Chapter Thirteen

"Talking"

'Thoughts'

Kazuma's piercing blue eyes bounced from his captain and to the deputy mayor as if watching a tennis match. The energy of the room had changed dramatically after those few words had been spoken.

Both females looked ready to shred one another physically but manners and training kept them rooted to their respective spot in the room...so far.

Kazuma was enjoying every moment of this verbal cat fight and was using his cell phone secretly, to record the event as well as let Karel and Antonio listen in. He didn't know why she fights were so entertaining to males, but it was a fact of life. The three Saharas males would be making bets on who would win this fight and he had the front row seat.

"Of course we haven't discounted the smaller criminal element but they aren't trying to take over the city wholesale..." Callie began insulted and angry.

"Oh really? Well you might be interested in knowing a couple of gangs and mob families have organized and have been gradually taking over all aspects of your city right under your very nose." Kazuma said seriously.

"What?"

"You're pathetic! You and the Mayor have paid so much attention to the occasional depredations of the omegas that you're totally blind to a greater danger already seeping through all parts of the city, strangulating it while you blithely go along thinking things are running so smoothly. The enforcers are doing their best to stem the tide but Manx has effectively cut their funds ruthlessly so they can't adequately police the city as it should be." Urable snarled.

"And that's because he's in their back pocket," Kazuma dropped the bomb.

Callie staggered back and gaped at them. "No way...he couldn't be, he's a coward..." she stuttered in denial.

"Oh yeah, he's definitely that alright, that's why the mob and gang leaders are able to make him do what they want...that and Manx's excessive greed." Kazuma snorted.

"But I keep track of all income to Manx's accounts and the city's…I would have noticed…" Callie objected, going over in her mind the many accounts she monitored. There was no way Manx could be getting extra money past her unless, "...unless he was using untraceable outside accounts," she said slowly.

"Of course he was. Just because he is a coward in many ways, doesn't mean he isn't stupid. He's greedy and so are others of the council. They have been taking kickbacks and bribes to keep their noses out of certain illegal but lucrative ventures that line their pockets while undermining the city's government. They simply don't care how much harm they do as long as they can live the high life. And you failed to see it." Urabe said scathingly.

Callie could only gape at her in dismay and shock as she backed away until her legs struck the only other chair in the room and sat rather abruptly.

"Others council members?" Callie asked in disbelief.

Kazuma took that as a signal to step toward the coffee table and drop a pile of folders on it then stepping back again.

Callie eyed him warily before reaching for the first folder on top. She opened it and skimmed the contents. A picture of Councilkat John Heaton stared up at her. Other pictures showed Heaton inside an underground brothel with an underage female in his arms. More of that age sat around him.

"I'm sure you remember Heaton's complaints during council meetings about the brothels and how he wanted the Enforcers to clean up his district but when the Enforcers would show up all the evidence would just disappear?" Urabe asked silkily, amused at how Briggs was shocked and disgusted by what she was seeing in the file.

"Yes," Callie reluctantly answered. Heaton would sit there and rail at how ineffective the Enforcers were at fixing the problem and here she finds out, he was the reason it wasn't getting fixed at all. It was all for show!

"He is just one of several corrupt council members who thumb their noses at you while blithely going about their business. I bet it was Manx himself who told you to ensure Heaton was informed of any raids before they happened so he could warn them before the Enforcers could arrive." Kazuma jumped in, Urabe rubbed it in, crossing her arms and legs as she pretended to relax.

"But the council members and Manx are not the only ones being a dishonest person here. You have been a naughty she-kat yourself. You consider yourself above the law apparently when you aid and abet the likes of the SWAT Kats over the legitimate law of the city." Urabe took up the thread again, reaching into her pocket for a small recorder. Waving it before Callie's green eyes making her focus on it and nothing else.

"If we were to hand this over to the city prosecutor's office, what so you think would happen to you and the SWAT Kats?" she asked, but continued on, not allowing Callie to answer, "Well, at the very least, the vigilantes would be jailed and you would be removed from your position, leaving the city at the complete mercy of the sharks that run it now."

Callie was stunned at how much these two knew about her and the city's government woes. She sat still, not responding because what they said was true. She had no defense and didn't know what to do next. It was obvious the gold eyed warrior was happy to point out all her faults. However, despite the female's glee at catching Callie in the wrong, it appeared neither she nor her companion were going to turn her over to the Enforcers. So what did they want?

"You seemed to know an awful lot about our problems but I know nothing about you nor why you're telling me all this. I'm assuming you have no intention of turning me in so what do you want?" she asked calmly, leaning forward to stare at them over her glasses.

"I want you to pay for what you've done to the Enforcers but my wishes have been over ruled. So despite what you have done, certain powers that be, believe you would be a better choice as mayor for this city than any person we could persuade to run," Urabe said her obvious disdain showing in her eyes at this decision.

Callie couldn't help but smile inside, both in relief and at the thought of being mayor. However, outwardly she showed no emotion. "It's nice to be thought of as acceptable as the new mayor but with all the illegal backing you say Manx has, how am I supposed to succeed in wresting his position from him? It's obvious to me now why all those that tried before, failed."

"Unlike those other that tried, we've made Manx aware of how displeased we are with him and gave him hard evidence of his own misbehavior," the blue eyed warrior interjected.

Inwardly, Callie could guess what strong armed methods they'd used on that poor excuse of a civic leader. She doubted it was as civil as the conversation she was having with them now. So, what did they offer him to make him step down? She got her answer a moment later when the golden eyed warrior spoke again.

"In return for his own dirty laundry not being aired to the public or the Enforcers, Manx has agreed to do his own work rather than foist it on you. He's been warned to clean house or suffer the consequences. The same offer is being given you now. Promise to actually help the city withing the law and nothing of your bad behavior will come to light."

"So its blackmail to ensure we do as you instruct because the moment we fail to obey we'll be turned into the Enforcers, eh?" Callie hated the idea. Any form of blackmail was wrong but she had no options here. So accepting what amounted to a collar and leash was what she had to do to protect her future and the future of Megakat City.

Neither warrior responded, just stared at her intently.

Sighing she nodded. "Before I agree, I do have a question. Apparently, whoever you represent has been watching the city for some time. Why interfere now...what took you so long?"

Urabe snorted, a smile of triumph hidden by her mask as she answered. "We made a deal with Mayor Manx years ago that if we helped him win as Mayor that first time, he would keep the city safe. We watched for years and at first, he did do what he promised but gradually we noted he greed turned him away from the right path. Why it took so long is our business, suffice it to say, we're back now to set things straight. Our only goal here is to protect the innocent of this city and restore the honor the government once held."

"We're aware working with a collar and leash can be difficult but that is your only option. Do agree to our terms...yes or no?" Kazuma was the one to ask.

"I accept." Giving the only answer she could. If it would restore the city to its once former pristine self then she was all for it, even to becoming Mayor which hadn't been her goal at all. Once in office, she would immediately clean house and begin funding all those services Manx had deliberately and chronically short changed for years...like the Enforcers. However, there was still one problem.

"But what about the SWAT Kats? What are your plans for them? I would be willing to risk my career if I could be assured they would be safe when all this is over," she said firmly.

Her answer seemed to anger the gold eyed one who leaped to her feet and stormed off toward the sliding glass doors. She shoved the curtains aside violently, opened the door and stepped outside, closing the door behind her with a sharp clack.

Obviously, the female didn't care for the SWAT Kats at all. A heavy sigh brought her attention back to the other black figure who was looking towards the ceiling just for a fleeting moment then back at her.

"Normally, we would hand them over to the law to be dealt with, but again, the powers that be, have instructed us to leave them be," he said. Though his manner was grave, she heard a note of happiness in his voice that told her he had been happy with that choice.

"Good, I was worry about them," Callie sighed in relief.

"It hardly matters anyway as they won't have much to do when things are settled," Kazuma added, smirking behind his mask.

"What…what do you mean?" Callie asked, confused.

"Sorry, but I feel I've overstaying my welcome. Time to go. Just keep in mind, we will be watching you. Should you step out of line, we will be back. Also, tell the SWAT Kats they will be having a great deal of free time on their paws soon."

Something clicked in Callie's mind as she quickly stood up and pointed at him accusingly. "You! It was you people who helped the Metallikats get away!"

Kazuma straightened to his full height and glared at her making her sit again in consternation and a little fear. "Not helped escape, Ms. Briggs...taken care of! There's a difference."

With that, he turned and headed for the balcony himself. Leaving the baloney door open, he and his partner vanished silently into the night.

Callie didn't move for several minutes as the cool evening air disturbed the curtains and wafted over her making her shiver. Only then did she bolt to her feet, go to the door, shutting and locking it, then swiftly drawing the curtains back across.

That down and feeling more secure again, she wandered back to her seat and sat down. She stared at the folders still laying on the table. Shaking her head, she reached down for her handbag still sitting against the chair leg and drew out something from it. Holding the small device to her mouth, she flicked the switch and spoke.

"SWAT Kats, can you hear me?" Callie called, then waited.

"T-Bone here, Ms. Briggs. Something wrong?"

"You might say that."

*~*~*~*~**~*~*~*

The next morning shone bright and warm. It was the weekend and Jake Clawson had already risen to greet the day. Dressed in clean t-shirt and jeans, he stepped out of his room and glanced at his partner's closed door. Shaking his head, he knew Chance would still be sleeping. That Kat loved to sleep in.

Jake headed to the kitchen and noticed they were getting low on supplies...a trip to the store was in order. With no cars to work on this morning, he made a list, went down the stairs, grabbed the keys from the garage office and headed outside.

Hopping into the tow truck, he started it up and headed for the gate. He paused to unlock and open it then climbed back in and headed for a nearby shopping center. As he drove, his mind went back to the late evening call they'd gotten from Callie. She'd told them, two black clad visitors came to see and threaten her.

What she told them made them both angry and upset. She'd said these two had proof that Manx was dirty and so were many of the city council. She too had been called on the carpet for her flagrant disregard for the law by accepting their help over the Enforcers and even encouraging their disregard for the law.

That last part had made Chance see red. It took Jake some time to calm him. He wasn't happy when Callie told them she had to promise to cease associating with them and to begin cleaning up the city. Another surprise was the news these strangers had told Callie she would be made the next Mayor despite what she'd done and the capper? They, meaning the SWAT Kats, would no longer have any real hero work to do when the strangers were through cleaning up the city.

Well, he could believe that when he saw how organized they were and powerful to be able to get rid of the Metallikats. He had a strong suspicion the other omegas wouldn't stand a chance against them either. He and Chance would have to find something else to do with their lives. He didn't know if he liked that much. He liked being a SWAT Kat.

His was thinking so deeply, he lost sight of how fast he was going. When he jerked aware, his amber eyes widen as he realized he was about to plow into a figure crossing the road in front of his hurtling truck.

With the skills honed from many enemy encounters, Jake jammed on the brakes, hard, praying he could bring the vehicle to a halt before he could hit the person.

The tires squealed loudly as they burned the pavement trying to stop so quickly. Behind him, other vehicles hurriedly did the same with the result of a chain reaction of screeching brakes and tires as everyone came to an abrupt stop.

The cars behind began honking their horns angrily, not knowing what had nearly happened and many not caring.

Jake ignored the racket around him, his heart was in his throat as the truck came to an abrupt halt and he couldn't see the person any longer. He flung his door open and hurried out to the front of the truck. No one was there! Then he caught movement above him and there she was on top of his hood.

How the hell had she gotten there? He could only stare in stunned amazement and relief.

Staring up at her he asked, "How..."

But was cut off by another figure rushing toward the scene and reaching up to the female.

"Raina! Are you okay? What happened?" Suddenly, the male whirled to face Jake, "You!" the male had silver tipped black fur and bottle green eyes that were flashing with anger as he shoved a finger into Jake's chest.

Jake immediately began to apologize, "I'm sorry! I wasn't pay attention to the road and didn't see her until the last minute..."

"Karel, stop it! I'm alright!" the female chided the angry male as she jumped down from the hood to the ground with ease.

Jake saw the she-kat was rather young, had fawn colored fur and yellow eyes. She looked to be right out of high school and quiet fit for someone of her age. But there was something more about her that caused a warmth to spiral up within in. To his amazement, a strong desire began to cease him...it urged him to reach out to her, bring her body closer to him, and protect her with all he had. He reeled in confusion as these feelings rushed through him for a complete stranger.

The male had turned from Jake and was looking his friend over quickly. Karel's heart was still pounding from the scare. He had been in a bookstore doing research for Urabe and had just left it to find Raina when he saw the truck baring down on her. He'd run as fast as he could but he was going to be too late. Thank the gods she was trained so was able to escape harm at the last possible second.

Still it had been a close call and he was upset about it. "Are you sure?" Karel asked, throwing a side glare at Jake. Raina was the youngest of their group, Urabe and Kazuma took watching over and guarding Raina quite seriously. If anything had happened to her, his leader and SIC would have thought it their fault.

"Yes, I said I was..." she said brushing him off, gently then turned to Jake was still upset and standing near. She was surprised to find herself tongue-tied and unable to say anything to the handsome cinnamon tom.

"Are you sure you okay, miss? I really didn't mean to nearly hit you or upset your boyfriend here." Jake said anxiously. Just saying the word or even thinking this guy was her boyfriend sent a wave of jealousy and irritation over him which further confused him. He didn't know her at all so how the hell could he be jealous.

"Oh...um...I'm okay, honest...and Karel...he's a friend only..."she finally managed to blurt out, blushing and feeling her heart beat faster just being in the presence of the tom. She shouldn't be feeling this not for a Kat...it shook her completely, especially as she just realized who this was.

But she couldn't shake off the need to move into the tom's arms, wrap her arms around his neck and nuzzle him while purring happily. Oh no, this just couldn't be! She needed to speak to Urabe immediately.

Even though she knew they should remain here to speak to the Enforcers about the near accident, she found she couldn't be in Jake's presence any longer.

"We...uh...have to go...now. I'm okay. Come on Karel," she said anxiously, grabbing her friend's paw and practically dragging off down the street at a fast walk.

Surprised, Karel was too startled to stop her so allowed himself to be tugged along but when they were a distance from the scene and out of sight, he pulled back and stopped her headlong flight.

"Raina, what's wrong? Why did you take off like that? And don't lie. I can still smell your anxiety," He said concerned.

"I just didn't want to be the center of attention like that. No one was hurt so I wanted to get away from there as quickly as I could." Raina said only half telling the truth. She just couldn't tell him about the strange feelings she'd suddenly had for Jake Clawson. Even this far away, her body screamed at her to go back and embrace him. "I...I need to talk to Urabe."

Karel stared down at her worried. Sighing, he reached up and pushed his bangs out of his face. He could see Raina was still upset but he had a feeling it had nothing to do with the near fatal accident. Something had happened between her and that SWAT Kat in hiding. He had a suspicion he knew what it was but it was hiding from him at the moment.

Shaking his head, he said, gently, "Okay, we'll head back to base."