Story Five:  Test of Ascension

The sound of water tripping over smooth stone could be heard echoing off the rough granite walls of the secluded cavern hidden far below the surface of the earth.  Softly glowing moss illuminated the natural pocket along with the drifting specks of light known as will’o’wisps, giving the cavern a feeling of immensity and awe.  Even way down below the sun's reach, flowered vines grow in the mysterious light, lending a natural perfume to the lightly damp air.  High above the quiet pool, stalactites drip water as it seeps down through soil and miniscule fissures in the rock to the hide-away.

Rippling with each gentle drop of water, the pool shone with a mystical light, a beacon in the darkness if one knew where to look.  At the very edge of the water, tiny waves lapped gently at the rock to make it a perfectly smooth mirror which reflected the faint light to brighten the natural room.  It was a perfect place to meet in secret and only a select few knew of its location, for no mere mortal was allowed where the gods came to languish.

No mortal could find their way through the winding tunnels and paths, or find their way to the island where the sacred cavern lay hidden.  Only a certain few, with permission could enter and only with divinity with them to guide them through unknown corridors to bask in the wonder of Nature's beauty as she was meant to be seen.

Made from the very rock of the cavern, a small gazebo gave a place for those who visited a place to sit and relax.  Twining around delicate looking columns, flowering vines draped effortlessly into a natural veil on three sides, the fourth left open to view the rippling water and who ever may be basking in the naturally warm water along with the gold and white Koi which made the sacred pool their home.

Breaking the silence of the cavern, laughter echoed all around as two young feline women swam in the warm water and splashed each other.  They were alone, with no others there to shake their head at their frivolity and rambunctious play in such a holy place.  Neither cared and they were simply enjoying their time together.

One had fur the color of pale gold shimmering even while wet and plastered against her alabaster skin.  Bright blue eyes flashed with mischief while she watched the other circle around her with long easy strokes through the water.  Though treading water, she seemed to float a little higher in the water, letting just the edges of her blonde mane of hair drift in the water around her waist.  With her fur slicked down, her voluptuous figure seemed even more curved and full in the right places.

The other had fur as white as new fallen snow and hair as dark as night.  Blue-green eyes glittered with the same mischief as her companion.  Tendrils of her hair swirled in the water with her movement as if alive and rose and fell in long waves around her slender arms.  Like the other, her figure was full and curved in just the right places though her stomach had a bit more of a curve showing the first signs of pregnancy.

“Come on, Sarri,” the white feline giggled, “Tell me, did you and that handsome young bobcat decide to make the bond formal?  The two of you have been attached at the hip for over a year now.”  Grinning at the other, she flipped over to go under water, the lower half of her body shimmering into the elegant body and tail of the fish she swam with.

Following her, the golden cat did the same, her legs melding into the fanned tail of a fish so she could keep up with the other in their play.  “No,” she said with a sardonic smile, “He called it off.  He said it wasn't anything I did or said.  But I think he just couldn't handle the fact that I am bigger than he is and did nothing to hide the fact that I have both genders like those taurs living on Psion.”

Spinning in the water to look at her companion, she couldn't help but to let her eyes drift down to see the prominent member creating a bulge behind the golden scales of her stomach.  “At least he lasted longer than the others, sis.  Maybe it is for the best, though.” she offered to her sibling, “You've been doing a lot of stuff for the goddess lately.”

Her sister's pause gave her the opportunity to catch up and wrap her arms around the white mercat's waist and hold her close against her body.  “I know which is why I'm not upset at his leaving.  Sure, he enjoyed me riding him as much as I enjoyed him in me, but there just wasn't a connection there.  You know?”  Her delicate hand-paws drifted down to rub the swell of her sister's belly and smiled.  “Now, which of your young men gave you this kit?  Hmmmm?”

Wiggling in her sister's arms until she started to rub her belly, she laughed.  “To be honest, I don't know.  This one is the result of the lover's day festivities earlier this season.  Could be one of five males I was with that day, and each them were wanting to honor the goddess with me and the other priestesses at the temple.”  Softly, she sighed, “That was one hell of an orgy.”

“I can find out for you, if you want, Dommie,” the golden mercat purred while coiling her lower body around her sister's to press the bulge against her sister's belly.  “The last trip I did for Bast gave me a few new abilities and one of them is sensing new life inside a mother's womb.”

Sensing her sister's need, she let her press then turned in her arms to feel her fully against her body while she held her.  “I know.  It is a blessing from the goddess to you as a reward.  But, I want to let this one be a surprise. ”  Then, looking down when she felt something poke at her, she lifted a brow and looked her sister in the eye.  “You know we shouldn't.  We're sisters in blood.”

Nodding, and rolling her eyes, she glanced down at herself, knowing she couldn't control that part of her being if she wanted.  “I know, but it is not easy when you're around.  Even pregnant, you just... make me want to love you even more.  Knowing you'll be the next high priestess just makes it even stronger.  Please, just this once.  Mother and father will never know and you'll be safe from the consequences this time.”

Dommie looked deep into her sister's troubled eyes.  The ache was there and control wavering as the pressure grew against her tightly closed vent and there was little either could do except give in.  “Just this once, Sareena.  We got lucky last time.”

Grinning, Sareena nodded then pressed her muzzle to her sisters, giving her a loving kiss and pulled her deeper into the water to give the white mercat as much joy in their sisterly bond as possible before they had to part.

The scene faded, growing hazy as mists swirled around in the pool and ripples hid the pair from view.  Sighing, the feline watching and grinning in approval of the two as they blessed the cavern with their love for one another.  After dipping her hand in the water to disrupt the view, she stood and paced over to an ornate lounge to recline and watch through lidded eyes the clouds drifting by.

“You called for me, your greatness,” a soft voice inquired as the form of a winged feline appeared beside the lounge.  Large amber eyes filled with concern gazed up at the cat-headed goddess, waiting for the deity to speak.  The sleek body resembled a jaguar with the pale rosettes glittering against the onyx backdrop and the deeper red of the centers.  Bat-like wings rustled nervously against the soft furred sides, expecting to be sent off on another long journey for her chosen goddess.

Smiling, the goddess nodded then slowly opened her green eyes to look upon the waiting feline.  “Yes, Sirabe, I did.  My time on this plane is almost over.  It has been a very long and interesting life watching this world grow and change over the eons.”  After a good stretch, the goddess sat up, yawned and pet the waiting feline before saying anything more.  “You will soon have a new goddess to take my place.  She needs to only pass one more test before she can ascend to join the others.”

“A new goddess,” the worried cat asked while watching the feline's every move.  “How can that be?  You are eternal.  We avatars and the earth cannot live without you there to sustain us.”

“No,” the cat god said gently before looking away.  “I have known for a long time that I would not be able to stay on this plane forever.  It took one of my guardians and certain events to make me realize that I couldn't hold back any longer.  It is time for a new goddess to fill my sandals and maintain the life of you, my avatars, and the earth.”  Looking up at the star-lit sky above her, Bast sighed once again then walked back to the pool she was gazing into just a little while before.  “I should have been able to leave almost a century ago, but Bastet failed in her final tests.  Her father knew she would before she was even born and we couldn't produce another before he died.”

Watching her, the feline rose to follow the goddess over to the pool.  Propping herself on her paws, she peered into the dark water then up at the being she adored.  “If Bastet can't take your place, who will,” she asked, curious and also worried about the prospect of losing the one she loved above all else.  “You don't have any other children except for her and the one child she did have went berserk years ago, having since left this world for others.”

A soft smile appeared just as the image in the pool changed from their reflections to the two felines now basking on the stone of the sacred cavern.  “No, one was born in secrecy.  She is my daughter, sired by me with my High Priestess.  The child was raised as any normal child should and taught to love and respect others.  She received the education I couldn't give her or Bastet.”

The winged cat looked confused.  Both cats in the pool looked similar enough to be related in her own eyes and couldn't tell which was the goddess' heir.  “Which is your daughter, mistress,” she finally asked, still confused by the image before her.

“Blue eyes and golden fur,” she purred softly, admiring the beauty her little girl became and her sister as well.  “Sareena, the daughter of the High Priestess, Kalli-Co.  A little magic was used so I could impregnate Kalli-Co and our child inherited a portion of that.  Sareena is both male and female, my dear Sirabe.  That will make her perfect to fill my place when I leave.  She has passed every test I have given her.  This last one will prove to be the most difficult, however.”

Suddenly looking up at the tired goddess, the avatar saw a glimpse of worry in the great feline's eyes.  “Why,” she asked, afraid to know the answer.  Deep down, she knew what the answer could be but wanted to confirm her growing suspicion.

Without moving her eyes away from the image of her daughter and her half-sister, the goddess sighed and shook her head.  “The test could kill her.  She will have to be willing to give up her own life before she can pass this final test.  Sareena will have to go where I cannot to find the answer and the key to her ascension.  I can only hope that Eth and Ra will see she is worthy of being the next goddess of love and family.”

“If she dies,” the avatar dared to ask before dropping down onto all four paws to look up at her mistress.

“Then there will be nothing left to keep this world together,” Bast said after several long, quiet, moments of thought.  Her voice had gone soft, wavering on the edge of breakdown because she knew everything she worked for hung in the balance with this one single young lady.  “She must pass this test alone, Sirabe.  No one is allowed to interfere, not even the Fates on this one.  We can only watch.  You... will have to be my eyes and ears once she enters the lands she must go to for this test.”

With a nod, Sirabe rose to her paws then rubbed her body along the goddess' legs to reassure her.  “I will watch her for you, mistress.  Where is it she will have to go?”

Bast turned away from the pool and splashed a hand into the water before returning to her lounge sobbing.  She was too upset to answer and could not bring herself to say what the young woman's destination would be.  There would be no time to sire, or raise, a new child should Sareena fail and she did not want to see her die before she could have the chance to know who she really was.

Staring up at the twinkling bits on the ceiling of the granite dome, Sareena sighed and relaxed with her sister after their little tryst.  In the back of her mind, she felt guilty that she wanted her own sibling so badly, but glad that the feelings they shared were honest and true.  Something else tugged at those same dark corners, making her even more thoughtful and fearful of the future.  Somehow, she knew her sister wasn't going to be a part of her life.

“Sarri,” the white cat purred while watching her sibling sink deeper into thought, “What's on your mind?  You usually want to cuddle after we've mated.”

“Huh?” the golden cat said, thoughts disrupted, “Oh, uh... yes, there is.  Nothing you need to be concerned with.  Just thinking is all.”  Her blue eyes widened slightly to emphasize the truth in her words before offering a gentle smile to the one true female she trusted and loved.

A dark brow arched over her eyes as Dommie peered intently at her sister then smiled back.  “Really?”  A moment passed before she purred, “I see.  Okay, I won't worry.”  Then, without asking or giving warning, she sat up then sat astride the other cat's hips and looked down at her with hands on her hips.  “Tell me, Sareena.  I want to know what's bothering you.  This isn't like you to be so quiet after a bit of love making.”

The effort to keep control while seeing just how open and ready the other was kept her from answering immediately.  Even though they had just finished, she was ready for more and knew the tip of her maleness was peeking out to touch damp folds.  “You're not playing fair, Dominoe.  You know it is very hard to resist when you do this to me.”

The playful smile took on a mischievous curl while she looked down at her sister then reached to gently knead her breasts while teasing the tip of her sister's shaft with a slow gyration of her hips.  “I know,” came her flippant reply, “but it does serve the purpose I want.”

Sareena could only stare up at her sister.  They came from the same litter though Dominoe was born first and their brother after them.  She had always been the more dominant of the three.

“Well…” the white cat asked again, more insistent while she teased her sibling further.  “Tell me, or you'll be little more than a mindless slave to your desires before we can talk again.”  Not that she minded since she always enjoyed their rare trysts together.  If it weren't for her sister's difference, she wouldn't have learned what it was like to be with anyone until her first lover's day festival.  Even that first time was accidental and caught them both unaware.

Unable to help herself, she moaned.  It was almost too much for her to bear and yet she tried to keep some form of control over her own body.  Still, she felt the soft, moist, pressure of her sister's body opening for her while she stared up at her.  “Stop it, Dommie.  I mean it.  We can't go further this time,” she said with a moan, her voice rising in tone with the effort to keep from giving in.

Lifting the same brow again, Dominoe looked down at her sister then let her feel the union of their bodies a few more heart beats longer before sliding off to lay beside her, leaving just her fingers to stroke and tease at the now proud and hard member protruding from her sister's groin.  “As you wish, sis,” she chuckled, “but it could have been fun.  But, please, tell me what's on your mind.”  Softly, she nuzzled at her sister's shoulder and pressed herself against her body.

Released from the growing fervor, she groaned and twitched her hips under the touch of those experienced fingers.  It was just enough to make thinking difficult, but she wasn't about to stop this bit of affection between them.  “I wish I could tell you,” she finally panted.  “All I can say is I'll be leaving again very soon for a very long time.”

Dominoe nodded, feeling guilty about forcing that out of her sister all of a sudden.  “I see,” she purred softly.  “I'm sorry I forced it from you, sis.  You just seemed so distracted, I had to know.  Is this another thing for Bast you have to do?”

Sareena nodded then looked away, eyes lowered before she could answer.  “Yes.  Only this time... I may not be coming back.  Something is going to happen and... things will change.  Hopefully for the better.”  Slowly, she turned her head to look back into her sister's eyes then rested a hand on the swell of her stomach.  “If you weren't already pregnant, I'd leave you with a kit to remember me by.  We'll at least have the memory of this tryst as our last time together should anything happen.”

After glancing at where her sister's hand lay, she nodded then kissed her cheek and held her close, forgetting about stroking the hard shaft she was teasing moments before.  “I'm sorry I ruined that part for you, but thank you for giving me this much,” she purred in all confidence.  She couldn't bear to think about life without her sister being there and hoped she wouldn't be gone long.  She was rarely ever gone that long with the errands for the goddess.  “Do you know where you'll be going this time,” she asked, curious but knowing the answer already.

“No, not yet,” Sareena replied sorrowfully.  “One of the avatars will be waiting for me when we leave to guide me to where I need to be.”  Suddenly hugging her sister close and tight, she sobbed into her shoulder, “I'm going to miss you, big sister.  You'll tell mom and dad that I had to leave, won't you?  Don't tell them that... I may not be coming home.  They don't need that kind of worry.  Not with a new grandchild on the way.”

“Don't say you won't be coming back,” Dominoe said sternly while stroking her sister's hair.  “That'll just make it all the more true.”

“But it is true,” came the sniffled reply, “I may not be coming back this time.  Just.... just don't worry about me and take care of yourself and this new baby you're carrying.  Who knows, I just may see it one day.”

Grinning to help keep up her own brave facade, Dominoe nodded.  “You better see your little niece or nephew one day.  They need to know who their Aunt Sareena is and see just how much fun she can be.”  Then, lifting her sister's chin so she can look into her eyes, she smiled softly.  “I love you, Sareena.  More than a sister should.  Let us share one more tryst then...” she paused to swallow hard at the very thought of not seeing her sibling ever again, “you can leave on your errand for Bast.  I'll let everyone know that you were needed to take care of things.  Okay?”

Tears filled her eyes as she looked deep into the soul of her sister, then the golden cat nodded.  “Anything for you.”  Before she could say anything else, Sareena found herself in a deep heat filled kiss and soon fell to the urgings they both shared.

When they emerged from the sacred cavern, the sun was just beginning to rise over the trees.  They had been underground for at least a day and had no clue as to the passage of time.  Hand in hand, they stepped out into the chill air of the late spring day, dew dampening their bare feet and sparkling on the spider webs draped over nearby branches.  The birds had just started their morning chorus and the other forest creatures had yet to awaken to the new day.  Only a single creature was awake, watching for them before standing and making their presence known to the pair.

“Lady Sareena,” the winged jaguar said with a deep voice, “I have been sent to be your guide on this quest the goddess has given you.  I am Sirabe, chosen of the avatars.”

Both cats stood and stared at the black jaguar and the massive wings she bore. The pale rosettes and the deep red centers held them in awe before they bowed in deference to the divine creature. Their time together was officially over and they were reluctant to part so soon.

Not recognizing the bond the pair shared, the winged cat turned to start leading the way.  “Come, my lady,” she chuffed, “we have much ground to cover before you may rest.”

Sareena hung back, biting her lower lip while she watched the great cat leave.  Then, gathering up her courage, she hugged her sister once more, kissed her, then pulled away to begin her final journey.  “Good-bye, Dominoe,” she called to her as she walked away.  “Remember our time together always.”

Dominoe nodded while she watched them leave.  Her lips still felt the pressure of the kiss and her body tingled where they touched.  Though her heart raced, she knew it wasn't for love; it was for the worry and concern for her sister's safe return one day. 

Before the white feline left, she sat on a smooth rock and prayed to Bast.  “Oh, great goddess, please allow me one simple gift to remember my sister by.  Grant me the power to hold her blessing until it is needed again.”  With those soft words, she summoned up a spell one of the elder priests had taught her.

With fingers pressed to her stomach, she chanted softly.  A soft white glow surrounded her body, brightening around her fingers where they touched her body.  Slowly, a milky sphere emerged from her, the contents sloshing about inside from the effort of passing through her body to rest in her delicate hands.  A gentle smile curled across her tear stained cheeks, then she tucked the sphere away into a pouch hanging from her belt.  A whispered thank you was given then she made her way back to her home far to the north of the warm tropical island she had shared one last night with her sister.

“Sirabe,” Sareena asked as she was lead to the white sand beach of the island they were on, “do you know where we will be going this time?”  Her heart wasn't wholly into the trip so soon after being with the one person she loved.

The cat shook her head then looked over her shoulder at the anthro feline before speaking.  “No, I don't.  I only know we will be going someplace that the mistress cannot.  She will not lead me wrong on this quest.  It is very important that you complete this one with all due haste.  Our time is very limited.”

Curious, and concerned, the golden cat asked, “How much time do we have, then?”  It seemed odd she was being sent someplace a god couldn't go, especially her patron goddess and that time was limited.

Somehow, the winged cat managed to shrug while walking on all fours.  “That, I don't know.  Not even the mistress was sure as to how much time you have, but rest assured, there isn't much time left.  Either way, this world needs you to succeed.  Everything depends on it.”

“Great way to encourage success, Sirabe,” Sarri said wryly.  The pressure was on her, now.  This quest already felt different than the ones before.  Already, she knew she'd never see her family again but didn't want to let them know.  They needed the hope that she could return one day.

“It is only the truth, my lady,” the avatar said calmly.  As she stood with her paws in the water, she looked northward, toward the hazy distant peaks of the mainland.  “We must go toward the Spine.  I see a valley that will lead us to where we need to go.  If you will sit on my back, I will carry us there.”

Distracted by something flying northward on large feathery wings further down the coast, Sarri grunted then pulled her attention back to gaze at the cat beside her.  “Ride?  Oh, uh... aren't you a bit small to hold my weight?  No offense, but...”

Sirabe looked up at her, an ear cocked back and her whiskers arching forward to sniff at the sea air while she regarded the tall, beautiful feline standing beside her.  Without giving hint to the magic being used, the avatar swelled and grew in size to be a more fitting steed for young woman.  As she flared her wings to feel the ocean breeze, she spoke, “Is this more to your liking, my lady?”

Amazed at how easily the strange feline changed sizes, the demigoddess nodded then found her voice again.  “Uh... yes, it is.  Thank you.”  Grasping the thick fur around the feline's neck, she climbed on and straddled her back just behind the great wings.  “You didn't have to change if you didn't want to, Sirabe.”  Yet, she appreciated the effort given.

The avatar snorted at her then looked up at the sky.  Muscles tensed as she leaned back on her haunches the leaped into the air with broad wings booming against the air in wide strokes to gain altitude quickly.  Gusts of salty air pushed against those leathery wings, lifting them higher and higher above the restless sea as the cat beat the air as easily as any bird in flight.  Slowly, they circled the island, seeking the warm currents which would carry them over the mainland.

By nightfall, the pair found themselves flying over the eastern coast of the lower continent, well above any kingdom, city, and village to be noticed.  At the edge of a sharp cliff, the winged cat spotted an empty cottage beside a small rambling stream.  It had been abandoned for years, dust coating everything, but it had weathered the coastal storms and the debris of battles in the past.  It would serve them well for the night.

“Rest here, my lady,” Sirabe said as Sareena dismounted and stretched her tired legs.  “I will find some food to sustain you through the night.”  Without waiting for any acknowledgment, the cat took to the air once more then dove down toward the sea to find the night's meal for her.

“Wait...” Sarri tried to stop her then shook her head as she watched the magnificent beast swoop down along the cliff to the beach below.  In the fading light, she lost track of her companion.  Sighing, she retired to the empty cottage; sneezing from all the dust that had accumulated in there.  “I guess I should make the best of this and clean up so I can sleep without sneezing my tail off,” she said to herself before summoning up the magic to whisk away the dirt and grime and creating a comfortable place to sleep for the night.

When the avatar returned, there was a cheerful fire burning in the fireplace and several colorful, thick, cushions spread around the hearth with the young demigoddess relaxing across several of them in the warmth without her clothes on.  Her eyes were closed, enjoying the warm glow, while she lightly stroked her shaft with the tips of her finger claws.  She seemed unaware of the other's return or the cool breeze swirling about with the opening of the door.

“I bring food,” the smaller cat said after dropping several fish on the floor.  She stared at the relaxing femme and the proud member she sported before speaking again.  “The Mistress didn't say you are both male and female.”  Though she didn't sound surprised, the avatar was certainly surprised by the sight of a female having a very male member.

Surprised, Sareena sat up and spun to see who entered.  Blushing, she cleared her throat and laid back down on the cushions, this time covering herself with a blanket to hide her erection.  “Um, yes, I do.  Always been like this.  Mother said it is because of the magic used to help conceive me.”  Under the covers, she resumed stroking her erection, needing to ease the need to rut.  “Every spring, I, like other males, experience rut and it is not easy to control the urges.”

One ear flicked back while the cat considered then nodded slowly.  “I see.  What kind of magic was used to help conceive you to bring this about,” she asked while she walked over to get a better look at the tent created by the hidden erection.

The demigoddess shrugged with one shoulder, distracted for the moment with a tingling sensation starting to rise in her loins.  “Mother told me that the night she and father consummated their marriage, Bast came to them and used magic to make herself male long enough to open mom to accept father's seed.  Soon after, mom found out she was pregnant with me, my brother, and sister.  We're the only children she ever had.  Excuse me a moment, please.”  Blushing, and biting her bottom lip, she turned onto her side, away from the cat and took care of her sudden need with as much decorum as she could.  Using the blanket as cover, the flooding release was captured and hidden away within herself.

Sirabe watched, not seeming at all perturbed by this fact and smiled knowingly.  She understood fully why this demigoddess had been chosen to take the place of the retiring goddess.  Slowly stepping over the feline's body, the avatar purred, “I am your companion for the duration of this quest, My Lady.  If you require me to be more, then it shall be.”

Ears perking up, the feline rolled over, ears still red with her blush and her breath short from the effort of stroking herself into climax.  “Thank you,” she panted, “but... it wouldn't feel righting using you.  You're feral, aren't you?”

The avatar smirked then rubbed her muzzle against the larger cat's shoulder.  “I am the chosen of Bast.  As her avatar, I take on the forms she needs the most.  This goes for you, her chosen, as well.  Your rut could slow us down if you handle it alone.”

“I... don't know,” she said while watching the avatar change from a feral winged jaguar to a slender, almost boyish looking feline with the same wings and slight figure.  “Okay... maybe a little, when it gets really bad?”

The jaguar laughed then pressed against her body, pushing her back onto the pillows.  In front of the fire, she took care of the demigoddess, giving her full release to ease the urges of her rut well into the night.  When dawn came, they were sound asleep in each other's arms, entwined in the blankets and happily purring.

Late the next day, they were winging their way northward again, riding the warm air currents as far as they could before needing to land once again.  They had reached the foothills to the Spine Mountains, the great range which split the main continent in half.  Both looked up in awe at the mountains that barred their way.  Somewhere, hidden among them was a valley that would take them where they needed to go.

“You know, Sirabe…” Sareena said softly, “I think we should both fly through here instead of me riding.  Those mountains are blocking a lot of the air currents up there.  You may not be able to hold me aloft for long on your own.”

Thinking the same thing, the jaguar looked at her quietly then nodded.  “Can you fly,” she asked curiously, already knowing the answer.  “There's still a long way to go before we reach our destination.”

“Yes,” Sarri said with a grin then chanted a spell which produced a pair of large feathered wings of her own from her shoulder blades.  “How else would my sister and I get to that island without a boat or teleportation magic?”  She laughed and adjusted her tunic to accommodate the new appendages.

Watching the wings grow, the jaguar nodded her approval and granted the younger cat a smile.  “You do have a point, My Lady,” she finally said.  Then looking back toward the mountains they would soon be flying over, she added, “We will more than likely be watched during our search.  Not that we're being watched now, mind you.”

Looking at her, Sarri blinked then asked.  “Why would we be watched?  As far as I can tell, we're alone out here.”  No where could she see a dwelling of any kind or a sign of anybody living in the area.  Even reaching out with her senses, she could feel no one but the two of them.

“You won't sense them, my lady,” the jaguar said softly though even she looked around cautiously before turning her gaze back toward the sunlit peaks reflecting the setting sun.  “Everyone with the blood of Bast in their veins is watched and eyed with caution the closer we get to our destination.”

Sareena looked at the older cat, wondering what she meant before turning back to the beauty of the sun's light on the white peaks.  “I don't understand, Sirabe.  I know you are an avatar and are filled with Bast's power, but... neither of us has her blood in our veins.”

After sitting back on her haunches, the older cat shrugged then settled in to groom her tail before explaining.  “But you do, my lady.  You are a part of the Mistress' family.  Did you not wonder why she kept sending you on strange quests and with each one, a new power emerged?”

“Well, yes, a little,” Sarri admitted while she settled onto a rock while the other groomed.  “I thought Bast had something in store for me and was seeing if I was worthy of something big to be asked to do so much.”  A short pause, then she added, “I never questioned the will of Bast.  Mother taught me Bast did things which may seem mysterious or strange but always had a reward well worth the effort when she was done and the outcome became known.”

“Your mother never told you, did she,” inquired the feline as she looked at her directly.  Her eyes held no emotion and yet, the way she held herself seemed to confer concern for the younger woman.

Shaking her head, Sarri replied, “Tell me what?  I've always known I'm a child of a god.  Amun-Ra has been a wonderful father to me and my siblings.  Mother couldn't be happier with him, or us.”

“I'm not saying he shouldn't.  Amun-Ra raised you very well,” stated the jaguar plainly.  “What I'm saying is, your mother nor Bast, has told you the truth surrounding your conception.  What do you know about your mother's relationship with Bast?”

With a soft smile, the young woman started to explain.  “Mother is her High Priestess and one of the goddess' favored.  On the night my parents were consummating their marriage, Bast came to them and blessed mom and dad then opened mom so she could accept dad's seed.  It is a very fond memory for them both.  My siblings and I were the only children she ever bore.”

“Mhmm,” the winged cat purred then walked over to rub her cheek against Sarrie's thigh.  “I see.  Then you do know some, just not all.”  She waited to see if Sareena would ask anything more before continuing on.  “This should be explained to you by Kalli-Co or the Mistress, but since neither is here, I will explain.  The night the mistress appeared with your parents and blessed their union to open your mother, she used a special magic which allowed her to sire a child with her.  Your father then sired his own with your mother to make sure you were well hidden away from anyone who might see through the magic before you were ready to be tested.  The magic she used to bring you into life is what makes you what you are now; a woman who needs no male.  Something in the magic gave you both genders though you are quite obviously female.”

After glancing down at herself, she looked the jaguar in the eye then leaned back to prop herself against the stone and her wings.  “That does explain a lot, now that you've explained it.  But, why did Bast want to make a child with mom if she has Bastet?  I thought she was supposed to be the one who would take over when Bast decided to wander away.”

Glad that this young woman accepted her role fully, Sirabe shrugged then settled onto her haunches and regarded the feline and the flicking tip of her tufted tail.  “No, Bastet can't fill the Mistress' place when she finally moves on.  She doesn't have within her the desire to love and protect everyone, though she was a decent enough mother until her son was stolen away.  There is no room in her heart for the needs and desires of the world, only herself and those she lets in to see what she is truly like.  That was the original plan.”

“What happened to make Bastet what she is now,” asked the golden feline curiously.  “I've been told many stories about the civil war she started and the problems she caused recently before, and after, she met her husband.”

The shrug Sirabe made couldn't have been more truthful in that moment.  “I honestly don't know.  Bastet's father was mortal, like your mother, and he was chosen for the Mistress to sire a child which would one day take Bast's place.  They loved one another deeply, a goddess and her high priest, and they were more than happy when their union produced a child so quickly.  Bast walked along side her chosen mate while she carried their kit and lived as other mortals did until after the birth.  Bastet's father doted on her and helped raise her until she was old enough to learn and question the world about her.  No one knows what happened, but all the gods agree that Bastet must have witnessed the attack on her father.  The Mistress did everything she could to save him, but he chose to let his life end.  He didn't want eternal life and he was fairly old when he took the Mistress as his bride.

“While she could have saved him and made something up, she didn't.  It was his wish to be allowed to live for as long as was natural then die in the service of his goddess.  She mourned his loss for years and did what she could to raise her daughter.  With all her uncles and aunts, Bastet should have learned plenty and she did, but her heart had hardened and she started to hate her mother for not saving her father's life.  All agree that things may have been different if he had lived to show her what every child learns from their parents before passing away.

“It was because of Bastet that I needed to be hidden,” stated Sareena while she watched the jaguar stretch her wings.  “That's why my brother and sister have similar magic to my own.”

Sirabe glanced up at her then made a non-committal grunt.  “Yes and no.  The magic used so your mother could conceive helped, but mostly it was to dampen your aura.  Their sire, your father, is also a god, though one who gave up his power willingly to be with a mortal wife.  Your brother may very well take his place one day while your sister becomes the new High Priestess.”

The sky had become dark while they talked.  As stars appeared overhead, the moon rose above the land, drifting slowly through the sky like a curved boat on the water.  Silhouettes of night flying beasts soared far over head in their search for prey.  Off in the distance, the roar of a dragon echoed among the rolling foothills as it challenged another for territory.

Sareena considered all that had been said while she listened to the wild around her and watched the moon drift across the sky.  It was a lot to take in and there was more that she needed to know.  “The three of us always knew we were to fill in for our parents when they were ready to step down, or something happened to them.  It is rather expected and of no surprise.”  As her attention returned to her winged companion, she asked, “How much longer does Bast have before she leaves us?”

Taken by surprise by the suddenness of the question, Sirabe blinked and stared at the young woman before she could formulate an answer.  “That... I do not know.  She is tired and weak now, showing her great age more than she should be.  All I know for sure is that her power is waning fast.”

Though it didn't show outwardly, Sarri felt an immense sadness fill her heart.  Her thoughts turned inward, knowing in her very soul what will happen if there is no one to fill the void when the one goddess could no longer be there.  Now, she understood why she had been tested so much, but how she was to ascend to that power, she didn't know.

“Sareena,” the jaguar purred while nudging at the woman's knee with her muzzle, “Sareena, I asked if you knew what this quest was we are on.  It is imperative that you understand what it is you are seeking.”

Blinking out of her thoughts, the woman sat up and looked around before settling again to regard the avatar at her side.  “Yes, I know what it is.  I am to find the most rare of all things in the world, someone who is pure of body, heart, mind, and soul.  A person who knows no lies or malice.  I have been searching for some time already.  If my sister hadn't been pregnant when we met in the Sacred Spring, she would have been the one we wanted.”

As she shook her head, the cat replied, “No, she wouldn't have, even though you love her that much.  Dominoe would not be able to bring herself to do what is needed in order for you to rise up and take the Mistress' place.”

“What would she need to do,” asked the young woman, “or whoever it is that I find on this quest?”

The cat looked away, her shoulders rolling and wings rising and falling before she stood and walked off a few paces.  “That... I'm not sure.  But, what I do know is that you will have to be exceptionally brave and accept whatever the outcome will be.”

“Oh,” was the soft reply then the woman slid off the rock and stretched her wings.  “I'm going to take a short flight, see if maybe I can find us a better place to camp for the night.”  She didn't wait for an answer before taking to the air with a few strong down beats of her great wings.  Sareena needed some time to think alone as well as a better place to sleep in safety out in the wild.

As much as she wanted to follow, the older cat stayed and waited for her.  She knew from experience that the young needed time to accept change and sort things out before they could face danger of any kind.  So many cubs she had raised did the same thing and each came back to her when they were ready.

When Sirabe said they were being watched, she couldn't have been closer to the truth.  From a distance, disguised among the normal wild life, one of the very people they were seeking was watching them.  The creature had been trailing them since they entered the foothills, always staying just outside their sensory range.

\*\* Elders, \*\* the creature called mentally back to his people, \*\* they venture closer.  I've over heard them talking and they intend to find our lands. \*\*

\*\* Continue to watch them, youngling, \*\* the reply came back to him, backed by several other voices behind them.  \*\* Make sure they don't mean to cause us any trouble and make double sure that they don't have the blood of the ancient one in them.  She has proven to be a persistent one in the past to find us. \*\*

\*\* But she hasn't bothered us in the last several centuries, Elder, \*\* another voice spoke up.  \*\* Even her hyunnitarri have diminished in number since our parents were sucklings. \*\*

In the background of the mental link the creature shared with others of his kind, he heard others agree, some more vocal than others, but the general consensus was the same.  Their lives had been more peaceful in recent times.  He was too young to have known about the hunts others have escaped but he knew the stories as well as any other of his people.  The ones he was watching now didn't seem to be like those he had heard about in his youth.

\*\* True that. \*\* the elder's voice was heard over the rest, quieting them down with a greater sense of will, \*\* But remember, the dark one who was the protector of her world has since left.  There is no telling what she may do to finish us off. \*\*

A single voice, soft and tender with sense of wonder felt behind each word broke through the chaos of so many minds together.  \*\* Why should we fear what this one may do to us before she has even found us?  Let us trust the intentions of this strange woman and her god-like companion and see if she means us ill or not.  Surely, someone who has done nothing against another could be so terrible. \*\*

The tension from all the minds could be felt and emanated in waves from the suddenly enthralled creature listening to the others talk and watching the winged feline while she slept.  \*\* Sky, you honestly do not comprehend what we're talking about.  We are in danger with this woman looking for our homeland and us. \*\*

\*\* I do understand what you and the others mean, \*\* Sky replied gently and with far more patience than what of the others have shown.  \*\* But, use your senses, SunSet, does she feel like one of the hyunnitarri we have been told about?  What does your gut tell you, brother?  Surely you trust your own instincts since you do live beyond our borders among the wild animals. \*\*

The creature had to concede to the other's wisdom.  The others who were just as vocal as him quieted when they realized that their only scout was faced with the truth of his own instincts.  He had, in fact, not felt any malice from the young woman or her companion nor did he feel anything that resembled the hunters he had been told about since he had been a tiny cub in his mother's arms.  

What he did feel was something else.  A sense of curiosity about the beautiful woman and strange kind of allure coming from her.  When he looked at her, he felt only love and kindness coming from her and dancing about in the subtle glow of her divine aura.  As much as he wanted to mislead her to protect his people, he knew she wouldn't harm them or anyone else.  \*\* SkyDrifter, you are correct, \*\* he admitted at last.  \*\* I don't sense the intent of the hunters in her.  Only something else entirely, something hard to explain but it is all good. \*\*

Amidst the sudden quiet of the minds together, SkyDrifter spoke again, \*\* Elder, if SunSet doesn't sense any malice from them, only good, should he not try to aid her in finding us?  I don't think she would be seeking us if there wasn't a good reason.  No one would, just as the dark one had told us before she left. \*\*

\*\* You speak the truth my child, \*\* the Elder's mental voice said over the lower hum of the others.  \*\* Do not hinder them, SunSet, but don't aid them any more than you need.  This is their quest to complete, not ours. \*\* The other voices rose in volume before the will of the elder quieted them again.  \*\* SkyDrifter, these two will be your responsibility.  If they do anything threatening against us, you will have to take care of them personally.  Am I clear on this? \*\*

\*\* Yes, Elder, \*\* came SkyDrifter's immediate reply before her presence was dampened and her thoughts disconnected from the rest of the beings listening and conversing within the same mental link.

After SkyDrifter left, SunSet prepared to quiet the other minds in his own.  \*\* I will, Elder.  They will receive no aid from me. \*\*

Well into the night, SunSet waited for the other to return.  When Sareena finally came back, he had fallen asleep, dreaming of the simpler times when he was a cub.  The voices of the two cats jarred him from his dream as they prepared to move on to a better place to camp for the rest of the night.  He watched them, wondering as the feral looking cat changed to resemble the other and share a tender moment before they took flight.

Side by side, only their wings preventing them from touching, Sareena and Sirabe flew toward the mountains.  The cool night air whipped the young woman's hair about behind her like a golden flame.  Not until they landed outside a dark cave did they finally speak again.

“I really don't feel the need to sleep as much as what I used to, Sirabe,” said the young woman as she walked toward the entrance of the cave.  “But, I do understand that I should rest.  There's a strange feeling of being energized when I do.”

The winged cat paused, falling a few steps behind.  “That should not be happening just yet, Sareena.  You haven't found what you've been looking for.”  With graceful strides, she jogged to catch up with the younger feline.  “We still have a long way to go.”

Though she heard and understood what her companion meant, Sarri grasped her by the paw and lead her inside.  What appeared to be a normal cave outside looked like a warm inviting bedroom inside with a large soft bed and a blazing fire to warm them as they rested.  The scent of food and drink filled the air, inviting them to enter and relax until they needed to move on.

“I know, but I cannot stop what is happening,” the young cat said with a soft smile.  “Things are happening too quickly.  Somehow, I know... no, I feel, Bast fading quickly.  There is still much you have to explain to me, before I am able to find this special person and why.”

Sirabe sighed, knowing all too well what is in store for them with her soon to be mistress gaining more and more of her godliness with each passing day.  “There is more than I have time to explain, My Lady.”

Sarri nodded and settled herself down in a chair with a cup of warm tea and started sipping at it.  “Explain the most important to me, then, such as why me being her daughter will be a problem where we are going.  It shouldn't matter if I am or not unless something happened somewhere in the past.”

Following her example, the older feline got herself a cup of tea then sat by the feet of her soon to be mistress.  After taking a sip, she sighed then started her tale.  “It began long ago.  Back when I was a tiny cub suckling at my mother's teat.  At the time, I was too young to understand but my dam explained it to me as I grew.”

“After the Mistress and her siblings changed the world, she decreed that there will be no more new creatures allowed.  Only those who existed before could live harmoniously until she felt that the reformed people could accept the new and unique.  Those first furs were once called humans, furless creatures that resembled the wild apes.  She feared what they might do if they jumped forward too quickly once again.

“Not long after these new furs spread out to make their homes in the new world, the elves, dwarfs, and other creatures of ancient legends returned and took their places among the new furs, living as they had once before.  Mistress did not mind them being there, for they had been a part of this world before and welcomed them back.  Around the same time, while these ancient people were settling in, something strange and wondrous happened.

“The earth, as we all know, is alive.  The spirit which dwells within this earth had been sleeping; growing and evolving since the day of its creation.  One day, that spirit awakened and the world itself brightened with this new life.  It was as if someone had lit a torch in a dark room filled with diamonds.  Everyone could feel the newly awakened spirit breathe and acknowledge everything that took place from the tiniest life being conceived to the death of a giant.

“Mistress welcomed the new spirit and showed her the same love and kindness that she gave everything else then gave the earth spirit a name, Gaia.  Gaia watched the many lives which she housed, loving them as her own but feeling no connection with them except that they needed her as much as she needed them.

“Feeling sorrow that there was something missing, Gaia conceived a new creature, one that came from her.  From the different felines, she crafted a creature that would be able to use the magics related to the natural world.  When the mistress found out, she was mad, but she calmly explained to Gaia that this new creature could not be, it was against the laws she had created.  Gaia refused and hid her new creature away so she could finish making the first ones.

“Mistress became furious and found the creatures before anything else could be done to them and cursed them into a life as only feral, mindless, cats.  In her growing wisdom, Gaia found a way around the curse, giving her new creatures the ability to change, but they still retained much of their feral nature.  Without the help of either, the creatures grew and gained intelligence quickly, much to the Mistress' dismay.

“The creature Gaia created is peaceful and not prone to fight, even among themselves.  They are a shy, reclusive race to begin with, but when the Mistress' attempts to kill them failed, she created an ability that was possessed by the best and strongest hunters.  It allowed them to sense these creatures no matter where they were hiding or in what shapes they were in.  Those hunters hunted them with no mercy and grew rich off their pelts until one fateful day.

“The Fates saw something in those new creatures that would prove useful later and they have done what has been needed now as a result.  The Fates helped them to evolve, bringing in new blood to help them grow; such as dragons for flight, unicorn to heal and magic, gryphons and others.  The last of their growth was reached before the Great War, well after the Mistress decided to leave them be and took back the hunter's ability to track and find them.  All the gods still have much to fear from them, but in all the adversity, they have done nothing to cause any with divine blood to wipe them out.

“These creatures are aware of what they can do to divinity but have not threatened any of them with this fact and keep it well under control and hidden from general knowledge.”

Sareena had listened intently while the story was told.  It had explained a lot of what she had overheard when the former Guardian was visiting her mother and the few strange conversations from others visiting the temple.  It gave her plenty more to think about and a new purpose to find these creatures she was seeking.

After finishing off her tea, Sarri asked, “What are these creatures called?  Surely, they are named something that is taboo or something like that.”

Looking up at her with sorrowful eyes, the elder cat purred, “They are called Kiyrie, children of Gaia.  I have never seen one personally, but I am told they resemble cats with wings like my own and long fluffy tails.  They are very shy and don't leave their lands unless there is a need.  But... there are a few, I am told, that are more outgoing and live among the furs to watch and learn so that others, can venture out and blend in.”

“They sound like a good and kind people, Sirabe,” she said softly while contemplating her cup.  “It is a sad thing that Bast has done them wrong in the past.  I never thought she was capable of doing such things.”

“No one thought she could,” said the older cat, “but she did out of pure rage.  Now, in her end days, she feels so much remorse for what she had done and there is no way she can make amends.”

Turning her gaze from the cup to the cat-woman sitting by her feet, she nodded then smiled.  “Bast can't, but I can.  Whether or not I am able to complete this quest in time, I will find some way to make it up to the Kiyrie and set right what was done.  It is the least that I can do.”

Smiling, the old panther placed her hand-paws on Sarrie's knees then nuzzled at her thigh gently.  “You are a special woman, Sareena.  You will make a wonderful goddess when the time comes.”

Though she returned the smile, her eyes didn't reflect when she felt.  “What about you, and the other avatars?  What will become of you when she is gone?”

Faced with the question, Sirabe shook her head then sank down onto her knees.  “I don't know.  I feel my connection with her weakening and yet I still feel as though she were in  full possession of her power.  It’s strange how strong I feel knowing she will soon be gone.”

Slipping from the chair to sit on the floor with her, Sarri tried to peer into the elder's eyes by leaning over to get below her and look upward into her face.  “With what we've shared already, I don't want to lose you so soon.  There is still so much you can teach and guide me through.”

Where a frown once was, a smile took its place as her words sunk in.  “Thank you, My Lady.  You don't know what this means to me.”

Grinning, Sarri gave her nose a lick then sat up and leaned back on her heels and palms.  “I think I have an idea what it means to you.  When I ascend, I want you to be my avatar and my companion.”

“What does it mean to be a companion,” asked the panther softly while she looked into the golden feline's eyes.  “That is something I do not know much about.  We avatars were originally wild cats which the Mistress found and changed into what we are now.”

For a moment, Sarri looked thoughtful then smiled, “A companion, to me, is someone whom I care about deeply.  They are my friend and lover.  Not quite mates, but that can always change later as our bond grows.”

“I see,” said the old panthress before she leaned over to kiss the younger.  As she leaned over further, Sareena pulled her close, holding her tight against her body.  Finding herself in a situation she wished she were younger for, the elder cat helped her new companion disrobe then gently pushed her back onto the floor.

Watching from just outside the cave, SunSet had listened to the last of the story and witnessed the vow that Sareena made.  He felt and heard the truth in her words and smiled.  As the two forged a stronger bond between them and made love there on the cave floor; he watched, amazed and astounded that the golden haired feline wasn't just another female cat.

It was dawn before the newly united pair had finished their love making and spent most of the day sleeping in the comfort of their cave.  As evening fell once again, they talked and explored one another's bodies before falling asleep in each other’s arms with wings wrapped around them tenderly.  Neither realized that their trysts were gradually bringing the avatar over to Sareena's power and linking them together, nor did they seem to care.  All that mattered to them was each other and their bond.

Together, they navigated the treacherous air currents between the mountains; working their way ever deeper with each passing day.  By night, they sheltered in crevices or caves where the colder air could not reach them.  What hunting they did was on the fly and cooked over meager fires.  By night, they held each other to keep warm and talked to pass the time before they needed to rest.

One afternoon, they found a tiny village tucked away in a green valley.  The cottages and stores looked like something from a forgotten time along the cobblestone road leading through the middle of the village proper.  Farmland, scattered in wide swathes near the mountain walls, had fields of grains and produce growing in the fertile soil.  Along the sides, ledges filled with evergreen trees where hunters watched the pair as they glided down toward the small town.

The native people, a race of mountain goat folk with horns that arched back over their heads, watched as the two came in to land and fold their wings back.  Adults and children alike stared at them, never seeing two such felines before though the road through their valley had seen some travelers in years long passed.  With the exception of the ever present wind, all was quiet.

“Greetings,” Sareena said with a warm and welcoming smile to those who were staring at her,  “I was wondering if there is an inn or someplace that my companion and I may rest and eat?”

What appeared to be an elder stepped forward and looked the two over with a certain amount of caution before she finally spoke in a creaky old voice, “Follow the road to the center of the village.  You will find the inn there.”

“Thank you, madam,” Sarri said then bowed to the old goat before heading toward the village.  At first, it looked as though no one would move out of their way.  Then, one by one, they stepped aside, staring at her and her very nude companion.

As they walked by, both overheard whispers about them, wondering about the strange winged women and why one had no clothes.  Speculation where they came from ran rampant among the goat people.  Only the small children showed no fear or distrust of them and returned to their playing by the roadside.

“My Lady,” Sirabe said softly after stepping up to Sareena's side, “it seems these folk have not seen anything like us before.  I sense fear and mistrust in them.  Just to be safe, we should not stay long.”

Looking around at the valley itself, the golden cat nodded.  “I sense the same, my friend.  This village is pretty secluded, even with an old trade route coming through here.  I wonder how long it has been since the last caravan came this way?”

Becoming tense and looking back at the still whispering adults behind them, the older cat shrugged.  “No telling, but I would say it has been a long time.  Perhaps a century or two if they haven't seen strangers before.”

Without looking back, the younger woman nodded, then said, “Perhaps we can look into the reason why when we leave.  We know the way we came in is clear.  If there is something preventing travelers from coming from the east, then they would have to make an alternate route to reach the western end of the Spine.”

“We don't have time to be solving these villagers’s lack of visitors’ problem... if there is one,” Sirabe insisted, “I can barely feel the mistress as is now.  We don't have time to waste.”

Stopping in mid step, the golden haired cat spun around to look her companion in the eye.  “I know.  I understand that we don't have time to spare at all.  You keep telling me this.”  As exasperated as she sounded, she truly did understand.  “If the problem is along the route we take, then we should do something to help them.  It could help improve things for them, or at least make them friendlier to people passing through.”

Flailing arms and all, Sirabe took it in stride and just looked at her.  “You can do that after you have ascended, My Lady.  You need to focus on finding that valley and the Kiyrie right now.”  Seeing the determination in her eyes, the old cat gave way a little to her will, “But, as long as it is along our route... “

A smile formed, brightening Sarri's face.  “Good.  As long as we can agree on that much. I promise, we won't go searching every road and game path to do it.”  Her smile brightened further and she grasped her companion's hand-paw.  “Come on.  I could use a little something to eat and a bath.”

“There is something strange about those two women,” an elderly goat said quietly to the old woman who had spoken to the visitors.  “I don't like what it is I'm feeling.”

“Neither do I,” came the terse reply.  The old female goat watched the pair as they strolled toward town with others slowly following after them.  “We'll have one of the younger men keep an eye on them.”

Whispers flew back and forth among the townsfolk while they followed Sareena and her avatar.  Only flashes of words or windswept thoughts could be heard by both of them as they made their way to the inn.  Occasionally, one or the other would glance back to see how close they were until they reached their destination.

As they ate their simple meal, they were watched by the curious goat people.  The attention started to make even Sareena nervous.  When the two elderly goats entered the inn and took up seats close by to watch them with steady gazes, the golden feline began to feel a terrible unease.  The sensation made the fur along her spine rise and tingle as if something were going to happen very soon.

Leaning over, Sirabe asked, “Do you sense something, My Lady?”  Her yellow eyes darted over the room, taking in each of the villagers closest to them while she lifted her mug to her lips.

No word was uttered.  She only nodded to her companion then glanced toward the two newest arrivals.  Though she hadn't had much, she set her knife down then pushed the plate away.  With just a nod, she motioned toward the door then stood.

Not sure what was going on, the black feline followed without a backward glance toward their unfinished meal.  She wasn't hungry, nor did she need to eat.

Without appearing to be rushed, the pair left and headed toward the edge of town.  Behind them, the villagers emerged from the inn and stood there watching them as they left before deciding to follow.  In a ragged line, the followed at a distance, watching the two women with an intensity that made them nervous.

Near the back of the line, the two elders pulled a few of the younger, stronger, males aside and spoke to them in hushed tones.  They talked until the last of the stragglers left the inn to be cleaned by the owners.  All that was left was the growing sense of animosity and the small group of young men to jog after the departing women and the line of people.

“Are they still following us,” the golden cat asked while walking faster along the deeply rutted road.  She had spotted the last building of the town pass as they made their way out and the cobblestones became more and more sparse, until there was nothing more than dried mud beneath their feet.

A soft sigh answered before the dark furred feline spoke.  “Unfortunately, yes, they are.  It seems they are far too curious about us.”

Slowly, Sareena nodded then looked back to see the group of four sturdy goats jog alongside the meandering line of villagers.  “I don't like the feeling I am getting from them.  I didn't like what I felt from the elder we spoke to, either.”

Slowly, the older cat nodded then looked at her carefully.  “What do you feel towards the old woman and her people?”

“Pity, mostly,” came Sarrie's reply.  “Pity that they live in such conditions.  Pity that they are cut off from the rest of the world, and pity that they don't trust or like us when they haven't tried to know us.”

After looking back over her shoulder once more at the advancing line of villagers, the older feline nodded.  “It is how your sire would feel if she met these townsfolk.”  A faint smile flickered across her muzzle before she turned and started walking faster.  “My Lady, I think we should hasten our steps.  The ones which are moving quickly do not have the look of someone wishing us to return under good terms.  There is a haze of darkness swirling around them, I fear.”

Rather than quickening her pace, Sareena paused and turned to watch the four gain on them.  As her ears flicked back against her head, she nodded then started to walk with more purpose to what looked to be a boundary line across the valley ahead of them.  “I agree, my friend,” she said softly then broke out into a lope to keep distance between her and the approaching goat-men.

Beside her, Sirabe did the same though her wings flared open briefly to catch the slow breeze meandering through the tall grasses beside the road.  With each glance over her shoulder, the four had gained on them.  Feeling no fright, only protective of her soon to be goddess, the black cat settled into a run and looked skyward to sense a stronger wind to lift her from the ground.

Seeing her lover dash ahead, Sarri ran to catch up, almost breathless from the exertion and starting to feel her energy wane.  Though she didn't look back, she knew why the elder started to run and did what she could to keep up with her.  It was rare she ever had to run and just wasn't prepared for the dash to border.

What they had thought was a boundary line turned out to be a deep stream crossing their path.  It was just too far to jump easily, leaving them with the only choice of swimming across.  Upon entering the cold water, they knew they should have found a better way to cross.  The water was frigid and made muscles tense to the point of stopping them in their tracks.  A swift current hid beneath the calm surface, pulling them down stream and back toward the goat village even as they tried to swim across.  Only sheer force of will pushed them onward to cross.  

Half way, the current pulled Sarri beneath the water, shocking her into releasing the spell that gave her wings for flight and sending her into a spin as she sputtered for breath.  With the water tugging at her and freezing her limbs, all she could do was try to keep her head above water and try to reach of the dangling branches hanging over the water.

Sensing the plight of her companion, Sirabe forced herself to go after her.  Struggling more against the cold and the water pulling at her wings, she pulled at the water but found herself entangled in the water plants beneath the surface.  All she could do was watch her lover be dragged away by the current.

Over all the rush of water, Sarrie's voice was heard crying out for help when she wasn't spitting water from her mouth.  Her panic told the goats where to find her and they kept pace along the shore until they came across some boulders sitting in the water to reach out and drag the cat from the water, weak and half drowned from her experience.  Even though she was cold, two of them held onto her while the other two watched for the other to come near them.

Tucked against the mountain side, SunSet watched as the women entered the village then left quickly after.  He watched as they were followed, then chased from the village.  Thinking them to be safe, he took to the air to fly ahead.  But, when he heard Sareena's cries for help, he turned back, and watched as she drug out of the stream and held by two of the natives.  Just as he landed and crouched into the grass, Sirabe was captured and wrestled from the water; spitting and growling at her captors before one of them caught her off guard with a blow to the back of her head with a dead branch.   He almost gave himself away with his startled cry when the village men drug the unconscious cat away by the wings and carried the other.

\*\* Elders, \*\* he called back to his people with fear in his voice, \*\* the Chamois people have captured the two women. \*\*

\*\* What do you mean, child, \*\* one answered as other minds joined to listen to the news.  \*\* \*\* They have always been a peaceful people and kept watch over their valley and ours for ages. \*\*

\*\* I don't know, \*\* SunSet replied, \*\* but I just saw four of their men chase them into the river then fish them out.  They have one slung over their shoulder like a sack of fruit and the other... they knocked out with a club.  This isn't like them. \*\*

A murmur of voices rose up within his mind, distracting him from seeing where the two were taken.  He couldn't concentrate until they died down enough for him to see they were gone and venture to spot where Sirabe had been taken out of the river.

While he inspected the area, he listened.  \*\* Very strange indeed, \*\* a male voice rumbled over the elder's voices.  Another added, \*\* Does anyone think the Chamois may be encorcled or something? \*\*  More voices chimed in, becoming a flurry of questions and comments that SunSet couldn't make any coherent ideas from or focus on the evidence he saw in the fading light.

\*\* Quiet, children, \*\* an elder's voice roared above the rest, making even SunSet cringe from it.  \*\* This is not like our peaceful cousins.  See why they would change so much then return home. \*\*

Ears laid back, the feline nodded.  \*\* Yes, elder, but... what of the two women?  Shouldn't we do something about them?  If these people have changed so much since we last met with them... \*\*

\*\* They are none of our concern, \*\* the elder replied sternly.  \*\* They have at least kept them from finding our lands.  The blood of the goddess won't be entering these lands today, or any day. \*\*

\*\* But... \*\* he started then quieted and gave only the sensation that he would comply with the order.  Still, in his own heart, he knew he couldn't leave those two women captured.  He couldn't stand to see anyone hurt if he could do something to stop it.

Well after nightfall, Sirabe awakened, groggy and disoriented, with her head aching from the blow she took.  Trying to move, she found herself bound with ropes to bind her wings, wrists and ankles together.  She had been tossed into a pile of straw, the ends tickling at her ears and nose until she sneezed.  Groaning, she opened an eye to see Sareena across from her, hands and feet bound together and sitting against the wall opposite of her.  Her muzzle had been bound with cloth to keep her from crying out and her eyes were filled with tears.

Both looked like they had seen better days with their fur matted from mud and water and bits of straw and dust clinging to the damp spots and protruding from their hair.  Sarrie's clothes were still plastered against her body and torn in places.  One tear exposed her groin and part of her stomach.  She looked dirty and weak from the ordeal.

Pushing her own pain aside, the black cat squirmed on her side to get closer to her companion then rumbled, “By the Great Golden Goddess, are you okay, My Lady?  Did they hurt you?”

Shaking her head, the golden feline answered and tried to say something around her gag but ended up not being able to be understood.  Sighing heavily, her let her shoulders droop and her head hang.  Only her sniffles were fully heard for what they were.

“Don't fret, My lady,” the elder cat said with a reassuring purr, “I'll find a way to get us out of this.  I won't let any harm come to you.”

Just then, the door burst open and let brilliant torchlight flood the darkened room.  Only the full moon gave them any sort of light to see by and their eyes were dazzled by the torchlight as a result.  Smirking at the pair, the burly goat man strode in then grunted, “I see ye have woke up.  Good.  Der elder wants ta speak with, ye.”  Others behind him chuckled a most unwelcome sounding laugh.

Only their feet were unbound then the two were forced to their feet and made to walk from the hovel they were kept in to one of the sturdy stone houses at the edge of the little town.  The scent of a fire blazing and strange plants smoking burned their noses and made both of them gag, as a strange feeling started to creep up in the back of their minds.

As they stumbled to their knees before the elder goat lady they had first spoken to that day, the black cat took the moment to glance around and take note of her surroundings.  Where the candles and firelight touched, she saw things which didn't belong to a simple villager.

The stone walls wavered, looking hazy to the magical sight the avatar possessed.  As everything came more into focus the scent of the burning herbs filtered into her mind, she saw chains hanging on the walls with dried blood covering several of the links.  Tucked into a niche, a disembodied head leaned against its wall with a scream of terror frozen into the gaping jaws.  Though the horns were gone, the stubs left pointed to the victim belonging to the village.  Knives and swords decorated the mantle, glittering evilly from their displays as the light danced in its source.

Without warning, her heart started to race.  The scents of the room became sharper and the haze of her god given sight became too sharp to bear.  Details jumped out, stabbing into her memory like a knife, causing her pain as the voices of the dead were thrust upon her.  Only the sound of Sareena's sudden collapse and the look of fear frozen on her beautiful face kept her from succumbing to the evil magic being brewed in the cauldron hanging over the fire.

Smoke curled from the cauldron, winding its way through the room like a snake through grass.  It coiled around the old goat woman, enrobing her in the vile aromatics of her herbal selection.  As the smoke wound its way toward the avatar, the old woman sneered, curling her laps away from worn, yellowed, teeth.

“Well now,” said the goat in a voice far too smooth and young to be coming from a elder, “look what we have here, boys.  One of the old goddess' pets has come to our little den.”  Then, the face leered closer, “What brings you here, kitty.  Did she turn you away like she did the rest of us?”

Glaring up at the old goat, Sirabe snarled and flashed her teeth as the hot, fetid breath of the elder washed across her nose and through her whiskers.  “No,” came the guttural reply, “I wasn't.  The Mistress still has need of me and sent me on business through the valley.”  Then, she narrowed her eyes and gave the elder an intense look, trying to peer through whatever disguise was covering her.

Harsh laughter rang out as that wrinkled old face leaned away and the sagging body shuddered with mirth.  “Oh my, aren't we a brave little kitty.  I'm sure she is so proud of you, kitten.”  The sarcastic tone of the goat changed to something cold and chilling as her gazed narrowed and shriveled body tried to tower of the bound cat.  “Call your precious goddess.  I have business to settle with her and I won't be working through you to do it.”

“Call her yourself, old goat,” growled Sirabe while she glared into the eyes of her captor.  “You want the Mistress so badly, you have to summon her.  Not me.”

With a wave of her weathered hand, the old goat motioned one of her young minions to pick up the unconscious Sareena.  “I'll have to do what, hellcat?  I think not.”  The thin lips curled back in a sardonic sneer and the barest hint of a chuckle erupted from her throat like gravel trickling down a hillside.  “If you want your pretty little friend here to stay in one piece, you'll summon her, now.”

A low growl rumbled in the black cat's chest while she flashed her fangs at the elder and pinned her ears against her skull.  Hissing, she gave a wordless warning to the brash young man as he pressed a knife to her companion's throat.  “Harm her and there will be no mercy for your soul when I am through.”  Harsh that her words were, they didn't have quite the weight she desired knowing that her mistress was too weak to leave her domain.

Seeing the knife press against Sareena's throat, Sirabe tried to lunge at the burly goat and save her, but her bound feet and wings tripped her and the other three young men grabbed her arms and tail and yanked her back to the floor.  She struggled, making it difficult for them to pin her down.

“Still the feisty one, I see, kitten,” the elder goat scoffed then loomed over the still struggling, snarling, feline and pressed a hoofed foot against her shoulder blade and pushed her against the floor.  “Genki, kill her,” she ordered the one holding the golden cat then smirked at Sirabe.  “You just murdered your little friend.  How does it feel to know you caused her death?”

A surge of anger and fear filled Sirabe's heart when the order was given.  All she could see was the shadow of the goat man's arm rising to give the death strike.  In that moment, her power surged and she shifted from the form she adopted for her lover to her own natural body.    Though her wings didn't come free from their bindings, the ropes fell from her legs and freed her deadly claws before the shift was complete.

One.  Two.  Three swipes of her paws knocked the three males down in her attempt to get to her feet then she launched herself at the one threatening her companion.  Her attempt wasn't to be made for one of the males grabbed her by the tail and yanked as hard as he could to stop her short of killing his comrade.

With a yowl of pain, Sirabe hit the floor with a thud; effectively knocking the air from her lungs and stunning her.  Through hazy eyes, she saw the knife come down toward Sareena's throat then all went dark for her.

A shatter of glass accompanied by a roar echoed in the hovel as someone else decided to make an entrance.  SunSet had been watching through a window.  Though unable to see everything, or hear much, his instincts told him danger was present.  All he could see was Sirabe being tackled and held down then her valiant effort to save her lover before being knocked out.

He became blur of orange, red, and white fur once he got a good look at the startled occupants.  He nearly missed the shouted command to get him when he launched himself at the knife wielding goat.  Though smaller, the feline packed a solid punch with his shoulder just mere moments before the knife connected with the cat's throat.  The glint of metal made him shy away, tripping over a table and tumbling onto the floor.

Stunned for a moment, he blinked and looked up into the sneering face of the elderly goat.  Something about her made him shiver to his very core.  As she reached for him, he growled then rolled away from her and scrambled to his feet.  Ready for anything, he wiped at his muzzle with the back of his hand and saw a trickle of blood from a piece of broken glass.  “Leave them alone, old woman.  They didn't do anything to you,” he growled, ready to defend the pair he had been watching for several days.

“Oh my, another knight to defend the goddess' little kitten,” sneered the old goat.  “You don't look like one of her ilk, nor do you share the same magic aura.  So, why don't you just run along and let the pros work, kittling?”  She waved him off then motioned for one of the men to handle him.

As she turned her back, SunSet launched himself at the approaching male goat and swiped his claws across his muzzle; catching him off guard.  The fight was brief, the goat swinging once to defend himself then the feline punching him hard in the gut.  The thud he made on the floor made him smile, but his time to savor the moment was short.

The other two came at him to defend their buddy.  Ducking low, he made the two hit each other first, then came up and caught both in the groin with his fists.  All was silent for several moments as they gasped and groaned in intense pain then slid to the floor.  Their lesson was quickly learned; do not mess with strange cats.

The old goat suddenly turned to see how quickly the feline had dispatched her minions then glared at him.  With surprising speed for her age, she stepped up to him and grabbed his robe in her frail looking hands.  “You're a foolish cat.  I should skin you alive and sell your pelt to the highest bidder for disrupting my business.”

Looking into her eyes, the feline scowled then saw something deep in those brown depths something he had only heard stories of as a young kit.  He shuddered at his core then gripped her wrists with his strong hands.  “You don't have the strength or the power do anything, old woman.”

“Is that so, kittling,” chuckled the old goat then muttered a few unintelligible words.  The goat visage fell, leaving an equally old being that looked like a mix of wolf, lizard, and old wood.  She creaked audibly with her few movements and the stench of her spell being removed curled his whiskers in a way he never thought possible.  “I think I may have a little something left to handle a cub like you.”

Clenching her wrists tight, SunSet twisted and pushed her back, growling at her with both fear and anger.  “I doubt that, old woman.  Your time is finished.”

She looked surprised as he forced her hands to open and pushed her back.  She glared back at him, meeting his gaze and seeing far too much hiding deep within his eyes and a future she could no longer keep a hold on her own.  Little by little, she was pushed back, her own magic crackling around her as it discharged randomly in thin bolts of lightning; shattering the objects they hit.  With one final shove, she fell back into a chair, defeated all too easily.

“Who are you,” she huffed with effort.  “No one has been able to defeat me so easily.”

SunSet just looked at her, smirked, and then took up one the ropes laying on the floor before proceeding to tie her to the chair.  “No one special,” he said plainly.  As quickly as he could, he trussed her up and tied the knots as tight as he could before turning his attention to the two women laying on the floor.

Sareena was starting to stir and soft little sounds were rippling up from her throat as consciousness started to return.  Glancing back at the old woman, he thought for a moment, then picked up Sareena and disappeared.  Moments later, he returned empty handed then disappeared with Sirabe before anyone else could stir.

On a ledge further down the valley from the chamois village, where an old avalanche still blocked the old trading route, Sareena awoke to the sight of the moon rising above the mountain and stars spattering the night sky.  The wind had grown cold without the sun to warm it and she shivered against the chill.  She felt weak after her experience in the old goat’s home but so happy to be away from the village.

Nearby, some wood was stacked and a spot large enough for a fire was cleared.  Positive that someone had set it for them, she looked around to see if they were close by, but it was too dark to see far in the dim light of the moon.  More cold than curious, the golden cat set to making a fire to warm herself  before thinking about finding some food.

Well after the fire was blazing, Sirabe awakened, shaking herself vigorously before considering the fire and the open ground they were resting on.  “Where are we, My Lady,” she asked, wincing at the sound of her voice as it echoed in her skull.

“Oh!” exclaimed Sareena when she heard the voice, then smiled, “You're awake.  Good.”  Happy that her companion had awakened, she moved over to sit by her and started to work the ropes loose around her wings.  “I'm not sure, but I think we're at the far end of the valley from where we were.  How we got here, I don't know, but at least we're not in that place any longer.”

More than happy to have her wings freed, the black cat nodded then looked around, sighing heavily.  “I see,” she rumbled, wincing as delicate fingers touched rope burns on sensitive skin.  “No clues as to our exact location?”

“None, I'm sorry to say,” the golden cat said before pausing.  Her fingers traced over the black cat's side, gently petting across her stomach and flank when she felt something inside of her.  “Are you... feeling okay, Sirabe,” she asked after several seconds.

The feline looked at her curiously then shrugged her shoulders.  “No worse than you, My Lady.  Why do you ask?”  Tired as she felt, she returned to the adopted form of her lover then leaned against her side tiredly.

Smiling, Sarri wrapped an arm around her waist, just under her wings then nuzzled at her ear softly.  “Because... I sense new life in your womb,” she purred, happy that someone was carrying a cub belonging to her.  “You're pregnant.”

Surprised by the announcement, Sirabe sat up quickly then backed away from her companion.  “Pregnant?  How?  I've not had cubs in... ages.  Only another avatar like me can... how?”

Frowning, Sareena watched, her ears dropping.  She had hoped Sirabe would share the happiness of the news.  “Just like with anyone other female is how, my love.  We've made love several times during our flight.  It would make sense that you'd eventually conceive after so much sex.”

“I know that but... I'm an avatar of Bast.  We've all been told that only our deity could... unless...”  Her eyes went wide as realization set in and she looked at her companion with new eyes.  “Some how... you have claimed me as your avatar.  Now I know why I cannot feel the Mistress as I used to.  My connection to her is so weak now... it’s like she is no longer there.”  She paused, thinking back to what her own dam had taught her as a young cub.  “This means all her avatars are now yours.” 

Sareena watched as Sirabe prostrated herself in front of her and reached to touch her hands.  “What are you doing,” she asked, confused and unsure how to take this sudden change in her lover.

“You are my new Mistress,” she said, voice low and soft, a rumbled purr heard over the night breeze and crackling fire.  “Your whims are my command.”

“No, Sirabe,” she said gently, if sternly, “you are my lover and friend.  I don't want you as a slave or avatar.  I want you as my companion.”  She couldn't help but to think the position her lover was in was sexy and turned her on in such a way her torn dress was sliding down the length of her shaft.

Spotting the obvious erection growing as she looked up at her, the black cat smiled then crawled over to kiss the tip of her lover's shaft.  Their eyes met for a moment, sharing a loving smile and a grateful nod.  “Then I will be your lover and friend, My Lady.”  Slowly, she lifted herself up and leaned onto one arm so she could begin stroking the proud member.

A soft gasped escaped from her parted lips as Sareena closed her eyes.  The touch of her lover's hand made her quiver and ache to have more of her.  Urged on by the stroking fingers, she pulled Sirabe up and planted a deep kiss on her lips.  Their bodies pressed together, becoming one as they made love beneath the stars and reaffirmed their feelings for one another.

Morning came and found the pair sleeping together beneath the avatar's wing for warmth.  The fire had since burned out, nothing more than smoldering coals amid wind stirred ashes.  Warmed by the sun as the first rays slanted down onto their ledge, they awoke and smiled into each other's eyes.  Safe and secure, they snuggled for a bit longer until hunger drove them out of their warm haze and faced the day.

Together, they surveyed the blocked trade road below them.  It looked like several rock falls had built up over the years, but both could see the evidence of someone or something having blasted the valley wall higher up from their ledge on the opposite side.  Huge chunks of granite lay across the road with smaller rocks and debris filling in the spaces so nothing could get by without flight or magic.

“You know,” said Sareena after getting a good look at the damage done, “We should try to clear this so they won't be quite so shy around strangers.  Maybe someone can help keep elements like that old goat woman from sneaking in and causing trouble for other travelers.”

Nodding, Sirabe agreed.  “You are right, My Lady.  It could take some time for them to become social again as the opened road becomes known once more.”  Then, turning her gaze to her lover, she smiled.  “We work together; we can get this taken care of in no time.”

Sareena laughed then nodded before stepping off the ledge to glide down to the valley floor on large feathery wings.  Just as she landed, Sirabe was there beside her and together, they combined their magics to move the rocks.

Showing some artistic ability, the boulders and rocks were stacked to either side and made into an arch which was held tightly with cement created from their magic.  It would hold for a very long time.  On one side, a stair led up to the ledge where they stayed and other rocks set up to create a small shelter for future travelers.  With everything out of the way and the road cleared, they smiled at their handy work and strode through to resume their journey.

As they passed beneath their arch, they spotted in the dirt the shattered pieces of bone and weapons of those who had been trapped by the first avalanche.  The aura of withered magic still clung to the packed earth and the battered metal of what was once a sword.  In the sun, it shone like new and the haze of magic faded until the metal appeared dull once again.

“It's so sad that these souls had died like they did,” Sareena said while looking at each piece they passed.  “I can only hope they were given their due reward.”  With no idea if they were good or evil, she could only hope for the best for the lost lives.

“You're going to make a good goddess one day, My Lady,” the black cat purred while watching her lover.  “You care so much for everyone, even those who had died long before you were born.  Don't ever change, no matter what happens in the coming days.”

A soft smile curled across her muzzle as she looked at her dark furred friend.  “I'll do my best to not change, my dear,” she purred then reached to grasp her hand and gave it a squeeze.

Sirabe looked down at the simple gesture then lifted her eyes to look into her lover's eyes.  Her muzzle twitched as a smile formed and her whiskers fanned into a feline grin.  “I know you will,” she agreed then moved closer, offering the protection of her leathery wing across her feathered appendages.

”May I ask you a question,” Sarri asked a she watched her new companion walk beside her as easily as anyone born to the bipedal form.

She looked at her, curious, head tilted slightly to one side before answering.  “I don't see why not, My Lady.  You are my mistress.  There is no need to ask, just say what you want.”

Nervous laughter rippled from the golden furred feline's throat then she nodded and paused to give her friend her full attention.  “I know, but I see you as more than just an avatar, Sirabe.  You are more than that, to me.”  She then smiled at her and formed her question.  “When avatars are pregnant, are they able to make full use of their powers?  I mean like shifting from one form to another, or into a stone statue.”  After pausing a moment longer, she then added, “Normal furries, such as my sister and the other acolytes in the Temple have to be careful or the magic used could harm the new life before it can take hold firmly.  Most cannot survive the full term if the mother shifts a lot.”

It wasn't a question the black leopard expected and one she never thought about.  Her silence lingered as she gave the reply serious consideration.  “I don't think so, My Lady,” she rumbled after several minutes.  “We have always been active until the day our young are born, no matter how long that could take.  When we assume our hibernation form, the statues, every part of us is frozen, including the cubs inside of us.  When we awaken, so do they and thrive as if nothing happened.  Usually, we remain in our natural bodies with little change, so I don't know if my changing forms will harm it or not.”

Giving her hands a gentle squeeze, Sarri nodded then looked into her eyes.  “Just to be sure, don't try to change forms until after our child is born.  Let’s not take any more chances until we're sure she'll be unharmed by the magic.”

Sirabe blinked while she looked deep into the blue depths of her eyes before it sunk in fully.  “I understand, My Lady.  I will do as you ask, but if I need to protect you, I will do so in whatever way I deem necessary.”  After another moment, an ear flicked and her brow furrowed.  “Did you say she?”

Sarri nodded then kissed her companion's forehead.  “Good.”  Confident her only cub will be safe and allowed to grow strong within the avatar's womb; she smiled brightly and nodded emphatically.  “I did.  I can sense what the gender will be as well as how strong they are.  We will have a daughter.”  Just the thought of siring her own child made her giddy.

As much as she wanted to deny it, she did want to know about the child she held inside of her.  A smile tugged at the corners of her muzzle again then laughter erupted from her maw after seeing how excited Sarri was.  “You are a strange woman, My Lady, but you do know the feelings of warmth and love in my chest.”  

The golden-furred cat could only giggle then took her companion by the hand and lead her down the road to their destination.  For the rest of the day, they talked about what lay ahead and their hopes of finding the mysterious being that was so pure.  What feelings of trepidation that were had dissipated with the evening light when they finally located a cave to spend the night reinforcing their unique bond as companions and master and minion.

As the ripples in the pool spread out and disrupted the scene of demigoddess and avatar making love in the cave, Bast leaned back on her settee and sighed a long, lonely, sigh.  She could no longer feel any of her avatars now that the eldest of them carried the child of their soon-to-be-goddess within her womb.  It was something she didn't expect to happen before Sareena was in place.  As pleasant as the news was to her, she couldn't bring herself to smile.

Without her avatars drawing energy from her constantly, she felt light and airy, but she wasn't any more energetic than she was while they were still bonded to her.  She missed them, even the ones whose future she wasn't so sure of, left a gaping hole in her spirit that she didn't realize they had filled.  They were all she had left of her people and their first sire.

“It is passed time for you to move on,” a soft, genderless voice whispered in the goddess' ear.  “Your daughter cannot ascend with you still occupying the seat of this world's domain.  If you wait too much longer, you won't be able to move on to your new place in the universe.”

Startled, the cat-headed woman dropped her hand from her face and tilted her head back to look up at the shadowy being standing just behind her with blazing eyes reflecting inner calm.  “Fate,” she uttered gently, “you surprised me.”  Slowly, the old goddess, skin pale and fur dull and dry with age and long white hair where it used to be golden, sat up and regarded the mysterious being.

“I know, I should have left days ago, but I want to see the moment when she will meet her destiny,” she said with a wistful sigh.  “All hope rests in the arms of this young woman.”

Somehow, the featureless face smiled then the soft voice whispered, “We know, honored Bast.  Her time draws near and all who are connected to the earth can sense the impending change.  Even the guardian you have set to replace Sabbath knows that soon, things will change.”

As she slowly shook her head, Bast stood then looked into the calm waters of her divining pool again.  “They watch her, waiting for the signs to come.”  She sighed again, hesitant about leaving but knowing that she needed to move on.  “I am afraid to leave this world before she is ready.  It cannot survive for long without someone occupying the seat of the domain.”

“Honored Bast,” Fate whispered as she drifted to stand beside the saddened goddess, “you must let go of this world.  It will sustain itself for a short time.  Long enough for your child do what she needs to do.”

Turning to look at the wispy figure beside her, the woman nodded then asked, “Will she succeed, Fate?  Will be she able to fill this world with new life for the people who call it home?”

“I am not allowed to answer these questions, Honored Bast,” came the whispered reply.  “Have faith in your child.  If you cannot believe in her, then all will be lost.  Her strength comes from you, no matter where you are.”

Turning away from the diving pool, Bast nodded then walked over to the dais and looked out across the expanse of the world below her.  It didn't seem as bright as it used to.  Softly, she wept and let her tears fall through the clouds to land in mysterious places far below.  

Fate watched then faded away as silently as she had arrived; leaving the old goddess alone to do what she needed to do.

“I trust you to be ready when the time comes, my daughter,” the goddess whispered while looking down at the mountains below her in the darkness.  “I know you will do a far better job than I did and heal the wounds I had created.”

“The time has come for you to go,” a disembodied voice echoed in the room, booming yet so gentle and soft.

The walls fell away, leaving just the dais and a single sun gold seat waiting for its new occupant.  Shimmering ghosts of ancient birds swirled around the goddess as she closed her eyes tight and lifted her arms to the sky.  “I am ready,” she said to the universe before the winds came from the four corners of the earth and swept her away into the aether.

With the absence of the goddess, the colors of the earth faded; no longer quite as vibrant as they were when she was there.  Children the world over cried, grieving for what was now missing and their mothers held them close, looking beyond to see what had frightened their young.

The earth shuddered with the release of Bast's power; causing tidal waves which lifted boats from above the beaches before slamming them down into the water again.  In the wake of the massive waves, magic faded; everyone's talents weakened.  Finally, with the last of Bast's awesome powers receding, her Temples grew quiet and the flames guiding her priesthood sputtered then died, leaving them in the dark until the sun returned in the morning.

Awakened by the shuddering the earth, Sareena sat up and looked around; confused by what had just happened.  Fearing for her safety and that of her pregnant lover, she shook Sirabe awake and grabbed her clothes from the floor beside her feet.  Dust was sifting down from the ceiling, making the firelight hazy as they made their escape into the pre-dawn light.

“Something's wrong,” the golden-furred cat gasped while trying to catch her breath.  “Things don't seem right, anymore.”

Yawning, the black cat peered at her lover then looked around, unable to see much in the dim light.  “What do you mean, My Lady,” she mumbled before sitting down on loosened rocks outside the cave.

“I don't know, Sarri replied, worried for no real reason and feeling tense all of a sudden.  “It feels like there is something missing and I can't quite put my finger on it.  Do you sense anything off?”

The older cat shrugged then yawned again.  “I'm too tired to sense much right now.  Come back and rest with me until there's more light to see by.”  She held a hand out for her young companion to hold while she looked up at her with sleepy yellow eyes.

After giving her friend a searching look, Sareena looked back at the cave then took the feline's hand before pulling her up into her arms and kissed her cheek.  “okay, Sirabe,” she said with a purr then smiled at her.  “We can curl up out here.  It's too dusty in that cave for us to breathe, now.”  She felt relieved that the avatar wasn't nervous and let her nerves settle.

On the soft grass, they snuggled up together and fell back to sleep in each other's arms until the sun rose.  Sarri couldn't fall asleep immediately, something still felt out of place.  Feeling more protective than before, she wrapped her arm around the leopard's waist and let her hand rest on her trim stomach just so she could feel the embryo inside.

When morning came, the landscape seemed different to the both of them.  The rocked appeared more gray and brown than normal and the grass not quite the same green.  The birds didn't chirp to welcome the new day which left the old road more silent than before.  It unnerved Sareena, but Sirabe didn't seem at all disturbed by the subtle changes.

“How much further do you think we have to go,” she finally asked the older cat after passing beneath a natural stone arch.

Pausing to look at her, the cat shrugged then looked up at the sky above and the rocky canyon walls.  “I'm not sure, but we should be getting close.  The landscape is starting to look familiar to me.”

Wide-eyed, Sarri asked, “How any times have you been to this secret land?”  Her curiosity was getting the better of her.

“Never,” the cat stated before looking at her companion.  “I've never been to those lands in my life, but I have seen the people who live there come and go from the entrance several times over the ages.”

About to ask why when given her answer, Sarri remained quiet for the rest of the explanation.  It seemed possible to her though why an avatar should know, she couldn't fathom.

“I know, because the Mistress wanted me to know,” the black cat said softly.  “She told me to find where they were entering our domain from and watch it.  She knew there were other places they entered from, but this one is the most stable and the primary opening.”  A secretive smile curved her muzzle while she looked sidelong at her lover.

Taken aback, the young feline blinked then narrowed her eyes.  “How did...?  Sirabe, did you read my mind?  Don't lie to me.  I don't appreciate anyone reading my thoughts without my permission.”

Laughing, the leopard moved ahead and opened her wings to stretch them.  “No, I didn't read your mind as you so quaintly put it, My Lady.”  Slowly, she turned and let the wind push against the great leathery sails between the delicate looking bones.  “I knew what you were thinking because an avatar is supposed to know,” she then said, “I also know you well enough now that you would ask how I know such things.”

Mouth hanging open and a finger raised as if to make a point, the younger woman paused, thought a moment then let it drop.  Her hand fell back to her side then she grinned and nodded.  “Okay.  I must say I will have to get used to having you do that.”

“You will, in time,” came the simple answer, and then she folded her wings again and started walking faster toward a shadowy part of the canyon.  “I think we have arrived, My Lady.  It has been a while since I last came this way, but I think the opening is through there.”  She then pointed into the deeper part of the shadows where the sun had no hope of ever reaching.

Peering into the canyon, Sarri asked, “Are you sure?” then stepped in slowly.  It felt cold without the warmth of the sun on her and the wind felt far too still after having it blowing against her for several miles.

“I'm sure,” the black cat replied then followed her in with ears pricked forward and senses on alert.

Watching from a ledge above, SunSet observed the pair approaching and waited.  He listened to the wiser cat then followed them into the canyon.  The elder was spot-on correct and he wondered why none of the goddess' minions had made use of the entrance before now.

Prepared to protect his people, he swooped down, his leathery wings booming against the wind with each beat before he managed to get ahead of them and block their path with his landing.  “Halt,” he commanded sternly, “You are not allowed to enter these lands.”

“What lands,” asked the younger feline while she looked quizzically at the rugged looking feline before her.  

His vibrantly colored fur seemed unnatural, but she couldn't detect anything on him that could, or would, make such bright colors.  The red, orange, and white formed three translucent bands on his partially opened wings and a similar pattern following the length of his body.  Only his long furred tail was made of smaller bands to end in a white tip.  His overall shape reminded her of a tiger though he bore no stripes.

He knew she was looking him over, assessing him on some level.  Rather proud of his appearance, he puffed up his chest but didn't take his eyes off the two women.  “The lands you are about to enter,” he said calmly.

“I don't see any lands in this dark canyon,” Sarri commented though she didn't disagree with him.  She knew the entrance had to be someplace.  Otherwise, she wouldn't be there and neither would he.

“My Lady,” Sirabe said softly close to her ear, “I believe he is one of the very people we are seeking.  My memory is old, but I seem to recall one similar to him from many decades ago. He must be one of their scouts to be willing to go beyond their borders.”

Nodding, the demigoddess looked him over again, but saw nothing familiar about him.  She had seen many different races and people during her travels but nothing quite like him.  “I see,” she responded to her lover then took a step toward the male.

Without moving, SunSet blocked their way and folded his arms across his chest.  “That is because the entrance is hidden so no one may look directly into them,” he remarked, trying to sound stern but not quite making it.

“Glancing at her lover once more, Sareena stepped closer to the brightly colored male then asked, “Why are we not allowed to enter your lands?  My companion and I mean no harm to you, or your people.”

The leopard nodded and stood behind her goddess, watching and listening, but prepared to pull her back should things start to go wrong.  This was her lover's task and she, as the avatar, was not allowed to ask for entry.  She was not allowed to venture so close before this day.

SunSet shook his head slowly and closed his eyes briefly before replying.  “None with the blood of the devil-god may enter these lands.  It is a law we have upheld since the first mixing of blood with other races.”

Sighing, the golden cat nodded then looked down at her feet.  “I understand,” she finally said with a soft voice.  “I know why my lineage is not allowed, but it is imperative that we enter.  I have to find someone very special in order to complete my final task.”  Slowly, she lifted her eyes, the blue depths dark in the faint light yet shining as if touched by the sun.  “I will give you my word as the daughter of a priestess that I will not bother anyone while I am within your realm.  What I need to do doesn't require anything more than to see and meet the most rare of all people.”

It took effort to keep from giving in to her request and the male shook from the tension it created.  “I am sorry, but you have the blood of the devil-god in your veins.  I cannot let you pass.”

“Please,” she almost begged, and then fell to her knees before the strong looking male.  “Please, let me complete my quest.  What can I do to make you believe that I mean no harm?”

His eyes opened wide when the beautiful feline knelt before him and looked up at him with tear filled eyes.  His every instinct screamed at him to drive her away, but his heart told him she spoke the truth.  If he had not been watching her, he would not believe anything she had uttered.

\*\* Elders! \*\* He called to his people.  \*\* The two women are here and asking for entry. \*\* His mind filled quickly with the different voices of his people; many frightened by the very idea of an outsider entering their homeland.

\*\* Have you told them they are not welcome here, \*\* one asked with a strong, sharp thought that made him wince.

Recovering, he watched the younger woman and memorized the soft fur being streaked with the few tears that escaped her control.  \*\* Yes, but she is here begging. She swears she will not harm anyone. \*\*

A resounding no rocked him back, making both women start and wonder why he seemed so distracted so suddenly.  Sarri automatically reached to help steady him while Sirabe edged closer, ready to catch him should he fall.  Both were confused by his strange behavior nor could they sense the conversation in his head.

Over the raucous din, a gentler voice spoke wisely, \*\* If she is truly distraught at not being able to meet us, then perhaps her intentions are pure. We all know that she has been seeking us.  Why should we deny her this much?  Brother, what does your heart say?”

\*\* SkyDrifter… \*\* SunSet began before he was drowned out by others.  Annoyed, he mentally shouted,  \*\* Quiet!  Let me answer, please.  You all know that I have been watching and tracking these two women.  I know what is at stake for them and why this one wants to end her quest so soon. \*\* Silence followed his pause then he took a deep breath and answered his sister.  \*\* My heart says they speak the truth.  I don't think either of them would hurt us right now. \*\*

\*\* What do your instincts say, \*\* another asked before the mental noise could rise up again.

\*\* My instincts say to drive them away, but that is self preservation.  We all know anything related to the devil-god is bad, but these two do not match anything in our history; not even the fabled hyunnitarri.  That is what my instincts still say but I know otherwise. \*\*

Watching intently, Sarri whispered to Sirabe, “What do you think is wrong with him?  He's acting so strangely and looking right through us.”

“I don't know,” came the whispered reply in Sarrie's ear.  The leopard moved closer, opening a wing to cover her goddess' back.  “I wonder if we shouldn't leave and try to enter when he's gone?”

Just as the pair were about to agree on trying later, SunSet came out of his strange trance and looked at them intently.  They had moved closer to him, almost touching him, and now the dark furred female seemed more protective of the other.  He began to have second thoughts but shoved them back and cleared his throat.

“I have thought this over,” he started, gathering their attention, “I will let you enter, but you must abide by your promise.  No one will be harmed while you are within our domain.  If you hurt anyone, you forfeit your lives.”

Both their ears flicked back, almost pinning against their skulls before Sareena nodded then stood.  “Thank you.  My word is my bond.  I will not harm anyone.  My stay should be brief while I search for the person I am seeking.”  Then, reaching to hold Sirabe's hand, she smiled, “We will not bother anyone.”

“No more than we absolutely have to,” commented the black cat.  Her yellow eyes didn't leave the male's gaze for a moment, finding something strange about him.  “I must warn, I will protect My Lady while she searches, so I expect everyone to keep their distance.”

SunSet grunted then turned and walked deep into the darkest part of the shadow.  Both knew the rock walls came together in there and were hesitant to follow.  Still, curiosity won out and, hand in hand, followed where the male went.

Both could feel pressure against their bodies as they moved forward as if a thin fabric were wrapping around them and cutting off their air before parting before them without warning.  The air smelled different, untainted by long past wars, and the colors seemed bright and normal compared to the unusually dulled landscape they had walked through.

Where they stepped out was a large meadow with knee high green grass waving in the wind.  Above, the sky was a perfect shade of blue with only a few wisps of clouds drifting lazily by and birds winging their way toward unknown destinations.  Mountains could be seen in the distance, beyond a thick forest of deep green.  Here and there, the thinnest wisp of smoke could be spotted against the softer colors of the distance.

Both were amazed by the beauty of the realm they had entered.  Both have traveled far and wide in their lives, but nowhere looked as perfect or vibrant as the scene that lay before them.  “This place is beautiful, Sirabe,” Sarri whispered in awe.

Nodding, the leopard woman agreed silently and looked around her at everything that was there.  Only for a moment did she see the brightly colored tiger they had followed, and then he was gone.  Other felines like him were close by, mingling at a small gathering of tents where scents of food and fresh meats lured both women.  “This way, My Lady,” she whispered to her companion before gently pulling her by the hand.

Staying close together, they walked through the small faire and paused to admire the goods on display.  While they window shopped, Sarri looked around at the different felines.  They were similar in that they all had wings resembling a dragon but with feathers covering the bones only, only the vast expanses of skin between were bare, but the colors matched their fur colors and patterns.  Each had long fluffy tails that were held upright behind them in a proud arch.  Some, she could see tiny scales around the bases of the wings matching their fur color perfectly, but they all wore a robe that was tied around their waists.  The robe itself was split in the back for their wings.  

Some were slender, other well muscled, some old, many were young with several she guessed were children dashing about in play.  Each of them stared at her, making her feel too self-aware and embarrassed.  Most only stared until she walked by but others kept watch, intent and judging though they never uttered a word.

As much as she wanted to stay and try to purchase some of the woven cloth and delicately made jewelry, she needed to finish her quest.  Sarri felt a strange pull, guiding her through the faire until they emerged from the other side and were looking toward the forest where it came closest to the gathering.  Not sure how she knew, she led Sirabe toward the trees and didn't know she had a few of the strange felines following her.

Once they entered the cool shadows of the forest, the black cat suddenly felt too hot and weak to continue.  Worried, Sareena stopped and helped her lover to sit on an old log lying on the ground.  “Are you okay,” the golden furred cat asked, her blue eyes filled with concern for her lover.  “You're not sick, are you?”

“No,” she breathed, trying to gulp the cool air and sooth the sudden rise of her temperature, “I'm fine.  It's... it's just our cub... I think.”  She had many litters before and each one was different, but this one felt strange somehow.

Thin brows furrowed as the young demigoddess knelt before her friend.  “Are you sure you're okay,” she asked, wanting to help her lover to feel better.

“I'm sure,” Sirabe replied, feeling annoyed with the questions.  “I just need some rest.  We've been walking a lot today without any rest.”  She paused a moment to listen to the sounds of the forest.  “Perhaps you can get me some water.  I hear a stream nearby.”

“I don't want to leave you alone,” Sarri mewled softly, unable to help herself.  If her unborn cub was in trouble, she wanted to protect it and the mother.  “Are you sure?”

Shooting the young cat a meaningful look, the leopardess nodded then sighed.  “Yes, I'll be fine.  Just go, get me the water,” she nearly commanded her goddess-to-be.

She was hesitant about leaving, but after getting a much darker look from her companion and a soft growl along with it, Sarri decided to go get the water that was requested.  It was strange that suddenly her avatar needed to rest and have something to drink.   There was little need for either of them to do more than just wait for better conditions to travel during their trek into the mountains.  Pregnant women made her confused and this one added an extra concern to her confusion.

Once Sareena was out of sight, Sirabe leaned back and let the cool air wash over her then opened her wings fully.  Her contented sigh rumbled up from her throat with a soft purr.  The shade and cooler air against the thin membranes of her wings helped to make her feel better.

Idly, she reached for a blade of grass protruding from a hollow just under the log then chewed on and let her mind drift.  Never had she seen such a clean and beautiful land such as the one she was in.  She wished her Mistress could see what she could see then reached out to feel the faint tendrils of the goddess so far away.

At first, it didn't seem strange that nothing greeted her gentle touch.  It was expected of the ancient goddess while she was weak.  When nothing responded to her searching calls, she grew worried and sat up, looking around as if the feline god would be someplace close by.  With her senses wide open, she stretched her mind to its furthest extent, but nothing could be felt.

Unable to stop the upwelling of emptiness inside of her, she cried out to the world in general.  Over and over, she shouted at the top of her lungs for the one being she had been close to her entire life; the very one who allowed her to exist and cared for her as if she were her own.  Her voice gained a frantic tone when none of her shouts, mental and audible, brought a god to her side and the empty space in her soul opened wide.

Sarri heard the screams while she was dipping the cold water into a quickly conjured bowl.  She knew the voice and the growing frantic tone sent shivers down her spine.  Dropping the bowl, she dashed back to her lover's side and found the winged cat on her knees, arms and wings spread wide and yowling for someone who could not answer.

The only one who could answer was her and she went to the black cat's side and took her hand into her own.  Even more worried, she tried to calm her friend and lover by trying to gain her attention by stroking her fingers through her head fur and pulling her close.  In her heart, Sarri knew Sirabe was missing something but until she calmed down, the answer eluded her.

The commotion gained the attention of the Kiyrie, the felines who lived in the lands they were visiting.  The first to arrive were the few small groups which followed them from the faire.  The rest came in groups to see what was causing the wild screaming.  Some turned and left when they saw the strange women while others remained to see what was causing the trouble.  Among them was SunSet, curious but untouched by the younger woman holding her older friend.

He soon left, walking by them to go deeper into the forest.  Though he covered his ears, he could still hear the shrill tone of the distraught cat until he was well out of sight of the pair and far from the stream they were nearing.  As much as he wanted to deny it, he couldn't bear to be near either of them until the wall of negative emotion was gone.  The others could linger and watch, but he had to move on.

Other Kiyrie stayed to watch while the distraught avatar wailed and called time and time again to someone who would never be able to answer her again.  They couldn't fathom the reason for her cries and many left when they became more shrill and panicked in volume.  All any of them could do was pity her and the woman trying to calm her down.

For what seemed like hours, Sirabe cried for her Mistress, seeking with wide open senses for any vestige of the familiar goddess' touch anywhere within the aether.  Only the faintest of ripples of Bast's departure remained and they were fading quickly into the memories of the universe.  There was nothing to grasp for the elder avatar and it tore her spirit knowing she could not be there when her Mistress faded away.

When at last her wails began to subside and her voice grew hoarse, she began to hear the soothing purrs of her new mistress, the very one who loved her and blessed her with a cub before achieving godhood.  As much as she wanted to leave, there was no place for her to go except into the arms of the young woman who held her close and stroked her head fur.  Leaning closer to her lover, she sobbed and buried her muzzle against the strong shoulder of her beloved Sareena.

None of the legends and stories told of the loving side of Bast and her avatars.  All the Kiyrie knew was the hatred she had for them just for existing.  Nothing prepared them for Sirabe's anguish or how loudly it would come.  Only a few, who were old and nearing their own deaths could sympathize with the avatar but showed no outward emotion.  They were the first ones to leave her be.

One by one, after the avatar's voice grew too hoarse to cry, did the others start to leave.  All Sirabe wanted was to be left alone and Sareena didn't want a spectacle for them to see.   By the time the last curious by stander left, the sun was setting, leaving a blazing array of colors in the sky as shadows stretched across the plain to the forest.  In the darkening forest, the sobs faded and the heaving body became still.  Only the soft purrs and soothing voices could be heard against the chirping of crickets and the distant trickle of water as it flowed over rocks and through tall grasses.

“My poor, poor, Sirabe,” cooed Sarri while she rocked her lover, “my beautiful, loving, Sirabe, I'm here for you.  I'll never leave you, my love.”

Sniffling, the elder cat lifted her tear filled eyes to look at her lover, nodded then sat up, trying to regain some of her dignity in her partner's eyes.  “I know, My Lady,” she whispered, “you are all I have, now.  You are all that is left for we avatars.”

Glad that her companion was feeling better, but still very concerned for her well being, Sarri leaned closer, propping herself on one hand and asked, “What do you mean?”

Only a shake of the head answered the young feline before her voice could be found again.  “It is the Mistress,” the black cat started, catching her breath before another sob could interrupt, “She... she is gone... forever.”

With an ear flicking back, Sarri sat up and stared hard at her lover in disbelief.  “Gone?  How?  Why?  Bast can't leave.  I've not finished my quest, yet.  She was supposed to stay until I finished.”

Once again, Sirabe shook her head and sighed.  “She couldn't.  We didn't finish in time for her to see it.”

“Do not fear,” a whispered voice echoed within their ears, “there is still time to complete this test before all is lost.  The world fades without the blood of the goddess in the throne.  Soon, even this paradise will be desolate and dead without the goddess.”

Both felines looked around for the source of the voice, but they were gone.  Only the tendrils of memory were left behind after Fate's brief visit ended.  The breeze seemed to pick up the message and whirled it around the women before letting them sink in to be pondered.

“What does that mean, Sirabe,” Sarri asked of her companion, “The world can't fade.  Can it?”

Sighing, the black nodded then looked away from her lover.  “Yes, it can.  This world was created by Bast long ago.  It is connected to her and has grown with her through the ages. Without her, there is nothing to sustain the energy which courses through everything and the spirit of the earth will eventually die.  It is only a matter of days, now.  

Peering hard at her in the waning light, the golden furred cat asked, “How do you know this?  Why didn't you tell me before?”

“The Mistress had told me before I left to retrieve you that there was little time and when she left, there would be even less to accomplish your task,” the avatar said softly.  “I did try to tell you many times, but I wasn't allowed to say why exactly.  Now... I am released from that promise and bound to you.”

Sareena shook her head then stood and paced in front of the black cat.  “You should have said something, Sirabe.  I wouldn't have stopped so often and we could be finishing up this stupid quest by now.”

Watching her, Sirabe felt as though she were to blame and the stern words of her mistress felt like physical blows.  “That is in the past, now, My Lady.  We have to find this mysterious being so you can ascend and keep this world alive.  You can't find them if you aren't open.”

“Open to what,” a soft voice drawled.  The shadows were dark and the sun's light hadn't fully faded, leaving little to see by amid the branches and game paths.  “If you're trying to find someone, or something, I may be able to help.”

Surprised, both felines paused and looked toward the source of the voice.  All either could see was a silhouette of one of the Kiyrie standing several feet away from them.  Very little light was cast on the feathered wing bones or the robe the Kiyrie wore, but it reflected a bright green in her eyes as if they were jewels set within a mask of darkness.

“Oh,” gasped Sarri, “nothing.  We won't need any help.”  She was honest and offered a smile though it probably wasn't seen with her back to the setting sun.  “We were just talking is all.”

Looking to her companion, the black cat nodded then turned her attention back to the stranger in their midst.  “We won't be very long within these lands,” she mentioned and tried to sound calm.

A little disappointed, the feline nodded.  “Oh, okay,” then brightened up, “Then let me invite you to my home.  It can get pretty cold out here at night this time of the year.  If you're hungry, I also have some food left over from the evening meal.  It isn't much but...” then she trailed off, realizing she was starting to ramble and the two didn't seem too inclined to come with her.  “I apologize,” she then whispered softly, “I tend to get a little excited around others.”

Amused, Sareena wrinkled her nose and smiled at the apology.  Although she wasn't hungry, something to eat sounded good and she was going to need energy to finish her quest.  “No need to apologize... miss...” started Sarri while she looked at the winged cat.

Sirabe remained quiet, letting her mistress take the lead this time.  She needed to search unhindered and they were in the right place to find their special person.  Seeing Sareena's grin, the black cat added hers and kept it brief, waiting to see what would happen next.

Happy again, the feline bounced in place and clapped her hands then turned and beckoned the pair to follow.  “Come with me.  I don't live far from here.  Just across the stream.”  She giggled and skipped ahead before realizing something.  “Oh!  I should provide some light.  There are lots of roots and stones along the path.”  Without waiting, she produced a glowing orb that gave off a bright, white, light above her extended hand.

Both cats laughed at the exuberance of their host and started to follow.  Just as one was about to mention something about needing some light, the orb blazed into existence and dazzled their eyes with its brilliance for several seconds.  Their gasps were all that was needed for the Kiyrie to turn the light down a bit so they could see through the glare.

“Sorry about that,” she giggled and waited patiently for the two felines to regain their vision.

“Not a problem,” the avatar said first while holding up a hand to block the worst of the light from her eyes.  As the light dimmed, she peered around her fingers to see who it was that was aiding them.

What they saw was a young woman standing there in a light green robe.  Her hair was long and dark, shining in waves that wrapped around her triangular ears and tumbled over slender shoulders.  Gray fur, that appeared to be blue, covered most of her face.  White filled in the rest, starting at a point just between her violet colored eyes and dividing the bridge of her nose in half before spreading out to cover her muzzle and chin.  The white flowed downward over the front of her neck then spreading out before disappearing behind the robe.  Her small hands each had white fingers and blue-gray fur with dark nails gilding the tip of each.  At her lower legs, where the robe ended, the blue-gray fur returned to cover all but her toes and they were as white as snow.  Even though shadows played across her wings, they were mostly gray with streaks of a vibrant blue along the edges and tipping the feathers.  Then, as she turned to lead them to her home, they saw the long hairs of her tail drifting in the calm night air and bouncing with her steps, each one tipped in blue with the rest the blue-gray of her natural fur.

Her robed draped easily over her figure, hiding the small bust, but with the belt accepting the trim waist.  They could only guess at how muscled her upper legs were, but she had the gait of an athlete.  She wasn't a beautiful Kiyrie, but she was definitely pretty.

Awed by what she saw and taken in by the violet eyes, Sarri moved closer to look her over and smell her scent.  “Excuse me,” she said gently, “but... we didn't get your name.  I'm Sareena and this is my mate, Sirabe.  What are you called?”

Not one to be taken in by looks, Sirabe felt drawn in by the Kiyrie.  She was unique to her and though she looked quite beautiful to her ancient eyes.  Smiling, she kept close to her mistress, blushing when she was referred to as Sarrie's mate.

Giggling, the Kiyrie answered, “Oh, I'm called SkyDrifter,” then glanced at the pair.  The blush on the older cat's ears was noticed, making her giggle even more.  Then, looking at the younger woman, seeing those deep blue eyes so full of life and curiosity, she paused, losing herself for a moment.  Finding her tongue again, she dipped her head and rubbed the back of her head, “That's what I'm called.”

Sarri smiled more and fluttered her lashes when her new friend seemed to turn shy all of a sudden.  “That's a nice name, SkyDrifter.  May I ask how you got it?”  When their eyes met, she looked deep into them, finding a different world hidden within the violet depths and something inside which made her breath catch in her throat.

“Oh, uh... I'm not sure,” the Kiyrie said shyly.  “When I became an adult that is what the elders named me.”

“I'll tell you how she got her name,” a very masculine voice said from the doorway they were approaching.  “It's because she loves to glide when the warm air rises.  So, they call her SkyDrifter.”  He wasn't exactly grinning at the pair approaching with his sister but he couldn't stop her; it was her home.

With a bright smile, SkyDrifter bounded forward to hug her brother.  “SunSet!  You're still here,” she said excitedly while giving him a good squeeze.  “I thought you left after I went to find our visitors.”

“Sorry sis,” he muttered and looked away, “but I didn't.  Someone has to protect you from these outsiders.  You've met them, now they can go.”

SkyDrifter gave her brother a confused look while her guests tried to ignore their conversation.  “You're not being nice, SunSet.  Honestly, you should know if they are dangerous or not by now.”  Then, as she shook her head, she moved past her brother and beckoned her guests into her dwelling.

Feeling a little embarrassed, Sarri and Sirabe entered and gave the male Kiyrie a bow of their heads in respect before looking around the simple home.

The room they entered wasn't very large with only a few benches in a half circle in front of the fireplace.  Each bench had worn cushions on them.  Directly in front of the fireplace was a bowl shaped hollow filled with pillows and thick blankets for the comfort of any who wanted to curl up in there and looked large enough for several people.  What light there was came from flickering candles nestled into niches in the walls and along the mantle; giving the room a pleasant, smoky, scent.

“Make yourself comfortable,” the younger Kiyrie said as she continued on through to another room through an open archway.  

The fainter scent of food made both feline's stomach rumble audible, which broke the general tension in the room.  Both Sareena and Sirabe chuckled while they settled themselves onto a bench together.  Even SunSet had to hold back a soft chortle to retain his dour demeanor.

“My, what a cozy home,” Sarri mentioned while her lover leaned against her side.  

Sirabe wasn't feeling well, more weak than she had before.  She simply nodded and let her eyes close while her companion did the talking.  Gently, she rested a hand on her stomach and tried to keep herself calm and relaxed.

A large platter with the remains of a roasted animal was in the hands of their hostess when Sky returned to the main room.  Her bright smile faded when she noticed Sirabe looking unwell and resting against the beautiful cat.  “Is everything all right,” she asked innocently as she tugged a bench over with a foot then set the platter on it for the two women.

Looking at her lover, Sarri shrugged.  “I don't know for sure, but I think she'll be fine.  Neither of us has eaten in a while, so she probably needs some food.”  A smile showing her gratitude covered her muzzle when the food was brought close.  Rather than feeding herself, first, she offered the first and choicest pieces to her lover.

Watching Sarri feed the other; Sky thought for a moment then removed her robe.  The fact she was naked in front of strangers didn't seem to unusual to her.  “Here, drape this over her shoulders.  It'll help keep her warm,” she purred softly then turned to add some more wood to the fire.

What both saw when their host disrobed neither expected.  SkyDrifter was much like Sareena in that she possessed a very male part similar to Sarrie's.  They watched, wide-eyed, as it twitched against her softly furred groin before it was taken out of view.   But, seeing her fully unclothed, made Sarri gasp.  Though her figure was slight, almost boyish, it looked perfectly beautiful to her.  The feeling she felt coursing through her centered in her groin, bringing to life her member until it pushed the torn dress away from it.  She was so taken by their host's body, the erection was ignored.

Sirabe was grateful for the robe and nestled into the warm cloth as it rested against her leathery wings and furred body.  Seeing Sky nude didn't mean much to her until she noticed the tip of her lover's shaft standing proudly from her groin.  Then, she began to see it; Sareena was attracted to the Kiyrie herm.  In her heart, she could feel the first pangs of jealousy rising.

Even SunSet couldn't deny what he was witnessing.  He saw when his sister met the golden cat's eyes and her acceptance of both into her lair.  Now, he could see that this stranger was something more.  Spotting a change in the darker furred cat's eyes, he felt sudden rise of fear for his sister.  Danger now lurked too close and he knew he couldn't defeat this feline if he wanted.

Slowly, he moved closer to his now naked sister, putting himself between her and the avatar watching her far too intently.  As much as he tried to look casual, it didn't quite succeed in the eyes of the visitors.  If anything, he got into his sibling's way while she tried to warm up the room.

“Calm down, brother,” Sky whispered as the last stick was tossed into flames.  “They won't hurt me.  I promised they won't.”  She could feel the very different emotions coming from the pair.  One echoed her own, a rhythm she couldn't put her finger on but it made her own heart race.  The same feelings were warring inside of her, unknown and unsure as to what was happening.  Then, the strange form of anger welling up within the other, it made her shiver, but she felt confident that she had nothing to fear from that one.

“I know,” he replied while watching Sirabe intently, “but I feel the same thing you do.  The black one doesn't like you.”

“Then I will just have to win her over,” came the gentle reply before she slowly turned around.  “Her name is Sirabe, brother.  Please, do be nice to them.”

Sareena more felt than heard the whispered conversation.  She felt protective of her new mate and unborn kit, but she also wanted to protect the creature she found.  It was an inner struggle she didn't want to have but found herself trying to find an answer without knowing the question.

In spite of the growing tension between them, the avatar ate what was offered to her.  She felt weak and insecure and though the food was helping, she just couldn't find the strength to do more than stare at the hostess and her brother.  “My Lady,” she whispered when Sarri bent her head closer to nuzzle at her cheek, “I think we should leave.  There's something about these two I don't like.”

Surprised, she peered at her lover then shook her head, “No, we have to stay, Sirabe,” Sarri replied softly, “We're in unfamiliar territory and it's dark outside.”  Then, turning her gaze back to their hostess and her brother, she smiled wistfully and sighed, “I think I found the one, my love.  She's so beautiful and perfect.  There's nothing marring her body and her mind is so innocent and pure, she's confused by us.”  Without taking her eyes from the young Kiyrie, she then asked, “What do you sense from her spirit and soul?”

Black ears lay back while she buried her muzzle against her lover's shoulder.  “She isn't the one, neither is her brother,” she lied, the feeling making her heart drop and her blood turn cold for a second or two.  Never had she told a lie like this before.

Saddened, Sarrie's smile faded but she couldn't tear her eyes away from SkyDrifter.  “Oh, okay then,” she whispered.  She promised herself she would find the one she needed then come back for this lovely Kiyrie.  With all her being, she wanted her and just be with her always to fill that ache deep within her soul.  Just being in the same room made her feel complete inside.

Sirabe froze when her lie was accepted then shuddered.  Her new mistress was too distracted to notice the untruth and her heart fell.  If she didn't feel so weak or had a cub to worry about, she'd leave.  Just considering the thought tore her heart to shreds and brought tears to her eyes.  Even though she wasn't there any longer, she could feel the shame of her former mistress across the voids of time and space.

Noticing something strange about Sirabe and the odd emotions coming off of her, Sky moved closer and frowned.  She knelt beside Sarrie's knees, an arm resting across them casually while she tried to look the avatar over.  “Is there something wrong?  Your mate doesn't look so good, Sareena,” she inquired, concerned for the older feline.

Sighing, Sarri shook her head.  “Yes, and no, SkyDrifter,” she said with a purr, quivering because now this young feline was touching her and she could feel how pure she really was.  This one had never been touched by a male or been with a female and her mind felt so clean and fresh, without the chaos of dark thoughts.  “Her original mistress is gone, passed away in a sense and... she's pregnant.  It could be the different magics causing the trouble with the babe.  You see, Sirabe is immortal and I'm mortal.”

Even SunSet was taken aback by the announcement.  He wasn't there when Sarri told her mate the news.  All he knew was there were two females coming to his homeland and he needed to slow them down.  “I don't see how magic could cause problems with cubs.  Furs all over interbreed with others, even the furless ones mate with furs and there have been no problems before.”

“True,” Sarri said as she looked at the brightly colored cat, “but my mate is an avatar to a god.  She's not a normal immortal.  She's part of a god.”  Her gaze returned to the black cat rubbing her face against her shoulder then held her close.  “She changed herself for me and that magic could be what is making her ill.”

“Strange,” commented Sky while she observed Sirabe then gasped at the dark look she received before anyone else could see it.  Then, as she turned to regard Sareena, she spotted the very erect shaft protruding through a tear in the dress.  “Oh... oh my...” she whispered, feeling a strange pull from within.

Even though she saw nothing but concern and innocence in those violet eyes, Sirabe couldn't let herself accept the Kiyrie.  She wanted her new mistress for herself.  Keeping the lie was making her shiver and her body grow cold even though the loving warmth of her mate's arms was there and the feathers of her wings brushing against the fabric of the Kiyrie robe on her shoulders.  “I... I need to go outside,” she said suddenly, feeling panic and the need to be in the open.

As she tried to stand, the black feline stumbled, her legs unable to hold herself up.  Two sets of arms caught her, Sarri and SkyDrifter.  Both held on to her and as they looked into each other’s eyes again, they felt a connection that went deeper than the physical.  They sensed one another's thoughts and racing pulse of each other before the weight of the avatar was felt in their arms.

Together, they helped carry the avatar outside and gently sat her on one of the stones close to the door.  Sirabe gulped the air, shuddering as it set fire to her veins and started a knot in her belly.  She didn't know what was happening, but it was happening quickly and frightening her.

Still holding her close, Sareena nuzzled at her mate's ears and purred soothingly to her.  “What's wrong, my love?  Tell me, please, I'm worried for you and our baby,” she purred while resting a hand on her lover's stomach.  She could sense the fetus though weakly.  It was starting to fade and she didn't know why.

Sky could only stand by and watch.  She wanted the avatar to live and be healthy.  All she could think of to do was to sit in front of the black cat and reach up to cup her cheeks in her tiny hands.  “Look at me, Sirabe.  Let me help you.”

Feeling the touch of the Kiyrie on her cheeks, the avatar flinched and abruptly stood up; knocking over the Kiyrie herm easily.  “No!” she exclaimed then dashed off into the woods.  “Do not touch me!”  As weak as she felt, she forced herself to run and put distance between herself and SkyDrifter and Sareena.

“Sirabe, wait,” Sarri called after her mate, taking only a few steps before stopping.  It was too dark for her to see and she could easily become lost or hurt without any light or a guide.  It wouldn't do her much good, the avatar had magics she didn't possess and the feline was already out of her range before she could take a third step.

As she fell to her knees, Sareena covered her face and heaved a heavy sigh.  “She shouldn't have run,” she whispered.  “She's not got the strength right now and... I can feel her magic leaving.”

Concerned, Sky knelt beside her and wrapped an arm and a wing around the upset demigoddess.  While she nuzzled her shoulder, she purr-sighed softly, “I'm sorry if I had upset her in anyway.  Whatever I did to anger your mate, it wasn't intentional.”

Shaking her head, Sarri sniffled then looked at the innocent cat beside her.  “No, it wasn't your fault.  Don't ever think this was your fault.  If anything, it's my fault, for not finding the rarest person in time.”

Still holding her, the young kiyrie asked, “Why must you find this person?  What is so important about them?”

Sniffling, the demigoddess wiped her eyes with the backs of hands then looked up at the stars through the branches.  “I have to find this special person so I can ascend.  The great goddess, my sire, is gone; she's no longer on our plane of existence.  Without her here, our world will die.  It will continue to die until I can take her place.  Already the colors are fading beyond this realm and my cub... my first cub, is starting to fade in Sirabe's womb.  As she grows weaker, so does our daughter.”

Seeing anyone upset always made SkyDrifter want to make them happy again.  She couldn't bear to let anyone be sad or angry in her presence.  But, knowing that the one her heart had chosen was upset and that the world as she knew was ending, she couldn't sit idly by.  “I'll help you find this person and your mate.  I promise, I'll do everything I can so you can succeed.”

“You... you'd do that,” Sarri asked, amazed a stranger would want to help her so blindly.  “You don't even know me and you're willing to risk your life to help?”

With a nod, Sky smiled and looked her in the eyes.  “Yes, I would,” she said with all the conviction in her heart, “because I want to and because... I want to see you happy again.  Don't cry.  Please?”

Because of the pleading tone in her voice and the hopeful smile the Kiyrie had mustered, Sarri found herself smiling at her and melting into those eyes.  “You are a special person, SkyDrifter.  No stranger has ever been so kind and giving to me, ever.”

Annoyed, SunSet growled under his breath then pushed away from the door frame where he had been watching everything.  “SkyDrifter,” he growled, “I'm not letting you go running around in the dark.  It's too dangerous for you.  I'll go find Sirabe for you.  At least I stand a chance of tracking her.”

He didn't wait for either to answer and took off with a few strong down beats of his great wings.  The rush of air blew their hair back, making them break eye contact.  In the wake of his departure, they blushed then watched him leave through the opening in the trees above the house.

“Your brother doesn't care for me, or Sirabe, does he,” asked Sarri wryly while she watched the sky where he left.  An answer wasn’t expected though she let her eyes drift back to where the colorful feline had gone.

“Sadly, you are correct,” said Sky rather softly.  “He doesn't like outsiders very much and people of the others always confuse him, even if he is fascinated by them.  But, I am afraid he is only echoing the fears of our people, Sareena.  They are all shouting at us to make you leave.”

Curious, Sarri tilted her head and looked at her young friend.  “You are communicating with the rest of your people?  How?  Better yet, how do you find privacy from them?”

With a grin, Sky stood and offered her hand to the stunning demigoddess.  “Yes, I am.  All our people share a mental link with each other.  If we want privacy, we only need to close our thoughts to the rest.  It is our strongest advantage against the hyunnitarri.”

After accepting the hand up, Sarri nodded then thought while walking with her hostess into the house.  Rather than taking a seat on one of the benches, she settled into the hollow and relaxed amid the pillows and blankets.  Beside her, SkyDrifter did the same and kept glancing at her erection as it softened.

“You know,” she mentioned, “there are no more hyunnitarri, SkyDrifter.  My sire stopped creating them well before my birth.  The ones who are left are old and weak.”

Sky blinked and nodded, listening to the lilting voice of her guest and marveling at her beauty.  “My people no longer have anything to worry about, now?  They will be so happy to hear this.  This does explain why we have not seen or heard of any new attacks in a few generations.”  She sounded excited and wriggled with joy as she mentally relayed the information.  Before any kind of backlash could happen, she closed off her mind to enjoy this time alone with her new guest.  Curious, she reached to touch the long shaft lying against the demigoddess' thigh and asked, “May I ask about... this...?”

Looking at what she was touching, Sarri blushed and felt her member twitch from the gentle touch, feeling that urge renew itself again.  “Well, that... is like yours.  I was born this way.  The goddess Bast used magic on herself so she could be male long enough to impregnate my mother.”

Laying on her side and unable to stop touching the renewed erection, Sky marveled at the sight then looked at her own responding to the strong feelings boiling in her belly.  “I see.  My mother told me that a stranger visited her while she was exploring the world beyond our lands and they fell in love.  My brother and I are the children of that mating, but I am the only one who is like our father with both genders.”

“People like us are called herms,” Sarri said gently then raised a brow.  “She mated with a herm?  I'm surprised.  Not many will for some reason, but there are no taboos.”  After a moment, she asked, “Are your parents still alive?”

Sky shook her head, her eyes looking down for a moment before meeting her gaze again.  “No.  I never knew my sire, he was gone before I was born and mother never spoke of what happened,” said the suddenly sad feline, “Mother died a few years ago during an earth shake.  The building she was in collapsed and she couldn't escape.”

“I'm sorry to hear,” whispered Sarri while she nuzzled at one of Sky's ears.  She was having a hard time concentrating on the conversation with those delicate fingers stroking her now very hard shaft.  If something wasn't done soon, she'd be in more trouble.  “Careful with what you are doing.  I cannot be held responsible for what I may do while aroused.”

Warning issued, however gently, Sky nodded and stopped stroking the turgid length of flesh standing so rigid and proud from her guest's groin.  Her own was making her uncomfortable as it pressed against the demigoddess' thigh.   “I... I'm sorry.  I won't touch it again,” she murmured then scooted over so she wasn't touching.

Finally, Sarri saw the impressive erection Sky had and how uncomfortable it was making her.   “It's okay if you want to keep touching but... the urge to mate is very strong.  I...” she blushed and looked away.  “I don't want you to stop.  I don't want anything to ruin you for anyone else.”

Confused but feeling like she should be so close, making herself one with this beautiful, strange, woman in her home, the Kiyrie smiled then moved back, this time straddling Sarrie's body so that their members were touching tip to tip.  “I have never before felt this strange with another person, Sareena.  I've never felt my organ swell until you came and now... it looks so much like yours.”  Gently, she leaned in to nuzzle at her cheek then purred throatily, “You smell so wonderful.”

Her heart beat faster as Sky stood over her on hands and knees.  Just the touch of her tip to hers sent shocks through her body that she never felt before.  The urge was strong, stronger than she could ever control.  “So do you, SkyDrifter.  So do you,” she purred back, daring to touch the small breasts before sliding her hands down to her trim waist.  “Your heart is so pure and loving, and your body reflects this.  Your mind... as innocent as is your spirit.  I...”  Though she knew in her soul she found the most pure person, she couldn't stop herself from wanting to be with this willing creature.

“What,” Sky asked softly, watching Sareena and finding herself enjoying the touch of her hands on her small breasts and on her side, the sensation sending a surge through her being, rocking her to the core.  Everywhere the demigoddess touched felt like fire against her skin.  Slowly, she lowered her hips, wings opening to balance herself as she decided to feel what it felt like to mate for the first time.

Smiling, her eyes encouraging and her hands helping to guide, Sarri watched as that large member was lowered and trailing against her fur to the apex of her mound.  Soft gasps escaped her parted lips as she eagerly waited for the moment when this new lover would find her depths and join with her.  

Closing her eyes, SkyDrifter let instinct guide her as she let her tip drag through soft fur until she could feel the woman's mound and where it split.  Pressing lightly, she felt the fur part, letting her in to feel the outer folds of the woman's body open and become damp with arousal.  With just the very tip of her erection touching, the Kiyrie opened her eyes and smiled at her chosen before pressing herself into those warm, inviting, depths.

Before either could get much further, the door burst open.  SunSet stood there, holding an unconscious Sirabe in his arms.  He saw what they were about to do and decided to put a stop to it before anything could happen.  “SkyDrifter!” he shouted as he rushed over with the avatar in his arms, “Stop!  Don't do it!  You don't know what you are doing!”

Startled, both women looked up at the male as he stood over them, his eyes wide with worry.  He was all that was needed to kill the mood and Sarri could feel her shaft shrivel up.  But, seeing her mate in his arms distracted her from the dark thoughts which sprang to mind and wriggled to get up and take care of her beloved avatar.  “Where did you find her,” she asked, concerned and rushed at the same time.

Feeling much the same way, Sky scowled at her brother then turned her attention to the black feline in his arms.  Though she harbored no ill feelings, she felt empty and incomplete without Sarri.   Willing to do anything to feel the woman again, she did what she could to help and gently touched the avatar to see if she were still alive.

If anything, SunSet felt relieved that his sister didn't go any farther than what she did just then.  He didn't want to see her lose her innocence so soon, even though she was an adult by their standards and others.  He simply didn't want to lose his sister to the urges of mating.  Nor did he want to lose his sister to a demigod who’s blood was that of the goddess who tried to bring an end to their people.

Together, the women settled Sirabe into the hollow and covered her in the blankets before Sky went to get some water.  While she was away, Sarri stroked her mate's cheeks and tried to awaken her.  “Sirabe, my dear, beautiful Sirabe, wake up.  You have to wake up.  We need to leave soon.  I want you to wake up, my love.  Please, wake up.”  Her voice grew more and more insistent as she spoke, trying make the black cat respond to her voice and her touch.

At first, it seemed as though the avatar was too far gone, but as Sarri became more and insistent and focused her will on the weakened cat, Sirabe opened her eyes. They appeared dull and lifeless, as if she were nearing her last breath on this earth.  Slowly, she began to focus on the worry filled voice of her lover and mistress and took strength from it.  Feeling her gentle touch on her cheeks and her body against her own, she felt uplifted, as if any transgression she had done had never happened.  Life started to surge within her again, but she was so very weak, so very, very, weak.

“Forgive me,” the old avatar said with a faint voice, barely a whisper in her lover's ear.  “Do not be angry with me, My Lady.”

“Why would I be angry with you,” Sarri asked, happy to see her beloved awakening.  “You've done nothing wrong.  Nothing at all that I'm aware of.”  Tears were in her eyes, sensing that the spirit of her companion was preparing to leave the body it inhabited.

“Please,” the old cat begged, her voice ragged with her waning energy and hoarse from the effort it took to utter those few words, “let me speak.” She waited until her mate nodded then spoke again.  “I deceived you, My Lady.  I tried to make you believe that we are not near your goal.”

“Deceived me?”  Sareena sounded incredulous, but was willing to listen.  “How could you? Why would you want to deceive me?  I thought we were bonded as Mistress and avatar, lovers and mates.”  Though she sounded upset, she simply wanted to know why.

Looking away from her beautiful mate, Sirabe closed her eyes and took a deep breath.  “Because…” she paused, “I am jealous.  We have found what you were looking for but... I can see that the two of you are supposed to be together.”  Once again, she paused, this time to gather her strength and consider her words carefully.  “Without the Mistress, I no longer have the strength to continue.  I love you, Sareena and... I don't want to lose you so soon.  I love you like I have never loved anyone before.”

A soft smile curled across Sarri’s muzzle, bringing a soft light to her worried eyes.  “Sirabe, I love you, too.  I forgive this lie and any others, but you shouldn't have hindered our quest.  Without SkyDrifter, I cannot ascend.  You know this.  Accept her as part of our family.  There is more than plenty of love to go around.  I promise, there is more than plenty of room in my heart to care for you, her, and the children we’ll have together.”

“Then... do what you must,” the old cat urged.  “I saw this realm fading while I was flying over the forest.  Darkness was taking over the sky, taking away the stars and the clouds above.  Even the night time breezes have ceased their dances within the leaves and grasses of this beautiful world.”  Closing her eyes, the old cat relaxed though her breathing was shallow with the strain of trying to keep awake and vibrant in the dimming world.  Without opening her eyes again, the avatar whispered hoarsely, “Time is moving too quickly for you to waste another moment.  Go, Sareena and take your place.”

SkyDrifter heard it all while she stood there with a pitcher of water from the well.  She felt a heavy weight on her heart when she heard those soft words and the emotion behind them.  How could she expect to have that same feeling from a woman who was already promised?  Before their conversation could end, she was gone, soaring across the night forest on silent wings.

Looking about, Sarri sat up.  The Kiyrie wasn't there, only her brother who was standing in the doorway looking up at the sky.  He saw the same thing Sirabe did when he brought her back and felt a chill run along his spine.  Fear was starting to grip his heart as the silence grew more ominous and threatening.

The demigoddess then went in search of SkyDrifter, peering into each room before asking the brother.  “Where did SkyDrifter go?”  She couldn’t sense the young woman anywhere, nor could she feel Sky’s presence close to the dwelling.

He looked at her, shrugged then turned his attention back to the sky.  “I don't know.  She was here while you and your mate were talking.”  He eyed the golden feline, a brow lifting cautiously over one eye before he turned his attention back to the encroaching darkness.  “I think its best you don’t try to find her.  You’ve done enough to disrupt our lives already.”

Rolling her eyes, the young goddess-to-be sighed then shook her head.  As she placed a hand on the male’s shoulder, the spoke to him, her voice soft and filled with understanding.  “I don’t blame you for not liking me, or my mate, but you cannot stop what the Fates and placed before us.  It is well past time for you to stop being so protective of your sister.”  Then, offering him a gentle smile, she purred, “She has to decide for herself what she wants, now.  SkyDrifter is a young woman.  She is more than just a woman to me.  She’s…”  Words failed her in that moment, but the emotion in her voice still could be felt.

SunSet peered at her, his eyes opening for the first time to see that Sarri did not mean him, or anyone any harm.  He could see that her heart was filled with nothing but caring for everything around her, including him.  Still, he couldn’t help but to feel protective when it came to his younger sibling.  “I know,” he finally uttered with a low growl, “but she is my sister and I know what the world outside will do when they see that she is..”

“… A herm,” inquired the feline while she stuck out her chin stubbornly and narrowed her gaze.  “Trust me; I know full well how most people react when they see a hermaphrodite.  I’m one also, and not even my sire’s temples could protect me from the viciousness the fearful possess.  But that didn’t stop me from caring about them any less.”

Eyeing her, the tiger-like cat leaned back, seeing, as well as sensing, just how determined she was.  “You don’t understand,” he started, and then flicked his gaze downward at the twitching tip of her member peeking through the tear in her dress.  “She isn’t like you, or anyone else.”  He couldn’t help but to stare at the tapered before for several seconds before tearing his eyes away to find something more interesting on the walls behind the golden furred cat.

Exasperated, Sarri sighed then pushed past the male to the courtyard.  “It’s you who doesn’t understand,” she muttered while she strode out into the open yard.  She glanced back at him, rolled her eyes again, and then took off, her feathery wings beating hard at the air to take her above the trees.  Above the canopy, she saw what Sirabe saw, the stars were disappearing and the shadows were darkening, delving everything into a deep shadow the moon could not penetrate.  Over the sound of her wings pushing the air beneath her, she could hear the gasping sigh of the planet as it tried to hold on to life.

Catching a thermal, the demigoddess raised high above the forest, searching with her senses and her eyes for the one Kiyrie she needed.  She wanted her more than anything and her heart skipped a beat just thinking about losing her and her first mate.  With the encroaching darkness, she searched more with her heart than with her eyes or her weakening senses.

If only they could have made love before SunSet and Sirabe returned, she thought to herself.  Maybe things wouldn't be looking so dark and desolate if they just had a few more minutes alone.  Never had she met someone like SkyDrifter, someone so sweet and gentle or so innocent about the world.  Just thinking about her made her feel warm inside and her loins ache to be with her once again.  A single thought of the Kiyrie sent her blood to boiling in a way she never felt before.

Distracted with her own thoughts, she didn't notice the flock of small winged dragons heading toward her.  Their frantic cries sounded like shrill bird calls in their panicked state.  Crying out in terror, the demigoddess raised her arms to protect her face and, in the process, forgot to hover.  She felt their bodies’ crash into her and their talons dig deep into her flesh in their frantic rush to escape the inevitable.

Without the motion of her wings or a touch of magic, she plummeted like a stone toward the ground.  She screamed as she spiraled out of control and watched the ground rush up to meet her.   There was no hope of regaining control to make a softer landing, nor was she able to keep the terror of falling from taking over.  All she could do was brace herself and send out a silent farewell just before she hit the earth.

At the last moment, everything went black.

In the nothingness that followed, Sareena felt the death cries of the earth spirit as she mourned the loss of her children, the demigoddess, and everything that touched her surface.  It was cold and lonely, nothing except for her drifting within the veil between the world of the living and the dead.  Distantly, the shrill cries of lives ending echoed across the void to ring within her drooping ears.

“Open your eyes, child,” a soft maternal voice echoed in her ears.  “Open your eyes and look upon your new world.  There is nothing to fear, now.”

Her body felt numb as she slowly spun around to find the voice.  Frantic, she reached out, feeling nothing except a soft fire someplace outside of her consciousness.  The cries grew louder, closer, as she felt something new welling up within her soul.  A touch, as soft as the down of her feathers, brushed against her cheek, brought a smile to her lips.

From all around her, the sensation of a new power filled her, tugging at her spirit and changing her, somehow, though nothing at all seemed different.  Like a flood, new sensations reached her, filling the spaces in her heart, mind, and soul, save for two large voices.  They still held a vibrancy of two special people she had found on her own.  Feeling a sense of approval, Sarri did as the voice told her and started to open her eyes, feeling stronger and lighter with the resurgence of her life. 

Doing as she was told, Sarri opened her eyes and looked up into SkyDrifter's worried face.  The night sky had returned with the stars twinkling brightly as if in celebration of their renewed life.  The scents of the world around her seemed more alive and rich as was the softer, musky scent of the very being which held her.  To her, the Kyrie seemed to have a aura of her own that shone brightly and rippled with the sudden joy that filled her being.

“SkyDrifter…” she said weakly, surprised that she sounded so quiet, “What happened?  Where are we?”  Though she felt find, her limbs felt heavy and a dull ache filled her head.

Surprised that the woman she held was still alive, Sky almost stopped in mid flight.  Knowing she was alive, she held her close and tight, her tears dampening the golden hair while she sobbed uncontrollably.  “You... you crashed and... I saw it happen but... but you... you were dead.”

Sarri about lost her breath with how tight she was being held, but her heart did somersaults of pure joy in her chest and her body glowed brightly as her strength started to return.  “It’s okay,” she said soothingly, “but you better land before we fall.”  Then, it hit her.  “I was dead?”

Smiling through her tears, the Kiyrie nodded then circled lazily to the ground, holding her new lover tight for several long moments until she could stop crying.  “We're almost to the forest, Sareena.  I... I was taking you back to your mate so she could take care of your burial.”  Nodding again, she continued.  “Yes.  Those firewings must have run into you when they were trying to escape the darkness that was closing in around us.  You fell, but hit the ground before I could catch you.  .  It… it looked like the firewings had torn you up pretty badly, too.  There was no sign of life when I reached you.  I'm so sorry!”

Softly, Sareena shushed her and held her in her arms and rocked.  “No, don't apologize.  You didn't know what was to happen.  Neither did I.”  Then, leaning back slightly, she cupped her cheeks in her hands and smiled lovingly, “Everything is fine now.  You helped me to ascend.  Sirabe will be able to grow strong again and our child will thrive.”

As happy as she was for her, Sky felt her heart sink again.  Sareena was going to leave her.  Or, so she thought.  As she looked away, she whispered, “You'll be leaving, then?” She wanted only to have one moment with the new goddess to remember her by.  The very thought of being separated from her made her shudder and grow cold.

“Yes,” Sarri admitted softly though not oblivious to how saddened the Kiyrie was.  “But not without you.  You're not like the others of your kind.  They'll never love you like I do right now.  Come with me and become my mate with Sirabe.”  Her voice rang with truth and her eyes never left the Kiyrie’s tear filled gaze.  “My life would not be complete without you beside me.”

Lifting her eyes to look upon the glowing visage of the new goddess, she saw into the depths of her eyes and felt in the deepest core of her being that she truly belonged with the beautiful woman.  “You still want me,” she asked, surprised and overtaken with the love she felt blossoming in the depths of her heart and soul.

Nodding, the goddess smiled then placed a kiss on her lips before pulling her closer.  The torn clothing melted away from her body, leaving her just as naked as the Kiyrie woman she held.  Gently, she guided her down into the grass without breaking the kiss they shared.

No longer rushed, she let her hands explore the Kiyrie's body.  Both felt the same urge and wanted to give in those feelings they shared for one another.  Returning to what they had started earlier, Sarri kneaded her new partner's small breasts, savoring their size and shape before letting her fingers drift toward the hard length standing so proudly above her mound.

As she stroked the young feline's length, she heard the soft moans of her growing arousal.  From base to tip, she memorized the feel of her very feline length, down to the rough texture of the miniscule barbs lining the shaft.  Though she wanted to taste her first, she felt the need to let this young herm know how it felt to be with another.  Once more, she kissed her lips, flicking her tongue against them gently before slipping it inside to tangle with hers.  While she distracted her, she guided the hard shaft she was stroking to the entrance of her body then slowly, deftly, slid it into her warm canal.

Both were overtaken by the rush of warmth that filled them as Sarri nestled the large, firm, prick into her body, feeling it touch the deepest part of her being.  Slowly, she rocked her hips, savoring the new sensation of making love with someone who was just like her.  Feeling the taut muscles of her canal tighten, she moaned and quickened her pace.

Catching on quickly, Sky lifted her hips, pushing deep into her new lover while she pressed downward onto her.  Over and over they met, bodies shaking from the pressure of their union as their desire grew stronger.  She could feel her erection twitch in the snug warm depths of the goddess.  When those strong muscles started to ripple, she gasped then moaned loudly; it was almost too much for her senses to bear.

Knowing how it felt, Sarri took her time, savoring the time she had with this beautiful, wonderful creature beneath her.  Like her, she was losing herself to the moment, her body aching to feel more and more of this young cat as they tried to mold their bodies into one being, just as their souls were now bound and formed into one loving spirit.  It became difficult for her to maintain the slower pace when she felt the rush of her orgasm ripple around the hot length inside of her.  Unbidden were the barbs as they scraped along her depths; making her tingle and cry out for more.

Just when it seemed they could take no more, Sky felt the sudden heat of her first orgasm spilling into the warm cavern of her goddess' womb.  She panted and moaned, twitching with each heartbeat as she emptied her sperm into her mate.  Even Sarri couldn't stop the rush of her second orgasm as she reached her peak and let her muscles milk every last drop from the throbbing length inside of her.

Still caught up in the moment after the last of her cream plugged her mate's canal, Sky felt a new ache within her.  There was more for her to enjoy and this strong, beautiful woman was more than happy to share it with her.  She knew without a doubt that soon, her body would no longer be so pure, but blessed with the goddess' seed.

Sareena knew what her new lover wanted and she felt it in her own loins.  Amazingly, she kept from exploding her cream all over the feline's chest when she climaxed.  But, that wouldn't last for long.  Quickly, she pulled herself from SkyDrifter's swollen red, cock then prepared to enter her depths.

Knowing that this was her first time, Sarri stroked her untried folds, feeling how wet and puffy they were from their mating and the dribble of the Kiyrie's cum as it slid along the thin line of her entrance.  Gently, she worked that mixed droplet into the female's tunnel as she wriggled a finger in to touch the barrier she still retained.

While she tickled her inner walls, she watched the kiyrie carefully, waiting for that moment when she knew she could enter and show her pleasure while taking her virginity.  Lost as she was to the moment, Sky could feel the ache grow within her, seeking to feel something more until she felt the goddess touch the tender hymen.  Cringing, she mewled softly and waited, hungering for the moment when she'd be opened.

Judging her to be ready, Sarri wedged herself between the female's legs until they were wrapped around her waist and pulling her closer out of instinct.  Both could smell the sweet scent of arousal and heat building as the tip of her shaft pressed against the tender folds.

The warmth of the Kiyrie's arousal guided Sarri into sliding effortlessly into the snug well until she felt the thin barrier blocking her way.  Take extra special care, she backed off slowly then slide back in, building her lover up to the point she'd feel nothing but pleasure when she broke through.  Over and over she thrust into her, feeling how damp she was becoming and the urgent ripple of her inner walls pulling at her swollen length.

Before she knew it, the goddess broke through and sunk deep into the younger woman's depths.  Her body shuddered with the control she exerted, wanting to feel more before filling this woman with her life giving seed.  Only for a moment she waited to let her lover become accustomed to the thick shaft being inside of her canal before she was thrusting hard and fast to bring her back to her peak quickly.  As much as she wanted to take it slow, she felt a sudden urge to finish and fill her new mate so they could celebrate with Sirabe.

The two women shuddered and clung tightly to each other while Sareena pounded into her.  They could only groan and gasp with each passing moment, mewling when the tension rose to a high peak.  Just as suddenly as the urge appeared, it broke, letting Sarri let loose a torrent of her seed into the womb of her new mate.

Tired from the exertion, they held on to each other and panted into one another's fur while they rested and caught their breath.  While Sarri basked in the afterglow, pleasantly weak and tired, Sky was in awe; never before feeling so much raw emotion and tingling within her own body.  It was as if she had been given a feast to eat from for the rest of her life.  There was nothing more that she wanted than to be loved by this woman she mated with.  Her first time was more than just special.  It went beyond anything she ever knew and she didn’t want it to end.

While they rested, SunSet and Sirabe found them and waited patiently for them to finish their fevered love-making..  Both were rather amused by the pairing though SunSet didn't like the idea of his sister being with an outsider, let alone a goddess.  Sirabe wasn't too pleased, either, but she felt proud of the young goddess even though she was jealous of the deep bond the pair had.

Sensing someone close by, Sarri lifted herself to see who then smiled at her companion.  “We were on our way to find you,” she said lazily, “but… we needed to take care of some personal business, first.  Glad you found us, instead.”  Then, she looked at her new mate and sighed happily, “Life couldn't be more complete at this very moment.”

Opening her eyes, Sky smiled and reached up to brush her fingers against Sarri's cheek then looked over at her brother and the elder feline.  “We... kind of needed to…  stop... for a moment.  It was so wonderful.”  She sighed happily, content to be opened by someone as special as the goddess.

Both mewled when Sarri pulled her softening erection from the Kiyrie's depths.  It was still red and twitching, but it seemed more so with virgin blood streaking the length.  Ignoring her own appearance and that she smelled of grass, sweat, and sex, she went to her avatar and kissed her.  While she showed her adoration, she felt the black feline’s mound with the tips of her fingers then purred huskily, “We need to go home, my love.  SkyDrifter is coming with us as our new mate,” then, more quietly, she whispered to Sirabe, “Don’t feel jealous of her.  She is our mate, not just mine.  Love her as I love you.”  Then, she smiled and held the avatar closely while she held a hand out for the Kiyrie herm.

Sirabe gave the goddess a searching look before she nodded and smiled.  She then licked her lips while the golden cat tickled her nethers so openly.  “I will,” she said proudly then gave the woman a kiss before drawing the Kiyrie into their arms.

Seeing her brother's expression while being taken into the arms of her mates, SkyDrifter smiled then giggled.  “Don't be so grouchy, brother.  This is what I've always wanted.  You can go and be happy.  There's no more need to worry about me now that I have these two.”  Giving each woman a kiss on the cheek, she purred then hugged them tight around the neck.  “I love you both!”

SunSet could only stutter in his utter amazement that his sister so easily trusted both felines and mated with one of them in the open.  It wasn’t that Sky had mated where everyone could see, but the fact she was doing it with a child of the demon god.  But, she looked so happy.  He never saw his sister smile so openly or look as content as she was at that moment.

As much as he wanted to pull her away from the two outsiders, he resisted and smiled.  “I’ll always worry about you, sis,” he said with a light chuckle, “That’s what big brothers do.”  Watching them for a moment longer, he started to turn away from them and opened his wings, “They better take good care of, SkyDrifter.  I don’t want to hear it if one of them decides to turn you away.”  Somehow, he knew neither of the felines would turn his sister away.  “Don’t forget about us,” he then said before taking flight.

As thick membranes beat the air, Sky, Sarri, and Sirabe looked up to watch him depart.  “Goodbye, brother,” the youngest of the three called out and waved to the departing male.  “I’ll miss you,” she quietly said, just loud enough for her new mates to hear.

Taking that as a cue, the three felines faded away, leaving the realm of the Kiyrie via Sarri's magic.  The empty, sun drenched, place they appeared in was made of clouds.  With Sirabe to guide her, Sarri went to the simple throne made from spun sunlight and drops of dew then took a seat.  Both Kiyrie and avatar watched as the young goddess closed her eyes and her body began to glow once again; brightly as if she were a mini-sun.

All around, the clouds opened, turning a faint pink before converging around them to form a building.  The sun's light became more golden with renewed light and the soft breezes swirled around merrily as life returned to the world.

Below, the faded colors brightened more quickly and the cries of the children subsided.  The threats that the mothers felt eased and then calmed into normalcy once again.  As mysteriously as it had all happened, it ended and everything felt the difference in the energy of the world of Haven.  Where the darkness had taken a firm hold, the renewed light pushed it back and breathed life back into the shadows.

Only in the Temples were the changes seen.  The priestesses regained their god-given powers and happily aided those who came to them.  The prayers they made once again lifted to the beings above.  Only those in the sanctuaries saw as the statues dedicated to the former goddess change into the more youthful and caring goddess adorned with a pair of feathered wings who now reined.  Beside the single goddess statue, two more appeared, both with dragon-like wings and adoring gazes to their mate.

Calm and smiling at the changes in her world, the goddess opened her eyes and looked at her two beautiful mates watching her.  Love surged through her being as she spoke, “Call me Aum.”