One True King Part 3
Leanna, turned to look at her friend Myra, both of them cocking a brow of suspicion to the other one. They were not buying the hybrids farce, there was something that just smelt off. “You passed out?” Lion-o finally questioned, tugging her back to look in her pale face. His amber eyes examining her. It was true, she was more peeked in her pallor, her dark black eyeliner and red lips were gone. Her hair, was not its usual twists and turns of waves, it was more straight more undone then usual. Tara nodded rubbing a nervous hand through her hair. “Yes,… I’m still not feeling quite well.” She said, playing off his sympathy. “You sure that you were not attacked, not harmed in any way?” Tara flashed one of her obviously fake smiles. “Not that I’m aware of.” She winked towards him, trying to comfort all his fears before she finally pulled away. “Well…. Um if were no longer needed, I think I’ll go stand down the troupes. Before they worry were going to war, with all the alerts and panic that you have caused my lady.” Therja jested towards Tara, slightly nudging her as he stood. “Glad your home and safe.” “Thank you Therja, but truly I can not apologize to you all enough, I’m so sorry that I caused such a fuss.” “Don’t worry about it, were used to some emergency, Mummies attacking, or Tara’s getting into some sort of mischief, ehh I think this is an every day event.” Az smirked, walking towards Tara to give her a tight hug. “You’re almost more trouble then the mutant’s woman.” “Well of course, I can’t have you all, sitting about with nothing to do now can I?” Tara laughed, as their hug was broken. The room slowly becoming empty as one after the other, the nobles trailed out. Before going the Tigress known as Myra, pulled Tara into one of her squeezing embraces. “You may have fooled the lion, but Leanna and I aren’t buying it. You have some explaining to do woman!” She whispered in Tara’s ear, then pulled away. “I think a girl chat is in order.” Cringing inwardly Tara, nodded. The rest of the Thundercats leaving her and Lion-o standing in the meeting room alone. Leanna was the last one out, shutting the door behind her, she just gave Tara that, you are so... going to explain later look. Lion-o plopped heavily down in his seat, his long muscle bound legs kicking out as he leaned back. “Tara… tell me what’s going on?” “Going on Lion-o?” The hybrid scooted back, lifting herself to the top of the table, her short legs swinging back and forth innocently. The king scuffled up his noble brow, and took hold of her hand. “Its no secret that things between us have been, failing. I … can feel your distance between us. Why?” Tara shook her head, and rolled her eyes. “You are reading things into it my lord. I’m not pulling away from you.” Wishing to test that theory, the mighty lion stood grabbed her legs and slid her into his arms. Spreading her thighs so they met on both sides of his hips, as she still perched on the table. Leaning in, his lips gently brushed her neck, kissing her flesh ever so slightly. Tara cringed and gritted her teeth, locking them with disgust. She couldn’t, there was no way to get her feelings, her love, to switch like that from one man to the other, and the sensation of him against her flesh almost repulsed her. Her mind raced, as his large hands pulled her in tighter, his kissing became more apparently lustful. By law he was her husband, yet their bonds between them had truly been severed. She felt so dirty, so low at that very moment, is was if she were being sold to the higher bidder, forced into making love to this man, just because he owned her, not because she truly wished it. His hands now tumbled and tugged against her clothing, as he attempted to pull it from her curves. The more he tried, the more that she fought against him, she no longer thought only reacted, as her sharp fingernails dug so harshly into his chest that she drew blood. Wincing the lion drew back, the look on his face that of complete shock, as he rubbed down the fresh scratches across his chest. “Tara?” Bewildered and hurt, he let loose of her and stumbled backwards. “There is some one else……..” “No… No.. Lion-o I’m sorry.” Tara said fussing with her head as she lowered it crying. “I do not feel good my lord, tis all…. Please understand.” “Do you take me for a fool Tara?” He roared slightly, his lips screwed into a dreadfully dangerous scowl. “Never in all the time have I known you, have you ever refused me…. Not like this.” Tara winced rubbing her now churning stomach, her entire insides, her nerves were in knots. She was so sick to her stomach now, and everything around her spinning at a dreadfully fast rate. “I don’t feel well.” She repeated, the color again had drained from her face as she hopped from the table long enough to rush to the restroom, falling beneath the cool porcelain bowl. Taz, Shay, Blade, Link and Sepheia. All made there way towards the larger then life cats lair. Today was their tour of the Thundercats home, and the first day of vehicle training; taught by the legendary master Panthro. They had met him before, when they first arrived, but even then he had just exonerated this complete ideal of what a Thundercat should be, he had been so famous back on Thundera. But now, with the stories of the escapades of the Nobles on Third Earth, he was just that much more legendary. Shay rubbed some goose-bumps from off her arms. “Oh man pinch me, come on am I dreaming?” “Not at all my dear.” Blade said winking at her, as the group slowly ascended the white alabaster steps, which lead towards those silver decorated arched doors. A larger then life symbol of the Thundercats rested just above it. With its deep red and black tones it was a powerful vision indeed. “Welcome….” Chimed whiney small voice as the doors opened wide. Two small snarfs were standing just inside. “I’m Snarf Oswald, and I’m Snarf Egbert. Please come in, Panthro is expecting you.” “It’s a pleasure.” Link nodded towards the two fuzzy creatures, as he stepped through the threshold; followed up closely by the rest of the team. The last one through the door was Taz, he was so quiet now, just taking everything in. His eyes darted this way and that, watching everything. But in his head all he could see was her. “Lady Tara.” He imagined her guiding her way through the halls, running down those enormous twisting steps that seemed to sweep downwards towards the main hall. He could almost feel her aura in this home. A sensation that she was not far away, that behind any closed door she could emerge. She was so prevalent in his head, that he could almost smell her perfume. “We’re going to be your guide’s until we meet up with Panthro in the hanger.” The plump snarf said, quickly shutting and latching the security system behind the new comers. “If you have any questions at all, feel free to ask. “ He winked, as he strutted back to his cousin Snarf Egbert. “After all, we built this place, one stone at a time. No one knows more then we do.” The snarf said almost arrogantly, as he puffed out his furry red and yellow chest. “Well yea I guess, except for Tygra, and the other snarfs… and the Thundercats.” Egbert added in, with one blow he dwindled Oswalds bragging rights. “After all, you didn’t, build it all by yourself.” Oswald shot a look at his cousin, and cleared his throat. “Moving on!” *~*~*~* Tara was now back in her bedroom, her three children bouncing playfully about the room, as Pumyra examined the hybrid. Lion-o loomed over the bed, his hands firmly placed on both sides of his hips. “Well? How is she?” “She seems fine. Other then a very highly elevated blood pressure, and the nausea. Perhaps she has just caught some stomach virus she should be back to normal in a few days.” The puma said softly, putting some of her medical equipment back in her portable bag, and zipping it up slowly. Tara slightly smiled, perching up on her elbows. “And will you two quit speaking as if I can no longer hear you.” The lion’s eyes lowered. “I’m glad it’s nothing serious.” His smile drifted softly down towards Tara, wishing only to find some of the love that he used to find there behind her brilliant eyes. But there was just a few sparks that even resembled the adoration she used to have for him. “Right Lion-o, you know you’d prefer me dead, better luck next time my king.” Tara winked at him playfully. Lion-o just shook his head as one small cub grabbed his leg, tugging on his tight pants. “Daddy, I’s hungrrry.” The little boy slurred. Pumyra stood, lifting one of her comforting hands to the kings shoulder. “Rest, she needs rest… perhaps if the cubs were to go back to the nursery for a while, it would help.” Two of the other children, Laith, and Emeria were by the foot of the bed busily smacking each other and crying, over who did what to whom. Nodding, Lion-o began to herd the kids out the door, following Pumyra. Stopping only to kiss Tara on the forehead and pinch her cheek. “Feel better.” He said, moving out with the group, leaving Tara now alone with her thoughts. Grumbling to herself all the hybrid had energy to do now, was to toss the blankets over her head and hide from the world. Those sheets some how were always her safety net, protecting her from all that was wrong. The motherly side of her head, was clashing with the side that was so deeply in love that she no longer knew where she belonged as she battled wildly. The first thoughts were of how she had to spend more time with the kids, take them here, do this. Play a more active roll in Thundera being rebuilt. There was so many projects that she could easily sink her teeth into. And yet, the only thing that kept popping into her head was, “When can I sneak out to see Taz again. What mysterious place can we now meet at where know one knows and will not expect.” Sighing now at her current subject, she closed her eyes. “Some how…..I have to sort out this mess before some one gets hurt.” After a very complete tour of the Lair’s inner workings, did the group make it down to the Hanger, where Panthro was waiting. He was in his favorite office, under the hood of one of his newer vehicles. “Meowww Panthro, you have visitors.” Snarf Oswald said as he scooted across the slippery shined floor. Pulling himself from beneath his work, the Panther stood larger then life as he quickly wiped off his oily fingers with a rag, that rested just on the hood. His blue gray muscles bulging from beneath his large silver shoulder spikes. “Welcome friends.” His deep multi level voice called out. Shay couldn’t help but gasp, and lick her lips, “Talk about something yummy.” Taz laughed. “Down, girl.” “Why? You bagged your self a Thunder-woman, I can have a Thunder-man…. And Damn, I bet that could rock my world!” “Shuuush!” Taz said, nudging her as the panther got with in ear shot. Grabbing each of the newcomers hands, the panther shook them in turn. “This is the most important room in the lair….” “Yes and half the time I can’t even drag you out of here.” A very feminine voice wrung out. Turning to see who it was, the group recognized her from the day before. It was Leanna, the lioness. Panthro rolled his eyes just slightly. “Woman! You know you’re not to be in here when I’m working.” The lioness just laughed as she made her way towards Panthro, draping her arms around him, like and old lost lover, and planting a kiss on his cheek. “Oh I’m sure the kid’s wont mind.” She winked. Taz…. Just was just so stumped at this very moment, he couldn’t sort it all out. The other day when they were in the training field. The lioness was with the lord of Thundera… and he kept referring to his wife. But now, she was cuddled up to the warrior Panthro. “Old friends, yes of that he was certain? But to kiss him, to…..” He watched again the closeness of the two, and he was completely befuddled. Was she not Lion-o’s wife or, was there something funny going on behind the lions back?” He felt his temperature raise a degree or two…. I mean if she was married to the Lion-o why on earth was she so loving to this man. He, couldn’t stand for any wrong doings, and in his head what was going on now was completely wrong. Smacking her on the butt Panthro sent the lioness off so he could work, but Taz’s suspicious green eyes were watching intently as Panthro again started to explain just what he was doing. “This is called, The Foxfire. I’m working on it now. It’s to be a two man vehicle, a short range missile tank which will be used in battle. ” He stomped to the back of the vehicle showing off two very large chained tires that resembled a tank like armor. “These are specially designed to go in and out of small areas, over large obstacles. And even able to be driven at the bottom of a lake.” Leanna smiled and tugged back her long black mane as she listened intently as well, Taz continued his eyeballing assault, trying to catch a clue as to this new mystery. “Wow…” Link whistled. “But it’s so small, is it truly able to do damage, or is it just more of a run about rover, to get in and out, and not really inflict too much carnage?” Panthro grinned broadly as he ran his fingers lovingly across the tanks metal frame. “Well both Link. It is tuff enough to stand up to quite the assault, but it’s extremely maneuverable, it’s fast, and surprisingly light for all its armor.” Link bent over, looking at its undercarriage. “It’s extremely impressive. What type of weapons does it carry?” Lifting off one of the side panels, he showed off what it was loaded with. A few small range shooters, some stun devices, and a missile launcher. “Boys and there toys.” Leanna giggled. Taz sidestepped closer to Leanna. “My lady…. Excuse me. But after Panthro’s, training is it possible could you please spare a few moments to speak with me?” The lioness grinned. “Sure Taz, do you remember where the mess hall was?” The male cheetah nodded. “Ok, After he’s done I’ll meet you there, and we can talk.. Ok?” She winked. “Thank you..” Was all he said, as she drifted back and away from the crowd. “Panthro… I’ll see you later love.” She waved to her mate, he acknowledged by waving back, but never taking a moment to quit talking about his new vehicle. “Ok… moving on.” He went towards his old favorite the Thundertank. After and hour and a half more of lectures, the “ Trainees made there way out of the hanger, and up through the halls of the lair. “This place is so busy.” Shay remarked as she watched the Thunderguards move this way and that. “I’ll say so.” Sepheia said rubbing his stomach. “And I thought Panthro would never quit bragging about those damnable weapons, and equipment of his.” Blade chuckled. “It’s very apparent that he does like his work. So are we going to get something to eat, before we head back home?” He questioned passing the food galley. “Yea,… “ Taz nodded, then he noticed Leanna standing just down the hall waiting for him. “You guys go ahead. I’ll catch up.” “Where you going yellow britches?” Shay scolded, grabbing his belt loop. “Never you mind,” He tugged away. “I’ll be just a moment.” “Down penis!” Shay laughed, “I swear all that man can think about is his woman.” She chortled, entering the eating area. The lump in Taz’s throat grew, ten times as he made his way towards the Lioness. “Hi, I don’t mean to be rude, but are you cheating on the lord of the Thundercats?” He shook his head and rummaged through his short spotted hair. Oh that will go over brilliantly. Leanna, pulled herself from off the wall, and met him half way. “So, how did your first equipment training session go?” She winked. “Hope that panther didn’t talk your ear off, he finds one subject and he tends to stick to it; like aunts on an all day sucker.” Taz bit his lip nervously. “Oh no, he was fine. I mean I truly have a lot of adoration for the guy. He’s a genius, in every sense of the word. Able to make those incredible vehicles, out of strips of metal and some mechanical parts.” “That he is.” She nodded as the two started walking down the hall. “So… Taz tell me what’s on your mind, and I’ll see if I can help in any way.” After clearing his throat about ten times he finally was able to spat out. “Aren’t you married to Lion-o?” Leanna froze, turned and busted out in deep throated laughter. Grabbing his shoulder as she chuckled. “What?” Taz began to wave about his hands, absentmindedly. “I mean, its none of my business I guess Leanna, but, I don’t’ know seeing you with Lion-o, and then with Panthro… I mean are you….?” Wiping the tears from her now hysterical eyes she was able to mangle out a. “Lion-o is my cousin, Panthro is my mate.” “Oh…” Taz’s face lit beet red. “I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to be snoopy, but I was just so very confused.” Leanna nodded “Its fine dear, its just that you are one of the first to ever ask me that. I mean looking from your point of view, I guess you are rather new, and you have not been acquainted with all of us. It must be difficult to sort it all out.” Taz nodded, wiping off his face. “Yea, there are a lot of you. And so far I think I have only met a hand full.” “You know, I should truly try to rectify that. I’ll tell you what, when you and your friends pass Panthro’s class, I will throw you all a large party to acquaint you, the right way. That way you can all meet us at once, and try to piece together who is whom.” “That would be most helpful.” He smiled shyly. “No, it was something we should have done when you first arrived, however things being as they are, its been very hard to get everyone together.” She placed her hands at her hips. “So.. anything else you wish to ask me?” Taz just shook his head. Truly the next subject he had in his head was to ask the lioness about Tara if she was ok, if things were settled that she was not in any trouble. But he kept forcing himself to bite his tongue, to silence his barrage of questions. “Taz…. I want you to know that I’m your friend, and if there is anything you wish to discuss, you are more then welcome to come to me. Any time…. Ok?” Hesitating again and kicking at the flooring with his big metal toed boots. He didn’t know why but he trusted this lioness. “Actually…. I was worried about Lady Tara… Is she ok?” “Tara?” Leanna nodded slowly, “Yes… she’s ok. She returned this morning, but my question is… how did you know something was wrong?” “Umm…. We found her last night passed out, Link, Shay and I brought her home, to take care of her, until this morning.” Taz said only half telling the truth. “She was extremely worried about The Thundercats, that they would be upset she was gone, and truly we didn’t know if we should have brought her home last night or not. She was very Ill.” Leanna smiled softly. “So she was with you?” “Please…. Don’t tell, I don’t want her in trouble, but….I…. was just so upset about her condition.” “My lips are sealed,” She moved her hands across her lips, as if she was zipping them shut. “And yes, she is ok. Apparently she had another escapade of fainting when she got home, Lion-o found her passed out on the restroom floor. She is resting, and should be up again in a few days.” Leaning towards the young man Leanna whispered. “Do you wish me to relay any message to her?” “That I love her!” Taz almost blurted out, and then silenced his tongue. “Just that we care, and hope she gets better soon.” Leanna’s smile broadened. “I will tell her.” Tara had snuck out of bed, and was now perched in a chair on the other side of the room, her ear firmly planted against a long-range communication device. As when ever she was confused, one of the first people that she would talk too would be her little green friend, Salix the Dryad. The officer on dubiety had been able to patch Tara through to the Fort, hidden deep in the Unicorn forest of Third Earth. And the two women were busily yapping about everything that had been going on. “Tara… are you sure your not going through some, mid life crisis thingy…? I mean I remember you and Lion-o when you first got together, you two were inseparable. And now to have you just dump him like a warn out shoe, does not sound logical.” Tara sighed deeply and looked into her dressing mirror, watching her own reflection. “I’m not certain of anything Salix. All I know is that Taz has bewitched me on so many levels. I don’t know if I truly can sort out things with the lion. Or if … I truly want too at this point.” Tara could hear Salix scratching at her multi colored leafed hair, in confusion. “So.. did he piss you off? Why, don’t you like Lion-o?” “No... Actually he’s never changed, its just my perception of him. He’s still a very good man, and I’ll never stop caring for him. But…. Taz….” Tara swooned thinking about him. “Tara, you’re just stuck on bulges again I think!” Salix chortled. They hybrid couldn’t help but bust out with laughter. “Well you do know me, and that topic, we do go well. And Taz has a fine bulge!” Salix slapped her knee. “I knew it! There couldn’t be any possible way for Lion-o to hide anything in those tight pants. It was ether a potato, or just hot air.” Tara was laughing so hard at this point that she didn’t even hear the Lioness, knock on her door, or her enter her bed chamber. “Ahem…” Leanna said behind the hybrid. Wiping the tears from her eyes, she turned and nodded to Leanna. “Looks like I’m needed Salix dear, please try to plan to come to New Thundera to see me.” “Will do.” “Oh, and please tell. Zhyan, Spark, and Syms. That I miss them too, so very much.” Tara sighed thinking about all her friends, which she had not spoken to for such a long time. It was so dreadfully sad. “Ok Tara, I shall talk to you soon; Wuves you!” “Love you too. Tara out.” With that the communications went dead, hanging up the receiver, she turned slowly. “Leanna, hello dear, how are you?”
Leanna, turned to look at her friend Myra, both of them cocking a brow of suspicion to the other one. They were not buying the hybrids farce, there was something that just smelt off. “You passed out?” Lion-o finally questioned, tugging her back to look in her pale face. His amber eyes examining her. It was true, she was more peeked in her pallor, her dark black eyeliner and red lips were gone. Her hair, was not its usual twists and turns of waves, it was more straight more undone then usual. Tara nodded rubbing a nervous hand through her hair. “Yes,… I’m still not feeling quite well.” She said, playing off his sympathy. “You sure that you were not attacked, not harmed in any way?” Tara flashed one of her obviously fake smiles. “Not that I’m aware of.” She winked towards him, trying to comfort all his fears before she finally pulled away. “Well…. Um if were no longer needed, I think I’ll go stand down the troupes. Before they worry were going to war, with all the alerts and panic that you have caused my lady.” Therja jested towards Tara, slightly nudging her as he stood. “Glad your home and safe.” “Thank you Therja, but truly I can not apologize to you all enough, I’m so sorry that I caused such a fuss.” “Don’t worry about it, were used to some emergency, Mummies attacking, or Tara’s getting into some sort of mischief, ehh I think this is an every day event.” Az smirked, walking towards Tara to give her a tight hug. “You’re almost more trouble then the mutant’s woman.” “Well of course, I can’t have you all, sitting about with nothing to do now can I?” Tara laughed, as their hug was broken. The room slowly becoming empty as one after the other, the nobles trailed out. Before going the Tigress known as Myra, pulled Tara into one of her squeezing embraces. “You may have fooled the lion, but Leanna and I aren’t buying it. You have some explaining to do woman!” She whispered in Tara’s ear, then pulled away. “I think a girl chat is in order.” Cringing inwardly Tara, nodded. The rest of the Thundercats leaving her and Lion-o standing in the meeting room alone. Leanna was the last one out, shutting the door behind her, she just gave Tara that, you are so... going to explain later look. Lion-o plopped heavily down in his seat, his long muscle bound legs kicking out as he leaned back. “Tara… tell me what’s going on?” “Going on Lion-o?” The hybrid scooted back, lifting herself to the top of the table, her short legs swinging back and forth innocently. The king scuffled up his noble brow, and took hold of her hand. “Its no secret that things between us have been, failing. I … can feel your distance between us. Why?” Tara shook her head, and rolled her eyes. “You are reading things into it my lord. I’m not pulling away from you.” Wishing to test that theory, the mighty lion stood grabbed her legs and slid her into his arms. Spreading her thighs so they met on both sides of his hips, as she still perched on the table. Leaning in, his lips gently brushed her neck, kissing her flesh ever so slightly. Tara cringed and gritted her teeth, locking them with disgust. She couldn’t, there was no way to get her feelings, her love, to switch like that from one man to the other, and the sensation of him against her flesh almost repulsed her. Her mind raced, as his large hands pulled her in tighter, his kissing became more apparently lustful. By law he was her husband, yet their bonds between them had truly been severed. She felt so dirty, so low at that very moment, is was if she were being sold to the higher bidder, forced into making love to this man, just because he owned her, not because she truly wished it. His hands now tumbled and tugged against her clothing, as he attempted to pull it from her curves. The more he tried, the more that she fought against him, she no longer thought only reacted, as her sharp fingernails dug so harshly into his chest that she drew blood. Wincing the lion drew back, the look on his face that of complete shock, as he rubbed down the fresh scratches across his chest. “Tara?” Bewildered and hurt, he let loose of her and stumbled backwards. “There is some one else……..” “No… No.. Lion-o I’m sorry.” Tara said fussing with her head as she lowered it crying. “I do not feel good my lord, tis all…. Please understand.” “Do you take me for a fool Tara?” He roared slightly, his lips screwed into a dreadfully dangerous scowl. “Never in all the time have I known you, have you ever refused me…. Not like this.” Tara winced rubbing her now churning stomach, her entire insides, her nerves were in knots. She was so sick to her stomach now, and everything around her spinning at a dreadfully fast rate. “I don’t feel well.” She repeated, the color again had drained from her face as she hopped from the table long enough to rush to the restroom, falling beneath the cool porcelain bowl. Taz, Shay, Blade, Link and Sepheia. All made there way towards the larger then life cats lair. Today was their tour of the Thundercats home, and the first day of vehicle training; taught by the legendary master Panthro. They had met him before, when they first arrived, but even then he had just exonerated this complete ideal of what a Thundercat should be, he had been so famous back on Thundera. But now, with the stories of the escapades of the Nobles on Third Earth, he was just that much more legendary. Shay rubbed some goose-bumps from off her arms. “Oh man pinch me, come on am I dreaming?” “Not at all my dear.” Blade said winking at her, as the group slowly ascended the white alabaster steps, which lead towards those silver decorated arched doors. A larger then life symbol of the Thundercats rested just above it. With its deep red and black tones it was a powerful vision indeed. “Welcome….” Chimed whiney small voice as the doors opened wide. Two small snarfs were standing just inside. “I’m Snarf Oswald, and I’m Snarf Egbert. Please come in, Panthro is expecting you.” “It’s a pleasure.” Link nodded towards the two fuzzy creatures, as he stepped through the threshold; followed up closely by the rest of the team. The last one through the door was Taz, he was so quiet now, just taking everything in. His eyes darted this way and that, watching everything. But in his head all he could see was her. “Lady Tara.” He imagined her guiding her way through the halls, running down those enormous twisting steps that seemed to sweep downwards towards the main hall. He could almost feel her aura in this home. A sensation that she was not far away, that behind any closed door she could emerge. She was so prevalent in his head, that he could almost smell her perfume. “We’re going to be your guide’s until we meet up with Panthro in the hanger.” The plump snarf said, quickly shutting and latching the security system behind the new comers. “If you have any questions at all, feel free to ask. “ He winked, as he strutted back to his cousin Snarf Egbert. “After all, we built this place, one stone at a time. No one knows more then we do.” The snarf said almost arrogantly, as he puffed out his furry red and yellow chest. “Well yea I guess, except for Tygra, and the other snarfs… and the Thundercats.” Egbert added in, with one blow he dwindled Oswalds bragging rights. “After all, you didn’t, build it all by yourself.” Oswald shot a look at his cousin, and cleared his throat. “Moving on!” *~*~*~* Tara was now back in her bedroom, her three children bouncing playfully about the room, as Pumyra examined the hybrid. Lion-o loomed over the bed, his hands firmly placed on both sides of his hips. “Well? How is she?” “She seems fine. Other then a very highly elevated blood pressure, and the nausea. Perhaps she has just caught some stomach virus she should be back to normal in a few days.” The puma said softly, putting some of her medical equipment back in her portable bag, and zipping it up slowly. Tara slightly smiled, perching up on her elbows. “And will you two quit speaking as if I can no longer hear you.” The lion’s eyes lowered. “I’m glad it’s nothing serious.” His smile drifted softly down towards Tara, wishing only to find some of the love that he used to find there behind her brilliant eyes. But there was just a few sparks that even resembled the adoration she used to have for him. “Right Lion-o, you know you’d prefer me dead, better luck next time my king.” Tara winked at him playfully. Lion-o just shook his head as one small cub grabbed his leg, tugging on his tight pants. “Daddy, I’s hungrrry.” The little boy slurred. Pumyra stood, lifting one of her comforting hands to the kings shoulder. “Rest, she needs rest… perhaps if the cubs were to go back to the nursery for a while, it would help.” Two of the other children, Laith, and Emeria were by the foot of the bed busily smacking each other and crying, over who did what to whom. Nodding, Lion-o began to herd the kids out the door, following Pumyra. Stopping only to kiss Tara on the forehead and pinch her cheek. “Feel better.” He said, moving out with the group, leaving Tara now alone with her thoughts. Grumbling to herself all the hybrid had energy to do now, was to toss the blankets over her head and hide from the world. Those sheets some how were always her safety net, protecting her from all that was wrong. The motherly side of her head, was clashing with the side that was so deeply in love that she no longer knew where she belonged as she battled wildly. The first thoughts were of how she had to spend more time with the kids, take them here, do this. Play a more active roll in Thundera being rebuilt. There was so many projects that she could easily sink her teeth into. And yet, the only thing that kept popping into her head was, “When can I sneak out to see Taz again. What mysterious place can we now meet at where know one knows and will not expect.” Sighing now at her current subject, she closed her eyes. “Some how…..I have to sort out this mess before some one gets hurt.” After a very complete tour of the Lair’s inner workings, did the group make it down to the Hanger, where Panthro was waiting. He was in his favorite office, under the hood of one of his newer vehicles. “Meowww Panthro, you have visitors.” Snarf Oswald said as he scooted across the slippery shined floor. Pulling himself from beneath his work, the Panther stood larger then life as he quickly wiped off his oily fingers with a rag, that rested just on the hood. His blue gray muscles bulging from beneath his large silver shoulder spikes. “Welcome friends.” His deep multi level voice called out. Shay couldn’t help but gasp, and lick her lips, “Talk about something yummy.” Taz laughed. “Down, girl.” “Why? You bagged your self a Thunder-woman, I can have a Thunder-man…. And Damn, I bet that could rock my world!” “Shuuush!” Taz said, nudging her as the panther got with in ear shot. Grabbing each of the newcomers hands, the panther shook them in turn. “This is the most important room in the lair….” “Yes and half the time I can’t even drag you out of here.” A very feminine voice wrung out. Turning to see who it was, the group recognized her from the day before. It was Leanna, the lioness. Panthro rolled his eyes just slightly. “Woman! You know you’re not to be in here when I’m working.” The lioness just laughed as she made her way towards Panthro, draping her arms around him, like and old lost lover, and planting a kiss on his cheek. “Oh I’m sure the kid’s wont mind.” She winked. Taz…. Just was just so stumped at this very moment, he couldn’t sort it all out. The other day when they were in the training field. The lioness was with the lord of Thundera… and he kept referring to his wife. But now, she was cuddled up to the warrior Panthro. “Old friends, yes of that he was certain? But to kiss him, to…..” He watched again the closeness of the two, and he was completely befuddled. Was she not Lion-o’s wife or, was there something funny going on behind the lions back?” He felt his temperature raise a degree or two…. I mean if she was married to the Lion-o why on earth was she so loving to this man. He, couldn’t stand for any wrong doings, and in his head what was going on now was completely wrong. Smacking her on the butt Panthro sent the lioness off so he could work, but Taz’s suspicious green eyes were watching intently as Panthro again started to explain just what he was doing. “This is called, The Foxfire. I’m working on it now. It’s to be a two man vehicle, a short range missile tank which will be used in battle. ” He stomped to the back of the vehicle showing off two very large chained tires that resembled a tank like armor. “These are specially designed to go in and out of small areas, over large obstacles. And even able to be driven at the bottom of a lake.” Leanna smiled and tugged back her long black mane as she listened intently as well, Taz continued his eyeballing assault, trying to catch a clue as to this new mystery. “Wow…” Link whistled. “But it’s so small, is it truly able to do damage, or is it just more of a run about rover, to get in and out, and not really inflict too much carnage?” Panthro grinned broadly as he ran his fingers lovingly across the tanks metal frame. “Well both Link. It is tuff enough to stand up to quite the assault, but it’s extremely maneuverable, it’s fast, and surprisingly light for all its armor.” Link bent over, looking at its undercarriage. “It’s extremely impressive. What type of weapons does it carry?” Lifting off one of the side panels, he showed off what it was loaded with. A few small range shooters, some stun devices, and a missile launcher. “Boys and there toys.” Leanna giggled. Taz sidestepped closer to Leanna. “My lady…. Excuse me. But after Panthro’s, training is it possible could you please spare a few moments to speak with me?” The lioness grinned. “Sure Taz, do you remember where the mess hall was?” The male cheetah nodded. “Ok, After he’s done I’ll meet you there, and we can talk.. Ok?” She winked. “Thank you..” Was all he said, as she drifted back and away from the crowd. “Panthro… I’ll see you later love.” She waved to her mate, he acknowledged by waving back, but never taking a moment to quit talking about his new vehicle. “Ok… moving on.” He went towards his old favorite the Thundertank. After and hour and a half more of lectures, the “ Trainees made there way out of the hanger, and up through the halls of the lair. “This place is so busy.” Shay remarked as she watched the Thunderguards move this way and that. “I’ll say so.” Sepheia said rubbing his stomach. “And I thought Panthro would never quit bragging about those damnable weapons, and equipment of his.” Blade chuckled. “It’s very apparent that he does like his work. So are we going to get something to eat, before we head back home?” He questioned passing the food galley. “Yea,… “ Taz nodded, then he noticed Leanna standing just down the hall waiting for him. “You guys go ahead. I’ll catch up.” “Where you going yellow britches?” Shay scolded, grabbing his belt loop. “Never you mind,” He tugged away. “I’ll be just a moment.” “Down penis!” Shay laughed, “I swear all that man can think about is his woman.” She chortled, entering the eating area. The lump in Taz’s throat grew, ten times as he made his way towards the Lioness. “Hi, I don’t mean to be rude, but are you cheating on the lord of the Thundercats?” He shook his head and rummaged through his short spotted hair. Oh that will go over brilliantly. Leanna, pulled herself from off the wall, and met him half way. “So, how did your first equipment training session go?” She winked. “Hope that panther didn’t talk your ear off, he finds one subject and he tends to stick to it; like aunts on an all day sucker.” Taz bit his lip nervously. “Oh no, he was fine. I mean I truly have a lot of adoration for the guy. He’s a genius, in every sense of the word. Able to make those incredible vehicles, out of strips of metal and some mechanical parts.” “That he is.” She nodded as the two started walking down the hall. “So… Taz tell me what’s on your mind, and I’ll see if I can help in any way.” After clearing his throat about ten times he finally was able to spat out. “Aren’t you married to Lion-o?” Leanna froze, turned and busted out in deep throated laughter. Grabbing his shoulder as she chuckled. “What?” Taz began to wave about his hands, absentmindedly. “I mean, its none of my business I guess Leanna, but, I don’t’ know seeing you with Lion-o, and then with Panthro… I mean are you….?” Wiping the tears from her now hysterical eyes she was able to mangle out a. “Lion-o is my cousin, Panthro is my mate.” “Oh…” Taz’s face lit beet red. “I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to be snoopy, but I was just so very confused.” Leanna nodded “Its fine dear, its just that you are one of the first to ever ask me that. I mean looking from your point of view, I guess you are rather new, and you have not been acquainted with all of us. It must be difficult to sort it all out.” Taz nodded, wiping off his face. “Yea, there are a lot of you. And so far I think I have only met a hand full.” “You know, I should truly try to rectify that. I’ll tell you what, when you and your friends pass Panthro’s class, I will throw you all a large party to acquaint you, the right way. That way you can all meet us at once, and try to piece together who is whom.” “That would be most helpful.” He smiled shyly. “No, it was something we should have done when you first arrived, however things being as they are, its been very hard to get everyone together.” She placed her hands at her hips. “So.. anything else you wish to ask me?” Taz just shook his head. Truly the next subject he had in his head was to ask the lioness about Tara if she was ok, if things were settled that she was not in any trouble. But he kept forcing himself to bite his tongue, to silence his barrage of questions. “Taz…. I want you to know that I’m your friend, and if there is anything you wish to discuss, you are more then welcome to come to me. Any time…. Ok?” Hesitating again and kicking at the flooring with his big metal toed boots. He didn’t know why but he trusted this lioness. “Actually…. I was worried about Lady Tara… Is she ok?” “Tara?” Leanna nodded slowly, “Yes… she’s ok. She returned this morning, but my question is… how did you know something was wrong?” “Umm…. We found her last night passed out, Link, Shay and I brought her home, to take care of her, until this morning.” Taz said only half telling the truth. “She was extremely worried about The Thundercats, that they would be upset she was gone, and truly we didn’t know if we should have brought her home last night or not. She was very Ill.” Leanna smiled softly. “So she was with you?” “Please…. Don’t tell, I don’t want her in trouble, but….I…. was just so upset about her condition.” “My lips are sealed,” She moved her hands across her lips, as if she was zipping them shut. “And yes, she is ok. Apparently she had another escapade of fainting when she got home, Lion-o found her passed out on the restroom floor. She is resting, and should be up again in a few days.” Leaning towards the young man Leanna whispered. “Do you wish me to relay any message to her?” “That I love her!” Taz almost blurted out, and then silenced his tongue. “Just that we care, and hope she gets better soon.” Leanna’s smile broadened. “I will tell her.” Tara had snuck out of bed, and was now perched in a chair on the other side of the room, her ear firmly planted against a long-range communication device. As when ever she was confused, one of the first people that she would talk too would be her little green friend, Salix the Dryad. The officer on dubiety had been able to patch Tara through to the Fort, hidden deep in the Unicorn forest of Third Earth. And the two women were busily yapping about everything that had been going on. “Tara… are you sure your not going through some, mid life crisis thingy…? I mean I remember you and Lion-o when you first got together, you two were inseparable. And now to have you just dump him like a warn out shoe, does not sound logical.” Tara sighed deeply and looked into her dressing mirror, watching her own reflection. “I’m not certain of anything Salix. All I know is that Taz has bewitched me on so many levels. I don’t know if I truly can sort out things with the lion. Or if … I truly want too at this point.” Tara could hear Salix scratching at her multi colored leafed hair, in confusion. “So.. did he piss you off? Why, don’t you like Lion-o?” “No... Actually he’s never changed, its just my perception of him. He’s still a very good man, and I’ll never stop caring for him. But…. Taz….” Tara swooned thinking about him. “Tara, you’re just stuck on bulges again I think!” Salix chortled. They hybrid couldn’t help but bust out with laughter. “Well you do know me, and that topic, we do go well. And Taz has a fine bulge!” Salix slapped her knee. “I knew it! There couldn’t be any possible way for Lion-o to hide anything in those tight pants. It was ether a potato, or just hot air.” Tara was laughing so hard at this point that she didn’t even hear the Lioness, knock on her door, or her enter her bed chamber. “Ahem…” Leanna said behind the hybrid. Wiping the tears from her eyes, she turned and nodded to Leanna. “Looks like I’m needed Salix dear, please try to plan to come to New Thundera to see me.” “Will do.” “Oh, and please tell. Zhyan, Spark, and Syms. That I miss them too, so very much.” Tara sighed thinking about all her friends, which she had not spoken to for such a long time. It was so dreadfully sad. “Ok Tara, I shall talk to you soon; Wuves you!” “Love you too. Tara out.” With that the communications went dead, hanging up the receiver, she turned slowly. “Leanna, hello dear, how are you?”