A dark day part 4, pg16, V,MSC ,ML
A dark day part 4, By Leanna. Okay here’s the plan,” Schwenk said, “When we get to the space port she stays on board until the money is in your hands, then I’ll let her go”. “And you think that will work,” Roland snorted, “I don’t think there that dumb that they’ll hand over the reward money with out seeing her first”. “Then give them this,” Schwenk said passing over Leanna’s insignia. Roland took the insignia and held it up and looked at it. “That’s mine,” the Lioness said raising her head. “You’ll get it back when were done,” Roland said and pocketed it. “You’ll give that to me now,” she growled lowering her feet to the floor. “Hey now,” Roland said, “You’ll get it back, I’m going to give it to who ever is waiting for us at the space port”. The lioness stood and started pacing the floor, “we’re close aren’t we,” she asked quietly. “Well we’ll be there in about 16 hours,” Schwenk said then looked at her, “How did you know”. She never answered she just paced the floor like a wild animal in a cage. Roland watched the she-cat, “Gaston, do you know exactly who were meeting,” he asked. “Umm no,” he shrugged, “Does it matter”. “It just might,” Roland answered as the lioness walked over to one of the small port windows and stared out at the fast moving stars for a moment before placing her hand on the glass then closed her eyes. “What does it matter who we meet as long as we get the money and get the hell out of there before they realize what happened,” Schwenk nodded then turned and looked back at the lioness who was still standing in front of the small window with her hand on the window, muttering what sounded to him like some kind of chant, “Roland will you get her away from that damn window. I don’t know what she’s doing but it’s creeping me out”. Roland stood and walked cautiously towards the female, as soon as he got with in a few feet, her eyes snapped open and her head whipped around looking at him, she crouched and growled. “Take it easy,” he said quietly and calmly moving towards her, the lioness hissed a warning for him to stay away from her. “I think we better lock her up,” Roland said not taking his eyes off the she-cat. “That’s the problem with cat’s, so damn moody,” Schwenk snorted and looked at Leanna, “will you knock it off, you’ll soon be home now stop it”. Back at the spaceport, Panthro had finally given in and took the keycard from the tiger so he could get some much needed rest after he had eaten what seemed like enough food for four people. He went to his room and plopped down in the middle of the big double bed, not bothering to remove his boots or shoulder spikes and laid back on top of the covers exhausted, he was asleep before his head even hit the pillow. Tygra walked towards to his room that was across the hall from the panther’s he stopped and quietly knocked, when he got no answer he knew that he must have finally fell asleep. The tiger was concerned over the change in Panthro’s behavior over the past few hours, it was more then him being anxious and exhausted, he was starting to become downright aggressive, snapping at anyone who even looked at him. The panther had been asleep for several hours when his eyes suddenly snapped open, he sat up and looked around the unfamiliar room, all his senses seem to have switched on all at once, his hearing and sight were sharper then ever, his head snapped around searching the darkroom as he swore he heard Leanna’s voice. He got up and turned on the light half expecting to see her standing here, but found the room was empty. He growled and walked out of the room slamming the door behind him. This woke Tygra who had just dozed off, the tiger got up and looked out his door and saw the panther just as he went around the corner. Concerned he followed wondering what Panthro was up too. Tygra soon found Panthro up on an observation deck staring out the window. “Panthro,” he said quietly approaching his friend, “Everything alright”. The panther didn’t answered he just continued staring out at the stars. Tygra glanced down and seen the panther’s claws dug deep into the wooden hand hailing, “Are you okay,” Tygra asked concerned. Panthro slowly turned his gaze from the window and looked at the tiger and growled a warning his eyes were dark and feverish. The tiger lowered his gaze and slowly backed away, he knew exactly what was going on now. ** Tygra backed away from the irritated panther; Panthro didn’t know what was going on, he felt like he was about to jump out of his skin, every little noise or movement made him paranoid, every male he came cross was an opponent threatening to challenge him and any female he seen was not the one he was looking for. Once the tiger backed away from him he turned his attention back to the large bay window, could feel the lioness was getting closer; her presents in his tortured mind surrounded him like a warm blanket for which he found a bit of comfort. He could almost hear her voice, touch her soft skin smell her sweet scent. There was also something else; he could feel her calling to him. The panther growled in frustration and quickly turned, he couldn’t wait any longer all his instincts told him to go to her now. “Panthro, where are you going,” Tygra asked keeping a safe distance from the panther, right now the big cat was a walking powder keg. The panther didn’t answer as he continued heading towards the feliner, “Panthro stop,” Tygra said catching up with the panther, “you can’t leave in your condition…. you do realize what’s happening to you don’t you”. Panthro turned narrowed his eyes and growled at the tiger, “Panthro listen to me for a moment,” Tygra said, “I’m not going to steal your mate or challenge you…you have to go back to your room and stay there, your mind is being over powered right now, your not thinking straight and I know why”. Panthro pushed passed the tiger and headed to the ship, “Panthro I know this is a very personal and private matter but you have to stay away from her until we can get home,” Tygra said blocking his path, “she’s gone into heat and your instincts are in overdrive. You have to make sure this is what you both want…. I know you love her but are the two of you ready to bring a cub into the world that maybe conceived if you proceed with this…all I’m saying is wait until we get home if the two of you decide not to have a child now then she can be given something so she won’t conceive, then you can take what you want”. Panthro looked at Tygra, he knew the tiger was right, he didn’t want to force something that she may not be ready for and resent him for it later, it wasn’t her fault she was kidnapped, if she had of been home who’s to say she wouldn’t have take something to stop this from happening in the first place. “Alright,” He said through clenched teeth and turned around and headed back to his room, Tygra breathed a slight sigh of relief that he still had his head and followed him back. *** “I’m telling you Gaston we need to lock her up for our own safety,” Roland said watching the lioness very closely. “For god sake,” Schwenk snorted and put the ship on autopilot “ I don’t know what you’re going through …but knock it off,” He bellowed at the she-cat and took a step forward. Roland quickly grabbed his arm stopping him; Schwenk’s head snapped around and he drew back his fist and punch Roland in the mouth, “I’m in charge here,” he spat. Something in the lioness snapped when she caught the scent of blood, she growled and launched herself at the two men. Schwenk quickly found himself on his back with the lioness perched on his chest growling fiercely at him. “What ever you do Gaston, don’t move a muscle,” Roland said quietly. Schwenk gulped as the lioness leaned forward and inhaled through her nose, she threw back her head and roared in frustration, this was not her mate, she looked at Schwenk and snarled, with a swipe of her hand she raked her sharp claws across his chest and quickly moved away. “Shit,” Schwenk wheezed rolling on his side clutching his bleeding chest, “she’s gone crazy”. “Help me contain her, or get this flea trap moving faster, because we are in trouble here,” Roland said as the lioness stalked towards him. “Is this a side effect from that stupid collar,” Schwenk asked slowly getting to his feet. “Umm no, this is something completely different,” Roland said standing stock still as the lioness moved around him, The human tried to protect himself from her sharp claws as she growled and attacked him. Schwenk quickly grabbed the lioness by the hair and pulled her off Roland, she turned and was about to attack Schwenk when Roland grabbed Schwenk’s gun and hit her on the back of the head with the handle. “Thanks,” Schwenk said as the lioness fell to the floor. The two men quickly picked her up and put her back inside the cage and locked the door. “What the hell was that all about,” Schwenk asked going back to his seat and grabbed the med kit. “She in oestrus,” Roland answered as he sat down. Schwenk looked at Roland confused, “huh”. “Your she-cat is in heat,” Roland said rolling his eyes, “and my guess is by her behavior, her mate is close by”. “I knew things were going too good,” Schwenk sighed. “The closer we get to the space port the more aggressive and irritable she’ll become,” Roland said. “Why the hell is she taking it out us, I mean we are taking her back,” Schwenk said looking the unconscious lioness. “To her we are unacceptable and unwanted males, that’s why she attacked,” Roland said. “So when she was over at the window,” Schwenk said as he cleaned his wounds “She was calling to her mate most likely,” Roland nodded. “Oh that’s just bloody great,” Schwenk snorted, “will he be as moody as she is, what am I talking about, he’s a panther of course he’ll be”. “The quicker we get her to the spaceport the better,” Roland said. “We’ll be there in a few minutes,” Schwenk said putting the med kit away and disengaging the autopilot. **** The panther was in his room meditating trying to calm his body and mind. He was fighting against nature it’s self, but he knew he had to for the moment anyway. Tygra was watching out the window when he seen a ship land beside the Feliner. “She’s here,” Panthro said bolting to his feet and going to the window. “Let me handle this,” Tygra replied, “remember what I said, it won’t be too much longer okay”. Panthro just nodded as he kept an eye on the ship, “I’ll come and get you when she’s on board,” Tygra said grabbing a small case and walked out the door. “Well it’s a thundercat,” Schwenk said seeing the tiger walking towards them thankful it wasn’t that panther. “Okay I’ll go out,” Roland nodded and opened the hatch. “Where is Leanna,” Tygra asked eyeing the human. “She’s inside, money first then you get the lioness,” Roland nodded. “How do I know you have her,” Tygra asked he knew this wasn’t the same man he spoke too before. “Here,” Roland said taking the insignia out of his pocket and handed it over to the tiger. “Alright,” Tygra nodded, “but I want to see her with my own eyes first”. “I’ll umm have to ask my partner, “Roland said. “Your partner,” Tygra said quickly looking back towards the ship. “Just bring her out so we can leave”. Schwenk watched as the two talked outside, “come on man this isn’t a social call, we gotta get the hell out of here”. The human spun in his seat when he heard loud growling coming from the cage, “hey cat, take it easy were here now”. “Release me,” She snarled rattling the door of the cage. “All in due time,” Schwenk said turning his attention back to Roland and the tiger. The lioness roared and started slamming her body against the door of the cage in an effort to break it open. She suddenly stopped and cocked her head to one side, her breath caught in her throat when she realized that her mate was only a few hundred yards away. She took a deep breath and roared an extremely loud distress call that vibrated though out the ship. “Let her go now,” Tygra said hearing the lioness’s distress call. “It’s not up to me,” Roland said looking nervously around. “If you value your neck you’ll release her now,” Tygra warned knowing the panther would show up any second. The lioness called out again and started slamming the cage again with her body, she wanted out and she wanted out now. “Oooh shit,” Schwenk exclaimed as he seen the big panther running towards the ship, “Damn it will you stop it,” he said getting up and going over to the lioness, “you trying to get me killed” She looked at the human and snarled then sudden stopped, her head turned to the door of the ship, “what the hell,” Schwenk said as the metal door started to creak and groan, he slowly backed up and looked for his gun as the metal door started to buckle. Before he had the chance to pick up the gun the metal door gave way and a very enraged panther stormed in, “oh, shit,” Schwenk said as the true size of the panther registered in his mind, he without a doubt could rip him apart without breaking a sweat. Panthro looked at Schwenk and growled, his muscles twitching ready to rip the human limb from limb if he even so much as breath the wrong way. The lioness let out a soft trill sound and reached her hand through the bars towards the panther, “Lea,” He said quietly walking to the cage and putting his hands through the bar, touching her face and hair, he growled softly as her scent filled his nostrils. Leanna grasped his hands trying to pull herself closer, but growled in frustration as the cold steal bars came between them He released her hands and grabbed the bars, in a display of raw power and strength the panther roared and ripped the door right off the cage. The lioness couldn’t speak as she flung herself into the panther’s waiting arms, all she could do was wrap her arms tightly around him and cling to him as if her life depended on it. Panthro hugged her tightly as she whimpered, “it’s okay baby, I’m here,” he spoke softly in her ear. He set her down on her feet and put his hand under her chin and raised her head so he could look at her, that’s when he noticed her bruised lip and cut on her forehead, he stood back and quickly scanned her body for any other injuries, he seen the red welt on her neck, “Did he do this to you,” Panthro asked pointing to the human. Leanna lowered her gaze and didn’t answer, Panthro growled and grabbed Schwenk by the front of his shirt with one hand as he tried to sneak by. “Whoa, take it easy big fella,” Schwenk said trying to stay calm as the panther lifted him clear off the floor, “look you seem like a reasonable guy,” Schwenk said, “Let’s talk this over,” he said trying to talk his way out a whole world of hurt he knew was about to come up. “Tygra get her out of here,” The panther growled as the tiger poked his head in the door, then turned his attention back to the human. “You damn well better have a very good explanation as to why she’s injured,” The panther snarled slamming the human against the wall. “Well umumm that…. that was an unfortunate accident,” He said quickly, “didn’t mean for her to get hurt”. “Yeah right,” Panthro snorted and slammed Schwenk down in the chair hard and went back to the cage to look around. Schwenk went to stand, the panther’s head snapped around, “Don’t you move,” He growled at the human. “Look you got what you wanted so you can leave now,” Schwenk said hoping they would just get out of his hair and leave, at this point he didn’t care about the money, he just wanted these cats gone. Panthro looked around the cage and spotted the chains and rope under the edge of the sleeping platform, the seen the restraining collar lying on the floor. He knew that moment; the human just didn’t find her he was the one who took her off the slave ship. “You lying sack of shit,” Panthro roared and went after the human, “You’re a dead man”. Schwenk quickly grabbed his gun, “Stay the hell away from me you big eared freak, you got that damn she-cat now get off my ship”. The big panther moved with speed and agility that caught the human off guard, in a flash his had his nun-chucks out and knocked the gun from the human’s hand. Schwenk hardly seen the panther’s fist as it flew at his face until it connected with his jaw. The human tumbled out of his seat and landed on the deck with a thud, “please,” he begged, “Don’t…I didn’t mean to hurt her,” He gasped as the panther grabbed him by the throat and lifted him up in the air. “Roland, help me,” he squeaked seeing his friend coming running in the door, “he’s going to kill me”. “You hurt my mate…now I’m going to hurt you,” Panthro growled and slammed the human down on the deck with enormous force, Schwenk felt the air rush from his lungs as his back hit the floor. “Panthro,” Tygra shouted, “Stop, you’ll kill him,” he said rushing over. “He deserves to die,” The panther snarled. “Panthro it’s not our way…you know that,” Tygra said trying to defuse the situation, “I’ve contacted the interplanetary Control Force they will handle these two”. Panthro grabbed the front of Schwenk’s shirt and pulled him to a sitting position, he stared into the human’s eyes and growled before shoving him back down on the deck, he stood and walked out the door. “Thanks,” Schwenk wheezed looking up at the tiger as the breath slowly filled his lungs again. “I didn’t do it for you,” Tygra snorted and followed Panthro outside. After Panthro left the ship he stood and took a few deep breathes to calm his anger, once again his protective instinct kicked in, he could have very easily kill that human without a moments hesitation regardless of the consequences that would follow afterward. “It’s okay Panthro,” Tygra said, “It’s done and over with you got your mate back”. The panther nodded and turned around, “What happened…. You’re bleeding,” He said seeing the sleeve on the tiger’s uniform torn and blood running down his arm. “Just a flesh wound,” the tiger shrugged, “When I took Leanna outside she realized you where still inside the ship, she thought I was taking her away from you and she turned aggressive”. “Sorry about that Tygra,” Panthro said knowing the deep scratch must being stinging like hell. “Like I said it’s just a flesh wound,” He smirked. “Where is she,” Panthro said glancing around. “I put her in the Feliner,” Tygra nodded towards the Thundercat ship, then both men heard loud banging, “Umm I don’t think she’s too happy at the moment,” Tygra said shaking his head, “I may have to sedate her in order to get us home”. “She should be okay once she knows I’m here,” Panthro nodded then the banging stopped, “see,” Panthro said. Tygra walked around the side of the feliner and didn’t know a thing until he was knocked to the ground; Leanna had escaped the feliner knocking him down in the process and ran off towards the main complex. “She got loose,” Tygra called to the panther as he got to his feet, “she’s headed towards the complex”. “Stay here,” Panthro said and took chase. The lioness’s feral instincts had now taken total control of her as she bolted through the complex, thankfully it was late at night and there was no one around and the shops had closed up for the night. The lioness continued on, the sound of running water and scent of vegetation caught her attention and she followed, the sound and smell lead her to a large arboretum, it was thick and dense like the jungles on third earth, with it’s rich foliage of trees, tall grass and ferns. The lioness welcomed the heat and high humidity, instincts told her this was where she belonged. Panthro bolted through the complex following Leanna’s scent that lead him to the large arboretum, “Leanna,” He called out as he started walking up a path looking around. He cocked his head listening, but he heard nothing, he knew she was in here somewhere, his nostrils flared he could smell her, her strong pheromones saturated his senses awaking his feral side, this time he didn’t try to stop or calm it. A deep growl formed in his throat as his eyes scanned the area, he threw down his weapon he was now on the hunt. He stalked through the thick grass; he knew he was on the right trail, what he came across next confirmed that. He stopped and crouched, he reached down and pick of a piece of cloth, it was Leanna’s top holding it to his nose he groaned as he inhaled her pheromones deeply, making his need to find her more imperative. He stood and moved quickly and quietly, he found the rest of her clothing littering the ground as he moved further along into the thick grass, the sound of moving water caught his attention he crouched and moved silently, peering through the thick brush he seen her, the lioness was sit on her heels by a small pond drinking water with her cupped hand. Suddenly her head snapped around, she growled knowing someone was there. The panther didn’t move he stayed where he was, his eyes roaming over her naked body as she stood and stiffed the air. The second he moved she bolted, he growled and took chase. He soon lost sight of her in the thick undergrowth, he stopped and looked around using all his senses to try and track her, The lioness watched the panther’s every movement with heightened awareness as his musky scent filled her nostrils overwhelming her inborn cat senses. suddenly he heard a twig snap behind him, he spun around as the lioness leapt down from a nearby tree, crouching she looked at him and growled, her dark emerald eyes were wild feverish and seemed to look straight into his very soul. The panther snarled and took a step towards her, the lioness growled again as she slowly crawled towards him, the panther stopped and looked down at her, she stopped at his feet and looked up at him and hissed, she reached out and ran her hands up the side of his knees making her way up his thighs and over his hips running her hands over his belt until making contact with his chest. She purred softly and made a soft trill sound of recognition as she rubbed her cheek against his thigh The panther growled and grabbed her wrists pulling her to her feet. A small part of him knew this was not the time or place for this, they should be home not some arboretum in a spaceport sectors away. But it was the arboretum’s surroundings that fought against his better judgment with the sounds and smells and thick lush foliage settings; the feral jungle cat within found this the perfect place to mate. The panther captured her head in his hands and hungrily claimed her mouth, it seemed like it had been a lifetime since he had tasted her full soft lips. The lioness growled and with a display of her own strength, shoved him roughly against a nearby tree and kissed him harder, her hands tugging at his clothing. *** Tygra had the spaceport authorities keep an eye on the two humans as he went to the Feliner to make a quick call home. “How’s it going,” Cheetara asked on the other end of the comms. “Well the good news is we have the men responsible in custody, we’re just waiting for the interplanetary control force to arrive,” Tygra said. “How’s Leanna, is she alright,” The cheetah asked. “She’s umm…not quite herself at the moment,” Tygra said scratching his head and slightly blushing. “She’s not hurt is she,” Cheetara asked suddenly concerned. “No,” Tygra said glancing at his arm, “ she’s ummm…. In season,” the tiger said quietly. “Oh boy,” Cheetara chuckled, “so I take it you guys will be a bit late coming home,” she snickered. “Most likely, she was in the Feliner but escaped, Panthro went looking for her,” Tygra said, “that was three hours ago”. “Oh my,” the cheetah laughed, “Course it don’t help they haven’t seen each other for two weeks,” she giggled, “Tygra just get comfortable, I wouldn’t expect them back too soon”. “Oh I’m very well aware of that,” the tiger sighed, “you tell Lion-O he owes me …Tygra out”. *** The mating pairs roars reverberated throughout the arboretum as their needs were satisfied, the panther released his tight grip on the lioness and moved off her, laying down beside her on the soft bed of moss he pulled his mate into his arms and held her as close as he could, never wanting to let her go. Panthro closed his eyes to rest for a moment, he didn’t intend to fall asleep but his body decided other wise. Moments later the sound of someone moving through the underbrush woke him with a start, he quickly looked over at his sleeping mate, he move and got into a defensive crouch and growled as he picked up the scent of another male. The grounds keeper of the arboretum had heard a noise and had come to investigate, he stopped dead in his tracks when he came upon the couple, he took one look at the snarling naked and rather large panther and gulped, he seen the woman curled up on the moss bed beside him. The panther snarled again flexing his long sharp claws and bearing his teeth. His muscles twitched in anticipation, his toes dug into the moss ready to attack if the stranger made one step towards him or the lioness. The grounds keep wasn’t sure what he should do, the arboretum was due to open in half an hour and with these two here he knew he had to do something. The sound of the panther’s growling woke Leanna, she opened her eyes and sat up that’s when she seen the grounds keeper. She looked over at the irritated panther and gently placed her hand on his arm to calm him. The panther was so focused on the grounds keeper he didn’t feel the lioness’s hand on his arm, Leanna moved and positioned herself in front of him, she wrapped one arms around his waist and pressed her body against his chest. She laid her head on his shoulder her face nuzzling his neck and purred softly, stroking the side of his neck and cheek with her free hand. Panthro looked down and smiled and wrapped his arm around the lioness. When the panther was distracted the grounds keeper took that opportunity to bolt. The panther’s head snapped around and he went to go after the intruder but Leanna tightened her grip on him. “Let him go,” she whispered softly, “He means us no harm”. Panthro growled then sat down on the bed of moss, his mind was still a bit clouded from the effect of the lioness’s pheromones. The panther pulled the lioness onto his lap and held her tightly as his mind began to clear. The lioness looked up at him with tear filled eyes. “Lea,” He said quietly wiping a tear from her cheek with his thumb,” I didn’t hurt you did I,” he asked concerned. “No,” she said shaking her head, “I just missed you so much,” She said quietly hugging him tightly, “I didn’t think I’d ever see you again”. “Now Lea,” he said lifting her chin “you should have known I would have never given up until I found you,” he said stroking her cheek with the back of his strong fingers. The lioness looked at him and smiled, “knowing you, no you wouldn’t of’. “We better head back, Tygra is probably wondering where we are,” Panthro said. “And before the grounds keeper bring back the authorities,” Leanna snickered then looked around, “umm, I seem to have a problem”. “Oh,” Panthro said looking at her confused. “I umm, don’t know where my clothes are,” she said biting her bottom lip. “Oh,” Panthro chuckled trying to remember where he dropped them, “stay here a minute and I’ll go look”. Leanna moved of his lap and sat back down on the soft moss while the panther found his trunks and went to find the rest of their clothing. When he returned a few minutes later he had a big grin on his face, “well I got good news and bad new,” he said,” the good new is I found mostly all my stuff ..The bad news I only found a few things of yours that were salvageable”. “Oh boy… like what,” he asked. “Well I found your skirt and part of your top, but couldn’t find your shoes or umm under things,” he smirked handing her the bundle. “Oh well better then walking out completely naked, “she chuckled and looked at her shredded top and tied it around her breasts, “at least I’m covered…. Well somewhat anyway,” she said putting on the skirt that now was more like a loincloth. “It’s a new fashion statement, I should turn a few heads,” she winked. “Ooh no,” the panther growled looking at the lioness’s barely covered golden body, “I will get you something more appropriate to wear when the shops open up”. “The only thing I want is to sleep and be with you,” she said wrapping her arms around the panther waist and laying her head on his chest. “We’ll rest on the way home,” Panthro said planting a kiss on the top of her head. Tygra was speaking to Mandora when he turned and saw the panther and lioness walking from the complex hand in hand; he had to hide a smirk seeing the lioness’s state of dress as she walked barefoot towards him. “Don’t worry Thundercats.” Mandora said, “these two will be taken care of, “she said nodding to the two human males. “Hey I didn’t do anything,” Schwnek protested, “I was the one who brought her back, he is the one who should be going to jail,” he said pointing at the panther, “I want him charged with assault and I also want him to pay for the damage he done to my ship”. “You’re lucky I didn’t rip off your head and shove it so far up your ass you could see what you ate for breakfast a week ago,” Panthro snarled, “that can still be arranged”. “See, see, told you…. he just admitted he assaulted me,” Schwenk said turning to Mandora, “he just threatened me again”. Mandora just shook her head, “stupid bloody cat’s…. that’s justice for you, he can go around assaulting people and get away with it, “Schwenk said as he and Roland were being dragged off, “You haven’t heard the last of Gaston Schwenk…this is far from over cat’s……I will be back,” he shouted as he was put on the interplanetary control force ship.
A dark day part 4, By Leanna. Okay here’s the plan,” Schwenk said, “When we get to the space port she stays on board until the money is in your hands, then I’ll let her go”. “And you think that will work,” Roland snorted, “I don’t think there that dumb that they’ll hand over the reward money with out seeing her first”. “Then give them this,” Schwenk said passing over Leanna’s insignia. Roland took the insignia and held it up and looked at it. “That’s mine,” the Lioness said raising her head. “You’ll get it back when were done,” Roland said and pocketed it. “You’ll give that to me now,” she growled lowering her feet to the floor. “Hey now,” Roland said, “You’ll get it back, I’m going to give it to who ever is waiting for us at the space port”. The lioness stood and started pacing the floor, “we’re close aren’t we,” she asked quietly. “Well we’ll be there in about 16 hours,” Schwenk said then looked at her, “How did you know”. She never answered she just paced the floor like a wild animal in a cage. Roland watched the she-cat, “Gaston, do you know exactly who were meeting,” he asked. “Umm no,” he shrugged, “Does it matter”. “It just might,” Roland answered as the lioness walked over to one of the small port windows and stared out at the fast moving stars for a moment before placing her hand on the glass then closed her eyes. “What does it matter who we meet as long as we get the money and get the hell out of there before they realize what happened,” Schwenk nodded then turned and looked back at the lioness who was still standing in front of the small window with her hand on the window, muttering what sounded to him like some kind of chant, “Roland will you get her away from that damn window. I don’t know what she’s doing but it’s creeping me out”. Roland stood and walked cautiously towards the female, as soon as he got with in a few feet, her eyes snapped open and her head whipped around looking at him, she crouched and growled. “Take it easy,” he said quietly and calmly moving towards her, the lioness hissed a warning for him to stay away from her. “I think we better lock her up,” Roland said not taking his eyes off the she-cat. “That’s the problem with cat’s, so damn moody,” Schwenk snorted and looked at Leanna, “will you knock it off, you’ll soon be home now stop it”. Back at the spaceport, Panthro had finally given in and took the keycard from the tiger so he could get some much needed rest after he had eaten what seemed like enough food for four people. He went to his room and plopped down in the middle of the big double bed, not bothering to remove his boots or shoulder spikes and laid back on top of the covers exhausted, he was asleep before his head even hit the pillow. Tygra walked towards to his room that was across the hall from the panther’s he stopped and quietly knocked, when he got no answer he knew that he must have finally fell asleep. The tiger was concerned over the change in Panthro’s behavior over the past few hours, it was more then him being anxious and exhausted, he was starting to become downright aggressive, snapping at anyone who even looked at him. The panther had been asleep for several hours when his eyes suddenly snapped open, he sat up and looked around the unfamiliar room, all his senses seem to have switched on all at once, his hearing and sight were sharper then ever, his head snapped around searching the darkroom as he swore he heard Leanna’s voice. He got up and turned on the light half expecting to see her standing here, but found the room was empty. He growled and walked out of the room slamming the door behind him. This woke Tygra who had just dozed off, the tiger got up and looked out his door and saw the panther just as he went around the corner. Concerned he followed wondering what Panthro was up too. Tygra soon found Panthro up on an observation deck staring out the window. “Panthro,” he said quietly approaching his friend, “Everything alright”. The panther didn’t answered he just continued staring out at the stars. Tygra glanced down and seen the panther’s claws dug deep into the wooden hand hailing, “Are you okay,” Tygra asked concerned. Panthro slowly turned his gaze from the window and looked at the tiger and growled a warning his eyes were dark and feverish. The tiger lowered his gaze and slowly backed away, he knew exactly what was going on now. ** Tygra backed away from the irritated panther; Panthro didn’t know what was going on, he felt like he was about to jump out of his skin, every little noise or movement made him paranoid, every male he came cross was an opponent threatening to challenge him and any female he seen was not the one he was looking for. Once the tiger backed away from him he turned his attention back to the large bay window, could feel the lioness was getting closer; her presents in his tortured mind surrounded him like a warm blanket for which he found a bit of comfort. He could almost hear her voice, touch her soft skin smell her sweet scent. There was also something else; he could feel her calling to him. The panther growled in frustration and quickly turned, he couldn’t wait any longer all his instincts told him to go to her now. “Panthro, where are you going,” Tygra asked keeping a safe distance from the panther, right now the big cat was a walking powder keg. The panther didn’t answer as he continued heading towards the feliner, “Panthro stop,” Tygra said catching up with the panther, “you can’t leave in your condition…. you do realize what’s happening to you don’t you”. Panthro turned narrowed his eyes and growled at the tiger, “Panthro listen to me for a moment,” Tygra said, “I’m not going to steal your mate or challenge you…you have to go back to your room and stay there, your mind is being over powered right now, your not thinking straight and I know why”. Panthro pushed passed the tiger and headed to the ship, “Panthro I know this is a very personal and private matter but you have to stay away from her until we can get home,” Tygra said blocking his path, “she’s gone into heat and your instincts are in overdrive. You have to make sure this is what you both want…. I know you love her but are the two of you ready to bring a cub into the world that maybe conceived if you proceed with this…all I’m saying is wait until we get home if the two of you decide not to have a child now then she can be given something so she won’t conceive, then you can take what you want”. Panthro looked at Tygra, he knew the tiger was right, he didn’t want to force something that she may not be ready for and resent him for it later, it wasn’t her fault she was kidnapped, if she had of been home who’s to say she wouldn’t have take something to stop this from happening in the first place. “Alright,” He said through clenched teeth and turned around and headed back to his room, Tygra breathed a slight sigh of relief that he still had his head and followed him back. *** “I’m telling you Gaston we need to lock her up for our own safety,” Roland said watching the lioness very closely. “For god sake,” Schwenk snorted and put the ship on autopilot “ I don’t know what you’re going through …but knock it off,” He bellowed at the she-cat and took a step forward. Roland quickly grabbed his arm stopping him; Schwenk’s head snapped around and he drew back his fist and punch Roland in the mouth, “I’m in charge here,” he spat. Something in the lioness snapped when she caught the scent of blood, she growled and launched herself at the two men. Schwenk quickly found himself on his back with the lioness perched on his chest growling fiercely at him. “What ever you do Gaston, don’t move a muscle,” Roland said quietly. Schwenk gulped as the lioness leaned forward and inhaled through her nose, she threw back her head and roared in frustration, this was not her mate, she looked at Schwenk and snarled, with a swipe of her hand she raked her sharp claws across his chest and quickly moved away. “Shit,” Schwenk wheezed rolling on his side clutching his bleeding chest, “she’s gone crazy”. “Help me contain her, or get this flea trap moving faster, because we are in trouble here,” Roland said as the lioness stalked towards him. “Is this a side effect from that stupid collar,” Schwenk asked slowly getting to his feet. “Umm no, this is something completely different,” Roland said standing stock still as the lioness moved around him, The human tried to protect himself from her sharp claws as she growled and attacked him. Schwenk quickly grabbed the lioness by the hair and pulled her off Roland, she turned and was about to attack Schwenk when Roland grabbed Schwenk’s gun and hit her on the back of the head with the handle. “Thanks,” Schwenk said as the lioness fell to the floor. The two men quickly picked her up and put her back inside the cage and locked the door. “What the hell was that all about,” Schwenk asked going back to his seat and grabbed the med kit. “She in oestrus,” Roland answered as he sat down. Schwenk looked at Roland confused, “huh”. “Your she-cat is in heat,” Roland said rolling his eyes, “and my guess is by her behavior, her mate is close by”. “I knew things were going too good,” Schwenk sighed. “The closer we get to the space port the more aggressive and irritable she’ll become,” Roland said. “Why the hell is she taking it out us, I mean we are taking her back,” Schwenk said looking the unconscious lioness. “To her we are unacceptable and unwanted males, that’s why she attacked,” Roland said. “So when she was over at the window,” Schwenk said as he cleaned his wounds “She was calling to her mate most likely,” Roland nodded. “Oh that’s just bloody great,” Schwenk snorted, “will he be as moody as she is, what am I talking about, he’s a panther of course he’ll be”. “The quicker we get her to the spaceport the better,” Roland said. “We’ll be there in a few minutes,” Schwenk said putting the med kit away and disengaging the autopilot. **** The panther was in his room meditating trying to calm his body and mind. He was fighting against nature it’s self, but he knew he had to for the moment anyway. Tygra was watching out the window when he seen a ship land beside the Feliner. “She’s here,” Panthro said bolting to his feet and going to the window. “Let me handle this,” Tygra replied, “remember what I said, it won’t be too much longer okay”. Panthro just nodded as he kept an eye on the ship, “I’ll come and get you when she’s on board,” Tygra said grabbing a small case and walked out the door. “Well it’s a thundercat,” Schwenk said seeing the tiger walking towards them thankful it wasn’t that panther. “Okay I’ll go out,” Roland nodded and opened the hatch. “Where is Leanna,” Tygra asked eyeing the human. “She’s inside, money first then you get the lioness,” Roland nodded. “How do I know you have her,” Tygra asked he knew this wasn’t the same man he spoke too before. “Here,” Roland said taking the insignia out of his pocket and handed it over to the tiger. “Alright,” Tygra nodded, “but I want to see her with my own eyes first”. “I’ll umm have to ask my partner, “Roland said. “Your partner,” Tygra said quickly looking back towards the ship. “Just bring her out so we can leave”. Schwenk watched as the two talked outside, “come on man this isn’t a social call, we gotta get the hell out of here”. The human spun in his seat when he heard loud growling coming from the cage, “hey cat, take it easy were here now”. “Release me,” She snarled rattling the door of the cage. “All in due time,” Schwenk said turning his attention back to Roland and the tiger. The lioness roared and started slamming her body against the door of the cage in an effort to break it open. She suddenly stopped and cocked her head to one side, her breath caught in her throat when she realized that her mate was only a few hundred yards away. She took a deep breath and roared an extremely loud distress call that vibrated though out the ship. “Let her go now,” Tygra said hearing the lioness’s distress call. “It’s not up to me,” Roland said looking nervously around. “If you value your neck you’ll release her now,” Tygra warned knowing the panther would show up any second. The lioness called out again and started slamming the cage again with her body, she wanted out and she wanted out now. “Oooh shit,” Schwenk exclaimed as he seen the big panther running towards the ship, “Damn it will you stop it,” he said getting up and going over to the lioness, “you trying to get me killed” She looked at the human and snarled then sudden stopped, her head turned to the door of the ship, “what the hell,” Schwenk said as the metal door started to creak and groan, he slowly backed up and looked for his gun as the metal door started to buckle. Before he had the chance to pick up the gun the metal door gave way and a very enraged panther stormed in, “oh, shit,” Schwenk said as the true size of the panther registered in his mind, he without a doubt could rip him apart without breaking a sweat. Panthro looked at Schwenk and growled, his muscles twitching ready to rip the human limb from limb if he even so much as breath the wrong way. The lioness let out a soft trill sound and reached her hand through the bars towards the panther, “Lea,” He said quietly walking to the cage and putting his hands through the bar, touching her face and hair, he growled softly as her scent filled his nostrils. Leanna grasped his hands trying to pull herself closer, but growled in frustration as the cold steal bars came between them He released her hands and grabbed the bars, in a display of raw power and strength the panther roared and ripped the door right off the cage. The lioness couldn’t speak as she flung herself into the panther’s waiting arms, all she could do was wrap her arms tightly around him and cling to him as if her life depended on it. Panthro hugged her tightly as she whimpered, “it’s okay baby, I’m here,” he spoke softly in her ear. He set her down on her feet and put his hand under her chin and raised her head so he could look at her, that’s when he noticed her bruised lip and cut on her forehead, he stood back and quickly scanned her body for any other injuries, he seen the red welt on her neck, “Did he do this to you,” Panthro asked pointing to the human. Leanna lowered her gaze and didn’t answer, Panthro growled and grabbed Schwenk by the front of his shirt with one hand as he tried to sneak by. “Whoa, take it easy big fella,” Schwenk said trying to stay calm as the panther lifted him clear off the floor, “look you seem like a reasonable guy,” Schwenk said, “Let’s talk this over,” he said trying to talk his way out a whole world of hurt he knew was about to come up. “Tygra get her out of here,” The panther growled as the tiger poked his head in the door, then turned his attention back to the human. “You damn well better have a very good explanation as to why she’s injured,” The panther snarled slamming the human against the wall. “Well umumm that…. that was an unfortunate accident,” He said quickly, “didn’t mean for her to get hurt”. “Yeah right,” Panthro snorted and slammed Schwenk down in the chair hard and went back to the cage to look around. Schwenk went to stand, the panther’s head snapped around, “Don’t you move,” He growled at the human. “Look you got what you wanted so you can leave now,” Schwenk said hoping they would just get out of his hair and leave, at this point he didn’t care about the money, he just wanted these cats gone. Panthro looked around the cage and spotted the chains and rope under the edge of the sleeping platform, the seen the restraining collar lying on the floor. He knew that moment; the human just didn’t find her he was the one who took her off the slave ship. “You lying sack of shit,” Panthro roared and went after the human, “You’re a dead man”. Schwenk quickly grabbed his gun, “Stay the hell away from me you big eared freak, you got that damn she-cat now get off my ship”. The big panther moved with speed and agility that caught the human off guard, in a flash his had his nun-chucks out and knocked the gun from the human’s hand. Schwenk hardly seen the panther’s fist as it flew at his face until it connected with his jaw. The human tumbled out of his seat and landed on the deck with a thud, “please,” he begged, “Don’t…I didn’t mean to hurt her,” He gasped as the panther grabbed him by the throat and lifted him up in the air. “Roland, help me,” he squeaked seeing his friend coming running in the door, “he’s going to kill me”. “You hurt my mate…now I’m going to hurt you,” Panthro growled and slammed the human down on the deck with enormous force, Schwenk felt the air rush from his lungs as his back hit the floor. “Panthro,” Tygra shouted, “Stop, you’ll kill him,” he said rushing over. “He deserves to die,” The panther snarled. “Panthro it’s not our way…you know that,” Tygra said trying to defuse the situation, “I’ve contacted the interplanetary Control Force they will handle these two”. Panthro grabbed the front of Schwenk’s shirt and pulled him to a sitting position, he stared into the human’s eyes and growled before shoving him back down on the deck, he stood and walked out the door. “Thanks,” Schwenk wheezed looking up at the tiger as the breath slowly filled his lungs again. “I didn’t do it for you,” Tygra snorted and followed Panthro outside. After Panthro left the ship he stood and took a few deep breathes to calm his anger, once again his protective instinct kicked in, he could have very easily kill that human without a moments hesitation regardless of the consequences that would follow afterward. “It’s okay Panthro,” Tygra said, “It’s done and over with you got your mate back”. The panther nodded and turned around, “What happened…. You’re bleeding,” He said seeing the sleeve on the tiger’s uniform torn and blood running down his arm. “Just a flesh wound,” the tiger shrugged, “When I took Leanna outside she realized you where still inside the ship, she thought I was taking her away from you and she turned aggressive”. “Sorry about that Tygra,” Panthro said knowing the deep scratch must being stinging like hell. “Like I said it’s just a flesh wound,” He smirked. “Where is she,” Panthro said glancing around. “I put her in the Feliner,” Tygra nodded towards the Thundercat ship, then both men heard loud banging, “Umm I don’t think she’s too happy at the moment,” Tygra said shaking his head, “I may have to sedate her in order to get us home”. “She should be okay once she knows I’m here,” Panthro nodded then the banging stopped, “see,” Panthro said. Tygra walked around the side of the feliner and didn’t know a thing until he was knocked to the ground; Leanna had escaped the feliner knocking him down in the process and ran off towards the main complex. “She got loose,” Tygra called to the panther as he got to his feet, “she’s headed towards the complex”. “Stay here,” Panthro said and took chase. The lioness’s feral instincts had now taken total control of her as she bolted through the complex, thankfully it was late at night and there was no one around and the shops had closed up for the night. The lioness continued on, the sound of running water and scent of vegetation caught her attention and she followed, the sound and smell lead her to a large arboretum, it was thick and dense like the jungles on third earth, with it’s rich foliage of trees, tall grass and ferns. The lioness welcomed the heat and high humidity, instincts told her this was where she belonged. Panthro bolted through the complex following Leanna’s scent that lead him to the large arboretum, “Leanna,” He called out as he started walking up a path looking around. He cocked his head listening, but he heard nothing, he knew she was in here somewhere, his nostrils flared he could smell her, her strong pheromones saturated his senses awaking his feral side, this time he didn’t try to stop or calm it. A deep growl formed in his throat as his eyes scanned the area, he threw down his weapon he was now on the hunt. He stalked through the thick grass; he knew he was on the right trail, what he came across next confirmed that. He stopped and crouched, he reached down and pick of a piece of cloth, it was Leanna’s top holding it to his nose he groaned as he inhaled her pheromones deeply, making his need to find her more imperative. He stood and moved quickly and quietly, he found the rest of her clothing littering the ground as he moved further along into the thick grass, the sound of moving water caught his attention he crouched and moved silently, peering through the thick brush he seen her, the lioness was sit on her heels by a small pond drinking water with her cupped hand. Suddenly her head snapped around, she growled knowing someone was there. The panther didn’t move he stayed where he was, his eyes roaming over her naked body as she stood and stiffed the air. The second he moved she bolted, he growled and took chase. He soon lost sight of her in the thick undergrowth, he stopped and looked around using all his senses to try and track her, The lioness watched the panther’s every movement with heightened awareness as his musky scent filled her nostrils overwhelming her inborn cat senses. suddenly he heard a twig snap behind him, he spun around as the lioness leapt down from a nearby tree, crouching she looked at him and growled, her dark emerald eyes were wild feverish and seemed to look straight into his very soul. The panther snarled and took a step towards her, the lioness growled again as she slowly crawled towards him, the panther stopped and looked down at her, she stopped at his feet and looked up at him and hissed, she reached out and ran her hands up the side of his knees making her way up his thighs and over his hips running her hands over his belt until making contact with his chest. She purred softly and made a soft trill sound of recognition as she rubbed her cheek against his thigh The panther growled and grabbed her wrists pulling her to her feet. A small part of him knew this was not the time or place for this, they should be home not some arboretum in a spaceport sectors away. But it was the arboretum’s surroundings that fought against his better judgment with the sounds and smells and thick lush foliage settings; the feral jungle cat within found this the perfect place to mate. The panther captured her head in his hands and hungrily claimed her mouth, it seemed like it had been a lifetime since he had tasted her full soft lips. The lioness growled and with a display of her own strength, shoved him roughly against a nearby tree and kissed him harder, her hands tugging at his clothing. *** Tygra had the spaceport authorities keep an eye on the two humans as he went to the Feliner to make a quick call home. “How’s it going,” Cheetara asked on the other end of the comms. “Well the good news is we have the men responsible in custody, we’re just waiting for the interplanetary control force to arrive,” Tygra said. “How’s Leanna, is she alright,” The cheetah asked. “She’s umm…not quite herself at the moment,” Tygra said scratching his head and slightly blushing. “She’s not hurt is she,” Cheetara asked suddenly concerned. “No,” Tygra said glancing at his arm, “ she’s ummm…. In season,” the tiger said quietly. “Oh boy,” Cheetara chuckled, “so I take it you guys will be a bit late coming home,” she snickered. “Most likely, she was in the Feliner but escaped, Panthro went looking for her,” Tygra said, “that was three hours ago”. “Oh my,” the cheetah laughed, “Course it don’t help they haven’t seen each other for two weeks,” she giggled, “Tygra just get comfortable, I wouldn’t expect them back too soon”. “Oh I’m very well aware of that,” the tiger sighed, “you tell Lion-O he owes me …Tygra out”. *** The mating pairs roars reverberated throughout the arboretum as their needs were satisfied, the panther released his tight grip on the lioness and moved off her, laying down beside her on the soft bed of moss he pulled his mate into his arms and held her as close as he could, never wanting to let her go. Panthro closed his eyes to rest for a moment, he didn’t intend to fall asleep but his body decided other wise. Moments later the sound of someone moving through the underbrush woke him with a start, he quickly looked over at his sleeping mate, he move and got into a defensive crouch and growled as he picked up the scent of another male. The grounds keeper of the arboretum had heard a noise and had come to investigate, he stopped dead in his tracks when he came upon the couple, he took one look at the snarling naked and rather large panther and gulped, he seen the woman curled up on the moss bed beside him. The panther snarled again flexing his long sharp claws and bearing his teeth. His muscles twitched in anticipation, his toes dug into the moss ready to attack if the stranger made one step towards him or the lioness. The grounds keep wasn’t sure what he should do, the arboretum was due to open in half an hour and with these two here he knew he had to do something. The sound of the panther’s growling woke Leanna, she opened her eyes and sat up that’s when she seen the grounds keeper. She looked over at the irritated panther and gently placed her hand on his arm to calm him. The panther was so focused on the grounds keeper he didn’t feel the lioness’s hand on his arm, Leanna moved and positioned herself in front of him, she wrapped one arms around his waist and pressed her body against his chest. She laid her head on his shoulder her face nuzzling his neck and purred softly, stroking the side of his neck and cheek with her free hand. Panthro looked down and smiled and wrapped his arm around the lioness. When the panther was distracted the grounds keeper took that opportunity to bolt. The panther’s head snapped around and he went to go after the intruder but Leanna tightened her grip on him. “Let him go,” she whispered softly, “He means us no harm”. Panthro growled then sat down on the bed of moss, his mind was still a bit clouded from the effect of the lioness’s pheromones. The panther pulled the lioness onto his lap and held her tightly as his mind began to clear. The lioness looked up at him with tear filled eyes. “Lea,” He said quietly wiping a tear from her cheek with his thumb,” I didn’t hurt you did I,” he asked concerned. “No,” she said shaking her head, “I just missed you so much,” She said quietly hugging him tightly, “I didn’t think I’d ever see you again”. “Now Lea,” he said lifting her chin “you should have known I would have never given up until I found you,” he said stroking her cheek with the back of his strong fingers. The lioness looked at him and smiled, “knowing you, no you wouldn’t of’. “We better head back, Tygra is probably wondering where we are,” Panthro said. “And before the grounds keeper bring back the authorities,” Leanna snickered then looked around, “umm, I seem to have a problem”. “Oh,” Panthro said looking at her confused. “I umm, don’t know where my clothes are,” she said biting her bottom lip. “Oh,” Panthro chuckled trying to remember where he dropped them, “stay here a minute and I’ll go look”. Leanna moved of his lap and sat back down on the soft moss while the panther found his trunks and went to find the rest of their clothing. When he returned a few minutes later he had a big grin on his face, “well I got good news and bad new,” he said,” the good new is I found mostly all my stuff ..The bad news I only found a few things of yours that were salvageable”. “Oh boy… like what,” he asked. “Well I found your skirt and part of your top, but couldn’t find your shoes or umm under things,” he smirked handing her the bundle. “Oh well better then walking out completely naked, “she chuckled and looked at her shredded top and tied it around her breasts, “at least I’m covered…. Well somewhat anyway,” she said putting on the skirt that now was more like a loincloth. “It’s a new fashion statement, I should turn a few heads,” she winked. “Ooh no,” the panther growled looking at the lioness’s barely covered golden body, “I will get you something more appropriate to wear when the shops open up”. “The only thing I want is to sleep and be with you,” she said wrapping her arms around the panther waist and laying her head on his chest. “We’ll rest on the way home,” Panthro said planting a kiss on the top of her head. Tygra was speaking to Mandora when he turned and saw the panther and lioness walking from the complex hand in hand; he had to hide a smirk seeing the lioness’s state of dress as she walked barefoot towards him. “Don’t worry Thundercats.” Mandora said, “these two will be taken care of, “she said nodding to the two human males. “Hey I didn’t do anything,” Schwnek protested, “I was the one who brought her back, he is the one who should be going to jail,” he said pointing at the panther, “I want him charged with assault and I also want him to pay for the damage he done to my ship”. “You’re lucky I didn’t rip off your head and shove it so far up your ass you could see what you ate for breakfast a week ago,” Panthro snarled, “that can still be arranged”. “See, see, told you…. he just admitted he assaulted me,” Schwenk said turning to Mandora, “he just threatened me again”. Mandora just shook her head, “stupid bloody cat’s…. that’s justice for you, he can go around assaulting people and get away with it, “Schwenk said as he and Roland were being dragged off, “You haven’t heard the last of Gaston Schwenk…this is far from over cat’s……I will be back,” he shouted as he was put on the interplanetary control force ship.