Beast Wars Knights: (Un-) Welcomed Company

Terrorsaur yawned and stretched, enjoying the warm afternoon sun. He felt like taking a nap. All was quiet at Castle Migrazor for once. Prince Megatron had retired to his throne room to think, so Terrorsaur couldn’t bother him without risking his neck. The Dark Prince had ordered no interruptions. The other Predacons were busy with their various tasks, and the Red Knight’s was sentry duty this afternoon. With no one around, it certainly was a good time to take a nap.

He settled back against the castle’s cool grey stone, letting the breeze tease his hair as he began to relax. Terrorsaur felt himself slipping into peaceful slumber when a flutter of wings beckoned him awake once more. Opening his eyes he saw a messenger pigeon sitting on the rampart’s edge. It was carrying a rolled up parchment.

Grumbling about having lost a good nap to a stupid bird, Terrorsaur took the letter from the pigeon and released it back into the clear blue sky. He watched it disappear before turning his attention to the letter. Its distinctive purple seal made him start. Oh, Prince Megatron will be thrilled to hear this news…. The look on his face will be priceless, Terrorsaur thought with a grin. It always was when he heard she was coming.

Sitting beside his master’s throne, a large wolf named Bloodbane enjoyed having his ears scratched. While the Dark Prince pondered deeply about many things, he absentmindedly stroked Bloodbane between his ears and down his neck. One might have thought he was a dog by the way he wagged his tail. The wolf’s sharp ears picked up hurried footsteps pounding the floor just before the large chamber door was flung open.

“Prince Megatron!”

Terrorsaur entered quickly, his chest heaving from running halfway across the castle. Whatever the risk, he wanted to notify his leader of the news as quickly as possible. Instantly Bloodbane’s tame behavior shifted. He uttered a low warning growl as his master shook himself from his thoughts.

“Terrorsaur! Did I not say that I was not to be disturbed?!” Megatron snapped harshly. He gazed down at his growling wolf. “Perhaps I should let Bloodbane have one of your limbs for disobeying my words…?”

The Red Knight gulped and shook his head furiously.

“N-no sir, this is important. I would not have entered here if it was not,” he said slowly. Megatron saw the parchment in Terrorsaur’s hand.

“What is it? Has King Optimus offered surrender?”

“No sir, it is nothing like that. It’s bad. For you.”

“WHAT?!”

“This is a letter from my sister.”

“Oh…” Megatron sat backwards heavily. “What… does it say, do I dare ask?”

Terrorsaur broke the seal and read aloud:

“To those at Castle Migrazor: I am coming to visit you for a few days within two sunrises of your receiving this letter. I look forward to seeing all of you! Oh, and please do not deny me entrance as you did last time. It made getting into the castle rather difficult. Prince Megatron, I know you gave that order. At least I am warning you of my arrival this time. Until we see one another, Miss Starath.”

Bloodbane whined as Megatron nearly slid right out of this throne in despair. He caught himself in time to haul himself upright. Terrorsaur watched his leader with a smirk across his face. His leader’s reactions were always fun to witness.

“Save me…” Megatron moaned softly. This WAS bad news for him. Starath liked him, and he knew it. So did everyone else. If only she didn’t make it so obvious! Her happy and bubbly presence always made him feel not quite as dark and evil as he should feel, too. It was very unnerving.

“What shall we do, my Prince?” asked Terrorsaur as politely as he could manage without laughing. Megatron drew in a deep breath.

“Prepare the castle. We will…. welcome her in. Because, after all,” he almost regretted saying it, “she is a Predacon.”

-- -- -- -- -- -- --

Humming softly to himself as he waxed his bowstring, Rattrap gazed out across the plain laid out before Castle Axalone. The long flowing grass whipped about in the wind, acting as a green sea. Far in the distance he spotted a horse riding northwards to Castle Migrazor. Rattrap’s sharp eyes picked out the rider’s purple tunic atop the golden Palomino. He recognized who it was with a small giggle.

“Well, with her about we certainly won’t have to deal with Megatron for awhile.”

He cheerfully continued to wax his bowstring.

-- -- -- -- -- -- --

Castle Migrazor’s dark grey stone and black pennants waving in the wind gave the stronghold a forlorn feeling to those who rode to its gates. In the center of the drawbridge the Predacon symbol stood out in angry red. But despite the doom and dreariness Miss Starath smiled. She had finally arrived. She waved to the lone figure standing on top of the castle wall.

“Greetings brother! May I come in?”

Terrorsaur laughed and called down, “You may, but Prince Megatron would have it otherwise!”

Starath giggled as the thick chains of the drawbridge began clanking and moaning as they lowered the drawbridge slowly. She stroked her Palomino.

“Soon you’ll get a good rest, Blaze.”

The horse snorted and stamped her feet impatiently. With a dull thud the drawbridge touched the ground, and the heavy iron portcullis started to rise. Within the castle walls large gears and chains strained under its weight. Then finally twin doors inside swung open. Gently Starath nudged Blaze to go inside, and Castle Migrazor quickly closed itself behind her.

Terrorsaur stood waiting in the outer courtyard near the horse stables as his sister rode in. She didn’t allow him to help her down, but instead she swiftly dismounted from Blaze. Terrorsaur prepared himself for what would come.

“Brother!” Starath gave him a big hug. “How are things? Are you faring well?”

“Well enough,” he gasped, “Unless you break my ribs!”

“Oh!” She let go. “My apologies.”

The two siblings talked for a moment, enjoying each other’s company. They shared similar features as siblings do—Both with reddish hair, bright eyes and freckles. Their clothing was even similar because Starath had refused to wear a dress since the day she could say “no.” Her short-sleeved purple tunic was her trademark, just as Terrorsaur’s red tunic was his.

Waspinator appeared out of the stables wiping his hands on a rag. He joined Starath and Terrorsaur.

“Mizz Zztarath, would you like me to take in Blaze?” he asked. She smiled at him.

“Of course. That’s your job. You do so well with the horses. I know Blaze will be in good hands with you, Waspinator.”

His face flushed red, and he unconsciously began to ring the cloth in his hands as he shuffled his feet.

“Your commentzz are much appreciated, Mizz Zztarath.”

She handed him the reins to Blaze and Waspinator led the horse away to the stables. Terrorsaur watched him go and turned to his sister.

“Well, I suppose you want to speak to Prince Megatron now.”

Starath’s smile grew wider as she skipped to the doors that led to the second courtyard.

“Oh yes! I can’t wait to see how he is!”

The Red Knight followed her through the inner courtyard and into the throne room. He chuckled softly.

“He’s probably frantically searching for a hiding place right about now.”

With curiosity Bloodbane watched his master pace about the throne room. He was talking, but the wolf knew he wasn’t talking to him, because the words “kill” and “food” weren’t being said. Who was Prince Megatron talking to? The wolf put his head between his paws and closed his eyes. It was too much of a mystery.

“By the Matrix, the drawbridge has just been lowered! She’s here! Primus save me! I can fight battles, win victories—sometimes—but I cannot deal with a young woman! This is pathetic! Gah….” Megatron stopped, staring long and hard at his throne.

“Nowhere to hide…. she knows all my places by now…. I’ll just have to sit down and face her. Calmness, calmness, yes….”

He sat down, nervously glancing at Bloodbane.

“And you! Even you can’t do anything! You are a savage wolf, barely tamed by my own hands. You would attack anyone in this castle if I were not your master. And yet you become a puppy when she is about.” He shook his head. “I suppose I shall never understand….”

With an uninterested grunt Bloodbane rolled over and went to sleep. Megatron sighed.

“Thanks for the support.”

Bloodbane didn’t sleep long, however. He snapped upright with a happy bark. The throne doors opened and Starath entered with Terrorsaur. The wolf jumped up and ran to her, furiously wagging his tail. She sat down and held out her arms.

“Bane! Hello ‘Bane! How are you? Oh you’re such a good wolf! Yes you are!” She hugged him tight. His nose wrinkled as he began sniffing her pockets. Starath laughed.

“Oh! You’re already looking for your treat? Where is it boy, where is it??”

Easily he found it in her tunic pocket. He whimpered. Starath pulled out a large piece of dried beef.

“Good boy! Here you go!”

Bloodbane greedily gobbled it up and licked her hands. As Starath approached Prince Megatron’s throne, he growled at Terrorsaur when he got too close. The Red Knight gulped and kept his distance from the big wolf.

Starath respectfully kneeled before Prince Megatron at his throne. Keeping his inner turmoil hidden, he calmly addressed her.

“Arise Miss Starath. How good to see you again. How are things in Ficwritersland?”

She cheerfully smiled as she bounced upright. “Everything is fine. Lady Sapphire is ruling the land well and our kingdom is always prosperous. Further south Lord Skyfire is doing well too. How are things here, my Prince? I haven’t seen Tarantulas or Scorponok yet, are they working in secret again?”

“Tarantulas was slain in battle a sennight ago,” Megatron said softly, “And Scorponok has perished of a deadly disease.”

All color drained from Starath’s face. Her enthusiasm fell.

“Oh… I’m sorry to hear that… They were good fighters and friends. I… I’ll miss them.”

“We all do,” Terrorsaur told her.

An uncomfortable silence blanketed the chamber until Prince Megatron cleared his throat and broke it.

“Remind me, how long are you planning on staying here, Miss Starath?”

Before looking up she blinked back tears, then smiled.

“For no more than a few days. Enough time to clean this place up and have some fun.”

Megatron groaned inwardly. Every time she was here she HAD to clean the castle. Starath shared the same opinion as her brother— just because they were the “bad guys” did that mean their castle had to be dark and dirty. The only good part of that was she would take over cooking duty, giving everyone relief from Inferno’s menu of burnt everything. And what she meant by “fun”… Megatron mentally groaned once more. Starath loved combat training. She was good enough to make him look like a fool, and probably would— again. Beside him on the floor, Bloodbane perked up. He recognized the word “fun” and barked sharply. Starath laughed.

“Yes, I’ll play with you too, Bloodbane.”

He wagged his tail happily. The Dark Prince glared down at his pet wolf.

“See? You’re a puppy. Have you no pride?”

Terrorsaur and Starath eyed him curiously. He sighed.

“Nevermind, you two.”

“Oh….” Starath nodded slowly, suddenly running forward, embracing Megatron in a big hug.

“I’m so glad to see you again!” she cried. Then she let go, skipping out of the throne room. Terrorsaur stood with an amused grin as Prince Megatron dreamily watched her go. He turned to leave as well.

“Who is the puppy?” The Red Knight mockingly asked under his breath.

Megatron’s low voice growled after him.

“I’ll show you just how much of a puppy I am NOT, Terrorsaur!”

With a startled yelp he bolted from the room.

As always, things became interesting while Starath was around. Lining some dark halls suits of armor stood as silent ghosts, watching those who passed by them. Usually they were dull and filthy, but a day after her arrival each suit was shined and polished. Maybe it isn’t so bad to have her clean after all, thought Prince Megatron as he strolled the halls lit by new brightly flaming torches. Walking by them he noted the new positions each suit stood in as well. They posed in at-attention stances in many ways, by offering arms, saluting, and wielding various weapons. However Starath must have had a flash of creativity, because other suits of armor stood differently. Instead of a sword and shield, one held a mop and bucket. Another wore a chef’s hat. And yet another apparently decided to become a pirate, complete with and eye patch, bandana and parrot— a metal one of course, to match its owner.

Continuing down the halls the Dark Prince sighed with relief when the suits of armor returned to more traditional poses. But…. Was that one suit picking its nose? Megatron blinked and looked again. It was.

“I shall certainly have to talk to her about that one….”

He made his way outside into the courtyard where he found Starath searching through a thicket of bushes.

“Where did you go?” She asked the bush in a sing-song tone, “Come on out now!”

Almost dreading the answer, Prince Megatron demanded,

“Miss Starath, what ARE you doing…?”

Looking up at him she smiled excitedly. “There’s a cat in here! I’m trying to lure her out!” She returned to talking to the bush. “Meow, meow, meow! Come on out, nobody will hurt you!”

A cat. Alright, that was a reasonable explanation for talking to a bush…. Megatron cleared his throat to get her attention again.

“About those suits of armor, Miss Starath—“

“Do you like them?” she asked, interrupting him.

“Yes, they’re very nice—“

“Do you like Bill?”

“Bill?” he repeated.

“Uh-huh. He’s the pirate.”

“You named the….? Nevermind. Yes, Bill is… interesting. However there’s one whose position isn’t very… um, knight-like.”

Starath thought for a moment.

“Oh, you mean Sam. Yeah, I know. He’s just weird. It’s like he expects to find something in there. Ah! There you are!”

Reaching carefully into the thorny shrub, Starath pulled out a small orange cat. She cuddled it to her chest and kissed its forehead.

“Oh, aren’t you precious!”

Standing up, Starath held the cat out so they could talk.

“You know, you didn’t have to follow me all the way out here.”

“Meow,” said the cat.

“Aww, she says hello Megatron!” Starath squeaked with delight and held the cat up to his face. “Say hello back!”

“Umm…. Hello,” The Prince looked over his shoulder to make sure no one else saw him talking to the cat. “It… followed you here?” he asked cautiously.

“’It” is a her, Megs. Want to see how I know?”

“NO!” He answered quickly.

“Meow,” said the cat.

“Yeah I know,” Starath agreed, hugging the orange bundle to her shoulder, “He does get testy sometimes.”

“Miss Starath….” Prince Megatron ground his teeth together and counted to ten before regaining some patience. “It… her…. Followed you here?”

“Yep! From a town I stopped in not far away. I think she likes me.”

“Joy,” he grumbled dryly.

The cat suddenly wriggled out of Starath’s grasp and jumped lightly onto Megatron’s broad shoulder. She sat down and looked at him with intelligent green eyes.

“Meow,” she said, rubbing her head on his cheek.

Starath bounced with glee. “Oooooh! Megatron, she likes you! You should keep her!”

“I can’t!” he protested, attempting to pick the cat up off his shoulder. Sharp little claws dug into his black tunic. She wouldn’t let go. “I own a wolf,” he said with annoyance, “He’ll eat her. You can take her home with you when you go.”

Starath shook her head sadly. “I can’t. I already have three cats, a dog, a toad and a spider on my windowsill. They get into enough trouble. Megatron, she likes you, you should keep her!”

“But I….. Oh come on, let go!” He was talking to Starath and the cat at the same time, “I don’t want—“

His objection was cut off when the orange feline jumped into his arms.

“See, Megatron?” Starath pleaded.

“But Bloodbane might—“

“Oh that’s right!”

“What?”

“We have to name her!”

This conversation was becoming hard to follow. Megatron vaguely remembered wanting to talk about the slightly offending armor, but instead they’d talked about Bill the pirate, the cat in the bush, whether the cat was a boy or girl, saying that he didn’t want to keep her… And now, what they would name her. He sighed. This is Miss Starath for you…. Glancing down at the cat’s striped orange fur, he thought of a name. Something vicious and mean-sounding, maybe…. But Starath had other ideas.

“Fluffy… Bubbles…. Rusty… Oreo… Stripes…”

Stripes. For some reason that name stood out in Megatron’s mind. It was too normal.

“Speckles.” He announced.

Starath blinked. “But she doesn’t have spots.”

Grinning, Megatron playfully demanded, “So?”

She smiled back.

“Whatever you want, you’re the Prince. Did you hear that, Speckles? That’s your new name!”

The newly named feline settled herself into Megatron’s arms and purred.

“Yay!” Starath danced with triumph. “You have a new pet, Megs!” She stopped for a moment, noting the sun’s low position in the cloudy sky.

“I’d better go help Inferno with supper. See you in the evening!”

Waving goodbye she disappeared into the castle.

Prince Megatron watched her go, then shook himself as if coming out of a trance. He was standing in the courtyard. Alone. With an orange cat in his arms. A cat, that for some reason, he had named Speckles. ……WHY?

“I don’t know how she does it. I really don’t. Why don’t I act like myself when she’s around?” Having no one else to answer his question, he held up Speckles. “Do you know?”

“Meow,” she told him simply.

-- -- -- -- -- -- --

Swirling with clouds, the sky’s horizon became ruby red as the sun lowered itself to sleep, mixing magenta, soft orange, and pale blue into the pallet of the sky. In the dimming light Cheetor squinted to see the distant road that passed by the Axalone from his perch on the castle wall. Its dusty path remained empty, as it had been for days. The Golden Squire sighed, never taking his eyes off the road.

“Cousin, where are you?” he asked, the wind carrying his whispered words away. It whistled through his blonde hair as it went by.

Cheetor was so focused on watching the road that he didn’t hear Rattrap coming up the stone stairs.

“Hey kid,” he tapped him on his shoulder.

“Hmm?” he blinked, smiling when he saw his friend. “Oh, it’s just you.” He returned his gaze to the road.

“Rhinox says it’s almost suppertime, so you’d better come down from here. Rest your eyes a bit. It’s getting too dark to see if your cousin’s coming anyway,” Rattrap grinned. “If he does come tonight, he’ll knock.”

Cheetor laughed. “You’re right, my friend. Silverbolt isn’t supposed to come for a while now anyway. I guess I’m a little eager. But are you sure we can leave the castle walls without posting another sentry?”

“Ol’ Prince Megs is dealing with Miss Starath, so don’t worry about it,” Rattrap assured him. “And besides, Dinobot will be up here while we eat. If we don’t guard the walls, he will.”

Cheetor let out a long sigh. “Alright, if you say so. But you can bet I’m going to be watching every day for Silverbolt’s arrival.”

With that the two friends disappeared down the stairs to eat supper with the other Maximals.

-- -- -- -- -- -- --

Over the next few days, Prince Megatron learned three things about his new pet cat Speckles:

She liked to sleep on his throne only when he wanted to sit in it.

She liked to bother Bloodbane all the time, so they always fought.

….And somehow she usually won against the large wolf.

“Am I the only one with the pounding hammers in my head?” He asked one morning as Bloodbane chased Speckles around the throne room, and then Speckles chased Bloodbane back. Grabbing his heavy purple cloak, Megatron wrapped it around his head to block out the continuous barking and hissing. It didn’t work.

“That’s IT!!” He thundered, startling the pursuing pets. “Both of you, OUT! NOW!!”

Whimpering, Bloodbane slinked out the throne doors while Speckles silently followed.

Later they fell asleep together under the shade of a large tree, exhausted from their running about.

That afternoon (after a much needed nap) Megatron strolled out into the courtyard to the large grassy area next to the artillery shed. There he watched the sword match taking place. While Starath stayed at Castle Migrazor, she gave each of the Predacons a training session on using their swords. At the moment she was trying to train Waspinator. Inferno, Black Arachnia and Terrorsaur cheered him on.

“Come on kid, you can do it!” Shouted Terrorsaur.

“Don’t let her disarm you!” Cried Black Arachnia.

“Stand firm, soldier! You’re giving up too much ground!” Scolded Inferno.

With a heavy thud their wooden training swords locked together. Waspinator stumbled under Starath’s strong thrust.

“Counterbalance your weight,” she advised, “If you don’t I’ll push you right down!”

“….Trying to…” he mumbled through gritted teeth. “Yah!” He shoved upwards with a burst of energy, throwing Starath’s sword from his. But before he could swing back to hit her in the stomach her wooden blade swiftly descended and struck his shoulder. Waspinator fell hard to the ground, his sword flying away from his suddenly numb fingers.

Panting heavily, Starath wiped her forehead with the back of her hand, then offered it to help him up.

“I’ve warned you about doing that,” she said, “It leaves you completely open everywhere. Had I been using a real sword I could have beheaded you, understand?”

Waspinator hung his head in defeat, rubbing his sore arm. “Yezz.”

Starath’s serious expression disappeared as she smiled, hugging the young man.

“Don’t worry about it. At least you lasted longer against me today than you have in the past. You’re getting stronger.”

Brushing shaggy brown hair out of his eyes, he grinned slightly.

“Yezz, yezz, you’re right, Mizz Zztarath. If you would excuzze me, I have to go tend to our horzzezzz now.”

“Alright.” Starath let him go, then spotted Prince Megatron standing under a tree.

“Hey Megs, wanna come fight?”

Terrorsaur and Black Arachnia snickered to each other. No one was supposed to call the Dark Prince “Megs”. They caught his glare and immediately tried to stifle their laughter, but failed miserably. Inferno noticed his leader for the first time and snapped to attention, sharply telling Starath,

“You should address the Royalty correctly, soldier! It is Dark Prince Megatron to you!”

“I know, I know,” Starath rolled her eyes impatiently. “Sorry, Prince Megatron….”

“It is DARK Prince Meg—“

“Inferno, enough!” ordered his leader.

He stopped, bowing low. “As you command, Royalty.”

Starath went to a water barrel and drank from a deep tin cup. Turning back to Megatron, she challenged him again. “Do you want to fight?”

He didn’t want to. Oh no no. He hadn’t beaten her yet. But if he declined, his watching troops (except Inferno) would think he was a coward. And yet, if he accepted, and lost, his observing soldiers (with the exception of Inferno again) would think he was weak. What a choice……

“Come on Megatron, it’s just for fun. Back in Ficwritersland my friends Nurannoniel, Sinead, Varyn and I train all the time. They can beat me. Maybe you can too.”

Yes, but from what I’ve heard, thought the Prince, those three are good sword wielders themselves… I guess I DO need the practice though, and maybe I’ll get lucky and win… No one else here can put up a decent fight against me anyway…

“Alright,” Prince Megatron stepped forward, “I accept.”

The sun’s glaring rays beat down upon the earth, warming Megatron’s back as he left the shade of the tree. Sweat from the heat beaded on his face. He was getting hot already. Without a second thought he stopped and took off his black tunic.

“Aw sheesh, that is SO not fair,” Starath complained, then hid her blushing face when she saw his bare chest, “Girls can’t take off their tunics when we’re hot, so you guys shouldn’t either and be just as miserable as us.”

Megatron grinned faintly, sensing the other reason of her complaint even though she tried to hide it. He selected a heavy wooden sword from the rack before standing opposite of her on the grassy courtyard. He took his stance.

“Whenever you’re ready, Starath.”

Her childish innocence faded as she said,

“I’m ready for you. You’d better be ready for me.”

Silence laid its blanket across the courtyard. Birds became quiet. The wind held its breath. Leaves hanging from trees did not stir. Inferno, Black Arachnia and Terrorsaur watched the two fighters intently. Waspinator appeared from the stables, leaving his work to see the duel as well. Neither combatant moved. They stood rigid in their poses, waiting for the brief moment when the guard was let down. Starath blinked a moment too long.

Megatron charged.

She stepped to one side at the very last second. He nearly fell on his face. Spinning around, his sword struck hers, showering them both with wooden shards. They parted, charging again. Wood slapped against wood as they hit and blocked, searching for an opening. Stinging perspiration dripped into Megatron’s clear blue eyes and soaked his thick black hair. He ignored the burning salt as the sweat drops continued to fall across his face. He fought hard, yet with control, timing each thrust and predicting each counter. Confidence soared through his mind. Just a little longer, and she’ll be caught off guard. I just know it! Then I will win! The thought of victory drove him to double his efforts. I will WIN!

Starath never stayed in one place for long. She attacked from the front. Then jumped to attack the side. And then charged from the back. It used precious energy, but if she kept moving her unpredictable moves would pay off. However she was no fool. Prince Megatron was obviously larger and more powerful, so he could fight longer— and he could strike heavily if she wore herself out. He would win then. That won’t happen!

“What won’t, Miss Starath?” Megatron asked casually in the midst of their battle. She had spoken aloud without realizing it.

“You will not win.” She said firmly.

He laughed. “We shall see, my dear!”

The sun continued shining mercilessly down on the two fighters. The heavy silence no longer existed; the Predacons cheered them on over the loud cracks of the striking swords.

“Go Sis, go!!” cried Terrorsaur.

“Show him females can fight too!” yelled Black Arachnia.

“Keep it up, Mizz Ztarath!” encouraged Waspinator.

“Victory for the Royalty!” ever-loyal Inferno chanted, “For the Royalty!!”

Interested in the excitement, Bloodbane and Speckles joined the sidelines with ears pricked forward and all attention fixed on the battle. Bloodbane watched his master proudly, his tail wagging furiously. He looked down at Speckles with an _expression that said, “My Master will win!”

Speckles eyed him critically, her tail flipping side to side in reply: “We’ll see about that, Wolfie.”

The duel stretched on until both fighters showed signs of weariness. So far, it seemed to be a draw. But neither fighter would accept that outcome. There could only be one winner. And both intended to win. Starath’s strategy was beginning to take its toll. She could not continue moving all the time for much longer. Megatron countered her no matter where she struck. He hadn’t made a mistake yet. But she had to keep moving. If he caught her standing still for a moment she would be done. The Dark Prince couldn’t help smiling as he came across the same thought. He could see his opponent’s fatigue. He would easily out-last her.

They locked together and the sword fight became part shoving match. Neither would give in. Megatron used his greater weight and strength to his advantage. There was little Starath could do against it. Except…. She suddenly snapped sideways, causing him to stumble forwards. She spun around to strike, but he had already recovered and was prepared for her. His wooden sword came down with a tremendous crash, shattering Starath’s sword in two.

She stared at her halved sword handle in disbelief, stepping back from the sword point at her throat. Megatron grinned triumphantly.

“Got you,” he said.

Starath gulped, breathing hard. Then dove to the ground, rolled, and grabbed the other half of her sword. But again Megatron’s sword point found her.

“What do you think you’re doing?!” he demanded angrily. “You have lost!”

“Um….” She thought fast. “I think I’ll do this!”

With a sword half in each hand she quickly spun to his side, hammering both pieces onto his wrist. With a painful yell Megatron’s sword went flying from his shocked hand. Starath dropped the worthless pieces, grabbed the sword in midair, and held Megatron at sword point with his own weapon.

“No, I got you.”

-- -- -- -- -- -- --

Waspinator steadily lead Blaze out of the horse stables, tugging gently on her reigns. The Palomino neighed softly and bumped him with her head. He laughed, scratching her behind the ears.

“Thank you, Blazze. I’ll mizz you too. But you have to take Mizz Ztarath home now.”

Waspinator walked Blaze to where Starath and Prince Megatron stood on the pebbled path leading to the main gates. Bloodbane and Speckles joined them. The large wolf instantly had Starath on the ground, covering her with huge wet licks.

“Aaaahh! Down boy, down! I’ll be back someday, but I may not be if you lick me to death!”

Reluctantly he let her get up with a low howl.

“I’ll be back, don’t worry.” She bent down to hug his gray furred neck. “Promise.”

“Maaarow!” Speckles demanded attention by jumping onto Starath’s shoulders. “Meow meow meow!”

“No, of course I didn’t forget you. See you next time, pussycat. Stay out of trouble and watch Megatron for me, alright?”

“Meow!” said Speckles as she jumped down.

“Hey Sis!” Terrorsaur appeared out of the castle. “Don’t forget to say good bye to me!”

“Terri!” Starath embraced her older brother with a warm hug. “Now YOU just make sure to stay out of trouble.”

“I’ll try, Sis. No guarantees. Take care of yourself.”

“I will.” She assured him. Beside them Blaze neighed, stamping her feet.

“Blazze izz ready to go, Mizz Ztarath.” Said Waspinator, “You shouldn’t keep her waiting.”

“Thank you for taking care of her Waspy.” She gave the small man a hug. “You’re right.” She turned shyly to Megatron. Neither noticed when Terrorsaur, Waspinator and the two pets disappeared.

“Well, it’s been fun.” She said quietly, “It always is here.”

“You may come back whenever you wish,” said Prince Megatron, “It’s always nice to have you here.”

“Really?”

“Of course. It’s…. a little break from the normal occurrences around here. A welcome break.”

“Even when I do weird things?”

He chuckled deeply. “That’s…. just you, Miss Starath.”

Shuffling her feet, she blushed. “Yes, I know. That was a good match we had, too.”

“It most certainly was. But I’ll win next time.”

“You always say that, Megatron.”

“Yes, and maybe if I say it enough times it’ll come true. One can hope.”

“Someday.” Having run out of things to talk about, Starath had to say, “Well, I’d better go now.” Leaning up, she kissed his cheek. “Good bye.”

Startled, Prince Megatron felt his face grow warm.

“Until next time.” He said, grinning.

Megatron helped Starath into Blaze’s saddle as the twin inner doors of Migrazor opened, the heavy iron portcullis clanking upwards into the castle walls. The drawbridge lowered. Their gazes lingered together for a long moment until Starath turned her horse away to the gate.

“Alright Blaze, let’s go home!”

Hooves thundered across the drawbridge, swiftly carrying her out of sight.

Dark Prince Megatron watched her go before walking back into the castle, rubbing his cheek. He couldn’t help smiling. Maybe… maybe it wasn’t so bad to have her here after all.