Planes
Planes. Trains. And Lion-o’s. By Tara. The new equipment that Panthro had made was all functioning perfectly, and as a special treat for the People of Thundera. They had decided on allowing the Thunderian’s, a chance to get a closer look at the armory by having a small air show. Displaying, just exactly they were capable of. It was scheduled for first light, and Lion-o for one was excited as a kid in a candy store. He’d always been fascinated by ships and vehicles. And now to have so many at his finger tips was… a dream for him. Lord Lion-o could hear the roar of the jets just out side the Lair. All getting ready for the special exhibit at dawn. They were being refilled and the outsides polished, to a shiny glistening finish. Lion-o bolted from the bed and ran to the glass pane; he quickly unlocked the latch on the ornately decorated window, and opened the frame. “Just look at them Tara… Their breathtaking.” He gasped in awe. The king’s hybrid wife slowly sat up in bed and rolled her eyes. “Good gracious Lion-o its only five am… come back to bed.” She said patting the dark silk sheets. His large arm rested on the windowsill, he smiled. “Tara come look, Panthro’s just unloading the Thunderbirds from the Military bunkers. “Ohh whoopee... Tell me when he unloads something interesting.” Tara grumbled and tossed herself back onto the pillow.” I’m still tired.” The lion shook his head, and walked to the edge of the bed. He grabbed up the blankets in his hands and tugged. Tara and the sheets came sliding off the end of the soft bed; with a thump. “Wake up!” He smirked evilly. Tara growled and slapped Lion-o on the leg. “Remind me to drag your behind out of bed at first light, to go shopping.” The strong male lowered his hand and grabbed his wife tightly lifting her towards him. “I promise… if you enjoy yourself today, and don’t complain once. I’m yours for one whole day, for anything that you desire. The woman’s eyes lit. “Truly?” He nodded. After tugging the all ready loose sheet around her body the hybrid moved towards the window. “My goodness, I have never seen so many ships. What is this Lion-o a build up for a war?” Tara questioned, seeing the ground littered with so many vehicles, that were armed to the hilt did not bode well. The lion’s arms draped around her shoulders as they both peered out side. “Of course not, I merely want to be ready incase they are needed. We are in charge now My Queen and I must be ready for anything.” “Still…. I don’t like it… It makes my skin crawl.” Tara shuddered. “To many memories about old Wars, Plagues, death, and unnecessary destruction I assume.” Lion-o patted Tara’s head softly and played with her long ebony strands. “I … Know I have never asked you this. When you were trapped inside the Time Warp Prison, were you still able to know what was going on around you?” Tara nodded and lowered her face to her hands, as she leaned out the open glass, watching the Defense Team go about there work, polishing and scrubbing the armor plated ships. Her muscles tensed, as she reminisced the past. “It was the late sixteen hundreds when Osirus punished me for my misdeeds Lion-o” Tara’s voice quaked, as she continued her tale. “I... had stood on the battle fields when Rome and its Legionaries swept across most of the world conquering and invading one land at a time. I knew the bloody signs of war in the Highlands of Scotland. When Edward the Long Shanks, lay siege to the innocent people. To him they were, worthless. Because of there race, even there music was forbidden, outlawed.” Tara’s face turned from the soft streams of light, and from the air craft that blocked her view. “I traveled to the New World on one of the ships bound for the America’s. I wanted to see what all the excitement was about.” Tara smiled, “However that was the worst mistake I had ever made. I had traveled alone to a place known as Massachusetts. It was a small colony back then; the Puritans who lived there were extremely closed minded. And well a woman such as myself, a bit strong willed, alone, odd even, was quickly picked out to be… well... As they said back in the Day a ….” The woman closed her eyes remembering. “A Witch.” Lion-o’ intently watched his wife, he had read some history about the subjects that she had just mentioned, but some how with her speaking, reliving it. It was now too real, to horrifying to imagine what she had gone through in her life. Lion-o moved back towards the bed and plopped heavily down on the edge. “Go on …” He urged as he watched every move that she now made. The hybrids chest began to heave beneath the blue sheets, trying to gain the strength to tell him. He’d always been curious about her. That young kind soul with his curious eyes, and today was as good as any to speak of that, which she so often eluded to tell him. It was the summer of 1692, Tashi, the free spirit that she had always been, had made her way across the Atlantic Ocean in a large ship. The sea spray of the ocean, hitting her pale face with is cool salt water, the sound of the crew men as they worked. As she spoke the Hybrid could almost feel it. She could see the children playing and running about the ship; that only lasted a few days of the three month voyage. Many of the ships passengers and crew had fallen ill with influenza; there cold lifeless bodies had been tossed over board when they passed away in the night. Tashi sighed just like now and rested her arms across the wooden deck looking out into the vast waves of the rolling sea. Not many survived the long journey, and the ones who did were grateful. However Tashi being immortal knew that the sickness would not affect her. Except for the endless nightmares and dreams that she had, and will always be haunted by, because of her exceptionally long life. “My Lady…” Came an old English dark baritone voice, which sent shivers down her body, as he handed her a blanket. “We will be docking in but an hour… Ye might want to; be gathering up your things, and tiding up, Ye chambers. A new world awaits.” he said with a bow. Tashi smiled as the Captain moved back towards his Stern. “Lower the rigging a bit m’e mates... She’ll be coming in soon.” He ordered, with a scoundrels wink. Tashi shook her head, and moved carefully below deck to gather the rest of her belongings. It wasn’t that the Capitan was un-handsome or his advances unwanted, it’s just that Tashi had her belly full of men. Tired of their constant wants and whimsical needs. A foolish breed they were, she shrugged, their minds full of chaos. Once the creaking and swaying of the ship had stopped, the plank was lowered and Tashi and a group of Pilgrims, slowly made there way off the ship. Long distance family and, forgotten friends piled toward the group, hugs and happy tears proceeded. The only one still standing alone taking in the new world was the Immortal Woman. Her eyes full of hope of desire. “Something completely new.” She beamed happily as she plopped down her luggage in the dust, and straightened her bonnet that adorned her raven colored hair. Tashi staggered a bit as she wearily shook her legs trying to get the feel of the sea from her limbs. Months since she had touched land, the ground. She reached down pulling her white lace gloves from off her hands, bending over sweeping her hand in the Rich New England dirt. Tashi grabbed up a hand full of the ground, then just let the soft Earth fall from beneath her fingertips. She was so thrilled that she hadn’t even noticed the scowls from the onlookers, as they brutally chastised her for her apparent boldness. “Unheard of…” One cross patch of a woman, whispered to her brother. “The nerve... to be so bold to travel alone. With out her husband.” Hissed another man, with a wrinkled brow from all his unnecessary worrying. “She’s a scandalous thing who spent her days on deck speaking alone. With the Captain of the vessel.” One of the Travelers said at they nodded towards Tashi. The ancient Egyptian slowly stood and made her way through the crowds and into the very heart of this new village. For about a year, things were fine Tashi kept to herself, read, only ventured into town when she needed some thing. She now was the owner of a small home that she had purchased, from a widow woman whose husband had died from the plague, and she was leaving the New Land and heading back to England. Tashi was happy to take over the wooden shack, with its large garden. In Fact she had just about everything she needed, and it was just far enough away. That she and her oddities went unnoticed. That is until the new preacher from the town got an unnerving bee in his bonnet and wanted to personally greet every one from the area… and invite them all to church. The early morning nock at the door startled Tashi, as she rose from her slumber and swathed herself in her robe to cover her night dress. Tashi unlatched the heavy wooden door and peeked through the small crack. “Yes?” She said her voice not truly awake. A Large black plumed hat moved from off of the Reverend’s head and he bowed slightly. “Forgive my intrusion, but is though husband home?” “I am not wed.” Tashi said honestly. The man lifted his head and furrowed his arrogant brow. “Your father then?” Tashi opened the door wider and stood straight and tall. “If you want business, then ye shall do it with me.” The high spirited woman snorted back. There was something about this man, which angered her even though they had just met. He glared through deep set brown eyes, “My lady… I have only come to invite you to Church. I am new here and wanted to greet my congregation. “ Tashi nodded. “Thank ye…but I will not been needing you, or your gods.” She quickly shut the door in the mans face, and rolled her eyes. Tashi tugged her long golden chained necklace from her neck, and rubbed the Egyptian symbol, “The arrogance of these humans.” With that she thought no more about him, as she watched his horse bound off back in the thicket. Tashi knew that these puritans were an odd bunch, who were so tormented by there own ideals and thoughts that, normal human rights were completely tossed out the window by there hard headed beliefs. But she had not been there long enough to completely realize the extend of there hate, and loathing for anything different. The preacher was only the first of a barrage of new visitors that kept badgering the woman, her once solitary world turned up side down. In the beginning it was just whispering, when she went to town riding her small carriage. Then it was finger points and children tossing rotten vegetables at her feet. “One man even went so far as to call her a brazen wench, who didn’t have enough sense to come in out of the rain.” Tashi and her well known temper was just about at its end. “Osirus king of the gods, and Tashi had never gotten along very well, since she was the love child between her Mother Isis… and a human. By rights Osirus, who was husband to Isis... hated Tashi from the start. Tashi and her defying nature had also goofed one too many times. The biggest rule that and immortal had to abide by was to not interfere with the human world. They may walk among it, be apart of it. And well Tashi had tried Osirus’s patients a bit too may times on that one. So she had decided to just walk away from everyone, to come to the new world for a new beginning. Disheartened Tashi collapsed beneath a tree, to weep silently. She had not done anything to hurt these humans, had never even said one bad or misgiving word. And here they were tossing tomatoes at her feet. The woman tugged her tight shoes from her feet and hurled them into the thick grass. “I have lived for Thousands of years. I … Tashi… will not be driven away from my home…. My new land. By them.” She growled. The lovely Egyptian leaned back against the tree, gazing up into the bright afternoon sky. Her fingers worked at her modest bodiesss freeing her shapely body from beneath the yards and yards of dark material. She swept away her bonnet and unpinned her long hair letting it fall in dark spirals down her back. It was such a beautiful day, and she would not have it be spoiled by thoughts. Tashi stood and tugged the rest of her garments from her soft pale flesh, and bounded towards the river. Jumping in, diving and splashing about the crystal clear water. She was on her land, her home. The Acers of forest that she had legally purchased. When an unfriendly hat, and attached to it was the blasted Preacher, again sticking his nose where it didn’t belong. At first his beady eyes lit with pleasure, and then his reasoning kicked in. “This was what he had been waiting for… the excuse to drive this odd woman from the village. He was just about to back away, when he noticed Tashi once again emerge from the water, her body bare and shimmering with the cascades of water. He scowled “What was that? A symbol... a necklace. Gold cuffs?” All strange to him. Inlayed with foreign strange markings, and off set jewels. “Devil … symbols!” That was enough; he inched his way back through the brush and headed straight for town. The sun hadn’t even set when he had returned with five brutish men, all banging on Tashi’s door. “Come Out Witch!!” They screamed, as the door to Tashi’s log cabin came crashing down around her. The Egyptian squealed and fell out of her rocking chair, clambering to the ground. As they rushed into her home, knocking over everything in there path. Toppling over the table, and her French china. The one six foot man gripped Tashi by the neck, slapping her across the face. “Devil worshiper… demon... harlot.” The woman merely answered back with her saliva spat in his face. “Get out of my home.” She seethed through gritted teeth. “And get your hands from me!” He tossed her roughly back to the floor, banging her head on the wooden surface. She winced and sent one of her strong fists into his face. Her knee followed, her dagger, unsheathed from inside her skirt and slid easily in to the mans flesh. Sunned the man, blinked and then fell dead on her floor. Tashi pulled her self from the ground and steadied her legs. “Don’t make me destroy you all!” The preacher became white with panic, he’d never seen a women fight back, not like that. Never had been witnessed to such a brutal display of power by a weak female. The preacher turned tales and ran, from the door and jumped his steed. The embers of Tashi’s haunting green eyes began to glow, her anger was more potent and her magic stronger then these men dared to know. If this was to be a battle, then she would reign victorious. The three men began to surround her, closing around her like a vice. *~*~* Tashi just emerged from the garden, where she had buried all four bodies. She was filthy, disgusted, and mad as hell. She tossed the shovel next to her door frame and entered her home, to clean up the destruction that they had caused. They had ruined her perfectly peacefully evening. She picked up one of her overturned chairs and plopped down heavily in the seat. Her dress was torn, and tattered, and her face dirty and bruised. She hung her head and growled. “How dare they.” She said with out a bit of remorse at the massacre that had occurred. She even seemed impervious to the fact that her floor was still stained with their blood. Tashi knew that the pathetic excuse for a man, who bolted at the first sight of a fight, would be back, most likely with a horde of warriors behind him. The lovely woman snarled, and headed towards her trunk that rested in her bed room. She pulled out more antique weapons, and pulled off her cumbersome dress. Changing her clothing to a pair of tight fitting leather breaches, and a linen shirt. Things that she had kept to remember, yet another adventure she had been on, with a bunch of scurvy pirates. Her famed Egyptian dagger at her side. Her Cutlass at her hip, hand knives now tucked into her boots... she bounded from her house. Untied all the horses from the dead men’s collection, and sent them off with a slap. Her long legs swept over the back of one of the steeds. “Hiya!” She whistled as the reins whipped the horses’ neck. She was off bolting through the night, There was no were to go no where to run, this town was too small and the land of New England to tightly woven. For a women like her to be able to make her way to freedom. The war had started, unless she could get to the Preacher before he assembled his, mob out looking for her head. The Preacher bolted through the Mayor’s door, his stately manor in the center of town. He was trembling as if he had been face to face with a ghost. His limbs shaking, as he fell to the floor beneath the plump mans feet. “The… The... woman… “He stammered. “She killed them…!” His face dropped to the floor weeping. “What has happened?” Mayor Edwards, questioned thinking that indeed this man had been relived of his mind “What sayith you? “The woman Tashi…. Who lives on the outskirts of town… She is possessed of the Devil, with the strength and the movements of the most powerful warrior … she slaughtered my men.” “Surely you jest? She is a tiny thing... alone, helpless.” Mayor Edwards said as he inched his body down in the old worm rotted bench, of his living room. And fluffed a cream colored pillow beneath his back. The Preacher lifted his head. “I know this sounds impossible…. But t’is true.” Reluctantly the mayor set things into motion… and he himself would go to find out what truly had happened. A group of about fifty men quickly assembled in the church, waiting there orders, and passing out weapons for the Witch hunt. The women huddled in the corner crying and pleading for there men not to go. They had just been given their orders, when the white wooden door came flying open with a tremendous bang. “Awe. All this fuss over little old me.” Tashi shook seductively, slowly making her way towards the center of the room. In her tight form fitting breeches, her scandalous movements, made every male ether whimper. with devious thoughts. Or grow furious over the brazen seductive qualities of this wench. Tashi’s hair was long and wild down her back, and her shirt undone far enough to show the curve of her perfect breasts. Tashi’s powers were fully released, as the church fell into a silent hush. Tashi smiled, laying her small hand on the hilt of her sword. “Tonight I was attacked by, five muscle bound apes. And for what? Because I’m different then you?” “You are a Witch!” One woman screamed behind the cover of a bench, so Tashi didn’t know who said it. Tashi chuckled cockily. “I am many things …. But a witch I am not.” She untied her linen shirt and tugged her Egyptian necklace from her chest. “I am daughter of Isis… an Egyptian immortal... I have lived for thousands of years.” Her eyes once again sparked. “I will not be defeated by a bunch of hypocritical, pathetic, humans!” The Doomgaze fell over every male in the church. As their minds were attacked with visions, floods of feelings, deep lustful thoughts. Tashi had plagued their minds with such idea’s … that they never knew were in there. The woman sat horrified as the males began to strip butt naked and do unmentionable things to themselves, there mates... Or the local sheep. Tashi sighed very pleased with herself. She had managed to cause an entire village to fall in ruin. “No man… would ever mess with her, again.” she vowed, as she slithered her way out of the old steeple church. Moans... and echoes of pleasuring screams, ran through the halls of the church, happy sheep ‘Baaaaed’ off in the fields, when Tashi hopped back on the back of her steed. *~~*~~* Lord Lion-o didn’t know if he wanted to laugh helplessly, or hold Tara to console her. “You… Doomgazed the whole church, and all the village idiots ha?” He snorted, and snickered. Lion-o patted the bed for Tara to come join him. “So why hate men... because of one preacher?” Tara nestled her head in the lion’s chest. “Oh. No I had many run inns with foolish men, which was but the last on a long string of blowups.” She snorted. “But I surely showed that no good Preacher.” It was days before he was able to pull his head out of the sand. And forgive himself for everything that he had done…while under my spell. It was almost worth being punished.” “Remind me never to get on your bad side, dear.” Lion-o said nervously tugging on his mane. “I have seen your monkey boy, and now heard about this…. Goodness what else have you done?” “Don’t think you want to know.” She winked playfully at him. The engines of the large crafts hummed to life. “Ohh heavens... I got so wrapped up in your story that I forgot about the air show.” Lion-o jumped up and rushed towards the shower. Tara flopped back on the bed, rolled over once again thinking about the past. There was so much of that story that she hadn’t told him… so much that she just plain out didn’t have the heart to relay. Especially when months later, they had finally caught up to her… blindfolded her and dragged her off to prison. Where she was tried and convicted of being a witch. Tara hated the dark, for one reason, her eyes were covered, because they had learned that was the secret of her powers. For months on end she waited in that cold dark cell until the day she was to be burned Tara quickly tugged up the blankets, hiding inside them. Immersing herself in Lord Lion-o’s sent. Tears free fell from her eyes, and memories that she assumed were gone. Once again took over, eating away at her mind like ravenous wolves. “Tara do you need to shower?” Came the lions deep kind voice from the bathroom door way, his cheeks covered with a white shaving cream. He stood naked, awaiting her reply. “Tara?” He said again. Dropping his razor and walking towards the sniveling pile of sheets. Tara quickly tried to compose herself, wiping away the cascade of tears that now wet the mattress. “I’m fine... You finish then I’ll shower.” Lion-o wasn’t’ buying her farce, not for one moment. He slid down on the bed lying on his left arm. His free hand tugged back the blue material, err well tried too. Tara had latched her long claws in the sheets, not allowing him to access. Lion-o grumbled and tossed his hair from his face in frustration, his clean red mane was getting stuck in the sticky gunk around his cheeks. “Tara… you come out of there this instant.” “Go get ready, I’m sleeping.” She lied, unconvincingly. With a quick twist of his arm he had her tight, lifting her off the bed, sheets and all. Tara kicked and fought until he had her nestled on his big lap. He tugged once more with the blankets until he was able to free her face. “Sleeping doesn’t’ involve tears.” He said with a soft smile. “What’s wrong?” Tara hated showing her weakness to this great man, but she also knew that he understood her, loved her, and cared about her more then anything. It would do no good to fib to him, not when he could sense the truth. “Just more memories.” She said burring her head in his chest... her arms tightly locked around his neck. “I will go get ready.” She tried to climb off his lap only to be pulled back by his powerful hands. Lion-o did a quick glance at the clock. “No it’s only six... we still have time. Please tell what ever your hiding.” Lion-o’s amber eyes softened in to a deep caring gaze. “It’s important.” The side of Tara’s face drooped. “My biggest mistake was… not killing that Man. She cringed. “Richard Lankan.” Lion-o could see Tara’s face completely change, what ever had happened with this man, Ate away at her very soul. Her eyes were black with hate as she continued her story. “When I left the church, I knew that I couldn’t return to my home. My spell would only last a few hours, but it was enough time to get out of the town and away. I had managed to avoid all the roads, wandering from one of the village to the other. I had purchased another trip back home, crossing the Atlantic, but the next ship was scheduled to leave in two months. During that time I had no where to go… but to live on the land and stay away from everyone and anyone. For a time I lived with a native Indian Tribe that was so kind to take me in. I was content there, until again I heard roomers that I was being hunted down. The witch hunt had broadened; many innocent women were persecuted because they resembled me. Or acted oddly. All off which were tried and burned at the steak.” Tara swallowed hard in her throat; obviously deeply wounded by this. “The One man, who was in charge of the investigations, was the man who hated and loathed me, with every bit of breath in his body. Richard Lankin, once a preacher for god, now turned into a demonic persecutor.” Fall. Of 1693. The time had finally come; the ship had been docked at its port for a week as they readied the vessel, to travel once again, tirelessly across the vast blue colored ocean. The men had loaded buckets and crates of food and supplies, passengers, who wanted to return home, were now allowed to board. Tashi had waited for the very last moment to enter the ship. She had gone under an assumed name. “Sara. Henders.” Tashi straightened her long light blue colored dress and hid her dark hair beneath her white bonnet. All the rest of her possessions were in a small carpet bag, as she quietly moved towards the ship and up on the deck. Its white and brown mast stretched towards the sky, begging with the tussling wind to unfurl the sails, beckoning the ship back to sea. Tashi hadn’t noticed the Capitan. The same captain who flirted with her the Entire way from England once again, at the stern of the ship. He had recognized her, well who would ever forget her face, with its pale mysterious features, and her dark emerald eyes. Only offset by her raven colored hair. “Well hello my Lass, its nice to be having you aboard my vessel again.” He said quiet loudly and waved. Tashi’s heart sunk, when just about everyone on the ship turned towards her. “Don’t recognize me... she pleaded. Hoping that would be the end of it. But unfortunately it wasn’t. Old nosey britches. The Preacher himself had made a point to be at the dock every time a new ship left its harbor. He was determined not to be made the fool of again, and was always there lurking, waiting and watching. With in seconds a few of his men rushed the ship and grabbed tightly to Tashi’s arms. Spinning her, and tugging her bonnet from her hair. There was no mistake this time… he had the one he had been searching for. Tashi fought with all her might, begged, even resorted to pleading with him… that all she wanted to do was to return home. His heart had been hardened by the sinful things that she had made him do while under her Doomgaze spell. Even the kind Captain, tried to fight off the attackers, but he was quickly stabbed and silenced in other ways. They had learned, through trial and error that Tashi’s magic had limits, and through those limits were her eyes. Tashi was tossed into a Jail. A dank moldy rat infested cell with no windows, and only a small hay stack for a bed to sleep upon. .. A tin bucket for bodily waist, and her blind fold. It was pitch black in her cell, day and night but if she was to leave the room for any reason they would surly tie the black cloth around her eyes. And tether her palms behind her back. Tashi’s lonely ness consumed her, the darkness the most dreadful thing of all. The only thing that kept her hope was a faint voice that would talk to her through the bars of the iron cell. She slowly learned to trust this stranger, as one who would bring her meals. So her belly would not be empty. And who actually did more then beat her. Tashi found her self waiting for the man to come; he always arrived at the same time, to pay her company. The trials went on for long drug out months, where if she did not speak the truth. Or the truth that they were looking for. She would be stripped of her clothing in the middle of the court room and wiped, until her pale flesh was raw from the welts, created by the canes that struck her. Once back in the confinement’s of her cage the guards would take there turns tying her to the bed and riding her, until they had no more urges left. The next day the abuse would start all over again. “Tashi…” Whispered the soft spoken man through the iron door. “I have brought you a gift tonight, he said as he opened the bars, by feeling the lock with his fingers. Tashi could hear his feet pad across the stone floor finding his way towards her bed in the darkness. Tashi winced as he lowered himself to the edge of her bed and slipped a soft wrapped cloth towards her. Tashi’s fingers searched the crevasses of the material and slid it open. Inside was the most fragrant smelling pie. “Taste it… I have brought it for you.” He said kindly as his hand rested on her knee. “Why?” Tashi said, as her back slumped. “I don’t want to be the one to tell you this … but your hearing is finally over” He said. “You and three other Witches are to be burned in the town square tomorrow evening.” Tashi whimpered. She knew the flames would scorch her flesh, would destroy her body. But she also knew that her being an immortal… she would just rise again a few day’s later. It was the other women deaths that tormented her mind. Some one had to stop this… some how. The woman’s non emotion, the silence behind her voice caused the man to worry to think that something truly was amiss. “Did you hear me? He said again. “You are to Die.” “Yes I understand.” Tashi said softly as she took a bite from the cherry pie, which melted on her taste buds. “I will be glad for death” She said truthfully “To be free from here.” The man leaned up on his knees and touched the Egyptian tenderly on the shoulder. “Please grant me a few hours… of pleasure… before you leave me. I… I… have fallen for you… these last few months, all I can think of is you. If you truly are a witch then you have possessed my mind. And I careth not.” Tashi began to cry, she truly did believe that he cared for her, that his compassion was real. He had been so good to her, had been the one who tendered her injuries, he had slipped her from the cell long enough to bathe. Had snuck her in a blanket, when the chill of the snow out side had frozen her limbs, until she could no longer feel. Tashi felt as if this was the only gift she could give him, to return his kindness. They made love… softly tenderly, passionately. Afterwards he lay besides her rubbing her soft skin with his hands. “Tashi… I want to know the truth, I disserve to know all about the beautiful woman who has captured my heart.” He leaned down kissing her shoulder blade. “Tell me about what you said…. I have heard rumors that you called your self an Ancient Immortal?” He questioned as he rubbed. “I can’t…it was a mistake that I ever said that….” Tashi buried her head, knowing full well that if they could get her to reveal that. Any thing could happen. “So you have lied to the Judge?” The stranger in the darkness asked with growing curiosity. “I have never lied…The truth I speak in the walls of the court have never been untrue. I merely could not tell the court the complete truth, or they would surly find me insane.” Tashi said softly. “Please.” He urged. “You know I will never hurt you.” With a reluctant sigh she began. “I am Daughter… of the Egyptian gods… my home; my birth happened thousands of years ago.” If it was light enough Tashi could of seen the mans grin. The cocky smirk that now adorned his face. “Then truly you are crazed.” He pulled away from her and laughed. A torch lit on the other side of the bars, blinding Tashi. Her eyes had groan so accustomed to the dark. Now the light stung her like a thousand needles piercing her. “Do you know who I am?” He snarled as he tugged back on his breaches. Tashi sat up weeping as she hid her eyes from the flames. “No… no... I don’t understand.” I am the Preacher, my name is Richard Lankin, you destroyed me. And now I will return the favor.” The spiteful man hissed as he rushed from the cell bolting it. “I grow tired of waiting for the courts… so I will punish you myself.” With that he tossed in the flaming torch, it fell beneath the straw bed lighting it. Tashi clambered to her feet, then falling, tumbling. But with no where to run as the fire and the smoke enveloped the small room. The last words that echoed in her ears was. “Burn in hell witch... and may god have mercy on your soul.” Three days later… Tashi rose from her grave... her body once again reformed. And her memories all intact, she crawled from the Earth, breathing, grasping her chest. Her hair and body still smelt of smoke, of ash. The only thing left on her mind was revenge… and yes… she would have it. That night she laid siege to the town, to the court, to the church, to everyone and anyone who had been involved in her torment. Tashi laughed spitefully as the town of Salem Massachusetts burned to the ground, and all the people of the small village had died of strange and unusual deaths’. The Preacher? Well he still had the same shocked, drawn face, frozen. When Tashi took his head. She stood in the soothing highlight of the fire, still naked and covered in mud and dirt from her death bed. She looked down at the mans decapitated head still tight in her palm. And tossed it into the flames. Then walked once again alone… into the darkness. *~**~* Tara’s voice trailed off, as she once again rose from the bed walking silently towards the table that had two icy cold glass of water, she took a long drink… not wanting to glance back, she didn’t even want to see the look in the lions eyes. Her small hand trembling, the ice shook in the crystal goblet. Lion-o also was bewildered at what to say. The emptiness that Tashi must have felt, as she lived, and relived, a million things that had occurred. The betrayal, by the one man that she trusted; well, it all just suddenly made sense. All her insecurities, all her pain that she has had to withstand. Before he literally could not fathom. “That’s why you were punished by Osiris?” Lion-o stammered out. “For murdering those horrible people?” Tashi nodded as she sunk her head despairingly, glancing at the water as it swished around in her cup. Lion-o crept his way towards her, snaking his arms around her waist, tugging her back with all the tenderness and kindness that he had. Planting a soft kiss on her cheek. “I …I’m so glad that you trusted me, enough to tell me.” “Only you are worthy of my confidence, Lord Lion-o.” Tara said patting his arm. The lions attention once again was drawn out side as a large group of people had gathered. “Why don’t we just forget about the air show, I want to spend the entire day here with you.” The lion said purring in his wife’s ear. “Oh no, I do realize how much this means to you. And I’ll not have you miss it because of me.” Tara quickly spun and headed for the shower. “I’ll be dressed before you miss me.” She said just now noticing he was still standing there covered in shaving cream, and nothing else. The light from the window enhanced the golden hue of his dark pelt. She grinned contently, forcing her gaze from his powerful form. The king and Queen, and nobles stood beneath a small canopy, watching intently as the flock of Thunder Birds made their trademark rolls and twists, hundreds of feet up in the air, spinning. Then they would plummet to the ground at a alarming rate only to pull out of the dive and once again sped to the heavens. Tara covered her ears, and winced. Now she knew why they were called Thunderbirds. These dainty little ships made a noise worse then Thunder, as their back thrusters were lit, it was a loud boom that echoed. Panthro’s arms were folded across his broad chest, his legs spread in a most cocky position, his lips smeared with a smug grin. Tygra, was leaning up against the tent stand, amazed at the power the new armory had. It out wade even his own expectations. Poor Myra was being trampled by three terrified youngsters who were weeping and wailing because of the “Scary machines” Leanna brushed back here long ebony braid and leaned over to Tara, whispering in her ear. “Is it over yet? I’m getting a headache.” “Getting?” Tara said wincing as another jet sped by. Laith rushed towards his daddy’s legs and hid behind them, every time a ship would pass he would tug out his toy gun and pretend to fire. That is until Leathea snuck up behind the feisty red head cub, and smacked him hard in the back with her rag doll , then ran off. Therja made his way up behind Wiley Kit and Kat. “Now aren’t you glad you pulled your noses out of your homework to come and see this?” Wiley Kat beamed “Oh yes. This is awesome!” Kit rolled her eyes, “Men.” She snorted and headed for the buffet table full of refreshments. “Hum, what to pick?” She said eyeing the tasty treats. Pumyra, was knee deep in a conversation with Bengalli. Barley even watching the going’s on just above her head. Finally the bird’s landed and the cream of the Thundercats armory took off. This ship was as black as a Ravens wing, and was nicked named the Phantom, it was a stealth ship designed to be invisible to radar, to any type of detection. It was armed to the hilt with Laser guns, and was silent. Plus could travel distances in half the time it would take any other of the ships. “Oh, now this one I like Lion-o.” Tara said in amazement as its black shell glimmered. Its shiny sleek body began to lift off the grass, only a spray of air brushed the ground as it ascended. Lion-o wrapped his arm around Tara’s shoulder. “Why am I not surprised.” His eyes lit with mischief. “It’s the most expensive one.” After the show was over, the nobles mingled with the rest of the Thunderians who where still amazed by the new ships. It was almost a carnival type atmosphere with balloons for the children and small air plane toys. Drinks, food. All in all it had been a wonderful day. Dusk had once again, fallen, the stars and moon now a faint glimmer in the Thunderian sun set. Tara had just put Laith to bed, and then decided to follow Lion-o out in the back gardens of the Lair. The crisp evening air, helped revive the lion’s tiresome day. Lion-o inclined back on one of the bench swings, that lined the rose bushes. He sat drinking his long glass of juice. “This seat taken?” Tara said placing her hand on the kings broad shoulder. “Why Miss Tara.. for you nothing is ever taken.” The lion smiled and tugged the woman around the bench, until he took her waist lowering her on his lap. “What were you thinking about? You seemed deep in though.” The hybrid questioned, nestling herself in his big arms. “You.” Lion-o said once again tugging her hair from his face. “I can’t get that story you told me out of my head Nakoo.” “I didn’t tell you, just to have you fret.” “I know, but I can’t help it. No wonder you carry so many scars.” Lion-o said offering his drink to his wife. Tara grasp the glass and took a small sip from his nectar. “Truly m’Lord I am over it, it happened so long ago.” She fibbed, trying to bring him a bit of comfort. The lion scowled. “If that were true I wouldn’t have caught you in tears hiding beneath the sheets woman.” The cheetah merely blushed. “So, tell me about Osirus, and how did the time Warp Prison come into play.” “Goodness Lion-o if I get into that story, we will be talking all night.” She smirked trying to be elusive, hoping that he will just give up and not pursue it any further. Lion-o cocked his brow stubbornly. “And the problem with that is?” Tara once again took a deep breath and began to delve deep into her memories. Lord Lion-o was one of the most stubborn men she had ever met. And she knew that stalling, would just prolong the inevitable. Two days after the Massacre at Salem. Tashi eyes slowly began to flutter open, after all the destruction, and chaos the immortal had to rest, she was weak from her body reforming, she was tired, cold, and alone. But when she opened her eyes she was no longer laying in the same place that she had found to sleep. When Tashi’s emerald eyes glanced around the Ancient Temple of Osirus, she panicked. If her heart could stop at that moment, it would have. She tried to rise from the cold slab of stone that she was lying on. But she couldn’t, she was chained down, latched hands and feet to the Mummification table. Tashi squealed knowing that if she was here, she was in more trouble then she had ever been in. The Egyptian shook at the heavy iron latches trying to slide her palms from them. If I could get away.. if I could beg for the Gods forgiveness, perhaps I could save myself from Osirus’s wrath one more time. She sighed, even if she could escapee, there would be no where to go. A black heavy handed fist pounded the rock face next to Tashi’s hip. “What have you done this time?” Anubis the Jackal God said with a fearsome sneer. His yellowish eyes lit, as he leaned his muzzle close to the woman. “Let me go Anubis please!” Tashi begged, truly she was terrified for he had never seen such desperation behind her eyes. The ebony Jackal shook his head and backed away, “You knew the punishment for interfering again, I have no more power to aid you, and your constant mischief.” He stood back waiting for Osirus, in his one hand he stood holding a large golden staff. “How can you be this cruel!” Tashi screamed. “He is not the one who has been so heartless and brutal… that was you Tashi!” Osirus guided his way towards the stone alter. “You murdered them, maliciously.” The brilliant light of Osirus’s skin grew ten fold with his anger. “You are a vial undeserving child and I have been much to lenient with you! For your transgressions, and your past misdeeds, this time you will not go unpunished.” The golden god said spinning on his sandaled shoes. “My lord Please!” You do not know what they did to me obviously, or perhaps because of whom I am, you just don’t care?” Tashi managed to tug herself enough that she could lean on her bare elbow. The furious god froze. “I do realize.” He twisted. His eyes, deep heavy pools of azure blue. He clinched his jaw, the muscles tightening trying to force himself calm. Anubis still watched the pair, silently hoping for the best out come. Of all the Goddesses all the Immortals Tashi meant more to him then anything. “Then you do truly loathe me, Lord Osirus. The punishment that befell them was no more then they did to me.” Frightened tears now streamed from the woman’s pale face. Osirus furrowed one of his thick painted brows. “Yet you still live Tashi… do you not?” The woman nodded. “And what of them? The women, the children, that you have slain?” The god snarled and slapped Tashi’s face. Anubis head hung, he so much wanted to intervene on her behalf but he knew that would only anger the great god further. Tashi whimpered as the sting on her cheek, reverberated its pain. “You have tested my patients one to many times Tashi. I go to think.” The gods long cape spun in the air as he thumped his way down the ancient stare case, mumbling . Tashi drooped back on her slab and lay quietly sobbing, she knew that Osirus was off devising the most horrid retaliation that he could think of. Once Osirus was out of view, the Jackal god once again came to the woman’s side. Sitting down besides her, his long clawed hand lifted and soothed the redness of her soft cheek. With a pass of his wrist over the cuffs they unlatched. “I am to get you ready. Come.” Tashi began to tremble. “Oh.. no surly he wouldn’t do that?” Her eyes now wide and vacant. Thinking only of the fact that she could be Mummified … alive. Anubis took her hand and held her to steady her. “I do not know what he has planned, I just assumed that you would like to bathe and be ready, because just as the sun will rise over the Nile, so will Osirus return.” **~*~*~** Tara leaned back on the bench, her leg draped over Lord Lion-o’s “And that My Lord is the end of the story.” Her eyes trailed once more to the heavens and to the sparkling diamonds that lit the eve. “Oh no you don’t!” Lion-o said he hand lifting her skirt until he tickled her knees. “Don’t you dare leave me hanging.” Tara snorted with laughter and pushed his hands away. “Aren’t you sick of hearing me ramble on?” Lion-o shook his head, “Of coarse I’m not. But I am getting hungry.” He winked. “I’m going to the kitchen to get us a late night snack, and then you will” he emphasized the word Will. “Continue.” He moved from beneath her legs and stood, taking in a deep breath he walked off only to get slapped in the rear end by some mischievous hands. Shaking his head and grinning, he traipsed his way back through the gardens and into the Lair. The dainty woman’s’ mind once again frolicked in the past. Anubis truly did tend to Tashi, put her a bit at ease. Tashi spent the last few hours soaking in Anubis’ personal bathing font. Washing and primping while he waited. Finally when she had emerged from his room, she was dressed in a noble Egyptian attire, a long cascading plum colored sheer dress, and her ebony hair braided, and adorned with golden’ beads. Thick golden armlets adorned her arms, and a royal necklace choked her neck, its beaded strands dangled, covering most of her almost bare chest. The Jackal god stood and smiled handing Tashi her Ancient silver Dagger. “I was able to retrieve this.” He said slightly shifting nervously on his paws. “If Osirus knew.” He shook his head leery, “But I do fear for your safety, you might need it.” Tashi nodded silently and lifted her skirt to tether it once again at her thigh. “So I assume he has made a decision.” He did not answer her question instead when Tashi stood, the Jackals arms clasp around her. He tenderly pulled her into him, swathing her in his large muscular arms. His waist length ebony hair draped around her, in silken strands, and a passionate kiss followed. Tashi snarled and pulled away. “Enough men have used me Anubis. Not you too.” She spat. The jackal snatched her arm. “I have never taken one thing from you, that you willingly did not offer me.” The woman lowered her head to her hands “I know.” She wept. Once again he draped her in his arms, allowing her time to cry. Those humans had destroyed so much of her, he just couldn’t believe that Osirus did not see that. *~**~* “I’m back.” Chimed in a particularly chipper Lion-o, he plopped down setting a large tray of food just next to him. The lion lifted a strawberry, fresh, and ripe, towards the Hybrids lips. She took a bite, its succulent juice dribbled down the side of her mouth. Blushing she went to wipe it. But her fingers were tugged away and were replaced with a playful kiss. “Mm.. now that’s tasty .” He purred deeply. Tara laughed and sat up. He handed her one more fruit, and then grinned. “Ok, continue.” Tara sighed and began to twist the strawberry around her fingers, examining all its luscious sides. “After I bathed, and changed, once again Anubis took me to the stone alter. When I arrived back my mother was waiting at Osirus’s side. Her head was hung in disproval, and her usually immaculate appearance was stained with tears.” Lion-o leaned back, his one leg stretched and his fingers needing at his clef chin, listening intently. “Mother!” Tashi cried and ran, her bare feet padding the stone floor as she rushed towards the iridescent goddess. “Don’t!” Osirus hissed, and blocked Tashi’s path to her winged angel mother. Stunned Tashi froze, now face to face with the angered god, both of their eyes locked in intense loathing of each other. Tashi now noticed that they were no longer alone, as one ancient god after the other, began to appear from the shadows. Horus, Maftat, Wadjet, Sobeck, Maat, Nut, Bast, Set. So this was it the moment that would decide the beautiful priestess fate forever, one wrong move, one heated spiteful word from her mouth would seal her doom. Condemn her. Tashi inched backwards and flung her self on the floor beneath Osirus’s shimmering feet. “Forgive me M’Lord, Please grant me mercy.” She begged. The god of the underworld shook his head and those deep blue eyes, roamed her quaking form. “Tashi.. If it was anyone else I would have punished them long ago. I have always tried to have faith in you. But with every turn my hope is shattered, by one more devious thing you have done. No you are to be drained of your immortal stature, then you will be, beheaded.” The god said almost regretting his decision, but he had no choice. The very words from Osirus lips caused Tashi to grow deathly pale. “No please.” she wailed. Her arms clasping around her body to give herself strength, but there was no more to find. Anubis bounded towards the gods. “Yes Tashi has been troublesome, and difficult. However this punishment is heartless Osirus, and you know it.” He said waggling one of his ebony hands. “I agree Osirus.” The Crocodile god known as Sobeck said stepping forwards. “This beautiful creature is not all evil. I have seen her feed the hungry with her own food, and watch over the sick as if they were dying family.” The reptilian creature hissed, slumped his boney scaled back. his eyes were deep green slits in a dark black mist. Osirus rolled his eyes. “Ohh by the sons of the Pharaoh.!” He snorted. “And after she fed the hungry was there not a noble warrior , or prince some how in the same vicinity who by her good deeds she was able to work her way into their bed’s. Taking everything she wanted from them, including their minds.” The crocodile god thought for a moment, and then shut his gaping jaw. He backed up in line with the others, hanging his green head. Tashi finally looked up. Her black Egyptian paint around her eyes smeared with the downfall of salt water. “Anything but death.” She said fainthearted, “I will gladly accept any punishment, but please not beheading.” The woman sat up on her knees her head drooping sadly, not daring to look up for fear of collapsing right there. “I know many times my temper has forced me to do such horrible things, and no my heart has never been pure. I will change your mind one day Osirus. If you permit me to live.” Tashi vowed. The goddess Maat stepped forwards, grasping Osirus tightly on the shoulder, her head leaned in to whisper to him. (Maat was the honorable queen of truth, and Justice.) For a moment she tugged Osirus back towards Baset the Cat goddess, and Nut, the noble ruler of the sky and the heavens. Long drawn out whispers followed, as the group of archaic leaders, spoke of the fate of one of their priestesses. Anubis hesitated nervously, his stomach churning and rumbling deep clouds of thunder. This was too much, if he was reacting this way he couldn’t fathom what Tashi was feeling, or Isis for that matter. The beautiful soft hearted Goddess herself had moved away, into the shadows to attempt to steady her nerves. Hiding her face behind her soft feathered wings. Osirus thumped his way back towards Tashi, who was frozen with fear, barley breathing, knowing at any moment it could be her last. The golden god folded his arms arrogantly over his chest. “Very well Tashi… I will grant you life, but not freedom. You are to be imprisoned in the Time warp, for all eternity.” He hissed. Again the heavy hand of fate, grabbed at Tashi’s heart, squeezing. “Thank you M’Lord.” She was able to stammer out weakly. “So it is ordered, so it be done.” Osirus’s long bare arms rose to the heavens. Outside the sky blackened, lightening and thunderstruck with the most devastating roar. The very clouds moved, and there hovering in the dim light was a Ancient barge. Its sails boar the symbol of the tomes, and the obelisks, waving in its read and white colored banner’s. The ship its self looked like a wide mouthed creature, ten oars on each side, guiding the vessel through its endless destinations. The somber group trailed the passageway’s until they made their way out side of the palace, Tashi’s eternal prison awaited ominous in it’s appearance, it seamed to call to her beckoning her. Tashi’s eyes filled with loose tears as she gazed once again into the heavens. A Delicate clawed hand took hold of the priestess’s shoulder. “Sobeck and his minions have granted guardianship over you, they are to watch and make sure that you can gain your freedom in only one way. A magic spell, an ancient incantation.” Tashi looked curiously at the cat god Bast as she spoke, she watched as the lovely feline brushed multi colored stray hair from her chocolate colored cheeks, her beautiful green eyes sparkling. “Listen to me intently Tashi. A tuft of hair from a cheetah. A Burbile’s tear, and a shoe from an enchanted unicorn.” The goddess smirked showing her sharp canine teeth. “And a hero to take your place in the Time warp Prison.” She patted Tashi on the arm, “Remember, those are the key.” Tashi’s eyes narrowed, she did not have any idea on what most of those strange oddities that the cat goddess spoke of, even were, but she was too distraught to even question. Bast swathed a pink colored cape around Tashi’s shoulders. “This simple cloth is the sign of your bondage Tashi, this is the infinite power that will keep you, confined to the Astral Barge.” Two large crocodile men, approached Tashi standing on each side of her with spears in hand, they were to be her guards for all time. Watching and waiting. Tashi spun one more time, to glance over the horde of Gods that once she worshiped above all.; the handful of people that have loved her and cared for her, now they stand condemning her into the unknown. It was a surreal, moment where time seamed to freeze as she looked at them all for the last time. With her head hung, and her hands wringing nervously. She slowly made her way up the plank that led to the ship floating above the water of the Nile. Once aboard the barge, the plank evaporated. And with one more fearsome roar from the storm, the ship was gone. Now that the deed was done, the rest of the gods had returned to their, places of worship, all but two figures who stood in the darkness. Anubis and Isis, both holding each other unbridled sobs fell from both of them, as they united in sorrow. Tashi was gone, her life her fire, all that she had been to Egypt. The Power of The Doomgaze, and all the secrets that this one priestess carried within her beautiful emerald eyes, her heart, her soul. To them Lost…………….. *~**~**~* Tara once again resumed spinning the firm red fruit in her hands, she watched it just as intently as when she had began her tale. “From that perch high above in the heavens I watched many world wars, destruction, and the fall of the human race by its own horrific and tragic logic. They created weapons that were more powerful then even the wrath of the gods; and with it they destroyed all life, save for a few small bands of humans that remained. The beasts now radioactive, their bodies mutated and grew. “ Tashi rolled her eyes. “The worms, the birds, all transformed, into those strange creatures that Third Earth was full of. Fresh water, turned polluted by the scourge of fall out, until it also changed the very face of the land, causing Tar and Acid lakes. Egypt itself was buried by a flood of sand storms, save for the one Ever existing creature Mumm-Ra. First Earth and its mysteries entombed by the bones of the dead. The mighty lions gaze lowered, and his arms swept Tara into them as if he was possessed. “I love you!” Lion-o said with a quaking voice. Tara could barely breathe as the crushing strength of her beloved clasped around her like a vice. The weight and burden that this lovely woman had on her ancient shoulders, the shear historical notations, that still taxed her mind. The lion felt like a fool for not having something more to say to her, then to proclaim his adoration. But how ever unimportant the words were, they did come from his heart, deeply embedded in his very soul. All he could do was surrender to his emotions and grasp her tightly, never wanting her to be able to escapee again from the safety of his arms. “From the first moment’ that my eyes caressed your face I knew. You bewitched me, as no one ever had before.” Lion-o said now nuzzling her ear, with his firm wet lips. Tashi let out a pleased chuckle. “Who… which one of us did that, I Tashi with my Doomgaze, or your Cheetah with her unmatchable speed?” The lion pulled away long enough to allow her to see the devious smirk that now incorporated his lips, the side of his mouth drawn up into a crooked cryptic smile. “You… Tara. And that is all you ever need know.” He said once again savagely pulling her until they met together, body’s melding as he made healing love to her mouth, with his succulent tongue. How can I ever choose between the two women that formed into his perfect mate. He would happily take the evil, with the good. The Temptress with the heroin. The Immortal, and his beloved cheetah, Meshed together perfectly just as their love was now. They were complete, as was Thundera’s king. Destiny, and Life fulfilled.