Leo Warrior: It Begins

By V. Ann Nulisch

Nar, a young cub of the Leo Pride tries to follow his destiny and find his place in a world filled with wars between different nations and hatred between different races. The only thing that gives him a hint is the title that the Voice of the Cat Moon has given him...Peacemaker. What is a Peacemaker? How can he know what this means if there has never been one before? As he searches for clues, he must deal with tragedy and disaster. Also, he finds beauty and wonder. His family and extended family are the most important things in the world to him. He finds that he must grow up quickly and do his best to put together the pieces of a puzzle that not only includes this family, but also other people and other nations. Will his enemies become friends, or kill those that he loves.? Others he thought he knew come in and out of his life causing disturbing distractions. How will he ever figure it all out? His only hope is a Spirit that connects everything together, Join him in the search for his own past and the realization of his future.

• Language: English
• Publisher: V. Ann Nulisch
• Release date: Aug 19, 2013
• ISBN: 9781301130351

V. Ann Nulisch

I was born and currently llive in Dallas, TX with my hubby, Larry. We have three sons, three grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

Book preview

LEO WARRIOR: It Begins

V. Ann Nulisch

SMASHWORDS EDITION

Cover Art by V. Ann Nulisch

Copyright 2013 by V. Ann Nulisch

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to Smashwords.com and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 - A Kitten and a Cur

Chapter 2 - A Friend Found

Chapter 3 - A Friend Lost

Chapter 4 - Trouble Comes Softly

Chapter 5 - A Whole Week?

Chapter 6 - Night of Legends

Chapter 7 - Waiting

Chapter 8 - A Long Winter

Chapter 9 - The Lost Returns

Chapter 10 - And Sometimes…Honor

Chapter 11 - We Meet Again

Chapter 12 - Something Important

Chapter 13 - So Much to Learn!

Chapter 14 - Family

Chapter 15 - Officially

Chapter 16 - Missing!

Chapter 17 - Hunting

Chapter 18 - What Moon Comes?

Chapter 19 - Friend or Foe?

Chapter 20 - A Darkness Comes

Chapter 21 - Sadness and Celebration

Chapter 22 - Decisions

Chapter 1 - A KITTEN AND A CUR

As he huddled in the corner of the cave, his knees pulled up under his chin, Nar listened to the sounds around him. His feline eyes, glowing in the dim light, followed the shuffling, fidgeting movements of the others around him. He could feel the cool dampness of the stone wall, pressed against his back. A sharp laugh broke out in one of the side tunnels, only to be muffled quickly. Was that Gainer? No. It was too deep. Gainer's voice was higher than that.

He felt an elbow nudge him in the ribs. He blinked once and turned to face another pair of glowing eyes.

How long do you think it’s been, Nar? I'm ready to be out of this place, a voice whispered near his ear.

I don't know, Bantu. It feels like we've been here forever!

I'm afraid, Nar. What if they don't come?

They'll come. They always come. Nar said, trying to put conviction into his voice. Then he turned back, laying his head on his arms, trying to listen again. Echoing softly, just barely audible as a background noise in the stir of sounds around him, Nar thought he could hear a muffled moan of pain. Mother? Is that you, Mother?

Where did Gainer go? He said he would be back in a minute.

Nar could hear the strain in his friend’s voice. He could hear it in many of the voices around him. He tried to think. Why didn't they come? It must almost be morning. It never took them this long before. Where are you, Father?

I've got to go see. He said softly, starting to rise from his cramped position.

But, you can't! You're not supposed to! Not yet! Bantu grabbed his arm, trying desperately to pull him back down to the floor.

She's my mother. Bantu! Why can't I go? Who’s going to stop me, anyway? He said fiercely, his eyes filling with tears as he shook off his friends grasp.

I'm going to stop you, cub! A snarling whisper came at him out of the darkness, along with two gleaming golden eyes. You know we're supposed to wait! Now sit down, before I knock you down!

Startled, both of the youths crouched back in their corner. Nar tried to control himself, but the sobs would not be stifled. They racked his small frame in hard, dry heaves. Tears streamed down his face.

Hey, don't cry...I...I only wanted you to sit down. It's going to be okay. I promise! With those words, Gainer crouched down and put his arms around his little brother. I wasn't as old as you are now when you were born. I tell you, everything will be just fine.

But...but...father wasn't away fighting Curs when I was born. It's been so long! I'm scared, Gainer. I'm scared he isn't coming back! There, he had said it. He had said his biggest fear out loud. Somehow, it made him feel a little better.

Don't worry, little brother, Our father is a good fighter. He won't let anything come between him and getting to see all three of his cubs. That, I know for a fact.

Nar leaned against his brother's chest, his sobs beginning to subside. He felt safe there with Gainer's arms around him, almost like when his mother held him. He hoped his brother wouldn't wander off again for awhile.

Suddenly, there was a high shrill wail that made Nar's hair stand up. He and Gainer both looked in the direction from which the sound had come. Nar could hear excited whispers and see other cubs hustling up against the walls as a pair of ruby red eyes moved toward them out of the shadows. Gainer stood up, pulling Nar with him.

Gainer! Nar! Come quickly! The kitten is here! You have a sister!

Nar could now make out the figure of Shalmar, even though he had known who was coming by the eyes. She was the eldest cub of the healer, Baska. She was older than Gainer, though not quite an adult. However, she already showed great promise as a healer. For this reason, she had been left to assist Nar's mother, Meesha, in the birth of her third kitten.

Come on! Let's go see, Nar! Gainer almost shouted, as he raced passed the other youths to the side cave where his mother was resting.

For some reason, Nar held back. He didn't know why, but he didn't want to see this new kitten, this sister. He had always been his mother's baby. He found he was hesitant to give up that place in his mother's heart.

Shalmar came to stand in front of him. She knelt down beside him, her big brown eyes glowing with a warm red color.

What's the matter, Nar? Don't you want to see your new sister? Aren't you excited?

I...I...I don't know, was all that he could say.

Ohhhh, I see. You're afraid your mother won't need you anymore. That she won't love you anymore. Am I right?

I...I...I guess so. He stammered miserably. I...I...

You won't be the baby anymore.

Y...Yes.

But you won't be the oldest.

Yes.

Well...look at it this way, Nar. You won't be the youngest cub. You won't be the oldest cub. But...you will be the ONLY kitling with an 'older' brother and a 'younger' sister. Do you know any other cat in the pride that can say that?

Nar looked into her eyes for a moment, soaking up what she was saying. Then, as the realization came over him, his face lit up with the biggest smile he had ever had. It was true. There was not another family in the whole village that had more than two cubs in it. In fact, most of them only had one! Why! Even his friend, Bantu, only had an 'older' brother. He didn't have a new sister! No one did!

With a loud Whoop, Nar raced through the cave to his mother. On his heels, he could hear a soft chorus of Shhhh! with an undercurrent of giggles. He didn't care though! He just wanted to see his mother and his new sister!

His pace slowed as he neared the alcove where his mother lay quietly on a pallet. Gainer sat cross legged near her head, a huge smile running from ear to ear. Almost sheepishly, Nar inched his way closer, past several of the elders who were there to wish the new mother and babe well. His mother looked up at him and smiled.

Come, Nar. Come see your little sister.She said, motioning for him to move closer.

As Nar moved to one side, he could just see something small and gray curled up in the crook of his mother's arm. He worked his way a little closer, trying to get a better look.

Then, his mother shifted her arm and...there she was!

Ohhh, Mother! She's beautiful! was all that he could say, as he reached out a finger to touch the downy gray fuzz on the kitten's head. She's so tiny. I've never seen anything so tiny. He whispered, afraid that he would wake the sleeping cub.

You were just as small. Nar. All new kitlings are this small.

Really?

Yes, my little kitling, really. Meesha smiled at her youngest son, watching the wonder of it all cross his face.

As Nar continued to watch the tiny ball of life, she began to stir. Ever so slowly, the little arms reached out and stretched, the mouth opening into the perfect '0' of a yawn. Then the eyes began to blink, slowly at first, then faster, finally opening all the way as if to stare directly into his eyes. Nar smiled, reaching out to touch one of the tiny fists.

Hello, little sister. I'm your brother, Nar. What are you going to call her, Mother? Nar whispered looking at his mother's smiling face.

Her name is Chasta.

Hello, Chasta. We're going to be great friends, aren't we?

As he touched her fist again, she opened her hand and grasped the end of his finger, tugging at it gently, as if to put it in her mouth.

Come, now, you two. We must let your mother and new sister rest. It has been a long day for both of them.

Shalmar touched Nar's shoulder gently. Nar wasn't really ready to leave. He liked being this close to his mother and Chasta. However, when he looked at his mother's face again, he could see the weariness in her eyes. Slowly, he got to his feet and allowed himself to be herded out of the alcove along with Gainer. Bantu met them at the entrance.

What does she look like? Is she pretty? I've never seen a newborn cub. He said, his voice trailing off on the last sentence.

She's beautiful, Bantu. She's gray, like mother, with big gray eyes. In fact...I think she is just about the most beautiful newborn kitten I have ever seen! said Nar. He stood in front of his friend, his hands resting on his hips.

Listen to you, cub! From the way you talk, someone would think that you see new kittens every day. You know as well as I do that she's the only newborn you've ever seen.

Well...yes...but, she's still the most beautiful one I've ever seen. Nar said. He looked his brother in the eye defiantly, his arms across his chest.

Well, little brother, I've seen two. And you're right, she is the most beautiful. Not that you weren't cute, squirt. Gainer said as he reached out and tickled his little brother in the ribs.

Oh, stop...it! Stop it, Gainer! Nar doubled over in laughter, trying to back away from his brother. All he managed to do was trip over one of the other cubs in the cave and fall backwards unceremoniously.

Immediately, a scuffle broke out. Youngsters were trying to trip or tickle each other. Laughter began to ripple back to the farthest corners of the small cavern. The tension of

waiting was broken and an air of well-being settled on the entire group.

* * * * * * * * * *

Nar turned restlessly in his sleep. Something was after him. Something was after him and Chasta. He was holding the tiny babe in one arm while trying to keep something away from both their faces. He moaned loudly, flailing his arms at something in the dark.

Nar! Nar! Are you all right? Someone was shaking him violently. Then, suddenly, he was awake.

What? What happened? He asked sleepily, rubbing his eyes as he sat up.

You were having a bad dream. You kept saying 'Get away! Get away!' What were you dreaming about, Nar?

Nar looked at his brother as if he were crazy. I don't know, Gainer. I only know that something was trying to get Chasta. I had to keep it away. It was going to hurt her.

Don't worry little brother. Chasta is fine. She's with Mother. Now go back to sleep.

Nar shook his head again, trying to clear out the images he had seen so clearly. He lay back down between his brother and Bantu, but could not go back to sleep. Something bad was going to happen, he just knew it.

When he finally heard Gainer's breathing become deep and regular again, he carefully got up and moved quietly through the other sleepers. He knew that he wasn't supposed to go out of the cave until the Warriors returned, but he just had to look at the sky one time before he went back to sleep. As he moved through the shadows, he was careful to avoid stepping too close to anyone's pallet. He had to take a long circuitous route since, at only five summers his legs were still too short to step over some of the larger cubs and elders.

Finally, he approached the entrance to the cave. He looked cautiously at all of the guards. Some of them were dozing. He felt he could slip quietly past these. However, this he knew would be the easy part. He hoped he could get through the thicket of bushes covering the entrance without making too many rustling noises.

Stealthily, he eased his small body past first one guard, then another, until he stood just inside the cave's entrance. In the dim light, he could barely make out the lines of the bushes and trees that provided cover for the hidden sanctuary. He crouched low and began worming his way through the lower bushes, near the ground.

A sound! Something moved outside the cave. Nar froze, his ears straining to hear any other noises. He flared his nostrils unconsciously, breathing in the night air. His eyes were mere slits, as he scanned the little that he could see through the foliage. Nothing seemed to be moving now.

As he lay there, afraid to move, Nar became uncomfortably aware of a branch that poked him in the ribs when he breathed. Still, he remained motionless—one minute, two, three, an hour, a day, a week. He wasn't sure anymore. He knew it couldn't have been very long, but all he could think about was that stupid, CurFur branch that kept scraping his side.

After not hearing or seeing anything for what seemed an eternity, he decided he had to do something about that branch. Cautiously, he moved one of his hands in that general direction, trying to avoid as much noise as possible. There it was again! Nar's hand froze in mid-air. His whole body tingled, as if trying to help him hear even the slightest noise. There, a third time! This time he was sure that he heard something outside the cave. What was he going to do now?

If he lay quietly, whatever it was might go away. However, it might also decide to enter the cave and attack him and everyone else. If he raised an alarm, then the safety of the secret cave would be lost forever, possibly for a false danger. Nar was in a quandary. The only thing that he knew for sure was that he had to do something, anything, to draw attention away from the entrance to the cave.

There was a flash of light and a deep rumble in the distance. Nar recognized it as the signs of an approaching storm. From the short time between the flash and the sound, he could tell that the storm was practically upon them. He wasn't really surprised to have it arrive so quickly. Storms tended to do that. However, he knew that the storm could very well be the reason that something was approaching the cave.

He waited for the lightning to flash again. Then he counted slowly to see how much time between the flash and the thunder. He continued counting to see how long the thunder would last. He did this through three flashes. Yes, it was one of the summer storms. They moved in quickly, drenched everything and disappeared as suddenly as they had come. They also made a wonderful display of light and sound. Better than your average spring or winter ones.

Timing his movement to the storm, Nar waited for the flash of light. As soon as it went out and the rumble began, he forced his way through the brush as quickly as he could, counting so that his noise stopped an instant before the thunder. It took him two tries to finally get clear of the brush and secrete himself behind several rocks.

Cautiously peeking out of his hiding place, he waited for the lightning again. This time, he scanned the open area of the slope that led down to the valley below. He could see nothing. He waited again.

The lightning flashed on cue. There, at the edge of a large boulder, he could see something dark crouched in the shadow made by the brilliant light. Then the light was gone again. Nar strained his eyes, trying to see any motion in the darkness.

The lightning flashed for the third time. This time, it caught the creature in full silhouette. It was a Cur! Nar's heart raced in his chest, the blood pounding in his ears. He had to draw it away from the cave entrance. It must not have a chance to get at any of the Leo cubs that lay sleeping in the small haven. But what could he do? He wasn't a Warrior. He wasn't even old enough to have started hunting lessons yet. He had no weapons, nothing with which to defend himself.

A picture of Chasta, so tiny and defenseless flashed before his eyes. It didn't matter. Something inside told him he had to protect his little sister at all cost, even that of his own life.

In the darkness between flashes, Nar crept from one shadow to another, moving away from the cave's entrance. He worked his way around until he was up wind of the Cur, hoping that his scent would distract it from the search for shelter. He was not disappointed. A loud howl broke the night air, then another. It was the hunting cry of the Cur. Nar intentionally let himself be seen when the lightning flashed again. There was no mistake. The Cur was on his trail.

Running with every ounce of speed he could muster, Nar raced down the slope toward the abandoned Leo village. He hoped he might find a spear, a knife, anything so that he could go down fighting. He knew from legends and the retold experiences of Warriors that he did not have a chance in a million of surviving this encounter. He was too small, too inexperienced, and totally out of his league. Still, it made him feel good to know that he was brave enough to try. Nar knew the elders that had been left to guard the cubs would have been alerted by the howls. However, they were old fighters. They knew their limitations. The best thing that they could do was defend the entrance to the cave with everything they had. That was why the cubs, the old, and the sick were always moved to an easily defensible place when Cur raiding parties threatened the village. There would be no help from them. No, his best hope was that the rain would start soon, washing away his scent, and that he could find a tree tall enough to put him out of the Cur's weapon range.

Nar's breath was beginning to come in sharp gasps now. He had run at top speed the quarter mile or so from the cave to the village. Every so often, his heart was chilled by the howl of the Cur that he knew would be closing in on him. He was a fast runner, but he did not have the endurance of a fully grown hunter.

As he ran, Nar kept chanting to himself, Please rain. Please rain. By the time he reached the village, he had made the decision not to stop and look for a weapon. It wouldn't do him any good anyway. Instead, he raced through the deserted village, splashing across the creek that ran down the center, and headed straight into the woods.

As he entered the woods, he could hear the heavy breathing of the Cur behind him. He didn't dare look back. Instead, he darted between the trees, trying to make it to the old oak. It was the biggest tree in the forest. Maybe...just maybe he'd be safe there, if he was fast enough.

A howl! Almost in his ear! Nar could feel a sharp pain in his side. Please rain! Please rain! The pounding in his chest was almost unbearable. There! Up ahead! The oak! If he could only make it to the oak! He felt something like fire graze his back. It spurred him to that last burst of adrenalin.

Then a huge shadow leaped onto the path in front of him. He knew that he would never be able to stop his headlong momentum in time. As suddenly as it appeared, it disappeared. His path to the tree was clear again. At the last few feet he leaped as high and far as he could, extending his claws to scramble up the tree as quickly as possible. Something grabbed his ankle and threatened to pull him out of the tree.

When he thought he could hold on no longer, there was loud shriek of pain, a sickening crunch, and a resounding thud. Nar didn't look back as the grip on his ankle was released. He continued to scurry up the tree, as far as he could go. He could hear the sounds of a fierce struggle with howls and shrieks in the bushes below.

The lightning flashed as Nar, finally as high up as he could safely reach, turned and looked down. The sight, lighted in sharp detail, at the bottom of the tree almost made him sick to his stomach. The Cur, or what was left of it, lay at the base of the tree, literally torn to shreds.

Rain began to fall on Nar's back and head. He stared at the dark spot on the ground, waiting for the lightning to flash once more. As it did, something moved to stand beside the Cur's body. Two soft brown eyes looked quizzically up at him.

Gable, was all he could manage between gasps for air. Gable.

When Nar finally caught his breath, he eased himself down the far side of the tree, away from the dead Cur. As he stepped down onto the ground, a soft velvet nose nuzzled his ear, blowing warm breaths into his mane. All he could do was turn and throw his arms around the doe's neck, sobbing as the full realization of what had and hadn't happened hit him. The doe stood patiently, sniffing him, stroking him with soothing gentle breaths.

He could smell his mother's scent on the doe's hair. It was the most wonderful thing he had ever smelled in his entire life. Finally, his trembling under control, Nar managed to coax the doe near a small tree that he could use to mount her tall back.

Oh, Gable, it is so good to see you. I know Mother sent you. You are the most beautiful and brave Warbuck I have ever seen!

The doe moved slowly and cautiously back toward the village, thoughtfully skirting the body of the Cur. Nar had ridden the domestic antelope all of his life. However, he had never been on a Warbuck by himself. Usually, it wasn't recommended. They were trained fighters and, hence, could be dangerous to an inexperienced rider. Somehow, Nar wasn't afraid. After all, this was his Mother's Spirit-Eyes! It was their spiritual link that had allowed Meesha to send the doe to her son's rescue. Gable would not hurt him, not intentionally.

Nar laughed out loud, throwing his head back and catching raindrops in his mouth. It was a wonderful life! And it was wonderful to be alive!

* * * * * * * * * *

Grindon clenched his teeth against the throbbing pain in his shoulder. Oh, to be home again…to curl up with Meesha, his lifemate…to see his two sons and the new kitten. If only this tedious trip would end! Still, he was fortunate. He was alive. There were others in the war party not so lucky. He counted again in his head how many were dead or wounded.

The first to fall had been Lord Zefer. He was the oldest warrior in the group, the most experienced. His cubs were grown and his mate had died last winter of a terrible fever. Since then, he had grown reckless in his fighting. Perhaps, it was for the best that his grief would now be over. After Zefer came Robet, a young, promising warrior. He would have taken a mate next spring. A sad loss, for he would have fathered strong kitlings. The Pride needed as many kittens as it could produce.

Next, Lady Megan was wounded. Fortunately, she would recover. However, she would be blind in one eye. A small loss actually, for she was the proud mother of two growing sons, both of whom showed great promise.

Gimbal and Lauren had been caught together, as they always were, by a well swung axe in the hands of an enormous Cur. Both would live, but the date of their mating would have to be pushed some distance into the future.

Lord Jimbob...my friend, Jimbob, was the next. Grindon felt a lump in his throat. He and Jimbob had grown up together. Their first cubs had come on the same day. Jimbob, old friend, you will be mourned by two families, not just one. Shaking his head to clear the aching memories, Grindon continued his count. Lady Sereena, beautiful little Sereena, she fell next. He remembered the day she had been born. She was a rare one in the Leo line. Her hair was snow white with a mane of silver gray. Her eyes were like two rising suns. She had only taken a mate this last spring, a young Calco named Blue Rex. They had been visiting her parents when the impending attack of Curs was discovered. As true Warriors, they joined in the fight. Now, as Grindon looked to his left, he could see the young Lord mounted on his Warbuck, cradling the body of his beloved in his arms. The pain and grief of his loss was openly displayed on his young face. Beside him rode Sereena's parents. She had been their only cub.

Again, Grindon clenched his teeth, his shoulder throbbing with renewed pain. He was the next in line. He remembered blocking a spear thrust that would have ended a young huntress’ life, after the doe she was riding fell to an arrow. Apparently, he had left his back open to another Cur's spear. He couldn't really remember. The next thing he saw was his Warbuck, Racer, standing across him, fighting two Curs with lances. He knew that only Racer's fierce courage, and their bond as Spirit-Eyes, had saved his life. Here, the battle became hazy, almost like a dream. He lowered his head, rubbing his eyes, trying desperately to remember what had come next. He knew that others would fill in what he forgot, but it seemed important to at least try to recall as much as he could on his own.

Does your shoulder pain you greatly, Lord Grindon? Is there anything that I might do to help?

Grindon looked at the young huntress who had ridden up beside him, her face filled with concern. Tresa...that was her name. She was the one whose life he had saved. From what he could tell, other than a few scrapes, bruises, and a dirty face, she was none the worse for her fall. She was mounted on the doe that Sereena had been riding.

Are you well, Tresa? You took a very nasty fall. Did your doe not make it?

I am fine of body but sad in spirit, Lord Grindon. Leaf was not wounded badly, but she broke her leg in the fall. Lord Baska put her out of her pain. It hurt so much to lose a good mount that was not bound to me as a Spirit-Eyes. What must it be like for Lord Rayth? She had lowered her head when she began speaking, but with the last question, her eyes met his. He could see all of the anguish that the loss of your first mount can mean. He reached out with his good hand and placed it over hers.

It happens, Lady Tresa. It happens to us all at sometime or another. It is good that your first was only an animal friend. For it to be your first AND your Spirit-Eyes might have been too much for one young huntress to bear. However, Lord Rayth has survived this loss before. He will survive it now. All wounds heal with time.

Thank you. Lord Grindon. Was all Tresa could say, her eyes brimming over with tears. He squeezed her hand and then released it, knowing that she would need time to herself to sort through her feelings. She urged her mount ahead.

How goes it, Lord Grindon?

Turning on Racer's back, Grindon saw the smiling but concerned face of the Pride's healer, Lord Baska.

I'll live. He said smiling back at his friend. How bad is it, Baska? How many do not return home with us tonight? I can remember four dead and, with me, four wounded. How many have I missed?

I am happy to say, only one. However, I do not know if we should count her in the wounded or the dead. Lady Rain's wound was not made by a weapon. She was bitten.

Bitten! But that means...the Cur might be...does Morgan know!?! Grindon's good hand closed into a tight fist. Curs could bite, just as an unarmed Leo might, as any animal might. However, they seldom did unless they were Maddogs, carriers of the deadly madness that was the curse of their race.

He knows, but he has not yet let anyone tell Megan. He does not want her to worry until her own wounds are better. Already, he grieves, but not as much as when he thought he might lose daughter and Cat Moon Mate.

I grieve for him, as well. If indeed the Cur was a Maddog, her death could be…

Grindon's voice trailed off. Even thinking of death by the madness was unbearable, much less actually putting it into words. His troubles were few compared to others in the war party. He thanked the Cat Moon again for looking with mercy upon him and his family.

How much longer until we will be back to the village?

An hour, perhaps two. I sent three of the warriors ahead to bring the others down from the caves. There will be much wailing in the village this night, much sadness.

True, Lord Baska, too true.

* * * * * * * * * *

Nar sat quietly outside Lord Baska's lodge. His father had told him not to dare move even a whisker. His father was angry with him. Sheepskins, but he had never seen his father so mad! He had already been chastised by Gainer. His mother had given him one of those deep hurt looks that always made him miserable. Now his father was determined to see to it that he did not step out of line again, probably until he was as old as Grandpa Ralda!

Still, he got the faintest impression that they were proud of him, too. After all, he might have saved the lives of every Leo cub in that cave. How could anyone know that the Cur that had chased him was part of a scouting party sent by the main group to find the Leo children and kill them? As it turned out, by luring the scout away from the cave, he had also lured the rest of the party away. The returning Leo Warriors had caught the scouts, eight in all, and quickly dispatched them without anymore losses. In all reality, Nar thought, he was probably a hero! However, you did not reward fool hardy actions, even if they did turn out well. Otherwise, every cub in the Pride would be out looking for Curs!

Oh, well, at least it was a nice evening. The stars were out in full force. The Mother Moon was high in the sky, a greenish glow to one side of her face. That was all that was left of the showing that the Cat Moon made once each year. Every year, at the beginning of the Summer, a soft green glow would appear from behind the Mother Moon. For five nights, that glow would grow ever stronger. On the sixth night, and the following five nights, the Cat Moon would peer out from behind the Mother Moon, its pale green face and brightly glowing green eyes lighting up the evening sky.

During these five days, the Cat Prides would gather at a preselected village and celebrate the Festival of the Cat Moon. It was a celebration of everything being a Cat meant. The festival this year had been in the Calco village. It was barely a day's journey away.

Then, for the next five days, the Mother Moon would again have a pale greenish glow to one side. Finally, all traces of the Cat Moon would disappear from the evening sky for another year. Nar watched this glow now, knowing that this was the last evening that he would be able to see any of it.

Come, kitling. We must hurry back to your mother. She does not need to be left alone with the new kitten right now. She has had a lot to worry about in the last three days. His father said, leaning over slightly, his hands on his hips, looking pointedly at Nar. Nar cringed, trying to make himself as small as he possibly could.

I'm sorry, Father. He whispered for what felt like the hundred-thousandth time.

Grindon knelt down in front of his youngest son, a stern expression on his face. He could see the misery on the cub's face for having foolishly worried his mother when she was not feeling well. Grindon's frown turned into a smile.

Come on. Little Warrior, let's go home. He said, ruffling Nar's mane and taking him by the hand. Nar's face lit up, as he took his father's large hand in his two small ones.

Yes! Let's go home and see Chasta! And Mother and Gainer, too. He ended hurriedly, looking up into his father's face.

Chapter 2 - A FRIEND FOUND…

Lady Randeen looked up from the hide that she was scraping and glanced over to where her grandson was bent industriously over some mysterious project. He had been there for over an hour, just out of the line of traffic, his back to anyone who might happen by. Whatever he was doing, he seemed to be having a little bit of trouble. She had seen him throw it down in disgust at least three times. Then he would get up and stand with his back to it, his arms tight across his chest, shifting from one foot to the other, and obviously doing his best to think of every swear word he had ever heard to mutter under his breath. However, after a few minutes of this, he would slowly begin to look back over his shoulder, and finally, with resignation, sit back down to work at it again. Nar might be young, but he was obviously not a quitter. He also looked like he could use a little help. She stood up slowly, brushed and folded the hide she had been working on, placing it over her arm, and nonchalantly wandered over to where he sat. She stood quietly for a moment then moved so that she cast a shadow over his work area.

Grandmother! He gasped, as he turned to see what was suddenly blocking his light. I didn't hear you!

I'm sorry, Nar. I was just taking this skin in and saw you working there. I thought you might join me in a walk. However, if you're too busy, I'll understand.

I... I... I am kind of busy, but..." Nar looked down at whatever was hidden in his hands, then back at his grandmother.

That's all right. I know you're trying to get ready for the festival. We're all pretty busy. Maybe later.

Yeah...maybe later... As she turned to leave, he seemed to have second thoughts. Grandmother...MeeMaw...could you help me.

Randeen could tell that he was almost on the verge of tears. As she looked back at him, he looked absolutely miserable. Obviously, whatever it was, he considered it very important.

Certainly, little son, what seems to be the problem?

I...I...I can't make it work. Not like father and Grandpa Ralda... The tears were shimmering in his eyes as he held up what appeared to be a crude flint arrowhead and wooden shaft.

Hmmmmm, did you make this, Nar?

Yes... His lower lip was trembling now. I wanted to make a special gift for Grandpa Ralda, since he is one of the elders at the festival this year. It isn't very good, though. He hung his head, almost ready to cry.

Now, now, let me see. Let's see what we can do here. What seems to be the exact problem? Randeen knelt down in front of her grandson, taking his hands in hers as she began to inspect his work.

Will it not stay on the shaft, is that the problem?

Yes, ma'am. See, it's too thick on this side and too thin on the other. I've tried and tried, but I can't get it to stay on. I can't seem to do anything right. He said, sounding as if he had just been sentenced to death.

Let me take a close look at that. Randeen said, picking up the piece of flint and shaft. Well, no wonder, little son, these two pieces don't go together! Why, it's very obvious...well...maybe not to you, since you are a little bit new to this. However... She said, closing one eye and sticking out the tip of her tongue as she studied the stone.

What, MeeMaw? What's obvious? What is it? Nar said, wiping his nose with the back of his hand, excitement and hope creeping into his voice.

Why, this piece of flint isn't supposed to be an arrowhead, a very common mistake for someone just learning the craft.

It isn't? His face fell. Then what is it supposed to be?

I'd say, from the way it's notched on this side, has this little hole here, and is flat and smooth on this side, it's supposed to be a Think Stone.

A Think Stone? What's that, MeeMaw? Nar asked, more perplexed than sad now.

A Think Stone, a Fret Stone, a Worry Rock. They're all in the same family. It's a stone that you carry with you in your pocket or wear around your neck. When you need to do some serious thinking or fretting or worrying, you take it, in the palm of one hand and rub it with the other, like this. Randeen suited her action to her words, placing the stone in her right palm with the flat side up and rubbing it with the fingers of our left hand. However, this one looks like it might be better used in just one hand, like this.

Nar watched as she set the stone on the two first fingers of her right hand and rubbed it with the her right thumb.

But...but then...I still don't have a gift for Grandpa. He said, beginning to look dejected again.

Sure you do, little son. Let's go in and find some colored cord. I'll show you how to make a nice braided chain for it.

But he's a Warrior! He uses arrows!

And he has arrows. Lot's of them. But, I promise you, he does NOT have a Think Stone.

Really? Nar's little face brightened. Oh, MeeMaw, I wish I had asked you sooner! You make everything work out right!

That's what grandmother's are for, Nar, didn't you know that?

Taking Nar's hand, the two of them went back into her lodge where they quickly found several pieces of bright red cord. In a short time, she had helped his inexperienced fingers work the cord into a stout braid and tie the piece of flint securely to it. She put it over her head so that he could see how it looked. It fell just below the center of her chest.

Oh, MeeMaw! It's perfect! Oh, thank you! Thank you! Nar hugged his grandmother.

Now, let me see...yes, here it is. This will do nicely to wrap it in until you get ready to give it to your grandfather. So saying, Randeen pulled a small piece of soft red leather from a pile of scraps left over from making new moccasins for Chasta.

Thanks, MeeMaw. But where can I hide it until the festival? Nar asked, a worried expression returning to his face.

Put it inside your sleeping pallet. Ralda has no reason to look there.

Great! Nar said, as he scampered off on his secret mission.

Randeen watched her youngest grandson disappear. It was nice to have the cubs in the lodge again. It had been so long since there had been little ones in her home. Her Pride, the Bengals, had not been blessed with as many cubs as in the old days. The approach of the Festival of the Cat Moon was always a blessing, as it brought all of the Prides together, and, of course, the cubs were there.

There were so many things she needed to be doing. The Bengals were hosting the festival this year, and with Ralda as one of the chief elders, there seemed a never ending list of chores and projects and details to be attended to. Still, the break with her grandson was something she wouldn't have missed for all of the festivals in the world. To her, as to all Cat mothers and grandmothers, the cubs came first.

Slowly, she began moving around the lodge, picking up scattered clothing, sorting through objects, generally straightening the chaos that seemed to be everywhere. She turned as her sharp ears caught a footstep at the door.

Randeen? Have you seen the cloak...

...that you're to wear at the festival. Yes, it's right here on this peg where I told you it would be.

How about the belt...

...that you are to give to Lord Willum as the guest of honor? On the peg under the cloak.

Well...What about the new bridal...

...for your Warbuck, Zeber. It too is on the peg, under the belt, under the cloak. Will there be anything else, Lord Ralda?

Honestly, little mother, I don't know what I would do without you.

Probably starve, knowing you. She smiled at her lifemate, touching his cheek. He took her hand, kissed the palm gently then let it go.

Thank you, little mother. Even after their lifetime together, there was a gentle tenderness between them that became obvious at times.

Come, Lord Ralda. There is much to be done. For that reason, I suggest you and I take a short walk and sort our tasks.

A fine idea, little mother. An excellent idea!

* * * * * * * * *

Nar was practically dancing, as he moved away from the Bengal village toward the rocky slopes beyond. He had finally finished his gift for his grandfather and was free to do whatever he wanted. Not that he hadn't wanted to make the gift. It had just turned out to be more difficult than he had expected.

Now, though, the day was his. What should he do first? He slowed his pace to a walk, gazing up the slope of the hill in front of him. Sheepskins, but it would be nice when Bantu arrived. He enjoyed visiting his grandparent's village, but there just weren't very many cubs to play with that were even close to his age. Most of them were Gainer's age or older. He missed his friend again. Well, Bantu would arrive with the rest of the Leo village at the end of the week. That was only three days away. Until then, he would just have to entertain himself.

He stopped, looking again up the slope. This was so different from his village. Where his village was almost completely surrounded by tall pine and oak forest, the Bengal village sat in a small valley surrounded by high cliffs and steep rocky ledges. Most of the ledges were too steep to climb. Just the single sloping area that he now faced allowed access to the valley. Even so, the climb was not a simple one.

Nar continued up the slope, stopping to cast an occasional stone at an imaginary Cur, hiding in one of the many clusters of rocks. Finally, he reached his goal. He stopped before a large flat boulder, perhaps three feet in height. Scrambling up its side, he was careful not to step into the patch of stickweed around the base.

Once on top of the stone, he stretched out to full length, basking in the warmth of the noonday sun. Resting his head on his arms, he watched the lazy parade of clouds across the bright blue sky. At first, he hunted for familiar shapes of animals or trees among the fleecy white clusters. However, he soon closed his eyes, feeling himself growing drowsy with the warmth. He began to dream.

Someone was crying in his dream. Crying? Who would be crying? He moved restlessly, covering his eyes with one of his arms. He could still hear it, a soft whimpering cry. He turned over on his side, trying to recapture the mood of his dream. Finally, he opened his eyes wide. Sheepskins! He was wide awake, yet he still heard the sound of crying. He sat up, looking all around for anything unusual. He saw nothing. He glanced down toward the village, which, from where he was, he could see plainly, nothing strange there. Everyone moved about their tasks the same as always.

Finally, he just sat, cocking his head first this way, then that, trying to find out where the sound was coming from. It was coming from up there, somewhere near the top of the slope and a little to his left. Who was crying, and why?

He couldn't stand it. His curiosity had the better of him. He had to know who or what was making that noise. Nar climbed carefully down from his perch. He pulled his small hunting knife, which he had carried since he could walk, and began making his way slowly up the slope. He was very careful to keep the piles of rocks between him and the sound.

As he neared the crest of the hill, the sound stopped. Nar froze, listening with every part of his body. Then it began again, slightly muffled this time, as if someone were trying to hold it in. He crouched low as he approached the last clump of rocks and peered around the edge.

His eyes locked with a pair of eyes the color of the sun. The eyes were wide and rimmed with fear and pain. Nar's first impulse, as he looked at the long face, pricked ears, and prominent fangs was to run as fast as he could, back to the village. Then his racing mind grasped the entire picture. The youth before him was about his age and size. He was apparently either in trouble or hurt. He was also a Cur. He cringed away from Nar, baring his fangs in a halfhearted manner. He looked very tired.

Slowly, Nar put his knife away. He glanced down at the Cur's right leg, the foot and ankle of which were wedged between two stones. It was obvious from the blood and swelling, that he had been trying for some time without success to free himself.

Who are you? Are you hurt? He asked. The Cur watched him curiously, its head cocked to one side. He repeated the questions. Still, there was no response except that the Cur's head cocked to the other side.

I'm Nar. Who are you? He asked, pointing first to himself then at the Cur. Now the youth leaned forward slightly, a furrow appearing on his brow as he obviously tried to understand what Nar was saying.

"I am Nar. I am Nar." He said, finally reverting to a few of the words in the Old Tongue that he knew. "I am Nar." He repeated, placing both hands on his chest. The Cur continued to watch him closely, cocking his head first to one side then the other.

"I am Nar. Who are you? "Nar repeated very slowly, again pointing to himself, then to the youth. "I am Nar. Who are you?"

A light seemed to go on in the Cur's eyes. Pointing first at Nar and then himself, he said, "You are Nar. I am Bearuk." A smile glowed