Welcome to Egypt

When the group returned to Thundera, it was just like what happened when Atem and his own friends returned to Egypt. While everyone was in the Pure Valley for hours, time stood still in Thundera. To Lion-O, this meant that it would be the same if he were to go to Egypt. He could stay there for as long as he wanted and not even a second would pass here in Thundera. Of course, he would still need his father's approval.

After telling Lord Claudus about Pure Valley and what everyone did, Lion-O informed his father that Atem and the others were inviting the Thunderian prince to see the Egyptian kingdom. Lion-O wanted to go, insisting that it would help him to learn more about his new friends and where they came from. Jaga reminded Claudus of what they discussed earlier when Lion-O was invited to see the Valley. This was one of the many ways in learning about friends who would prove to be potential allies.

Claudus had trusted the Children of Millennia so far up to now. He had no reason to change his mind now. As such, he decided to grant his approval. The other ThunderCats wanted to come along and see the Egyptian kingdom as well, but Jaga wouldn't allow it. He didn't want the presence of too many Thunderians to overwhelm the Egyptian people even if they were friends with the Children of Millennia. He also decided that it would be best if they were accompanied by someone around their own age to make it look less conspicuous.

Lion-O said 'goodbye' to his father, promising to come back safely. As usual, Snarf decided to come along to protect Lion-O. "Since it's a world full of monsters and magic, I'll surely draw less attention," he assumed. "Besides, someone's got to look after Lion-O." He looks at the children and says, "It's not that I don't trust you kids. It's just my duty, is all."

"Oh, we understand," said Jirachi. "We'd feel the same way if any of our partners were going somewhere."

Mahad stepped forward. "Lord Claudus, as a senior young noble, you have my word that I will take responsibility for Lion-O's safety."

"Mahad's very reliable," Mana assured him. "And he's got his amulet to show it," she said, pointing to the purple amulet around Mahad's neck.

"Mana," Mahad groaned.

"Well, you wouldn't be wearing it if you didn't represent reliability," she pointed out. "Your son is in good hands with us, Lord Claudus."

"Lion-O will have a great time," Joseph promised. "We'll make sure of it."

Claudus gave a firm nod and sent the children off with his best wishes. Lion-O had a feeling he was going to love this field trip to Egypt. Snarf was still worried, but at the same time, even he was eager to go on this adventure.

After returning to the Pure Valley, the children brought Lion-O and Snarf to the door that led home to their world. The Thunderian prince was in awe of the symbol on the door. Atem explained that it was the same symbol as the one on the Millennium Items, the treasures that were in the possession of the pharaoh and his royal court.

Before going through the door, Joseph took out a spare white loincloth and wrapped it around Lion-O's waist. He also tied it with a blue sash. "There," the blonde said. "Now you'll be able to blend in everyone else."

"Good idea," Lion-O replied. It was better to be safe than sorry.

"We can't tell everyone you're from another world," said Atem. "We can only tell my father. Don't worry, he'll be glad to meet you."

"But regarding anyone else we may see, we'll have to stretch the truth a little and say you're a demon from a foreign land," said Joseph. "Think you and Snarf can play along?"

"No problem," the Thunderian prince replied, and they all walked through the door. Once more, they all found themselves in the palace courtyard. To Lion-O, it was beautiful. Though they had just arrived, Snarf was already feeling bothered by the heat. He hoped it would be nice and cool inside the palace.

"Wait here," Atem said to Lion-O. "I'll go see my father and announce your arrival to him." And he walked inside with Riolu following him. The Thunderian prince was looking forward to seeing the palace from the inside.

A few minutes later, Atem returned, saying his father wanted to meet Lion-O. So they all headed for the throne room. When they got there, the pharaoh was astonished to see Lion-O, yet thrilled to meet the Thunderian prince he had heard so much about. "Father, this is Lion-O," Atem introduced. "The young Lord of Thundera."

Lion-O bowed before King Aknamkanon. "It is an honor to meet the king of Egypt and the father of my friend, Prince Atem."

"I have heard a great deal about you," the king said. "I bid you welcome to Egypt, young Lord of Thundera."

"Please, you can just call me Lion-O," the Thunderian prince insisted. He introduced his companion at his feet. "This is my noble companion Snarf. He has decided to accompany me. We are both honored to be welcome to your kingdom."

"And how long will you be staying in Egypt?" King Aknamkanon asked.

"Oh, well, um," he was saying, "I have not decided yet, but I know I mustn't stay too long."

King Aknamkanon knew that his son and the rest of the children had been staying in Thundera for many days, based on the stories he had been told. Perhaps it would be fair to let Lion-O stay here in Egypt for a few days. "Would one week be a sufficient enough time for you, Lion-O?"

The Thunderian prince liked the sound of that. "Yes, Your Excellency," he answered. "We would like that very much."

"Then you and your companion shall be our guests here in the palace for the duration of your stay," the pharaoh declared. "As for you, my son, you and your friends shall teach Young Lion-O our customs here, such as how to behave as we do and of our heritage."

"Yes, Father," Atem said obediently.

Mystery spoke up. "My Lord Pharaoh, given the fact that I have lived most of my life outside the palace, with your permission, I would like to show Lion-O around the kingdom."

"We've seen more on the outside than most of our friends have," said Jirachi. "We could show Lion-O and teach him things we've experienced just as we've been doing for Prince Atem and the others."

"We could also demonstrate to Lion-O what we do as Children of Millennia," Joseph added. "Serving the Great Goddess in our own way by being the heroes we are."

"If it will teach Young Lion-O the ways of our kingdom, then I will permit it," said the pharaoh. "For now, Joseph, take our guests upstairs and help them to settle in."

"Yes, Pharaoh," the blonde said obediently. "I'll prepare a room for them and find him some nicer clothes as well." He looks at the Thunderian prince. "Follow me, Lion-O. You too, Snarf." And they went upstairs.

When Lion-O was brought to one of the guest rooms, he felt that the bedding was a little firm, but the blankets were nice. No doubt they were made from Egyptian cotton. Joseph brought Lion-O a white outfit to cover his whole body. The sleeves were short, making it easy for him to move his arms around. It also went an inch above his knees so he would be able to run if he wanted to. Lion-O also tied the same sash around his waist.

Lion-O studied himself. "I guess it'll do while I'm here. Thanks, Joseph."

"Not at all," the blonde insisted. "I can't wait to show you and Snarf around the kingdom."

"Why don't we start with a tour around the palace first?" Snarf suggested.

"Sure thing," Joseph answered. "But why don't you take it easy for a little while. I'm sure you guys are tired after exploring the whole Valley for hours."

Lion-O yawned and stretched. He agreed that he could use a little bit of rest. He laid down on the bed and began to doze off. Snarf curled up next to him and fell asleep as well.