A Merry Kitten Christmas, 5 free porn video

A Merry Kitten Christmas, 5 The second storm predicted, was going to hit harder and longer than the first, but thankfully there was a long enough lull between the two that the tribes were able to get hay and feed to the stranded livestock and herd guards. To everyone's delight Tomcat Lightfeather had arrived before the first storm leading two of his friends from school driving their own trucks. And while he hadn't told anyone what he was bringing, something we found out had caused his Mother, Otter a great deal of concern, he had no trouble selling every bit of stock that they brought with them. Otter didn't like not knowing what the Families trucks were hauling. She didn't want anyone hauling anything dangerous or illegal. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ We were still digging out from the first storm, helping insulate the FEEP's Transport against the cold. I still had a problem with that name for our new friends. It carried undertones of Non Persons with it. They continued to reassure us that they themselves preferred to be called 'Tanks'. "Why?" I'd asked. "Wasn't that coined by ignorant people who couldn't see you for the wonderful people you are?" "Well yes, but it also defines us as a Race." She said. "Ask anyone on one of the other planets you might visit who to call for solving a difficult Programming Problem, and they will tell you, Call a Tank." Seeing that I still wasn't sure her husband Hob tried next to explain it. "It's not because we were born in Invetro Tanks. It is because we have endured so much where others have perished. We survived slave Labor camps, persecution and genocide. Much like the Jewish and certain desert tribes on Earth. We are like Battle Tanks shrugging off what would destroy lessor people. So don't be afraid to call us Tanks, we are proud of the name." (In the beginning tanks had been created with a limited life span of twenty five years. They'd been Speed grown to a maturity level of about a fifteen year old in less than two years then taught the skills that were required in less than a year and sent out to the Labor camps. At the pre-designated termination date programmed into their bodies they simply died. When the Cyber War broke out, led by Tanks, the first beings found out and stepped in to set things right. Ariel and Darklight had used great amounts of Magic to remove the life limitations from all the survivors.) Finally realizing they had a valid point I smiled. "My home is always open to you and any other Tanks who want to stop and visit." "Yes, we'd all love to have you all visit whenever you are passing through or just feel like kicking back and resting for a while, maybe settle down and call this planet home," added Fire. Before we could say more we heard the sounds of what we thought were motorcycles. We followed the excited girls outside to see a group of young Braves on Snowmobiles pulling huge sleds loaded down with even more of the wonderful machines. Zoe jumped off from behind him, her stomach huge with their first child. "Miss Tyler, we just got back from Earth. Look what we brought for everyone," There were four they had brought for us, and I insisted on paying for them and the cost of shipping. "Mr Lightfeather, the you have brought something none of us thought about. and to us that is a huge gift in itself. So please let us repay your expenses." Zoe giggled. "Everyone keeps telling us the same thing. We brought a lot more. But they have to be converted to a Cold Fusion Drive. Fender Skirts and the Tomahawk Towing and Recovery Garage are working steady to get the rest converted. We wanted to be sure to get these out to you as soon as they were ready." Of my Kittens I think Samantha and Kairi had the most fun, they were chasing after each other on their own machines. And then with a giggle Kairi scooped up a handful of snow. Speeding past Samantha where she was watching Hope teaching Colene, she launched it perfectly to go down the front of her sisters top. After the resulting squeals of indignant cold, we soon found ourselves watching and trying to referee a snowball fight on snowmobiles. We were watching my sister Marissa's kittens playing, learning to ride them, then one of the larger four person models was brought over in front of Fire and the Centaurs. "Oh, I'm afraid we couldn't hope to ride one of those," said Fire. "Momma, it's easy," said Tuti. "All the controls are on the handlebars." Samantha had been teaching her the basics and now she was wavering. I could almost read her thoughts. Should she remain steadfast against learning to ride one, or should she give in this once in front of her herd and let out the little filly yearning to play. Grinning I stood up taking her hand, "Come on you can ride behind me and I will show you how they work." I waited until she was behind me, her arms around my waist. Then I started off slow going around in circles following the paths made by the others. After a few minutes I let it glide as I let go of the controls and guided her hands into place. As I guided her through steering and speed control. We were keeping a steady ten to twenty miles an hour. Then as we got farther from the rest she giggled happily and opened it up more. Soon we were racing along as we jumped snow drifts. It wasn't long before we were joined by other Centaurs and we were having so much fun. We swung farther out toward the freeway and suddenly she stopped, her head up listening intently. I turned to look at her curious. "Did you hear it Erika? A child, I heard a child," and suddenly we were racing along the canyon that split off from the main branch. We were going so fast that when we passed the little overhang she couldn't stop in time. Suddenly I found myself alone on the snowmobile as she lept off all four feet sliding to break her forward motion as I fought to stop and turn the huge machine. By the time I'd gotten it turned around and sped back she was pulling the child out to her. I was trying to get a look but she was already wrapping her coat around it. "Erika we need to get him back and get him warm," she said. I got back on and then she pressed him into my arms taking the controls again. Finally as I looked down I was staring into the face of a very young Terrellian boy. Those big eyes staring up at me, scared and yet inviting. I could see the hunger in his eyes, feel the shiver of deep cold. We were almost back when several people raced past heading the other way. one turned around to pace alongside us. "What's going on?" I asked. "A search party, Jewel Sages son Simon is missing," yelled Zoe beside us. "Simon? You mean one of Crystals sisters children?" I asked. We'd never seen any of her children yet. "How old is he?" Fire was beginning to slow down. "He got scared and jumped but they don't know where too. He's Terrellian born." "Zoe, call them and tell them he's safe. We're taking him to the house to warm up and get him something to eat," Fire said. "Cass, would you relay the message. He's at the Tyler ranch." She asked of her husband's truck. We hurried into the house to the fire place. "Hope get us some milk and something to eat," I said as we entered. "Tuti, would you go bring a goat from the barn?" asked Fire. I looked at her strangely, why would she need a goat? "His system has been transformed. Aside from warm food he will also need some blood, not much but he is like Norrish." "Oh, ooh, yes please hurry." I said when I saw his worried smile. The phone began to ring. "Hello," Kairi answered. "Just a moment." "This is Erika Tyler," I said when she handed it to me. "Miss Tyler, this is Crystal. Please tell me Simon is safe," she sounded worried. "Yes he's safe. Fire heard him and we brought him to the house. he's getting warm and we're getting him something to eat. Should, I mean will one goat be enough or should we take him to the cattle barn?" "You, you know about his needs?" "Yes he is safe, they are getting him some blood." "Sorry Jewel is worried. We've never been to your ranch or I would jump us out there. Can you give us directions?" "Yes," I told her how to find us. "Simon, it's alright. Your Momma is on her way," I told him. He seemed frightened of everyone, except for Fire and myself. It took nearly five hours for them to arrive. During which time we managed to get him warmed up and he'd fed from a goat regaining much of his color and strength. slowly he was learning to trust everyone. "If he's a jumper, why doesn't he just jump home?" asked Kairi. "Shhh, he's probably frightened and doesn't know anyplace here. Isn't that right?" Colene asked him. "Y, yes I, I don't even know how I got where you found me," he admitted. The sound of a truck pushing a blower plow reached us as they started up the drive. By the time it was in front of the house we knew it was his family by his growing excitement. Not just his mother Jewel, but Crystal, Yarrish, Disa, and Coo were with her. He rushed into her arms as we invited everyone inside. Disa, was Lycan and Coo looked to be Genefren but she wasn't emitting Pheromones. As she turned to watch the flames in the fireplace I saw it and heard the startled gasp from Midge, and Bounder. There at the base of her skull under the ponytail was the uplink scar. Before I could stop her Midge was out of the house running to the barn. A few moments later Teela was there with Hob, Meeka and Kimee. That they recognized Coo as one of their own was apparent. Coo's head came around instantly. "You are a Tank child, how did you come to be with," began Teela. "She is my daughter," Jewel was there instantly between them. "Momma, she just wants to know how I came to be your daughter. Not take me away from you." Coo reached up to take both their hands. She touched Jewel's hand and the young woman began to calm down. "I was orphaned when my families Transport was attacked by road bandits." She looked sad, "Th, the authorities put me in foster care. My Momma found me, she cared for me, looked after me when no one else would." Reaching out now Teela caressed her cheek, "We are happy for you Coo. And your parents would be proud of you and happy for you." "You really mean that?" asked Jewel. "Of course we mean it," said Hob. "And you are all welcome to visit any time we pass through." +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ The landscape as they Exited the portal was breath taking and beautiful beyond the wall of snow that lined both sides of the roadway. They could see the small mountain range in the distance as they headed for it. occasionally they would pass another vehicle that would flash greetings and safe travel wishes. They were following a Lyconian Rig and saw the Truck Stop, 'The Randy Wolf'. As they pulled off the trucks were greeted by the stops computer system as they registered their destinations. "Miss Brightfeather," began a beautiful Lycan on her forward screen. "I am Zasha Far Run, and we are happy to see you," she was greeted. "I'm happy to see you as well. How go things at the School?" she asked. "We are doing well, and anxious to see your Diner. But I'm afraid that most of the staff we promised is stuck waiting for you on Iridani," she was told by the Headmistress. "Oh that's no problem, we have a few temporary staff here filling in that are on their way to Iridani. Are we still scheduled to take the young ladies to Sauria for the first round of intergalactic competitions after the new year?" "Shayla, we have an inquiry from the palace," interrupted Road Runner. "Excuse me Miss Far Run, I have a call from the Palace," I told her. "That's alright, we'll catch up later." "Brightfeather's, Road Runner Diner," she answered. "Miss Brightfeather, please hold while we connect you with Her Majesty," said the young woman on screen. "Hello Shayla, Welcome to Lyconia." "Thank you Ma'am." "Please, I know you have to pass through the capitol on your way to the portal. Won't you please stop in for a visit while you wait for the storm to calm down?" ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ We were given a tour of the Castle, and the grounds, then invited to dinner. Queen Natani Caressed Momma Beverly's cheek, "I can see how much you love your Kittens." "I'm still learning how to be a Cougar, but I wouldn't trade them for anything in the world," said Momma. "Being a Cougar means Always learning new things every day. My own kittens never stop teaching me," she giggled. Turning to one she said, "Sheena here has come to me from a friend who passed away before she was old enough to go to the Academy." "Are you excited Sheena?" asked Beverly. She looked first at Natani then around the room at the other Cougars. Then in a low voice she said, "I'm supposed to choose which Cougar will foster me until I can go to the Academy as her Kitten." "Yes and you don't have to decide right now," assured Natani. "You know I would love to have you." "But my Momma promised to send me to the Earth Academy," she whined and a tear rolled slowly down her cheek. "Oh Sweetie," Beverly pulled her into her arms to comfort her realizing this Kittenette was even younger than she first thought. The collar around her neck was a simple lace trimmed satin choker. She could feel the girl trembling as she allowed herself to be held. "You'll like the Earth Academy," I told her with a warm smile. Now sniffling she pulled back. "I can't go there now," she looked around the room then fled. "Why couldn't she go to the Earth Academy?" asked Momma. "It is very expensive to send a Kitten there from across the stars. Most here do not have those kinds of funds. Those who do have already reached their allotted number of legal kittens," explained Queen Natani. Cougars were limited by Intergalactic Laws and Agreements to six Kittens at a time, with special allowances for eight if they had kittens enrolled in four year Universities after graduation. It was a means of preventing Cougars from Monopolizing Kittens or becoming like the Cougar Cristal who was in Prison now for forcing Girls into Kittenhood as sex slaves for her Brothels. The number included Kittenettes too young for one of the few Kitten Academies that were scattered through the stars. "Does no one want her Mistress Natani?" asked Priscilla. "Oh little Kitten, everyone here would love to have her, but none could afford to send her to Earth." "I would as her Queen send her to the Kitten shelter there if it were still there that is. But it has moved to Iridani." "What other options are there?" asked Beverly. "Well she is set on becoming a Kitten. Her cougar mother was an Earth born Kitten who came here after graduation. If she does not choose a Cougar soon I will be forced to send her to the Shelter on Iridani or into Foster Care. She's already run away from two other Foster Cougars when she discovered she wouldn't be sent to the Earth Academy." Queen Natani looked very sad then to Momma she said, "I am trying my best to live up to the promises Andrea made to her before she passed away. But you understand if she is set on becoming a Kitten she cannot be allowed to continue to refuse the protection of a Cougar." The other Cougars soon left taking their Kittens home. One of the Queens younger Kittens returned quickly after going to check on her. "Mistress, Sheena is not in her room, the Guardians say that she has left the Castle." Reaching out now Queen Natani caressed the air on the left side of her seat. "Shore, Please find her," she said. "Before one of those who just left finds her." only those in the room now knew there was an Adult Male Goth there. Then to Momma she said, "Those who were here are vexed that I am coddling her. But Andrea and I were roommates my last year at the Academy, Tarriana is inquiring to see if there are any Terrellian Cougars who can afford to send her there." Lotus was suddenly there next to Momma causing the Guardians to start in alarm. But Natani waved her hand in dismissal and they resumed their casual stances. "She has entered Road Runner," reported Lotus. Closing her eyes Natani silently recalled her bonded Goth. "Beverly, I have seen it in your eyes, and the eyes of your Kittens. I also know a good deal about you from my friend Erika Tyler." "When she is old enough I would be able to send her to the Academy. Then with a sly grin I added, And the Earth Kitten Shelter is very much still open. Mistress Mamie Tyler is running the school portion to help with their standard education, though she has renamed it more to hers and the Kittenettes like. It is now known as the 'Kitten Prep-School', and currently open to Kittens ages Seven through Thirteen. Or by Earth standards grades Two through Eight, since the Academy is open to those Ninth through twelfth." "But Erika and Marissa never said anything," "They were already long gone by the time Mistress Mamie took control and began making her own changes, I mean she is in charge of the schooling. Mistress Evelin sees to the needs of the Shelter Kittens and runs the shelter making sure they learn to work together the way they do in the Academy Dorms. The tuitions of non-shelter kittens helps pay the cost of taking in, educating and caring for the Shelter Kittens. it is no longer a donation dependent school, and Cougars don't have to worry about underage Kittens in a public school." Smiled Beverly. "And you would send Sheena there if, if I were to allow you to become her Cougar? You would use the funds left by her mother's Estate to ensure not only her Education but her Future?" "I would use only what I needed to make her dreams happen, the rest would be set aside for her future use." Assured Beverly. "And if for some reason she should choose not to go to the Academy, I would ensure that she graduates from Miss Dotty's Academy." Now the Queen looked at Priscilla and I. "And you two would welcome a little sister Kitten?" "Yes Ma'am," they answered anxiously. "Then perhaps you two should go convince her to come to your Momma. that you all may lay claim to each other," suggested the Queen with a twinkle in her eyes. The other Cougars would not be happy that Sheena was being adopted by an Earth Cougar. But they would be happy knowing that it was a free choice, and that Sheena would be loved. We were talking about the changes in Cougar Town, and at the Academy when Natira and another Lycan woman arrived. "Momma, I, I mean Your Majesty," she rushed over to kneel at her Queens feet. "Natira, I was afraid you were going to miss getting to see Miss Beverly and her Kittens," said the Queen. Then she pulled the other woman into a very affectionate kiss. "Dorri, Natira, this is Miss Beverly, and this other young woman is Miss Shayla Brightfeather who drives Road Runner." "Your Highness, the Kittens are here," announced one of the Guardians. Sheena walked hesitantly over in front of Natani and then side stepped a bit, her head turning slightly to look toward Beverly. When Beverly reached out her hand Sheena took hold of it then looked back at her Queen. "Is this your free choice Kitten?" "Y, yes Ma'am." No one paid attention as a Guardian stepped up behind Beverly and placed something in her hand from behind. "Please take it, you will need one anyway." Tears in her eyes now, her two older Kittens standing to each side of Sheena, she asked. "Will you give over your Will to me, trust in me to always guide and protect you. to teach you, and to always love you in these most trying times for young and growing Kitten?" "Yes Ma'am, I will give my love and trust, and accept your guidance and teachings as one of your Kittens and daughters," responded Sheena. Beverly hadn't looked at the collar she'd been given before she fastened it around Sheena's neck. Now for the first time she saw it. Hanging from the leash loop were two tags. The oldest one was inscribed with, 'Kitten 17'. The new one was inscribed with 'Sheena' on the front 'Mistress Nuri' on the back. Her hands shaking now Sheena started to remove the tags. "No Kitten," said Beverly. "They were your Mothers tags, she would want you to have them. You should always be proud to have been her daughter. But if you let me I will add a new tag so that everyone knows that I am responsible for you now." Sheena was in her arms in a second as she gathered her other two kittens into the hug. After a bit she finally realized that she really was going to get to go to Earth as her mother had promised her. While Sheena stayed at Beverly's side, Natira gave Darla and Priscilla a tour of the castle inviting them for a sleepover. When it was just Natani, Dorri, Beverly and Sheena sitting in front of the fireplace in the Queens private chamber Dorri opened a little chest on the coffee table. Beverly's eyes got huge seeing what she took out of it. "Nat, this calls for a celebration. It isn't every day we get to see dreams come true." She lit the little gem encrusted pipe and passed it to Natani who took a puff before passing it to Beverly. When Beverly had giggled and taken a puff Natani motioned toward Sheena. "Go ahead Kitten, this is part of your heritage. The partaking of 'Dream Weed' before a Journey of discovery." Already Beverly was feeling the effects and she'd only had one puff. But she felt so relaxed, so contented here with these three knowing that her other Kittens were close by and safe. They were soon joined by the Queens Kittens, but were content to sit and talk for hours as they got to know each other more freely without worrying what anyone else might think. "I remember the first time Erika shared Dream Weed with Tarri and I," Natani giggled. "Erika was so sure that we had never had any before. She was afraid we were going to get her caught. Of course we all got demerit spankings. But it was because she couldn't stop giggling, and then she tried to sneak into the Dining Hall to steal some ?clairs. Have you ever had ?clairs when you were stoned?" Dorri was giggling watching Beverly's look of disbelief. "Well it wasn't all Erika's Giggling that got us caught," Dorri said. "As I remember you were trying to show Tarriana and I how they got the cream filling into the middle when Mistress Tyrea walked in on us," she burst into a fit of giggles as a Guardian brought a tray of the pastries to them. "Oh, how are Miss Beverly's Kittens? are they finding everything alright?" asked Natani. The guardian whispered something to her then she grinned. "This I have to see," she stood up unsteady at first. holding her finger to her lips she motioned Beverly to follow. They found the three older girls sitting Knee to Knee in the center of Natira's huge bed in the lotus position. Holding hands, eyes closed totally naked, reciting the Second Sisterhood pledge. "I will stand by my sisters in time of need. I will cherish their friendship and guidance, seek their opinions and always strive to hold the secrets of our sisters no matter where they might be." "I will come to the call of the sisterhood. I will welcome my sisters into my home and into my heart." "I will not be afraid as long as I have my sisters around me, for we are a force of the universe around us." "We are Mothers and Daughters, Cougars and Kittens, and Sisters Always." Said the three older women as they sat down beside them. Sheena big eyed giggled seeing them there. "I know four Kittens who need to get some sleep," said Dorri. "Tomorrow is going to be a big day." "M, Momma you're, you're all stoned," giggled Darla. "Yes, and you were having a sisterhood meeting without us," grinned Natani. We ended up laying down on Natira's bed and fell asleep talking about different things. I'd never thought of a Queen being so normal, like a regular person. The next afternoon we left to finish our journey. Sheena was excited and Momma Beverly sat up front with her to let her watch her first Portal Jump. We were getting reports from Iridani and learned that the worst portion of the storm was in a fifty mile radius around the area of the schools. The snows were about two feet deep in the other winter regions but in that area they had reached four to six feet with upward of twelve foot drifts in some areas. Then we saw a news program with the reporter girl, Karen Tomahawk, whose last name was really Lighthorse. But her viewing public preferred Tomahawk, as it had been the first name she'd used as a reporter. She was showing people playing on snowmobiles and digging out paths to each other's homes. She showed the Centaurs and the Tyler Ranch, the Kitten Shelter. Scenes from each of the Academies ending with Miss Malissa's Academy, where she said she had a very special interview with someone who wished to address the public. We were about ten hours out from Iridani now and everyone was gathered in the diner to watch the interview. "Good evening Citizens of the Free Universes. I am here at Malissa's Academy in response to a request by the Astrid, the First Queen who has returned from the Earta Quadrant." The cameras followed her into the Auditorium where the bleachers were packed with Students and faculty. "Good evening your Majesty, I see you are recovering." "Yes Karen, and still alive thanks to Queen Gypsy who was there to fight alongside myself and all the others." "We were sorry to hear of your injuries, did the Loki get past your guardians?" asked Karen. I thought it was an odd question to ask even if it was one I'm sure a lot of people were wondering seeing how badly injured she'd been. "No Karen, as any true leader of her kind. We Queens Lead from the front lines. We do not simply send our subjects into battle, we lead them." "What of the Loki?" "The Loki are like those spoiled rulers who so often find themselves abandoned in their time of need. Their leaders sat back, content to let us hack our way to them before they tried to flee to safety. Once we knew where they were hiding myself and the other Queens simply Jumped into their midst. They no longer have a leadership, and those who either escaped or were elsewhere in hiding will continue to be hunted for their crimes." "But for now Stephanie Madison the new Commander of Star Command Bravo, is continuing to help direct recovery efforts on Earta Prime." She waved a feeler towards someone off to the side and the cameras focused on a new figure that was nearly transparent, "For those of you who have yet to meet her, I would like to introduce Gypsy, First Queen of the Translucent Hives of the unexplored regions. Her Home Quadrant is to be located on Earta Prime where she has vowed to help those people rebuild and recover." "In a few weeks the Road Builders will begin opening the Freeway Portals again to that Quadrant to allow easier access. I caution you all, we will not take kindly to anyone seeking to take advantage of those people who need so much in the way of assistance in rebuilding their home worlds. Think of how you would feel if someone did that to you, then do what is right and just." "Thank you Ma'am. I know you must be tired still. And may I say we are all so grateful that you are still with us." she turned next to Gypsy. "I think the Universes forgot that there were Translucent Phase Spiders. I admit that I myself had never heard of one before Queen Astrid announced that you had joined in the war." "Like the Red Queens, we chose to hide while we built strength. The Rogue who became First Queen had help in her attempts to exterminate us as a Species. But still we are peaceful until provoked or faced with the presence of Loki." "You were referred to by Queen Astrid as the First Queen of the Translucent Hives. How many hives follow you may I ask?" "Yes, there are Seventeen Hive Queens who follow me. But we do not seek to upset the balance. We have been wanderers and explorers we do not truly understand all the modern changes. Perhaps after the current council of Queens one of us will take a turn, but we would never seek to hold the title longer than the term agreed upon by the Queens council. But I would like to add this, while we hold our own council, and have a First Queen to lead us we will only submit our First Queen as a Member of the Council." "Ma'am, who is this at your side?" asked Karen. "This is my Granddaughter who will succeed her mother as Queen. In a few years I will be stepping aside as First Queen of the Translucent Hives, my daughter Pacer who is Queen of the newly established Earta Prime Hive will then take my place as First Queen of the Translucent Hives. This is how we have been existing for the last Millennium, Each hive Queen reigning for a century then retiring. It is why there were so many Queens to join the fight." She made a motion and everyone understood the interview was over as she faded from sight in front of the cameras. "Where did she go?" asked someone. It was the First Queens Daughter, Nessie who answered the question. "She has gone like all the rest to mourn those of her hives who have been lost in battle." "Miss Malissa we will return once they have been mourned and their spirits sent to rest." And like that all the Phase Spiders were gone. The rest of the trip was spent in quiet speculation. Would we be able to reach the Tyler Ranch? Sheena filled us in on what we hadn't known about the Phase Spiders. As a little sister she was totally awesome, teaching us new games and eager to learn ours as well. Momma Beverly began teaching her to read and write English, but it was more teaching her proper usage. Seeing our text books she was anxious to begin her schooling. She would lay on the bed between Priscilla and I, and ask questions, trying to help. "Miss Beverly, we are about to shoot the Iridani Portal," Shayla informed us. "Warrior is out front and we have a ten mile spacing in case we need to give the lead trucks time to clear the exit." Momma Beverly crawled to the middle of our big bed and sat cross legged holding Sheena in her lap as we crowded next to her watching the lead truck as it disappeared. "Come on ahead Shadow Lover, it's all clear on this side," came the call a few moments later. We were listening to the chatter between the trucks and heard, "Hello Iridani Convoy, do you hear us?" "We hear you, do you need assistance?" one of the Lycan trucks answered. "We are a convoy of three Tank transports. We are looking for one of our own who was last on I-5. But they didn't show up at their next stop over. would it be permissible for us to follow you to the truck stop and inquire if anyone has heard from them?" "Momma, those are the ones at Miss Erika's," gasped Priscilla. "You are most welcome to join us," answered Sophie Pierce from the big RV. "Miss Sophie, please tell them that the Orchid is at the Tyler Ranch riding out the storms until the roads can be cleared," Momma said. "We heard, thank you for your invitation. But are you sure it is ok with the planetary authorities if we proceed without a contract for services?" "Mirnetta? Is that you?" someone else interrupted. "Teela we were getting worried," answered the first woman. "You are more than welcome, you don't need a service contract to visit here. we have great news for everyone though." "What news?" "We have all been invited to call this planet home." I could almost hear the tears of joy in her voice as she told them. "You mean because your three youngest are in school there?" asked Mirnetta. "No, it's because they accept us as our own Race. The First Beings are officially listing Tanks as a Race with Iridani Five as our Home Planet." A very long silence followed. "Mirnetta? Are you alright?" "Oh, yes Teela. For a moment I thought you said Iridani Five has been listed as our home planet," answered the woman. "Listen, unless you want Star Hopper stranded in the snow you should wait for us at the truck stop. If we leave now we should be there by the time you arrive." We didn't hear the last of the conversation since we entered the exit and the blackout zone as they were finishing up. I couldn't believe the depth of the snow piled alongside the highway. The rest of the convoy was beginning to regroup again and the three Tank Transports were included in our bunch. "How far to the Truck Stop?" asked someone. "We are almost out of fuel. "Forest, why don't you pull in behind Road Runner. We'll run a train to conserve fuel." The Tanks tucked into the midst, and Sheena giggled. "Being in the middle they aren't burning any fuel." An hour and a half later we began breaking down the train so that we could pull off into the truck stop. Then we saw the snowmobiles racing alongside. "Yo, Brightfeather's, we got three transports that need an immediate refuel," called Warrior. "We'll have the braves standing by the pumps. Do they require anything special?" "Oh ummm, no we can run on almost anything but sludge." "Forest, you and the rest follow the tankers, they'll lead you to the pumps." "You have fuel tankers in your convoy?" we could hear the silent question, why didn't we just refuel them when they linked into the convoy? "Yes we're hauling internal combustion fuel called gasoline. It's a special order for Fender Skirts." Answered Miss Longstep. "Oh, uhh we can't run on that either." Road Runner pulled around to the side of the diner to park next to Eagle, Hawk and Night Flyer. I watched as three Avian children descended on Warrior and Shadow Lover, the drivers reaching up to be tackled to the snow. I was laughing watching them playing in the snow when a snowball hit the back of my neck splattering down my back. "Eeeeeyoww," I screeched turning to confront the thrower only to be seized in a bear hug by Hope, then Danielle, and then my Momma. They'd been with the people on the snowmobiles. I was crying, Momma was crying, Hope and everyone else was crying at seeing each other again. "Is it really true? We get to share this beautiful planet with these other people?" I heard someone ask. Turning I saw Tank children being welcomed by other children. "Aunt Mirnetta," "B, Bounder? Look at you, you're getting so pretty." The Tanks were really being welcomed and acted as if this was the first place they'd ever been made to feel like part of the community. "Beverly, who is this with you?" asked my Momma and Sister Hope at the same time. "Don't be shy Kitten, this is Miss Grace, your sister Darla's mother. Grace, Hope this is Sheena." Momma Beverly introduced her. Momma Grace was beside herself as she hugged the little Kittenette. Then as Hope got her turn Momma Grace asked, looking totally surprised. "Why didn't you tell me you were coming?" Momma Beverly chuckled then, "Grace Gladwell, do you really expect me to believe you had no idea?" "What, and ruin your surprise?" she answered. "I have your rooms set up. but of course this sweet little lady really is a surprise." "Grace, Beverly if you'll excuse we're going to try to make arrangements to get the horses out to the ranch," interrupted Miss Erika. "Hope you can stay with your Momma." "Cream," she hugged the Terrellian woman. "I trust they didn't give you any trouble?" "No Ma'am. I just wish I could make it all the way out to the ranch to deliver them," she answered. "Momma, the Herd is here to help," said Tuti. The horses were being unloaded into holding corrals, and not just the Centaurs but the Tribes as well were turning out to help each other move stock. "M, Momma, is that one really Mine?" asked Kairi. "Yes she is, would you like to ride her home? I bet she'd love to get to know you Kitten." They hugged and Samantha went with her sister to help get the horses settled down for the trail drive out to the Ranch. "Ok we'll drive them down the side of the freeway since there isn't any traffic scheduled for the next three hours," said Erika. "That will cut about six hours off their exposure time to the cold." "Red eagle, do you want to join us driving the herds out to the sheltered canyons." "Excuse me, it would be nothing for us to haul them to that point for you," stated Cream. Jake and the rest of the drivers agreed and began insisting. Those closest were soon separated out and began the trek to the Milk barns and stables closer in. An hour later as we unloaded the Horses I couldn't believe we had passed so close to the ranch. We were getting ready to start driving them onto the makeshift offramp, a slowly dropping gulley that was next to the road, when a big plow showed up and began blowing the snow off to the side. It was slow going following the blower plow as the snow got deeper. But at least the livestock and horses weren't having to break trail. As soon as the truck turned and started up the road towards town the horses and stock began following the cleared paths to the barns. Kairi and Samantha spent so much time riding around and I could tell by Miss Erika's reactions that Kairi was just as good as Samantha. "Kitten's you should get Her in the barn, so she doesn't catch cold during their cool down." Seeing my mother and sister again was like the best Christmas present ever. And then I saw the pin on mommas blouse at about the same time she began caressing the one on my own. "So you've joined the sisterhood now," she grinned. Lotus seemed content with wandering around getting to know the area. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Seeing my little sister again was really great. Aunt Bev was pretty awesome too. Then Momma said that she would understand if I wanted to spend the night at Momma's with them. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ The next week was like a blur of fun, especially since they had gone right from a string of snow days into their Christmas holidays. It was Christmas Eve before we knew it, and as then we heard the singing off in the distance. Curiously we stepped outside to see the Kittenettes as they came down the road on one those huge sleds pulled by a snowmobile. They were singing Christmas Carols going house to house. As they stood there on the sleds singing Sheena began to sing then we were all singing with them. it was contagious as the Centaurs joined in. And then Vet hitched our own sleds behind our Snowmobiles and we soon joined them as we headed for town. More people joined us as we passed. And then we stood all gathered around the Kitten Theater, Kittens, students, parents, teachers, Tribes, everyone who could made it to the center of town where the Kittenettes led the singing. It was almost Midnight when the sky lit up with fireworks. And then Darklight was there among us. I giggled as he began with a "Ho, Ho, Ho, Merry Christmas." Then Crista, his only daughter began to sing of love, joy, and the freedom to become one with the universes. It was so beautiful, her voice like sweet honey. Next came the unicorns, singing as they passed among us, hundreds of them. More than anyone had ever seen before. The fireworks had been a gift from the Bio-Ships, the Dragons had gifted us with song. The unicorns had passed among us, there song was one that healed those in need who heard it. And then Darklight shifted forms and now sat at the foot of the steps to the Kitten Theater, a red suit, fat belly and a long flowing white beard. The Phase Spider Queens draped in green and red shawls stood by as Santa's helpers. He held a hand to the first child and she sat on his knee. "Tell me child of Iridani, What one thing would you like?" She whispered into his ear and he smiled, "We shall see. But you need to Sleep, and wait for your parents to wake up." on and on it went as one child after the next approached and sat on his lap. It didn't matter who, or from what race, he welcomed them all. And then when the last child had set on his lap he beckoned to the Tank children. "Come, tell me your wishes. You are as children to me as well." I'd felt silly as I sat on his knee and whispered into his ear, "I want a Bratz Yasmin Doll for my Sister Hope, a Cloe for my sister Priscilla, and a Wolf Sasha for my sister Sheena." "And for yourself?" he'd asked me. "I have all of them and my Momma's and my friends, that's all I need." I'd answered. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ We were dead on our feet when we finally made it home, everyone just falling into bed asleep in minutes. The real miracle was what we found the next morning. I woke up to excited squeals, to find my sisters holding their new Bratz Dolls. "Darla Look this one has your name on it," Sheena was holding out a Jade doll, a pretty Kitten collar around her neck. I knew those hadn't been there when we'd fallen asleep, ours weren't the only presents either. All around us people were finding little things, gifts they'd wanted but had foregone to buy gifts for others around them. "Momma, Did Santa really come and visit us last night?" asked Sheena. She was holding an Earth Kitten Prep-school ID tag for her collar. The Tanks were surprised to find the things they'd wanted, were there as well. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ In the home of the Dragon Darklight, Ariella smiled at the rest. "I think that was really nice, giving the children a belief in Santa Clause," said Astrid as she tipped her goblet to the dragon. "Yes but you and yours are the real heroes, you were the ones to Acquire and deliver the gifts they asked for," he replied. "But there was one there I think who was given an even bigger gift by Ariella." "Her motherhood of Sheena is no longer a question. We all touched both minds. She is the spirit of the child who was lost so long ago. I just made sure that she contains a DNA trace," admitted the Unicorn. It was a manipulation that only she could do. But it had required a confirmation from all the first beings to allow her to do it. it was as if Beverly had been guided across the stars to the child who held the spirit of her lost child. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Beverly slowly opened the card that had held her name. It was a simple statement, "The spirits are now joined together." It was the announcement of the still born birth of her daughter Sheena, whom her husband had killed when he'd beaten her and kicked her in the stomach before she'd moved to Azalia Michigan.