Ashes to Ashes

by FortressMaximus

NEW CHAPTER! 9-1-14 ! After a horrific attack by Dark Kat, MegaKat city tries to return to normal despite crippling losses. But destiny & fate have something else in mind-something that will change the lives of Callie, Felina and Ulysses forever!

1. Chapters One and Two: Ashes to Ashes and...

Authors Notes:

1) Hello everyone! First off..this ain't Digimon! (smile). This fanfic is based off the
show hopefully you will remember as Swat Kats: The Radical Squadron. This story is..oh,
about 3 years old and to be up front it's still not finished. This muse has for the most
part deserted BUT I sincerely hope that if even a few people want me to finish it that
I can rise to the challenge once again. I haven't changed anything from the original
posted at The Swat Kat fanfic archive.

2) Disclaimer: I don't own the Swat Kats. Hanna-B does, as does Ted
Turner. I'm not making a dime off this project. It is for personal
enjoyment only by fans of Swat Kats.

3) Special Disclaimer: I do not own or possess the rights to the character known
in part 2 as 'Merklyn'. However, I can not reveal the proper owner of that
name or the mythos the character is involved in w/o giving away some significant
potential plot points. Suffice it to say that if your reading this and DO own the
rights, you will receive full credit when the story is completed. Thank you for not
suing. :)

4) Note of Thanks: To Don Redmond for some invaluable proofreading and
being a pretty nifty sounding board. Thanks to Jade Callan for letting me use
the character of Sami Higgins in this 'fic

5) EXTRA special note: There are also thanks for one person who is not a member of the SK
universe but his writing has inspired me beyond count in the past few years. If you like
furry fanfic, or just great writing in general please go to www.geocities.com/TelevisionCity/Studio/7847/kcfanfic.html.
This is the Kit Cloudkicker Home Page which is based on the Disney show Talespin. The
entire site is really nice, and the fanfic page contains many great writers, but Dan
Green is without a doubt one of the best writers of 'fic that I have ever read. Please
check out his stuff as it is incredible. Some of it has left me shaking after reading. It's THAT good

6) Again, I'm sorry for not posting more of 'Pillow Talk' and 'Of Crests and Planets'. They are coming tho. I promise! I just need a little more time to sort some plot points out!

Please enjoy!!
F_M

SwatKats:Ashes to Ashes


Part One

"Friends, we are gathered here today to honor two Kats who gave
their lives in the service of the Goddess above to protect others from
evils so vast...."

Calico Briggs sat in the front row of the service, the chilly fall
day no longer a bother as she lost herself in her misery filled
thoughts. The pastors' kind words faintly echoed in her mind as the
grief in her heart would not be ignored. Unbidden thoughts flooded her
memory as she recalled each time both she and the city had been saved
by those receiving their final respects today.

*Now what would they do? Who would protect those who could not
protect themselves??* Questions like this attacked her conscience over
and over as she felt the tears beginning to swell. She tried to be
strong since..that day, not just for herself but for all of MegaKat
city as well. Faced now with the ultimate farewell, her tears broke
free and drenched her fur in sadness.

Felina put a comforting hand on Callie's paw, trying to let the
kat draw strength from her, but to no avail. Misery almost tangible
seemed to set in over Callie as the pastor kept lauding those they
were here to release from the mortal coil. Felina felt the same as
Callie looked; like part of her soul was gone. Her enforcer training
was of little use at times like this; how do you keep memories from
tearing apart mental defenses already ravaged by guilt for not doing
more and despair when you saw the results of your failure? Felina had
no answers so she did all she could and held Callie's paw and provide
what support she could.

'A-men...." echoed the gathered Kats. It was amazing how various
the gathered mourners were; so-different lifestyles that only an event
this terrible could bind them together in a common sorrow. Homeless
kats stood next to some of the most wealthy kats in the city.
Enforcers stood next to several gang members a week before they might
have taken in for questioning; now they stood like brothers sharing a
common grief.

Felina looked up as the pastor glanced at Callie and quietly
stepped off to the side, smoothing her robes. Felina leaned over and
whispered into Callie's ear.."It's time.."

Callie nodded and with the last of her will forced her tears..her
sorrow..her anger down into the pit of her being and with the grace of
a warrior-born she walked up to the small podium to address the
assembled Kats.

"They say that..death is not an end..but the beginning of a new
life. That what we leave behind is more important than than how we
leave. If this is true, then these two gentlekats have left a legacy
that will never be forgotten by MegaKat city nor by the world. No
matter how much time passes or what transpires, I vow that the memory
of the Swat Kats will live forever in our hearts and our history."

Callie and the assembled Kats looked at the two beautiful rosewood
coffins as they were slowly lowered into the ground. Callie began to
feel her resolve crumble at the sight and shakily walked off stage to
be met by Felina.The acting mayor sat down as Felina glanced over at
her Uncle Ulysses, who nodded slightly at his niece.

"Enforcers..ten-hut!" the Enforcer commander crisply ordered.

All the Enforcers assembled went to immediate attention, ramrod
straight, eyes focused like a hawks' on the descending caskets. Seven
enforcers in particular watched both the grave site and their
commander, who after a few moment turned and addressed the honor
guard.

"Weapons ready!"

The seven Enforcers raised their laser rifles towards the heavens
and unlocked the safeties. The other raised their right paw and
saluted the two Kats who had saved MegaKat city at the ultimate cost.

"Fire!"

Seven bright red shots lanced into the early evening sky,
dispersing after about 30ft. The seven stood ready again.

"Fire!"

Again, the lances of light escaped into the sky.

"Fire!"

As the last barrage faded, the seven stood down as Feral turned
back to face the two caskets that symbolized his former foes. Felina
tried to read her uncle but even on her best day she could only get
surface impressions; and this was far from her best day. She watched
him walk over to the plot and did something she never would have
expected.

He saluted.

After a few moments Feral ended the salute and nodded slightly to
the two caskets-perhaps as a final guest ure of respect-and turned and
walked back to his line of Enforcers.

"Dismissed."

The honor guard marched back to the rear of the crowd and Feral
noticed that most of his troops were still saluting the two heroes.

Slowly the pastor took to the podium, her soft red hair waiving in
the cool evening breeze. As she looked out over the crowd she could
almost see the sadness that permeated those assembled. "My friends.."
she began.."Never forget the lessons that Razor and T-Bone have passed
on to us. Each of us has a duty to protect those who can not defend
themselves. To ignore that duty is to ignore everything they
sacrificed their lives for. But, if those lessons are remembered in
our hearts then their spirit will live on in each of us, and for that
we are all a little better person." She paused slightly .."This
service is concluded."

The universe seemed to stop for as each assembled were still lost
in their own thoughts. Then..slowly..the mourners scattered- some went
by the caskets to pay their respects one final time while others left,
unable to cope any further.

Ulysses Feral walked over to a distraught Calico Briggs. Felina
was helping her into the limo waiting to take her home. Feral glanced
at his niece, wanting to say some words of comfort but he had none to
give.

Many thought (according to rumor anyway) that Feral wouldn't be
here today due to his hatred of the Swat Kats. Other rumors spoke of
him actually celebrating when he found out about the crash of the
Turbokat. Commander Feral sighed, wishing to be free of all the lies
and half-truths about him but decided that today was not the day to
press the matter. His formal announcement that the Enforcers were
taking drastic steps to protect MegaKat city at this time of mourning
was enough to keep his nay-sayers at bay for a little while. In the
meantime he had other important duties to perform. Turning to go to
his own car, Feral glanced back at the grave site as two helpkats
started filling in the plots.

**Ashes to Ashes..dust to dust** echoed the old saying in Feral's
mind. He stepped into the car and waited for Felina and Calico to get
in. A few moments later the limo took off for Calico's condo as
Feral's car took up point behind the limo to provide protection for
the acting Mayor. Feral made a mental note to call the hospital to
check on Mayor Manx's condition. It would be several days, possibly a
week, before the doctors said he should come out his coma.

Most of the mourners let Callie's limo go first, then Feral's car.
As they left the cemetery Felina saw hundreds of katizens lined up
along the main route holding flowers, crosses, pictures of the two
departed heroes. Callie just stared out the window not seeing any of
it as her thoughts were on the future, and how bleak it would be
without her friends in it.

Miles from the cemetery, several other kats gathered to watch Ann
Gora's live feed of the funeral. As the TV signal flickered off and on
from being pulled a mile underground there was a stunned silence as
the image of the caskets came onto the screen. Then..all of a
sudden...

"Yea!!" yelled one voice.

"Interessssting!!" commented another.

"All Right..ventalted Swat Kat! Best show on TV!"

"SILENCE!" bellowed the final voice.

Hard Drive, Dr. Viper, and the Metalikats froze in place as Dark
Kat fixed them all with a glare that could melt an iceberg. "You
fools! While we are celebrating the Enforcers are making plans to
strengthen their defenses. They *know* we will be coming sooner or
later now that their precious Swat Kats are gone!. "

"Ah, relax DK" grinned Hard Drive. "There's nothing the Enforcers
can do to the four of us..and besides, we've all been waiting for a
LONG time to get them Swat Kats outta our hair. So if you wanna sit
there and worry about Feral and the rest of his lackeys go ahead.
We're" he nodded to the other gathered villains "gonna enjoy the
victory." Hard Drive turned away from Dark Kat and begin to talk to
the Metalikats on a plan they had stitched together to go after the
MegaKat gold reserve.

"Sssssooo Hard Drive..." Viper grinned.."You think the Ssssswat
Katssss are gone for good?" His tone implied that he found it hard to
believe that his hated foes were so easily finished. "They never found
the bodiessss remember? Just the ssshattered remains of their
accursssed jet. And for all we know thissss could be a trap ssset by
them and Feral!" Viper's plantammals hissed and growled in agreement
with their creators' observation.

Before the techno-villain could reply Mac Mange piped up.. "You
know Viper..you could get that speech impediment fixed..maybe some
fertilizer would help!" Mac and Mollie both laughed as Viper's face
contorted into a mask of hate.

"Get them my pretties!!" snarled Viper to his assorted mutates.

"No way!" shouted the metallic Bonnie and Clyde. Leveling their
built-in arm lasers, they aimed for Vipers' killer flytraps as they
approached, drool oozing out of their mouths.

"ENOUGH!" yelled Dark Kat as a torrent of energy escaped from his
cane, enveloping the (literally) stunned villains. Viper's plantammals
screamed in agony as Mac, Molly and Viper too withered in the electric
field before it stopped. "Now..do I have your /complete/ cooperation,
or do I need to give you another reminder of my power?!" the
super-villain looked around the room, eyes glowing a fearful crimson
red. There was no dissension this time. "Excellent ..now come to my
war room and we will plan the destruction of Feral and the Enforcers.
They won't know what hit them!"

The other villains carefully followed Dark Kat into the adjoining
cavern as the evil overlord's laugh echoed through the air.

Fire. Smoke. Falling. Falling. Laughter ringing in your ears as
you plummet to the earth in a ball of fire. No weapons.
Eject..Eject..Eject. No..no good. Falling..falling..ground..coming
up..too fast..too..

"NOOOOOOOOOOO!"

Callie sat up, screaming into the room as her nightmare shook her
awake for the 5th time in a row this week. She was drenched in sweat
and her fur was matted together, tangled beyond belief. For the
longest time she sat in bed, gasping to catch her breath. Soon her
breathing approached normal and with it being almost 4 am sleep would
not be an option any further this morning. Shakily, she got out of bed
and made her way down the hall, the floor creaking as she staggered
along in the dim moonlight.

Reaching the kitchen Callie flicked on the coffee pot and leaned
against the smooth white Formica top, still shivering at the images
that refused to let her sleep. It was getting to the point her job was
beginning to suffer and that just couldn't continue. She was snapping
at people, ordering them around like she was Ahab from Moby Kat.
Yesterday was the worse when David Steele came into her office and
wanted to create a special Enforcer division to take the place of the
Swat Kats. Callie had rallied against the idea and it took her
secretary and Felina (who had been visiting on unrelated Enforcer
business) to hold her back from ripping Steele's throat out. Callie
was protected by Felina's threat of telling her uncle about Steele's
little end-run around standard Enforcer procedure and not telling
Commander Feral first.

Callie poured her coffee and stared at it for the longest time
before finally taking a sip. The black liquid rushed down her throat,
sighing softly as it hit her stomach. Feeling marginally better she
sat down at the table and stared out the bay window as the pale moon
slowly sank below the horizon. She wondered what this day would bring
and would she be able to handle it all one more time.

It was later that same morning when Felina Feral stepped into her
Uncle's office to report for a new duty assignment. She assumed it
would be working on updating the computerized defense link between
Pumadyne and Enforcer HQ. What she got however...

"Uncle..with all due respect..are you sure about this? I should be
here with you and the others helping take up the slack.."

Ulysses Feral looked up at his niece and saw the shocked look on
her face. Truth be told he expected as much and wasn't surprised when
Felina started to object but he held up his left paw and stood up
smoothly. "Felina..this is as necessary right now as you being on the
front lines. Ms. Bri..sorry..Mayor Briggs is under a lot of pressure
and she doesn't need another kidnapping anytime soon. I want you to be
her personal bodyguard. You go where she goes and it will stay that
way until Mayor Manx is able to assume his duties or an emergency
forces me to pull you off that assignment."

Felina opened her mouth to try to change his mind and saw that it
would be pointless to argue further. She went back to full
attention.."Understood Commander."

"Dismissed Lieutenant."

Felina turned and walked out of the office. Feral sat down and
went back to his paperwork but his mind was now a million miles away.

Calico Briggs stood at the window of her new office staring at the
damaged city. Dark Kat's rampage before the end had been brutal, even
by his standards. Buildings were sheared off at horrible angles;
skyscrapers that had withstood powerful earthquakes were now full of
holes from laser blasts that obliterated anything they came in contact
with. MegaKat bridge had been cleaved in half so completely that
ferries were being used to cross Megakat sound so commuters could
travel to work and home. Yet despite all this damage, all the loss of
life that had accompanied it, her heart still ached for two Kats now
gone forever from her life.

Forcing her grief back down she looked away from the desolation
and looked at the desk. Paperwork was strewn all over; everything from
requests for emergency funds to the more normal petitions for council
meetings lay in wait for her. There seemed to be no end of tasks that
crossed her desk and each day they seemed to multiply. All morning she
fought her way through the various piles until she finally had to take
a break. But looking out the window couldn't help her, not this time.
It could only remind her of the agony she and her city was in. She
needed to talk to someone who could help her see things she might be
missing. Someone who would tell her what she had to hear, not what she
/wanted/ to hear. She needed...

"Jake and Chance" she said out loud not realizing it. They would
help her sort through it all. Quickly she called the garage, having
had enough repair work done there to memorize the number by heart. It
was still right before lunch, and normally the guys should in outside
in the bay.

"No answer? That's strange." Callie re-dialed and let the phone
ring 10 times and still there was no answer. Not liking that at all
she hung up and grabbed her purse, heading out the door.

"Marylin, I'm taking an early lunch" she told the young Siamese
Kat who was filling in for Manx's' normal secretary. "I'll be back by
1:00 but if an emergency comes up you've got my cell number right?"

Marylin smiled, her narrow eyes twinking.."Of course. Can I assume
that an emergency would be nothing less than the moon falling out of
the sky?"

Callie nodded..."That's a pretty good definition. Just let me know
if.."

Marylin grinned.."Go to lunch ma'am. If the moon falls out of the
sky or I see a flying pig I'll call you at once!" The lithe she-kat
laughed, making Callie smile for the first time in over a week.

"Thanks. See you soon.." and she left for the elevator as Marylin
picked up the phone.

"Mayors' office. No, Mayor Briggs is in a crucial meeting and can
not be disturbed. May I take a message...?" Marylin smiled as Callico
disappeared into the elevator.

Felina hung up the phone and sighed. "Crucial meeting my furry
tail. How can I protect her if I can't find.." Wait...if she was using
the limo from the funeral, Felina had had left a homing tracer in the
car purposely in case something happened on the way from the service.
"Dumb luck strikes again.." muttered the Enforcer and switched on her
car's autotracker, blinking as the signal was coming in loud and
clear, but from the opposite side of town. The only thing out that was
the salvage yard. "Maybe her car's busted again.." Felina wondered to
herself and decided that there was only one way to find out. Doing a
quick U-turn, she ignored the horns and glares of surrounding drivers
and hit Highway 29 to get to the yard as fast as she could.

Meanwhile, as Felina was heading to the salvage yard, Dark Kat and
his assembled peers stared at the holo-projection being emitted from
the center computer console as they finalized their plans. Shown was
Puma- dyne, Megakat Biochemical and a new company called MegaTron
Labs.

"Then it's agreed! Hard Drive and the MetaliKats will launch a
diversionary attack on Pumadyne while Dr. Viper uses his creations to
do the same to Megakat Biochemical. This will split the Enforcers up
so they won't be able to stop me from raiding MegaTron for the
experimental antimatter." Dark Kat looked around the room and waited
for someone to disagree. No one did, each remembering the earlier
display of force and not wanting a repeat.

"We ssstill keep whatever we obtain during our attackssss..correct
Dark Kat?? I will not loossse Kataylist 69 again. With it, my
plantammalsss will be resssistant to temperature extremes. Nothing
will ssstand in my way!" Viper glared at Dark Kat, fully expecting a
double-cross but needing to put up with him and the others until he
had his necessary chemical safe in his swamp hideout.

"Of course my dear doctor! Just like Hard Drive and the Metalkats
can keep whatever they take from Pumadyne. The main objective of our
attacks is to allow me time to get the antimatter and return here to
finish my Nega-Bomb. Then..and only then..will we dissolve our
partnership and I will finish off the Enforcers once and for all!"

The Metalikats didn't believe a word of it, nor did Hard Drive.
But Dark Kat's plan made sound tactical sense. So all nodded in
agreement and each planned the best time to overthrow Dark Kat and
rule MegaKat city for themselves.

"Then let us prepare. We shall have a little more than three weeks
before my new airship is complete, and the best projections show Feral
two weeks behind that in preparing for such a multi-pronged attack."
Dark Kat turned around and looked out the mouth of the cave towards
Megakat City.."Your time is running out Feral..use it wisely!!" and
the madman's' echoing laugh filled the air once more.

Callie was out of the limo before the driver could even open his
door. Grabbing her purse she started to walk into the lobby when the
driver ..some guy named Harry..started to walk in behind her.

"No..this is something I'll take care of. Head on back to city
hall and I'll take a cab later..." Callie said with enough authority
that he knew objecting would be pointless unless he wanted to enjoy
possible unemployment in his near future.

"Of course Mayor. " was the simple reply and he got back into the
luxurious white automobile and backed out the driveway far enough to
do a 180* and swerve around the dump truck pulling into the lot.
Reaching the highway he had to dodge some crazy she-kat in a gray
sedan that looked a lot like...

Harry took a double take and realized who the 'crazy' she-kat was
and smiled as she turned into the salvage yard. Picking up the phone
nestled in the console before him, Harry dialed a number and listened
for a moment.

"Feral here."

"Commander, it's Harry Snow. The Mayor just had me drop her off at
the salvage yard and Felina just pulled in a few moments ago."

"Understood. Continue to pose as her chauffeur until you hear
otherwise and be sure Felina doesn't spot you."

"No problem sir. Returning to city hall. Snow out." Setting the
phone back in its cradle Harry veered around potholes and construction
barricades as he quietly wished for the simple life of a beat kat.

Callie wondered into the repair bay and looked around for a few
moments. Neither Jake or Chance were in the garage. She half expected
to find one or both of them buried under a hood but there was no sign
of them. Several cars looked like they were in the process of being
repaired but they appeared far from finished. Walking over, Callie saw
tools laying on the engine blocks, as if the boys had been whisked
away by magic right in the middle of fixing the automobiles.

Ignoring the ball of uneasiness in her stomach Callie moved to the
office and tried the door. It was unlocked, and she decided to go
in..."Chance..Jake? Anyone home??"

Dead silence was the reply.

Walking a bit further she noticed the door leading from the office
to their...well, house was took kind and shack was a bit too
rude..dwelling (*close enough* she thought) ajar, she peeked into the
living room and called again.."Jake..Chance..are you home??"

Perking up her ears Callie felt her heart lighten when she heard
voices in the other room but it quickly turned into false hope as she
realized it was only the TV. Turning to go back to the living room she
noticed the blinking VCR clock. Moving over, she saw the power had
surged recently, knocking out the settings. Curious as to why they
hadn't fixed the programming, Callie loaded the tape into the player
and hit the rewind button. Seconds later she hit play and watched.

'Scardy Kat's 24 hour marathon will continue after these short
messages from our sponsors!' came the over-caffinated voice of the
announcer.

Now Callie was really confused. That marathon was on over a week
ago! Stopping the tape, she turned the TV off and went back to the
living room. Callie looked around the room and shook her head.

*Something isn't right..this doesn't make any sense* Callie mused
as the pieces didn't fit together. She fumbled in her purse and tried
to find a sheet of paper and a pen to leave the guys a note. Finding
both, she began to pull them out when something caught her eye: her
Swat Kat communicator. It was only now, after seeing it buried in
depths of her purse, did she realized it was still in her possession.
Feeling that bit of uneasiness grow she again ignored it and went to
put the now useless device back. Suddenly a truck horn sounded in the
distance, the shrill noise startling her enough to where she
accidentally pressed the button.

A few seconds later Callie's world fragmented as all hell broke
loose around her.

A few minutes before Callie's world finally collapsed, Lieutenant
Felina Feral was having a few choice words (none of them very
ladylike) with two dump-truck junkkats that had blocked the entire
driveway leading into the salvage yard.

Slamming the door upon her departure from the squad car, Felina
stalked up to the two kats who were smiling at her predicament.
"Listen..I'm on Enforcer business so move this truck /right now/ or
I'll have it towed and you tossed into the deepest hole I can find for
obstruction of a city officer in her duties!" Felina poked Burke's
chest for emphasis on the final couple of words, but the kat looked
far from impressed.

"Ah, lower the volume sister! We gotta dump this scrap and we were
told by Commander Feral himself that we stay on schedule and get the
mess Dark Kat left cleaned up by the end of the week or we'll both
have our tails in a sling! So nothing you can do can get me to stop in
the middle of ..what..are you doing??" Burke started to pale slightly
as he saw Felina pull her blaster and aim it at his left shoulder.
Both he and his partner Murry started to raise their hands and sputter
almost in synch "Oh..okay, you ..you've made you point...."

Felina fired twice, the shots ringing through the yard. For the
longest time the echo bounced around the front half of the yard, but
muffled from the back half by the car compactor that was ending the
life of a badly mistreated Kugo. The blaster shot was no match for the
mechanical crusher and the main house and garage was spared the echo
of the weapons fire. Burke and Murry wasn't so lucky; at least, their
milk cans weren't. The two containers sitting on the bumper of the
truck became metal Swiss cheese as their refreshing liquid sputtered
to the ground.

"I hope I have..'gentlemen..' . Drinking in public is a jail able
offense guys. If you move this heap../NOW/..I must might forget I saw
all this." Felina smiled ever so slightly and waited for the guys to
decide.

"Of course we'll move Lieutenant. right away!" The pair couldn't
get to their truck fast enough and seconds after the bed had locked
into the down position, the two rumbled out of the lot as quickly as
possible. In anger, Murry jerked the horn at the she-kat as they
rounded the corner. This time, the car crushed wasn't running and the
horn filled the entire lot with it's shrill call.

Smiling as the two sped off Felina coughed as their exhaust
rumbled past her in the breeze. Shaking off the fumes, Felina got in
her car and pulled up to the garage. Mentally, she /knew/ she wasted
too much time with those sorry excuses for tom-kats. For an Enforcer,
every moment could be the one each never wanted to face: that one
second where life turned to death, where hope turned to tragedy.
Felina silently vowed that this would not be the case, not this time.

Exiting her car as quickly as possible, she jogged up to the
repair bay. She called into the garage "Mayor Briggs? Are you
here..it's Lieutenant Feral."

The only reply was the soft wail of a not-too-distant alarm, very
similar to the emergency siren at the Enforcer barracks.

Felina walked over to the door to the lobby and eased in, her
weapon at the ready. Using what cover there was she slipped to the
inner door frame and stood still. After a minute of visually checking
the situation, the lithe she-kat tumbled into the room and came out of
her crouch aiming at the darkened figure sitting on the floor. The
alarm was louder in here than outside, but still deeply muffled. The
figure didn't seem to notice-or sense- Felina's presence at all.

"Freeze! Enforcers!" came the order as Felina kept her weapon
aimed at the figure on the floor.

Whoever it was, words had no effect. Slowly Felina heard another
sound mixed with the background noise: soft, sobbing whimpers.

Tense seconds passed as Felina began to realize that her 'burglar'
was none other than Calico Briggs herself! Blinking as if to believe
her eyes, she walked over to the kneeling form of her charge as she
holstered her pistol.

"Callie? It's Felina Feral. Are you okay?"

*Of course she's not okay* Felina chided herself for not having a
more original question to start with. Leaning over, she gingerly put
her hand on Callie's left shoulder, shocking the distraught Mayor into
attentiveness long enough to turn around.

Felina gasped as she saw Callie's state-her fur was matted and
knotted as her normally clear and focused eyes were puffy from the
sobbing that had proved to be overwhelming. Her clothes were askew; as
if she had lost all care about personal appearance. It was almost like
something had shattered her will and this battered husk was all that
remained of the young lady that Felina (among many others) had come to
admire and respect for her courage and bravery under fire.

Felina would be the first one to admit she didn't know Callie as
well as she wanted, but her duties as an Enforcer came before any
personal relationships. Felina silently vowed once they got past this
time of grief, that would change. Her thoughts snapped back to the
current situation as Callie fixed her eyes into the Enforcer.

Clutching the communicator, Callie jerked away from the reassuring
hand Felina tried to give. Finding her voice she spat at
friend..."Don't you see..don't you understand?! It's my fault! It's
all my fault!! I killed them..I killed them all!!" Callie almost
shrieked as she attempted to stagger to her feet, trying to run from
both Felina and the guilt of what she caused was now doubled against
her broken heart.

"Who Callie..who did you.. kill??" Felina asked softly. She knew
Callie could never kill anyone; her heart told her that much. But to
see Callie like this.. teetering on the brink of emotional
shutdown..was something she never expected to see in this life.
Mentally she braced herself for the answer.

"Don't you see!? I killed the Swat Kats!"

"You have got to be joking!" startled Feral, looking up accross to
the kat sitting to his right.

"Not at all Commander Feral, although I wish I was for all our
sakes. The tests are far from perfect; that much I'll admit. But every
logical course of reasoning suggests that Ms. Briggs might be heading
for a nervous collapse."

Feral looked at Dr. Katzenberg, shaking his head. "I know your the
most respected neurologist in the city Doctor, but I have known Mayor
Briggs for several years and find it hard to believe that after little
more than a week in office your ready to admit her to Megakat Memorial
Hospital's special care wing." Feral silently fumed; this was the
/LAST/ thing he wanted..or needed..to hear. In addition to beefing up
security at Pumadyne and MegaKat Biochem, there was that new place
called MegaTron that requested Enforcer presence to support its
in-house security team. The Enforcers were stretched to their limit
and he had no time to worry about committing the acting Mayor..no
matter how brief a period..to a ward at Megakat Memorial. **Besides,
no matter how much I might have disagreed with her support of the Swat
Kats in the past, she is the best person to keep this city together
long enough for my Enforcers to be where they need to be.**

Thomas Katzenberg was a small Persian, nearly pure white with only
a touch of gray tuff at his wrists. Pushing his horn rimmed glasses up
on his nose, he quietly he studied Feral, letting the Enforcer study
his options. The Doctor's mind drifted to how this whole mess started.
After Mayor Manx was brought to the hospital for a concussion
sustained when the Turbokat collided with Dark Kat's flying fortress,
he did a complete physical on Calico Briggs-as procedure dictated-
when a new mayor was put into office. Those first batch of tests were
to be used as baseline comparisons against any later tests to see if
the pressures of office were adversely affecting the health of the
acting Mayor.

"Are you sure about this Doctor?" Feral's voice cut into
Katzenberg's mental review.

"As sure as I can be with this most recent test. The one week
follow-up, again as required by city law, shows a 43% increase in
several brain chemicals." He chose to forgo the more clinical details
of Calico's tests as he knew Feral's penchent for obtaining needed
information without unnecessary tangents. "The chemicals in question
were expected to rise; that much we knew. But 43%? Before now,
anything above 29% was unheard of. In addition, her white blood cell
count is down- an expected sign of intense stress- but again, the
downward turn was much greater than expected."

"How much?" queried Feral.

"Nearly 63%. At this point Commander, the common cold could put
her out of commission for month. If she got the flu, it could well be
fatal under certain conditions."

"Fatal!?" Feral looked stunned.

"Those are extreme cases commander, but they are entirely
possible. The basic problem boils down to this: some type of external
or internal stress is causing her body to react in adverse ways.
Something about this whole affair is affecting her in ways we can't
begin to understand. All we have to go by is the final result- she
either takes time off and defeats whatever this problem is, or we're
forced to get her professional help at MegaKat Memorial. Either way, a
new acting Mayor will need to be appointed, as per city charter."

"Doctor, what your telling me is that Ms. Briggs is heading for a
nervous collapse and that if we don't help her, we will need to remove
her from office??" Feral summed up the conservation, still unable to
believe the route the Doctor was suggesting if worse came to worse.

"There is one other problem Commander Feral."

"Great! What's that?" the exasperated Enforcer snapped.

Ignoring the tone of the reply, Katzenberg continued..."According
to amendment N.C.C 1701 subsections 'A-E' of the Megakat city
charter," he paused, trying to remember the exact wording. He
couldn't, so he paraphrased: "In the event that both Mayor and
Deputy-Mayor are unable to perform their duties, the city council
shall appoint an interim Mayor until such time either the Mayor or
Deputy Mayor can resume those duties..."

Feral frowned..."Let me guess: they've already chosen a
replacement and it's up to me to inform him or her when we go ahead
and remove Ms. Briggs." It was a task Feral didn't relish. He had too
much going to play errand boy to a city council that already bound his
paws enough. If they chose someone in-line with their past policies,
then Feral would be in a lose-lose situation without Calico Briggs to
back him up; a habit she had recently developed and one he would like
for her to keep.

Suddenly the intercom buzzed and Feral leaned over slightly and
flicked the 'talk' switch "Feral here. What is it?"

"Call for Doctor Katzenberg on line two sir. It's Megakat
Memorial."

Thomas looked at Feral and picked up the receiver. "Katzenberg
here. What's the..." he stopped, apparently the party on the other end
insistent on relaying the information with all due haste. After a few
seconds the doctor blanched. "We'll be right there!" and was reaching
for his briefcase before the phone hit the cradle.

Katzenberg looked over at Feral (who had apparently picked up on
the 'we' part) as he secured his shoulder holster and the heavy
blaster pistol it contained.

"What's up doctor?" Feral inquired as he slipped on his overcoat,
buttoning it up to his neck.

"I'm afraid our previous conversation in possibilities just became
fact Commander. Your niece brought Callico into Megakat Memorial a few
minutes ago unconscious. Both of them looked like there were in a
serious fight." Katzenberg was already out the office door as Feral
took four strides and caught up.

"What's their prognosis? Any signs of what occurred" Feral tried
to hide his worry about his niece, but to anyone who was a parent-like
Thomas-it was as clear on his face as the mid-afternoon sun in the
sky.

"Nothing yet..." answered Katzenberg as both he and Feral bypassed
the elevator in favor of the quicker stairs. "Callie's in ICU and
Felina's being treated on an outpatient basis." The five stories to
the parking deck flew by as the pair slammed open the doorway on the
lowest level. "Come on, my car is over here" pointed the doctor.

"I'll get my cruiser. You'll have an Enforcer escort all the way!"
Feral shouted as each kat ran across the bay towards their respective
autos. Seconds later both cars tore out of the Enforcer parking deck
bound for Megakat Memorial.

"Hang on Felina" muttered Feral as he bypassed a MegaTron tanker
truck. As he sped down the interstate, his earlier concerns evaporated
as Felina filled his thoughts. Flanking Katzenberg's car all the way
to the hospital, they made record time despite the early afternoon
traffic.

But even if Ferals' thoughts had not been focused entirely on his
niece, he could not have known that his every action was being watched
by a very familiar she-kat; one as crucial to the future of MegaKat
city as Felina, Callie, or the Swat Kats themselves, despite the fact
she was removed from his reality by over 400 years of time itself....

Swat Kats: Ashes to Ashes part II--Destination Unknown

Hard Drive sat looking at the spartan room that served as recreation quarters
for the "Alliance of Doom', as Dark Kat had taken to calling the gathered
super-villains. Mac Mange was shooting a solo game of pool on a ratty table
stolen from a crime spree several weeks ago. He was, of course, cheating and
since he couldn't catch himself, he was winning big time. Mollie Mange gave her
husband a disgusted look and went back to channel flipping, trying to find
something to watch that didn't involve a credit card (super-villains get lousy
credit ratings). Viper was pouring over some biochemical formula in the most
distant corner of the room, put there by the rest of the group since his insane
laughter and tendency to answer his own questions put the others ill at ease.
Disgusted with the lack of activity, Hard Drive threw down his magazine and
walked towards the door.."I'm going out! " he snarled to no one in particular.

Mollie looked over at the techno-villain and gave him a look she usually
reserved for her husband when his mechanical mind came up with another inane plan
to rob Megakat City blind. "You fry your brain on your last trip down through the
power lines Hard Drive?! Dark Crud said he didn't want us leaving the mountain
for any reason!"

"Oh, and since when did you start doing everything tall, dark and gruesome
said?" Hard Drive spat at Mollie, prompting Mac to stop his game and glare at the
villain.

"Hey! Watch your tone of voice creep! No one talks to Mollie like that but
me!" The robotic Kat walked over towards Hard Drive, the pool cue snapping like a
twig as he balled his fist.

"Come on Mac! Don't get your circuits in a bunch!" yelled Mollie. To this day
she kept asking herself over and over why../WHY/ she ever married that lunk. And
every time she came up with the same answer...she loved him. But SHE'D never be
the one to admit it first. "All I'm saying Drivy is that Dark Kat's got a good
plan for us to wipe out Feral and his idiotic Enforcers AND get a whopping pile
of loot at the same time! I don't like him any more than you do, but I'm not
gonna get my tail zapped again just cause your bored! So sit down and shut up or
I'll shut you up myself!" Mollie stood from the couch and aimed her blaster at
Hard Drive as he looked for a convent electrical outlet to zip into--just in
case.

"You fools!" bellowed Dark Kat as his huge shadow feel across the room. "I
leave the room for 5 minutes and you start to act like children! We are supposed
to be on the same side, not fighting each other like hyperactive 5 year olds!"
The master villain seethed, anxious to get to the point where doing away with
these excuses for criminals would be a just reward for all his hard work. But for
now..he needed them. But soon...very soon...

"Can the act Dark Kat!" Hard Drive spoke with uncharacteristic bravado
towards the massive figure. "We all know your gonna dump us when you get that
Anti-Matter from Megatron Labs!" Hard Drive knew he was on dangerous ground, but
he had all this 'alliance' he could stand. "You need us to keep the Enforcers
busy, and we need your technology to destroy them! But we all know what's next;
you double-cross us, or we double-cross you! I may be a crook, but I'm not
stupid! So you either come clean right now or I'm outta here!"

Mollie and Mac stood staring at Hard Drive. *That punk's got a death wish*
Mac thought as he felt Mollie pull up beside him. He leaned over, whispering "You
believing this Mol?" he said in the softest tones his vocal synthesizer could
create. Mollie just shook her head, not quite believing it was Hard Drive who was
voicing their shared concerns.

Dark Kat himself was amazed at Hard Drive's bravery, or was it stupidity? He
couldn't decide, but one thing he did require was the villains' surge suit to
check the systems on his new warship that was only a bit more than three weeks
from completion. Without him, Dark Kat's time table would be thrown off enough by
a manual systems check to where Feral and his accursed Enforcers would be at
nearly full strength AND equipped the new weapon upgrades Pumadyne was
developing. A problematic thorn in his side at the very least. Restraining his
anger, Dark Kat looked down at Hard Drive and almost smiled, a feature that
looked as evil on Dark Kat as his scowl.

"My dear Hard Drive, you seek to accuse me of betraying you when I am sure
that you and the others have considered the very same thoughts! We do not trust
easily..that is our nature. It is also our weakness. THAT is why those accursed
Swat Kats defeated us for so long; but no more! I vow on all that is evil that we
shall see this through to the bitter end, when Feral is broken at my feet and
Megakat City is rubble. No betrayals, no double dealings. I am...kat..enough to
make this offer. Are you kat enough to accept?" The unsaid insult hung thick in
the air, prompting even Viper to finally pay attention to the shouting match
instead of his calculations.

"On two conditions Dark Kat. One, we go our separate ways after you launch
your attack on Feral. I am /not/ getting caught in the crossfire. Two, we owe
each other NOTHING! " Hard Drive stood there, awaiting the answer.

Dark Kat looked over at the Metalikats.."And what of you Mac and Mollie
Mange? Do you share Hard Drive's concerns?"

The two blinked, not wanting to drawn into this war of wills. But having been
done so, Mac looked at Mollie and piped up. "As a matter of fact Dark Kat, we do!
Last time we would have bought it thanks to them collars you slapped us in. Whose
ta say you ain't already got something like that in mind again! I say.."

"Shut up Mac!" Mollie shoved her husband. "Listen Dark Kat. We ain't gonna be
collared like some wild animal and if you try we'll vaporize your tail! Me and
Mac already died once and I don't mind doing it again if we take a piece of work
like you with us! So no double crosses, no tricks. We get our loot, Hard Drive
gets his weapons plans from Pumadyne to sell, you get to blast Feral back to the
Dark Ages in little pieces, and Mr. Lizard over there gets his Megaswamp City
with what's left of the pieces!"

Viper growled at the crack, but chose to not push the issue..yet. Behind him
assorted plantmammals snarled and hissed as they wanted to rip the tin woman
apart, but held back until their creator ordered it. Feeling Dark Kat's stare, he
looked from Mollie Mange to the immense villain.

"What of you, my dear Doctor Viper? Where do you stand..?"

"Your petty feuding is no concccern of mine Dark Kat. I care nothing for
defenssse sssecretsss, or jewelsss and money. Reduce the city to rubble for all I
care. But I SSSHALL have my Megassswamp city after you have destroyed the
Enforcersss. I promisse you that!" With that Viper turned with a loud hiss back
to his formulations, leaving the others to worry about their petty concerns.

"Then it's agreed! We shall work together until the death of Feral and the
devastation of Megakat City. We go our own ways with no tricks! Agreed??" Dark
Kat held out his paw for the Manges and Hard Drive to take.

Each villain looked at the immense paw and wondered how much of their soul
they would give up by taking it? Did they really have a choice? After a few long
moments each took it and together looked up at Dark Kat. "Agreed." was the
combined reply.

"What 'bout you Viper?" called Mollie.

Viper turned back around and almost looked like he was smiling at some hidden
joke. He simply nodded. "Agreed." and he went back to his work.

Satisfied he had fooled them all for now, Dark Kat pulled his paw away.
"Excellent! Now follow me. This petty bickering must be put aside for there are
new plans to be made." With that, Dark Kat turned and exited the room, followed
by a still wary Hard Drive and Mac and Mollie Mange. Only Viper did not follow at
once. Finishing up a formula, he looked at the empty room and began to laugh, the
insane sound echoing through the mountain

"Felina!" was the first words from Feral's lips as he burst into Megakat
Memorial's ER.

Felina glanced up from where sat, wincing as the action sent a twinge of pain
through her neck as her muscles still felt as if they had been tied in knots for
a week. She tried to turn at the waist, but the nurse bandaging her ribs firmly
fixed her with a glare and the Enforcer sat still. "Here Commander." was the soft
reply.

Ulysses walked over, nearly pushing a few interns out of the way as he pulled
up beside Felina. "What happened Lieutenant?"

The nurse finished bandaging Felina's ribs and pulled the top down from under
her breasts to her waist, covering white gauze wrapped tightly around the
Enforcers's stomach. Offering a soft smile she professionally departed, carrying
the brown clipboard over to Thomas Katzenberg who had arrived at the same time as
Commander Feral. Thomas chose to let the Commander ease his mind as to Felina's
condition before entering the discussion, instead reviewing Calico's medical
situation. Smiling, he took the clipboard and dismissed the nurse, his eyes
winding slightly as Callie's condition was made horribly clear.

"I'm not sure Uncle. I don't remember much after I got hit on the head
by...whoever. "

"Start at the beginning Felina." Feral asked, his voice neutral but still
twinged with concern.

"There's not much to tell. I followed the autotracker to Clawson's and
Furlong's garage out on 29. I started to draw my sidearm when I saw..someone..on
the floor in one of the repair bays. After a few steps someone slammed what felt
like a baseball bat into my side then clobbered me over the head. I remember
waking up and trying to get Mayor Briggs-who was beside me and looking in pretty
bad shape- to the hospital so I called Megakat Memorial to alert them that I was
coming, then everything started to go black. I.." she paused, shaking her head as
if to clear it and immediately regretted the action. After a moment the world
stopped spinning and she composed herself..."vaugely remember fumbling for my
radio and pressing the emergency button...after that it's all blank until I woke
up in the ambulance..."

Feral nodded and looked over at an Enforcer standing guard a few feet away.
"Are you the one who brought the Lieutenant here?" He asked the suddenly nervous
looking young she-Kat.

"Y..yes Commander. Second Lieutenant Sami Higgins." said the young she-kat,
saluting while assuming full attention.

*Ah, I though that was her* Commander Feral thought as he updated his mental
roloadeck. Glancing down at the officer he spoke.."At ease Higgins. What did you
see when you arrived?"

Sami's deep blue eyes seemed to narrow as her 5'1" frame relaxed slightly.
Putting the past hour's events in a coherent order, she looked up at Feral, her
stunning blond hair flickering slightly in the light of the room. "I was on
patrol when Felin...Lieutenant Feral's emergency call came through. Being the
closest unit I responded. Arriving 5 minutes after originally receiving the call
I found both Mayor Briggs and Lieutenant Feral in the condition she mentioned.
Calling for an ambulance, it arrived to carry both of them here to Megakat
Memorial. I followed in my own cruiser sir. By the time we had reached the
hospital, Lieutenant Feral had regained consciousness and started to carry Felina
into the emergency room as I told an orderly to get a doctor down here. Then you
and the other gentlekat arrived sir." She paused, wondering if she said too much,
or not enough, or the wrong things all together.

*So, that's why Katzenberg was told Felina brought in Briggs...* the shadow
of a smile passes across Feral's lips as he was glad that..at least this
time..his niece was too stubborn to stay still. *She very likely saved Ms.
Brigg's life..*. Looking down at the young Enforcer Feral let his normal neutral
gaze take over.. "You saw no one when you arrived at the salvage yard?" Inwardly,
Feral's mind raced as somehow, on a instinctive level, he /knew/ who attacked
both his niece and Calico Briggs.

"No commander. No sign of anyone other than the Lieutenant and Mayor Briggs.
There were no other vehicles other than the ones in for repair. I did a quick
sweep after the paramedics arrived, but the yard was empty save for us."

Feral nodded and seemed to weigh his options for a long moment. To him, it
was totally obvious who attacked the pair, as was the reasons why. *Now I've got
them...* he growled to himself as he glanced back at Felina, then at Sami.
Reaching down to his belt, he removed the communicator with practiced ease,
deftly flickering the unit to transmit... "This is Feral. I want two APB's put
out immediately! Subject one: Jake Clawson. Subject two: Chance Furlong. I want
them considered armed and extremely dangerous. Physical descriptions on file at
Enforcer Headquarters. This is an Alpha-3 priority."

Felina and Sami looked at Feral with a look of pure shock. Both she-Kats just
stared as their minds tried to process this sudden leap of illogic. Feral felt
their gaze on him and turned around to face his niece. "You have a problem with
this Lieutenant? It was their salvage yard but they were no where to be found.
Officer Higgins saw no one, and since you can not prove from memory or evidence
it /wasn't/ Clawson or Furlong, then they're the most logical suspects. IF they
are innocent, they can prove it when we find them. If not, then I will personally
toss them in the deepest hole I can find until they rot!"

"But Uncle..an Alpha-3 means.." Felina began, but was cut off by Feral's
gaze.

"I am well aware of what it means Lieutenant. But if Clawson and Furlong
surrender peacefully then they won't need to be fired upon. Otherwise, I'm not
taking a chance with any other Enforcer's life. Is that clear?" he directed at
Felina, his eyes narrowing slightly.

"As crystal../sir/." Felina responded, but Ulysses heard the venom in her
reply. Seeing the anger in her eyes, Feral decided to talk to Katzenberg but was
suddenly cut off by an emergency alarm.

Thomas blinked as the all too-familiar voice echoed through the
hospital..."Trauma Team to ICU 4 STAT. Trauma to ICU 4 STAT" and suddenly Kats of
every kind began to organize and most began to carry equipment down the main
hallway towards a room with a flashing red light atop the door frame. "Holy
Kats..." he mummered and joined the rush as Feral, Felina and Sami dashed behind
him.

"What is it Katzenberg!?" Feral nearly had to shout over the din.

"ICU 4 is Calico's room! Her life signs must have dropped suddenly! Stay
here!" he yelled as he grabbed a kit from a passing intern. The stunned trio
slowed, then stopped, as the army of healers disappeared into the small room.

Feral glanced down at the shaken Higgins and then saw the same look on his
niece, their bitter exchange a few moments ago forgotten as they realized that
right now Calico was fighting for life. "Felina.." he said softly.."Did the
doctors tell you anything about Miss Briggs before I got here?"

A soft sigh escaped her lips and her head shook. "Just that she was in pretty
bad shape. That's why she was in the ICU. But nothing..like this.." she stopped,
feeling an uneasiness grow in the pit of her being.

Sami just stood there, not sure what to make of all of this. Why had Felina
been so upset at her uncle for the APB? To her knowledge she didn't think Felina
associated with rouges who got tossed off the force for showboating so it had to
be more than concern for their sakes.-- And who beat up Mayor Briggs and Felina?
There was no apparent motive!-- There were too many pieces that didn't make sense
and despite her best efforts, they just wouldn't fit together..yet.

"Where the hell am I??* Callie asked herself as she tried to peer through the
soupy mists that surrounded her. Tall, lifeless trees snagged at her clothing as
she passed, branches shredding her clothing with unnatural ease. The cold, hard
ground gave no help as she staggered along the desolate landscape, searching for
something familiar ..something comfortable to latch onto. "Hello?! Please..is
anyone here!?" she called out, but apparently in vain. The emptiness seem to
reach beyond forever.

"Deputy Mayor..Miss Briggs!!" called a voice Callie never though to hear
again, at least on this side of the veil.

Callie turned, paling at the voice out that sliced through the darkness.
"T-Bone!? Is that you!? I'm here..over here!" she yelled, hoping the Swat-Kat
could find her in the mass of nothing that seemed to reach out to infinity.

"We're on our way Miss Briggs!" came Razor's voice from someplace else,
unseen but close enough to be as comforting.

An incredible feeling of relief washed over her as two forms seemed to exit
the fog almost in front of her..."Guys..your alive...I can't tell you...you.."
she started, but stuttered to a stop as she realized who..no, what..was advancing
towards her. "NO!! Stay..stay... away from me!" she screamed as the two skeletal
Swat Kats approached her. Terror clutched her throat as the two former heroes
reached out, their bodies nothing but bones with bits of decaying flesh hanging
off. Shattered Glovatrix's rested on each kats' left paw. But it was their
eyes-or rather the empty sockets resting in charred skulls-that froze her to the
core. Her ears burnt with their ghoulish laughter as they approached.

"What's wrong Miss Briggs? Not happy to see us!?" the../thing/ that used to
be T-Bone snarled as his undead partner made swipe at her arm.

"Yea Callie! We're gonna help you like you helped us..TO DIE!" Razor's
remains connected with her arm, pulling the horrified she-Kat to what was left of
his chest. T-Bone's remains closed the gap. The smell of death surrounded the
former heroes as Callie's air was cut off by Razor's bony arm wrapping itself
around her windpipe. A small gurgle escaped her lips as she felt claws dig into
her neck. "Time to die, you coward! " spat the undead remains that used to called
Razor.

Callie tried to scream as the two former heroes tore into her body, but no
sound could emerge. Their claws sliced past fur, deep into the skin itself.
Jagged wounds erupted over her body as blood began to trickle down her chest and
stomach, soaking her remaining clothes and the hard ground with her life-force.
T-Bones' swipes dug deeper as Razor's claws inched into her throat, blood
escaping down her neck, coating his undead fingers. Her legs began to buckle, the
strength she had for flight leaving her as rapidly as her conscious mind. She
mentally tried to flee, to run away from the nightmare her body had become, but
T-Bone's gloating laugh kept pulling her back in time to receive another swipe
into her flesh. A soft question escaped her lips with the last bit of breath she
possessed, knowing that she would soon perish.

"Why??" screamed the zombie T-Bone, his claws still back ready to unleash
what could be the final swipe that would end Calico's life. "You dare ask me
that?!" The undead Kat lowered his hand and grasped her throat above Razor's
lifeless arm. "Your the one that shot down the TurboKat! Your the one that caused
us to crash into Dark Kat's ship. **YOUR THE ONE THAT KILLED US, AND YOU HAVE THE
NERVE TO ASK WHY??* screamed the ghoul as it's bony fingers squeezed harder and
harder.

That's it partner, finish her off!" cheered the decayed Razor. "She's the one
that activated those laser cannons that totaled the Turbokat when she tried to
escape from his airship! If she hadn't tried to help, we'd still be alive right
now!"

"Just..wanted..you..couldn't..shoot..with me.hos..hos.." Callie tried to get
out but T-Bone's grip tightened and she whimpered as her body neared shutdown.
Tears fell down her face as she felt her arms begin to numb, her legs practically
useless. "Jake..Chance..I'm... so...sorry. ." was all she had left to say.
Closing her eyes, she awaited the final moments of her existence.

T-bone snarled as he pulled back, the final slash aimed at her heart. Razor's
laugh filled her ears as the claw began it's downward arc.

Far overhead, there was one witness to the unjust carnage playing out on the
barren wasteland. Unseen by either Callie or her destroyers, a bluish-green orb
appeared high overhead, knowing the time to act would be here soon. Slowly he
started to descend towards the fading she-kat...

"Your Majesty!"

Callista blinked as she bolted upright as Sir Steel's cry rang throughout her
bedchambers. Pulling her nightgown from the hook beside the bed, Callista crawled
out from under the mountain of covers and crossed the large room in three steps.
Slipping the soft blue fabric around her bare form, she opened the door only to
find herself face-to-face with her slightly perturbed Captain of the Guard.

"What is it Sir Steel? What unsteadies my bravest of knights this time of the
morn??"

"My Queen," Nathaniel Steele bowed, his tan-ish form resting on one knee.
"The Orb of Prysmos is vanished from it's resting place!"

Callista's eyes went wide with shock! "How did this occur Sir Steel. Tell me
all you know.." she commanded in an icy tone, catching the Captain off guard with
its intensity. Striding down the hall, uncaring about her state of dress,
Callista strode with a mix of anger and worry as the knight raised up and
followed. Quickly he relayed what had just occurred.

"I had assigned my finest guards to their chambers, just as you requested
your Highness. Every hour upon the hour I personally checked to see the guards
intact and still upon their duty. At last chime I again checked and saw all was
in order when a glow did come from under the door... " Nathaniel paused, his
sudden silence drawing a look from his Queen.

"And what happened next?" she prompted.

"I am afraid of that I am not sure of my Queen. I opened the door, sword in
hand lest the Pastmaster or some other of our enemies had discovered our visitors
condition. There in the corner was the Orb, floating in the air, glowing
brightly. My guards surrounded their beds as I approached but the Orb exploded
with a light unlike I have ever experienced. When my eyes cleared the Orb was not
to be seen. I left my guards there and came to get you my Queen. That is all I
know." Nathaniel looked down, his voice slightly carrying a tone that Callista
never had heard escape from his lips: a tone of failure.

Callista smiled softly, trying to ease the troubled conscious of her friend.
"Do not fault yourself Captain. There is much even I do not fully understand
about the Orb of Prysmos. I doubt you could have done more than you did. We shall
discover the truth about this, but first we need to see if our guests are
unhurt." Callista paused herself for a moment, as if weighing a decision on her
mental scale. Her eyes looked at her Captain and she nodded, the balance having
been reached. "Go to see Arkatta the Wise. Tell her Callista of Megalith City
begs her help and that of her most precious treasure. She will know what I mean."

Nathaniel Steel nodded and sheathed his sword. Raising his right paw, he
clenched it tightly and brought it over his heart as a confirmation of her orders
and his fealty to her. "By your command, my Queen" and with that he ran down the
hall, his voice fading down the long corridor as his squire went to ready a horse
and supplies for the dangerous journey to the Darklands.

As Callista watched the Captain depart, an uneasy feeling overcame her. *Did
the Orb sense it was time? If so, why did it not appear to me in a vision as
before?* Shaking her head, she waved off the guards that started to follow her.
"I shall attend to this myself." she commanded as look of worry crossing one
guard's face. However, Callista had spoke with such authority they simply saluted
and walked down the opposite hall, leaving the Queen to her desired solitude.

Callista's footfalls rhythmically fell upon the stones that lined the way to
her most important destination. *There must be a connection to their arrival and
the stone's recent increase in power..* she mused as the door to her private
study came into view. Then, without the slightest of warnings, the door shattered
and two guards flew through the early morning chill to slam against the opposing
wall with a resounding /THUD/ that made Callista feel sick. As her guards
crumpled to the floor, Callista steady herself for an attack, her hands rising to
a defensive position. The words for a defensive spell began to form in her mind
as a burly shadow flickered across the door frame. Callista frowned and started
to recite the spell, but froze as the owner of the imposing shadow staggered in
view.

The large Kat was ragged, clutching a nasty set of fractured ribs, the most
serious of his injuries. However, there were numerous scars and abrasions still
looking quite painful, even through the coarse linen shirt that only just covered
his frame. Leaning against the wall, he panted for breath as bloodshot eyes
attempted to focus on the stunned she-Kat. Slowly..very slowly..the multiple
images solidified and he blinked, a hoarse whisper escaping from his dry throat.

"C..Cal..lie..?' muttered T-Bone as he looked at Callista and promptly
collapsed to the floor, his minute reserves of energy depleted by his recent
fight. Unconscious, the Swat Kat began to breath shallowly, his fevered mind lost
in the fog of his near-death ordeal over 400 years in the future.

"We're loosing her!" shouted one orderly as the peaks on the biography became
fewer and fewer.

"I want 10 cc's of Animorphin!" Thomas shouted to the air.

"Heart rate is almost nonexistent. Blood pressure is almost off the
charts..." another intern interjected.

Someone handed Thomas a syringe filled with a purplish fluid. Holding it up
for the briefest of moments, the doctor verified it was the correct medication
and dosage and proceeded to inject the liquid into a vein in Callie's arm.
Seconds hung in the air frozen until finally a soft /ping/..then another..caught
Thomas's ear and he looked and smiled. The biograph started to stabilize as
Callie's heart began to beat close to normal. Finally letting out the breath he
seemed to have held forever, Thomas began to cautiously check Callie's stomach
for any discoloration that would suggest internal bleeding or hemorrhaging.
Without warning he let out a soft cry, prompting a young intern to look up from
his tasks, Thomas's pale face sending a wave of concern through the younger
doctor. Douglas Kowser put a hand on Katzenberg's shoulder.

"Sir..are you.." the young kat began, but froze when his mentor's paw
withdrew from Callie's stomach covered in blood. "What in the hell..." he
whispered.

Thomas Katzenberg had seen both miracles and horrors of medical science, but
as he pulled back the nightgown, his gaze froze as he saw something that defied
even his long years of experience. "Doogie..do you see..?" muttered the elder
healer as he looked at his friend then back at the still form of Calico Briggs.

Douglas indeed noticed what Thomas saw, so shocked that even the use of his
hated nickname didn't even register. "By the ....Thomas..what's going on" he
finally mummered.

Thomas Katzenberg had no answers, not for this. In all his years, he had
never saw anything even close. Before the startled eyes of both tom-kats, several
sets of fresh claw marks appeared on Callie's body, each set jagged and deep as
blood began to seep from the terrible wounds.

Off to one side, the biomonitor began to fade once more..

Seconds ticked by like hours as outside the ICU both Ferals and Sami stood
watching the windowless door, feeling as helpless now as they did a week ago when
Dark Kat almost destroyed their lives and their city. Feral gently laid a
reassuring paw on his niece's shoulder, hoping despite their recent disagreement
she'd still let him comfort her. Getting no adverse reaction, Feral kept his paw
there letting the young she-Kat draw whatever strength she could from him.
Higgins stood next to Felina, her hand clasping Felina's paw tightly as she tried
to ignore the worse case possibilities that kept leaping to the forefront of her
mind. Silently the trio watched as each prayed for Callie's safety in the next
few hours.

*So this is death* Callie accepted as the demonic T-Bone lowered his bone
claw to rip her heart from her bosom. Soon her life would be over and she would
pay for the misery she caused herself and her city. The undead Razor kept her
close to his decayed body, preventing her from moving away as the claw moved
closer..and closer....

Then, suddenly, it froze in place.

An eternity passed before Callie realized she was not dead, lying on the
ground writhing in agony as her soul left the mortal coil. Tentatively she opened
one eye, then the other, and came face to face with the immobile T-Bone, his
jagged claw scraping the outer layer of fur but going no deeper.

Confused, Callie first thought it was a trick to increase her fear, but after
several more seconds neither of her attackers moved. The insane laugher had
stopped and Callie found herself able to move slightly, slipping after much
finessing from Razor's steely grasp. Clutching her side, she staggered away as
fast as she could, stumbling on the hard ground as the two figures faded back
into the mists from which they came.

Unable to take any more, Callie collapsed to the earth and stared up at the
empty sky, awaiting the angel of death to take her to a better place. She closed
her eyes and waited, her breathing softly easing with each breath.
*Not...long..now..* she though, perhaps her last one in this life.

"Calico...."

Opening her eyes, Callie looked around for the voice that called her name, a
moments panic arising as she though it was the reanimated forms of her friends
trying to trick her once more.

"Calico Briggs. You must not give up...." echoed the voice.

"No..I do have to give up. I just want it over.." she whispered, praying for
it all to go away and leave her to die in peace.

"If you give up, Dark Kat has truly won, and all innocents will suffer." said
the voice flatly.

Callie shivered, taken unaware by the feelings the simple comment invoked.
Slowly the she-Kat struggled, fighting blinding pain as the urge to confront the
voice that mocked her became more important than anything else at that moment.
Looking up into the emptiness above her, Callie almost snarled at her unseen
taunter ..."He's already won! Look at Megakat City! You have no right to say what
I should or should not do...."

Slowly a light filled the sky, a bluish-green haze pierced the emptiness. As
if by magic the haze thinned, then vanished without a trace leaving only empty
space surrounding the stunned woman. An orb, not much bigger than a basketball,
descended from the glow and floated several feet in front of Callie.

"On the contrary Ms. Briggs I have every right!" the orb commanded as it
began to shift and change, the smooth sphere melting into an almost Kat-like
form, but with noticeable differences. The figure that began to emerge was almost
6 feet tall, but unlike any Kat Calico had ever seen. Long , white, stringy fur
seemed to hang from the sides of the figure, leaving the top part of the head
bare with no fur at all. A long red robe-much like the one Reverend Katsi wore
for the Swat Kats' funeral- enveloped the being, covering it's feet. Steel blue
eyes gazed at Calico with a youthful fire that was opposite to the aging face
they resided in. More white fur drifted from the creatures chin, giving the being
a look of wisdom that comes with age. Callie began to step back from the horrible
looking creature, sure that is was another monster determined to rip her apart.
Where she had been welcoming death minutes before, now Callie found herself
praying she could live just a while longer if for no other reason to understand
the madness that had recently infected her life.

The creature smiled as it finally settled before her. "Good. The spirit is not
yet willing to pass on. There may be hope for you and your world yet Calico
Briggs."

"Who..what../are/ you??" whispered Callie as she stared at the figure,
wondering how it had read her mind.

"My name is Merklyn, young one. And I am here to give you a great gift."

"W..what kind of gift...?"

The creature simply smiled once more. "Your destiny."

Thomas sighed, stepping out of the ICU unit and began to walk towards the
waiting room at the far end of the hall. *This is not going to be easy..* he
thought, trying to find a way to explain Callie's medical condition without
letting Feral know about the scars that appeared from thin air. *She's already
unconscious, on the verge of a breakdown, and when she finds out about being
replaced...*. Closing his eyes, Katzenberg shook his head, wondering how
everything went so wrong so fast. Finally reaching the lobby, he started to enter
when a young nurse flagged him over.

"Dr. Katzenberg...you've got a call on line one."

"Take a message Meredith, please. I've got to talk to Commander Feral and his
party about Mayor Briggs..."

Meredith smiled, but you could tell by her face that wasn't an option...
"Wish I could sir, but it's Councilman Witwicky."

Thomas stopped in his tracks, feeling as if a great weight had been doubled
on his shoulders, and not from the mental image of Curtis Witwicky's girth..
"Ask..ask him what he wants Meredith.." he softly mummered as he leaned on the
counter for support.

With practiced easy, the RN picked up the phone, took off the hold, and began
with her most professional voice.."I'm sorry Councilman Witwicky, Dr. Katzenberg
is in the middle of a patient conference and can't be disturbed right yet. Might
I take a message?" After a few seconds she began to scribble down notes from the
civic 'leader' and with a confused frown finished. "Yes, sir. I'll make sure he
gets the message as soon as possible. Of course..good bye." With a slightly
annoyed look she hung up the phone and glanced up at Thomas, handing him a
message pad. "Well, he was rude. He wouldn't even give me the real message; just
some crap that he'd said you would understand. " The she-Kat was obviously upset
at not being trusted with something so basic, but Thomas knew there was more to
it than a simple matter of trust. He just wished he could tell Meredith.

"I'll be fine Meredith. You know how politicians like to play mind-games at
times. I'm sure it's nothing more than a carefully disguised attempt for free
health care. " At that, he laughed softly, as the she-Kat smiled as well. "Thanks
for the help.." he muttered, knowing what the pad says but kept a straight face
until she out of sight to begin her rounds. Steadying himself, he read the
message whose coming had been like that of a dreadful shadow, hanging over him
for days.

[Situation understood. Choice reached. Proceed as discussed. Notify 'U' as agreed
upon.]

*This cannot be!* Thomas looked at the letter again and again, praying he had
misread it. But no..it said 'U', no matter how many times he wished otherwise.
Rubbing his temples for a moment, he looked over at the small waiting room and
sighed deeply. **This is not going to be easy at all...** he mentally shook his
head and strode over to the door and slipped from the frying pan into the fire.

Feral looked over as the door opened to see a concerned-looking Doctor
Katzenberg enter. Raising an eyebrow at the blood on his gown, his eyes narrowed
slightly. "Doctor..what is Mayor Briggs situation?"

"Stable, thank whatever powers that be. That first emergency was due to her
unbalanced biochemical situation, and she had an unexpected reaction to one of
the medications. As it is, she's weak and still in critical condition. But she's
alive and that's what's important." He sat down, needing the momentary rest.
Suddenly, his brain clicked that something was missing from the room. Glancing
around, Thomas realized that two of Feral's party were missing. "What happened to
your niece and that other officer?"

"They went to the hospital cafeteria. They didn't want to leave but I
...suggested..they take some time and relax. Both have had a hard day and pushing
themselves won't solve any of our problems. However, Felina would like to know
about the Mayor." Feral started to reach for his radio, and paused. "Doctor..what
did you mean by the 'first' emergency? Was there a problem I should know about?"
he Enforcer commander looked at the doctor quietly.

*DAMN!* thought Katzenberg. "Sorry commander, I should clarify. There was a
second moment of worry when her blood pressure dropped again, but that was due to
a misread on the equipment rather than an actual biological problem." *Whew...*

Feral studied the older man then nodded, sensing there was more to this
addendum than Katzenberg was willing to admit. Not wanting to push the issue at
this second, Feral simply raised the radio and fingered the 'transmit' button.

"Before you call her Commander, we have one other matter to discuss; one that
I need your undivided attention on. " He paused, trying to find the best way to
phrase this... IF there was a best way..." A little while ago, we were discussing
what role you would play when the city council decided on a replacement for
Calico. Well, I just received a phone call that you need to be aware of..."
Thomas started, but was cut off by the exasperated Commander.

"Let me guess: the city council has made a decision on who the new mayor is
and I have to go break the news to him or her, right?" Feral sighed, a small
voice in the back of his mind wondering how much worse this day would get.

A few minutes later, Ulysses Feral found the answer to that very question,
and he would never be the same.

Several minutes before Feral's call came through, Felina and Sami were in the
elevated glass walkway between the main hospital branch and the administrative
wing, which held the cafeteria. Watching the traffic pass by, Felina became very
quite as the city came to life as the night sky darkened. The damaged the city
gained in the attack slowly vanished from sight save for the occasional
flickering of hazard lamps marking holes in the freeway. The city was
almost..normal..in a sense. A soft hand on her shoulder snapped the young she-Kat
from her reprieve.

"Penny for your thoughts roomie..". Sami laughed softly as the look of
playful irritation in Felina's eyes lightened her mood slightly. "I know you hate
me still calling you that, but you have to admit, we did have some fun while it
lasted.."

Felina smiled, despite herself. "A penny huh? You'd get change back."

"Maybe, but it looks like you could use someone to talk to." Sami softly
leaned against the window, making it abundantly clear that she wasn't going
anywhere without helping; even if Felina didn't want her help.

Felina looked at her friend and then turned, studying the city she loved. "It
almost hurts to see Megakat City like this, doesn't it?"

Sami blinked, not quite expecting that as an opening statement. "It does..I
guess. But we'll get everything rebuilt and Dark Kat will pay for his crime. You
know your unc..the commander...will see to that."

At that Felina actually laughed, but it was a laugh without humor. Instead of
happiness, a bitterness seemed to escape her lips. "I'm sure we'll try Sami,
and part of me actually believes we'll make him pay. " Still, Felina stared out
into the night.

"And the other part...?" Sami didn't want to ask, but felt that the answer,
if made known, might unlock some of the mystery Sami found herself drawn into.

Felina looked at her former roommate and current friend. "You really want to
know..?"

Sami's only reply was a soft nod.

Felina sighed and leaned forward. "I don't think we have a prayer of
winning."

Pure shock ran through Sami's mind as Felina's statement sent shivers up her
spine. "What makes you say that Felina? The Enforcers have the best
technology...the best troops. And-despite what many kats think- a commander whose
one of the finest kats I've ever known. " A slow blush crept up Sami's cheeks as
Felina's gaze finally turned from the city before her to the friend beside her.

"While we've got all those things Sami, we don't have the edge. Not anymore.
The time has come for us..and my Uncle..to realize how important the Swat Kats
were to Megakat City. How many times did the Turbokat pull our tails from the
fire? I've lost count how many times they found the solution while we were still
trying to discover the problem. Despite our advance technology and all our
bravery, we couldn't stop Dark Kat and it took the Swat Kats' deaths to give the
opening we needed to bring his airship down. But look at all the destruction he
caused in the short time after we mobilized and before the Swat Kats arrived..."
Felina's voice trailed off a she looked back towards the city.

Sami's mind was in turmoil. She had never expected to hear Felina, of all
people, talk like that. The Enforcers were her life, her family. While she had a
mother and father who loved her deeply, Sami still felt as if the Enforcers were
the brothers and sisters she never had. To hear Felina sound so..defeated..broke
her heart. "Felina..you can't give up.."

"I'm not giving up Sami. No matter what happens I'll be there until the end.
But recent events...have made me realize how important the Swat Kats
are..were..to the city. And with Dark Kat, Viper and the rest still out there,
we're going to be pushed to stop them. We need to admit that to ourselves."

"That may be true Felina, but remember what the Reverend said at the Kats'
funeral. That we should learn from their sacrifice; to defend those who can't
defend themselves. That's what the Enforcers do, what they've always done. I'm
going to honor their memory by doing my job the best I can, and putting Hard
Drive and rest of our so-called super-villains behind bars for a long time. It'll
be tough, but nothing worthwhile ever is." Sami paused, as if she was weighting
something very carefully.. "What are you going to do to honor their memory
Felina...?"

A flash of guilt erupted in Felina's mind as Sami's unexpected question hit
home. Painfully, she remembered how useless her attack on the air carrier was
when Dark Kat first appeared that day. Her 'copters lasers bouncing harmlessly
off the electrostatic shield was still frozen in her mind a week later. Then,
without warning, another thought appeared. Unwelcome and undesired, it was no
more than a foolish wish that had chosen the worse possible moment to reassert
itself. But the thought would not be denied so easily and despite Felina's best
efforts to wipe it from her mind, it only became stronger and clearer than ever
before.

"Felina..Felina.." spoke Sami, trying to snap her friend out of the daydream
that had enveloped her.

"Huh?" Blinked Felina, looking at the younger officer. "Sorry Sami. I must
have zoned out for a moment.."

Sami simply nodded. "It's okay, but the Commander is calling you."

"Felina..are you there?" came Feral's staticy query over Felina's radio.

Picking up her radio, Felina banished the thought and pulled herself together
to responded. "I'm here Uncle."

"I've just been talking to Dr. Katzenberg. You and Officer Higgins can go see
Miss Briggs now, but keep it short. She's still unconscious, but the doctor
thinks having some familiar faces might help bring her around."

"Understood Commander, " replied Felina. "Meet you there?"

"No..not just yet. The doctor and I have other..concerns..to sort out. I will
join you shortly. Feral out."

Felina looked down at Sami, who had a soft smile on her face and a tear in
her eye. "She's alive." stated Felina, and a great weight lifted from her
shoulders. It wasn't a complete recovery, but the cloud that hung over her since
the fight with Calico in the hanger brightened slightly.

At times, Sami could read Felina like a book; others she was a complete
mystery. Right now, she was somewhere in between. She could tell that Mayor
Briggs' recovery was important to Felina, but why was it so important to make her
friend's entire mood shift like it just had? Putting such questions on the back
burner, Sami smiled at her superior.."Go on ahead. I'll catch up." hoping to give
Felina enough time alone with Calico to settle whatever was darkening her mood.

"Thanks Sami, for everything." Felina smiled, and started down the hallway
towards the medical wing.

Standing there, Sami watched her friend depart, then looked at the neon lit
city. Slowly, Sami began to realize how deeply Felina felt about her home, and
how much Dark Kat's attack had angered her. As she turned to go, a random though
caught Sami's attention..*That's weird. The Commander called her 'Miss Briggs '
and not 'Mayor'. Wonder why?* Pondering it for a moment, Sami shrugged and
chalked it up to habit on Feral's part and though no more of it until she reached
Calico's room a few minutes later.



"Ooooh..what the crud..hit me..." moaned Razor as the fever that had
assaulted his body finally broke. Shocked, Callista looked around from the window
she had been looking out to the badly beaten-but alive-Swat Kat who was
struggling to lean up in bed.

"Careful Sir Razor. The fever that hath bedridden you may be gone, but other
sickness might come if you exert yourself too much. Rest now."

Razor blinked..*Sir Razor!!?? Oh..CRUD!* was his first though as the blurry
image slowly focused into that of Queen Callista. "Call..your Majesty..what are
you doing in Megakat City?" Razor leaned up, shivering as the blankets that
covered him fell into his lap, the night air taking him by surprise. "And could
you turn up the heat? It's freezing my tail off..." he softly requested as he
buried himself back under the covers.

Callista looked confused at Razor for a moment, then nodded in understanding.
Walking over, she placed a few more logs into the huge fireplace that heated the
study that had been the Swat Kats recovery room. Soon the heat began to rise, and
Razor started to warm up when he realized one crucial thing..they didn't have a
fireplace at the garage. Feeling a sick nausea in his stomach he looked around
and confirmed his suspicion. "Oh man..we're in Megalith City??"

"Is that so bad, Sir Razor?" Despite a valiant attempt, her disappointment at
his apparent dislike of her city upset the Queen, invoking a hurt she had never
felt before.

Razor realized his mistake and tried to correct it. "Of course not my Queen.
It's just..of all the places I expected to be, Megalith City was not one of them.
I apologize if my rashness offended you or your city, my Queen."

Callista smiled, letting the incident slide. "No apology is necessary my
knight. Perhaps if the roles were reversed, I would be shocked to find myself in
your Megakat City." Properly, Callista sat in the chair beside his bed looking at
him.

Razor blinked and looked around suddenly.."T-Bone!" Frantically he looked at
Callista who leaned over and put a reassuring paw on his shoulder.

"Rest easy Sir Razor. Sir T-Bone is fine. He awoke some time ago. A surprise
to be honest since yesterday he hurled two of my finest guards through a door in
his fevered state. He is bathing at the moment, but should return shortly."

"He did that??" Razor blinked, knowing if T-Bone was hurt half as bad as he
was, that would have been a feat indeed. "Are they..I mean..did he?" Razor
swallowed, knowing how strong T-Bone could be, especially if drunk or
disillusional.

"They are fine. A bit sore but they do not hold fault against him. It was the
sickness, not the Kat." Smiling Callista retracted her hand. "When he returns you
may bathe and I will have the cook prepare a light meal for you and T-Bone."

Razor nodded, not sure how much he could eat with his body aching like it
was, but he knew that he needed something. It felt like a week since he ate
anything. He blinked..*Speaking of which*.. "My Queen..how long have we been here
in Megalith City?"

Callista started to reply, but a deep voice interrupted. "Almost a week
Sureshot, if you can believe it." T-Bone said, his eyes showing he too was still
trying to accept the fact.

**A week** Razor screamed internally. *MegaKat City..oh man..Dark Kat!*
Looking at T-Bone, Razor tried to get up, but his body refused to operate even on
the most basic of levels. Wincing at the pain he slumped back into bed, his eyes
closed as he fought back against the agony. Through clenched teeth he growled at
his partner. "We..gotta..get back bud.."

T-Bone came over and sat on the end of the bed by Razor's feet. "I know, but
between my cracked ribs and your still getting over the feedback blast from the
weapons console, we're not going anywhere for a while. Especially with no
Turbokat." Even as pain blinded his sight, Razor could feel the hurt in T-Bone's
voice over the loss of his beloved jet.

Razor looked at his partner, then at Callista. About to ask the obvious,
Razor was interrupted by a knock on the door (which had been apparently replaced
during the night).

"Enter." commanded the Queen.

The door opened and Sir Nathaniel Steele stood in the hall at attention.
Razor and T-Bone blinked in awe as the Kat that stood before them looked like
David Steel so much it was downright scary. Save for the armor and a scar on his
cheek, Nathaniel looked like David would a few years down the road, if the
Enforcers didn't wind up chucking him down a tank barrel and shooting him into a
mountainside.

"Sir Steel!?" Callista blinked in surprise as Steele was back much too soon
for comfort. The journey to the Darklands, even at full gallop, didn't take less
than a day up and back. Rising from the chair, Callista walked over to her knight
as her eyes narrowed "What has caused you to return early Captain..?" Callista
asked, her tone a bit more disapproving then either Swat Kat had ever heard her
use before.

"Before you chastise the knight Callista, I was the cause." came a ancient
voice from behind Steele. Stepping aside, Nathaniel revealed the results of his
aborted trip to the Darklands.

There in the hall was an ancient Kat, with fur white as snow. Standing maybe
three feet, the old woman wobbled in with a gnarled staff as her only support.
Dressed in tattered brown rags and a matching cloak, the visitor hobbled
diligently towards the fire as her piercing green eyes seemed to take in
everything around her. "I was already coming to the castle Callista when your
knight came across me in the town of Primus. From there it is only a half day
ride, and so we are here early." Stopping by the fire, she sat down a small bag
that had been attached to the top of her staff. Silently, she warmed herself and
looked at Nathaniel. "You may go, good knight. I have much to discuss with your
Queen."

Nathaniel nodded and looked at Callista for confirmation of the order.
Receiving a nod he saluted and departed, casting a wary glance at the two Swat
Kats. Out in the hall, the remaining guards followed their Captain, one pausing
just long enough to shut the door. Then all was silence as the two heroes looked
at the newcomer.

"Arkatta.." Callista began.."you do me a great honor by coming here."

The old Kat turned and smiled. "Perhaps Callista, but you know of my dislike
for the flowing prose that seems to come from mouths when I enter a room. It's
enough to make this old Kat feel sick."

Callista smiled, remembering several times both kings and queens had been on
the receiving end of one of Arkatta's lectures and was grateful she did not fall
into that category. "Of course..I had forgotten." was the simply explanation, and
Arkatta seemed to erase the matter already.

Razor and T-Bone felt totally lost in the situation. They looked at Callista,
then at this 'Arkatta' person who was apparently a big shot around here. Razor
began to ask T-Bone if he understood any of this when he felt Arkatta's gaze on
him.

"These are the two you braved the timestorm for?" It wasn't an accusation,
merely a simple gathering of facts the old woman needed for some reason.

"Yes, they are. If I had not acted, they would have been lost and..."
Callista began to explain, but stopped when a withered paw was raised.

"Believe me Callista, for two such handsome Kats I too would have braved such
dangers, were I several hundred years younger that is.." and her wizened laugh
filled the room, the comment forcing a blush to Callista's cheeks. Razor and
T-Bone just stared as her comment of age began to sink in. "How much have you
told them Callista..?" Arkatta directed to her former pupil once the old
sorceress was able to control her laughter at Callista's embarrassment.

"None yet. I felt you needed to be here."

"Tell us what??" exclaimed T-Bone, nearing the end of his patience.

"Yea..I hate to sound ungrateful Callista, but would someone please fill us
in on what going on??" Razor seldom admitted confusion, but at this juncture he
had no other options.

Arkatta hobbled over to a chair, moving the sack beside her as he lurched
into the seat. "Be at ease warrior. The time has come at last to reveal all." She
watched Razor and T-Bone start to relax, but her eyes narrowed dangerously,
catching them both of guard.."although in the end, you may wish you did not
know.."

A uncomfortable silence filled the room as Callista and her mentor began to
explain.

"I'M WHAT??" roared Feral, nearly falling out of his chair, causing the
windows of the waiting room to rattle incessantly. The large Enforcer just stared
at Thomas, his entire expression showing one of total and absolute shock.

"I'm sorry Commander, to be the bearer of the news..but the vote was nearly
unanimous, and in your favor. You are the new acting Mayor of Megakat City. "

Ulysses Feral had always been a Kat of action. He would see a problem, find
the necessary resources to solve the problem, and act. There was no enemy that
could not be beaten by guts and the right training. But right now, at this
moment, all Ulysses wanted to do was crawl under a rock and never come out. At
least on the inside..outside was much /much/ scarier.

"What in the name of Hell's Nine Lives are they thinking??" raged Feral. "I'm
a soldier, not a damned politician. If this is someone's idea of a joke..."

"I wish it was Commander, but I just got off the phone with Councilman
Witwicky and he was quite serious. I was involved somewhat with their original
list of choices, and I'll admit I'm totally surprised by the result. I though for
sure David Steel would get the vote, considering his..abilities."

Feral looked at Thomas and would have started laughing, if the situation
wasn't so serious. He knew exactly what the doctor meant by 'abilities'; his
connections to several key politicians and public officials. "Steele?? Kats
Alive, he was actually considered?!"

Thomas watched as Feral's eyebrow went up another inch as the though of David
Steele in charge sent shivers through the large Kat. "He was right behind you in
votes Commander. In fact.." Thomas paused, unsure if to mention this bit of
information or not, considering the already volatile situation.

" 'In fact' what.." said Ulysses, very slowly and evenly.

"If you turn down the appointment Commander, he will get it."

"That's blackmail!"

Thomas frowned as Feral kept making this harder than it needed to be.."No, it
is not Commander. Simple political policy in action. You were chosen to replace
Calico or Manx until one recovers. If you do not accept the post, David Steele
will be given the title, due for reasons we both know about. The city council
isn't going to waste time by holding another session. They'll just move down the
list until someone takes the position. And..truth be known..there are several on
the council who have threatened drastic measures if anyone but you was offered.
So..."

"So I take the position and loose direct command of the Enforcers or I refuse
and that idiot Steele gets to be acting mayor and I'll answer to him on
everything.." Feral looked at Thomas as a sick feeling sank into his gut.."IF I
take the position, who is in charge of the Enforcers?"

At that, Thomas Katzenberg actually smiled. "I think that would be up to the
acting Mayor."

Feral blinked, and sighed as he sat back down. Despite his best efforts,
there appeared to be no way out. Shaking his head, he glanced up at Katzenberg.
"One question. Why me?"

Thomas sat down, looking at the slightly overwhelmed Kat..."Your reputation.
Despite everything else Commander, you are respected for the job you do in a
crisis situation, and Megakat City certainly falls into that category in this
point of time. You understand the necessity to balance resources and achieve the
most you can with what you have, while helping the most you can with each
decision. That's all basically politics, when you remove the bulls..." Catching
himself, he paused to let Feral weigh his options. Frowning, Thomas..not for the
first time of late..realized how much he hated political games and wished he
could spare himself-and Feral-the tired dealings that seemed to be a necessary
evil at best, and a downright pain in the tail at worse. **But..* he thought..**I
don't see any other way..**

Feral stood up and began to pace, looking at nothing as his thoughts were
turned inwards to make sense of the situation. Suddenly, a look of realization
crossed his face. "Doctor...it's been about a week. According to your estimates,
Mayor Manx should be close to recovery from his coma."

Thomas sighed, realizing that Feral was grasping at nonexistent straws.
"Perhaps, but that was a best guess estimate. A coma has no timetable with which
to go by. As long as Manx continues to recover at his present rate, he could
resume office by the end of the year. However.."

"However, " began Douglas Katzer, who stood in the door frame silhouetted by
the bland fluorescent lights in the hall behind him. "That's not an option anymore
sirs. Mayor Manx just passed away a few minutes ago."

Feral and Thomas exchanged shocked looks, as the latter stood up and walked
over to his protege.."What happened Douglas?? His life signs were stable.."

The young Kat sighed, wishing to not be the bearer of such news, but in his
heart he knew otherwise. "They were sir, but his heart seemed to just give out.
We tried everything from Sheridium 5 to plain old adrenaline. Nothing helped. I
am so sorry sir..." Douglas let his voice fade as he saw the saddened look on his
mentor's face. "I'll leave you for the moment sirs, and I'll have a full report
on your desk in an hour Thomas."

Thomas simply nodded and smiled at Douglas for a brief moment, then turned
back to Feral, who had sat back down dejected, as if his last, best hope had just
been snatched from his hand. Slowly the former Enforcer commander looked out the
window, and wondering how he was going to explain this to Felina.

"M..my destiny??" Calico looked at the creature known as Merklyn with a mix
of confusion and wariness.

"Yes, child. There are things you need to know..and decisions you must make
soon, for the good of yourself and your city. Perhaps even your world." Merklyn
looked at the young she-Kat, hoping his own worries were not showing through.

"Why should I believe anything you say? For all I know, your the one who
brought me here to this..whatever..and created those two abominations to attack
me." Callie balled her fists at Merklyn, determined to find out what the hell was
going on, no matter the cost to herself.

"I did not bring you here. You brought yourself."

"What??"

"This place.." Merklyn paused, a fur-less arm emerging from the red cloak.
Slowly he waved it around, as if to point out the realm Callie found herself
in..." is where all beings come when the choice between life and death must be
made. It is here that the demons of the past must be faced; where the will to
survive is forged, or the desire to be at peace is welcomed. You, Calico Briggs,
are at that juncture."

"I don't ..you mean, I have to decide if I want to live or not? And
those..things..that used to be T-Bone and Razor were my demons that I had to
face?" Callie shook her head, knowing that she must have failed this most
important of tests. Painfully, her plea to die echoed in her mind as she felt
herself sicken at the ease of which she caved into her greatest fear.

"Do not hold yourself accountable for failure yet Calico. Yes, you asked to
die; but in truth many seek that way at first, only to find the strength to go on
and deny their earlier misjudgment."

"Then..I still have a choice??" Callie looked at the ancient being with a
growing sense of trust, but not knowing why.

"You do, but before you make that choice, there are..things..you need to
know."

"Like what?"

"Your destiny was foretold many years ago Calico Briggs. You were to be a
great user of magic, a warrior on the side of justice. Megakat City would have
peace due to you and those you called Swat Kats working together. An almost
golden age would exist now, had it not been for the one you call the Pastmaster."

"What does the Pastmaster have to do with any of this!?" Callie blinked,
confused as to where the Pastmaster figured into all of this situation.

"Ironically, nothing directly, but due to his incessant attempts to bring his
time to yours, the natural flow of what was to be was forever changed. The
situations that lead to your empowerment never occurred, and thus your full
potential was never reached. That, coupled with the rapid advances in science.."
he paused , saying the last word with venom.." kept your worlds forces of magic
at bay until now, when it is nearly too late." Stopping, Merklyn watched quietly
as the she-Kat absorbed what she had heard.

"Nearly too late for what?" she had to ask.." this..whatever..that you said
threatens Megakat City?"

The ancient wizard nodded. "Yes. A great battle will soon be joined, but your
Enforcers will not be able to stop the tide of evil as it comes to pass. Unless
you are there..armed with magic..to stop the one you call Dark Kat, all hope
could well be lost."

Callie bristled at the mention of that most hated name. "But..what can /I/
do?? I don't..you said that I was supposed to have powers but I can't now.
There's nothing I can do.."

"That is true to a point. However, if you are will to risk everything you
hold dear, there might be a way to give you the powers you need to save your city
and countless lives in the process."

"But if my worlds' magic has been weakened, then how...??" Callie grasped for
answers, seeking some light..some hope...at the end of the tunnel of confusion
she found herself in.

Merklyn walked (although it almost looked like he floated) over to Callie and
placed his hand upon her shoulder. "I can give you the magic of /my/ home world
to use in defense of yours."

"W..what??" Callie paled, looking as if someone just walked over her grave.

Seeing the startled expression on her face, Merklyn pulled back, realizing
the need to use caution from here on out.."Perhaps..first.. it would be better if
I told you how I came to be, then you might understand why this must be done."

Callie simply nodded and 'sat' down, floating in space as the tale began.

"Many years ago, before your world had life upon its surface, my world of
Prysmos was in its own golden age. Though it was one of technology, the planet
had no war or famine. Crime was almost a memory and everyone enjoyed a life of
comfort and ease for nearly seven thousand years. But, it was not to last. As
foretold, our three suns aligned and the resulting release of energy nullified
technology all over the planet. Over the next several years, my magic was able to
grow and expand until the time came to pass it along to those with the vision to
rebuild our world in this new age. In the end, twelve knights were chosen and I
bestowed a portion of my powers to each side, one representing the forces of
'good' and the other the forces of 'evil'.

"But why give power to those who might use it for evil? That would only lead
to trouble that you could avoid all together."

Merklyn nodded, a look of wishful agreement in his eyes.."For every amount of
good, there must be an equivalent of evil. The cosmic scales must balance. The
two sides must work out differences between them, or the imbalance would be worse
than the evil itself. If there were no good, evil would run across the universe
unchecked, and if there was no evil, good might turn in upon itself and do more
damage than the evil it fought. It makes no sense, but seldom does the universe
appear orderly to we who pass through it so briefly."

Callie contemplated this for a moment, and nodded in understanding. Although
she knew there was more to this than met the eye Callie felt compelled hear more
of the story.. "So what happened Merklyn? Did your knights of good win?"

At that, Merklyn laughed disdainfully. "There were no winners my dear.
Several years after the cataclysm, I sent both the Spectral Knights and the
Darkling Lords on a quest to recover four talismans in order to increase my
powers to combat a great evil just beginning to emerge."

Callie looked at the ancient wizard, entranced by the story. "What
happened...?" she felt that the answer would be dark, but part of her had to
know.

The wizards' features darkened at the terrible memories. "The gods of fate
were angry at us, my dear. In a supreme twist of irony, our world began to
disintegrate. The shift from science to magic proved too much for the planet and
even with two of the four talismans, my power was not enough to keep our world
from tearing itself asunder. We only had one option; to gather all the magic of
my world and banish it completely. Then and only then would the planet begin to
heal. "

Her jaw dropped to the floor as Callie listened in part pity and fear as the
old kat's (for lack of a better term) eyes closed. Slowly, his voice began again.

"We succeeded, but with no magic on Prysmos, there was no need for me
anymore. I joined the gathered magic, including that of the Darkling Lords and
the Spectral Knights and banished myself..and the Orb..to the limitless reaches
of time and space." Merklyn stopped, his eyes opening to reveal a haunted look
that would be forever etched in Callie's mind forever.

"But..how did you survive..and how do you know about me??"

"I can not tell you that right now. Suffice it to say, certain events drew me
to your world and as I saw your planet grow and evolve, I began to hope that I
would be useful once more. But in time, I realized if I interfered, that
interference would change what should be and that I can not do."

"But..if giving me these powers your talk of..isn't that changing what should
be?"

"No!" Merklyn yelled, catching Callie totally off guard. Seeing her reaction,
the wizard pulled back and reformed his icy composure. "No, my dear. I only seek
to correct a right put wrong by the Pastmaster. Perhaps..in a small way..my
planet's magic will live on in you. .." he paused, remembering what she had yet
to decide.."if you choose to help. "

Callie 'stood' up and floated over to Merklyn, and looked at him intently. "I
want to..but..it's all so..I mean..why me? Just because I am supposed to have
some kind of powers doesn't mean I'm the best choice.. surely there's someone
else you could..."

Merklyn focused on Callie..."Now what will they do..now who will protect
those who could not protect themselves..?" his ancient voice never wavered, solid
as an iron mountain.

As if a physical blow had struck, Callie staggered, her own thoughts at the
funeral being spoke out loud for the first time. Image flashed across her mind as
her friends..family..loved ones were incinerated by a beam of light coming from a
huge floating airship high above Megakat City; her city in rubble as an all too
familiar laugh filled her ears as it mocked everything she believed in. The laugh
grew and grew until it was all she could hear, tormenting her over and over,
leaving her powerless to stop it and its owner. **No..not powerless..not now..**
a small voice deep in her mind said, cutting through the mental anguish and
giving her a clarity she had not possessed for a very long time. The agony
fading, Callie looked at Merklyn but knew deep down the wizard could not help her
now; everything she held close rested on her shoulders alone. Her future, the
future of Megakat City. Everything. A thousand thoughts filled her mind as the
chance for redemption fought against the need for peace. Closing her eyes, the
images began to intensify faster and faster, her mind racing to stay ahead of the
myriad fears that threatened to overtake her.

Only the Goddess knew how long the internal conflict lasted, but after what
seemed like an eternity a soft voice broke through the confusion and reached the
part of Callie's mind that still remember what she had to decide..."It is time,
Calico Briggs. What is your choice...?"

Sami stood in shock as her mind tried to fathom what she had inadvertently
overheard. *Felina lied to her uncle??!!*.

The awestruck she-Kat listened intently as Felina's confession to the still
unconscious Calico Briggs had an unintentional eavesdropper. She hadn't meant to
hear, but Sami's arrival at the cracked door had been an example of perfect,
though bad, timing.

"I didn't want all this to happen Callie. You..I /need/ you to know that.."
Felina softly said as she sat beside her friend. "But after what we saw below the
salvage yard, during out fight..I had to protect Jake and Chance. I know they're
gone..but if my uncle found out, their legacy could have been tarnished ..and
that..it'd be like loosing them all over again, only this time I would have been
the one to pull the trigger and not Dark Kat." She sighed, her head in her hands
for a moment.

Callie lay silent to Felina's anguish, but somehow-on a level Felina didn't
understand-she /had/ to tell Callie. She didn't know why, but her honor demanded
no less. "But then..he put an APB out on them Callie. Can you believe it!? Not
only do we loose T-Bone and Razor, but because I lied about what really happened
to put us in the hospital, my uncle still found a way to blame the Swat Kats,
even without knowing their secret identities!" Felina gently slammed her fist
into her paw, incensed on how everything was turning out. "All I wanted to do was
help try to ease your pain. When I saw you there..on the floor of their house.."
. The enforcer paused, the memories of what really happened that night flooding
over her, drowning her in a sea of confusion.

"Who Callie..who did you.. kill??" Felina asked softly. She knew Callie
could never kill anyone; her heart told her that much. But to see Callie like
this.. teetering on the brink of emotional shutdown..was something she never
expected to see in this life. Mentally she braced herself for the answer.

"Don't you see!? I killed the Swat Kats!"

"No..no your didn't Callie. It was Dark Kat. He was the one who kidnapped
you. Remember..we learned by monitoring his radio transmissions that he was going
to use you as insurance against the Swat Kats attacking.." Felina took a step
closer, praying that some part of Calico's mind still hung onto logic and that
her arguments would ease the troubled she-Kat.

"NO! You don't understand damn it! How could you?! Were you there, seeing it
all? NO! You were in your little jet, flying around acting brave while I was
fighting for my lift in that damn ship!" Callie spat at Felina, her words hurting
the young Enforcer more than a physical attack could have done.

"That's not fair Briggs! We lost 6 good kats on our initial attack;
Enforcers with families and loved ones! We were out there fighting for our lives,
just like you were!" Felina balled her fists and felt a massive surge of anger
erupt in her mind, but forced it down with a visible exertion of will. *It's the
despair, not the Kat talking Felina...* she kept telling herself.

No..NO! You don't understand!.." screamed Callie as she took another step
back from Felina. Her mind raced feverishly trying to find a way to escape from
the corner she found herself backed into, both geographically and mentally.
Narrowing her eyes, she glared at Felina.."You don't understand..you CAN'T
understand..so leave me the hell alone!!" With that, Callie launched herself at
Felina, tackling the startled Enforcer with her adrenaline-enhanced might. Caught
off guard, Felina found herself waging a defense battle against Callie, whose
momentum carried them both into a door frame, the side stopping Felina's backward
movement HARD.

"D..damn!" screamed Felina as her shoulder winced in agony as every effort
to get away from Callie met with sharp claws swishing by her face, or a fist
trying to land a telling blow to her gut. Callie swung again, but Felina dropped
to a crouch and punched a fist right into her opponent's stomach, catching Calico
off guard and sent the stunned Mayor backwards.

"WITCH!" raged Callie as she narrowed her eyes, the part of her that might
have been able to be reasoned with now awash with anger. She charged Felina,
trying to land a blow to her head, all thoughts of friendship gone.

Felina prepared for another charge and accepted it, trying to use Callie's
forward momentum to flip her over the shoulder and on her back so the force of
the blow would knock the wind out of the desperate she-Kat. What Felina was not
prepared for was the sudden feeling of momentary free fall as Callie's blow,
which had shoved Felina against the wall, resulted in that wall suddenly swinging
open and both women landed hard upon a set of unforgiving stairs. Having the wind
knocked out of her instead of Callie, Felina could do nothing but hold the
struggling she-Kat best she could as both bounced down the long flight of hidden
stairs. Crash-landing at the bottom, the two combatants found themselves in pitch
darkness, both too sore and beat up to continue the fight.

As Felina landed, the corner of something slammed into her side with such a
force that her uniform and fur together were not enough to prevent several of her
ribs from being efficiently cracked clean into. A sharp whimper escaped her lips
as this injury-combined with her shoulder-proved too much to handle, and Felina
promptly blacked out. Calico looked up from her own landing spot atop a group of
barrels and moaned as she tried to reach Felina, but wound up sliding off onto
the cold concrete floor. As darkness began to claim her, Callie's last though was
of her actions, and how she had killed the only Kat left she could trust.

Then all became quiet.

*Oh crud, this is gonna hurt* was Felina's first though after waking from
her impact-induced rest. Slowly her eyes adjusted to the low light and she
struggled to stand, but a burst of pain from her side nearly caused her to black
out once more. Slowly the she-Kat stopped, waiting for the agony to pass. A moan
from nearby caught her attention as she looked towards the noise. "C..Callie...?"
she called into the darkness.

Another moan was her reply as Calico Briggs was in no shape to be awake, let
alone coherent. Unknown to her friend, Callie's body was raging with miswired
body functions as her white blood count was dipping close to critical. Unseen by
modern medicine, a long dormant genetic code moved through her DNA rewriting it
as her body fought the attack. Diverting all energies to self-preservation,
Callie's brain activity levels soared higher than ever, the creeping agony in her
blood and bone more intense than anytime in the past week. A whimper escaped her
lips as she mentally cried out for help, but her body was too involved to aid
physically.

Felina stumbled and fought back tears that pooled in the corner of her
eyes. With every ounce of will she took a tentative step..then another, until she
was upright in the dark room. "Can't..see too good..even with my eyes. I need
some light.."

Suddenly, the lights in the hanger came to full intensity as a metallic
voice rang out, nearly making Felina reach for her blaster until the pain stopped
that idea.

^^Vocal Identification. .confirmed. Lieutenant Felina Feral. Enforcer
Identi-code 8406593. Level two commands--on-line. Require second vocal
confirmation for level one access.^^

Felina blinked as the sudden illumination caught her totally off guard,
causing her to shut her eyes in pain until several minutes later she could open
them once again and see who, or what, had spoken. Glancing around the large
hanger, Felina spotted a small video screen with a keyboard mounted into the wall
underneath. Next to that on the right was a small speaker, which apparently is
what the synthesized voice came from. Confusion filled her thoughts as she stared
at the room around her.

Missiles of every description were stored in a wall off to one side. A
workbench lay partially buried under mounds of unfinished electronic components.
But it was the twin lockers that caught her eye, and held her breath for long
seconds. There, inscribed on small metal plates above the air vents were two
names she knew all too well--'Razor' and 'T-Bone'.

Like a tidal wave of biblical proportions, the realization engulfed Felina
totally. Jake Clawson and Chance Furlong were Razor and T-Bone. *How could have
been so blind?!* Felina yelled at herself, forgetting that hindsight is always
20/20. *The only place we never checked..all that salvage /would/ have made the
TurboKat..and Razor's missiles. Goddess..so that's why Callie..CALLIE!* her mind
screamed as she turned towards the barely conscious she-Kat sprawled painfully on
the concrete floor. Walking over she pushed all thoughts of the Kats aside and
knelt down, ignoring the massive pain shooting through her body and tried to help
Callie up. Slowly the Mayor began to stir and as her eyes opened, a soft smile
passed her lips.

"Your..alive.." Callie noticed, tears running down her cheek as another
lancet of pain swept through her body. Her hands clutched at Felina's shoulders
for strength to hold on a little while longer.

^^Vocal Identification. .confirmed. Deputy Mayor Calico Briggs. Social
Identification Number 5168904. Level one commands--on-line.^^ Again the computer
voice broke the silence with its cryptic message.

Callie looked up at Felina, her eyes betraying the confusion she felt as the
computer voice finished. The Enforcer shook her head and tried to life Callie
up.."Not time to answer what's going on, we've gotta get you to Mega..." she
started to lift Callie to her shoulder for support when a ghost's voice resonated
throughout the hanger.

"Callie..Felina..we need to talk." came Razor's voice as a stunned Felina
Feral and Calico Briggs looked up. On the video monitor, Jake and Chance's faces
smiled down upon the two bewildered heroines.

Slowly Felina looked away from the window of Callie's hospital room, tears
running down her race as she remembered with all-to-vivid detail the implications
of the gifts Jake and Chance had left behind.

"I wish you were awake Callie. I could use your help on deciding what to do.
I mean..the guys..they wanted us to give what they had left to my Uncle so the
Enforcers could a slight edge, at least for a little while. And when you get
better, we can help each other with the Glovatrix's they built for us." Felina
paused, wiping her eyes. "Why didn't they tell us Callie? I know Chance said they
wanted to, but couldn't because if my Uncle found out we'd both be implicated for
aiding and abetting". Reaching down, Felina took Callie's limp paw into her own,
still unaware her heartfelt confession was being heard by her closest friend only
hidden by a slightly cracked door. "But how can I give my Uncle what Chance
wanted us to? With the warrants on them, everything they did..everything they
stood for will be forgotten by the ramifications of their true identities."

Outside in the deserted hallway, Sami stood in awe of the ramifications being
made only a feet away. *Jake and Chance were the Swat Kats!?* Her mind reeled at
the thought of the disgraced former Enforcers being the beloved Swat Kats.
Shaking her head, she wanted to talk to Felina face to face..to learn more of
what happened in that hidden hanger, but the logical part of her mind realized
that this struggle could not be solved easily; that friendship and loyalty would
not overcome this enemy alone.

Going back to her place, Sami listened as Felina continued to bare her soul
to the unconscious Calico Briggs.

You sent for me sir??" inquired the smooth talking Lieutenant David Steele as
he stood before Commander Feral in the private office Thomas had be gracious
enough to loan to the besieged Enforcer. Slowly, Feral's almost-cold gaze rested
upon the young upstart, who began to sweat profusely.

"Yes, I did Steele. Now listen carefully, because I'm on going to say this
once." Feral looked down at the Kat and sighed softly *because if I say it more
than once, I'll going to realize what I'm doing and throw up..*. Feral watched as
Steele looked as if a giant anvil was about to fall on top of him.

"Y..ye..yes s..sir.." muttered the Enforcer.

"As of this date, you are.." pausing, Feral watched as Steele turned a
not-too-good looking shade of green. After gathering his own strength Ulysses
resumed..."you are promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Commander and are in charge
of all Enforcer duties until such time I can resume those duties." Feral felt
himself pale, but nothing compared to the young Enforcer who looked as if he were
getting ready to faint.

"S..S..Sir...?" was all Steele could muster for a reply.

Feral leaned over the table and locked his gaze with the Kat before him.
"It's very simple Steele. The city council has named me acting mayor and due to
the city charter, the Mayor can not hold any position of military power while in
office, so in short, your /IT/ Lieutenant Commander."

David's eyes began to light up as the realization set in. Quickly he saluted
and that irritating grin spread over his face. "I won't let you down Sir! I'll do
everything in my power to..." he began, but froze when Feral rose up to his full
height and glared down at him, his eyes as cold as ice.

"Now you listen to me Steele, and you listen good! I have had it with your
snide remarks, and countless excuses. Good Kats are going to be out there risking
their lives to protect MegaKat City. Every decision you make could lead to
victory or defeat David!"

Steele blinked. *David? That's the first time he's ever....*

"Everyday, the lives of your troops are going to hang in the balance. You
must be decisive in your actions, strong in your beliefs, and true to your
convictions. You must expect the unexpected daily and believe that you can win,
no matter how hopeless it looks. Your strength will be their strength; your fears
their fears. This is not a game anymore David, if it ever was. You have the most
precious duty to protect our city..our home. " Ulysses paused, his eyes seemingly
looking into David Steele's soul and beyond. "I want your promise David. Here.
Now. No matter what happens, you /must/ give everything../EVERYTHING/ you have.
No half measures or weak attempts. Will you give me your word, Lieutenant
Commander?" Feral quieted, watching the expressions dance across Steele's eyes.

Deep in the young tom-Kat, he knew the elder Enforcer was right. Throughout
all of his 'career' he had been a joke, earning rank due to his family
connections and not with his deeds. He never cared before now how it might make
him look, but that was before all the lonely nights in the barracks as his
fellows went out, dated..did all the things that friends do. Always it was David
Steele who was left out..alone. The outcast. Some had tried, but they were just
using him to get more rank. Wasn't they? Then he was so sure, but now...? Was
this the second chance he always wanted..to start over and be the person he
secretly wanted to be, or would he fall back into what he was, less than he
/knew/ he could be..? Moments passed like eons until some part of his mind nudged
him, warning him that Comm..Mayor Feral finished and was waiting for a reply.
Looking up he noticed the fierce gaze and, much to the shock of himself as much
as Feral, met it back with an equally determined look.

"I am a Steele, Ulysses! We helped found this town; took a barren patch of
land and turned it into a paradise. From nothing, my family helped forge the
future that we now live in. My grandfather gave his life in MegaWar I to protect
the innocent and I will be damned if I will let anything happen to /my/ city, or
do anything to tarnish the memory of my family. From this moment on I will do
whatever it takes to protect this city, and Goddess help the poor bastards who
stand in my way!" David paused, then leaned over on the desk, as eye-to-eye as he
could be with Feral's noticeable height difference. "Is that good enough for you
Mayor, or do I need to give you my resignation here and now??"

Neither Kat moved or breathed. Feral was shocked and surprised by the sudden
depth of conviction emanating from the young Kat who hours ago would have stood
there fidgeting until a passable answer was given. Now Feral saw no trace of that
indecisive Kat, but rather a warrior with both steel and heart as his weapons.
**His backbone finally found the light switch** mused Feral as he looked at the
Enforcer before him. Pulling himself back up, Feral nodded only once to David and
offered his paw. "Congratulations Lieutenant Commander. I'll make the official
announcements tomorrow."

Steele looked at the paw as the words digested into his brain. A small part
of who he was tried to reassert itself, but was quashed by the new David Steel
that stood before the new Mayor of MegaKat City. Taking the offered paw in a firm
grip, David shook, his gaze or grip never faltering. "Thank you sir. Now..if you
excuse me, I do need to begin reviewing status sheets and current troop
deployment."

"Of course. Dismissed." Feral began, but smiled ever so slightly as Steele
began to go.. "David?" he said softly.

"Sir?" Steel glanced back, worried about his new responsibilities. Seeing an
almost quirky expression in Feral's eyes, he raised one eyebrow.

"Dinner. D'Kattios. My treat. Last decent meal your going to get for a
while." Feral smiled and almost laughed.

David was shocked, but held in the surprise at the offer. "Thank you
com..Mayor. I'll see you soon." With that, David Steele left the building bound
for Enforcer Headquarters and the pile of paperwork that awaited his arrival.

Sitting back down, Feral looked around the office and closed his eyes, trying
to sort out everything that had transpired over the past few hours. The death of
Mayor Manx. Calico laying unconscious in a room not far away. His niece attacked
by those two mechanics, who still had not been found. Him being Mayor; Steele
becoming commander of the Enforcers. It was all leading to..something..he felt.
He knew that in his bones, but what that exactly was seemed to be in the paws of
the powers that be, and Feral didn't expect any revelations soon.

Sighing, he got up and walked out the office and down to the room where
Calico rested, the real battle of the evening looming dangerously close. He had
to tell Felina why he did what he did, and hoped that she would trust his
judgment, if not the reasons themselves. Shutting the door, Feral disappeared
around a corner towards a small room that held the past; but more so than Ulysses
Feral would ever know.

Deep in a mountain stronghold, two words were muttered from evil lips. No
grand verbose prose, no dogma erupting to enflame others. Just two simple words
that signaled the beginning of the end. Dark red eyes played over holographic
scenes of Pumadyne, Megakat Biochem and Megatron labs. Then they drifted to other
eyes, both natural and abominations of science as the words pierced the night.

"It's time."