OUTCASTS

Crystal awoke from her sleep refreshed, and the awful din of the alarm just an unpleasant memory. She lay perfectly still, the results of her rashness before. She wanted to see--Clearly- Now more than ever. The passing hours gnawed at her. She tried desperately to push time away and ahead by thinking of other times and places, but this brought her only sadness. Finally Crystal was tied of patience. Breakfast would be in an hour, more or less she guessed, and she would not eat anything that she could not see this time!

She decided to try something. Something they had begin to teach her in camp, before she enlisted. She cleared her mind of the flow of thought, and brought that thought into focus, concentrating on her sight.

She felt her head pounding softly as the normal rush of blood flow in her ears became a deep roaring, It was into this sound that the cheetah girl poured all her healing energies. Crystal expended the energy to sit up in bed. She steadied herself, and cleared her mind. Opening it allowed all of her concentration to meld with her energy, which flowed now to her eyes.

The female felt her eyelids grow warm, and began to feel the flow of tears on her muzzle. They pooled, and ran rivulets thru her fur as she tilted her head a bit. She felt no pain, or discomfort. Her concentration was now so deep that she seemed detached from the body that she now fought to heal. Crystal was not conscious of her own breathing as her entire world focused on the darkness under her eyelids. That darkness was broken by small pinpoint streaks of light. It seemed that there might be a meteor shower in the darkness of her personal sky. The bright traces grew in frequency and intensity as they built a soft glow which seemed to soften the darkness before her eyes. Then it coehelessed, contracting to become a single small point which seemed at first to implode. And then Crystal's vision was filled with a soft flash, and her eyes snapped open involuntarily.

She gasped at the suddenness of it all, and at the wet warmth that blanketed her eyes, turning her world into a multi-hued rainbow of prisms. Gently, almost fearfully, she brushed her eyes with tho corner of her bed sheet. Then, she blinked and looked up.

Shazi finished his brief rounds, and returned to the Hospital just as the alarm tone on the food processor sounded. He decided to take her breakfast tray himself, for the otter doctor wanted one more look at Crystal's eyes. Inwardly, a part of him decided that seeing her smile would not be so bad either.

He pulled the tray from the warmer, making sure the names matched, as did his orders for her diet. Satisfied, he took the tray and began to walk toward her room. He had just finished his second step when the morning stillness was rent by a sound he knew, but which took hearing twice to register--A cheetah's bark-like almost canine cry!

Shazi's next step was unencumbered by the tray, as he let it drop to the floor and raced toward Crystal's room as fast as his short legs would let him!

In the command center, another set of ears heard the sounds as well. Shomron didn't need to hear it a second time, for he heard it's first echo and felt the wave of emotions that came along with it, He was already into a flowing run as it came a second time, followed by a fainter, more distant clash of metal!

Dasher saw Shomron virtually explode out of the room at the sound, but this time the margay stayed clear of the infamous red button. Rather, he stayed at his post, and for the second time in one shift, he flipped the charger on his stunner to force six!

Shomron's full run was a burst of pure acceleration that could make a bullet self conscious. He covered the distance to and thru the hospital proper while a tray still rebounded off the hard floor. His slipstream caught the thin metal stamping and spun it again, like a windswept leaf. Before it could hit the floor again, the male cheetah was at the tunnel junction, bearing down on a squat furred form who was trying to defy gravity and the limits of his own body in his own dead run!

There was no time to think, only to act. Without so much as a break in stride, Shomron snatched up the Otter, tucking Shazi into his body as the otter sat on Shomron's forearm! Shomron's single motion was flawless and instantly both otter and cheetah were moving like a single Fur-Bearing bullet down the long barrel of the corridor!

The din and clatter of the falling tray subsided the split second that Shomron arrived in the doorway, and transformed his massive legs from pistons into breaks. Shazi was drawing his second fraction of a breath as Shomron stopped, and the rushing air stood still enough for the otter to gasp in a full breath! The sound, and the unintentional surprise it conveyed was perfect counterpoint to the sight that met Otter and Cheetah eyes!

Crystal's bed was empty, and she was nowhere to be seen!

Almost before a squeeze of alarm shot thru Shomron, the room was filled with another sound.

A soft and gentle purring!

Hello, Vladimir! a smooth voice almost whispered.

Shomron turned sharply toward the voice, still holding an armful of Shazi. The Otter whistled with shock.

Her eyes were the softest violet that he could imagine, and the light that poured from them as he was swept into them was not diminished at all by the fact that Cystal's eyes overflowed with tears!

The Cheetah pair leapt for one another with twice the explosive force of Shomron's run, and when they met, both bodies willingly entwined, with Shazi woven between them!

The Otter healer was practically vibrated into a fall by their mutual purr as Crystal buried her hear in Shomron's shoulder and sobbed! Even Shazi's reserved nature was shaken by the display of overwhelming joy! Shazi hated to be the one to do it, but the healing arts came first with the otter, and Crystal was still his patient.

Crystal. Dear? Shazi asked, tugging gently at her. Look at me, Love. Shazi told her.

Crystal complied. What sweet words. Crystal swept Shazi into her hug as well!

Shazi took a probe from the pocket of his smock. Follow this with those beautiful eyes, Love. Shazi instructed as he swept the tip of the probe toward her muzzle until it touched her nose with a tickle! Crystal's eyes followed it, crossing gently. Before they could stay that way, Shazi swept the probe horizontally across her line of vision. Crystal's powerful neck twitch as well as the rapid motion of her eyes told Shazi that Crystal's instinct's as well as her eyes had been reassured to the trained weapons they were designed to be.

Any pain at all. Dizziness? Shazi inquired.

Does happiness count toward being dizzy? Crystal answered quickly, adding a smile hat made the overhead lights unnecessary!

Not in this case. There seems to be no trouble with your balance. Shazi observed.

Crystal broke her tender stranglehug on Shomron just long enough for him to swing his paws upward, so that Crystal could come up on her pawtips, and flow into a dance like twirl that did everything to show off her exquisite form! It lasted a few moments and then the pirouette ended with Crystal laced into Shomron's arms once more!

Shazi's muzzle hung open. I--I'll take that as-- a no. Shazi stammered, almost ashamed to admit the arousal he felt. He shoved it down again with all his will, and pushed on. Exactly what can you see and how well, my dear?

She parted from Shomron slowly, and held him out by the shoulders at her considerable arms length. Crystal looked at Shomron with a warm light that could have melted cobalt, and then she turned her head slowly, to look at Shazi.

This is all I'll ever need to see again, and as for how well. Crystal began her statement, and then cut it off by pulling Shomron into a deep embrace, crowned by the most sensual kiss the otter could imagine! Testimony to it's depth came from the floor, where Shomron's curling toe claws raised curls of wood around his contracting paws!

Crystal planted the kiss firmly and held it with all her heart and strength. Only when she felt Shomron completely relax did Crystal raise him slowly to a standing posture once more. As they parted, the female cheetah could not help but notice something new in the male Cat's eyes. Something she sensed had been long absent. The fire of true passion for someone else besides a cause!

When Shomron could finally speak, it was with a warm purr that turned Cystal's spine to licorice.

You may constitute an entire second front, if it comes to a fight.

Aw, Vladimir, sweet. She replied, barely able to speak herself. You know I'd rather make love than war.

Shomron beamed at the thought, and Crystal's heart soared to see him smile!

I hate to interrupt the peace conference. Shazi remarked. But love needs nourishment in other ways as well, and if Crystal's going to recover fully, she needs to eat. Which would not be a bad idea for the male of the species, I might add. Shazi finished.

Shomron looked at Crystal. Breakfast in bed again? He asked.

Crystal shook her head. I'll eat on the floor, the roof or off of the walls, provided we eat together.

The Cheetah pair took paws and strolled out toward the mess hall!

It was a second tray, filled to heaping with the simple stew that was their all around staple. But as Shomron and Crystal sat across the table from each other, still holding paws and each using their chopsticks to feed the other, the first watch and all of the morning shift was treated to a sweet flow of honeyed purring to go with their morning rations!

Shomron was profoundly in love, and found no shame in finally admitting that to himself, and to Crystal with the looks they shared. But the elder Cheetah could never be so smitten that he would or could forget the one thing he loved as much as Crystal.

Dear? Shomron ventured with an almost schoolboy quality to his shy voice.

Yes, My Darling? Crystal's reply was anything but bashful, for she had wanted to say those words aloud almost as long as she wanted to remember.

There are some things we need to talk about.

Fantastic! Crystal answered When is the Lifemating?

Shomron smiled, sidestepping the remark with a glance and a smile. We'll talk about that later. Shomron paused, feeling awkward as he looked down at the table, trying to find gentle words for some harsh realities. The Funeral--Is this morning. He blurted out fast. If you feel up to it, we'd like you to be with us.

We? Crystal Inquired.

Yes. He replied. I sent to both Shamir and Shalimar. Both of them think you have a right to be among friends for this difficult time. Shomron explained.

What's so difficult? Crystal said bravely. It ought to be good for a laugh or two. Her voice broke slightly at the end of the attempted bravado.

There's more at stake here, love. You have to decide.

What do you mean, darling? Crystal asked gently.

Well, Lover. We older and wiser heads have talked. We all think you should be given the right to decide whether you want to stay here or leave. Shomron told her flatly.

The she cheetah's muzzle was hanging open before he had half finished. By the time he had said his piece, it was moving slowly, but without a sound. She inhaled sharply, forcing herself to breathe and think at the same time again.

You mean you'd. Here? Stay? You'd trust me. After what I tried to do and-- She stammered, half helpless with surprise.

We don't wish to pressure you in any way. We know we can trust you, if you decide to go back. Shomron began to explain. That explanation was cut off as she spring forward, clearing the top of the table with two feet to spare, in a standing spring that left Crystal wrapped around Shomron, bawling her newly healed eyes out!

Shomron's age had given him certain insights into the female of the species, but this time, he was defenseless! He just held her, and waited.

You do care for me. For me, myself. She wept with happiness.

Why Yes, Crystal. Haven't I told you that from the first day in your room? Shomron asked, partly in shock from the sudden explosive onset of female emotions.

Forgive me Darling. she begged quietly. I could never be absolutely sure until this moment. It was my training. I was so stupid. She confessed quietly.

Shomron held her close and nuzzled her gently. He knew what she was trying to say. Did you really think we might. Kill you? Shomron asked with notable difficulty.

No. Not after the screening disolved. But we've been told that the resistance regards fur bearers who are detached to Internal Security as traitors. She explained It took being here and feeling all of you with a clear mind. And heart to complete my de-programming. And then for you to trust me enough to choose to live for myself. Oh darling. You do care. All of you! Crystal purred as she hugged to Shomron for life itself!

You can have as long as you need to decide. Shomron told her.

Whatever happens, I'll always love you. Shomron confessed quietly.

Oh, Sweetfur. Crystal purred softly. It would take two Simian armies to make me leave you. Ever. Crystal told him. And I'd fight them both one pawed, if you asked me to.

This time, it was Shomron's turn to cry.

The battle group altered formation, from the standard box to the diamond that the armor preferred. Floating down the broad avenue as they were, the shaped formation sealed the street from one side to the other, and formed a grid of fire that would let the Tracs protect one another better. The formation moved slowly and deliberately toward the Nexis, Searching the area with sound and motion detectors screened against the pulses from the tracs.

Rocar looked over at the carical who sat at the communication and sensor station. Give me a Reading. Within one hundred Stadia. Any life forms. Rocar sent.

The display before the desert cat's trained eye swept out a line of soft blue. It Pulsed, echoed, and returned to the center of the display the same soft colour.

Nothing but ground clutter, Rocar. We are clear for one five--"

The smaller Cat's send was interrupted by a soft, plaintive ping from the display. This time the blue line broke as it wept across the display, leaving it its wake, three shapes, outlined in red.

"Large Group. Simians. Bearing thirty-four degrees, distance twenty- five Stadia." The caracel reported aloud so he could be sure that the entire crew heard him. "Looks like the next zone over."

"There shouldn't be anyone there but the repair crews." Nachtoter commented.

"This is no work detail. I paint one hundred. Maybe more." The caracel answered.

"Formation Right, In echelon." Rocar ordered, speaking and sending as was customary. "Let's see what they are doing up so late."

The battle group pivoted easily, going from the debris strewn avenues to hovering easily and swiftly over the shattered remnants of buildings as the formation cut swiftly across the block and moved onto the next avenue to the west.

As the Tracs picked up speed on the smooth surface, Rocar could hear the sound of the scanner pings increasing. The caracel called out a stream of steadily decreasing numbers that alternated with the increasing number of targets the scanner contacted.

Nachtoter reached forward in his gunner's chair and opened the breech on the Trac's smoothbore cannon. Rather than bother the caracal who was supposed to be his loader, he picked up two rounds, one in each paw, and set one into the breech, while he queued the other onto the autoloader.

The formation cut the corners off it's run of the last few Stadia, and the Rocar's point trac was the first in the line to round the corner of the boulevard, a corner that was partly blinded by the gutted shells of two buildings that had been swallowed up in the blast.

Rocar pushed the scanner back, away from his muzzle, and ducked forward between Nachtoter and the caricel, toward the fore hatch of the trac. The huge Cat could expose his eyes safely, just by standing naturally to full height. The warrior had always trusted his senses before any technology, and a combat patrol was no time to change.

At once, he felt a flurry of sends touch his mind, and as the trac came full around the corner, to present a full view of the boulevard, Rocar had to fight his disbelief and anger long enough to signal a halt to his formation.

They shoved her, harder this time, and she fell again. They dragged her up, trying to force her to stand, but one leg folded under her and she collapsed into a cowering ball as they began to kick her slowly along the street in front of them Some of the others tried to fight back, but even claws were no match for armored breastplates and heavy mailed gloves, which struck at them one after the other, sending even the formidable badger sprawling as the Simian mob pushed its way up the avenue.

Nachtoter could feel the shock and rage that came with his Commander's order to halt. Something was deadly amiss, for none knew better than the huge panther that Rocar's legendary strength flowed from a total command of his emotions under fire. Yet, the simple, non tactical order was edged with such cold fury as to make ever the Panther's blood chill for a moment. Even before Nachtoter could send, Rocar tensed and spring up thru the forward hatch with a force that moved the entire Trac backward slightly!

There was a low hiss of hate coming from the mob as they shoved and pummeled the smaller group of fur-bearers along the length of the avenue. For the smaller group, there was no refuge to either side, as the mob was a solid entity that swelled the entire width of the street. Pummeled on the left, they would run and dodge to the other end, only to be kicked back into the middle of the street again.

Above the hiss of mindless violence and blind hate, there arouse a single sound. To some, it may have been thunder, save for the cloudless sky. Others might have reasoned that a second explosion of some kind was ripping its way over the decimated landscape. It was a sound no Simian could make in a trial of a thousand years. Its focused outpouring of anger dwarfed the mob as it built and blossomed, echoing in parts and reverberating from the shattered buildings, as if their tortured skeletal frames had elected that single moment to express anger at their own destruction.

Most of the victims lay cowering on the pavement, rolled into balls as a feeble defense against the next kick or stomp of heavy boots. They were at a perfect angle to see a tremendous white shape seem to appear from the topmost members of what had once been a large house. His colour stood out more because of the dark, twisted mass of black the edifice had become, and as the rising light of the full moon caught this figure, the victims saw the lightning streak that came on the edge of a thunderous roar!

Rocar wasted no motion. His body was trained as a weapon, and he could be surgically precise in it's use. As he took in the appalling scene from above, Rocar targeted the center of the mobs front line, where two of the huge Simians seemed to be doing most of the attacking. Rocar launched himself straight at the pair in the front as the echo of his roar still shattered the stillness of the nite, and the nerves of the rest of the mob. Rocar could have taken both of them with a single pawswipe in midair, as easily as springing up to knock fruit from a low tree limb. His springing pounce of a body check could have melted them both like snowflakes, resting on his warm pawpads.

Instead, he sailed down directly on top of them, using all his body weight as dead weight, and their own bodies to break his controlled fall. The heavy thud which followed the dying echo of the roar was a softer sound, but it was something twenty times more visceral and gut wrenching than any roar could be! There was something oddly universal about the sound of a bodies suddenly mashed to a pulp!

Some in the front rank of the mob shrank back, others fell over those behind them, but as Nachtoter watched from the top hatch of the Trac, the entire mob of perhaps five hundred took a collective stride backward!

Rocar made a point of stepping forward and pausing to shake the ooze from his paws, both fore and hind, in the general direction of the mob. The front rank took another full step back, and the mob went along with them.

Seemingly unconcerned, Rocar asked one of the flat faces "Who's in charge here?"

One of the other Simians, the one holding the thick stick, gestured with it toward the two gooey Simians.

"Oh." Rocar said casually. "What a pity." Rocar paused in his thoughts, to draw up one forepaw and turn it slowly claws up before his muzzle, so the Simians could see it. The huge paw flexed, and was crowned by five ivory white claws, each of them half of a Simian's hand in length.

"I suppose that means that you're in charge here?" Rocar's question was punctuated by an understated glance up the stick that the Simian held. Less than an hour before, it had been a sapling. Instantly the tree-stick fell to the pavement, and it's owner melted back into the mob.

Rocar nodded with satisfaction. "This area is restricted. Disperse at once, by order of the Military commander for this sector." Rocar told them in his best and most even "official voice "That's Me! He added, as if to share an open secret with the mob.

"And what if we don't feel like it?" A faceless gravel voice called out from the safety of the crowd.

"In that event, Force could be applied by Authorized Military Personnel." Rocar told them all, and then added slyly "That's me, too!"

Nachtoter watched from a distance as the full implications of the situation spread from Simian to Simian within the mob. A low murmur came from the mass of Simians and the panther could almost smell the Simian fear on the night air. But the black cat also knew the other thought going thru the collective Simian brain at that moment. Nachtoter reached down and flipped a switch. There was a satisfying hum as the Trac's cannon loaded and locked. Nachtoter's paw hovered over the trigger as he waited to see what the mob would do.

"We have a right to be here!" Another voice called out from the safety of numbers.

Rocar decided to take a calculated risk. He made a slow, sweeping turn, that made the front ranks of Simians sway backward to avoid coming too close to him. He turned his back on them fearlessly, and walked up the avenue a bit. Showing no particular urgency, or so it seemed to the mob, he turned to face the crowd again, sitting down squarely in front of the group of fur bearers who were the object of the Simian justice.

"If You do--" Rocar called back. "So do they. " He added, glancing back over his shoulder. "But I say you're ALL leaving. And that's a Military Order!" He told them, knowing by sight that more than half the rabble were Simian soldiers.

"What about them?" One of the Simians in the front rank dared to inquire.

"Your concern for your fellow citizens is touching." Rocar replied in ironic tones, "But they are under arrest."

The statement seemed to shock the mob. For exactly the one moment that Rocar needed, the Mob was unsure if the huge lion was friend or foe. The question Simian half smiled. "What for?"

"Violation of curfew, disturbing the order of the public peace, and trespassing on a military encampment. I promise you, they will be dealt with. In my own fashion." Rocar's tone changed as he spoke, becoming cold and predatory, something a Simian could understand. He paused, casting an icy glare back over his shoulder at what was still a helpless pile of beaten fur bearers. The glance caught a set of green masked eyes, and one of the raccoons went fetal with stark terror.

Here and there in the front ranks of the mob, Simian faces smiled, and heads nodded in understanding. Slowly, the mood of the mob changed.

"Well." Said the Simian slowly. "We never want to deny the Military its due, as long as justice is done." he said slowly.

"Don't worry. I promise justice, and Justice there will be. return to your homes, good Simian citizens, and thank you for your help." Rocar told them.

From the top hatch, Nachtoter watched with tense fascination as the Simians in the rear of the mob turned and shuffled away slowly. Over the next minute, the Simian horde dissipated, only a few casting suspicious backward glances. Only when their numbers shrank to two score, did Nachtoter dismount, seeming to flow into the night's blackness, only to reappear a moment later on the far side of the knot of victims that Rocar still guarded with his presence.

By the time the panther knelt with his field medical kit over the group, the last of the rabble had faded back into the ruined landscape.

When he could detect no more than two Simians within his range, Rocar turned, and padded close into the other group.

Nachtoter looked at his Commandant, unable to speak, but the admiration in his green eyes redoubled in the space of a heartbeat.

One of the masked victims found his last courage to speak up. "If you intend our slaying, at least spare the females, please." He asked simply.

Rocar's answer was to lower his head and nuzzle the brave raccoon gently.

Nachtoter watched with pleasure as shock and then realization overtook the Raccoon! Without saying anything more, Rocar looked at his Panther second.

"Take these "Prisoners" aboard the tracs. See to their wounds, their feeding and their safety.' Rocar ordered sternly.

"Justace. Sir!" Answered Nachtoter, beaming.

"In my own fashion." Rocar replied "Compassion!"

The battle group re-formed into a wedge that floated swiftly back toward their compound. In the lead trac, Nachtoter could sense his commandant's tension The Panther set a huge paw on the massive white shoulder, so that Rocar could feel it. The touch roused a light purr from the preoccupied lion. but Rocar still leaned into the touch ever so slightly!

Rocar did not break his train of thought, nor his concern as he looked toward the rear of the trac. Komar was as good as medics could be, yet the group of raccoons had been so soundly beaten by the mob that he still feared for their lives.

He stepped backward easily along the narrow length of the trac, where its shape was higher and box like. The unfortunate victims each lay on the deck of the trac, at the rear of her wedge shape. Some were splinted, many were bandaged, but to Rocar's relief, none of them was covered over.

Rocar glanced at Komar.

Broken bones, Blunt force trauma. And the pregnant female may loose her kit. The fox answered.

Damn. Rocar growled.

But they should all make it. Komar went on. Without you, they would all be Simian souvenirs. You did real good. Komar reminded him.

Rocar nodded. We'll hold a healing circle as soon as we can.

Good. Komar commented. She needs to be in the infirmary, not on the floor of a trac.

Rocar turned to Nachtoter. Battle speed six to the compound! Rocar thought ordered.

Nachtoter smiled. He's been waiting for this order! He swept his paw across the main inducer controls and the soft hum increased slightly in pitch, and the lead trac sailed ahead at more than six hundred stadia an hour!

Report from the watch, Sir Nachtoter thought at his commandant.Captain of the sentries reports that a party of Military and State officials have demanded entrance to the Compound.

Rocar nodded. He knew why. That would be the delegation from the State Funeral. Admit them with all courtesy, but send to Mariva to watch them closely.

Yes, Praetor! Nachtoter replied smartly.

Formation Battle halt! Rocar ordered. Once they were stopped, Rocar tuned to Komar again. Transfer the wounded into trac four. Rocar ordered.

Komar looked perplexed.

The Simians will be watching me. If we off load wounded from my Trac, they might start thinking. Take number four, and come in the rear gate of the compound. Then post a quarantine on the hospital.

Komar caught on with a smile. Yessir. And thank you.

As soon as trac four was safely on its way, the slightly revised formation hovered slowly toward the compound.

Standing at his command station in the lead trac, a taste of disdain spread thru Rocar's muzzle. Their Simian guests were the traditional government delegation sent to important officers at times of loss. He would have to play the distasteful part of a bereaved son, but he took greater comfort from the fact that it was all to a greater cause.

He felt the Trac halt again, this time before the gates of the compound. The challenge was answered correctly and the formation drifted back into the camp. Rocar was not even tensed to spring out before he saw four somberly attired figures march toward the Trac. For a fleeting moment, he toyed with the idea of a cannon misfire in their general direction, but then thought better of it.

Besides, he thought to himself. even martinets like these could be useful at times, if one had the wits that they lacked.

He finished his dismount with a flowing movement calculated to impress them. The other Tracs hovered past him silently headed for their bunkers as the first of them strode up and passed his upturned paw horizontally across his breastplate. Rocar knew this Simian. Min Tei was the military commander of what used to be the Nexis. Once more, the word martinet passed over Rocar's thoughts as the white lion Raised a forepaw and passed it in front of the Simian officer, moving it in the opposite direction from the Simian paw. The salute returned, Rocar waited as the ornately armored Simian dignitary took a small scroll from his belt. It was edged in black, and tied with a red cord.

The Simian undid the ceremonial knot as ritual proscribed, unrolled the scroll between his hands, and in a mechanical voice, devoid of any true emotion, the Simian began his recitation.

Praetor Rocar, on behalf of the entire military as a brotherhood, we come as soldiers to express my sorrow at your loss, and to place at your disposal on this occasion the full resources of the State, in this our mutual hour of bereavement.

Thank you. Rocar said simply.

May I present our delegation? The Simian said as Rocar fell in beside him and both walked toward the center of the compound. I am sure you know most of them, and they in turn know you.

Rocar smiled to himself at the irony in the statement. Of course, it is an honor. He replied simply.

Chief of the War council, Tribune Kai Minn.

My deepest condolences Praetor Rocar. The large Simian said as Rocar met the tribune's gaze. Rocar said nothing. He simply nodded. The Simian was technically a ranking officer, but by Tradition and Training, Rocar was senior in respect, if not station.

The Warrior cat noticed a weakness in the Simian eyes. It was well, for if it came to a fight, Kai Minn would be Rocar's opponent in the field.

Shan Kar, Head of Internal Security.

Rocar fought and won a thought long battle to keep from simply smashing the slight Simian where he stood as the State's chief spy looked at Rocar with suspicion in his eyes. Rocar said nothing, and simply walked on.

And Your Brother Praetor, Ku Min Li.

Here was a different set of eyes. Simian to be sure, but lit with a soft and genuine sorrow, and beyond that, another more different spark. My Humbled heat is sad with your loss, my Brother warrior. Ku Min Li said gently.

I thank you, My Brother. Rocar said with a bow.

We ask to stand with you in your hour of loss, if you will permit. The messenger asked.

It would be an honor. Rocar replied swiftly. He could have refused, and they would have been required to depart, but Rocar knew it is often best to keep the opposition within sight. With your permission, I shall turn out and assemble my command. Rocar asked. They too have elected to stand with me. Rocar explained.

As one body? The messenger asked.

Rocar nodded.

Impressive. You may do as you will. The Simian replied. We are at your disposal today.

Quietly, the large building filled to its capacity and beyond. Lines of Simians four deep stretched four times around the building. Any who entered walked past the ceremonial guards that stood on both sides of the vault like doors. The building itself was a poor substitute for the ruined capital and its vast rotunda, but the long, low armory building had room enough for the solemn row of seven caskets, and the mountain of tribute and offerings stacked before all of them. Behind each simple wooden box was a portrait, in shades of gray and bordered in black. They had been done quickly and flatly, so that they bore little resemblance to the departed.

The casket on the end was different. Rather than wood, its bronze and copper alloy glowed warmly, even under the garish light. It had it's separate mound of offerings, and a wall of tribute ribbons that nearly obscured the casket. and Rather than any half hearted picture, this image was rich in colour, and both its subject and composition was a part of K'al'i'tai history. The great throngs of Simians filled all the space the building could offer and more, the crowds becoming so packed that they leaned on each other, rather than stand by themselves. After two hours, Simian troops in ceremonial armor gently but firmly sealed the building, leaving one hundred thronged outside for every one inside.

Inside, a somber silence fell. A double cordon of soldiers, in gleaming armor entered to a somber march, and with the precision of the music formed a ring around the row of caskets. Once they stood to post, another, smaller group entered the armory thru a double set of doors behind the row of caskets. The Simian who led the smaller delegation was resplendent in subdued gray armor, while his flowing black cape made his required statement of mourning. While the others with him were seated, the gray armor and black cape walked up to a hastily built pulpit.

As some in the throng wept, he spoke.

"Fellow Citizens." He began soberly. 'This is a day of deep sadness and great loss of all of the Homeworld. Senseless violence and terror have taken these heroes from us, heroes whose hearts and minds were dedicated to the State."

As he watched the broadcast images the wall of the command center, Shomron looked over at Shalimar. The elder lion's muzzle was a twisted mask of utter disgust.

"But for one among this company of patriots, All of us feel a unique sense of loss. He was the first of us to walk upon another world, during the great era of science and discovery. He was later a member of government, but his service to the State did not stop there. He served us all as Science Advisor, right up to the moment he was torn from us by a violent act of criminality. I speak of Shalimar. Our national hero." The Simian speaker paused his deep voice choked off by emotion.

"Scatology!" Shalimar snarled under his breath. Shamir leaned over and nuzzled his father gently.

"My friends. and fellow countrymen." The Simian began again. "As Commander of your Armed forces, I come here today to mourn with the people as a whole. But I also make you a promise, in the name of our fallen hero. Those responsible for this act of sedition shall not escape the justice of the wrath and anger that is kin to your sorrow. Your Army has been hard at work to bring these barbarous criminals to the block of justace. And in the presence of these heroes, I charge all our citizens as deputies in this righteous cause."

The somber crowd gave new attention to the orating Simian general.

"For I can now tell you what we have discovered. We know at last who is responsible for these acts and the other acts of brutality and destruction that have been forced upon our peaceful citizenry. But, I am a simple soldier and servant to the State, in this Time of danger. It is not my place to govern. Rather, I shall ask that the government you have elected join with your Military in this cause for the populace."

The Simian paused, and the cordon of soldiers around the edge of the room parted to permit the opening of another large set of doors. The room fell silent, and then an awed whisper spread from the back of the crowd to the front. That same crowd parted to make a path for a figure swathed in bandages, his head heavily wrapped, above a pair of glassy eyes that showed an emotionless fixed stare. he was borne in on a litter, upheld by four Simian soldiers, who walked him with solemn slowness toward the pulpit beside the General.

As heavily bandaged as he was, there could be no doubt of the invalid's identity. It was Shan Li!

Standing in the rear of the command center, Vladimir and Shomron exchanged worried glances. Crystal's paw slipped into Shomron's and squeezed gently.

The Simian general took the microphone from the pulpit and brought it down toward Shan Li's head. After a moment, a deathly quiet whisper filled the building. It was made even colder by the near monotone in which it was spoken.

"Fellow Citizens." Came the deathly whisper. "The Military has uncovered a plot,to overthrow your freedom."

The assembled crowd murmured.

"This vile plan is. Lead by--the Fur-Bearing-- members of the former re--republic."

Shan Li's voice was cut off as the Simian General snatched the microphone away again.

"There is the proof, and the truth, my Loyal citizens terrible and awful truth that has tried to rip our hearts out this day."

As Rocar watched the images, standing in the front rank of his command on the parade ground of their compound. the warrior cat fumed to himself that ripping out lying hearts might not be a bad idea!

The Command Center sank into a sullen silence.

Standing with Shomron, Vladimir and Aurora looked at one another. Behind them, Lollo hissgrowled. Krista patted her Mate's arm, feeling her own neck fur rising. On the other side of him, Shomron could feel the anger and sense of betrayal that made Crystal tremble in profound rage and sadness. She put her head next to Shomron's ear. I wish I were blind again. she hissed, with overwhelming sorrow and bitterness in her closed throat.

Shamir felt anger well up behind his eyes. He had expected a lie, for that is all he could expect. But the context of this one made it all the more sinister. Beside him, Shamir heard another sound absent from his ears and memory for too long.

Shalimar growled!

My Fellow Citizens. The Simian leader continued gravely. We are in the shadow of an evil from our past. he told the gathered Simians. The corruption and deceit of the Republic has sprouted again, like a poisonous weed into our garden. It should be uprooted and cast away, roots and all, once and for all.

From the assembly came sounds of shock, and then agreement, as the pitch of the oration rose.

Your military will not leave you unprotected. In the name of these heroes fallen in the service of the State they loved, and which loved them, I call for action by the great majority of our citizens, for the good of the State. I call upon Simians across the populace to join with your military in a great crusade to exterminate these traitors for all time!

From what was a dignified assembly there rose raucous Simian screams, and a great wall of din as armored gauntlets struck breastplates, and the stomping of countless armored boots rang from the floor of the armory building.

Rocar did not stir from his place in the fore rank. Rather he simply touched the mind next to his as the cadre of Simian Officers who had come to visit stood by in oblivious silence.

Nachtoter

Sir?

I need you and Slasher to take over the special guard detail. As soon as we're dismissed.

A Pleasure, Sir The black panther sent in response.

Nachtoter?

Yes, Rocar?

You are authorized to defend yourselves and anyone else who may require your assistance. Understood?

Thank You, My Friend! Nachtoter thought back, with just a hint of a purr in his thoughts!

Vladimir broke the paul of silence in the underground room. Turn off the feed. If I need nitrogen, I can make it myself.

Shomron complied gladly, for he knew that there was far too much to do and too quickly.

I want guards placed around all former members of the Khai in the underground. Shomron ordered. Send members to all former officials that we haven't been able to contact. Bring them in, if they wish to come. Shomron added.

Right! Vladimir responded

Double all watches, and Tunnel guards. All members should move by twos at least.

Yessir! Dasher snapped. He didn't have his pips yet, on the outside, at least, but this was no time to worry about deportment. Sidearms? He inquired.

Stunners to all officers and enlisted. Force level two only. Shomron answered.

Suggest Officers Call, Shomron, since we are all within range. Vladimir offered.

Shomron nodded. Ten minutes, here.

Then Shomron turned to Crystal. Darling, could I ask you to join us at the meeting? The male Cheetah asked his intended. You may be able to help us. He added.

Gladly! She purred, nearly overwhelmed once again by the certainty of the trust that Shomron had gambled on her. Anything I can do. That's what I do. She answered.

They shared a quick embrace, and then the command center dissolved into the well ordered chaos that was standard operating procedure.

The funeral service was silent again following the official eulogy, and to the beat of muffled drums and slow dirges, each of the caskets was borne out of the Armory, until only the copper one remained, bedecked as it was with ribbons. Four Simians in full armor and weapons mounted guard at the corners of the casket while four more made their measured way into the Armory. The copper casket was so large that it required a full cohort of Simians to carry it from the building. Is it passed with difficulty up the long aisle, again those assembled wept when they were supposed to, and then the entire company followed it in order proscribed by station. Outside the armory, the copper box was placed on it's own gun carriage, hauled by hands of a gun crew in full armor, while the other caisson bearing the other caskets followed at respectful distance. The long lines of crowds walked along behind, as the precession drew nearer the monument site.

The images of the ceremony stopped, and were replaced by an image of the Simian Military Seal. Within the compound, a hand picked cohort of Simians that had accompanied the delegation stood abreast and drew their huge broad-edged blades, raising them so they met at the tips with a great loud clashing of metal. This noise of war was mixed with a great shout. The battle salute was repeated three times, quickly, with the same shout raised by the entire command.

Rocar found himself nearly as moved by the shared shout of his command, for he knew that the warriors he led raised their single voice in a tribute that meant something far from mourning.

Shantal waited a lifetime it seemed, and then another as the foxish ball of tension was rooted to the spot where she had been told to stand just before the cloaked figure that led her vanished from her sight and senses within the darkened room.

Then she felt someone else in the room with her.

Who are you, and what do you need? the other presence thought at Shantal.

Locmar sent me. Simian troops took all our medical supplies. He is tending to wounded in the park just outside of the Nexis. Shantal thought in response.

Lights snapped on, gentle and soft from overhead. Across the room, a tall lapine nurse in a uniform smiled at her. My name is Amber. I'm chief of the nursing staff The female rabbit kept the introductions short. She could feel the bow wave of tension coming from the vixen.

I know Locmar well. She said. He was chief of staff at the hospital where I interned. I'm glad he made it all right. she offered.

All right is relative. The Simians threatened to kill the wounded unless he surrendered the medical supplies. We have two hundred wounded, and we need help.

Amber nodded. We'll get help to Locmar, and your mate too.

Shantal could not hide her surprise.

Yes, we have been watching the Simians, too. But we couldn't risk confronting so many of them with so many wounded nearby. We were waiting for a message. Now we have it. Amber explained. As soon as the Simian force has moved on, we plan to evacuate the park. Amber added.

Where to? Down here? The vixen asked.

The female rabbit nodded. She reached out and took Shantal's paw gently. Come along. I'll take you to a room where you can rest and wait. You look all in.

How long will it take? We left our son with friends. Shantal asked.

Give me a message for them. We'll send a messenger to them too, tho it may take a while.

Amber took Shantal's send, and passed it on to the communications center. By the time Shantal was enjoying a warm meal, a runner was headed for the outskirts of the Nexis.