"Like...Like a scream!" Bombalurina saw the confused expression on Jemimia's face. "Maybe I'm just going crazy, but..."

"It sounded....Something like Demeter....But that's crazy, I know.....Have you seen Munkus lately?"

"I haven't seen him, either.....You know what?"

"I'm going to see him! He may hate me because of Demeter, but..." She gave a mischievous grin, "I've still got my feminine charm, haven't I?"

Bomba stood up, and slunk over to Munkustrap's den. "Oh, Munkus!" She crooned.

Bomba smiled and slipped into the den. She glanced around. The normaly tidy den was in disarray. Tin cans, and paper cups lay strewn across the floor. A lamp shade lay cockeyed on a coathanger. A large pillow was set in the middle of the den. Munkus was perched there, his fur dirty and matted. "Well.....This looks....Cozy!" Bombalurina said, in an attempt to break the silence.

Seeing him so sad nearly tore Bomba apart. She lowered her voice, "Munkus....I know how you feel. She's my sister!"

"Oh, Everlasting Cat, Munkus, please don't cry!" Bomba said, kneeling down to put a paw on his arm. "You're a wonderful protector. Even if you had gotten there in time, nobody could have stopped Macavity. Demeter's a strong Queen. She'll find her way out of there."

"It's okay. We will get her back. But we need a plan first. We need to consult with Old Duetaronmy."

Bomba smiled. "Did you really think I would let you go alone?" She thought for a moment, then continued, "I'm pretty sure that Alonzo is with Cassandra. Those two are crazy about each other!"

Nodding to her, "you're probably right about that, still...I need to see him before we go." Munkus had been cleaning himself a little and presented himself to Bombalurina for inspection. "Presentable?"

He was glad that she was finaly being serious. After hearing that he looked fine, he smiled and started to exit his den. Looking back to Bomby, "Do you have any idea where Alonzo and Cassandra might be?" He then stepped aside and allowed her to exit as well. "You lead the way and I'll follow. You know the old saying. Ladies first."

he was following her when he noticed Bomb stop cold and let out a scream. "What is it?" He moved closer to her trying to see what it is that caused her to panic.

Munkus looked to where she was pointing. He bent down and picked it up. "BUt how did it get here? Where is she?" He looked around to see if she was near. "Demeter!!!"

He turned back to Bomby and took a look at the tuft of fur in her paw. "Is that her's?"

Munkus was trying to assertain the origin of the fur tuft in Bomby's paw when he hears Alonzo's voice from behind. He turns and hears his friend. "I...Im good..I guess."

Alonzo was glad to see Munkustrap out and about agagin. He was worried for his friend since Demeter had disappeared. He noticed Bombalurina as she smiled. "Hey Red. You're looking good." Alonzo noticed that they had something between them. "Whats going on Stripes?"

Munkustrap had exited the junkyard in kindof a hurry. He was getting his emotions in order when he heard Bomby's voice. He stopped and turned to face her. His eyes were full of emotion. Shaking his head, he answered. "I dont really know. We'll tell him whats happened and whatever he says, we'll do. He is leader still." Munkus held his head low as he continued.

Cassandra streched out her whole body in the empty space that Alonzo had left. "What is it, Alonz?" She flicked her tail towards the black and white Tom.

Munkustrap was thinking about what he would say to his father when Bomby decided to lead the way. He noticed the way she moved and this caused him to think of Demeter. A tear rolled down his furry cheek. He tried to think of something else but it didnt work. He paused in his tracks. "Bombalurina, whats going on with you an dmy brother? I hardly ever see you two together anymore." He was attempting to get his mind off of Demeter with this line of questioning.

He could tell that she was going through her own turmoil. He came closer to her and put a concerned paw on her shoulder. "Bomby...you can tell me. You know that...right?"

He saw her burst into tears as she tried to explain what was bothering her. He pulled her close and held her tight as she mentioned kittens. he thought to himself that he never had any idea. "Bomby...I had no idea. He never said....You should have...." He couldnt finish a thought when she was upset. So he just let her cry and just held her and would until she was ready to continue.

Munkus felt her pull away and start walking away. He knew that she was trying to be strong and not show him weakness. The same that he had done. The two were more alike than they would ever admit and he realized that when she was ready, she would confide more with him.

So he fell into step behind her and continued on. After a little bit he had a nagging urge to speak to her again. "Bomby...I want you to..." He was having trouble with how to word his request. "I need you to tell me everything."

Munkustrap made eye contact with the red queen and listened to her. He nodded and then spoke. "They were his werent they?" He would know the answer by her reaction so he left it at that.

He was becoming frustrated with this situation and since she turned away from him, he decided that was enough for him. He fell into step and followed her to his father's den.

Munkus noticed that Bomby had stepped aside as they approached his father's den. He knew what he had to do. He called to the old Jellicle. "Father...I need your council. Do you have a moment?"

Munkus kept his head low even as he gave Bomby a sideways glance. "Well...I have some bad news. Demeter....is....missing."

He looked to his father and saw th enod he was giving. He looked to Bomby and shrugged his shoulders. "Father...you mean to say that you knew? How?"

Munkus was getting frustrated by his father's silence. His eyes were full of anger at not knowing the whereabouts of his mate. "Father...if you know something...please tell me. The not knowing is killing me." Then a single tear welled up and ran down his cheek.

He thought for a second then looked up at his father's face. "Macavity's lair." Munkus' face began to show signs of anger moving across it. He hated the mear mention of his brother's name. "Do you have any ideas?"

He glared at his father. "And why is that out of the question? Its my family at stake here." Munkus turned away from his father's gaze and began to leave but something stopped him. A feeling that was telling him not to go. He looked to Bomby with an expression of confussion. His look was asking her for her advise without words.

He saw her jerk her head in the direction of Macavity's lair but didnt respond. He was waiting for his father to answer his question. He repeated it one more time. "Why...father...is it out of the question? She is my mate and she is carrying my kittens. Tell me why I shouldnt be tearing his home apart to get them back."

Munkus turned to see what was causing the crash, and saw teh tom that appeared. He assumed a defensive posture between teh stranger and his father, as was his reflex. "What does my brother want with me?"

Munkustrap moved over to Bomby and whispered into her ear. "Go back to the Junkyard and find Misto. I might need his help." Then Munkus looked to his father an dcould only nod before turning to follow the stranger. "Lead on." He turned one more time to Bomby, giving her a reassuring smile before turning to leave.

"DEMETER!!!" Bomba cried. Her sister, and Munkus were standing at the edge of the Junkyard. Demeter looked close to tears and Munkus...She couldn't decipher his face.

Alonzo appeared from his den and saw Demeter and Munkustrap. He couldnt believe his eyes. His friend was banged up pretty badly, but he was here. "Munkus...is that you?"

Misto stepped out of Alonzo's den to see Munkus and Demeter standing at the edge of the junkyard. He ran to them behind Alonzo and went over to Munkus as he dropped to the ground. "Are you okay?" He then looked around and called out. "Someone bring water for them."

Munkus caught his breath and stood up. He saw that Demeter was still, in her mind at least, a prisoner of Macavity. he didnt know what to say or do to ease her fears. He moved close to her and slowly placed his paw on her shoulder. "Demeter. You can relax now. You are home." He paused for a second before continuing. "We can be a family now. If you want?"

Munkus' heart rose into his throat as she put her arms around him. She was smiling, and this time she meant it. Then she looked as though she were in pain. He heard her say that the kittens were coming. Munkus, in a feat of adrenaline, picked her up in his arms and carried her towards Jenny's den. He called back to Bomby and Misto. "Run ahead of me and wake Jenny. The kittens are on their way."

Alonzo looked at Cass and smiled. Then his face went blank. "Did she just say the kittens were coming?"

Demeter saw everything as a blur around her. She could only think of the pain clearly. They were coming fast.

Jenny sat lazily in her den. A few hours of chaseing around Pouncival and Tumblebrutus could tire a cat out. Then she heard shouts and Munkus, Demeter, Alonzo, Cassandra and Bomba burst into the den. One look at Demeter and she knew. "Get her on the table she said urgently "Hurry!"

Alonzo stayed back so not to get in the way. He was happy for his friends and was there for them. "Jenny is there anything I can do to help?"

Everyone hustled about her. She wished for her labor to be over.

Hours later Demeter cradled 3 kittens in her arms. The first was a mail silver tabby, just like Munkus. The second was a girl like Demeter, yellow and black. The last was another little female who bore some resemblence to her aunt Bomba but also had black markings on her body.

Alonzo had gotten the towels for Jenny as instructed. He couldnt believe that his best friend was now a father. He could see the pride in Munkus' eyes as Demeter held their kittens. He was thinking that he couldnt wait until he and Cass would have kittens of their own. He looked at her and smiled.

Misto entered behind Bomby and couldnt believe his eyes. There were three little kits in Demeter's arms. He smiled to her and his friend Munkustrap. "Congrats my friend. You must be proud."

Alonzo was happy for the couple. He decided to slip out, but before he left he whispered to Cassandra. "Im going to the Vickerage Wall to tell Old D the good news. Ill be back later." Then he left, disappearing into the darkness.

Munkus was happy to have his family back home and safe. He looked up just as Bomby was exiting the den. He looked back to Demeter. He reached down and picked up his son and looked him over. He looked just like his father. "Dem...have you chosen names for them yet? If you dont mind...I want him to be called Berlioz." he smiled as he placed his son back in Dem's arms. "I cant believe that we made it home in time. I am truly happy." He leaned close and kissed her on the cheek and then sat back down by her side and began tending to his injuries. They were hurting now, since he came down off his adrenaline rush.

Demeter smiled at Munkus. "That's a perfect name for the boy. I myself want this one..." she picked the older girl who looked just like her to be named Silabub and this one" she set Silabub down and picked the little red and black girl "To be named Mistieana".

"Wonderful! I've never felt so happy in my life!" Her smile was radient as the sun. She set Mistieana down on the ground so that she could take her first steps. The kittens learned quickly. Soon all three were walking around the den. In the midst of her happiness a dark cloud broke through. What would Macavity do when he found out?

"Heavy side!" Demeter cried. She pointed at the kitten. "She's opened her eyes! She can see already!"

Munkus looked in the direction that Demeter was pointing. Mistieana was gazing into the darkness at something. Munkus moved over to her and knealt down and looked in the same direction. His eyes couldnt see anything, but he knew that maybe she shared her mother's ability to sense evil. Munkus looked back to Dem and shrugged. "I dont see anything."

Munkus didnt know how to react to her statement. He looked her in the eyes and smiled. "I promise you that they will never leave my sight." With that said, he watched Berlioz as he slowly moved about the den. His little paws carefully feeling everything around hm before placing each step. Munkus moved close and watched in amazment. Just then he saw the first glint of his son's eyes. "Demeter...he's opened his eyes as well."

Munkus watched as Berlioz made his way over to his aw and sat there staring up at him. Berlioz looked as if he saw a giant. Munkus layed down next to his son and pulled him close. "My boy...you have your mother's eyes." Munkus raised his paw a bit and watched as Berlioz began to play, swatting and jumping. All the time keeping his eyes on the girls.

(One year later...The Jellicle Ball)

Demeterled her three kittens to the center of the junkyard and set them on the tire. "Stay here you three. I'm going to fetch your father. She ran off.

Berlioz was playing with his sister Silabub on the tire. He pounced on her and then jumped back off. "Tag you're it...Sila."

Mistieana looked at him her head cocked. "Mistieana" she answered "Who are you. "She knew who he was but she was playing ignorant like other kittens.

Berlioz was still playing with his sister when he stops cold and looks around. "Did you hear that?" He looked around again. "Hey! Where is Misti?"

Mistieana jumpped back suprised by Bomba. "I'm fine Bomba really!" Macavity looked amused but never took his gaze off Mistieana.

"Demeter is my mother" Mistieana answered boldly for her aunt. She didn't see why Macavity would care.

Mistieana backed up a little. "Getting ready for the ball." She straightened up. "Why do you ask. Macavity was getting closer to her.

"Oh there letting me go. I just have to stay in the junkyard clearing." She dipped her head. "Which I'm not exactly doning right now." Then she looked up at the ginger cat. "Wait... why are you here." Macaity was behind her now.

Bomba scanned the small corner and gave Mistieana a push. "Go back to the tire." She whispered.

He had vanished from where he had confronted the lovely crimson queen and the intriging young queen. He was out of sight but seemed to be unable to shake this new queen's senses. He remained out of sight but had to speak to her. he made his voice seem to come from all around so she couldnt pinpoint his location. "So...you can sense me huh? Why is that...I wonder?"

Silabub stood up. "I... I don't think momma would want us to wander off too. Lets wait for her."

He looked to his sister and nodded. "I guess you're right. We should wait. I just hope she gets back before momma and papa get here."

Mistieana grinned slightly. "No clue" Would you like me to run away screaming at the top of my lungs?"

Mistieana nodded. "Yes. I wouldn't miss it. Even if my parents didn't let me participate I would find away to watch from the sidelines." She sighed and lay her head on he paws. "My parents are always so cautious around me. It's like they think I'll break if thy let me alone. It's like they think that I can't take care of my self. Why?" She looked at Macavity who had a sly grin plastered on his face. "You know why. Tell me." She wanted to know what her parents feared.

He had been caught off guard by her question. "Maybe its because they care. They are your parents are they not?" He came closer to her but staying near the shadows. "Its because of me. Your father and I fought for your mother's affection. He won and now he's your father. I will always care for your mother, but he has her heart." Macavity had never confided in anyone like this. It felt strange but comfortable at the same time. "You had better get back to teh others. If you need me...call and I will come. I promise."

Macavity was caught off guard by the young queen's comment. This brought a smile to his face. He felt a warmth in his heart and didnt know what to say. So he said nothing and turned into the shadows and disappeared.

Macavity had put himself behind Mistieana so he could keep her father in front of him. Macavity raised one of his hands from her shoulders and held it up. "Easy now brother. I dont want to harm anyone."

Munkustrap was enjoying the ball with all his friends when he saw the red flash and there behind his daughter was the one cat he didnt want to see. He quickly put himself between teh Jellicles and the Ginger cat, assuming a defensive stance. "What do you want here Macavity? Get away from my daughter...NOW!!!"

Silabub paled when she saw Macavity right behind her sister.

Macavity returned his paw to Misti's shoulder and gave it a light squeeze. He looked at Munkus and smiled. "Easy. I wouldnt harm her. You should know this brother. I just want to enjoy the ball as a Jellicle. Thats all." He raised his hands, keeping them where they could see them. He backed away from Misti slowly and then in a blink of an eye, he appeared on the trunk of the ar, laying on his side. "Besides...I havent shown any aggression here. It is you who have assumed an aggressive posture."

Berlioz watched Macavity back away from his sister, causing him to ease up and move over next to his mother. "Mom...whats he doing here?"

Mistieana stiffled a laugh. Tugger would be afraid and hideing. She strongly disliked her uncle and his flirtatious movements.

Munkus let his head drop and was thinking of what to do. He lifted his eyes to his brother. "You know it isnt up to me. Its up to the old man. And as far as Tugger goes. He is around here somewhere." Munkus looked to Demeter and saw his son by her side, but her eyes were locked on Mac. He whispered to her. "Easy Dem, we dont want him to hurt Misti by provoking him." He turned back to his brother."Whats in it for you? You dont do anything unless there is something in it for you."

Berlioz was listening to the conversation and when Macavity said family, he stood up. "Mother...I thought you said he was evil. He doesnt seem so to me."

Mistieana smiled back radiently. She had always known he wasn't evil.

Not waiting for Demeter to lash out at Mistieana, spoke up. "Well...not in so many words, but in passing...yes." He looked into Demeter's firey eyes and smiled innocently. "It was by accident. I assure you. She just happened upon me."

Berlioz ended up standing next to his friend and mentor, Alonzo. The two had been spending alot of time together and were good friends. Alonzo had been teaching him to fight and protect himself. So Berlioz felt safe near him. He leaned close and spoke. "What is he up too...Zo?"

After hearing this, berlioz felt a pride inside for his father. He wanted to be like him when he was older. He stayed focused on the older Jellicles and how they reacted to the conversation. He didnt have a good feeling about the situation.

Mistieana backed away from her mothers sudden ferosity and closer to Macavity. "Mom, I'm fine. He hasn't done anything."

Berlioz was angered by his sister's behavior. "Mistieana...what are you doing? You know that he cant be trusted."

Alonzo nodded and turned to exit the junkyard. He was on a mission to retrieve Old D for Munkus. In this he would not fail.

He didnt like the way his sister spoke to him and began to close the gap between them. "Yeah...and sometimes...they are right. You dont see him denying any of it. Do you?"

Macavity listened as Misti defended him against her brother. He was gladdened and saddened by this gesture. He looked her in the eyes and spoke. "My dear Mistieana. I cant deny any of what has been spoken. I can say, without a doubt, that I dont regret coming here tonight." He turned to his brother and spoke. "Munkustrap...I didnt know what would happen tonight. I didnt even plan on talking to any of you at all. Ever since you took Demeter from me, I havnt thought about anything else. I wanted to see her kittens with my own eyes and now I have. I did mean what I said, that I want to come home." He sat back down and wiped at his eyes. He had tears falling from eyes that had only ever teared up around Demeter herself.

Mistieana was a bit shocked to see Macavity cry. She bit her lip and looked at him saddened by his past.

Munkus couldnt believe his eyes. His brother was crying. "Macavity...I do believe that you wouldnt hurt my children or Demeter. Until father arrives...you are welcome to stay. But know this. We will be keeping an eye on you." Munkus turned to the Jellicles and spoke, raising his arms. "Let the ball continue. The choice has yet to be made for who is to return to the Heavy-side layer."

Macavity looked on his nephew and smiled. "Yes you may." A sense of pride welled up inside him. He had a family again.

Munkus saw Tugger making his appearance and then notice Macavity's presence. He moved over to him and stood in between them. "Tugger...take it easy. I dont want him hurting you."

"I can't belive this" Zazor snorted. He's gone from bad to worse. I never knew he was such a weakling.

Suddenly it dawned on Zazor. He grinned mischieviously. "If Macavity won't take charge then who will?" He turned to Bonconlo. "I'm feeling a change in the winds. I think old Mac is losing his touch. New leadership is in order. How about we have some fun tonight Bon?"

Mistieana sniffed the air. Something wasn't right. She senced evil but not coming from Macavity. It was an unfamiler sence. Suddenly a paw shot from the darkness and grabbed Mistieana. One paw wrapped around her cheast and a claw pressed hard to her throat.

"Who would take my daughter and why?" He asked as calmly as he could. He looked around to make sure no one was easdropping. "What am I gonna tell Demeter? She'll flip and you know she'll blame you."

Munkustrap returned to his spot on the tire and kept an eye on his other children. He motioned for them to move closer to him and they obeyed. He tried to keep as friendly an expression as he could, but his mind was and heart were racing over this event. He knew that he wouldnt be able to keep it from Demeter for long. (Hurry Macavity, you dont have much time.)

Mistieana trembled against this new enemy. Her whole body was rigid with fear. "What do you want." Mistieana whispered trying to keep her voice from shaking.

Mistieana raised her eyebrows. "So you kidnap helpless kittens when you're bored? I can't say I like your taste in fun." She heard Zazor chuckle.

Mistieana was being carried away by two strange cats. She din't know where or why. She struggled against Zazor's grip but it held firm.

Macavity's first thought was to check his old lair. When he got there, he found it empty. He decided to return to teh Junkyard.

After a little bit, he arrived back at the junkyard and trying to cathch his breath, he stopped the ball. "Munkus, I need your help. She's not there."

Berlioz noticed his uncle running into the clearing and then falling to his knees. He ran to Mac's side. "Are you okay? Who's missing?"

He defied his uncle and stayed stoic in his resolve. "You dont want to do this Tugger. Take advantage of a handicapped cat. Im not moving. You'll have to go through me."

Bomba quickly side-stepped Berlioz and stood directly in front of Tugger. "Leave him alone." She said in a dangerously low voice. "Or I'll rip you limb from limb."

Macavity was listening to them argue and he saw Tugger feeling brave. Mac put his paw on Berlioz's shoulder and pulled himself to his feet. "Thank you Berlioz, but I can handle it from here." He stepped past his nephew and stopped next to Bomba and nodded to her. "So Tug...you were going to attack a female and your nephew to get to me huh? Well how about now that I am on my feet again?"

Munkus watched the situation around Macavity and was glad that it fizzled out before anyone got hurt. He walked over to him and Bomby. "Do you think you could find my daughter? The two of you?" He glanced back to the rest of his family and then turned back. "I have to stay here and perform my duty and protect whats left of my family. Please?"

Macavity was hesitant to answer due to the fact that Demeter didnt trust him yet. "Its up to your parents, but having you would help if what you say is true." He looked to Bomby and spoke. "What do you think?"

Demeter crept twoards her sister. "Watch out for Berlioz." Then she turned to Macavity. "If anything happens to him I'll hold yo responsible." She started to turn away but then did something that sh didn't excpect her self to do. She kissed him lightly on the cheek. "Find Mistieana" she whispered then she backed twoards Munkus.

Macavity nodded to Demeter and when she kissed him, he looked to Munkus and then turned around laking his way for the exit. He had alot running through his mind as where to begin looking for the young queen.

Munkus watched as Demeter said something to Macavity and then kissed him on the cheek. This made the fur on the back of his neck stand. He moved over to his son and spoke to him. "Berlioz, you take care of Bomby for me." He saw his son smile and then head off after Macavity. Munkus leaned in to Bomby and whispered in her ear. "Good luck Red. Be careful and please bring both of my children back with you." He turned to walk away but back to her and whispered again. "Maybe this adventure will be good for you both." After speaking to her, he turned and moved over to Silabub and stood behind her and placed his strong paws on her shoulders and watched them leave. (Please be careful and come back soon.)

Macavity had gotten far enough ahead that he felt it prudent to stop and wait. He turned back and watched as his nephew came running up to him. He saw Bomby wiping her eyes and this made him wonder what was wrong. He looked to Berlioz. "Wait here. I need to speak to your aunt for a sacond." His nephew nodded and then Macavity and then moved over to the lovely crimson queen. With his uncanny ability to appear any place in a second, he appeared right behind her and whispered in her ear. "Something bothering you? You know...beautiful queens should never cry. Want to talk about it?" He walked next to her and looked at her with a sincere smile on his face.

Munkus looked to Cassandra and motioned her over. He leaned close to her ear. "Any sign of Alonzo yet?" Munkus knew that she would find her mate and then he glanced to Demeter. "Have you accepted Macavity? It takes a lot of trust for you to allow him to take your son to find your daughter...you know?"

As Bomby tried to walk away, he noticed her step on her tail and stumble. He quickly extended his paws and caught her in his arms, pulling her close. He also noticed the look embarrassment. This brought a smile to his face. "Careful. I have you." As he held the crimson queen in his arms, he feels a strange sensation that he had only felt near Demeter. He liked how this felt.

Bomba smiled and giggled softly. She was blushing so hard, even her white patches were red.

Bomba nodded and followed him back towrads Berlioz.

Macavity saw the tear run down his nephew's cheek and smiled. "Berlioz. Relax...let it come to you." He saw his nephew relax and focus. "Thats it...now let your nose guide you." Berlioz closed his eyes and then started catching the smell of the air currents when his eyes jolted open and he faced towards a dark street. Macavity looked to Bomby and couldnt hide his disapproval. "You know it would have to that street."

Munkus was seated on his customary tire when his friend and father came into view. He stood and walked to meet them. He ignored his friend and directed his attention to his father. "Father...Im sure Alonzo filled you in on what has happened. We now have another problem. My daughter, Mistieana has been catnapped by unknown entities. Macavity, Bombalurina and Berlioz have gone out to find her. We could really use your wisdom right about now."

Tugger waved his paw to Alonzo as if to say that he didnt have any respect for him and turned and walked away. With his entourage in tow.

Munkus didnt give Tugger a second thought and he and Alonzo listened to his father as he spoke. Munkus shrugged and then spoke. "So...you werent surprised by his change of heart? Do you think he can find my daughter and bring her back?"

Munkus looked to his daughter and smiled for her. He nodded and spoke. "What does your heart tell you? Mine tells me that she will be just fine and back with us soon." He looked from his father to Demeter. He gave her a half-hearted smile. (Hurry Bomba...be safe.)

Munkus extended his paw to Demeter and beckoned her to his side. He didnt want to leave Silabub in her state. His world was balacing on a razor's edge. His only hope was on the brother that he grew up resenting and now hoped could create a miracle. He looked to his daughter and gently squeezed her against his side. "Im not going anywhere and you are going to be safe." He looked to his father and asked. "Have you made the choice? Who will be going to the Heavyside Layer? I believe that this ball should be ended and everyone should get some rest." He paused and then spoke again. "Father?"

Munkus saw his father staring to the heavens. This worried him greatly. He had a bad feeling about this. "You dont mean...its not your time...yet."

Old D. slowly heaved himself to his feet. This took a great deal more energy then normal. "Come, my children." He whispered, spreading his arms towards Tugger and Munkus. "My time is drawing near, but I have one last request. I want to see all of my sons together before I depart."

Demeter was thunderstruck. "L-leaving? But that means that Munkus..." she trailed off. She always knew that Munkus would one day take over for his father but she never imagined the moment.

Munkustrap didnt like what his brother was saying or doing. "Dont turn your back on me. He is as much your brother as he is mine. Who's the bigger fool? One who forgives or one who denies any at all?" Munkus wanted to pounce on his brother but found a new restraint inside himself. He looked to his daughter and smiled to her. "If Macavity says he can do it, then I trust that he can. It was my choice to make. Not yours. I dont even think you could fathom the situation." He was putting alot of anger in his voice as he spoke.

Munkus didnt make any moves to prevent his brother from grabbing him. He just looked him in the eyes and didnt show any emotion. "Say what you will to deal with your own sins. I wont be your reality cushion any longer. You are gonna have to deal with your own ghosts...alone."

Electra prodded at Tugger's leg. For the first time in years, his hips were still. It scared the Jellicle right out of her.

Munkus knew that he hurt his brother, but knew it had to be done. He moved closer to his father and placed his paw in his father's. "How long do we have father?"

Munkus looked to Demeter, a tear running down his cheek and shook his head. He then looked to Silabub and motioned her over. "Sila...you might want to spend a little time with your grandfather, while you can." That was one of the hardest things he had ever said, especially to his family.

Munkus stepped back as his daughter entertained his father and moved over to Demeter. He took her in his arms and held her tight. He pulled back and with a tear in his eye, smiled as real a smile as he could manage. "I dont know if Im ready for this. Ill need you there by my side...you know that right?" He focused his emerald green eyes on hers and hoped that she would support him. He really needed it right now. He glanced over to Tugger who was still sulking on th etire in his entourage of queens. (I just hope Macavity can do what he said he would.)

Shaking off the fears of what fate her daughter would face. Demeter looked into Munkus's eyes and spoke softly. "Munkus...I'll be right there with you. I promise, I will never leave your side as long as I live. You'll be a wonderful leader...I just know it."

Tugger heard his brother as he spoke to Demeter. He had tears in his eyes. (Does he know?) This thought goes through his mind. He stands up and pulls himself away from the queens and walks over to his father. He reaches up and runs his fingers through his nieces fur and smiles. He looked to his father and laced his paw in his open paw. "Father...dont go...I...I need you....here."

Tugger glanced over to Munkus who was standing with Demeter. He smiled and turned back to his father. "I know he will. Its just going to be hard here without you. And with Macavity back, I just dont feel the same."

Tugger listened to his father's advice. "I will try...for you." He moved over to his brother and tapped him on th eshoulder and motioned for him to follow. He left the gathering area and waited for Munkus to arrive.

Tugger was sad and struggling to keep it together. "Munkus...you know what I did...dont you?" He was having trouble making eye contact. "Im not proud of what I did. It was the right thing to do."

Old D. nodded sadly. The pain was growing steadily stronger.

Alonzo brushed himself off and pointed towards the gathering area. "Hurry Berlioz...he needs you."

Munkus turned just as his son landed on him, knocking him to the ground. "Son...where are the others?" He looked to Demeter and a smile formed on his face.

Munkus turned to his father. "Father...they are back. Hang in there just a little longer."

Macavity, with Mistieana in his arms entered the junkyard and saw everyone gathered together around Old Deuteronomy. He walked up to Munkus and handed him his daughter and then looked to his father. "F..f..ather. What is it?"

He smiled and took Macavity's paw. "My son...My time here is coming to an end...I wanted to see all of my sons here together before I left...And now, I have."

"Father...what is my destiny? Where do I belong?" Was all he could think of to ask and could manage to get out.

Macavity didnt know what to say. He was all chiked up and the two of them turned to see Tugger, who was coming over as well. Once he placed his paw in, Macavity leaned over to him and whispered in his ear. "I have a surprise for you. One you never saw coming." Then he turned back to his father, leaving Tugger with an expression of shock.

Macavity looked to his brother before turning and leaning close to her. "The old man is the chosen one. He hasnt much longer to go."

Munkus watched Bomby go to Macavity and the expression on Tugger's face change. This wasnt going to be good. (Dont start anything until he's gone boys...please.)

Bomba stared up into the sky "He...He's gone..." And then, in a rush of sadness, she suddenly buried her face in Macavity's fur, and began to cry.

Berlioz ran to his father and hugged him. Tears running from his eyes. "Father...whats going to happen now?"

Tugger moved away from the group and looked at Munkus with disdain. "So...Oh great one. Who will take your place as protector of the tribe? I dont think you can make a decision without father's help." He had a sarcastic tone to his voice and a look of hate in his eyes.

Macavity looked to Bomby and slipped out of her arms and walked over to his brother, pulling him to the side as the tribe made their way home. He looked around to make sure they were alone. "I cant believe I saw you do that. You cant ever let them see you doubt yourself. Even if you dont have the answer, you must look like you do. You are the leader now and they look to you for answers."

Macavity put his paws on Munkus' shoulders and smiled. "You arent alone...you know? You've got Demeter and your children. You have Bombalurina. I never thought Id ever say this, but Im here for you too. So dont worry, even if you make mistakes, we'll make them together."

Macavity saw the children huddled together and walked over to them. "Well kids, its been a long night huh?" He glanced to their parents and back. "I'll tell you what. You guys can stay with me tonight." He saw them all amile and then he turned to Bombalurina. "Now then...where do I sleep?"

Bomba gave a watery smile. "My den is pretty big, and I don't share with anyone..."

Berlioz turned and laughed. "Yes sir." He looked to Silabub and spoke. "Race ya Sila." He waited for her to get ready and then took off.

Bombalurina walked silently next to Macavity, leading him to her den. Her mind was racing at a million miles a minute. Was her den clean? Were the blankets made? Did her fur look ok? For lack of anything to do or say, she began to fuss with Mistieana's fur, who was walking nearby.

Finally, they reached the dens. Bombs ushered the kittens into their dens and slipped into her own, beckoning Macavity to follow. As she walked into the den, a thought occured to her. She only had one bed! She stopped dead in front of the pile of sheets that served as a bed and blushed. "Uh oh...."

Bomba shook her head. "No! I invited you here. You take the bed and I'll sleep on the floor." She streched and curled up in a corner. "Sleep tight!"

Bomba smiled and allowed him to help her up. "So, what are we going to do? I won't let you sleep on the floor and you won't let me!"

Bomba gave a small smile and gave a small nod. She ran a paw through her fur and slowly made her way over to the pile of blankets. She streched her paws up over her head and extended her claws with a sigh. As she padded down her half of the bed, she happened to glance up at Macavity, who was still staring at her. "Are you coming?"

Berlioz had rousted from his sleep and was wanting to talk with Misti. "Misti...are you asleep? I want to apologize to you for the way I spoke to you earlier. You were right and I should have waited to form an opinion about Macavity." He laid there and waited for her to say 'I told you so'. He just knew it was coming.

Macavity just laid there and gently flexed his paw and masaged her hip. He had closed his eyes and didnt realize that he was even doing it. He wasnt totally asleep. He hadnt fully slept for years. You couldnt living on the streets. But for the first time in a long time, he felt safe.

Bomba lay and listened to Macavity's steady breathing. With every breath, his chest would rise and press softly against her back. The constant contact made her feel safe, secure. She was about to drift off to sleep... Suddenly a thought popped into her head. She sat up and whispered, "Mac! We completely forgot about Zazor!

"

"I suppose you're right." Bomba smiled and rubbed her head against Macavity's. She loved the feeling of his fur entangling in hers. She wanted to be even closer to him. What was that thing that she and Tugger used to do? A kiss! That was it. "Mac..." She whispered softly. "Do you...I mean, would you like to..." Why must her tounge always get tied up at times like this?! She took a deep breath and tried again. "Would you like to kiss me?" Instantly, she blushed a deep shade of scarlet.

Bomba closed her eyes, savoring the feeling of his lips against hers. When she opened them again, she smiled and whispered, "Love me...That's all I want you to do."

Bomba lept up and started babbling incoherently. "Teazer! This isn't what it looks like! Well, it is, but we didn't...Please don't tell Tugger!" She swooped her arms protectivly around Macavity's neck. "If he finds out, he'll kill him!"

"Okay, I promise not to tell him. But you know he is going to find out." She sat down across from them. "He went didn't he."

Macavity was looking into Bomby's eyes and was about to answer her when Teazer busted in. He looked to her and smiled. He was a bit shocked when Bombalurina made Teazer promise to keep it a secret. He looked to her and laughed slightly. "He doesnt scare me. Besides...he has more to deal with than even I can dish out. He has a son with a very large chip on his shoulder. Besides, We are family." His smile was one of confidence. He looked to Teazer and his expression softened. "Yes he did. He appointed Munkus as the new leader. You may want to hang around until tomorrow. He's gonna make an important announcment."

Macavity shook his head. "I havent seen him since I have been back. Sorry Teaz."

Bomba came over and put her paw around Teazer's shoulder. "Mac, I'm gonna talk to Teazer for a moment. I'll be right back!" She smiled sweetly, and led Teazer out of her den. When they were out of earshot, she said, "Teazer, you know you can tell me anything, right? Did something happen with Zazor?"

Bomba furrowed her brow. "Teazer...I don't understand. What do you mean, things just clicked?"

Macavity nodded to Bomby as she exited with Teazer. He was curious as to what was so secretive. So he quietly inched his way across the den and peered out the entrance and saw that they were farther away than he thought. (I could eavesdrop on them but I think Ill let this one go...this time.) He smiled as he turned back around and returned to the bed and sat down. He just stared at the door and thought about the events of the evening.

Teazer tightly hugged Bomby back. "Why can't we just get this over with?" She sobbed, "Why can't we just get Tugger and get it over with?"

Macavity was caught off guard by Bomby's quiet approach. He was also surprised by the kiss. He pulled back and with a smile asked. "What was that for?"

Macavity smiled and reached out with his paw and ran his fingers through the fur on her cheek. "You know that you dont have to ask. Just say the word and Ill follow you anywhere. Maybe we should tell Munkus before we leave."

Teazer didn't have time to reply before Bomby left. Teazer went back into Bomba's den. "Does this mean we're not workin' for you any more?" she asked Macavity. She sat down across from him.

Macavity watched Bomby leave and then Teazer sat across from. Macavity settled his gaze on her. "Lets just say...that I am retaining you services, but for now...just be there when I call."

Bomba peeked her head around the enterence of the den and whispered, "Tugger...Can I talk to you?"

Tugger was grief stricken by the loss of his father. He heard a voice from the entrance of his den and looked up to see a bit of res fur. "Bomby...what do you want?" He had an edge of disdanr in his voice. "I figured you would be with my brother. Where is he by the way?"

Macavity smiled as Teazer laid down and fell asleep. He pulled one of the covers from Bomby's bed and covered her up. He stepped out of the den and looked around. All was quiet ih the yard. He liked the quiet, looking up at the moon and wondered if Old D was looking down at him.