignoring his pain as he sat up. The great panther's eyes shone as he looked at Jaga, then silently went to aid Claudus.
Sorrow choked the jaguar as he looked at his daughter's lifeless body. Her eyes were dark with death's fixed stare, and a trickle of blood spilled from the corner of her mouth.
As they lifted the stunned Lord of the Thundercats to guide him away, grief squeezed harder around Jaga's heart. Claudus' mane was scorched and burns marked his face, chest and arms. Rivulets of blood matted his fur, trailing down his face and from the corners of his damaged eyes. As they passed by, it was obvious Claudus would never see again.
Jaga looked down at his crying grandson, then to his daughter. Gently he closed her eyes, his fingers lightly grazing her cheek. An empty ache burned in his chest as if a part of him had died. "Good-bye, my little one." His voice trembled. "I'll take care of your son and I will teach him well." Through misted sight, the onyx clasp holding back her red mane glittered brightly as the stars.
###
There she was, sitting cross-legged in its center. She didn't answer, didn't even acknowledge he was in the room, just kept staring out the open window at the late afternoon sun.
Tygra went over and stood at the foot of the bed. Still she didn't move. A stab of guilt struck as he looked down at her. It was obvious she'd been crying. "Aja," he said softly.
Obediently she looked at him, her face devoid of expression.
"I understand you overheard a conversation," he said. "I think you might have misunderstood its meaning."
"I understand," Aja said in a tone as cold as Chilla's breath, "perfectly." Her voice rose in angry hurt. "It's very clear now. I'm a black mark upon your nobility--a thing to be pitied and treated like an ignorant child."
"No, that's not true," he said, reaching out to her.
"Don't lie to me," she cried, quickly moving off the bed. "I'm a reminder of what happened to you--a reminder of what you lost, and you hate me for that." Her body trembled, small fists shaking as they rose. Tears flowed down her cheeks. "Well, I hate you! And I wish I'd never left Aviir! At least there I was loved!" She spun, heading for the door.
"Aja! No! Stop!" Tygra grabbed, missing her by inches. He gave chase, stopping in the middle of the corridor. The hall was empty. She'd learned the trick of invisibility quite well. But he knew the trick behind the illusion, and tracking her down would be easy. Catching her spoor, he hurried toward the stairs, following her trail. Descending the steps, he reached level two, nearly colliding with Lion-O. They grabbed onto each other barely retaining balance.
"Tygra, what's wrong?"
"It's Aja. She's upset and she's run away from me."
"Do you need some help?"
"No, thanks anyway." He continued down the steps. That's all he needed--Aja's second source of grief to join in the chase. He paused at the halfway point, looking about. From the platform, he saw the front entrance doors part, and a shadow zipped through the sunlight.
"Oh, no you don't," he muttered, leaping over the balustrade. He landed, taking off at a run, making it through the doors before they closed.
He didn't break stride. In the distance, the heavy black clouds were growing closer. All he needed was for that cloud-burst to complicate matters. He headed across the bridge, cursing himself when he saw where her scent was leading. If she reached the forest, they were both in deep trouble.
###
Energy charged from the demon-priest's hands, saturating the gray granite slab. Suddenly the stone trembled, and a bloody ochre color spread through the fiery bright rock, the glow consuming the mummified organ. Victory thrilled through Mumm-Ra. The soul of the goddess was now locked in the emblem. A final incantation and the spell of manifestation was sealed, to be broken at the proper time.
"Phase two is complete," he said in a low, gravelly voice. "Phase three is to begin--now!"
He turned, his red cape sweeping out as he went to the cauldron of chaos. The thick purplish mud bubbled, an image shimmering into focus in the center. The vision of Cat's Lair sharpened, the sight kindling, as always, the hatred of his enemies. Scrying closer, the mummy saw inside the great, crouching cat-like structure.
The control room came into view. Amid the myriad of ThunDERian technology was Panthro, and the trouble twins--Wilykit and Wilykat. The black panther was at the main viewer and the kittens manned the sensor and defensive units. The Thundercats' guard had increased three-fold ever since two of their she-cats were expecting. He listened closely, and the conversation finally became audible.
Kat turned away from his console, looking across the way at his sister. "Y'know, it's going to be strange having someone younger around."
"I know," Kit answered. "I'm so excited, I can hardly stand it. Pumyra already knows what the cubs are and she won't tell."
"She hasn't told anyone. If you ask me, we should know. At least we could think of some names for them."
A hearty laugh came from Panthro. He swiveled away from the main screen. "Names can't just be picked out of the blue, kittens."
"Why not?" Kit asked.
"Names are very important. The label must fit the product." At the young ones' puzzled frowns, Panthro continued. "Choosing a name depends on two main factors. One being which side of the family the cub takes after and the other is if it's male or female. Our clan background is also important." He leaned forward. "For example, you know me as Panthro. That's my given name. But in my family, we're also given a secret name, to be shared only with those you swear allegiance to. It's a showing of faith and trust."
"Have you shared it?" Kat asked in fascination.
"Claudus knew it. Lion-O knows it, and my mate, Thera, knew it."
"Wow! Will the cubs have secret names?" Kit asked.
"Lion-O and Cheetara's won't. It's not their clan's custom. But Tygra and Aja's will."
Mumm-Ra grumbled. This conversation was giving him nothing but nausea. The thought of two more Thunderbrats running around twisted his gut. But their joy would soon turn to tragedy, he thought gleefully as he looked further. A mere thought and the scene changed.
The kitchens of Cat's Lair showed unusual activity. The blind one, Lynx-O stood at the counter with a mixing bowl in one hand and a spatula in the other. A small, light red and yellow furred cat-like creature raised up on his thick prehensile tail, reaching for the bowl. The black tufted points of the lynx's ears moved slightly. He smiled as the snarf swiped a taste of the concoction in the bowl.
"Snarfer, if you keep stealing the dough there will be no glazed milk-cakes to bake."
The snarf's ears drooped. "Aw, gee, Lynx-O," he replied. "It was only a little taste."
"That's ten 'little tastes' you've taken," Lynx-O said, wiping his hands on a towel that hung from his belt. "Now stop eating and pay attention if you wish to learn the recipe."
The doors opened and an older, darker red snarf entered going to the china cabinet to retrieve some plates. "What's going on here?"
"Uncle Osbert--er--Uncle Snarf...Lynx-O here's baking some glazed-milk cakes for the celebration."
Snarf stopped what he was doing and turned from the cabinet. "What celebration?"
"Why, the coming of Lion-O's heir," Lynx-O said. "It's my family's tradition to celebrate a happy occasion."
"Wait a minute!" Snarf said, his small fists on his hips. "How do you know we'll be celebrating today?"
Lynx-O ran a hand over his short red and black beard, giving a knowing smile. "Let's just say it's a hunch."
"Pathetic creatures," Mumm-Ra growled, his patience wearing thin. Again, he told the cauldron to look deeper. The muddy screen wavered, the picture changing to a view of the medical laboratory.
Chin resting on her fist, a grim Pumyra studied a screen. She sighed, shaking her head. Bengali looked over her shoulder, his expression unreadable. She reached up, flipping a switch on the side of the monitor. The picture faded and she sat back in her chair. "This doesn't look good. Aja has another month before she's full term. By that time the cub might be too large." The puma shook her head again. "And her age is against her. The possibilities for complications are high."
"Possibilities," Bengali repeated. "There's always the chance delivery will go smoothly." He placed a hand on her shoulder. "You worry too much."
Pumyra looked up at him. "It's part of my job. Being a healer has its drawbacks." Her hand rested on his. "Unfortunately, the facts aren't speaking optimistically."
Mumm-Ra sneered at the gentle display of affection between the two. At least it wasn't as loathsome as the times he'd watched Lion-O and his she-cat. Those had been disgusting.
He commanded the cauldron to search further. The bubbling ooze rippled, the visage of Lion-O settling into focus. Mumm-Ra watched, hissing as the lion entered the weapons room of Cat's Lair. He hated that cat and everything he stood for. Time and time again, the whelp had bested him in every challenge, turning certain victory into humiliation and defeat.
Reverently, the Lord of the Thundercats set the Sword of Omens in its designated place. The ruby eye glinted as his hand briefly rested on it. Then, he turned and left, the door closing behind him.
The cauldron shifted again, showing the lion's destination. On the third level, in a large bed-chamber, Mumm-Ra watched as Cheetara fastened the tie of her night wrap. Wearily, the pregnant she-cat eased down on the king-sized bed and lay back, closing her eyes.
Malevolent glee filled the demon-priest for his target had been sighted. His powerful arms raised high, his voice growing louder with each word. "O ancient spirits of evil, give me the form of the fog of darkness!"
The winds howled in a banshee chorus as he levitated, his body growing transparent, changing into a gray-black mist. His now-insubstantial form drifted upward to exit through the sky-vent in the apex. Lightning crackled as he merged with the pitch black clouds covering the sky and the stormy mass began to move forward.
###
Once more an image of the gray woman hovered over him like a memory ghost. Her voice had radiated that same kind of warmth, but he'd felt it deep inside his heart, and the glowing eyes beneath the shadow of the hood stirred memories he couldn't place. If only she had shown her face.
He pushed aside the thoughts as he paused before the door to his chambers. His empathic tie to Cheetara was strong, confirming she was inside. Since their talk in the atrium, he'd felt a renewed strength in their bond. He loved her more than life. The painful admission of what had transpired on Aviir had been difficult, but he realized now he should have done it long ago. Secrets do not protect, they only divide love and trust. Never again would he hide anything from his mate.
His fingertips pressed against the sensor plate and the door quietly slid aside.
Eyes closed, she lay on her side on the bed. The coal black spots in her fur coat shone distinctly through the white fabric of her night wrap. The shiny, loose garment draped across her body, gently conforming to the swell of her abdomen. It was obvious she wore nothing underneath the short robe.
Quietly he approached, even though he sensed that she wasn't asleep. He gazed down at her. Though her figure was no longer hour-glass perfect, there was a radiance in her, a softness and beauty he hadn't noticed until now. He smiled, thinking that soon she'd give him the greatest gift of love ever--a cub. He would be a father. A whisper of doubt crept in and he wondered if he was truly ready for such a responsibility.
Cheetara turned onto her back. Long strands of her black-spotted, amber mane fell away from her face and her eyes half-opened. She smiled up at him, stretching a bit.
"Supper is ready," he said.
"Oh." She sat up, adjusting the yoke of her night wrap, her hands coming to a rest on top of her roundness. After a pause she said, "I'm really not very hungry. Go ahead and start without me."
"Not hungry?"
A small smile turned the corners of her mouth. "Don't worry, I'm--" Suddenly she gasped, grimacing as she clutched her belly.
"Cheetara! What's the matter?"
After a moment, she caught her breath. "Wildcat's been kicking up a storm today." She straightened her shoulders, wincing as she took another deep breath. "More than usual." She took his hand, pulling him down next to her, then placed his fingers on the side of her abdomen.
Surprise made his eyebrows rise. He could feel the cub moving quite rapidly. "Dear Jaga!"
Tiredly, she nodded. "It's not pleasant having a foot jam underneath your rib cage." She relaxed, settling against him.
He put an arm around her. "It won't be much longer."
"I know."
"There's something more, isn't there?"
She nodded. "This sounds so ridiculous, but--I'm scared."
"Well--that's understandable."
"But it isn't logical. We've faced all types of odds. We've fought Mumm-Ra, the Mutants and the Lunataks and won. How can I be afraid of this?" She patted her stomach.
"With Mumm-Ra and the others, we know what to expect. This is something entirely new, something neither of us can even possibly imagine. It's a wonderful, and yet a little frightening, experience that we'll share."
Cheetara looked up at him. "Sometimes you remind me of Jaga."
"Well, he was my teacher. I guess it's to be expected." He paused, thinking back to his childhood, a time that was so care-free. "It's odd. I always felt that he was more than my mentor."
The chime sounded and the door opened before either Lion-O or Cheetara could respond.
"What's this place coming to?" Snarf complained as he entered. High above his head he carried a small silver tray, an oval cover hiding the contents. "I fix a great supper and nobody shows up. First Tygra and Aja, and now you two!"
"Snarf, we can explain," Lion-O said.
"Mrrrt--that's all right. I don't mind. Old Snarf will just keep slaving away and let you take me for granted." With a flourish, he offered the tray to Cheetara. "Anyway, this is for you." He removed the lid, revealing two small cakes smothered in a thick white frosting.
Lion-O sat up straighter, his eyes riveting on the sweets. "Wow! Those look rich." He inhaled, the sweet aroma of honey and cinnamon making his mouth water. "Smells rich too."
"Snarf," Cheetara said, her eyes staying on the tray. "I really can't."
"Gee, that's too bad," Snarf said. "Lynx-O will be very disappointed." He held them teasingly before her. "You're sure you don't want at least a little taste?"
She eyed the tray, temptation clearly pulling at her. "Well, okay, just a bite," she said and picked up a pastry. She bit into it and after a minute, she smiled. "Say, these are delicious." And she quickly finished the treat.
Apparently amazed, Snarf scratched his head. "By ThunDERa, Lynx-O was right. He said you wouldn't be able to resist these."
"Can I have one?" Lion-O asked.
"No," Snarf said. "You're not pregnant."
A low rumble sounded from outside, interrupting them. Lion-O went to the window and looked up. Dark clouds oozed across the golden pinks of the sunset-colored sky. "That's funny," he said as Cheetara joined him. "It was clear a minute ago." Suddenly, a feeling as dark as the clouds crept through him.
Snarf rose up on his tail, peeking over the sill. "Snnnarrrfff! That looks nasty."
"More than nasty," Lion-O said ominously.
"I sense evil," Cheetara whispered. "Mumm-Ra's evil."
The fur on Lion-O's neck and arms stood. He pulled Cheetara away from the window, his foot sending Snarf rolling backwards. Lightning exploded against the metal window-frame, sending a storm of glass splinters into the air. Energy crackled, traveling around the room. It struck the door, melting the seams, overloading the sensor control until it burst like a small bomb.
Crouched down on the floor, Lion-O shielded Cheetara as a burning blackness filled the room. Danger sang through his senses as he looked up into the dark fog, a low growl starting deep in his throat. The horrible mist swirled, taking the shape of Mumm-Ra. Maniacal laughter bounced off the walls as the demon-priest towered over them.
Ugly broken teeth showed in a malicious grin. "There's no escape, Thundercats," the demon-priest said. His red globular eyes set on Cheetara. "This time, I've come for a very--special--reason."
Anger blazed through Lion-O. "Try anything, mummy and you'll no longer be the Ever-Living!"
"Empty threats!" the evil wizard retorted as he boldly advanced on the pair. "You are weaponless, Lion-O, and without the Sword of Omens you are nothing." Hands raised, the demon-priest grinned in triumph as red bolts of magic shot from his palms.
Lion-O cried out, arching as he took the full blast, trying to protect his mate. A vise of fire engulfed both of them, the power constricting like a serpent, squeezing tighter and tighter.
Fighting the force, Lion-O held onto Cheetara, raising a trembling hand. "Sword--of Omens--" he managed to gasp.
"No!" Mumm-Ra bellowed, his hand clenching into a tight fist.
Lion-O choked on the words, a surge of power smothering all thought. He crumpled, consciousness threatening to fade out.
"Leave them alone, you big bully!" Snarf landed on the mummy's head, slamming the sterling tray lid over the demon-priest's ugly face, blinding him for a moment.
Mumm-Ra bellowed with rage, his assault interrupted. He spun, tearing the Snarf off of him and angrily hurling the cat-like creature across the room.
A terrible 'smack' sounded as Snarf hit the polished stone wall. Like a broken doll, he fell to the floor, lying very still.
Fear shot through Lion-O, breaking the airless daze. Cheetara's grip tightened on his arms, her fear and anger merging with his. He looked from the still figure of Snarf to the towering figure of his enemy.
"Enough games," Mumm-Ra sneered, turning toward his prey. Fists at his side, he glared down, an evil smile spreading across his ghoulish face. "Yes! You should see what's in store for your wife and child. And you can be Sekhmet's first victim."
Lion-O and Cheetara rose, clinging to each other as they faced their old enemy. Renewed anger surged through the lion's veins. "No one is going to be anybody's victim," he said hoarsely and lunged.
Mumm-Ra spread his arms, a blinding burst of crimson energy filling the room. Lion-O spun backward, shielding his face, as the bed-chamber dissolved into a glowing, sparkling limbo.
###
It was no wonder. The emotional scent was strong from both of them. Even without a bond, he could have found her with his eyes closed. She was hiding in the nearby thicket, probably thinking she was safe.
Relaxing, he let the tree trunk support his weight and he rubbed the back of his neck. He hadn't meant to hurt Aja, but the pain of the past still burned deep inside him, blinding him to his actions. Neither of them had asked for this. Damn Fate anyway! Hadn't they suffered enough?
He pushed the bitterness aside, reminding himself of the illogic of such a non-productive emotion. He had to resolve this problem and quick. He thought over his options, mentally checking off what he'd already attempted. There was one trick he still hadn't tried. If that didn't work, he didn't know what else to do.
Relax, he thought, trying to will away the tension. Then after a quiet moment, he steeled himself, preparing to cast an illusion, working out the intricate details. Concentrating all thought and emotion in Aja's direction, his heartbeat slowed, his breath growing shallow. The image began to form in his mind.
Tygra's false image stood in the opening, staring at the thicket. Frustration and disgust were reflected in his expression as he snarled, then turned away and walked down the shadowy forest path, finally disappearing into the dark foliage.
Unmoving, he stood against the tree, eyes half closed as he maintained the false picture. Energy burned inside him, absolute control commanding his emotions now. The life-pulse of the forest surrounded him, masking his physical presence. For several long minutes he waited, sweat dampening the fur on his face and back as he struggled to maintain the scenario. Finally, the soft rustle of dried grass heralded the approach of one using caution.
Aja's shadow-darkened form passed and Tygra reached out grabbing her arm. Startled, she whirled around, hissing in surprise and anger.
"Stop it!" he commanded.
Growling and spitting, she twisted, trying to claw his arm.
He caught her other hand in mid-motion. "I said stop it!"
"You don't own me!"
"No, but I am head of our clan," he growled, "and also your mate. Now calm down and listen."
Begrudgingly, she obeyed, but the fire in her glowing eyes did not dim.
"We've both had difficulty in adjusting to what has happened," he said, relaxing his grip on her. "And running from our feelings won't make them go away." He gazed down at her a moment, then in a gentle voice said, "I don't hate you."
"But you don't love me--like Lion-O does Cheetara."
Her words were soft, but stung of a truth he had ignored. "Aja," he said. "What we share is very different from what Lion-O and Cheetara have. I know I've been negligent and I'm sorry, but I do love and care for you-- deeply."
"But not as a life-mate."
"That type of love takes time to grow. It doesn't just happen. The two involved must work at it very hard." Gently, he lifted her chin. "That is, if you wish it."
Her shoulders sagged. "I'm so confused. I don't know what I want. I've never had a choice before."
"Don't force it right now. Let's just take it a day at a time. What's important is that we mustn't hide from each other anymore. We must share how we feel. Agreed?"
Solemnly she answered, "Agreed."
Tygra mustered a small smile. "Good."
Suddenly a chill as cold as winter wrapped around him. A clawing trill of danger struck hard and he looked skyward. The underside of the tree branches were black and the air was like ice where the ugly storm had spread over the forest. A strange feeling prickled the fur down his back as he watched and he frowned, realizing the hideous lumpy clouds weren't arriving, they were receding like some gigantic black tide. This was no storm.
Aja stood frozen, staring in the direction of Cat's Lair. Eyes wide with fear, she turned toward Tygra. "Something horrible has happened."
Tygra sensed it, the smell of disaster in the air. He grabbed her hand. "Come on! We're needed!" They hurried down the twisting forest path. Around them, the sudden darkness dissipated, leaving only the normal dusky shadows of the onset of evening.
###
A damp chill bit through the thin night-wrap she wore and she shivered, hugging herself in an effort to keep warm. Fears, real and imagined, enveloped her heart. Across the empty darkness, memory strobed in horrifying flashes.
The attack. Lion-O shielded her. Snarf's valiant attempt to rescue them....
A chill, not of the chamber crawled, across her shoulders and down her arms. "Snarf..." she whispered. "Lion-O? Lion-O!"
She sought the empathic link to her mate, feeling its strength and clarity. He was alive, but there was something vastly different. There was no emotional oscillation.
The thread of panic swelled. She stood, groping along the web covered wall, following the direction her sixth sense indicated. "Lion-O! Lion-O, answer me! Where are you?"
A psychic cry of danger sounded inside her head and she knew the demon-priest was nearby, watching her. Slowly, she faced the direction from which the vibrations emanated.
Mumm-Ra's hideous laugh echoed through the black chamber. Heart racing, Cheetara pressed against the wall, her nails trying to dig into the pitted mortar.
"Welcome, Thundercat. I've been waiting for you to awaken. Looking for your pathetic mate, are you?" His taunting laugh grew louder. "Then look up, she-cat."
An eerie cerulean hue sparkled like a star from high above. It grew larger, brighter as it descended toward her. Inside the light the outline of a body became visible. Her mouth dropped open, fear robbing her of speech.
Arms crossed in traditional Egyptian repose, Lion-O was trapped within the glittering aura. Vacantly, he stared straight ahead. If not for the bond, Cheetara would have thought him dead.
Anger boiled up inside her. "Whatever you're planning, mummy, it won't work. The Thundercats--"
"Will rescue you?" The demon-priest laughed, and exited the shadows to come into full view. In his larger, powerful Ever-Living persona, he towered over the cheetah. "The Thundercats won't even know what's happened to you until it's too late, Cheetara," he sneered.
The snake-like horns of his helmet glowed with unearthly iridescence. With a wave of his hand, a reddish glow formed, illuminating an altar directly in front of her. The red rock was decorated with carvings of ancient hieroglyphics. On the ledge above it stood a black and gold jar that her eyes would not leave. An overpowering sense of danger pounded through her veins as she stared at it.
"You, my dear," Mumm-Ra said, "no longer carry merely the heir to the ThunDERian throne, but the vessel with which Sekhmet, the deity of destruction, will use to walk Third Earth once more."
Her fur bristled along her neck and arms. "You're insane to think I'll just stand here and let you do this."
"Brave words for one who carries, she-cat."
"I may be pregnant, but I'm not helpless." The baton came loose from her weapons cuff. A mere touch and the power staff lengthened, energy crackling from the tip.
"Harrr! That stick won't help you. There's nothing you can do." His hands raised, magical energy coalescing around his fingers. "Submit, Cheetara! Your fate, and Lion-O's, is sealed."
The blast shot forth and Cheetara barely got out of its way. Though she was still swift, the added weight of her unborn cub made balance and timing more difficult. She swung the staff around, slamming the end against the floor. Mumm-Ra bellowed, levitating as the shockwave exploded against the far wall. Precious seconds were bought and she turned toward the field that held Lion-O prisoner. Her staff came up, the power shooting toward the blue aura.
Back lash surged down the pole and she screamed as the shock flung her backward. The power staff bounced on the floor just out of fingertip's reach. Crumpled in the center of the floor, she sat fighting the static haze of the stun. Her breath rasped in and out as she looked from Mumm-Ra to the altar. Nails of desperation plunged into her soul, driving away the gray fog clouding her brain and she reached for the staff. Suddenly she gasped, cringing as twinges of pain flared in her lower abdomen. "No," she choked, as the cramp spread.
Mumm-Ra hovered just above her. "Ah! How nice! The onset of labor. Perfect, Cheetara, it is as I planned."
The spasm faded and anger replaced the pain. Like a fool, she'd played right into Mumm-Ra's hands. She glared up at the ancient wizard. "I'll be damned if I'll let you touch my child," she growled.
"It won't be me you'll have to deal with, she-cat." He pointed to the altar and the reddish glow flared fiery bright. "Sekhmet! Awaken and come forth." From the open jar tendrils of smoke rose, swirling up into the cold air, intertwining, taking a humanoid shape.
Awestruck, Cheetara beheld the sight of pure energy burning away the smoky blue haze. In the center of the hot brightness stood a woman wearing robes that were the color of blood. Her long auburn mane flowed, glistening like reddish-yellow flames in the light. As if waking up from a long sleep, her smooth furless arms of ivory slowly uncrossed.
Though her form was that of a human, her face resembled that of one from the ancient ThunDERian leo tribe. Slowly her eyes opened, and her angry glass-green glare settled on Cheetara.
Her growl was deep and harsh. "Who dares disturb the eternal sleep of the daughter of Set?"
"O goddess of vengeance, I, Mumm-Ra have called you forth. Once again it is time for you to walk this plane and rid Third Earth of our enemies."
Sekhmet looked down on Cheetara with disdain. "And this miserable creature is one of them?"
"She is and she will provide you with the physical shell through which you can live again," he replied.
Cheetara didn't move, didn't speak. The waves of power the entity radiated felt like ants crawling through her fur coat. A psychic force greater than hers penetrated her mind, and she sat mesmerized as the spirit approached. Sekhmet's long-nailed fingers grazed Cheetara's cheek, her touch colder still than her voice.
"Indeed. She is strong and the child within her will be even stronger. You have chosen well, Mumm-Ra." The apparition faced the malevolent wizard. "Have you prepared the spells of transformation?"
"I have." Mumm-Ra gestured toward Lion-O. "And I have also provided you with your first--er--servant."
The essence of evil turned toward the glittering aurora of blue. Her slanted eyes glowed like brilliant emeralds and Lion-O visibly stiffened as if struck by pain.
"A male," Sekhmet said with a cruel smile. "A cat of great power." She turned, harsh light radiating from her face as she again studied Cheetara. "The sire of the one she carries. Excellent. Then let us proceed."
Cheetara's heart froze as the grips of another contraction started low in her abdomen traveling up through the small of her back. She gritted her teeth, fighting the inevitable. There was no way to stop the process, no way to fight Mumm-Ra and this creature.
Through the mounting agony she looked up into the blueness that held Lion-O prisoner. He no longer stared straight ahead. Instead, his eyes were set on her.
###
Upon arrival at Cat's Lair it had looked like his worst nightmare. Panthro and Bengali were slumped over their consoles in the control room and the others were found in the dining area in similar states. The only ones unaccounted for were Lion-O, Cheetara and Snarf.
He could only surmise that some type of electrical dampening field lingered because anything requiring power in the Lair refused to respond. He stopped at Lion-O's and Cheetara's door and wrinkled his nose. The burned, musty smell was even heavier here. His fingers traced along the door frame and the feelings of angst magnified. The seams were melted shut, still hot from whatever had caused this. A glance at the control panel revealed fused circuits. There was no way to get inside.
"Damn." For several seconds he stood at the doors, frustration building. Suddenly, from down the hall, a silver light flared brightly. The unmistakable warning growl of the Sword of Omens broke the silence. Tygra moved, hurrying to the sword chamber.
In its ornate resting place, the mystic weapon glowed like a ruby beacon, silver light radiating from the blade. The cat's eye jewel embedded in the hilt burned even brighter as Tygra approached. As he lifted it up, the eye opened, the engraved cross bars curling up as it sensed who he was. A terrible feeling of urgency flowed from it as he touched the jewel to his forehead. "Sword of Omens, give me sight beyond sight. Show me what happened."
A glow of power engulfed his mind, images forming as if a portal in time were opening.
Current surged in one massive lighting strike, energy exploding, coursing down in one powerful shock wave, melting cables, fusing circuits and wires. The shock wave electrified the air, stunning the Thundercats. They collapsed where they stood, given no possible chance of defense. Like a recurring nightmare, the shadow of Mumm-Ra fell across the vision.
Tygra's eyes opened wider. "Sword of Omens, show me your master. Tell me what happened to Lion-O? Where is he?"
The scene shifted, and Tygra's fur prickled down his back.
Mumm-Ra savagely flung Snarf aside. Lion-O shielded Cheetara, as the servant of evil attacked. Bright crimson burst through the vision--their screams dying as they dissolved in the maelstrom of paralyzing magic. Rippling waves of blue washed away the horrifying scene, replacing it with glow of pure azure. Inside the light, Lion-O stood frozen and below him lay Cheetara atop a stone table as though she were a sacrifice.
Tygra gasped, his arm slowly dropping to his side, the sword still gripped tightly in his hand. The second sight after-image faded, but a frightening shadow so evil, so malignant sent a chill to his very core. He blinked, drawing a shuddering breath as the power of the sword released his mind. The dark impression highlighted new fears. Not only Lion-O, Cheetara and their unborn cub were in grave danger. So was all of Third Earth.
"What are you doing? That's Lion-O's sword!"
Aja stood in the open doorway, the low light reflecting the red in her eyes. Her hostility was tangible in her stance as well as her words.
"The sword belongs to all of us, Aja," he said, but her expression didn't change. Tygra went to her. "I can't explain it right now, but I need you to stay here. You must keep trying to revive the other Thundercats. Tell them Mumm-Ra has Lion-O and Cheetara and I've gone after them."
Her expression changed to one of alarm. She grabbed his arm as he tried to move past her. "No, you can't. Not alone."
"I have no alternative."
"Then I'm going with you."
"Don't be ridicu--" He stopped himself, changing his tone. "No, you'll do as I say," he said sternly. "You're in no condition to accompany me." Then in a softer tone he asked, "Is that understood?"
Crestfallen, she gave a mute nod.
His heart softened. She was young, eager to become a Thundercat, wanting to belong, to help. He hadn't realized how much a part of them she'd become. He reached out gently stroking the fur of her cheek, then turned and left her standing in the doorway. He regretted having to speak to her like that, but it was for her safety and their cub's as well. He would die before he let anything happen to her. Somewhere in his heart, it was more than responsibility speaking.
He gripped the hilt of the sword tighter, the silver blade glinting brightly in the low lighting as he ran. A clock ticked inside his head. Down the stairs he went, heading for the hangar. With luck, the vehicles were still all right and had power. Otherwise time was against him.
###
He started up the path's incline, the crystalline sands sparkling like a thousand tiny fireflies beneath his boots. As he drew closer, the pastel rainbows coming through the facets of the dome grew more intense in their brilliance. Sometimes Jaga felt that the ancient mystics of the realm were a bit on the flambuoyant side.
He stopped. The rose-colored quartz doors glowed, bathing him in an ethereal light, and then slowly parted. Solemnly he entered the diamond-shaped hall that led to the dome's heart. Soon the hall opened up to a vast chamber and above him spun a crystal orb that pulsed with many golden lights.
Jaga of ThunDERa, a mix of voices, deep and resonant softly said, It is a rare visit we receive from you. We sense your distress. The events on the world called Third Earth trouble you.
"Then you know why I am here."
We do, and we cannot permit it.
Disbelief surged within Jaga. "My family is in jeopardy. Their very lives are at stake. You must permit me to go help them."
Jaga, your people called you the wise one. The events of the physical plane must not be tampered with. You, of all in this realm, know what could happen if the natural flow of destiny was altered even to the slightest degree.
Jaga's gaze dropped to the glassy floor. He could not argue as he knew what the mystics spoke of. "Yes," he said, "unfortunately I do." The pain those words of admission brought was an acknowledgment of his impotence. "If I cannot help them, at least allow me to go to them."
That also is an impossibility. We can allow only one to cross the netherbridge to the physical world and Liana is the designate. We feel your sorrow, Jaga, but order must be maintained.
"Then those I love will be destroyed." With a coldness that now gripped his spirit-form Jaga said, "Very well. Thank you for granting me this audience." His cape flared as he sharply turned and exited the chamber.
Outside the dome, a glowing figure awaited him. Like a beacon in the mists, an anxious Liana stood at the foot of the path. Her concern and unspoken fear flashed in her expression as she looked into his eyes.
"What did they say?" she asked.
"They denied me," Jaga answered softly, "as I knew they would. You are the only one empowered to leave the astral realm."
Anger clouded Liana's beautiful face, and just as softly she said, "That's a lie. You can cross the bridge at any time."
"Against their will," Jaga said sharply. "They cannot risk the balance of the entire cosmos for the sake of one's own emotions." He paused a moment, then added, "Nor a handful of beings on a small planet."
"So you're going to stand by and watch your grandson and his family be destroyed."
Bitter sadness washed through Jaga. "I can do no more. My hands are tied."
"Only because you've let them be tied," she said flatly. "Since you will do nothing, then I will."
"Liana, you can't. The strength of the cub depends on you. If you do not meld at the appropriate time--"
"If I don't take action, there will be no spirit for me to meld with." She hesitated, looking to the glittering speckles of gold and silver flowing in the misty currents around them. "That creature seeks to possess my grandchild and destroy the natural spirit born from Lion-O's and Cheetara's union. I will not stand by and let that happen."
For several long moments father and daughter looked at one another. Slowly, Liana leaned forward and gently kissed Jaga's cheek. "Good-bye, father, I love you. May you find the strength to do what your heart tells you is right." She stepped back and with a sweep of her cloak she disappeared into the celestial mists.
Sparkling white traces of her essence cascaded down in small showers, gently fading into the gray void. Again, the old grief welled up, the pain of loss clouding Jaga's heart. His daughter was gone--this time forever. His family faced certain destruction and he could do nothing but watch. His head bowed, eyes closing. It was then he knew that a spirit could shed tears.
###
His pace slowed and he came to stop at the final turn in the dark passage. At the end of the corridor was the demon-priest's burial chamber. Fiery light danced through the open entrance, an insidious chant sounding mutely in the hall, and an unusual warm tingling sensation circulated around Tygra making the fur on his arms and neck crawl. He glanced at the sword in his hand, remembering the vision and the the physic feeling that had wrapped around him. A virulent presence, not of this world was in that room. As he edged closer, he heard a woman's cry of pain.
"Dear Jaga," he whispered, recognizing the scent-smell mingling in the dankness. "Cheetara's in labor." Suddenly everything made a morbid kind of sense. For whatever reason, the dark spirit permeating the black pyramid wanted her cub.
He reached inside his tunic and took out the bolo. The whip-cord extended and he looped it about his body. A flick of the control and light refracted around him, making him invisible to all. Quickly he covered the remaining distance of the hall and crouched beside a pillar not far from the sarcophagus.
He froze at the sight before him, his horror growing by the minute. Hands bound to a stone altar, Cheetara struggled to free herself, the pains of labor robbing her of strength. At the foot of the altar, Lion-O was suspended in mid-air, immobilized in a halo of blue light. A sphere of energy burned like a ruby sun, hovering high above the immobilized cheetah.
Mumm-Ra's powerful persona turned away from his magic cauldron. Held high in his hand was a golden chalice. Purplish-pink liquid dribbled down the side, burning trails in the etched metal. "The time is nigh. Let the spell of transformation begin!"
He approached the altar, sneering as he looked down at Cheetara.
She hissed, her snarl of anger cut off by another contraction. She cried out, struggling against her bonds, perspiration glistening on the fur of her face, trailing down her throat. Her breath came in ragged sobs as the agony slowly faded.
"Such sweet pain, she-cat," Mumm-Ra grated. "The fruits of your lover's touch. Savor it, for it's the last thing you'll ever feel in this life."
Cheetara turned her face away, eyes shut tightly as the mummy held the goblet over her head. From just beyond, Lion-O helplessly looked down on the scene. The blue light radiating from his prison reflected off the cup as it slowly began to tilt, the purplish liquid oozing up over the lip.
Tygra rose. "Star of ThunDERa, guide my aim." And he threw the Sword of Omens straight at the chalice.
Metal struck metal, ringing through the tomb like a gong. Burning liquid sprayed into the air as the cup flew from Mumm-Ra's fingers. He howled in rage and pain, gripping his hand.
The double-edged blade pierced the force-field, exploding the aura. Lion-O fell like a rock, the sword clattering on the stone floor beside its stunned master.
"Arrr-Rrrr!" Mumm-Ra spun, his malevolent glare fixing on Tygra.
Startled, the Thundercat backed away. It was as though the mummy could see him. He looked down, realizing that he was highly visible. The bolo-whip had come loose and fallen to the floor.
"You interfering wretch!" Mumm-Ra growled. "You shall pay for this with your miserable life."
The red ball of energy glided in between the two and began to change. Astounded, Tygra's mouth dropped open as he stared at the transparent image of a human female with a lioness's face. Never had he seen the likes of such a creature. She was pale, yet darker than any force he'd ever encountered in his long life. It was all he could do to keep from backing away. Her cold beauty belied the destructive power she held, waiting to be born into this world. That thought terrified him, for then she would know no bounds.
"No, Mumm-Ra," she rasped. "Quickly, prepare another potion or we shall miss the optimum moment. I must have a physical form to achieve my full potential." Her glassy green eyes narrowed. "I shall deal with this fool, and I know just the instrument to use for his destruction."
The drapes of her scarlet robe swept out as she pointed at Lion-O.
Sympathetic pain reverberated through Tygra, and he gasped, standing petrified as he watched, powerless to stop the entity.
Lion-O's expression went blank. White-gold light burned from his eyes, darkness rimming their sockets. Madness changed his face into a feral snarl that revealed ivory fangs. Slowly, his hands lowered, razor-sharp claws flexing as he glared at Tygra.
Sekhmet's kohl-lined eyes glittered. "Mumm-Ra, prepare another chalice." Then with a languid wave of her hand, the fire-spirit motioned toward Tygra. "Pawn," she addressed to Lion-O, "the striped one is yours." She crossed her arms, watching in amusement.
Tygra crouched defensively, his eyes never leaving Lion-O. He knew to run would only spur the impending attack. He concentrated hard, trying to break through the entity's stronghold on his friend. Somehow, he had to reach beyond the madness to what was Lion-O and break the spell. He turned, staying face-to-face with the stalking cat.
"Lion-O," he said, hands raised palms up to implore his friend to listen. "It's me, Tygra! Resist her! Remember who you are. Don't let Sekhmet control you."
Claws poised, a low growl issued from the lion as he drew closer. "Lion-O, think! They're about to destroy us." Desperation filled Tygra as he shouted, "Damn it, they're about to destroy Cheetara and your cub!"
For one moment Lion-O hesitated, his growl subsiding. He blinked, the harsh light in his eyes briefly dimming.
Sekhmet's own hiss cut across the short silence. Clenched fist raised, she snarled, "Attack him, you coward!"
Lion-O's roar exploded as he launched at his target.
Two hundred ninety five pounds of raging fury bowled Tygra backwards, slamming him against the floor. Claws gouged deep into his shoulders in bone-crushing strength. Tygra roared, pain searing through his muscles, blood soaking his tunic, running down his arms and back as he fought, his own strength matching the bigger cat's. They rolled, his claws tearing into sinew in defense as he tried to keep his face and throat intact. Slowly, Lion-O's heavier mass forced him down, pinning him.
Suddenly, Lion-O howled in agony, arching as his head snapped back. His grip broke as he turned toward another target.
Ignoring the pain, Tygra forced himself to rise and he gasped when saw the object of distraction. Bolo-whip in hand, Aja stood before the mad lion, her eyes widening in fear and horror when she recognized the beast. The tri-headed weapon crackled with energy as it dropped to the floor,
Galvanized, Tygra launched himself at Lion-O as the Thundercat's powerful fist struck the pregnant tigress, slamming her back against the statue of the Vulture King.
He landed on Lion-O's back, bringing a howl of rage from his friend. Shock stung him when they did not fall. He clung to the lion's back, his knees digging into the bigger cat's sides. There was no time for thought as he brought his fists driving down hard at the base of the lion's neck. Lion-O roared, struggling to throw Tygra off. The evil radiance burned where Tygra hit, the energy singing his hands.
Tygra couldn't let up, couldn't give in to the fears eating at his mind. This wasn't Lion-O. This was some demon possesing his body.
Again and again Tygra struck harder until huge cat staggered. He jumped clear as the beast fell face down. Heat radiated from the fallen cat, the evil spell breaking in an inferno of energy as Lion-O reverted back to his true self.
Gasping for breath, Tygra got on his knees, his hands aching from the force of the blows. The fears broke free as he glanced from Lion-O's limp form to Aja's.
Red darkness eclipsed the emotion as he slowly looked up to see Sekhmet towering over him. Through her transparent form he saw Mumm-Ra approach the altar and once again, the mummy held a golden goblet over the helpless Cheetara. This time Tygra knew he could not move fast enough to stop him even if he could somehow get by Sekhmet. Helplessly, he watched the cup tilt.
Suddenly, the demon-priest stopped, his hoarse cry of surprise and denial filling the tomb, drawing Sekhmet's attention. A burst of light flung Mumm-Ra backwards, the chalice remaining in mid-air. A slender hand materialized, elegant claw-tipped fingers holding the golden stem.
In the red heat, a glittering cloak of grayish mist took shape. Face hidden by a hood, the other spirit became completely visible, standing proud and protectively by Cheetara. The mysterious warrior hurled the cup as though it were a crumpled piece of paper and threw back the hood, revealing her face. "No evil shall touch the child of my child," she delcared.
"By the Star of ThunDERa," Tygra whispered in awe, "it's Liana."
A point of light flickered to life inside Lion-O's consciousness and the same haunting warmth he'd felt earlier that day filled him, washing away the nightmare that seemed so real. In a voice that was barely above a purr, the light called to him. It drifted toward him and he captured it in his hands, drawing it close. The soft pulse touched the very cords of his lifeforce. Part of him came from this spark. Remnants of a severed bond ached in a memory that belonged to a cub.
He struggled against a backlash of emotions, the pain of reality suddenly thumping inside his skull. Muscles aching, he raised his head from the cold, hard floor and the sensations of impending danger crashed across his mind in waves. Fear and agony screamed through the life-tie from his mate. It was time--he had to wake up. She needed him!
The deep indigo faded from his vision and his eyes opened wide. The nightmare had been real! He was inside Mumm-Ra's pyramid. Cheetara lay nearby on a stone table, her broken sobs mixing with her cries of pain. A woman in a gray cloak guarded her from a spirit more evil, more terrible even than Mumm-Ra.
His heart skipped a beat as he stared up at the sight of the gray woman, her face no longer hidden. The warmth and light she radiated washed over him and recognized that touch. Disbelief filled him, his lips forming the word 'Maa'.
The pulse of danger beat faster, disrupting his shock. On the floor, just past the altar, the Sword of Omens glistened in the hellish light. How it had gotten there he didn't know. At this point, he didn't care.
Heart pounding, Lion-O got on his knees and leaned against the base of the statue of the crocodile god. Before him, blocking the path to the ochre altar and Cheetara, lioness faced lioness, each watching and waiting for the other to move. Seconds ticked by, the tension drawing tighter and tighter. He felt Cheetara's distress intensify, her fears and pain flowing sharper through the life-bond. Time was running out.
Abruptly, he stood, hand reaching out. "Sword of Omens! Come to me!"
Sekhmet turned, snarling in rage, unleashing her savage fury in one searing blast of magic. Lion-O leapt, the fire singeing the fur on his legs.
At the sudden diversion given, Liana attacked, both hands unleashing a mega-bolt of ethereal white.
Lion-O caught the sword as he landed beside the altar, half-turning toward the confrontation.
Energy swirled, encircling the red, engulfing Sekhmet. The she-demon shrieked in black anger, writhing and fighting the continuous stream of star power. Her hands pressed against the inner bubble as she bowed her head in concentration. Inside the force field, streams of reds and yellows mixed, growing brighter, hotter. Soon an orange glow burned within the sphere of containment.
Liana grimmaced, the toll of maintaining the continuous stream of energy distorting her image. "Hurry Lion-O," she gasped, "I won't be able to hold her for long."
He obeyed. Using the sharp blade, he quickly severed the ties binding Cheetara's hands and feet and she reached for him. He lifted her free of the stone slab. As her feet touched the ground, her weight sagging against him and he held her close. Sweat soaked her fur, her breaths coming in ragged sobs. Suddenly she cringed, another wave of contraction taking hold of her.
He gasped as the fringes of her pain filterd through their bond. Her pains were growing closer, increasing in strength. Determination intensified as he held onto her. He'd be damned if his cub would be born in this evil place.
"Not so fast, Thundercats," came a familiar harsh voice.
Lion-O half turned. The massive silhouette of Mumm-Ra loomed before him, blocking the way out of the tomb.
The demon-priest's hands came up, fingers curled like claws. Magic glowed in static pink halos around them. "You don't get away this easily."
Out of nowhere, a bolo-whip cracked like lightning. The tri-headed cord wrapped around the mummy's arm like a constricting snake. Mumm-Ra bellowed with rage, spinning to face Tygra.
Lion-O snarled and with his free hand, he leveled the sword, focusing all his will into the mystic weapon. Anger and vengeance flowed freely as he shouted, "HOOooo!"
A white hot blast shot from the silver blade, striking the mummy. The demon-priest screamed, twisting and turning, the onslaught driving him back, his ever-living form slowly reverted to its bandaged, red-cloaked state. His power exhausted, Mumm-Ra fell at the base of the magic cauldron like a sack of broken bones.
Tygra leapt across the short expanse, helping to support Cheetara. "Come on, let's get out of here."
Lion-O hesitated, his gaze going to his mother. Her sunlight had diminished, her power obviously fading, yet she still held Sekhmet at bay. Cheetara needed him, but to leave would mean his mother's destruction. As a child, he had been powerless to save her, but this time--by the grace of the Sword--it would be different.
Without breaking concentration, Liana whispered, "Go, son, I am not of the living world." Strain creased her face, her body growing more transparent by the second. "Sekhmet cannot leave here without a physical form. I cannot hold her much longer. You must get Cheetara out this black pyramid or all will be for nothing. Go! NOW!"
Forcing his mind to close, Lion-O turned away. "Cheetara, can you hold onto us?" he asked.
She nodded, placing one arm on Lion-O's shoulders and the other on Tygra's.
Cheetara between them, Lion-O and Tygra hurried for the exit, stumbling occasionally as the she-cat's legs gave out.
Spiders and beetles scattered in flight. The entire pyramid began to shake, dust and small chunks of loose stone falling from overhead. The short distance seemed like miles as he, Tygra and Cheetara rushed down the dark corridor. Finally, dim light glowed just ahead.
Cool air hit Lion-O when they made it to the outside of the shuddering ancient structure. Above the apex, the roiling black clouds rumbled and churned with terrible power. A harsh glow filtered through the nimbus, painting the landscape in a reddish light.
Tygra pointed toward the nearest dune and they headed for it. There in the twilight was Wilykat's spaceboard and on it, Aja lay as if sleeping. Tygra helped ease Cheetara down onto the sand, then went to check on the tigress.
Breathless, Lion-O held Cheetara, his fears magnifying. The pain she displayed with each contraction grew more and more frightening. She inhaled sharply, her grip going so tight her nails cut into his arm. He had no idea what to do. Even if he raised the call to the other Thundercats, help could not arrive in time.
###
You dared to cross the goddess of destruction! For that crime you will pay the highest price, she raged. Her tight fist pressed against her bosom. Your magic is now mine and you shall be nothing more than the burning desert winds--forever alone, drifting for eternity without a home. Her green eyes flared with hellish light that struck the downed lioness.
Liana screamed, writhing as the radiation enveloped her.
All thought of restraint vanished as Jaga stood. He grabbed the edge of his cape and with a sweep of his arm, wrapped it around him, disappearing in a flash.
White fire and brimstone exploded within Mumm-Ra's burial chamber as the wrath of Jaga the Wise descended upon Sekhmet, propelling her back against the stone wall. In all his power, Jaga's form emerged from the acrid yellow smoke. "I've seen enough," he said in cold anger, slowly approaching the demon. "You are mighty, Sekhmet, but there is a force even more powerful, and that force is love--especially the love of a parent for a child. Threaten my child and you'll unleash a force more deadly than even you can dream of."
All thought of restraint vanished as Jaga stood. He grabbed the edge of his cape and with a sweep of his arm, wrapped it around him, disappearing in a flash.
White fire and brimstone exploded within Mumm-Ra's burial chamber as the wrath of Jaga the Wise descended upon Sekhmet, propelling her back against the stone wall. In all his power, Jaga's form emerged from the acrid yellow smoke. "I've seen enough," he said in cold anger, slowly approaching the demon. "You are mighty, Sekhmet, but there is a force even more powerful, and that force is love--especially the love of a parent for a child. Threaten my child and you'll unleash a force more deadly than even you can dream of."
"Go, Liana." His eyes didn't stray from Sekhmet. "You are needed elsewhere and you have little time left."
A touch as gentle as a feather grazed his arm and he knew she was gone.
Smoke curled about Sekhmet's slender form as she rose from the charred stone floor. Her long robes glistened like red-gold fire. "You think I fear you, old one? I'll crush you like a flea." And her hands slashed the air.
A searing rush of ecto-energy blasted Jaga backwards. Sulfur burned the air, sizzling the masonry around him. The jaguar screamed as the forgotten sensation of pain ripped through his soul-self and only sheer will made him rise. It was clear he had no choice. He knew the consequences of what he must do, but then he had nothing to lose. For his disobedience to the mystics, oblivion awaited him regardless what path he chose.
Jaga's iron-cold gaze riveted on Sekhmet and his arms spread high above his head. Deep inside, he tapped into the very source that made him a Thundercat, drawing into the heart of his soul the power of the Star of ThunDERa itself.
"No!" Sekhmet shrieked, drawing back. "You old fool--don't do it!"
Like a sponge, he drew in more and more power, his shape blurring, melting into a hot, pure white ball of incandescence. Light brighter than the sun spread, filling the farthest reaches of the tomb. The energy of the Star of ThunDERa engulfed Jaga, absolute pain saturating him as he strained, absorbing until he could take no more. He screamed, his will giving way and star fire erupted in a cataclysmic inferno.
Sekhmet stumbled back, shielding her face, her scream of agony echoing in the chamber as she burst into flames. The searing solar current surged, incinerating her robes, burning away her soul as if it were dry tinder. The power of Jaga engulfed her, comsuming her like the dawn destroying the darkness.
The very ground started to quake, splitting the stone altar into chunks. The canopic jar fell, shattering into a thousand shards of clay.
Like a brillant death angel, Jaga turned his rage on the mummy, beams of destructive radiation pelting the demon-priest.
Mumm-Ra's death scream melded into the howling maelstrom. His twisted body crumpled inches from the sarcophagus, burning, turning from glowing cinder into black ash as it blew away in the gales pounding through the pyramid. Pitted stone blackened, cracking and crumbling as the ancient mortar broke apart. The oblisks dissolved like ice. The four statues of the spirits of evil melted like wax candles as the purifying energy saturated the giant triangular structure.
His power spent, obliteration ate at Jaga's being, devouring his existence like a hungry beast. Pain beyond the imagination of living flesh filled the Thundercat spirit, but Jaga struggled to keep on going. With one last mighty effort, he expanded the bright white nova, cleansing away the centuries of corruption that permeated the pyramid.
His essence thinned, spreading out upon the universal currents he radiated. Exhausted, Jaga released himself to the beckoning of oblivion. A soothing peace filled him as he faded like dying starlight in the morning sky.
###
She clutched his arms, trying to speak, but breathless sobs choked her words. Pain racked her body, muscles spasms visibly rippling down across her abdomen. As soon as one peaked, a fresh wave started.
Lion-O fought a sudden panic. "Dear Jaga, what do I do?"
A hand fell on his shoulder. Startled, his head flew up, his heart skipping a beat before he recognized Tygra's silhouette against the dim moon.
"It's transition," he said.
"Transition?"
"The beginning of delivery." Tygra stripped off his tunic, and knelt down before the two. "We've got to work fast. First, we need some light."
With his left hand, Lion-O grasped the Sword of Omens, jabbing the blade into the loose sand. "Sword of Omens," he commanded it, "give us light and heat."
The cat's eye jewel in the hilt flared open allowing gentle rays to spread from it, enveloping the area in a soft yellow glow that immediately warded off the desert's cold night.
Tygra nodded. "Good. Now, I'll need your shirt and we need to prop her up a little."
Lion-O complied, managing to slip off his uniform top as he held a struggling Cheetara against him. He tossed it to Tygra, then lifted her up as the tiger spread his tunic out like a mat underneath her.
"Quickly! Let her rest against you, like you're a chair," Tygra instructed as he braced the she-cat's bare feet against his knees.
Immediately Lion-O felt her push hard against him, her body tensing, her breaths coming in ragged panting gasps. Her fright and panic rose, pounding through the emotional tie, heightening his own. No, he thought, seizing control and smothering his fears. Again his arms closed around her and he opened his heart in attempts to take away some of her pain.
Her breath held, Cheetara strained, her claws digging into Lion-O's arms. A harsh snarl echoed in his ears as he felt her body tremble with effort, her cry dying to a rasping feeble whimper. Minutes passed like years, each cycle growing more intense, draining Cheetara even more. She went lax in Lion-O's arms, exhausted from the effort.
"No!" Tygra told her. "You've got to keep going. Push!"
Cheetara went rigid, a hoarse cry escaping her mouth as she strained, exerting all her might. A harsh scream tore from her throat and suddenly she went limp, but her hold on Lion-O did not break. Only the sounds of her gasps punctuated the new silence.
Lion-O held on, feeling the pounding of her heart in synch with his. What seemed like eternity passed and then ever so faintly, a small cry was heard. He opened his eyes, daring to look.
Wrapped in Lion-O's shirt, Tygra held up the new-born Thundercat. "It's a girl-cub," he said with a smile, then gingerly handed the babe to Cheetara's trembling, out-stretched arms.
She gathered the baby close, looking down at her daughter's face. "A red mane," she whispered, "just like her father."
Lion-O marveled at the miracle. A girl-cub! She was so tiny. A white butterfly mask like her mother's in miniature covered her face. Her eyes were closed, normal for ThhunDERians and he knew they would remain so for at least two weeks. He reached down, pushing the cloth away from her face. Short red hair covered the top of her head. Her light golden fur was wet and flat against her small body. It was then that reality struck. Pride glowed in a huge smile as he realized he was actually a father.
"Lion-O, Cheetara," Tygra called softly, pointing heavenward. "Look."
A glittering light, small as a diamond fly, descended like a floating leaf. Curiously, the three watched it. The soft burning glow of the Sword of Omens enhanced its prismic beauty as it drifted down to settle on the newborn's forehead.
It flared white, a tiny star, and suddenly a familiar warmth enveloped Lion-O. He looked up, seeing the faint vision of his mother smiling down at him. Her eyes closed, and when the small light faded, her image was gone, the warmth following soon after. The cub suddenly squirmed in Cheetara's arms, crying softly.
"Amazing," Tygra murmured, his gaze remaining on the cub. "I'd heard stories of spirit fire, but I'd only thought them to be fables."
A soft moan sounded from behind them. Tygra half-turned, then moved quickly to where Aja lay. In the light, Lion-O noticed the blood encrusted claw marks on his friend's shoulders. As he watched, Tygra pressed his fingers against Aja's neck and she groaned, her head moving slightly in response to his touch. Lion-O felt a sinking feeling grow in the pit of his stomach as flashes of the recent nightmare strobed across his memory.
The flare of approaching headlights appeared on the crest of a dune not far away. The unmistakable sound of the thundertank signaled that help was coming. Cheetara rested her head back against his shoulder and closed her eyes. Gently, he stroked her arm. There was no need for words between them. Suddenly, he realized something had materialized inside his tightly clenched fist. Puzzled, he slowly opened his hand, seeing the glistening shine of a black onyx hair-ornament. Its red-etched cat-image glowed with magic as he stared at the clasp that his mother had worn.
###
"The pain and bleeding is growing worse, and the cub is in the wrong position. The odds of survival for either cat is decreasing the longer we wait. I strongly recommend to surgically take the cub--now."
His eyes traveled back to the scene before him. The central examining table was tented with drapes and all he could see was Pumyra's head. A protective mask hid her face, so he could not see her expression. At the head of the tilted table, Wilykit watched the vital signs monitor, occasionally adjusting the knobs. Tygra took a deep breath trying to ease the knots of tension in his neck and shoulders.
Hopes and fears clashed like opposing tides inside him, building up his frustrations. Anger flashed though him, dissolving the despair. He should be in that room, be present at his cub's birth. He could deliver Lion-O's heir, but he couldn't be with own mate at the time she needed him most. He frowned, mentally berating himself. Who was he kidding, he thought. She probably didn't want him near her after all that had transpired between them.
He smothered the thoughts, knowing he was being illogical, but the ghost of blame kept pointing a bony finger at him telling him all of this was his fault. He'd made plenty of mistakes in his life, but it seemed to him like he hadn't learned anything. Why wasn't he any smarter? His hand pressed against the clear plating. It felt so cold--cold as his heart had been toward everyone lately.
The warmth in the small, enclosed area mounted and Tygra felt his fur begin to stick to him like a second skin. Beneath the light jade robe he wore, the treated claw marks on his shoulders sent out burning sensations that were hard to ignore. Every muscle in his body hurt and his eyes ached, but he refused to give in to the tiredness. He glanced at the chronometer above the door. Outside, night was just about to yield to daybreak.
A dizziness washed over him and he turned, going through the double doors. He had to get away from the heat, the sight...the thoughts. The new coolness cleared his head, and his vision returned to normal.
A quiet bleeping sound marked time in the sterile white room. A lone green light burned steadily on a life support panel and he walked over to the domed unit, sadly staring down at its occupant. Snarf lay as if sleeping, the soft push-pull hiss of the respirator keeping a slow rhythm. Tygra rested a hand on top of the clear plastic, knowing that if Snarf lived it would be a miracle--and a curse.
The soft hum of the nearby nursery unit drew his attention. He went to it, gazing down at the small one inside the gleaming clear bubble. Lion-O and Cheetara's newborn daughter, Lia, slept unaware of the danger that had nearly claimed her life. She was a beautiful, healthy girl-cub. The sight of her brought forth a fond smile, stirring memories of a time long gone--memories he rarely allowed himself.
A tigress of the northern regions of ThunDERa had once commanded his heart. She was as noble as she was courageous. Fierra, the fierce one, had shared his life and given him a family--a future. The birth of his firstborn seemed like it had taken place only yesterday. His son was named Tyrus, he who commands the shadows. He could still hear the child's first cry for breath.
The chilly hands of the past embraced his soul, drawing the pain to the surface. Fierra was gone--a pet to some alien or possibly dead. Only the mystics of the astral world knew the fate of his son and daughter. No matter what he imagined, they were still gone. Vanished...as invisible as the past. The images in his mind faded and he wondered if he'd ever truly be happy again. Slowly his gaze rested on the open, empty unit beside Lia's bubble. Lightly he drew a finger along the edge of the lid, new pain marking his heart as he looked at the inactive incubator.
A touch as soft as a kitten's fur rested on his arm. Startled he looked into two crimson eyes. Cheetara stood close by, concern showing in her face.
"Tygra, you must rest," she said gently.
He shook his head. "I need to be here." Fatigue made the room sway, and he leaned against the wall for support. He rubbed his forehead, trying to will away the grayness eating at his field of vision. "I need to be beside Aja, not separated from her by a piece of glass." After a moment, he looked up at his friend. "Sort of symbolic, isn't it?"
The long, belled sleeves of Cheetara's orange robe folded as she crossed her arms. After several seconds, she finally said, "In more ways than one, Tygra. We are prisoners of our own thoughts and emotions. How long they control us depends on the pain we must face when dealing with them."
Tygra's gaze dropped. "I know," he murmured, finally acknowledging the feelings welling up inside him.
She went to the nursery unit and undid the latch. "When ThunDERa exploded, I lost my mate, my family, my clan--everything, or so I thought." The incubator's lid came up and she smiled as she reached inside and picked up her daughter. Lia fussed slightly, then settled down in her mother's arms. "If I hadn't lost then, I would have never gained this life. I would have never known the closeness we all share. I would have never known the love of the Lord of the Thundercats."
"For every loss there is a gain," Tygra said softly, quoting the ancient teachings of Dera. He looked toward the closed doors. "Somewhere--there is always a balance in life."
At that moment, Wilykit came bursting through the doors. Excitement sparkled in her topaz eyes as she pulled off her green hood and mask. "Tygra, it's a boy! Aja's gonna be fine!" She grabbed his hand, pulling him with her. "Come on! Aja's asking for you and Pumyra said it's okay for you to come in now."
His tension eased up, his shoulders sagging slightly as relief washed though him. Though Kit tugged on his arm, he paused, placing a hand on Cheetara's shoulder. She met his eyes and smiled.
###
Torches burned throughout the fortress as all emergency power was being fed to the infirmary. He counted his blessings knowing Cheetara and Lia were fine. Now if only word would come on Aja. For four hours now, she had been in labor--difficult labor--and for some reason, he felt responsible.
He closed his eyes and rubbed the bridge of his nose in an attempt to ward off the weariness. He had to keep believing everything would be all right. Just as Snarf would be all right too, he thought, trying to shut out the painful memory of his friend's broken body lying on the bed-chamber's floor.
A whisper of cold wind blew through the look-out. Suddenly, Lion-O straightened, his eyes searching the area. He could've sworn he'd heard someone call his name. Turning, he saw nothing behind him but the empty cavern of the mouth, but his senses said otherwise. Something--someone--was here, but the presence was very weak, as if a spirit were somehow dying. "Jaga?" he called. "Jaga, is that you?"
A faint silvery shimmer against the shadows caught his eye. In a grayish aura, a hazy image of his mentor formed, the outline barely definable.
Lion-O stepped closer, a rush of dread filling him. "By ThunDERa, Jaga, what's wrong?"
"Not much time--my power's almost gone." The white bearded face lifted. "Sekhmet...and Mumm-Ra will no longer plague you."
"What--? What happened?"
"No time--" The older cat looked on wistfully. "I wanted to see you--one last time, child of my daughter."
Lion-O stood stunned, the words registering like an electrical shock. His robe fell open, his hands falling to his sides. "Last time.... Child of your daughter--?"
"You are my grandson." Jaga's eyes were now mere weak points of light. "Your mother, Liana, was my daughter." A rare smile showed on the jaguar's face. "You've made me very proud." His essence grew more transparent as if his soul-self were dissolving into the winds. "It is time--to let go. Teach your daughter well, Lion-O." His gossamer form shifted into a blurry glow like that of a sallow candle flame. His voice trembled, growing fainter by the second. "Good-bye...my grandson. My love goes to you all." And his light gradually disappeared.
"Jaga! No!" Lion-O reached out, grabbing nothing but cold empty air. His teacher--his grandfather was gone. Astounded, he stood staring at the desolate shadows where Jaga had appeared. Questions swirled around and around in his mind. All these years! Why? Why had Jaga not told him who he really was? What had happened that could kill a spirit as powerful as Jaga? What had happened in Mumm-Ra's pyramid? What else did he not know--about himself?
Somewhere in the distance he heard someone call his name. Coming back to reality, he sensed his life-mate's closeness and concern and he looked toward the stairwell. Cheetara stood in the entrance silently watching him. He had no idea how long she'd been there.
"Lion-O?" She went to him. "What is it?"
"It's Jaga," he managed to answer, the shock still hurting. "He's gone--forever."
From the folds of her thick robe, she reached out, grasping his hands. They were warm against the chill numbing his fingers. He felt the love and compassion flow from her but then he detected an underlying sadness. A new fear struck like a hammer blow as he searched her eyes.
Her gaze dropped, her grip tightening on his hands. "Just a few minutes ago, Tygra and Aja became the proud parents of a boy-cub. Mother and child are fine. They've named him Garth, after Aja's father." She paused, her gaze lifting to his again. "He's very small, but Pumyra says his chances are good."
"And?"
Her crimson eyes shone in the torch-light. "It's Snarf--"
A coldness not of the wind pierced through him like icy arrows. "No...." he whispered. Disbelief stung through the new pain of sorrow. He turned away from Cheetara, hugging himself tight.
It couldn't be true. Snarf had always been part of his life, had always been there for him, had cared for him through sickness and health. Snarf was supposed to live forever! His vision blurred as he looked up at the golden rays now streaking across the gray blue sky. But even as the thought came, he knew it wasn't true. Death was the inevitable end of life, and now his loyal friend had crossed that threshold. Snarf was dead--gone.
Cheetara's arms came from behind to encircle his waist. He felt her warmth, and the ache in her heart as well. He faced her, reciprocating her embrace, drawing on her strength and love, that vital connection to her giving him comfort. For several minutes, they stood there, the rush of the air the only sound.
Finally, he relaxed, his hand coming up beneath her mane. "You're not supposed to be up," he said hoarse-voiced. "Last thing I need is for you to get sick."
Her look of worry eased. "I'm all right." For a moment she studied his face. "And you?"
He gave a slight nod, his fingers tracing under her chin. "Yeah." He looked toward the rising sun. "And now, so is Snarf."
Epilogue
Bleak and white, the airless void offered nothing. There was no up or down, no warmth or cold, just vast emptiness. This had to be oblivion, but it was nothing like he'd imagined. Close by, he sensed the coalescing of a familiar malevolence and a harsh red light blazed strong and hard. Mumm-Ra's evil essence blazed at the Thundercat, his hatred burning tangible as acid.
Voices echoed as though in a chamber, seeming to come down from above.
Jaga, you disobeyed us, and by your actions have created an imbalance that must be corrected.
I am prepared to accept my punishment.
There was a long and almost frightening, silence. A crystal clarity formed above him and he saw the golden orb of the mystics, its light pulsing like a heartbeat. Four smaller globes of orange fire encircled it.
No, Jaga. Though you disobeyed, you acted out of love and for that we cannot punish you. Even the mystics can learn. In order to keep balance, we and the ancient spirits of evil have agreed to return you and Mumm-Ra to your former places. You and Mumm-Ra have yet to fullfill your respective destinites.
Lightning branched out from the smaller spheres striking the larger one. Power melded and before Jaga or Mumm-Ra could speak, a radiant light showered down on them. The icy whiteness darkened, growing gray and sparkling like the mists of the astral plane.
Mumm-Ra's ugly laugh sounded as his image briefly appeared, his voice reverberating all around. "I will prevail, Jaga. One day, I will destroy the Thundercats." Then he dissolved, leaving the astral world to return to the physical plane.
"Old words, demon-priest," Jaga said. The coolness of the astral dimension surrounded him, and he gathered his cape about him. He was as he had been, and he found himself standing at the water mirror. Though he'd won an important victory, the place was emptier now. Liana was gone. He stared at the glass-smooth, clear water seeing Lion-O and Cheetara in the look-out, their happiness eclipsed by sorrow. Worry clouded the old cat's soul and suddenly he felt something--someone--watching him and he turned. Snarf sat in the distance, a bewildered look on his fuzzy face and suddenly Jaga knew what had transpired. Abruptly, the snarf grinned, taking off in a run, leaping up as Jaga opened his arms in welcome.