Thundercats Fanfic 2011- Twisted chains of fate

Chapter 22

The crazy prince

It was late night over the terrace. Reia could not rest and her fingers were anxious to finish her work. It had been tiresome after so many days of squeezing her neurons for every drop of information. And it had been fruitful after all. She couldn't wait to see Maryam's face after two weeks of hard dedication. Her fingers traced the last words of Nadia's story and a sudden satisfaction made her eyes close in bliss. It was done. Finally every word transcribed as genuinely as possible. Biting her lower lip she opened her eyes admiring the stars sprinkled on the black sky. It was as if they cheered at her accomplishment with every blink.

Finally a part of you is back…

She closed her notebook and breathed in and out and rose to her full height.

I'm not that useless after all. Next step… Figuring out this riddled mess!

She reminded herself with a heavy sigh.

These last weeks… She hadn't been herself at all. The dreams, coping with Jagnar's presence, the book and above all, the reunion with Jaga. Had consumed all her energies and in the reunion with Jaga, she had been silent. Well beside the fact that she was mute, she had the opportunity to write her questions. Still, she allowed May to take the lead while she listened carefully and assessed the situation at hand. She observed, listened and studied the answers carefully. Jaga had been kind and thoughtful with his treatment towards them. Also he was impressive and mysterious, as the first time they'd met. Never giving away more than what he needed to. It was amazing how he had casually addressed them as equals with such simple details. It hadn't been easy for May to talk to a holy cat-man, but she managed it the best she could. Nevertheless she had seen his good intentions, his wonder, his intrigue and will to help in each gesture. The bracelets were relics made by cats. Her bracelet was apparently dead or out of energy. And they could be holders as much as any other thing. Adding to that, he had said that they were given to them for a reason. Nadia had given them the bracelets for safe keeping or some sort of proof that her story was true. But when had she actually arrived on Third Earth to begin with?

Maybe she didn't even sent that package to them…

Then who had?

She sighed rubbing her forehead. Nothing came to mind.

She held the book close and raised her hand to her mouth, biting her index finger absently.

All the dreams she had been through couldn't be related to her bracelet, because hers was lifeless according to Jaga. What had ruined it in such a way was another mystery to add to all the questions. And she had done well to concentrate on Jaga's answers rather than butt-in to the conversation. His words, his thoughts, his body language were elements worth studying.

He saw something special in all things… A meaning maybe.

And something beyond her understanding, she concluded.

Another thing she thought about was what he had said about Panthro. She acknowledged that May had done well in revealing that fact. His previous blurry statement made all the sense in the world now…

"I too had a friend… His name was Grune"

She shivered remembering his struggled explanation.

"He too served the king in equal terms as mine… We had an important task that King Claudus had entrusted us. He betrayed me and our king…"

Rei rubbed her neck nervously and shut her eyes briefly remembering his sad expression.

He was talking about how he had failed to retrieve the Book of Omens… And he stated that Grune had betrayed him. So it was understandable why somebody like Panthro would take such a situation into his own hands before alerting the King.

This was personal

So he left to finish what he had started before returning to his beloved city. Rei shook her head as she realized how all the pieces fit in place; this made her worry: for Panthro, for the outcome of his journey and their fate in all of this mess.

The last dream had been upsetting. But even though she tried to convince herself it was just a dream, it brought an uneasy feeling in her chest.

As she turned around to head back to her room for a well-deserved rest, her eyes almost caught a glimpse of a shadow, it disappeared as soon as she turned to face it. But surely her mind was playing tricks on her.

Maybe I am losing my mind

She placed a loose strand behind her ear thoughtfully recalling her childhood sleepovers. Maryam always had a flashlight with her. At first it had been to scare away monsters and ghosts. But eventually it became sort of a game. Maryam would hold the flashlight, and Rei along with Nadia, would make shapes with their hands playing with the shadows. She remembered Nadia excelled at that game so well, that May sometimes included noises to give them life because she lacked the talent. It made Maryam feel an active participant so to speak and it was so much fun that they even made silly stories while Nadia moved her agile fingers playing with the light. Such a simple thing, which brought so much happiness, making the memory even more comforting and vivid.

No… Since that day, we've never been afraid of shadows have we?

She smiled and walked with ease. It was time to rest with the company of good memories not scary shadows. She looked at the moon and breathed deeply.

One more day left to return to Jaga and hopefully have more answers

May walked in the ally feeling observed. She continued her path with Rei who seemed perky and oblivious to dangers. Her posture and relaxed shoulders assured May she was in some world of happy thoughts. She grinned and continued onwards to Jorma's place. It had been a month or so and she had been interested in the rumors the kittens had shared. She attended most of the slum bars and alleyways in an attempt to eavesdrop on anything related to the subject. Despite all her efforts nothing came up. So she was a little depressed regarding that matter in particular. Also it drove her nuts not have a certainty of the lizard threat. The thought of being caught in a warzone unsettled her. Nonetheless, it was stupid to worry about something that hadn't occurred yet.

Live the now…

So she squared her shoulders and moved on.

It took a while to reach Jorma's home, the squiggly path in ascension was awful, and rocks were all over the place.

If only people here made decent boots! What would I give for sturdy adventurer boots!

She grimaced while raising her legs pushing her body to move, ignoring the evil pebbles that made their way through her sandals. Reia was walking ahead of her, appearing more eager and less tiered than her.

"I hate sandals! I truly do!" Maryam grumbled in a bad mood.

Rei patted her shoulder and signaled her to move along. She couldn't help feel a little curious of Rei's upbeat behavior. It was like she was extra thrilled to go out and see the world.

Suspicious… Suspicious indeed!

May put her thoughts aside and ventured forth to Jorma's location. They were almost there.

When they arrived they knocked and Jorma invited them in without staring their way, too concentrated in an object of his collection. May sat on a chair and Rei immediately walked over to the small kitchen to make Jorma's favorite tea. Apparently dogs liked tea… She laughed imagining Jorma draped in English attire of the eighteen hundreds and a monocle in his right eye. She instantly began laughing and her stomach hurt. Not being able to stop, Jorma looked at her perplexed.

"What on earth are you laughing about? Have I done something funny?" Jorma inquired raising a bushy brow.

Maryam barely refrained her laughter and struggled to speak.

"No…No… It's nothing" she placed a hand over her mouth and giggled.

"Well then, would like to see my latest find?" Jorma snickered and motioned her to join his side.

"Sure! What is it?" May asked intrigued.

It was a circular tech artifact with a lens. Similar to the Frisbee thing Nadia had given them, but not quite the shape. It looked more like an old cd-player from back home. It didn't have any buttons, and it didn't resemble the Frisbee object. So her shoulders sagged and she blew a strand of hair of her face frustrated.

"Do you know what it is?" She asked with less interest than before.

"I haven't the slightest idea… But it certainly is the most intact tech I've ever encountered… Look at it!" He gestured and poked it with an instrument similar to a dentist's dental probe. He touched it delicately and moved it closer to his lamp "It so beautiful… Just look at it! Such intricate design, untarnished and unscathed by time… I mean it seems to be made of metal and some other material which should make it heavy. Yet it weighs nothing! How can that be?" His voice sounded passionate and amazed.

"You seem fascinated Jorma… It is a great find though. It looks real and intact." She acknowledged with a smile.

He returned her smile and continued poking and moving the cd-player around. Meanwhile she searched the place hoping to find something of value to her. She watched Rei move the curtain with a tray of three cups of tea and cookies, when suddenly Jorma began to sniff the air around him.

"Well it looks like tea and cookies still are the winners against your hobby Jorma…" She laughed and elbowed him.

Jorma stood agitated and his eyes seemed to pop out of his head. May realized he might not be sniffing the treats and beverage at all.

"I wasn't expecting him to visit today…" Jorma spoke astounded.

May narrowed her eyes at Jorma's sudden declaration.

"What are you talking about? Who's coming?" She glared distrustful.

Jorma shook his head and pushed her slightly towards the kitchen. May instinctively caught his hand to prevent his sudden approach.

"What are you doing?"

Jorma groaned and frowned at her.

"I'm trying to keep you unseen… He´s only steps away! Get in the kitchen before he arrives. He's not alone…" Maryam seemed to hesitate, too curious about the reason behind his odd behavior. Jorma exhaled an exasperated breath as she released his hand. "It's a client of mine girl… Get in the kitchen! Don't peek or say a word while he's here. And don't come out until I tell you to do so!" He warned.

May blinked at him and turned around pushing Reia to the kitchen along with her.

"You should have said that in the first place… For a moment there, I thought you were turning us in!" May whispered annoyed.

"Oh don't be ridiculous May! Go!" Jorma gestured them to leave waving his paws.

May retreated to the kitchen and straightened the curtain behind her.

Jorma could really use some doors…

May smiled when she saw Rei's puzzled expression. She took the tray and placed it on the tiny counter on their side. Waiting in silence, May soon heard the approaching of footsteps and the clatter of chimes from the entrance. She held her breath and ushered Reia to stay close to the curtain. At least they could see the shadows and overhear the conversation. After all it was just a piece of fabric shielding them.

"What is all this?" A female voice spoke.

Then she heard a male voice.

"It's what's out there… Beyond Thundera's walls" He replied.

May fought the urge to pry on Jorma's unexpected reunion. But her hands quickly motioned to move the fabric just a fraction to peek through, too intrigued by the secrecy and the clacking of objects. When she was about to reach the curtain, Reia grabbed her arm instantly before she could move any further and looked at her with disapproval. May jiggled her arm free and lightly slapped Reia's hand in response. Reia huffed and began slapping back initiating a sort of cat fight. Until May managed to grab her hands and gave Rei an irresistible pleading stare. She watched her friend free her hands from her grasp and place them on her hips. Finally Rei made a surrendering gesture turning her back on her.

May smiled victorious and thanked their luck for being able to have a small fight without noise. She moved the fabric slightly and peered at the room. Jorma was looking at someone, but she couldn't see who it was, yet.

"What the Book of Omens calls… Technology!" The young male's voice stated.

Her eyes opened wide stunned to the core by his words… Jolting her senses and she felt Reia's hand rest on her back suddenly.

She must've heard him

"Doesn't everyone think those stories are just fairytales?" The female voice answered skeptically.

May was dazzled at the mentioning of the book. Who were these people? She asked herself drowned in frustration for not being able to see their faces. Her field of vision, only allowed her to see Jorma and his working station.

Suddenly the footsteps drew closer and Jorma turned around to face his desk while he clutched the rag that was covering his precious find. Simultaneously the two clients inclined their heads beside him and now she saw them as clear as daylight.

"You think this is a fairytale?" Jorma interrupted as he uncovered his prized loot.

It was the younger prince she had seen at the games briefly… She hadn't seen him well. But the profile fit perfectly.

He was with a tall blond cat. By her pelt, she looked like a cheetah. A very beautiful cat-woman with long golden hair. They were both in trance gazing at Jorma's Cd-player.

Her hands shook slightly as she blinked to take in the scene. Her hand instinctively extended behind her back feeling the space around her to grab Rei's hand. Once she caught it, she pulled her vigorously, forcing her to stand in her place. At her reluctance, May was a little forceful and pushed Reia's head to peek through the curtain.

Reia stood a step away turning her back on May. She was a little frustrated at May's childish curiosity. She didn't approve of May spying on Jorma's unexpected guests. No wonder she had no authority over the kittens. Maryam was an unruly kitten herself, she thought crossing her arms over her chest. After all he was strict with his client's privacy. What merchant wouldn't, especially if he dealt with black market items. She huffed a breath and remained offended until she heard the cat, who she assumed was a male by his voice, mentioning the Book of Omens. His voice stirred something inside her.

I've heard that voice before…

Then she heard the female respond in disbelief, shaking her from her thoughts. She held her breath and placed a hand on May's back, making her aware that she had heard him. It didn't surprise her that some people might be open minded. But she certainly didn't expect someone to talk about the Book of Omens so lightly, even revealing that it spoke of technology.

Then Jorma spoke again.

"You think this is a fairytale?"

She heard the rustle of fabric.

Then she felt Maryam's heartbeat quicken, matching hers. May was so still; she wondered what she was seeing. But she refused to join her in this wicked invasion of privacy.

Without warning, May reached out to her not sparing a glance, finally grabbing her wrist to pull her with full force. Maryam's other hand, traveled to her head brutally, forcing her to look through the hole between fabric and frame.

All she saw was a tall woman hunching over the table, her head with long blonde hair blocking her view.

As she tried to pull away, Maryam kept a firm hold on her head. Commanding her to stay put.

"I think it's probably just another fake, people like you, sell to people like him" The female cat said raising her head, allowing her to see the rest of the company.

Reia recognized the blue cloak instantly. Except now, the stranger wasn't hiding his face anymore. It was the same person they had bumped into the first day they met Jorma. The same wanderer, who had stepped in to help them against the lowlifes in the slums, she couldn't have mistaken him. His voice had sounded familiar because it was him. There was no doubt about it. And now she could see his face clearly. He looked young, perhaps a year or two older than them. He had thick spiky red hair and the same sideburns she had noticed when he helped her up. He had a handsome face, with thick red eyebrows, crystal deep blue eyes, a slightly pointy nose. She recognized the same thin lips she had seen before and a stubborn chin. A mixture between mocha and sandy white colored fur framed his face and his nose elegantly, just like his arms. He had big pointy ears but not as long as Jagnar's. Strong built, but shorter than the female who stood beside Jorma. His face seemed serious and focused as he looked at the technological artifact in his hands.

"As cubs we believed the tales about ships that could fly. Maybe everyone else outgrew them, but... I didn't" he paused "I know there's a bigger world out there!"

Reia released a breath as she heard his statement. His voice was hopeful and soothing, with a tinge of innocence. She couldn't help feel a sudden admiration for his words. He was someone in search of a dream. Someone who had strong beliefs in legends that he thought had some truth to them.

He looked at the blonde cat-woman and said.

"You think I'm crazy, don't you?"

People usually think that about all dreamers… Like Newton or Galileo. All crazy! Crazy is good in my book.

She thought to herself and smirked.

"I think you´re … Different" The cat-woman replied.

Yup…

She couldn't agree more. He was very different from all the narrow minded cats she had seen. But who was this guy, that Maryam felt it urgent for her to see him? He seemed like any other cat. Admittedly handsome, and slightly different from the common folk because of his clothes. He looked approachable though.

The bell of the Town Hall rang in the distance. Shaking her focus from her musings and she returned her stare to the young cat-man when he gasped. He looked startled and his face contorted in swift realization.

"Oh! I'm late…" He threw some coins at Jorma "I'll take it!" He raised a strong arm to his hood and smiled showing his protruding canines.

Such a warm charming smile!

"Maybe next time, I can bail you out of trouble." He offered with a wink as he covered his face and turned around. Reia saw him leave quickly followed by his cat-monkey pet and felt curiosity eating her away.

"Definitely different…" The apparent cheetah murmured. Her pelt was mixture of beautiful gold and yellows with brown spots, tall slim figure, long lean legs, strong arms, a lean waist and astonishingly big breasts. Reia acknowledged her beauty immediately. In comparison to most of the female cats she had seen, the Cheetah appeared like someone who worked out and wasn't very lady like. Less uptight and refined "Well then… I have to go too." She said turning around waving at Jorma. "See ya!"

Like a bolt of light, she left the room speedily leaving Jorma and her gaping. Reia had never seen someone with such speed and elegance in all her life.

She's like Flash? Oh great! No I sound like geeky May!

Her pulse faltered and she was caught unaware when Jorma suddenly walked straight to them. He opened the curtain and May's hand quickly left her head.

"You're worse than cats!" He barked and placed his fists over his hips. He looked at them reprehending both with his stare. "Did you enjoy snooping on my personal affairs?"

Reia looked at May and scowled. Of course Jorma would be upset! She observed May pout innocently and raise her hands in surrender.

"You have to admit, it wasn't totally our fault… I mean we were close enough to hear everything you said without even looking!"

He Gruneted something and scratched his mustache. And Rei had to agree she had a valid point.

May raised a hand to her ear smiling mischievously, as if trying to hear something.

"Is that the sound of defeat?" Maryam said.

Jorma's shoulders sagged and he sighed deeply.

"I suppose you're right… I just wasn't expecting him to show up today. He's a particularly special customer." He approached to take a cookie "Can I trust you in keeping this to yourselves?" He bit the cookie and raised a brow.

"Sure! One question though! Just to make sure I'm not imagining things…"

Reia twisted her head to the side confused. She noticed that Maryam looked slightly excited.

Jorma bit into his cookie, savoring it while he stared at May.

"Well go on then… I think you heard and saw enough to satisfy your interests. What do you wish to know?"

"Is that customer who I think he is?" Maryam inquired with a thirsty look on her face.

Jorma bit another chunk of cookie and sipped some tea very slowly.

"Who?" Jorma responded nonchalantly, enjoying May's suffering.

"The guy with the red hair! The one you sold your valuable acquisition to!" May said exasperated. Reia pressed her lips firmly, trying really hard not to smile.

"Oh… That one! Who do you think he is?" He said playing dumb as he slowly reached for another cookie.

"Oh for God sakes Jorma! Come on! Work with me here!" She lunged at him, taking the plate of cookies and the one from his hand.

Jorma laughed immediately.

"He's the prince isn't he? Your special unexpected customer is the Kings son, Prince Lion'O."

Reia had to hold on to something before her legs gave away and would surely fall. Her eyes roamed all over Jorma's stance.

Prince? He's a prince?

She gasped and gulped air as well. Now she was searching for his face in her memories. She hadn't been able to see him when Lynxia pointed him out at the games. At that moment, her mind was too busy thinking what Reia had told her about the tiger. The other prince… Also she had to admit, her eyes had only laid upon May and Jagnar that night. Well, and the games of course…

A prince in the slums, looking for lost technology?

Not the typical stuck up prince she imagined at all. After what May had said about prince Tygra, she just assumed he would be just like him. She also had imagined he'd be childish or plain weird, because of the vicious rumors. Everyone spoke of his odd behavior, like it was vile and indecent. And she couldn't help feel a little guilty for her prejudice.

Well he is weird compared to others… But a good kind of weird!

Her head snapped back to reality when Jorma spoke.

"You evil little thing! If you knew, why did you need me to tell you? Give the cookies back!" Jorma spat.

Reia raised a hand to her mouth and suppressed her laugh as much as she could. She slapped May's shoulder lightly.

"Well I just wanted to make sure I wasn't going crazy…That's all! Here. You can have your cookies. Stop pouting at me"

She always gets what she want, doesn't she?

"Let's just sit and enjoy the snack shall we? I think I've outdone myself this time! They´re scrumptious and just perfect" He declared taking the plate from Maryam's grasp.

"Yeah sure! Another question though…" May took the tray and paced to the work station.

"If you must…" Jorma sat in his small chair casually.

"How long has he been coming here? And why does he have such a big interest in technology?" Maryam asked confused.

Jorma sighed scratching his ears vibrantly.

"He's the best customer I have… He's been visiting me ever since he was old enough to do so. I would say around the age of thirteen or fourteen maybe. Sometimes his brother followed him, because his father didn't approve of him wandering around the streets. It's improper conduct for a prince… And the slums being the least of all places for someone of his stature" He drank a sip of tea and Reia leaned on the wall totally absorbed by Jorma's story "Also, he has helped me in the worst of times with good coin. Not many value these sorts of collectibles. Especially cats! Too skeptical to buy worthless junk you see" he steadied himself and smiled "My customers are usually blacksmiths or stray children looking for toys they talk about in fairytales… Yet the prince has always been kind and very curious. Since I met him, I knew he had no notion of his importance to the crown. He never treated me like most of the cats, never looked at me the way they did. I can still remember his innocent face when I told him to leave. He came back again the next day, with ten thunderian gold coins! Can you imagine how startled I was? How scared I was of the consequences if I allowed this child to see the collection? I mean we are in the City of cats…" He laughed and Reia smiled along with him amused. He seemed to care deeply for the crazy prince. "I could've taken advantage of his coin. I was very poor and an angry dog at that time. But something in the way he looked at me made reconsider… So I gave him cookies, some milk and a couple of small things. I refused his offering, but when he left, there were five thunderian gold coins on my work station." He exhaled deeply wiggling his mustache "He believes the stories and the rumors so much, he has dedicated his short life to it, without thought or care of what others might think of it. So, he is shunned by many, because to the cats, he is still acting like a child." Jorma stared into his cup quietly then continued "I just think he has bigger dreams than most."

May nodded and Reia raised a hand to her chest. The story had struck a chord in her. She could easily imagine the scene in her head from what she collected.

"Well don't worry… I won't tell on you." May tapped his shoulder "He seems like a good guy."

Jorma inclined his head in agreement.

Rei took a clean slate and wrote a question for Jorma.

'If cats are curious why do they avoid or show disbelief instead of asking questions about these stories?'

Then she handed it to him awaiting his answer. May peeked at it from the rim of her eye and she also looked at Jorma expectantly.

"Fear pushes away even the most curious of races sweet Rei. As there are stories of great contraptions and glorious technology, there are also the tales of the destruction that followed it. Cats are fearful and wary of what they don't understand, naturally. But they think they have the only truth and power over the rest of us. Clearly stating they are the more evolved and civilized of all the animals. Believing their ways keeps the peace and prosperity… "

Reia and May fell silent.

There was nothing more to say. They couldn't make comments or defend anyone. Choosing to remain as neutral as possible in these circumstances and Reia wondered if the prince would have a chance in changing things once he proved he was right. Surely people wouldn't take it kindly and maybe he'd be declared a madman. But maybe there was hope for him to thrive in his quest. You need to throw the first pebble to create a ripple and change fate, she reasoned. Although the burden of changing the thoughts of thousands of people could be something almost impossible to achieve if he wasn't supported.

Suddenly she remembered his innocent face and dreamy features as he had stared at the tech object in his hand, as if it was the most precious treasure in the world. Maybe as he matured and gained a little help he could change the world.

Changes always begin with a dream…

Who knew? Maybe he was just the crazy person his people would need someday. She took a cookie and Maryam followed her.

"Jorma?" her friend said between crunchy bites.

"Yes May?" Jorma cocked a brow.

"What do you put in these things that make them so delicious and crunchy?" She asked with a mouthful.

Jorma waved a hand dismissing her question.

"I wouldn't dare reveal my family recipe!"

"Oh, come on! Maybe Reia can learn how to make them some day. She's a great cook!" She suggested and then swallowed.

"Well, if you insist…" May nodded vigorously at him "The secret is adding crushed bird bones and insect burly bottoms which have sweet nectar! Add it some butter and flower in the mix and you've got Jorma delights! It's very nutritious"

Rei began to feel her stomach churn and bile rose to her throat as she took in Jorma's revelation. She covered her mouth and realized those black things in the cookies weren't raisins. And she watched May jolt off her feet and spin with haste towards the kitchen sink.

"Oh my God Jorma!" She yelled furiously.

"Who is this God of yours? He must be sick of your wining." Jorma laughed and raised a hand to snout.

She cursed May endlessly for being so inquisitive and snoopy.

She had to ask!

Was her last thought before she went to the bathroom to spill her guts.

After a brief tea time with Jorma, Maryam decided to leave quickly, in case the nausea continued. She walked through the slums humming to herself while Reia was ahead looking at some food post. No doubt looking for something sweet to ash off the foul taste in their mouth. The kittens would benefit as well, since like any other kids, they loved sweets.

Slowing her pace to give Reia a little time she still felt observed since they got out of the house. It was odd, because she couldn't see anyone suspicious following them around. Just a silly hunch, she supposed.

I'm growing paranoid. Stop imagining things!

She scolded herself and slapped her forehead.

As May approached Reia , she saw her friend carry a pretty big bag in her hand. When she was about to inspect the contents to see what Rei had bought, her hand froze midway. Her limbs stiffened as she felt her heart thump violently in her chest. Her breath caught, as her heart smacked her ribs. Her eyes locked with Rei's questioning stare. She couldn´t move, but she heard the bag hit the ground when it slipped Reia's grasp. She witnessed her friend's similar anguish as her skin grew paler and her eyes became unfocused.

'Thump'

Another violent beat hammered her chest and she winced at the pain. Her vision blurred. She tried to say something, but the words turned sluggish and sloppy. A pang of heat consumed her skin and she exuded cold sweat. As much as she tried to focus and seize control of her body, the symptoms grew stronger, like waves of energy taking hold of her. She shivered as her body suffered constant changes of heat and cold.

Maybe it's just a really bad fever.

She thought of the cookies. But as much as she hated the ingredients, they had eaten them before, and had been fine.

Somatizing a fever?

There could be many reasons; still she wasn't able to do anything to stop it. She blinked and her hand tried slowly to reach Rei's. Their surrounding had turned dark and blurry. She tried to control her breath and slow her pulse to make heart slow down. The way it pumped and expanded in her chest was unnatural, like it was being moved or manipulated by some force. She forced her breathing to slow and finally caught Reia's hand to steady her. She looked so pale and in shock, it scared her. But she couldn't allow fear to accelerate her pulse. The idea was to calm down. The panic and the anxiety had to subside to recover control.

As she pressed Rei's hand tightly, she heard hisses all around her. But everything was so dark and hazy she couldn't see what was making those horrible sounds. A shriek of pain resounded. But she knew Rei hadn't screamed. Her mouth was so tightly sealed and her features distorted. The scream was so powerful that her chest hurt even worse than it had. And as she fell on her knees, all she could see was red and black swirls surrounding them.

Sudden warmth touched her shoulder lightly. Unable to turn her head she slouched breathing hard. She could make out Rei´s delicate form lying on the floor while she held her hand.

Please stop!

She pleaded.

The sound of a weak voice called her name. So frightened and worried. Willing all her strength to return, she listened carefully.

'ayyyy…Marya…mmm'

Who's calling me?

"Maryam!" The tiny voice said "Come on May! Wake up!"

May focused on the tune of his call.

A boy?

"Come on May! Get up! What's wrong with you?" he said worriedly.

She somewhat raised her head to try to see him. His face a blurry haze of gold and brown.

Wily-Kat?

He blinked at her worried and she tried to speak but failed.

"Can you hear me? Please!" he said urgently.

Another voice spoke and soon gushes and murmurs along with it.

"Rei's getting up!" A girl's voice cheered.

Wily-Kit? Thank God!

She pressed her eyelids shut and Gruneted, feeling everything stiff and sore. Her mouth opened forcefully as she saw Wily-Kat's eyes blinking at her.

"Kat…Help me…up!" She slurred.

"She's fine! You help Rei sis' ".

As she stood she began to regain her sight like flashing pictures. Apparently quite a crowd had gathered around them and it made her frown. Gaining attention from strangers wasn't good. So she pushed her feet allowing Kat to take her weight. It wasn't a pretty stride, but soon her breath turned normal and she could see everything. No blackness. Reia was beside her, struggling with Kit who asked her if she was okay every five seconds.

"I'm okay Kat…I can stand alone" She assured him.

"For real?" he asked distrustful.

"For real little guy… For real" She smiled at him and he purred hugging her middle.

May held him close to calm him.

"So you were following us huh?" She bent her head and smiled at him. He suddenly shrugged and looked away.

"Sort of…" he said shyly and tinge of red on his cheeks "It was Kit's idea to sneak on you…"

"Well I'm really glad you did! But no sneaking next time!" She rubbed his hair playfully.

Looking at Rei, she noticed she also had recovered. Her steps were sure and she looked back over her shoulder, with a questioning expression.

Yeah… What the hell is happening?

Thankfully tomorrow Jaga could have some answers for them. She raised her hand contemplating the bracelet on her wrist.

I hate fever and snakes you know… That wasn't funny!

She shook her head realizing she was mentally talking to an inanimate jewelry. She scowled at it and cursed silently. They needed to get back home before sundown. Running around after such a horrible panic attack wasn't a good idea.

"Rei? You okay?" She shouted.

Rei nodded and made a walking gesture with her fingers, and then a roof joining her hands.

"Yeah… Let's go home before this gets worse." She agreed.

"We'll tag along!" Kit said hugging Rei's arm.

"Well what a lucky day for such an escort!"

Wily-Kat puffed his chest and placed his hands on his hips. Standing straight as if he had grown a few inches and she realized one of his hands was holding the bag of sweet goodies. May laughed and hugged her stomach not being able to hold it. Her outburst shocked the three of them who looked at her as if she were crazy.

"I didn't know I had insurance for my stuff as well!" She continued laughing.

Kit and Rei looked at each other and Kat frowned moving his tale impatiently.

"Never mind!" She said and began walking.

Around four in the afternoon, Lynxaris appeared at their doorstep with a very somber aura, Maryam acknowledge. Thankfully they had told the kittens to leave them so they could rest.

Lynxaris seemed off somehow. He hadn't even tasted his soup, which was a shocker since he was very proud of his cuisine. He laid Reia's fresh set of paper and sat down quietly. May tossed her soup in the sink and she realized the old geezer hadn't even heard her. Lynxaris's cane thumped on the floor steadily while he nodded absently. He didn't even pay attention to Rei's writing…

An abrupt huff caught her attention.

It was Lynxaris patting Reis head in front of the fading fire.

"There have been others here…" He declared absently.

May froze in her place, the hair of her arms prickled and her jaw clenched. She couldn't hear Rei move either; surely she too was caught in a whirlwind of panic. Just when she was about to answer, Lynxaris interrupted her.

"And by your silence, I assume you have been outside without proper escort. This place reeks of Milcura flowers and dirty clothes! Not to mentions the rotten sent of cats! Who certainly do not belong to my kin!"

May was dumbstruck and agitated at his angry words. His eyes pierced her soul and she straightened her shoulder in defiance. She wasn't going to squirm under his stare or his accusations. She had to speak out.

"You've gone coo coo old man. How dare you accuse us of such a thing?" she answered calmly. "Must be that nasty soup that's intoxicated your brain or something!"

There was no way she could deny the intrusion of the kittens or the excessive incense. But she had to stand up in denial. This was serious. Apparently Lynxaris's nose was as sharp as he had claimed, or maybe Rei's incense didn't work with him. Then why hadn't Jagnar smelled the scents as well?

"I was debating on whether to kick your hides or tell my grandson… Do you realize the meaning of your little foolish escapes? Do you even realize the consequences of such disobedience?" He howled in rage as he stood, his eyes flashing at her menacingly.

"Nothing happened old man!" May spat in anger.

"Stop lying you little wench!" He hit the floor with his cane violently. "Nothing happened?" He scoffed "You betrayed my grandson and fooled around behind his back like spoiled brats! Is that anyway to thank your caretakers?"
May watched Rei hold her hands high at each side of her face, motioning her to calm down. But May refused to do so.

"Oh, I'm sure you mean our prison guards…" She answered no longer trying to withhold her tongue.

Reia looked panicked and Lynxaris stood clutching his cane with a look of disdain. The look brought sour memories of her mother.

"Disrespectful wretched creature! How dare you defy me with such disregard?" He pointed his cane at her shuddering "No doubt you convinced her to support you in this foolish nonsense!"

"I am not a child Lynxaris and Rei isn't either!" She pointed a finger at him "You want to know the truth? Yes. We did go out! We just went a few times to buy things. Girls do that! Besides nobody saw us! That scent must be from people who ran into us…" Maryam explained defensively.

"You will listen to reason even if I have to flock you until you´re motionless! Do not stray from the rules of this house young spitfire or I will break your will to stand on your own feet! If I sense a stranger or suspect something in my next visit you will suffer the consequences!" He moved close and suddenly Rei stood between them. Rei pushed Lynxaris slightly and held her hand firmly.

May shot him a menacing stare.

"So… Not an ounce of guilt or repentance. I warn you May… If you break the rules again, I will have no choice but to separate you! I'll take your sister with me and you will never see her again until I say so!" He threatened with a scornful tone.

"Over my dead body, you old geezer! You so much as try and I'll make you regret it! Panthro would never agree to that! I don't think Jagnar would either…" She assured him out of breath.

"Jagnar will do what is needed to preserve his status and his oath. Even if it means listening to me…" He raised a brow.

"Is that so?" Jagnar's voice echoed in the room. Apparently Lynxaris had been too distracted to notice. He didn't expect Jagnar to appear so stealthily. His face was stern and his lips were sealed tightly. Lynxaris extended his arms in welcome and practically reveled at his appearance. Maryam couldn't help shudder; the urge to strangle Lynxaris was too strong. She wouldn't allow anyone to treat her this way, or take Rei away from her. The old man had every right to be angry. But his threats and temperament were excessive. Something was a little odd in his changed demeanor.

May observed Jagnar close the door and stand his ground without taking a footstep towards his grandfather. Things were going to go downhill from this point and there was no way to mend it.

This is going to be interesting…

"Jagnar my boy! How lovely of you to join us… And so early!" Lynxaris spoke playfully.

"Why are you here without warning me of your arrival?" Jagnar uttered in a low tone. His eyes were cold and unyielding.

"I didn't think I required your permission to see them. Oh… Forgive this poor old man for intruding in your duties, you seem to perform so well in my absence! After all they are your responsibility…"

"Is there something you wish to tell me outlander? If so, speak clearly. If not, leave at once!" Jagnar narrowed his eyes and held his fist at his sides. May could feel Reia's shallow breaths as she witnessed the stressful scene. Jagnar looked really pissed just like the very first day they'd met him.

"Don't look at me that way! I am still your grandfather Jagnar! And as an elder you will show respect!" Lynxaris stomped his cane on the floor in rage.

May snickered at the scene and realized she wasn't the only one who could make Lynxaris lose his cool. Still, this situation was really bad. But she couldn't help feel liberated seeing Jagnar's anger at Lynxaris.

"You deserve none… Not from me or my people!" Jagnar stated raising his chin.

"Your people? So we're back to politics now… You are a fool Jagnar! A fool who doesn't even realize his charges have betrayed him!"

Jagnar's eyes widened and he breathed heavily.

He wasn't expecting that, she realized and remained silent. Maintaining her attention on them. Rei was at her side looking at the ground absently while Jagnar looked at them and returned his stare to Lynxaris.

After a moment he spoke.

"That does not give you the right to threaten them or instruct them with fear… I am responsible for them! Not you or anyone else for that matter."

"They deserve to be taught a lesson for their disobedience… If you won't assume the task appropriately, then I will take them under my wing and force them to understand boundaries!" He threatened pointing his cane at his face. Jagnar's ears flattened with a killing stare.

"They are not objects or treasures to add to your findings! They don't belong to you!" Jagnar yelled and paced towards them. May was stunned at his words.

What did he mean by that?

As he stepped closer to them he towered over his grandfather with a look of disgust on his features. His long hand pushed Lynxaris away. Forcing him to distance himself.

"How dare you treat me that way!" he retorted angrily.

"Leave! You have no further business here" He hissed "I won't be your puppet…I forbid you to come here… You come close to them or utter a word and I will request they banish you for good!"

Way to go Jagnar!

And although May was stunned, she couldn't help wonder why he was defending them. Maybe he was insulted by the last words he overheard Lynxaris say. Maybe he did care for them. Nevertheless, some of the things Jagnar said disturbed her.

"I too share the burden of caring for them Jagnar! You can't object to that! This is no longer a temporary affair!"

Maryam frowned confused.

"It stopped being your responsibility since the day you brought them to our city and placed them under my care! I will request father's presence if need be! You hold no rights here anymore!" Jagnar howled and shielded them with his body. She could only see his back.

"You haven't told them, have you? You didn't have a chance. Failing yet again grandson, how amusing" Lynxaris chuckled.

"Tell us what?" Maryam asked anxiously. She had an awful feeling something was very wrong.

Jagnar twisted his head to look over his shoulder. His brow furrowed and he returned his stare to Lynxaris.

"I forbid you to ever return! You are nothing to me or my family. An outlander you are and you will remain so!"

"Now that Panthro is deceased, we will see about that!" Lynxaris replied with a wide smile.

Maryam's felt her tongue grow numb. Her eyes hurt like someone had scratched them and all hell broke loose inside. Pain and anger mixed together in a storm of emotions.

"No, no…It can't be! You´re lying! It can't be…" She yelled choking at the last words.

"If you don't believe me… Then ask him yourself!" Lynxaris shook his head from side to side and turned around heading to the door.

May trembled violently and forced herself to speak.

"He's lying isn't he Jagnar?" He was silent "Say something God dammit! Tell me he's lying just to scare us!"

His silence chilled her bones. She felt like she wanted to break things, scream and cry all at once.

"It is… True." Jagnar admitted in a low mournful tone.

She trembled again and Reia reached out for her. But it was too painful to bear. She didn't want to see Rei's face. Or any of their faces. It would only mean his death was real, and she couldn't accept that. Her world was crumbling and she just wanted to run far away from everything that hurt. All of it! Will all the hardships and pain away. Her feet moved on their own, and she ran to the stairs feeling asphyxiated. The walls were closing around crushing her heart into pieces.

"I'll take my leave then… But I'll be back, you'll see. In the meantime, I wish you good luck grandson."

Those were the last words May heard Lynxaris say as she went up the stairs.

May slipped from Rei's hands and stood there petrified.

Panthro's dead?

She quivered and stared at Jagnar back in disbelief. It was all such a huge mess already, that she sighed heavily trying to order her thoughts.

Lynxaris took a few steps closer to the door.

"I'll take my leave then… But I'll be back, you'll see. In the meantime, I wish you good luck grandson." His words echoed and the door closed behind him.

Everything had turned out so badly! Lynxaris discovering their betrayal, his anger, the weight of Jagnar's disappointment. And most importantly, Panthro's death. It all went tumbling down in a blink of an eye. She placed a hand on her chest letting the events sink in. She never expected Lynxaris to act so coldly, so inconsiderate and tactless towards them. He had a right to be angry and scold them, but not this way. Rejoicing in May's pain and showing Jagnar's failure like a trophy.

I never saw that coming

She winced when she recalled his words. His stare had changed so crudely. His threats lashing at her heart leaving deep wounds. Declaring he would separate them as if he had a right over their fate. Had he changed or had he always been this way? How couldn't she have seen it? It hurt her. And it bothered her even more knowing he had hurt May without an ounce of guilt in his voice.

Why?

And now their only hope, their friend, was gone.

What would they do without him? Surely May would resolve that there was no purpose in staying except for Jaga's council. But what would happen after that? She had so many questions and it was hard to think logically. She too was feeling the loss. A deep fear burning in her chest that she couldn't control. So many months expecting his return, giving them hope. Now they were truly alone in their quest.

Her eyes studied Jagnar's back warily. What would Jagnar do now that he knew what they had done?

This is all so wrong!

His shoulders relaxed and he turned around to look at her. His face was no longer stained by anger, it seemed blank, expressionless.

I can't look at him. Please feet move!

But she couldn't, she couldn't hide from his stare although she had a good excuse. May would be distraught and losing her sanity up there. She had to go. But she also had to face Jagnar. She would have to talk to him in case he planned something to punish them. Still he hadn't shown the anger that Lynxaris had. Nor had he ever been violent with them. On the contrary, he had defended them, shielding them with his body. And now that she looked at him carefully his eyes seemed sad. He had bags under his eyes and he just stared as if it were difficult for him to speak. She licked her lips nervously and forced air into her lounges.

I have to know what you're thinking.

He blinked all of a sudden and raised a hand to her cheek. It was warm and unexpected. For a moment everything seemed to fade and that single caress helped calm the waves of pain if only for a little while. But soon his hand fell at his side and he stared at the floor withdrawn in thought.

"Come… Sit with me. There is much to talk about" he said almost in a whisper as he moved to the table.

Reia nodded and followed. Stopping momentarily when she passed beside the stairs to look at them filled with worry. Even so, she forced herself to sit beside Jagnar in defeat. She took a slate of untouched paper and her pen.

Then he spoke softly.

"I came back as soon as I could when I heard the news… It is a sad day for us all." He raised an elegant hand to his forehead as if he were struggling with his thoughts "I meant to tell you. But not this way… I apologize for allowing him to hurt you. I never trusted him, you must know that. But I wasn't expecting him to be so heartless. I guess I was wrong…" his fist clenched " Grune arrived at the city gates today, causing a massive response. The King received him along with Prince Tygra. After Grune was escorted, we were expecting Panthro to be with him. Then we were told of the sad news. Surely they'll hold a celebration and tomorrow the heroe will be mourned. I didn't know Lynxaris would show up. With all the chaos and unruly crowd it was difficult to make my leave."

She blinked in horror.

Grune is back? Claiming Panthro's dead...

The friend who had betrayed him was received with a joyfull crowd, unaware that he might have killed Panthro. The masked traitor would be praised as a champion, a saint, a survivor of war. Her blood boiled at the mere notion. And terror filled her heart.

What should I do? Warn him.

He studied her with curiosity and she immediately reconsidered.

After all this… He won't believe a word I say! But I have to tell May…

She inhaled a sharp breath and closed her eyes for a few seconds, trying to regain composure.

We have to warn Jaga… He's the only one who will listen and has influence.

The question was how and when. She didn't know what Jagnar had in store for them after their betrayal.

Then he stopped to look at her with a sad expression.

"He had no right to say those things. And he certainly has no rights over you. As long as I'm here I won´t allow it. But … I'm very disappointed in you both! How could you?"

Rei hesitated. Her hand shook, but she wrote her answer.

'I'm sorry… We both are, I mean'

She half lied, because she was sure May didn't regret a single thing.

Silence took over while her stare switched from his face to the paper and vice versa.

"You do know that I only meant to protect you. My promise wasn't only to you, but to Panthro as well" he said flatly.

And that hurt her as well.

"I admit I was reluctant and maybe not the best candidate to handle something I didn't understand" he breathed harshly "But I accepted, believing I could trust you to follow orders." he paused "I guess I keep forgetting you're not soldiers. My sister was right…" he suddenly smiled a genuine beautiful smile "Has May always been that way?"

The question and the smile startled her. It took a moment to nod.

He chuckled.

"Still you're as guilty as she is. You do know I can't trust you anymore?" He searched her gaze "Things will change…"

Her breath caught and she tried to steady while she wrote her answer.

'How? What are you going to do?'

He read and raised his head.

"I'm going to seal all the windows and exits. Change the lock and I'll to have Lynxia look after you as much as she can." He broke eye contact and sighed "I'm truly sorry Rei… But you leave me no choice. And I can't risk anything happening to you. Now that…" he returned his stare to her frowning "Panthro´s dead. I'll have to speak with my father on how to address the matter. You are still under our protection even with Panthro gone. And I'm sure he would've wanted for you to live normal lives. After that, will see if I can arrange a meeting with the King. My father will surely help"

'What about Lynxaris?'

She wrote after listening carefully, taking note of his intentions.

"You don't have to worry about him anymore. I knew there was something wrong from the beginning."

'I never asked you this… But why do you hate him so? What happened today?'

Jagnar´s eyes widened when he read her questions. He blinked and spoke seriously.

"No doubt he seemed a kind old man at first. You weren't expecting such an outburst… No doubt he convinced you of his innocence and how he was misjudged by his people. How he was banished without mercy." He stood and paced the room nervously "Don't let his silly stories fool you… He was never a kind man. All his heart holds is resentment. He's poisoned! My father knew it. My grandmother died of sadness because of it. He broke her heart… He broke all our hearts. His resentment towards his own people destroyed whatever kindness he once had." Rei listened carefully amazed at his openness "Yes he was once a formidable general. A beloved husband and good father… But something changed that. I certainly never got to meet the cat. According to my father, when he was young he admired him and dreamed of being like him one day. Until the civil war broke among the animals… Families retreated to their homes, and soldiers fought to maintain peace. There was faith in our King and the Sword of legend. Father said they were crude times. Many lost their homes, families were torn and hunger spread like a plague." He massaged his eyes and Reia listened attentively "The dogs weren't our main concern, but the lizards were relentless… When the war seized and we finally achieved peace, my grandfather returned a changed cat. He had many discussions with my grandmother and fought with the King in every opportunity. Shaming him and accusing him of being the reason why the rebellion began. The King forgave his impertinence because he had served him faithfully for many years. Still, Lynxaris insisted in his accusations and began to seek Jaga's council. He was determined to become a priest and convince Lord Jaga to rebel. Thankfully Jaga refused and denied him the honor" He breathed harshly and she saw his attempts to control his anger "Further on, people began to look at him as a mad cat. Father used to say, that he would seclude himself in his study night after night. He collected objects that were unknown and soon his temper began to grow. There was even talk of him fraternizing with lizards and rebels. Until one day, the King, Claudus's father, had no choice but to banish him. He couldn't risk his people's safety no matter how much it pained him. Since then, my father never saw him… Until Panthro that is"

Reia blinked and absorbed every word. Every gesture he made. There´s always many sides to a story, she mused. But this was more than a revelation. Jagnar was pouring his deepest secrets. The shame that had scarred his family for years. No wonder he was so reluctant to speak to Lynxaris. And suddenly some things made sense. His attitude and all of Lynxaris's lectures.

He approached her slowly and kneeled. His stare unwavering as he waited for her to say something after he had spilled his family secret. She did what she felt her heart wanted. She wanted to comfort him and show him that she understood. Her hands rested on his cheeks hesitantly and he didn't stop her. She closed her eyes and pressed her forehead over his as he sucked a ragged breath.

"I don't deserve your kindness… Your comfort" he whispered and he laced his fingers over one of her hands.

His voice seemed so broken, so torn. But she had to remind herself that she was comforting a friend. No matter how much her heart wanted to reach out to him and hold him close.

Jagnar suddenly lay a hand on her chin and separated putting a short distance.

"Forgive me… From what I'm about to do." He said ever so softly.

Unexpectedly his face drew nearer and his lips sealed whatever protest she was about to have. It was brief and soft. Even strange… Not the way she had imagined it to feel. Her heart remained silent and in shock. Almost as if it hadn't been right. No butterflies fluttering in her stomach and no unsteady heartbeats. And as quickly as he had kissed her, he had left her alone. With an odd feeling and a million thoughts firing at her as if she had done something wrong. Not because he was an alien, she recognized, but because it was an empty kiss. A comforting gesture she had allowed him to savor briefly. She shook her head and stood feeling guilty.

May needs me and I'm having a personal crisis… That's just great! Just what I needed!

She breathed deeply and moved to look for her friend. The one who most needed her right now. There was no time for silly thoughts. She cursed while she headed to the stairs worriedly.