A Woman Scorned

(Whisper)

If I hadn’t seen it with my own eyes I wouldn’t have believed it. I kind of suspected it but I didn’t want to even think she would do that to me. I thought maybe I was just being overly jealous. Turns out my gut feeling was right. There she was with him. In the arms of the Creep. And she was wearing that Vampirela outfit I had bought her for her birthday. I could hear every word they were saying.

“Oh, Dray, I do hope you like your present.”

“It’s perfect. Now we can go make that home movie we talked about.”

“Oh no, deary. We can’t put the evidence on camera. That’s too risky!”

“Oh come on. If that furball hasn’t figured it out yet she’s never going to.”

“Don’t talk about her like that.”

“Where did you tell her you were going this time?”

“Oh the usual. To drop off a bounty, which is what I normally do.”

“And she believes that sh*t?”

“Of course! My Pretty P*ssy trusts me.”

“Ok, then let’s go. I want to put this new camera to good use.”

I watched from the shadows as they left. I slid down the wall to the ground and put my head in my hands. I was heartbroken. After all I’d done for her she does this to me. I wanted to get back at them right away, but revenge is a dish best served cold. I was going to play dumb until the time was right then strike when they least expected it.

As I started returning home, a stray paper floated my way. I would've tossed it out of my path, but I noticed it was a copy of the Bedlama Star. Also, an article had caught my eye. Hmm...what in the galaxy? It seems Limbo is about to add another ally to its list. Thundera?! That's my home world, the one I left so long ago. I didn't want to think about the day it was conquered. But I've heard Thundera was free now and in the command of its rightful ruler, who's coming to Bedlama with a few escorts to discuss the treaty. Hmm, if Lady Lyna is anything like her father (Jaga bless him), she'll want to make sure nothing gets in the way of peace. The ThunderCats were nothing to fool around with, that's for certain. I know; I used to be one of them, until the coup.

On the other hand, Dragor would risk everything for a nice little score. Relations between Plunn-Dar and Thundera were still shaky since the ThunderCats regained control of their world. If Dragor's the loyal mutant patriot I believe him to be, he'll go after Lady Lyna. Perhaps I'll get my revenge sooner than I thought.

(Echo)

I got home around 2 AM. To my surprise, Endora was still up.

"Puss Puss, why are you still up at this late hour?" She started waving some piece of paper in front of me. "What's this, love?" I took it from her and she pointed out a particular article. Queen Lyna was headed for Limbo? Hmmm, interesting. Whisper tapped my shoulder to regain my attention.

[I fixed you some soup. It's on the stove,] she signed.

"Oh, how sweet of you. What kind, deary?"

[Mushroom.]

"Sounds delicious. I'll fix me a nice glass of Sangria to go with it. Care to join me?" She shook her head.

[I already ate. I'm off to bed now. Good night.] She gave me a good night kiss before retiring for the night. I had a good four hours left to kill before changing to Vamp form. After eating I didn't have anything else to do and I didn't feel like watching holovision. I decided to crawl into bed next to my lover to cuddle for a while. She made it clear that she wasn't in the mood. I thought that was odd. We hadn't gotten to spend much time together that day so I'd figured she'd want to cuddle a bit like she usually does. Oh well, our eight year anniversary was coming up soon. We would definitely make time for each other then.

(Lyna)

We were heading for Limbo galaxy in a few minutes. I started to get nervous; I've never handled interplanetary relations before. Well, there was Plunn-Dar, but at least it was in the same galaxy. What if I screw up and start a war? No! I can't afford to fail this, not now! Thundera's just being rebuilt from the revolution, we need this treaty.

"Nervous?" a voice said. I turned around quickly, sword in hand, to the large black panther standing before me.

"Stalker!" I shout. "How many times have I told you not to sneak up on me like that?!"

"Sorry, Your Highness." he replies. "Old habits die hard."

"I'll say."

"You're worried about the treaty, aren't you?"

"Duh! Of course I am. I mean, we just freed Thundera from Gen-Ta. Jaga help us if I screw this up."

"You won't screw up, Lyna. If you can handle a demon priest and his undead army, you can handle this."

"I certainly hope so."

"It's not like you're going alone. Me, Kara, Weasel and the ThunderTwins are serving as escorts."

"And I am so grateful. I'll need all the moral support I can get."

"Besides, I've been meaning to look into this Intergalactic Rainbow Coalition. Supposed to protect the rights of individuals of mixed species." About the only thing Stalker and I had in common was that we were both Thunderians of dual heritage. The difference? His second lineage was mutant. Mine was human.

"I think that's a good idea." I said. "Perhaps I'll look into that as soon as the treaty's signed." At that moment, Kara came to us.

"We're nearly ready." she said. "Better board the Feliner as soon as possible."

"All right." I reply. Stalker and I rushed off and boarded the Feliner. Weasel was waiting for us there.

"Yo, Lady!" he said. "Ready to make history?"

"Weasel, I'm nervous enough as it is."

"Okay..." Kara eventually joined us and sat next to Weasel. Hmm. A Thunderain and a mutant (in Weasel's case, Cyber-Mutant) together. Stalker was proof that such relations exist, but seeing it for myself was more convincing. At the pilot controls were the ThunderTwins, WilyKit and WilyKat.

"All right, people." Kit said. "Just a few standard procedures and we're off."

"Are you sure Tygris can handle things while you're away?" Kat asked me.

"I have complete faith in him." I answer, clutching the Sword of Omens at my side. "If there's something wrong at home, the sword will alert us."

"All right. Everything checks out." Kit said. "We're on our way." Limbo, here we come.

(Damian)

It was a pretty busy night at my hunting supplies store. Dad even stopped by. Trying to see if he could get a discount as usual.

"Dad, you're going to have to wait until the clearance sale like everyone else."

"Aww...but D-boy, it's not for me, it's for your Mum."

"Well, she needs to come buy it herself then. And I won't give her a discount either."

"Son, you are a hard business man."

"Damn straight, Dad."

Before Dad headed back out he picked up my copy of the Bedlama Star off the counter. Apparently something on the front page had caught his eye.

"Whatcha readin', Dad?"

"Did you know about this Damian?" He laid the paper on the counter and pointed to an article.

"Yeah, I read it. What about it?" A low growl rumbled from Dad's throat.

"Son, the last thing we need is that bunch of furballs coming to Limbo. It's bad enough your Mum is involved with one. The only thing good about her is her awesome hooters."

"Dad!"

"You know I'm right."

"Dad, Mama Kitty's done a lot for me. If it wasn't for her I wouldn't have been able to open this store."

"Yeah, well I don't trust her. I mean now that Lady Lyna's coming here what's to keep her from getting all patriotic and stuff. That could mean trouble for us Mutants."

"Mama Kitty wouldn't do that, Dad."

"Oh yeah? We'll just have to see then. Until then, I suggest you and every other Mutant living in Limbo watch their back."

With that, Dad crumpled up the paper and tossed it in the trash. As he left I thought about what he said. I just couldn't see Mama Kitty turning on those she loves.

The Ducal Palace, Huntington, New Eden

(Phantom)

I was standing by the office window, looking out over the courtyard below. My mind was elsewhere at the moment, so my visitor had to clear his throat to get my attention.

"Hmm?" I turned around at the sound and came to attention when I saw who it was. "Oh, My lord. I didn't realize you were coming. I would have had a reception waiting for you." I came around the other side of the desk and bowed before the man.

Laughing, he waved a hand to dismiss things. "Honestly Zan, if I wanted a big to-do about us coming here I would have told the PR people. Mind?" he asked indicating a chair in front of the desk.

"By all means" I replied, perching on the edge of the desk. "So what favors are you going to ask of me Stefen? And where's the rest of the group?"

"Well, Kat and Stef managed to corner your friend and, I believe, are grilling her about her life as a SilverHawk."

I winced slightly. Emily was healing finally, but there were still things too tender to deal with at the moment. I just hope the kids don't ask the wrong thing of her. He saw me wince and just smiled.

"They know not to pry into anything sensitive, like why she's here and not back in Limbo working. Marcus is down at the stables looking over your newest foals. I think he's got an eye on one from your Black-Heart Stallions line. And Makala is.." the door opened behind him.

"I'm right here Dad, Aunt Zan." Said the young lady as she entered.

"Kala, it's good to see you again. How's things going?" I ask standing and giving her a hug when she was close.

"Great! Schools a bit slow, but other then that, everything's great. Teka had her kittens last week. Four, can you believe it?" She said with a grin as she sat down in the chair next to her father.

"That's good to hear. I may ask for one once it's old enough to be on it's own." I replied. "Now, can we get down to business? I know the pair of you are going to ask me something so are in the process of softening me up." I said with a chuckle.

"Aww, Aunt Zan, how could you say that?" Makala asked with a gleam in her eye.

"Because I know you. And you know that unless it is something I am completely uncomfortable with, I won't refuse you." I State.

Stefan just laughed at the mock pouting look on his daughters face. "She has us there. Alright, here's the question. Will you represent New Eden at the Peace Treaty Conference in Limbo? Marcus will be there also. There's a chance that New Eden will be offered the Peace Treaty also."

I was dumb founded to say the least. I know I had been out of touch with things the last month or two, but this was a bit much. "That will mean I have to go in full regalia doesn't it?"

"Afraid so. With all the bells, whistles, and pretty baubles we've given you over time." He said.

"I don't know…."

"Please Aunt Zan?"

Damn, she was just like her mother when she asked that way. With a sigh, I stood and paced the room a few before sitting down in my chair behind the desk. "Anything I should be looking for if a treaty is offered?"

"We have a list already prepared, and the Queen Katrina is being prepped for the trip as we speak."

I gave him a look. "You were sure of yourselves weren't you?"

They both just smiled at me. "Besides, I think your Sister is ready to return home." Commented Stefan.

He was right. Emily had been wanting to return home now for the last week or so. She hadn't said anything, but she didn't need to. I just knew.

(Rakuna)

I read the paper again and again. Those ThunderCats were coming to Limbo?! Damn it, they couldn't have come at a worse time. Tomorrow, I bring Pterra in for a special operation that will remove her implants and make her a normal mutant again. Ever since the final battle on Thundera, we've suffered greatly. Well, all of us except for that teddy bear Ursor. Cowardly bastard managed to run before Gen-Ta's base fully exploded. I still remember Pterra calling for help because she couldn't fly away due to the injury she received from their half-breed leader. I tried to help her, but I got knocked away, and the three of us suffered. Four if you count that traitor Weasel. Mammoth was dead, for one thing. Not that I miss the dumb brute. Pterra got knocked into a coma and put in cryogenic suspension. Took me forever to steal her out of Cats' Lair. Weasel and me, well...let's just say the operation Pterra's going for won't help us. The bloody blast completely fried our implants directly into our nervous systems. Any attempt to remove them will have...fatal results. I was surprised at Weasel's result because he was closer to the explosion than I was. Then again, his implants weren't as extensive as the rest of us. Probably because he did his own work, which is my fault. I launched the poisoned dart that caused him to go for the implants in the first place. Then again, if he hadn't gotten in the way of that femme brute I was aiming for, he wouldn't have gotten hurt. But if Ursor hadn't destroyed the only cure for that poison...so many possibilities, so little time. I just have to hope the ThunderCats don't suspect anything until the operation's complete. It took all of my hacking skills (and the occasional breaking and entering) to acquire enough currency for the operation and settle comfortably in a distant colony. I would've settled here with Pterra except for one thing.

A few months after my arrival, I learned Dragor was here. Lousy saurian pervert. He's the reason why Pterra's the way she is. If he hadn't hurt her, I would've never brought her to that orphanage, she never would've met Ursor, never would've gotten those implants and never got into this mess in the first place! I left my cave to collect my thoughts when I ran into a small orc-like being.

"Hello, Rakuna." he said. "It's been a long time."

What in the name of Ratilla? I examined the being. "Mack?" I asked. "Mack, old bean, is that you?"

"It's me, kid."

"I thought you were dead! When the authorities came--"

"No, no. I'm only dead if I return to Plunn-Dar. I've been in this galaxy for years."

"But...how did you find me?"

"I noticed a few...unknown withdrawals on Dolar. Knew it was your old style and tracked down whatever trail you left. I know I taught you better than that."

"I went into random accounts so no one would notice."

"Good job, kid. So, what brings you to Limbo? I heard you've been in some trouble."

"Mack, you have no idea." I explained what happened since he left. He listened to every word I said. Good ol' Mack. Raised me on Plunn-Dar, he did. Along with several other illegits, which was against the law. Illegits were normally criminals on the streets, and those were the lucky ones. Don't ask about the ones 'being helped by the good Plunn-Darian government'.

"So," Mack said. "Your friend's in trouble again. This time it's serious."

"That's about it. Mack, I need this operation for her. It's the only way she'll wake up. But then I read the paper about the treaty."

"Don't worry about the ThunderCats, Rakuna. They may be pains in the butts, but they have their Code."

"I know, Mack, but then I learned Dragor was here and--"

"Dragor? You know him?"

"He's the bloody bastard I told you about when I first brought Pterra." I noticed Mack had a worried expression on his face.

"I'll take care of Dragor," he said. "You just look after your friend."

"You've seen him?"

"Long story, no time to tell it. Let's just say you weren't the only one to get into trouble around here."

"Mack, I know it's been a while, but you won't tell anyone about..."

"As far as I'm concerned, I haven't seen you." Mack gave me a reassuring smile, then left. Good ol' Mack. Always there for you to the end. That's what I liked about him.

(Hardware)

I left Rakuna's cave quickly, mainly so Mon*Star doesn't sent a Sky Shadow after me. Poor kid's been in enough trouble without mine adding to the mix. I had to admit, I was surprised that the ThunderCats were coming to Limbo, and even more surprised that Rakuna's been here for a while. I know he'll do anything to help his friend. Ever since my exile, I've worried about my wards on Plunn-Dar, especially him and one other orphan. As I drove the Zoomer into Legitimate Space, I noticed a flashing purple object coming my way. Damnit, it's Dragor on that blasted Nebula Burner of his.

"Yo, comrade!" he calls as he pulls over. "You hear about the 'Cats coming to town?"

"Who hasn't?" I reply. Unlike most mutants, I don't mind Thunderians, not even ThunderCats. But I was smart to keep it to myself. "You going to try anything on their females, flame breath?"

"I might, especially that half-breed Queen of theirs."

"I thought you weren't prejudiced. It was supposed to limit your creativity."

"Who said I was prejudiced on Thunderians? It's the ThunderCats I can't stand. Doesn't stop me from tasting, though. Care to join me?"

"You know my answer, Dragor."

"Aw...still too wimpy to cop a feel? You're no fun, Hardware. Never was, never will be."

"If having fun means submitting to your level of sanity, then I'll be serious."

"Your loss."

(Whisper)

Preparing for my revenge was turning out to be a little difficult. I didn't know much about Saurians. I did know that it's near impossible to wound them. Liza had told me someone had actually managed to burn Dragor but he wouldn't tell her who. So far I didn't know of any weaknesses so I decided to do a little research on Saurian anatomy. During the daylight hours Eliza is pretty much knocked out. I used that time to do my research undisturbed. It seemed like hours before I finally made a breakthrough. Turns out Saurians have a small weak spot between their wings and only when they are unfurled. Looks like I'll be putting my snipers skills to good use...but the timing had to be just right.

Before heading out to the shooting range, I got a prompt that I had a personal COM message. It was from Zan. She was back in town. I asked her how Emily was doing. I felt really bad about what that monster did to her. Besides, Zan is a friend of mine and I didn't like anyone hurting someone close to her. But I wasn't worried. Dragor was going to get his soon. I was going make sure of it.

(Phantom)

When we had arrived in Limbo I had contacted Whisper and let her know we were back. She had asked how Emily was doing. I told her that there were still wounds that needed healing but other wise she was doing a lot better then she had been when we left.

Standing in front of the mirror, I kept adjusting and readjusting the sash I was wearing. With a frown and a heaved sigh I threw my hands up. "I give up on this thing. Don't know why I have to wear it in the first place. Not like anyone will know the meaning to half of what I've got already."

Laughter from the woman stretched out on the bed greeted my words. "You just hate being the center of attention." She said.

"Damn straight I hate it." I mutter as I turn about. "You Emily, are getting out of this easy, you know that?"

"Yep. I do." She replied.

"Grrrr" was the only sound I made as I stalked over and grabbed one of the pillows and swatted her with it.

She fended it off with a hand, still laughing. "Come on, you look great."

"If you say so." I went back to the mirror and looked at my reflection. I was dressed in the official colors of my Fiefdom. Deep burgundy long sleeved shirt with a high collar and hunter green leather pants. I had knee high black riding boots with silver work on also. Crossing over from my right shoulder to my left hip was a silver-blue and white sash that said I was in the service of the Royal Family. "I still hate having to dress up for occasions. But at least I'm wearing a 'Working' outfit. Not one of the dresses." Dangling from a ribbon about my neck was the Star Cross of New Eden. It was the highest award there was and I was one of seven people to have been awarded with it. And that meant that I had to wear it whenever I was being official. To top off the outfit, was a floor length gray cape with my Ducal seal emblazoned on the back.

"True." She smiled remembering some of the grand balls we attended during our stay.

"Hey, any time you wish to return, we can. And if you want to retire out and make New Eden your home, I'll stand by your side all the way."

Emily regarded Zan's last statement carefully, and shook her head. "I'm still a Hawk, and I think I will be more many years yet. But when that time comes, I'll definitely consider New Eden for my retirement. It's appropriately named."

she smiled, and regarded Phantom's outfit for another moment, then gracefully got up, went over to Phantom, and twitched the sash into proper position for her.

Emily was also dressed in hunter green and burgundy, as a member of Zan's household. Slight flashes of silver showed in embroidered holes in her tailored outfit. Very few here would know that those holes were over Emily's internal lasers. Her red gold hair was loose, flowing down to the middle of her back; she hadn't cut it since that first trip to Zan's place. The only noticeable weapon she wore was a small, heavily ornamented knife. most would have thought it decorative, or perhaps an eating knife, but Emily knew better, so did Zan. With Zan being official, she could not carry noticeable weaponry, although Emily knew of a few secret items. so Emily would be bodyguard, goodness knows she was equipped for it. No one would gainsay her right to protect Zan, either.

"There," she said, grinning, "you're all pretty now. Ready to go?"

(Echo)

One night, after dropping off a bounty, I managed to slip away to go see Dray. He didn't seem to be in a good mood and he seemed distracted.

"What's the matter, lover?" I laid my head on his chest and kissed his shoulder.

"Ah, nothin'." He started to cough to the point I thought he might be choking.

"Dray, are you all right?"

"I'm fine. Thought I had a furball." I popped him on his nose.

"That's not funny, Dray. I'm assuming you know about the ThunderCats coming to Limbo to discuss that treaty."

"Of course."

"You don't plan to do anything horrid, do you? You're in enough trouble already because of what you did to that SilverHawk. I think you take a lot of risks going within the Limit."

"You worry too much, baby. You've been that way ever since D-boy was born."

"I have every reason to worry..."

"Don't worry about me, Liza. I can take care of myself...and you. Now go get me a , woman!"

I sucked my teeth and rolled my eyes. Dray can be so silly at times. Usually at the wrong ones.

(Lyna)

Well, so far so good. We made it to Limbo space without a scratch. I think this treaty's about the easiest thing I'm ever going to do. To think I was getting worried. I looked at Kara, who was on her laptop as usual.

"What the--" she starts.

"What is it?" I ask. She showed us a message she just received. "'Beware the Saurian Casanova'?" I read. "What does that mean?"

"I've heard of him." Stalker said. "He's supposed to be some kind of serial rapist. Real notorious for the worst sex crimes in this galaxy."

"Is this some sort of trick of his?"

"No. I seriously doubt that's his style. He usually strikes hard and fast. No warning."

"Kara, can you trace that message?"

"I'm trying, Lyna." she replies. "Blast it! I can't get it. Whoever sent that message is either real good or someplace distant and full of interference."

"I'm going with the latter." Weasel comments. "No one's as good with this stuff as you, Kara. 'Cept me, that is."

"Watch it, Weasel..." She gives off a mock glare. As the couple exchanged some playful insults, the sword began to glow.

"Heads up, 'Cats!" I call. "We got trouble!" I lift the sword to my vision. "Sword of Omens, give me sight beyond sight." I saw a small group planning to head towards us. One of them--the leader, I believe--was riding some armored squid. They were a good distance from us, so I figured we had the advantage. "Get ready for a rumble, people." I said as I lower the sword from my face. "We're about to have company."

(Whisper)

I hoped that Lady Lyna had gotten my message about Dragor in time. In the meantime, I had been trailing him. Yesman had told me that the Mob planned on attacking the ThunderCat flag ship. Well, someone had to put a monkey wrench in their plans. I sure hoped they would enjoy the space mines I put in their path. I quickly typed up an emergency transmission to the ThunderCat ship.

[Warning! Mines ahead! Reverse thrust and reroute course through sector 7!] I included the ThunderCats insignia in my message. It was obvious that they had received my message because they followed my instructions. At the same time, the Mob ran right into the space mines., which appeared to be harmless rock fragments to the naked eye. In the midst of the confusion, I took a shot at Dragor. Damn! He turned just as I had made the shot and it hit his arm instead! I hid behind the outcropping to avoid being seen. My mines had slowed the Mob down, but they didn't stop them. They continued their assault on the ThunderCats. I prayed to Jaga that I had given my countrymen a chance to prepare their defense.

(Lyna)

"Oh, man!" Weasel cried. "What are we going to do?"

"Calm down." I reply. "Kit, Kat, send a distress call on all frequencies."

"And them?" Stalker asked, referring to our pursuers.

"Those mines bought us some time. If I could just get a shot with the sword--"

"Lyna, you can't! You're the last of the Royal Family! Jaga help us all if you're lost!"

"That didn't stop me in the final battle against Gen-Ta, and it won't stop me now."

"Lyna, don't. Please, I'm begging you."

"I think I just spotted the Saurian Casanova." Kara said. We looked at the viewscreen which showed a large purple dragon-like being. Weasel started to get nervous.

"It can't be." he simply whispered.

"Weasel, what is it?" I asked. No response. "Weasel, answer me!"

"I...I know him. From Plunn-Dar."

"You know the Saurian Casanova?" Stalker asked.

"His real name's Dragor Wyvern. Met him once, a long time ago. It's a long story, no time to tell it!"

"Got that right." I commented. A fireball barely missed us. "What was that?!"

"Dragons! Once they have an adequate fill of limestone in their diet, they can launch fireballs for quite sometime."

"Charming." Just when I thought things were getting easier.

(Phantom)

Emily had just finished straightening my sash when the com chimed. It was Captain Val' Kirin. "Your Grace, we've just received a wide range distress call. It originates from the Thunderian Ship. Shall we respond?"

Since I was technically in charge of this mission it was my call.

"Affirmative. I'll be on the bridge in minute." I looked at Emily then sighed. "Just like old times it seems" With that I was out the door and rushing down the corridor to the Bridge lift.

The Battle sirens were wailing away, pilots were scrambling for their ships. By the time I reached the bridge, all were ready to launch. The Captain turned to nod to me as I took my seat above and behind him.

I settled myself in the chair. "Cut the alarms Please Captain and give me a hailing frequency."

The orders were passed and the alarms silenced. I pressed a button on the arm of my chair and the repeater displays swung up into position. I hit the com and the screen came to life.

"Thunderian Ship, this is Duchess Vernadeua of the New Eden Battle Cruiser Queen Katrina. We are responding to your call. Fighter Squadrons are being launched at this time to aid you. Over and Out." I cut the com then. Looking at the Captain, I nodded. "The Bridge is yours Captain. Keep our boys and girls safe and bring them back."

"Aye your Grace." He turned around to the bridge crew. "You heard her, lets get it on!"

I glanced up at Heart, who was standing to the side of my chair. She gave me a confident smile and patted my shoulder. I reached up and covered her hand with mine, accepting that confidence. Then I turned to face the screens and all the Status reports that were being relayed in from the pilots. And I silently prayed all would return safe.

Heart's mind raced, considering possibilities, and filing the more likely ones away to consider appropriate actions. She smiled wryly to herself. Guess she really was still a Silverhawk, despite the traumas of the past several months. She felt more alive now than she had for many days. She leaned over to Phantom. "If it looks like it will do any good, let me armor up and play bait. It'll get their attention long enough for the Captain to take action, and you know how fast I can fly" She grinned.

Chuckling at her eagerness. "I know. But would you be disappointed by much if I asked you to stay here? No one knows your returning. I'd like to keep at least a few secrets to spring on people. Besides if you did that, that would mean you got away with getting out of the outfit while I'm still stuck in mine."

(Whisper)

What's this? Someone had come to help the ThunderCats! But I didn't recognize the ships. The Mob was obviously outnumbered and out gunned by the newcomers. For a while the Mob made a sorry attempt to battle them, but they ended up turning tail and heading back to Brim*Star. Oh well. I'll just have to take Dragor out another day. In the meantime I sent a message asking for permission to come aboard the ThunderCat's ship.

(Lyna)

Another message from our mysterious savior. Permission to board the ship, huh? Well...I had some good feelings about this one. There were even coordinates when we can find whoever's been helping us. I had the Twins bring us to a nearby asteroid, where we saw our potential friend. What in the name of Jaga...

"Endora?" I said. She simply bowed before me, rose and then nodded.

[You've grown into quite a young woman, Your Highness.] she signed. [It truly has been a long time.] Oh, that's right. Endora was mute from a surgery years ago. Kara and the Twins were just as shocked as I was. Weasel and Stalker didn't have a clue.

"Eh, not to be nosey or anything," Weasel began. "But you know this chick?"

"Her name is Endora." I explained. "She's one of us."

"A ThunderCat?" Stalker pondered. "I thought Gen-Ta destroyed them all."

"So did I." Kara replied.

[Gen-Ta thought I could be a potential convert.] Endora explained. [He offered to restore my voice to me if I joined him. I refused, and he made me watch all of the others killed. But he spared my life, because he thought...I was pretty, and he made me his personal slave.]

"By Jaga..." Kara whispered.

"You knew?" I asked her.

"Linxanna told me Endora was enslaved with the other Thunderians, but she left out a few...details. She said that Endora had been killed in defying Gen-Ta."

[I managed to escape.] she explained. [It was very difficult, but somehow, I was able to leave Thundera. I made my way towards this galaxy, where I stayed hidden.]

"But the revolution..." I started.

[I thought it was a trick of Gen-Ta's to lure me back to Thundera. Plus, I was ashamed of what he did to me. I couldn't put that on the ThunderCat name.]

"And when you learned it was true?"

[I still couldn't muster the courage to face you or the other ThunderCats. I thought it was best that I denounced my title and remained in Limbo.]

"You shouldn't be ashamed of something that isn't your fault, Endora. No one would blame you for what happened."

[Our Code calls for Truth, Justice, Honor and Loyalty. I showed none of these during the conquest. I am a failure.]

"It was you, wasn't it? Who sent those messages about those pursuers."

[Yes, Your Highness.]

"We got your message about Dragor."

[He's the one to really look out for. He's defiled many a body. One of his victims was also killed.]

"Sounds like it's personal."

[He's hurt someone very close to me. When I heard that the Mob was going to attack you, I tried to take him out.]

"So that was the infamous Mob of Limbo. Hmm, didn't look like much."

[Don't underestimate them. They're not Gen-Ta, but they can do serious damage.]

"There's so much I want to know about your life here. Will you join us?"

[I would be honored, Lady Lyna.] As Endora boarded the ship, Stalker gave me a strange look. Seems he still doesn't understand what's going on.

"Endora used to take care of me and other children back on Thundera." I explained. "Saved Snarf quite a lot of headaches."

(Dragor)

Someone was trying to take me out. I felt it in my gut. I took up the rear in the battle so I knew it couldn't have been friendly fire. No one in the Mob has aim that bad, not even Glycerin. I got hit on the arm from behind. Whoever shot me must have also been the one who set those space mines out there. Someone was out to get me but I didn't have a clue who it was.

(Phantom)

After the Mob retreated, Capt. Val'Kirin called back the squads. Nodding to the Com officer he faced the screen again. "Thunderian Ship, It was a pleasure to aide you. I look forward to meeting everyone on Bedlama. Captain Val'Kirin out"

He turned towards the ladies behind him. "Your Grace, Miss Heart, Looks like things have settled for now. Shall we continue on at our original speed?"

"By all means Captain. The bridge is yours" Zan said as she stood up and nodded to him. As she and Emily headed for the Lift, the doors opened and there stood Prince Marcus.

"Your Highness" Zan said with a bow.

"I missed the excitement didn't I?" he asked.

"I'm afraid so" She replied.

"Darn it! I always miss the good stuff." He crossed his arms over his chest and sighed.

Both her and Emily laughed.

"Don't worry, We'll tell you all about it Your Highness" Emily said.

"Promise Aunt Em?" He asked looking at her.

"We Promise" Zan said as she lead the way back into the lift.

(Whisper)

During the rest of the ThuderCats' trip to Bedlama, I sat down to talk with Queen Lyna.

"So tell me what's happened since you left Thundera, Endora."

[For starters, I'm known as Whisper in this area. I lived on Fense when I first arrived here. For a while I ran an orphanage but we ran out of funds and we had to shut down.]

"Oh, how sad. What happened to all the children?"

[I did all I could for them, but most of them ended up running the streets to survive. After that I got a job as a waitress at a night club called Lady's Choice. I worked there until I met Eliza.] I paused when I started to feel a pain in my heart. I still hadn't gotten over seeing her with Dragor that night.

"Endora are you all right?" I tried to think of how to respond to her, but I burst into tears instead.

"Eliza is the friend Dragor hurt, isn't she?" I dried my tears and nodded.

[She was looking for a live-in babysitter for the child he gave her.] I signed. [Miserable bastard manipulated her into thinking he loves her. It's terrible.]

"By Jaga...what does your friend do?"

[Bounty hunter. I've been doing the same thing since Damian grew up.]

"Whoa!" the mutant cried. He was a strange-looking fellow with a few cybernetic implants. "Dragor has a son?!"

[You know sign language?] I asked.

"I grew up knowing it. My mom works with mutant children back home and there were a few who are deaf or mute." He extended his hand out to me. "The name's Weasel. Nice to meet ya." We shook hands. "So...Dragor has a son. Interesting."

[With the exception of looks, Damian is nothing like his father.]

"That's good to hear. How old is he now?"

[About a few years younger than Lady Lyna, I believe.]

"Weasel," Kit started. "You never did fully explain how you know Dragor."

"It's...complicated." he answered.

"Does this have to do with certain friends of yours?" Lyna asked.

"I...I promised Rakuna I wouldn't tell a soul. I'm sorry, but..."

"I understand. I shouldn't have pushed."

"Eh, it's okay."

"We're approaching Bedlama now." Kat announced. I looked out the window to see the planet.

"Won't you join us, Endora?" Lyna asked. "It would be great if you could stay for the treaty."

[There are a few dangers here, Your Highness.] I explained. [I may as well make certain you stay out of trouble. Just like old times.] It was then I noticed something around her neck. It was a loyalty necklace. I looked at her, and at the black panther male sitting next to her.

"Oh, I nearly forgot!" Lyna cried. "Endora, this is Stalker. My Consort-to-be."

"Hello." Stalker greeted. Hmm...a bit to muscular and huge to be a panther. "It's real nice to meet you, Endora."

I turned to Stalker. [Break her heart, and I'll break your hip.]

"Sorry, I don't know sign." Stalker replied. Lyna shook her head and repeated what I had signed. "Okay..."

[I assume he's a hybrid, like you?] I asked.

Lyna nodded. [Sort of.] she signed back. [He's half mutant.]

[I see...]

(Echo)

I got a surprise visit from Dragor one evening. He was looking pissed off and acting kind of edgy.

"What's wrong with you, Dray?"

"Someone's trying to take me out."

"So what else is new."

"No, baby, I'm serious. Someone shot me in the arm when we were attacking the ThunderCat ship."

"Attacking the ThunderCats? Why...?"

"Mon*Star's orders, my idea."

"But..."

"Where's that hairball girlfriend of yours?"

"I haven't seen her since right before dawn. And don't call her that."

"Hmmm...what a coincidence."

"Dray, are you trying to say that Whisper shot you? Why would she want to do that?"

"Cuz she hates my guts."

"Whisper has hated your guts for years. If she wanted to shoot you she would have done it long ago."

"Yeah...I guess your right. But I still don't trust her. Never did. She's too quiet."

"Well she can't help that. She's mute."

"No, that's not it. She's...sneaky."

"She is not! Endora is sweet and thoughtful! She's far from sneaky!"

"She's only that way when you're in the room. Remember that one time I told you she tried to jab me in the eye with one of her claws?"

"That's because you were teasing her."

"I didn't say a damned word to her! Anyway, I want you to keep an eye on the bitch. She's up to something."

"Dray, I'm not..."

"You know Liza, she might know about the two of us."

"What? But that's impossible! No one knows about that except for the two of us and I know I didn't tell her."

"Just watch her, baby. I know I will be."

I thought about what my lover said. Could it have been possible for Whisper to know what we had been doing behind her back? If so, who could have told her?

(Hotwing)

It had taken months, but I finally did it. I acquired the final ingredient to my potion, and ultimately Dragor's doom. A drop of virgin's blood. I placed the blood in a bowl with one of the bastard's scales, which was found after he attacked Emmy. I used a mortar to ground up the scale, making certain the blood mixed in with the purple dust. Once that had happened, I placed the two ingredients in a cauldron filled with other ingredients, heated by my own flame. If all goes well, that saurian pervert will learn his lesson, big time. I know he'll get the death penalty for some of his past crimes, but it won't be enough for him to die. No...he had to suffer for what he did, and I was going to make sure he does so, no matter what the cost. As soon as everything was mixed, I began to chant.

Fires of vengeance burn bright,
Let my pleas for retribution take flight.
He who has defiled my love, beware
For I shall handle your punishment with care.
As her nightmares drive her insane,
So shall you live out her pain.
Each night pass, your attack begins,
But here, you will pay for your sins.
So many victims, so little time,
When I am through, revenge will be mine.
Before your death, I end your blight,
This I swear upon this night!

The potion burns and glows. I'm taking a great risk brewing this, but I could think of no better retaliation. Once I get this into Dragor's system, he'll have a lot of trouble sleeping.

"Leo?" A knock at my door. I hide my potion, my key to revenge. The door opens; it's only Sapphire.

"Leo, what are you doing?" she asks.

"Oh, nothing." I lie. "Just thinking."

"Well, I got good news. There's a ship from New Eden docking, and there's someone I think you'll want to see."

(Phantom)

I had sent ahead a short message that I was back in town and Em was with me. I told them I was getting the New Eden delegation to loan me a transport to visit Hawk Haven. I didn't tell anyone anything else. But since I was part of the delegation it meant I had to have an escort and couldn't pilot on my own. Protocols are a pain in the rear.

Thankfully I had convinced Marcus that I would see what I could do to introduce him to the various Hawks later on.

The transport had the Royal crest emblazoned along the side. A Star Cross and Crown. It landed smoothly and a moment later one of the pair of armed escorts was at the hatch and opening it. I glanced at Em and gave her a thumbs up and a soft chuckle. Both of which she returned.

Getting up from the seat I sigh and smooth out my shirt then run a hand though my hair. Thank the gods I didn't have to wear either a crown or a tiara. Though I did have a strand of silver, with a black opal and onyx teardrop hanging from the center of it, braided into my hair so it would cross my forehead.

Moving towards the now open Hatch I nodded to the escort and stepped out of the hatch. When I looked about the other escort was at the foot of the stairs. Then I noticed that just about ever Hawk that could make it down to the hanger was there. Their expressions ranged from stunned to surprised to unreadable. I descended to the bottom and turned to motion to Emily to join me.

Emily nervously wiped her hands on her pants. She could see from here that all the Hawks were there, and all were surprised to see Zan. She took a deep breath, and nodding at the escort, she stepped out onto the ramp.

Was he... yes, there he was, with the rest of the Hawks, his eyes glued to her. She smiled, a genuine smile, and sent an empathic pulse of love to him as she joined Zan at the foot of the ramp.

(Hotwing)

Emmy. I thought to her. I could feel her love envelop me. Oh, Goddess, she's healed so much. I'm so glad you're back.

It's good to be back, Lyore. she replies. I taught her how to communicate with others telepathically and she's one of the few people (outside my family, that is) who calls me by my Mykari name. I slowly approached her.

"Hey, Steel Lady, it's good to see you." I said.

"Same here, Magic Man." she replies. We just stared at each other, as if it were only the two of us. Well, it would be except for the loud bawling we started to hear.

"What is it with you and romantic moments?!" Seska yelled to Chatterbox, who was all tears at the moment.

"Sorry, quedra." he said. "I'm just a hopeless romantic!" Then he continues sobbing.

"I see some things haven't changed." 'Heart remarked. She then proceeded to greet the other 'Hawks. I just hoped she didn't detect what rage I had left against Dragor; she might figure out my plans for revenge and stop me.

(Detia)

The conference was to begin that afternoon. Leo and I were going to be at the entrance of Bedlama City Hall to represent the Intergalactic Rainbow Coalition. We were told that Princess Regent Lyna was of mixed heritage so we figured she might want to know about the organization. We had just acquired a new member but he couldn't make it because sunlight is deadly to him. He did say that he would like to meet Lady Lyna someday if possible so I told him I would deliver his message. When Seymore arrived Leo and I got into the cab.

"Morning Lady Detia, Hotwing." We both greeted the cabbie. "Did you hear about this big conference they're supposed to be having on Bedlama?"

"Yeah. We're going to be there. Not as part of the conference, but for the IRC," Leo replied. I heard that this meeting should be pretty interesting. I hoped the MATI wouldn't interfere.

(Whisper)

The day of the conference had come. I was very honored to be a part of Lady Lyna's entourage. It felt good to be surrounded by fellow ThunderCats. I hadn't actually seen one since I was captured with the others. It was devastating to watch them die before my eyes. Especially my mate, Panthro. I still have nightmares about what Gen-Ta did to me in front of him before he died.

All of us escorts entered Bedlama City armed and ready. After the Mob attacked the ThunderCats weren't taking any chances. We were to protect her Highness at all costs.

(Phantom)

I sat at an outdoor table at one of my favorite coffee shops on Bedlama. Captain Val'Kirin and Prince Marcus was across from me, enjoying a small lunch and some tea. Our escorts were un-obtrusively keeping an eye on us as well as the people around us. I reflected back on events of the past day or so.

While I watched Emily & Leo were staring at each other, I glanced over the gathered SilverHawks. One caught my eye, though he seemed unaware of the fact. A bare hint of a smile touched my lips. I might have actual made a move to greet him, but Chatterbox's little show distracted everyone and I pulled back from making any move. Before that little event with Dragor I might have done something, the gods knows Emily had been subtly encouraging me. Afterwards, it just reminded me how scared I truly was.

One of the escorts leaned over to speak softly to me. "Your Grace, is that bird always like that?"

I chuckled softly and nodded. "Yes, this is just a mild display compared to some of the stuff he's done."

"I see…"

Before we could speak anymore, one of the pilots came down the ramp. "Your Grace, His Highness request your presence."

I turned to the pilot and nodded. "alright, Let the ship know I'm on my way back." Turning back to the gathering I moved towards Emily. I hoped the SilverHawks didn't hear how I was addressed. I got close enough to her that I could speak softly in her ear. "I have to head back, stay here and enjoy the reunion. Don't worry about having to be back, you can sit out on having to attend with me & Marcus." I patted her on the shoulder and headed back to the transport. My cape flaring behind me causing the Wolf of my Ducal seal to move and shift, as if it was alive.

My escorts followed behind, sealing the hatch after them. As I sat in my seat I looked out the window and watched as we left. I knew I was a coward for not saying anything, but I just can't take the chance of reopening old wounds.

"…do you think?" Marcus said.

"Huh?" I blinked refocusing to the here and now.

"Off daydreaming again Aunt Zan?" He said with an impish grin.

"Hush you." I quipped with a smile. "Now what were you saying?"

"I was talking about this conference. Is there a chance we'll be able to meet the Thundarian delegation?" Marcus said.

"There is a good chance your Highness" Capt. Val'Kirin said as he sipped his tea.

I just nodded in agreement. A commotion caught everyone's attention and all heads turned. It seems the ones we were speaking of was making their entrance. As I looked over the group, I arched an eyebrow. Excusing myself from the pair I stood and headed forward so that I was able to see the group better, one of the escorts following me as I did.

When I was within sight for the ThunderCats, I stopped and just stood there. I pitched my voice so that it would carry without shouting. "Whisper?"

What was Whisper doing with a group as important as the ThunderCats? I'll have to ask her when I get the chance. Other than Whisper, the group was pretty small. There were two elder Thunderians, I think they were twins. One of them looked like a caracal and was next to a weasel-like male with some robotic parts on his body. There was also this huge black panther man and he was walking right next to another female. She was dressed in a blue formal suit, wearing a necklace with a heart charm in the center. Her bright red hair was in a ponytail over the shoulder, which was secured by a replica of an exotic flower. Then my eyes fell to the waist of the woman, which had a crystal-like sword with a cat's eye at the hilt. I assumed that was the legendary Sword of Omens, and that woman was Queen Lyna. I guess the rumors were true; she does bear a striking resemblance to her late father Lord Lion-O. They started heading towards City Hall.

(Whisper)

As we headed into City Hall I heard someone call my name. I turned and saw...Phantom? Yes, it was her, but she was dressed differently than what I was used to. You looked a bit surprised to see me too. I was wearing my ThunderCat outfit and had my insignia on my waist. I nodded to her to acknowledge that I had seen her and moved on with the others. I noticed a SilverHawk and another person were standing at the entrance. Turns out they were there to present Queen Lyna with some information about a special organization called the Intergalactic Rainbow Coalition.

"If you'd like any more information, Your Highness, just contact me or Lady Detia. We'll be happy to answer any of your questions. Or you could visit the web site listed on the card." Queen Lyna thanked the SilverHawk for the information. She had told me she was interested in the organization. I think I heard something about it from Damian.

When we entered Bedlama City Hall we were greeted by Governor Xander's secretary. There were also a few armed guards but they were told that we were coming. Soon we were all seated with Governor Xander and several other representatives. Even Zan was there. After all formal introductions were made, the proceedings began.

(Phantom)

When we entered, I smiled at Lady Detia and told her I'd answer any questions she had later. It was fun watching both her and HotWing's eyebrows reach their hairline when Capt. Val'Kirin requested permission to enter the conference.

I sat back in my chair, my legs crossed and my hands steepled under my chin. To my right sat Prince Marcus and on the other side of him sat Captain Val'Kirin. Behind each of our chairs stood an escort. I had managed to get them in with us.

After everything is over I want to speak with Whisper. It seems we both have a lot of catching up to do. I was surprised when I saw her with the 'Cats. Seems we were both hiding in plain site.

Glancing around I looked for Emily. I wasn't sure if she would be here today. She didn't have to be.

(Whisper)

I explained to Zan that I used to be a ThunderCat before I came to Limbo. I didn't tell her all the horrors I went through to get here, but I did tell her that it was a long story that I didn't have time to tell. We also discussed other things.

[Remember when I told you I thought Eliza was seeing the Creep? Well, I saw her at The Basement like you said I would.] When I told Phantom what I was and heard she just shook her head. I didn't tell her I planned on getting revenge.

I learned from Phantom that Emily was doing very well since that beast attacked her. I told her to let Emily know that I'm glad to hear she's doing better.

Later on that evening I decided to introduce the ThunderCats to Damian. He didn't live to far from the hotel where we were staying. He had given me a high frequency device to use to summon him. It was on the same wavelength as his inner sonar. Like lesser bats, he uses echo location to find his way around in the dark. I stood on the balcony and activated the device. Moments later I could see him flying in the distance.

When Damian landed on the balcony he look concerned.

"Mama Kitty! Is this where you've been all along? Mum's been calling me all night to see if I knew where you were! She's very worried."

[Tell her I'm fine, Damian. I'm just spending time with some friends from out of town. Would you like to meet them?]

"I'd love to!" I introduced Damian to all of the others. At first they seemed a bit wary of him, but I reassured them that Damian could be trusted. I noticed that he started to blush when I introduced him to Wily Kit. We spent some time talking about my life before coming to Limbo. I had plenty of stories to tell about my time taking care of Queen Lyna when she was young. I also told them what it was like to raise Damian. Everyone seemed to be warming up to Damian. Things did get kind of awkward when Weasel started asking him questions about his father, though. Damian didn't seem to mind answering them. When it was getting close to dawn, Damian headed back to his cave. Everyone else retired for the night but I stayed awake for a while. I had been trying to figure out how to carry out my revenge. I knew how to get Dragor but I still didn't know the location of his aerie. Who knew someone who I'd normally consider an enemy would help me with that one obstacle?

(Rakuna)

The operation was a complete success, and no one had dared to interfere. I waited patiently at Pterra's bedside for her to wake up. As she started to stir, my heart skipped a beat. I had loved Pterra since we hit puberty, but I never got the chance to tell her. As soon as she was up and about, she looked around, all confused. I would too if I had spent the last four years in cryogenic suspension.

"Where-where am I?" she asked. She then noticed her body. "My implants..."

"Gone." I explained. "They were removed and your body was repaired via genetic reconstruction." Pterra looked at me, all bedazzled.

"Rakuna, what happened? The last thing I recall is Thundera, and the explosion. Ursor..."

"Left you behind. He was a coward, Pterra. I tried to go back to you, but you were knocked into a coma."

"For how long?"

"Four years today."

"The battle..."

"We lost. Gen-Ta's disappeared, Mammoth's dead, Ursor's in jail (thank the gods) and the ThunderCats regained their world."

"You and Weasel survived."

"Yes, but at a price." I then explained to her the operation she just had. She seemed angry that I had her body tampered with without her consent. "It was the only way." I continued. "Your organics were deteriorating at an alarming rate and you weren't showing any signs of waking up. I didn't want to lose you."

"Where are we now?"

"The only place this operation even exists; Limbo Galaxy, planet Bedlama."

"Are we settling here, Rakuna? We can't go back to Plunn-Dar."

"We'll settle someplace else. There's danger in this part of the universe."

"What kind of danger?" Just then, the doctor in charge of her came in.

"And how are we feeling today?" he asked.

"Much better, doctor." Pterra replied. "Thank you." Her wings then proceeded to grow out of her back. That was a normal trait for winged Saurians; their wings are stuck in their back and they practically grow out when needed. Pterra noticed the doctor looked a little uneasy. "What?" she asked. "Ever seen a Saurian stretch her wings before? Ooh, it feels good to have my real wings back rather than those metal ones I used to have."

"Yea, your wings are very healthy. It's just the way you grew them was just like Dragor." Oh, @#%$! I didn't want to tell her! Pterra turned white as a ghost the moment that bastard's name was mentioned.

"D-d-d-d-d-Dra....gor?" she stuttered. "He's...here? Oh, gods...."

"Pterra, calm down." I said. "I promised you he wouldn't touch you again, and I meant it."

"You...knew?"

"I swear, I had no idea until after we came. If I knew, I wouldn't have brought you. But don't worry, as soon as you're well, we'll leave before he even knows--" No luck. Pterra had completely lost it. It wasn't long before she bolted out of the hospital room. After giving that doctor a good piece of my mind, I started after her.

(Damian)

I normally sleep all day in my cave on Bedlama, but I woke up in the middle of the day for some reason. It wasn't long before I realized what had awakened me. I had an intruder in my home. I got up out of bed to go investigate. I certainly didn't expect to find a female Saurian in hospital clothes standing in my living room.

"Excuse me, but who are you and what are you doing here?"

When she turned and saw me she started to scream.

"Stay away from me!" I didn't have a clue who she was or why she was so afraid of me.

"Look, I'm not going to hurt you. If you're lost maybe I can help you find your way."

"I don't want your help, you sick pervert!" Sick pervert? It took me a moment to realize that this was a case of mistaken identity. I figured she must think I'm my father. This has happened before.

"Look, I'm not Dragor, if that's what you're thinking."

(Pterra)

It took me a few minutes to realize that the male Saurian wasn't Dragor. Since when did Dray develop an accent anyways? But it's been a long time since I've seen him; hell, I was only ten the last time I saw him. It was after Rakuna got me into the Plunn-Dar Home for Mutant Children. Dragor found me and tried to take me back, but Rakuna and Weasel protected me. I haven't seen him since. And that male looks so much like him, I...

"I'm sorry." I said, softly. "It's just, it's been a long time since I've seen him. I can't forget what he did to me."

"Hey, it happens." he replied.

"If you're not Dragor, then who are you?"

"Most people call me Damian."

"Pterra. I'm Pterra." I had a feeling Damian is hiding something, but I'm not sure what. "How do you know Dragor?"

"Well..." he answered. "He's my...biological father." So that explains the resemblance.

"Dray's your dad?"

"But most people say I'm more like my Mum than him. What about you? How did you...sorry, I shouldn't be asking."

"No. No, it's all right. Well, this is quite interesting. Dray has a son and he didn't bother to tell me. Well, that's reasonable since I ran away from home."

"You knew my father? Besides..."

"I was his first." It hurt to say it, but I had to do it. "I was six at the time he..."

"But he usually doesn't screw kids."

"Like I said, I was his first. I was six and he was twelve. He said he wanted to play the game grown-ups played. I didn't know better, so I consented. It hurt so much. After the first time, he wouldn't stop. He kept hurting me again and again. I couldn't tell anyone about this; not even my own mother. Then I met a boy on the street. His name was Rakuna and I was able to tell him everything. He offered to take me to a safe place. He did, and about four years later, Dray tried to take me back, but he was stopped. I haven't seen him since." It felt good to get all of that out. I continued telling Damian about my life after Dray left. How I met Ursor, our trip to Third Earth, our involvement in the Thundera conquest. And he listened to every detail. I felt I could trust him, like I could trust Rakuna. Rakuna! He must be looking for me!

"Pterra," Damian said. "I know it doesn't mean much now, but I'm sorry for what my father did to you. I knew he was sick, but I never thought..."

"That's okay." I replied. "I just hope Dray doesn't discover I'm here or something."

(Damian)

Pterra and I had talked for quite some time. I figured she must be thirsty or hungry.

"I'm not really hungry. My stomach is kind of queasy. I just woke up from surgery earlier today. Do you have anything that might help settle my stomach?"

"I have ginger ale."

"That should do the trick."

As I walked to the kitchen I tottered a bit. I wasn't used to being up so early. And rarely has anyone seen my Vamp form. I appear to be a full blooded Saurian, which is why I wasn't surprised at Pterra's reaction. When I got back with her drink she asked me something that caught me off guard.

"How long have you been playing?" I was still a little sleepy, so it took me a moment to realize she was asking about my violin, which I had sitting in its case on my mantle.

"Since I was seven."

"You any good?"

"Well, I think that's a matter of opinion. Would you like for me to play something for you so you can judge for yourself?"

"Sure. I don't see a problem with that."

(Pterra)

Now, I'm not much of a judge of good music, but it was pretty obvious that Damian was very good! I listened as I sipped on my drink. Not only did his playing sound good, I could also tell by his expression and body language he was really into the music. It almost looked like he was in a trance. Wow. I just found out I have a nephew who's really nice and talented too. I felt kind of proud. I would have never imagined my rotten stepbrother could produce such a wonderful person.

(Rakuna)

I looked for Pterra everywhere. She ran off so fast I didn't see exactly where she went. I had an idea of what direction she headed in, though. She headed straight for a forest not too far from the hospital. I knew I had to find her quickly because she hadn't had time to fully recover from her operation. When I was about to lose all hope of finding Pterra, things took a turn for the better. I could hear her voice nearby. At first I wasn't sure where it was coming from until I saw the cave. When I got to the cave entrance, I was 100% sure it was Pterra. I also heard another voice I didn't recognize. I hurried inside to make sure she was all right.

When I got inside, I saw Pterra and a male saurian that greatly resembled him. I knew it couldn't be Dragor; that saurian was much too young-looking. Still...I snuck over to a shaded window and drew the curtains. Before the saurian drew back immediately, I could tell his skin was smoking. That was when they noticed me.

"Rakuna!" Pterra shouted. "What did you do? Damian, are you okay?"

"I'm fine.." The male called Damian replied. "It's just that I can't stand ultraviolet rays that much. My mum's a Vamp."

"I see...that explains the darkness in here." Well, I knew Dragor wasn't a Vamp, so that Damian fellow couldn't be him.

"Hello." I said, getting their attention. "Remember me? The guy who's concerned for his friend?"

"Sorry," Pterra replied. "Damian, this is Rakuna, the friend I told you about. Rakuna, this is Damian...my nephew."

"Nephew?!" We both exclaimed. By Ratilla...

"You mean..." Damian started. "You and my dad are...siblings?!"

"Step-siblings." she corrected. "That's why Dray took me in the first place; he thought it was okay to screw someone not biologically related to you, no matter what the circumstance."

"Dragor has a son." I muttered. "Dragor has a son?!"

"Rakuna, before you overreact, I want you to know, Damian's nothing like his dad. Well, nothing except for looks."

"I'll believe that when I see it."

"Pterra's told me a lot about you, Rakuna." Damian said. "It's nice to meet you."

"Charmed, I'm sure." I replied. "What did Pterra tell you, exactly?"

"Everything, from her traumatic childhood to now."

"Great...Pterra, we need to get back to the hospital. You still need to recover from your surgery and those doctors looked concerned."

"I don't know if I want to go back, Rakuna." Pterra said. "What if...what if Dray finds us?"

"He won't. Let's just say an old friend of mine is here in Limbo, willing to help more than anything."

"Old friend? But, Rakuna, the only friend you have is Weasel, and he's on the ThunderCats' side."

"I meant my other old friend; the one who helped us last time."

"Mack? He's here?"

"Yep, and he promises he'll take care of Dragor."

(Whisper)

The second day of the treaty discussions had come to an end. We were scheduled to meet with Gov. Xander one more day to complete the treaty. I had some time on my hands so I decided to contact Eliza. I sent her a message that I was still visiting with friends from out of town and I would return tomorrow evening. After sending the message, I decided to pay Daymie a visit. Wily Kit asked if she could come along too. I didn't think Damian would mind, so I said she could come. When we got to his cave I didn't expect to find that he already had company.

Things got pretty wild when we came into Daymie's cave. When Kitt saw a female saurian and a mutant raccoon there, a fight almost broke out. Fortunately, Damian intervened before any shooting started. I learned some surprising information from that particular encounter. I had no idea that it would be the key to my revenge against the Creep.

(Weasel)

Oy...another meeting?! This is going to take forever. Oh, well...there's some time before the next meeting, and I still have a nice bar of gold. I figure I could take it somewhere on Bedlama and have it carved into a loyalty necklace and ask Kara to be my mate. Gods, Rakuna would just scream! Rakuna...it's been a long time since we saw each other. Last time we did, he had taken Pterra from Cats Lair. I tried to convince him to leave her, but he wouldn't oblige. I know he loves Pterra, and that he would do anything for her. I only hope that wherever they are, they're safe. Huh? My laptop's beeping. I find I have some e-mail, which is no big deal. But I certainly didn't expect a message from Rakuna!

Weasel,

By the time you read this, Pterra and I will be on our way out of this galaxy. She's awake now, thanks to an operation that removed her implants and genetically reconstructed her body. I know you're miffed at my taking her, but I couldn't leave her there with those felines. Please try and understand something; you were right when you said I loved Pterra. I always have, and would do anything for her. I heard of this operation a few months ago and decided to give it a shot. A good thing it worked because her organics were seriously deteriorating, but she's alright now. I don't want trouble, Weasel, I just want to have a nice, peaceful life with Pterra. With our records, there's no way we'll be able to return to Plunn-Dar. And I know your kitty friends won't be of much help. But, if it's any constellation, I'm sorry for all the trouble we've caused you and your friends. You know that Ursor manipulated Pterra and I was just watching out for her. I also know about Dragor, the real reason why we're leaving Limbo. If your friends ask about our connection, then tell them, the truth. I may as well have something cleared up.

We'll be okay, old friend. Don't worry about us; we can make it. I'll be seeing ya.

Rakuna

PS: Mack's in town, and he says 'hello'.

I read the message again and again. I still couldn't believe it. I tried to trace the message and came up with a blank. Damn! Rakuna still has some of his old tricks up his metal sleeve.

(Damian)

Before my aunt Pterra and her friend left, she told me she wanted to contact granddad and Nana. Fortunately I had been keeping in touch with them since I was a child. When we contacted them, Pterra and I had a serious conversation with her parents. Turns out they had no idea about what my father had done to her. I also thought it was about time they knew the truth about my parents. For years they thought they were married, when they were actually pretending to be for my sake. I'll say one thing. My grandparents were not happy with any of this information.

(Whisper)

While Damian helped Pterra contact her parents, Rakuna and I had gone outside the cave to have a little talk ourselves. Turns out we had something big in common. We both hated Dragor and wanted to take him out.

[Any ideas?] I asked. Rakuna thought for a moment and nodded. [I'm planning some sort of revenge, but I need to find his hideout. Liza tells me he has a place, but not where.]

"Maybe we could search the Lightyear Limit." he suggested. "If we knew where he was hiding, then we could do something."

[But what?]

"Tell me more about Dragor and his dealings in this galaxy." I told him that Dragor had gotten a lot worse from when he knew him. Rakuna didn't seem surprised at all by this. "He would do that, the miserable bastard. We could search the Limit..."

[I thought of that; Dragor could catch us.]

"Not to worry. I have an old friend in Limbo. His name's Mack Hautagar, but you probably know 'im by another name."

[Can you describe your friend?]

"About yea tall, red hair, looks like a troll, and usually carries a lot of electronic equipment. Know anyone by that description?" What in the world? It can't be Hardware he's talking about, can it?

[Can you contact this friend?]

"Last time I saw 'im, it was before I took Pterra for her operation. He didn't exactly leave me a way to contact him, but I know he has he reasons. I trust him."

[If your friend's who I think it is, then I'm sure he has his reasons. I'll contact someone from the local mob who does not like Dragor's guts. I think it's your friend, but I'm not sure.] I made a mental note to myself to call Hardware ASAP.

(Hardware)

While working on repairs to Echo's Shadow Chaser I got a message on my COM station. I figured it might be another money making opportunity. You know someone needing some work done on their vehicle or needing me to design a new weapon for them, or making modification on a current weapon. I even had a client willing to sell some of my new designs at his weapons shop on Bedlama. I really didn't expect a personal message from Whisper.

[Hardware. I need a tracking device small enough to fit underneath a finger nail or claw. I'll pay you extra if you get it for me before the end of the week. I need it as soon as possible.]

Hmm, I wonder what Whisper's up to that she needs a tracking device? I told her that I'd get it to her first thing tomorrow and to meet me on Fense, outside the diner. Why do I get the feeling this has something to do with the treaty signing? Ah, well. As long as I'm not involved in it.

Next day, I came to Fense with the tracking device. Whisper was there, too; and so was Rakuna! What the hell is going on here?!

"Hello, Mack." Rakuna said when I landed.

"What are you doing here?" I asked. "Haven't you been taking enough risks for one lifetime?"

"I'm with Whisper here." he explained. "She told me everything."

"I didn't want you involved with this sort of group, especially after all you've been through."

"And I won't be. Whisper has a plan to take out Dragor, but we need to find his hideout. We think it's somewhere in the Lightyear Limit, but we're not sure."

"Hmm...the Limit can cause interference if you're in deep enough, but if you can get the coordinates, then we can cook up something."

"We?"

"I promised you I'd take care of Dragor, right? I haven't broken a promise to you yet, but I think I might find a way for all of us to get him."

"Oh, really?"

"Remember what I taught you about getting revenge? Leave the finishing blow..."

"...to the one who deserves it the most. I remember, but what does that have to do with Dragor?"

"There's one person in Limbo who's got a real bone to pick with Dragor, and believe me, the man can hold a grudge."

[And I suppose you know this individual?] Whisper asked.

"So do you; as a bounty hunter, you work for 'im." Whisper looked real shocked when I said that.

[You mean...]

"Yep. Him."

[But I thought Dragor was straight.]

"He is. Your boss just happens to have had a mate who was another of Dragor's victims. Unlike the others, she didn't go through the pain and luxury of surviving it."

[By Jaga...how do you know this?]

"Dray's been bragging about it for years, and I just had my brain fried after the first million times I've heard that story. Besides, I think it's about time he learned the truth about his pet bounty hunter, don't you agree?" Whisper looked real reluctant to turn in her lover. "Look, Whisper. I know that Echo's been with Dragor, and that she's been behind your back. Don't you think you'd oughta get even?"

[How long ago was this attack?] she asked.

"It'll be twenty-three years this week."

[Then the timing couldn't be better.]

(Whisper)

When I got home that night, Eliza was up waiting for me. She looked pretty upset.

"Endora, it's about time you got back! Where have you been all this time?"

[I told you I was visiting friends from out of town.]

"What friends?"

[From Thundera.]

"Oh? So you must know the ThunderCats! You know them personally?"

[Yes.]

"Oh, well, I hope you enjoyed your visit. I'm so glad you're home! I missed you!"

[I missed you too.]

"You know tomorrow is our eight year anniversary. What would you like to do?"

[I'll come up with something. Right now, let's go to bed.]

As we made love I felt kind of guilty about planning on using my lover to capture Dragor, but she shouldn't have cheated on me. I was willing to forgive her. I loved her so much. Dragor, however, was going down. When Liza changed over to her Vamp form she was out like a light. That's when I took my opportunity to attach the tracking device underneath her fingernail. I knew we were going to spend our anniversary together. But I had a feeling the next evening she might go to see the Creep. The night after our anniversary, she told me she was going on a stake out. I waited about a half hour before using the tracking device to follow her.

(Phantom)

Elsewhere, or more precisely beyond the Light Year Limit, on board the New Eden ship Queen Katrina, another meeting was taking place. The Peace conference was coming to a close so the New Eden Delegation was preparing to leave also.

"Are you sure about this Aunt Zan?" asked Prince Marcus.

"Yes. There's only so much running away I can do. I know I should be there at Huntington, running it from the Ducal Palace, but…" Phantom, or should it be said, Duchess Zannatasia said with a helpless shrug of her shoulders.

"But you have concerns here as well." Marcus said with a smile. "We've run the Fife for you this long, a few more years won't matter will it? Not like there is a huge population to worry about now is there?"

"True. Damn it all, it feels like a cop out still." She huffed a sigh as she sat sprawled out in the chair.

"Mother always knew you would never be one to sit still long. Why do you think she gave you so much freedom to do things your own way. Your Seneschal is doing a fantastic job of ruling in your stead."

"Then why didn't she make him the Duke of Huntington?" she asked.

"Don't thinks she didn't make the offer. He turned it down claiming old age." He replied with a laugh. "Though the lord knows that he can still out do most people a quarter of his age, and his grandson is going to be just like him."

Zan just laughed. "Tell me about it. While I was there he was running me ragged! I can only imaging what it would be like if I was there full time."

"Yeah, I bet! Don't worry about things. I'll tell Sis and Dad your staying here. But if you ever need anything, don't hesitate to call. OK aunt Zan?"

Zan stood up, getting ready to leave and return to her asteroid home. "I will Marc." She walked over and gave him a kiss on the cheek. "Take care of yourself and your sisters and brother." With that she turned and left.

(Echo)

I caught a space hack to Brim*Star to pick up my Shadow Chaser. Hardware was waiting for me in his workshop.

"Hey, Echo. Come to pick up your bike? Everything's ready."

"Excellent. How much is the bill?"

"Five hundred Limbo credits."

Before I could finish counting out the payment, we both turned at the sound of another voice.

"Don't worry, baby. I'll cover the cost."

"Dray what are you doing here?"

"Paying Hardware for fixing your bike, is what." Dragor pulled out his card so Hardware could process the payment. I protested, though.

"Dragor, I'm perfectly capable of paying him myself."

"I know. I just want to help you out, beautiful. What's the harm in that?"

My lover handed Hardware his card and the troll accepted. Hardware didn't care who was paying, as long as he got paid. After that, Dragor and I left together.

(Hardware)

That's right, you miserable bastard. Take your little trollop and get out of here. I hope Whisper planted the tracking device like I told her to. About a few hours later, Whisper contacted me and gave out the coordinates. So that's where he's been hiding. Maybe I could tell the boss and...no. Dragor has to be brought to justice. Telling Mon*Star serves no purpose except to add Dray's place to the Mob arsenal. Like that Planet Pervert doesn't have enough toys to play with. I replied to Whisper via a coded link, telling her to get Rakuna and meet me at Fense.

(Whisper)

I met with Hardware and Rakuna around the corner from the Sini*Star diner. I knew the two of them didn't mind getting both Dragor and Eliza, but I wanted so much to protect her.

[Listen you two. I want you to hold off on exposing his location until Eliza is out of there.]

"But..."

[No buts, you. I don't give a damn about Dragor, but Eliza is my lover. I'll deal with her in my own way.]

Rakuna rolled his eyes.

"Why do you even want to bother with her?"

[Have you ever been in love, Rakuna?]

"Uh...yeah, actually I am."

[Then you should understand.]

He got quiet after I said that. They both should have understood that I was going to protect Liza no matter what.

"Fine, fine." Rakuna said. "We'll wait for 'er to leave, then we spring our trap."

"You sure about that, kid?" Hardware asked.

"Yep. Besides, it's not like that pet of Dray's done anything to me or Pterra. We'll leave 'er to Whisper 'ere."

"All right..."

All three of us went to where Dragor was. When we got there, we saw the biggest aerie in Limbo. We stayed a few miles from the aerie so we wouldn't be spotted. There was a little argument between Hardware and Rakuna on who was going to break into the aerie.

"Mack, I can do this! I have the experience of hacking and burglary; this should be no problem."

"I gave you over half your experience. Besides, I know what to look for."

"Oh, really?"

"Yes, really." After about a few minutes, it was decided that Rakuna break in, but with Hardware monitoring him. I was to be the lookout. We soon saw the Nebula Burner fly off. Looks like Liza and Dray are visiting the Basement. Rakuna sped off to the ground entrance without a nanosecond to waste.

(Rakuna)

All right, this shouldn't be too hard. The ground entrance has an elevator with security codes. Oh, gods, this is too easy! The hacker's spike built into my wrist cracked those codes no sweat. Dragor's getting cocky, I tell you. Mack managed to place an uplink between his vehicle and my implants.

"All right, I'm in." I report as I take the elevator. As it stopped, I find myself in quite a place. This place isn't too bad; I might do something similar for when Pterra and I settle into our new home.

"Rakuna, what do you see?" Mack asks me via the uplink.

"Not much," I reply. "Just something found in your everyday deluxe condo."

"Slag the sightseeing and concentrate on the plan. Do you see anything we could use against Dragor?"

"Not yet. I'm heading upstairs." I took the spiral staircase to the upper floor. What a sight the bedroom was! Sheesh! This was even worse than what Dragor did to Pterra, whom he would sometimes tie to the bed with ribbons! I didn't even want to think about what his other victims went through.

"Anything?" Mack asked.

"I'm in the bedchamber, but I don't see...wait a sec." I walk over to a door in the back of the room. It was locked. What could possibly be in here? I managed to pick the lock and take a look-see. "Oh, gods..."

"Rakuna? What is it? Kid! Answer me!"

"I think I found something for proof. There's a lot of shrines to random females. Looks like some sort of trophy room."

"All right, look for the biggest shrine in the room and describe it."

"I see it, and it's dedicated to a bat-like mutant, possibly a Vamp."

"That must be Echo. All right, since that won't work, what about the second biggest?"

"There's one about the same height, but it's dedicated to some Divore female. I see 'er picture in the front, and it's surrounded by candles..."

"What else?"

"And a necklace, with a heart-shaped charm in the center. Must be some sort of memento. May 'ave belonged to her." I took a look at the necklace. The charm was a holo-locket. I accessed the picture, and what I saw brought tears to my very eyes. Heh, I haven't shed a tear in years.

"Rakuna? Is everything all right?"

"Yea, Mack. The charm was a holo-locket, with 'er weddin' picture."

"Can you describe the groom?"

"Don't recognize the species, but he looks insectoid."

"That's the one! Put that locket in a safe place and get back here. We have our proof!"

"I read ya." I closed the locket and placed it in my pocket. I locked the door to the trophy room as I left and used the balcony to climb myself to the bottom. I rushed back to Mack and presented the prize.

"Good job, kid." he said. "I see all those years away from me haven't rusted your skills."

"Yea, yea." I answered. "Hey, Whisper! We're done!" She came over to us and looked us over. I handed her the locket. "Here's your proof." I said. "You got the coordinates to this place still?" She nodded. "Good."

[I'll get our plan in action right away.] she signed. [Dragor's going to finally get his.]

(Warden Lockup)

Eliza Nosferatu, my best bounty hunter, came by that night to drop off a wanted fugitive. She was always the first one I called because I knew she's fast and thorough. She always gets her man. Except for that one time she went after that bastard, Dragor. She ended up becoming one of his victims. The fiend even managed to get her pregnant! I half expected her to get an abortion, but she said it wasn't the baby's fault who it's father was. She also felt this might be her last chance to have a child. I knew about what the Bounty Hunter had done to her and how he had caused her to miscarry. So, her actions in that situation were understandable.

Later on that night I got a visit from another one of my bounty hunters. It was Endora Thronclaw. I thought it strange for her to be here because she usually works in the daytime.

"Mrs. Thornclaw? What are you doing here this late?"

Without a word, she pulled something out of her pocket and laid it on my desk in front of me.

I immediately recognized the object before me. It was the locket I had given my wife, Katherine for our first wedding anniversary. I had thought it lost forever when it was discovered missing from around her neck the day she died.

"Where...where did you get this?"

Endora then proceeded to bring something else out into the open. It was a set of coordinates. Could it be...dare I hope?

"Is that where that bastard Dragor is?" She nodded, much to my delight. I look at the clock; it was 12:03. It was now twenty-three years to the day since my beloved angel was taken from me. Losing her, especially in that manner, was difficult, but it was so much worse when I found out she was pregnant at the time of her passing. I didn't even bother to tell anyone that part...gods, twelve years of marriage and that was the only time she ever conceived. Now, on the anniversary of her death, I had the means to bring her rapist-murderer to justice. How very appropriate.

Screw the law; I'll deal with him myself. They let him escape in the first place and there was no way I was going to let that mistake happen again. Gods know it cost me dearly.

"I've got you now, Wyvern."

(Echo)

After dropping off my bounty, I went to see Dray. We were sharing a very romantic moment in his hot tub. The lights were dimmed and the tub was surrounded with candles. The heat had me very relaxed. I leaned back on my love's shoulder as he caressed my body kissed my neck.

"Oh, Dray, I wish all my nights could be like this."

"They can be, baby."

"Oh really? How so?"

"You could come stay here with me."

"Dray, don't tease me."

"I'm not, Liza. I've been thinking about asking you that anyway."

"You were going to ask me to come live with you here?"

"Yeah."

"Dray...I can't do that!"

"Why not?"

"Because...well what about Puss Puss?"

"What about her? It's about time you left her anyways."

At first I thought Dragor was joking, but when I looked into his eyes, I could tell he was dead serious.

"Eliza, I'm tired of competing with that furball for your time and attention. She always seems to get the better end of the deal anyway."

"What?"

"When it comes down to it, you always put her feelings before mine."

"Dray that's not true!"

"Oh yeah? What about your birthday that just passed? You told me you would spend the night of your birthday with her, then we could do something the next night. When our time rolled around, what did you do? You spent the next night with her too! And you told me you forgot about our date!"

"I made it up to you the next night..."

"You wouldn't have had to do that if you'd thought about me in the first place. I was really hurt when you told me you forgot." I was feeling really guilty at that point.

"Oh, Dray...I'm sorry. I had no idea you felt that way. Will you forgive me?"

"Of course. All you have to do is agree to move in with me and all will be forgiven and forgotten," he replied as he nibbled on my ear.

"Dray...this is so sudden. I'm...I'm going to need time." He responded with a frustrated growl.

"Gods, Liza, how much time do you need?"

"Give me three nights." He thought for a moment, then nodded in agreement.

"Ok, you got three nights. After that, we'll just cut each other off all together and leave each other alone." I certainly didn't want that. "Liza, who do you love more? Me or her?" Oh dear. Wasn't expecting him to ask me that.

"I love you both equally."

"Yeah, that's why you always put her feelings first, right?"

"Dray, I promise I will never make that mistake again. Listen, I have to leave. It's getting late and you know I can't stay here."

"All right, baby. See you in three nights." We gave each other a long, passionate good-bye kiss before I left his aerie. I had no idea that someone was waiting to spring a trap as soon as I left.

(Rakuna)

It's about bloody time she left! I staked out Dragor's place and waited until Eliza went home. The instant daylight came, I sent out a signal from my current location. Lucky for me, Dray's a heavy sleeper, especially after intimacy, so he won't notice that I'm drawing in his enemies until it's too late. I know Mack and Whisper said they have everything under control, but I wasn't taking chances. No siree, I was making sure that bastard was caught and that he was caught good. I do believe the local law will find Dragor's hiding place very interesting indeed.

(Whisper)

After Rakuna let Hardware and I know Eliza had left Dragor's aerie, I headed there armed with my laser crossbow. I knew that when he would spend weekends with Eliza, he would step out not long after dawn for his morning stretch. As soon as he unfurled his wings, I would shoot him between the wings, paralyzing him long enough to be restrained. My revenge was so close I could taste it!

I held my crossbow rock steady as I waited for Dragor to come out. That's when I noticed something out of the corner of my eye. Someone else was coming. The SilverHawks? What are they doing here? I hope they wouldn't tip off Dragor, because I wanted to make sure I got my revenge!

Finally he came out on the balcony. He had no clue that someone was watching him. Time seemed to stand still as I waited for him to unfurl his wings. At last he stretch, unfolding his wings from out of his back. When they were completely unfurled, I fired.

(Dragor)

When I felt the blow between my wings, paralysis set in immediately. I was unable to brace myself as I fell to the ground face first. I lay there helpless. Soon I could see a pair of furry brown feet at my eye level. I'd recognize those feet anywhere. That damned hairball had shot me in the back! But how the hell did she find my aerie? I knew Liza couldn't have told her. She's one of the few people I can trust completely, and when she makes a promise, she keeps it.

(Whisper)

Finally, the Creep was about to get what her deserved. Soon, he would be out of my way and out of my life. I would truly have Eliza all to myself. I smiled when he began to growl at me. Just for the hell of it, I kicked him in the face. By that time the SilverHawks had landed and were preparing to transport him to Penal Planet Ten.

"You are so going to regret this, fish breath! I'm gonna make sure you pay for this!"

I just grinned and gave him the finger, then waved good-bye. Good riddance! Now to go home to my love.

(Hotwing)

Finally! I thought we'd never catch that monster! Before anyone could notice, I conjured up the syringe containing my revenge for him and injected it into him as discreetly as possible. No turning back now. Excellent! Every last drop of the curse is coursing in his veins. If I did this right, then he should experience the effects right after he sleeps. Pleasant dreams, yungar.

(Dragor)

Well, this turned out to be a good day. For the first time ever, I'm in a cell on the Penal Planet. Hmm, number ten, too. Shouldn't be a total waste. Despite the fact that I'm in a super-tough cell with no chance of escape, it's not gonna ruin my fun, which shall start right about...now.

"Well, well, well." I say casually at the scrawny figure in front of my door. "If it isn't Limbo's resident insect. What brings you down to my dreary accommodations, besides the fact you run the place?"

"You know exactly why I'm here." he just said. Oooh, somebody's got an attitude.

"Okay, if this is about Kate, I'm really, really sorry....that she died. I tried to be gentle on her--"

"Oh, I'm so sure!"

"But she kept fighting me. For some odd reason, she wouldn't leave you and run away with me, but that's all in the past. Anyways, her death was a total accident."

"You call the murder of my beloved an accident?! You call tormenting me every single day since your return about how you slandered her precious body an accident?! You dare to brag about that particular little event every single chance you get and then repeat history with other victims?! The courts made a grave mistake in letting you off on insanity!" I then saw he had a laser pistol out, pointing at me. "And I plan to make sure that mistake doesn't happen twice."

"And what exactly are you going to do about it, insect?"

"What I should've done a long time ago..." Well, I'll be damned! He's getting ready to pull that trigger. About time he got himself a spin. "You've made my life a living nightmare for twenty-three years to the day, Wyvern, and it ends now." Then he fired.

(Whisper)

When I got home, Liza was still asleep. I crawled into to bed next to her, kissed her, and held her close. Now that Dragor was finally put away, I could truly relax and not worry about him interfering with me and my lover. I couldn't understand why she started seeing him again anyway. He treats her like sh*t. Sometimes worse than that. I lost count of the times he's cause her heartbreak and pain. I never did forget the time's she would go to her room to cry herself to sleep because of some of the things he said and did to her. Well, I was determined to keep him from ever hurting her again. He never deserved Eliza in the first place. The only thing he deserved was to be put away. I couldn't help but smile at the thought of him in total misery in the Penal Planet.

(Stargazer)

Finally! I thought we'd never get a hold of Dragor. Once the other 'Hawks got an anonymous tip on a location, they hightailed it and arrested him. Lord knows he's no Mon*Star, but still has a lot to answer for. Ah, here's Bluegrass with a report now.

"Milk run completed." he says. "Everything went smoothly, Commander."

"Thank God." I reply. "There's one less thing to worry about now that Dragor's put away."

"Yes sir, we sure don't expect him gettin' out of Penal Planet Ten any day now." I paled at that last comment.

"You put him in Penal Planet Ten?!" I shouted.

"Sir, yes sir. That's where we put all the Mobsters, right?"

"All the Mobsters but Dragor! It says so in his file, for Pete's sake!"

"Sir, with all due respect, Penal Planet Ten's got the highest security rate."

"And a Warden who'll give anything to have a chance to kill Dragor!"

"What? Kill Dragor? Sir, I know ol' Lockup's a bit harder on the sex offenders than anybody else, but you don't think--"

"Dragor is the reason for that extra hardness. Don't ask me how; that's between Lockup and myself."

"So, what do we do?"

"Return to Hawk Haven; I'll deal with this myself." I cut communications and rode off to the Penal Planet. Damn it! If he's as bitter as he was twenty-three years ago, then I can't afford to waste any time. On the way, I contacted Condor and gave him the situation.

"Penal Planet Ten?!" he cried. "Tell me you're kidding, Gaze."

"I wish I was. You know that Lockup's got a huge chip on his shoulder ever since..."

"he lost Kate. I know, but that was twenty-three years ago; don't you think he's moved on by now?"

"Do you know what today is, Jack?"

"Yea, it's a Friday, I think. Lost track a bit due to schedule."

"The date, Condor, the date!"

"May--oh sh*t. The day Kate died."

"Exactly. Still think he won't kill him?"

"I'm on my way." Now, all I need to worry about is stopping that fool before some real damage is done. When we go to the Penal Planet, Condor and I just barely stopped Lockup from committing murder. The shot just missed Dragor by a hair. And Lockup? Well, he wasn't too happy that we interfered with his revenge, so I left Condor to keep an eye on Dragor while I had a talk with the Warden in private.

"What, in the twenty hells of Limbo, did you think you were doing, Jeremiah?!" I told him.

"Remedying a mistake, what did it look like?" he replied. "Have you forgotten what that bastard did to those women since he escaped? Have you forgotten what he put me through when he killed Katherine?"

"Of course not. I wish I could forget such a thing."

"And need I remind you that one of your own was defiled by that monster?"

"As bad as Kate was, only she survived. No, you don't need to remind me. But, Warden, this isn't the answer."

"The law let him off once, Stargazer, I'll be damned if I let them do it again!"

"This won't bring Kate back, you know that! You could've committed first-degree murder. And if you had succeeded, you could've lost everything."

"I lost everything a long time ago, thanks to that creature!"

*sighs* Okay, this isn't going to be easy; Lockup was one of the stubbornest people in Limbo and the one person who can talk him out of this crazy plan has been dead for twenty-three years. "Okay," I started. "We know what you want, but is this what Kate would've wanted?" That hit the spot. God bless that woman for looking out for her patients, no matter what their reputation. That was the best thing about her; to see something that no one else sees in other people. "She'd be turning in her grave by now if she knew you were trying to off one of her most difficult patients."

"I'm sure she would understand that I'm a bit ticked at him for what he did to her!"

"And would she care?"

"If Kate hadn't bothered with filth like Dragor, she'd be alive today!"

"When was the last time you took a vacation, Warden?" I asked, changing the subject.

"Last one was my grievance leave after..." Nothing further.

"Look, you've been under a lot of stress; we all have. What you need is a nice long sabbatical. To clear your head."

"Perhaps...what's the catch?"

"I'll take care of your attempted murder on Dragor."

"You do that. I'll get on my sabbatical today. After all, a rape-murder carries the maximum sentence of capital punishment. I'm sure the law's learned from its last mistake involving Dragor." Well, that was settled. And as for Dragor? He probably would've pressed charges for the heck of it if I didn't threaten to expose his run-in with Sundance to the public; he didn't like admitting a woman got the best of him. God, he causes almost as much trouble as Mon*Star himself does!

(Whisper)

The next couple nights with Eliza were pure bliss. Knowing the Creep was where he belonged had me felling relaxed and happy. Things took a drastic turn about three nights after I captured Dragor. I had just come back from Fense to find Eliza at the cave entrance. She didn't look happy. I also noticed all my things were strewn all over the yard and covered with coffee grinds. When I looked back up at my lover for an explanation she replied with a cold glare, "You got a message...from The Boss, deary...would you like to hear it?"

Before I could answer, Eliza played the message for me.

"This is Warden Lockup for Mrs. Endora Thornclaw. I'd like to commend you for your excellent work on your last bounty. We've been trying to capture Dragor for decades without success. You've done what not even my best bounty hunter could do. I see a promotion in the works for you. Once again, good job!"

[Is that what this is about?] I asked. [Your little dragon getting penned? I'm surprised he hasn't been slayed already.]

"How could you do this to me?" Liza asked. "After everything I've done for you?!"

[Like cheating on me with Dragor?! Don't think I didn't see the two of you together again! He was manipulating you, just like before!]

"Dragor loves me! And I love him! You had no right to do what you did!"

[How could you love someone like that monster?! You deserved better than him! If it weren't for me, you would've gone down with him because there were plenty of people out to get Dragor!]

"Especially the Boss! Do you even realize what you've done?! Dray'll be killed before he even gets a trial!"

[I wish!] Then a thought just occurred to me. [Wait a minute, you knew what Dray put him through? Raping and murdering his wife?]

"Of course I did, and it wasn't murder. Dray told me what happened that day he first escape, and her death was an accident."

[They won't see that when they put him on trial.]

"Get out. I never want to see you again, ever." I didn't say anything; I just gathered my things and left. How could she be so ungrateful?! I did this for her, after all! And Dray getting killed at his arrival didn't sound like such a bad idea; wishful thinking, but not a bad idea. When I got to the Penal Planet to get my bounty, I was surprised to see the Deputy Warden. She told me that the Warden had to go on a long-deserved sabbatical. After what that poor man went through what he did, I thought he deserved a nice, long break. I stayed at the Omni for a while and contacted Damian to tell him what happened. He was much more understanding than Eliza, thank goodness.

If I had to do it all over again, I'd do it in a heartbeat, only I probably would've offed Dragor instead of bringing him in alive. Eliza hated me, but I didn't care. She'll get over it eventually, but until now, I'll wait for her to cool down. I myself need to get over the anger I felt towards her for protecting that monster and cheating on me. There was also the anger of what I felt towards Dray for what he did to her, not to mention every other female that's crossed his path.

I guess what they say is true; hell hath no fury like a woman scorned.

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