Chrychaesa waited for her mother to appear from the barn. Ever since what she had been through with Macavity, her parents had let her live a little. They now let guy cats around with girl cats as long as they are her friends. She was grateful in fact for that privilege.
"Mother? Demeter wants me to stay with her tonight, may I?"
"Of course dear, just please try to stay only tonight, nothing like last time which ended up to be a week."
"I promise Mother." She scampered over to the Jellicle junkyard where she saw Demeter lying in the washer. She looked relaxed and calm.
"Hey there Demeter, how are you?"
"I'm OK I guess. I'm just really tired."
"You don't look to good."
"I'm OK really, I am just tired."
"OK I believe you. Oh my goodness gracious me." Chryssie said when she had started to stretch. A paw ran down her back in a pressurized stroke. She turned and saw Rum Tum Tugger grinning at her.
"Hi there Chryssie girl."
"Hi there Tugger, what are you doing here? I thought it was for Demeter and Me."
"No, we get together sometimes, Demeter just invited you to come." Chryssie turned and silently questioned Demeter, who nodded an affirmative.
"See, well now proves that Old Tugger can be trusted."
"I've always trusted you."
"Yeah I know it just seemed to be an appropriate thing to say."
"Oh I get you."
"Right." She walked with Tugger when Bombalurina joined Demeter. He led her to a hillside where she could get a glimpse of the lake and the moonlight.
"What are you staring at?"
"Oh just thinking."
"What about?"
"How beautiful you are in the moonlight."
"Well thank you..."
"Hello Chryssie." A voice she knew all too well said from behind. She could just sense something different in his voice as he greeted her. It was irritable in a way.
"Hello Munkustrap." she said without turning around.
"Demeter would like to talk to you."
"Oh OK, I'll talk with you later OK Tugger?"
"Sure thing, you know where I am." Munkustrap walked with her. He said
"Don't you think that Tugger is a little old for you?"
"What do you mean 'old for me?' I haven't the slightest idea what you are talking about. What in the Heaviside are you going on about?"
"Never mind." Demeter was talking and laughing with Bombalurina. She looked up and saw Munkustrap and Chryssie standing over her. "What's the matter you guys?"
"Didn't you want to talk with me?"
"No should I? I mean it's always nice to talk to you but I didn't call for you."
"Munkustrap, why'd you take me away from Tugger then?"
"Oh, I thought she called for you, sorry my mistake." He then turned and walked away.
"What's eating him? I haven't seen him all day." Demeter asked Chryssie.
"You haven't seen him? Well how could he have made a mistake if there was none that he didn't know about?"
"I don't know."
"Something is wrong," Chryssie said to herself.
"Munkustrap wouldn't make a mistake on purpose, would he?"
"Hello there lass. What's wrong? You look troubled." Skimbleshanks said and put a loving uncle like hand on her shoulder.
"Well, see I am worried about Munkustrap. He isn't acting like himself and well he said that Demeter was calling me and she really wasn't. He just seemed so possessive all of a sudden. Oh Skimble don't mind me, I am just thinking out loud."
"Oh, don't worry about it lass. I am glad that you decided to tell me." She smiled and scurried off.
Maybe I can help you with this, lass. Skimble thought. I've been meaning to have a wee chat with young Munkustrap.
Munkustrap sat alone on a bit of wood, his elbows rested his knees. He looked in deep thought.
"Young Munkustrap?"
"Oh, Skimble, what is it?"
"Well that's what I was about to ask you."
"Nothing's wrong with me."
"Well then why are you sitting here only by yourself lad?"
"Just thinking." Skimble sat down beside Munkustrap.
"Aye, we all think about her once in a while, some more often then others."
"Who?"
"Aye the Chryssie girl, who else?"
"Well, I don't know that. Oh Skimble, I am just confused. I love them both. I love Chryssie, and Demeter. It is just so confusing. Once I have figured it out, then I feel like I have got it backwards. Like once I am with Chryssie I want to be with Demeter, and when I am with Demeter I want to be with Chryssie. When I am with them both then I just am afraid that if I do something, the other will be hurt. Chryssie is capable of fighting herself over her beliefs and over her passion for me. Demeter is already mine and I was happy with her until that kitten came along. First thing off, I really thought she was a kitten along with the others. But then we had to be alone together. I had to save her life and then she had to save Demeter's and mine. Then Cassandra ragged on her... its just so confusing Skimble and I don't know how things are going to turn out." Skimble thought carefully a moment and then said
"A very wise cat once told me 'We cannot discover more ocean, unless we have the courage to lose sight of the shore.' That may help, that may not, I don't know lad. Think about it and see what you may come up with."
"Skimble! Skimble!" A Frantic cry echoed through the halls.
"Skimble!" Chryssie came racing in and not seeing Munkustrap stopped.
"Skimble! I need to know where I can find Munkustrap! It's very important!" Skimble can see the fear in her eyes.
"I'm right here Chryssie, what is it?" Munkustrap stood up and came over to her.
"Munkustrap listen, it's about Demeter! She's fainted! It just happened! She was happily dancing and then she just fell! She didn't get up! Jennyanydots didn't even tell me what was wrong, she just said 'Go get Munkustrap' and so I found you! You are to come with me quickly! Skimble you too! Please Munkustrap, come!" She then started off. Munkustrap and Skimble quickly followed. Soon they came to the site. There were cats everywhere.
"Where is she Chryssie?" Munkustrap whispered in Chryssie's ear.
"Come follow me. We took her to a safe place. She led him to Old Deuteronomy's pedestal. She then climbed over it and then behind it. There was a small little cave and there lying in it was Demeter. She was still in faint, breathing hard. Jennyanydots came running over to them.
"Ah, my dears you have come. Munkustrap, we have called for your grandfather. He should arrive here within a few days. Until that time, you two or anyone else she trusts are to stay with her. Don't worry about needs, we will supply for you."
"Can you kindly send someone to tell my mother what has happened. I promised her I was going to be home tomorrow."
"Surely dear, Rum Tum Tugger knows the way, we'll send him."
"Thank you. Munkustrap, why did you say that she wanted me for something when she didn't?"
" I made a mistake." She slid over to him so that she was facing him and put a hand on his shoulder and stared into his eyes.
"Tell me the truth Munkustrap."
"I misheard. From another cat."
"I get the impression that you were jealous of Tugger."
"How is it that you think you know how to read facial and emotional expressions?"
"I only get impressions and I watch your eyes, you don't have to get all cranky about it." Then she slid away from him and sat on the opposite side of the room. She had turned her back to him and wouldn't even look at him.
Finally Munkustrap made up his mind to apologize, maybe that would be good enough if he could finally get control of himself and what he wanted to do. He felt an incredible urge to hold her close and kiss her with all the passion he could muster, but that wouldn't be right. He belonged to Demeter, he was happy with Demeter. But why did he want Chryssie? Why did he want to feel the velvety kiss she had given him when he was awake? Why did he want to feel her soft feathery paws on his face? She was a battle. Even being in the same room with her was an emotional challenge.
In Chryssie's corner she was fighting the same battle and losing quickly. She remembered what it was like to kiss his tender lips and feel the velvet of his paws, she wanted the sensation he had given her again. She wanted his touch but with consciousness and will from him. But she couldn't because he was Demeter's and she was Demeter's friend. Wasn't him being with her illegal to the laws of love? She fought to keep herself under control. She had to or she'd lose it and leap to him without a second thought. She couldn't bring herself to look at him for the longing for him would just come stronger. She then felt the velvet paw on her shoulder and felt a tremble coming from it. She shook with longing but with the fight as well. She looked into his eyes.
"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to be the way I was. Forgive me?"
"I forgive you, now will you forgive me? I didn't want to be that snappish, but when I am puzzled I usually want answers and I get snappish when I'm scared."
"I forgive you, but why are you scared?"
"I'm scared for her. I don't know what's wrong, but I know it's serious, because no average female can be out for this long."
Munkustrap was going to take her in his arms and comfort her and he even made a move to do so, but he remembered Demeter and his craving, so he stopped.
Chryssie was already to receive that comfort, but she knew he knew and she also remembered her loyalty to Demeter, and her ever going craving for him so she stopped as well. She could see that he was fighting something inside, but she couldn't tell what.
"Hey there Chryssie girl! Look I know that it is Demeter and all but you should let Bombalurina take your place." Bombalurina said to Chryssie and Munkustrap.
"Yes, you two have been cooped up in here long enough so I think I should watch her for a while. Have you noticed anything?"
"She looks like she'd burning up, so you might want to make sure she has something cool and warm."
"OK." Bombalurina said and began to take care of Demeter. Chryssie looked at the stars and wished
"Please, not another adventure. I just want everyone to be happy. Please heal Demeter. I just want another to be happy."
"Chryssie? Are you all right?"
"Yeah Tugger, I am just worried about Demeter, that's all."
"Yeah we all are, but I am worried about you too. You're a special cat too and I think you should find someone to care for and love. Someone who can make you happy."
"Tugger, I have but he doesn't feel the same towards me. He knows I can spend the rest of my life having a desire for him and he'll let me do it. Now Cassandra wants to get on my case ever since she got jealous and I am fighting continuous battles with myself. Also, any other cat here is too old or already linked with someone else, not to mention my parents will probably blow a casket if they found out I had finally found myself a cat. Tugger I find a perfect cat and those reasons are all that prevents me from really receiving serious love."
"Gee, do you have problems with romance or what. Well I am here for you. You know that." He gently reached over and stroked her cheek. She held onto his wrist, so she could feel he was really there and was going to stay. She nuzzled his paw affectionately then whirled around for she had heard a noise behind them.
She saw a little movement and then nothing. She already knew. From that movement she had seen, she knew exactly who it was.
It probably was Munkustrap, she thought. He had come to spy on me. Well I'm going to have to prove that he is jealous to myself and to him.
Old Deuteronomy arrived the next day and he didn't stop. He went straight to Demeter. He made sure no one was with him. After several hours he made a clear announcement.
"Cats, Demeter is gravely sick. I know the cure. It is the Henjeneous flower, which grows in the center of an ancient island just close to the shore. Be warned it is dangerous and on this island. There are woods, mountains and rivers. To take the flower without it's withering, you must have a strong mind, and a strong will against yourself. These travelers must be fast and make good time. Who will go for Demeter?" Chryssie immediately volunteered herself.
"Chryssie would like to go for Demeter, who else will go with her, for she cannot do it alone."
"I will go!" Tugger called.
"As will I." said Munkustrap.
"I want to go!" called Jemima.
"Good, anyone else? Cassandra you too."
"Aw me?"
"Yes Cassandra."
"Hold on, she's more of an indoor cat than Chryssie, maybe she'll slow everyone down." Plato suggested thoughtfully.
"I will not. Come on, we'd better get started."
"Don't we need instruction on where to go, Cassandra?"
"Right well, I meant after we finished, you didn't really think I'd forget a thing like that now would you."
"No I suppose not." Chryssie sighed. She and Tugger made eye contact and he nodded as if to read her expression. She turned to Munkustrap who also nodded because he knew what her expression meant. IT read
"We're going to have a very long trip aren't we?" They listened carefully as Old Deuteronomy said,
"Follow the sunset until you meet the water's edge. Directly in front of you will be the island. Keep heading in the same direction, just be sure to follow the trail with the crest of a moonlight marked, Do not follow the stars. The moonlit path will be very difficult but it is very quick. Once you have touched the flower safely then grind the petals and put it into this gem stone box amulet. This flower is very special because it promises good fortune and everlasting life. It is known for healing and for its fortune. Now go and speed come to you. You should reach the island at sunset. This is a magic island. Whatever you need will come to you on the Moonlight path if you have earned it."
Macavity leaned against the wall of his new lodging. He was frustrated that he had lost Demeter to some short goody goody. All he could think about was Demeter. But there was something else he wanted more, he wanted to live forever. Then they would call him the everlasting cat.
"Your highness, I have done research in this subject that you desire so eagerly."
"Ah Rawtawny, one of my most finest. Well what do you have? Is there a way?"
"Yes my master there is. There is an ancient flower called the Henjeneous flower, and it is able to do special things. First, it will grant eternal life, it will heal anything, it has the power to call the dead if properly used though this takes up most of it's power. I think you'll find this particularly interesting master, it will make anyone who the owner of the flower wishes to fall in love with anyone he wishes, even himself."
"Ah Rawtawny you amaze me, now do you know where it is?"
"Oh yes sir. It is on an island not far from here. It is on the island just to the west. The flower is in the heart of the island."
"Yes I have studied that island, and I know a way, the route of the stars. It is an easy course. It's long, but no obstacles accept for climbing a slanting road. But it is easily taken care of. I'll even grant your wish of the fair Chryssie to you Rawtawny."
"You mean she'll be mine?"
"She will."
Rawtawny celebrated as the two villains walked out into the forest.
"Come on everyone! We're doing great!" Chryssie said enthusiastically.
"We should be coming up on the mountain shortly!" Jemima called merrily.
"Why are you so happy? Aren't you tired?" Cassandra asked grumpily.
"Nope! I am used to all this exercise. I do it everyday hunting mice and rats."
"Well excuse me but all of us aren't mice farmers."
"Oh hush up Cassandra, I don't want to listen to you bellyache."
"Oh you're so funny." Chryssie pretended not to hear as she and the rest tramped on happily. She played a little with Tugger and Jemima playing tag. Then they got to the island.
"Wow, that's big for an island, don't you think?" Chryssie asked.
"Well there is a boat right there."
"Yep there is, shall we go in?" Jemima asked.
"Yes let's go!"
"Come on Cassandra! Be happy!"
"Yeah, yeah, yeah." They all climbed in and then started off. At the same time Macavity and Rawtawny were on another shore launching a boat as well.
The Jellicles soon reached the island shore and started west. They soon came to a purple banner with a moon and clouds, like the Jellicle Moon. They then saw a single star on an orange banner. Chryssie started down the one with the moonlight. Rum Tum Tugger and Jemima followed. Munkustrap was left, dragging the grumbling Cassandra along. Chryssie reached the top of a hill and saw behind Tugger and Jemima. Munkustrap and Cassandra were nowhere to be seen, and she assumed something was wrong. She started back down the hill telling Tugger
"Wait here, I'll be right back, Jemima stay with Tugger."
"All right, just don't leave us sitting here too long."
"Right, we should keep going. Hurry back Chryssie!" Jemima called. Chryssie hurried down and followed the paths back. She then saw Cassandra purposely slowing Munkustrap down. She was clinging on to his arm and looking some other direction obviously happy with herself.
"Munkustrap? What's the matter?" At the sound of Chryssie's voice Cassandra immediately darkened.
"Oh Cassandra wants to go on the other path, the star path with me."
"Do you want to go?"
"Not especially."
"Well then Cassandra stays with us. She shouldn't be going off on her own."
"Well then I suppose you shouldn't either. After all you are about my age, but younger then me."
"Well I don't have a tendency to wander off do I?"
"I don't either."
"Just stay close." Munkustrap said firmly but gently.
"Oh I have no problem with that Munkustrap, lets continue shall we?" and she started walking with Munkustrap still clinging onto his arm.
"You can bring up the rear Chryssie."
"Thank you Cassandra. I'd be honored." She said disguising the sarcasm in her voice. She glared at Cassandra, then Munkustrap glanced behind him and saw her glaring. Maybe she's jealous, He thought. Chryssie thought darkly
Oh that cat, one of these days she's going to get what's coming to her. I mean does she have to hang all over him, ooh and I can't believe he's letting her, though he does look mighty uncomfortable. Ooh, Cassandra, I am going to...RRR.
Soon they reached the hill on which Tugger was perched. He then started down the other side. Munkustrap, Chryssie, and Jemima helped Cassandra up the hill and then slowed her down on the descent.
"Cassandra, I wish you'd put a little more effort into this. Old Deuteronomy chose you because he thought that it would be good for you."
"I'm doing just fine thank you. No one else has been complaining, but you are just a party pooper Chryssie." Chryssie paid no heed to the little self-absorbed giggle that Cassandra let loose.
The party came to a river shallow for them to wade across.
"Ooh, it looks wet." Jemima said looking at the water in a curious way. She dipped her paw into the water and then snapped her paw out as if something had bit it.
"Oh my it's cold too, really cold."
"Well we have to get across. I hope you are up for a swim." Chryssie started gingerly into the water. She got about knee deep and motioned for the others to follow. Tugger came in slowly, followed by Jemima, then Munkustrap. The weaker swimmers were to stay by a strong one.
"Oh, I don't want to go in. I'm a feline, not a water retriever." Cassandra complained. Chryssie walked back and surprised Cassandra by grabbing her wrist and yanking her into the water.
"I don't believe you did that!" Cassandra screamed at her. She then started to wail.
"I spent so long trying to get my coat beautiful. Oh and you just had to ruin it!"
"Come on Cassandra, you're making my ears hurt." Jemima told her.
"Come on Cassandra, swim. Beside Munkustrap and me." Cassandra swam a little, but Munkustrap and Chryssie ended up having to drag her all the rest if the way. Soon they reached the opposite shore.
"Here looks like a good place to camp. What do you think?"
"No I think we should get to the top of that mountain. Then we'll find a place to camp."
"Tugger it's no good. We'll never reach the top of that thing by dark. It's no good climbing in the dark. We're liable to fall and kill ourselves."
"Tugger we should wait until morning." Munkustrap said.
"I agree with Munkustrap. I have never climbed a mountain before, and I'd like to do it at as little risk as possible." Jemima reasoned.
"Right, I think I see your point. Besides we still have a long way to the mountain to go, and I don't think we can take another step."
"Well here is a nice place to sleep, but I think I can see a safer one, it's not as in the open as this is. Who knows what could prowl around here at night?" Jemima said.
"Hmm, good idea." Chryssie agreed.
"I don't want too, this is nice enough, I can't go another step, and I'm too tired." Cassandra complained.
"Cassandra, it will be safer over there."
"I don't want to Chryssie, I tell you I'm too tired."
"I'll carry her." Tugger said and picked Cassandra up.
"I don't like to be carried, and you're hurting me. I want Munkustrap to carry me." Chryssie looked at Munkustrap who sighed. Jemima rolled her eyes and gave a frustrated sigh. Then Chryssie thought of something.
"Oh Cassandra, you are such a little baby. You have to have someone to carry you, and when someone volunteers to do so, then you complain. We shouldn't have allowed you to come. You can't even take care of yourself. Maybe you can't because you're not good enough to us. You're too vain."
"I'll show you who isn't good enough. Put me down Tugger. We are walking to that site right now!" Cassandra started heading toward the site in an angry walk. Chryssie just shrugged and said
"That wasn't easy for me to say that. But I'm tired of her bellyaching. I also don't want you two to break your backs over her either. I said that not to be mean, but to get her to show that she isn't afraid or too little to take all this."
"Clever thinking Chryssie! You wanted to make her prove that she isn't too little to do this." Jemima praised.
"That's what I wanted her to think. Wow! She's far ahead, we might want to catch up." They all jogged and soon caught up with her. Soon they reached the site, and already it was twilight. They found the place and soon settled down. They relaxed and then realized that they were hungry. They then heard a small call. It seemed to say
"Come here, Come here little ones, do not be afraid, come here to the thicket." Chryssie followed the sound with her eyes and saw food.
"Guys, there is food over there. Tugger, come back here! Oh boy," she said to Munkustrap,
"He sure won't take the time to wait for the others."
"Well, he is the feline pig, but a cutie." Jemima said thoughtfully. They approached where they saw Tugger just sitting and waiting for them.
"It's real all right. It has everything, Tuna, Salmon, Cod, Trout, and caviar balls. It even has dishes of cream."
"Yeah, but that isn't very energetic foods. They would make you feel tired too quickly and slow you down."
"Right that's what I thought of, so I didn't take any."
"You don't want delicacies?" The voice asked,
"That's what all the other cats wanted. Well then, approach the campsite you have found and a decent meal will be supplied there. Go my darlings, go." Then they all walked back to the site, where they saw dishes that looked like the set the farmer Chryssie lived with owned. There inside was his healthy food.
"Oh pure heaven." Chryssie said.
"Well, why don't you eat?"
"We haven't had this much before. All we've had is just what we can find." Tugger explained. Jemima nodded her head in agreement.
"Try this, I think you might find it tasty, but if you want, I won't eat this and we'll see what happens next."
"No no, we'll try this." They tried the food supplied.
"This is pretty tasty actually. I like it and I feel like it's healthy and nutritious and still a banquet besides." Jemima said with pleasurable realization. The cats except Cassandra who just looked at the food with total disgust ate heartily. Chryssie stopped in the middle of her dinner and asked
"What's the matter Cassandra? Don't you like it? It's not poison. In fact, you might like it."
"It looks plain and simple, nothing like those other treats we saw."
"Well those treats we saw aren't good for us. In fact they hurt us, more then help us. Try it at least."
"OK I'll eat it." She ate it quietly and soon Chryssie saw that she was enjoying it.
"There now, don't you like it?"
"No I'm just hungry."
"Oh."
"Liar." Jemima whispered to Chryssie who nodded with agreement.
She's such a grouch, Chryssie thought.
"I'm tired, I am going to curl up, OK guys?" Chryssie said when she had finished.
"All right Chryssie, we'll lie down after we're finished."
"The spirit gave us big bowls didn't she Munkustrap?" Jemima said,
"Though yours are bigger than mine."
"Well we're boys and we have a bigger appetite then the girls do, and don't forget, you are still wee ones."
"Wee ones?" Jemima asked quizzically with a hint of amusement on her face.

"I have been talking to Skimble."
"Well then that would explain the 'wee one' wouldn't it?"
"Yes."
Tugger looked over his shoulder and saw Chryssie dozing.
"She looks to be right at home." He observed.
"Yes she does." Cassandra glared. Munkustrap finished first and walked over to Chryssie. He sat down and gave her a little nudge.
"Hmm what? Oh what's the matter Munkustrap?"
"Nothing, but I am curious. I saw you glaring at Cassandra back there when we were still trying to reach the hill. What is behind that?"
"Oh, I just don't like the idea of a cat trying to persuade another to turn around and go the other way when the other half of their party is ahead. I also don't like the way she hangs all over you."
"Oh really? Why?"
"She just looks so childish that's all. She can give strong cats a bad name. Why do you ask?"
"Well it's not often I see someone stare at someone with such a look of jealousy in her eyes."
"You think I was jealous?"
"Well since I've known you Chryssie I have learned to watch your eyes because they don't lie. They speak exactly what you are thinking, not your face."
"Well don't you think I watch your eyes as well? You say that you weren't jealous when I was talking with Tugger. I heard that jealous tone in your voice when you spoke to me saying that Demeter wanted to see me. You were jealous of Tugger."
"I was not jealous, I just..."
"I am not jealous either."
"Fine."
"Fine." She looked at him with a slightly amused expression on her face. He saw the look she gave him and threw his head back and laughed. He then leaned back and relaxed. Chryssie just relaxed staring up into the stars. She then fell asleep. Munkustrap looked at her, then to the sky, then to her again. He gave her a nudge, but it was evident that she was asleep. Tugger then sat on the other side of her.
"Hey Munkustrap. Wow, bored her to sleep with talking huh?"
"No, she just looked at the sky and dozed off. Where is Jemima?"
"She's still finishing her dinner. She said she'll join us when she is finished."
"And Cassandra?"
"Still picking at it."
"I'm right here and I think that Chryssie shouldn't be there. She'll ruin her back. I don't want her to do that so I propose we let her lie here. The sand is much softer and she'll probably feel like she was on her pillow back home. I am only doing this for her welfare you know."
"Right, wouldn't want old Chryssie to be hurt and stiff on this journey."
"I'm glad you see it my way Tugger. Now why don't you keep her company?"
"I will as soon as I am ready to sleep." Then Tugger set about to moving Chryssie from the rock to the sand that Cassandra had pointed out.
The sand is soft yes, but that's because some animal likes it there too, Cassandra thought.
"Munkustrap, will you keep me company?"
"All right Cassandra." Then she started endless chatter.
"Oh what is that noise?" Chryssie said as Tugger put her down.
"Oh just Cassandra talking with Munkustrap."
"Hold on, why did you move me?"
"She recommended that you lie down, bad for the back to be sitting up all night."
"Tugger, I chose that spot so I could sit and lie down."
"Well maybe she didn't know that."
"Maybe she just wants to be physically close to Munkustrap."
"No way, Cassandra? She doesn't have any interest in the boys."
"Yeah that's because she is obsessed with Munkustrap."
"You know, I think you're right. Why else would she rather have Munkustrap carry her instead of the one who volunteered?"
"It's all Cassandra. Now we had better get out of here."
"Why?"
"Well this soft sand is made by an animal and I think he will be very unhappy if he found somebody's taken his bed."
"OK, come on." They walked back to camp. They found Munkustrap with his head in his hand and Cassandra rattling on and on. She looked up and saw Tugger and Chryssie. Chryssie whispered
"Why not go and explain to her about the animal nest thing?"
"All right, I'll find out if it was a mistake or on purpose."
"Thanks Tugger." He then said
"Cassandra, I need to talk with you." Cassandra rose to her feet and followed Tugger. Jemima looked at Chryssie with a curious face.
"I am just going to finish up my dinner, then I'll go to sleep. Don't worry, I won't bother you." Chryssie then sat down next to Munkustrap. She looked at his face and held down a mass of giggles. He was fast asleep. She pulled him down and put his head in her lap. She then stroked his cheek affectionately. He woke up instantly and backed up saying
"Cassandra what has gotten into you?!" She looked at him as he looked up and stopped.
"Chryssie. Oh, I thought you were Cassandra."
"Bored you to sleep did she?"
"Better believe it." He then sat back down and winced for his body that was resting was not used to whirling to the feet that quickly.
"Poor thing." Chryssie said and nuzzled his shoulder, just a simple friendly gesture. He nodded and lay back, so he was in her lap again. He fell asleep quickly. She crawled out from underneath his head and stood up. Then Tugger and Cassandra came back. She looked at Munkustrap and then at Chryssie and asked
"Why'd you put him to sleep?"
"He fell asleep shortly after you left. You might want to lie down."
Cassandra knew she couldn't stay with Munkustrap. Chryssie would probably get back with her if she did, so she decided to curl up just by the edge. Then Chryssie's words came back to her. She knew that Chryssie was calling her a baby, and she wanted to prove that she wasn't the one who was worthless. She'd show her. She lay down in a corner and slept for a short while.
Chryssie saw that Jemima and Cassandra were asleep so she curled up by Munkustrap. Munkustrap could sense she was there and woke just a slight bit. He saw her smiling at him and then he saw her lie down close by. He moved close, but not touching her. She put her arm around him and allowed him to lay his head on her heart. Tugger saw them and just stood by.
"Tugger, we have room, come lie with us, it's a good way to stay warm too." Tugger lay down and put his head on her stomach. She stroked his hair and he too soon fell asleep. Jemima woke up then and saw the three. She crawled over and snuggled too.
Cassandra woke up then. She slightly growled at Chryssie when she saw her and said,
"I wonder what you'd do when I return from the heart with the flower." She woke up Jemima and persuaded her to come with her, promising that they were only going to explore a little. When Jemima was out on the path Cassandra said smugly
"Munkustrap will be so surprised and honored that he was loved by such a brave cat that he'd leave Demeter and you and love me instead." With a smug little giggle, she turned and started traveling to the west with Jemima.
Chryssie woke with the sun like always and looked around. Tugger had put his arm around her middle and was asleep. She also noticed that instead of Munkustrap listening to her heart, she was now listening to his. She looked around and saw nothing of Jemima or Cassandra. She smelt the air and looked around as far as her eyes could see and yet still nothing. She couldn't even smell them. Quickly she turned and woke up Munkustrap and Tugger.
"What is it?" Munkustrap asked when he noticed how frantic Chryssie was.
"Yes tell us what is it?"
"Where are Jemima and Cassandra?" Chryssie asked.
"Cassandra and Jemima are missing?"
"Oh no, where could they have gone?"
"Let me up Tugger." Tugger released his hold on her, from which he had been sleeping and let her up. Then he stood up and stretched. Munkustrap did the same and then he started to look around for Jemima. Chryssie searched the ground and saw Jemima's footprints. They told her that there was not a struggle and that she left before sun up. The tracks led west.
"Oh guys, I'm afraid that I pushed her too far. She has gone to retrieve the flower herself and convinced Jemima to go with her."
"Oh no!"
"Well now what?"
"I purpose that we should go on at a double pace and try to catch up to them. By the look of it, they'd probably be at the mountain by now."
"We are going to have to catch up to them. They can't do it alone. We have to try and catch up to them." Then they all started off.
Macavity and his henchmen were rounding the bend. Jemima was furiously climbing. Never had she had to do so much work. Cassandra was nowhere to be seen behind her.
Probably snoozing, Jemima thought angrily. She came upon a ledge and looked out. She looked to the great lake that was in the distance and she looked to where she had camped. She couldn't see them. That means that they had already discovered them. She hoped that they were OK and that they weren't mad at her for going with Cassandra.
Then she looked to a bend and saw cats. When she realized who they were, her blood ran cold and she whitened. Macavity was here. She began climbing down the mountain She didn't care that the others may reprimand her for running off with Cassandra, she just had to tell the others that he was here. She knew that if she could convince them then they would hurry. They would get the flower and then she'd get them off the island. Her feet touched the ground. Cassandra yawned and woke up saying,
"Well what did you find?"
"Macavity!"
"You expect me to believe that?"
Jemima gave Cassandra a look of disbelief and she raced to the others. She ran all the way and then she collided with Chryssie.
"Jemima, are you OK?"
"Jemima you should have stayed with us. You could have.."
"Guys, Guys you have to listen to me. I saw, I saw..."
"Saw what Jemima?" Chryssie asked.
"Macavity, I saw Macavity. He is here. I think he wants the flower too."
"That's silly Jemima, why would Macavity be here?" Tugger asked.
"Tugger, I think Jemima's right." Chryssie said quietly. Tugger looked at her. Jemima was panting and looked scared.
"Jemima, I believe you, honest honey I do." Chryssie said comfortingly. Jemima looked into Chryssie's eyes and saw that she was telling the truth.
"Oh Chryssie thank you. I'll try to be a good kitten I promise." Then she burst into tears.
"It's all right Jemima. Do you want to help us get the flower before they do? We can do it if you help us."
"I'll help in anyway possible."
"There's a good girl." Munkustrap praised.
"Where is Cassandra?"
"Sleeping at the foot of the mountain, she wanted me to do all the work."
"Come on. Lets go. Maybe we can catch her."
"Yes let's." Jemima said and stood up.
"You lead the way." Chryssie told her. Jemima took her hand and lead her. Munkustrap and Tugger followed. They all seemed to fly. Soon they were at the mountains foot. They saw Cassandra snoozing in the sun.
"Cassandra!" Chryssie said with a harsh tone in her voice.
"Oh, Hi guys, we went scouting this far and decided to wait for you."
"You can save it Cassandra." Tugger said coldly.
"For making Jemima do all the work, you get to climb this mountain."
"Aww, I don't want to. It's too big, why can't we go around?"
"Because that's not the path Old Deuteronomy said for us to take."
"There is the ledge that I saw him from." Jemima said pointing.
"All right, lets climb up." They all started to climb. They soon reach the ledge. They looked at the bend that Jemima showed them and they saw some of Macavity's agents. Cassandra stared wide-eyed.
"She was telling the truth all right." Tugger said. "They still have a long way to go. We do too. They have to go around this mountain and climb up a hill on the other side. All we have to do is get around this mountain."
The cats climbed the mountain all day, and the night erupted around them, but still they climbed on until they reached the top. They all were exhausted. So exhausted in fact that once they found a place to sleep they just slept and didn't eat.
Chryssie woke in the middle of the night because she was cold. She saw that Tugger was keeping her company, Cassandra, Jemima and Munkustrap were away from each other and both shivering. Chryssie then crawled to Jemima and dragged her toward Tugger, then she grabbed Munkustrap and pulled him towards the rest. Jemima woke and saw herself close to Tugger and saw Chryssie lie down, next to her.
"Cold?" She whispered.
"Jemima what are you doing up?"
"Nothing, I just woke up because I felt Tugger."
"Well I think no cat has the right to freeze. I don't think Tugger has a problem one way or another though, and yes I am cold."
"Me too. Thanks Chryssie."
"You're welcome Jemima. Lets try and get some sleep OK? We have a really long day ahead of us tomorrow."
"yes we do." Jemima said and settled down to sleep. Soon she had stopped shivering and was warmly nestled with Tugger who didn't care one way or another just as long as everyone was happy.
She moved Cassandra towards the other side of Jemima. She woke up and got up, and flounced to her own little corner saying,
"I am fine. I don't need warmth because I've already got it."
Chryssie merely shrugged and waited for her to fall back to sleep. She then scooted over to Munkustrap who was shivering. She noticed he wasn't close enough to them to have warmth. She shook him gently. He woke up and saw Chryssie bent over him.
"Cold are you?" She asked
"Yes, freezing actually."
"Would you like warmth?"
"Very much so."
"Then here, lie here." He slid over to where she was and saw himself between her and Jemima. She was at the end, receiving most of the cold.
"Are you going to be all right?"
"Yes as long as you don't mind me getting a little close." Chryssie snuggled up to him and soon they were all in a closed up bunch. But all of them were warm and could sleep well. Chryssie awoke with the dawn and saw herself close indeed with Munkustrap who was close with Jemima who was close with Tugger who was lying there comfortably. Munkustrap felt her stir and opened his eyes to see her staring right back at him.
"Good Morning." he whispered.
"I'm sorry I woke you up but Good Morning."
"No I was ready to get up." Chryssie sat up and stretched. Munkustrap also sat up.
"I see Cassandra didn't go traveling last night, she is still asleep."
"Yes she is. I told her I wouldn't speak to her if she did."

Chryssie smiled to herself then asked
"Ready to get that flower my friend?"
"Yes. Can you see Macavity from here?"
"Well let me look. Yes I can. His party is still asleep."
"Good then that's to our advantage. Wake up Tugger, I tried already and he won't budge."
"You wake up Jemima. I don't have the heart." Chryssie stepped over Jemima and started to shake Tugger. He just groaned and said
"Go away. It's not dark thirty yet."
"You're right, it's dawn." She said.
"What?" he said sitting up.
"Oh and I was happily asleep too."
"Oh well. We have to get the flower for Demeter."
"Yep, that's right, come on Tugger." he said as he struggled to wake up his mind and body. Chryssie then asked him to wake up Cassandra. He bent over her and shook her. She woke up cranky as usual. Munkustrap was bent over Jemima who was then awake. She then smiled and sat up.
"Good Morning Jemima."
"Good Morning Chryssie. Come on we have to move. Do we have time to eat? I'm hungry. Can we have some of that stuff you like so much again?"
"Well I don't know if the island thinks we deserve it or not."
"My little ones, my little ones. Look at the moon that has not yet set. You'll see knowledge." All of the cats looked at the setting moon.
"Do you see this cave?" An image came into view with the moon, and in its pale sphere was a cave surrounded in greens.
"This cave is at the foot of the mountain. If you seek the Henjeneous flower then you must enter here. Be warned, you will face time in there for your rival already knows of the cave. Good luck be with you, you have an oracles blessing, and remember, any of the flower's power that has been used for an evil purpose can be overcome with the power of love." Then the image vanished as the moon disappeared from view.
"We may be heading into something dangerous." Munkustrap warned.
"Yes but we'll do it for Demeter."
"Right Chryssie," said Jemima.
"We'll do it for Demeter."
"I'm just doing it because Old Deuteronomy made me." Cassandra said pessimistically. They all glared at her, then they turned around and saw their breakfast laid out for them. It was the same stuff they had used for dinner. They hurriedly ate and then looked to Macavity's camp. They were still asleep.
"Come on." Munkustrap said and they started down the mountain. They came to a steep cliff where they had to climb down like mountain climbers. They started down. Chryssie went first followed by Tugger and then Jemima then and an unwillful Cassandra followed then by Munkustrap. All went well until Jemima got to the center. Tugger was three fourths of the way down and Chryssie was at the bottom where it ended into nothing but cliff. There they would have to move sideways where there was something to climb on. Cassandra was right above her.
Suddenly she slipped and started sliding down. Munkustrap turned and knew that if Tugger or Chryssie couldn't catch her, Jemima would not survive the fall. Cassandra screamed and Tugger looked up and saw Jemima slide past. He realized that Jemima was going to die if Chryssie didn't catch her. Chryssie looked up and saw Jemima sliding down. She got ready to catch her. She did but slipped over herself. She caught hold of something and used all her strength to hold onto Jemima. They had to wait until the others got down there. Chryssie yelled,
"Come on you guys get down here! I'm losing my grip!" Tugger and Munkustrap speedily climbed down. Cassandra still nit-picked.
"We can't reach her! Try to get her up here!" Chryssie used her upper body strength and managed to get Jemima to a sturdy part of the ledge. Then the boys lifted Jemima up. Suddenly the rock began to crumble underneath Chryssie's fingertips. She tried to hold as still as possible. Tugger and Munkustrap started to reach for her but the rock crumbled and Chryssie began to fall.
Suddenly Jemima shot forward and caught Chryssie, so she was only dangling by Jemima. The boys then reached down and hauled Chryssie up. Chryssie hugged Jemima and cried.
"Thank you Jemima for saving my life."
"Thank you for saving mine." Jemima then hugged Tugger and then hugged Munkustrap. While she was hugging Munkustrap Chryssie hugged Tugger. Tugger could feel Chryssie's heart beating frantically and he said soothing words to her like he said to Jemima. Then Chryssie withdrew her hug and then hugged Munkustrap. He just hugged her for he was as relieved as she since both kittens had survived. He ran his paw down the fur of her head. Cassandra glared angrily. Chryssie calmed at both his and Tugger's touch.
Then they started on their way again. Being careful they climbed down to the foot of the mountain. They found the cave underneath the ledge of the mountain that Jemima had almost fallen from. Soon they were inside.
It was dark and cool, but scary. The wind howled through and made it seem like ghosts were present. Little rays of light that bounced off the water made white glimmers on the limestone walls. Jemima walked closer to Chryssie for she had never seen a place as frightening as this. Even Chryssie had to walk close to Munkustrap and Tugger, because she was afraid too. Cassandra whimpered. Carefully they picked their way when Jemima whispered
"What's that?" Chryssie followed her gaze and saw a blue glimmer of light dancing on the walls. It was strange because there was no water around, and there wasn't enough light to create such a light. Chryssie tapped Munkustrap's shoulder and pointed out the blue light. He tapped Tugger and did the same. Cassandra saw it too.
"Shh, do you hear that?" Tugger whispered. They became silent and they heard something. They heard the thumping of Chryssie's heart. Munkustrap put an arm around her shoulders and whispered
"A little nervous?"
Cassandra again glared and tried to stifle a growl because it would be multiplied in a place such as this.
"Yes, mostly because I heard what Tugger was talking about. Listen carefully, don't listen to the wind. Concentrate on the blue light." Munkustrap and Jemima both listened and then paled. They had heard it. It was a whisper.
"My dear ones, my little ones. Please help me. Please help me."
"It's the spirit that helped us in our journey here."
"Please my dear ones. I am trapped in here. Help me out. Help me out." Jemima walked up to the blue light dancing on the wall.
"What can we do?"
"Put your fingers to the stone. Please. Help me be free again."
"How did you get in there."
"A hundred years ago, a witch got jealous of how people came to me, instead of her. She then made a deal with the Evil One. She bargained more power for her soul. He agreed and she then used her new power to put me into this limestone. Here I have remained helping people on their way. But no one ever listens to my request to watch the setting moon. Please my dear little ones help me be free." Jemima pressed her hands to the limestone. The blue light flew onto her hands where a little fairy took shape. Then the fairy exploded into a thousand pieces and a beautiful feline oracle appeared.
"Thank you my children, now I will take you to the flower. I will also grant you a wish. You do not have to make the wish now. Here, take this silver bell and ring it when you are ready to make the wish. I am an oracle and I have no limits." Jemima took the silver bell and then the oracle led them through the limestone.
"Tell me oracle, do you have a name?"
"I have."
"What is it?"
"Angelina. What are your names."
"Which one, family name or the name we are known by?"
"Both if you will."
"All right. I am as my family name Tugger which I prefer and my full name is Rum Tug Tugger."
"I am as my family name Sillabub, and my real name is Jemima which I prefer to go by."
"My name is as my family uses is Munk and my full name is Munkustrap which I prefer."
"My family name is Chryssie as I prefer it and my full name is Chrychaesa."
"My family name is Cass and my full name is Cassandra which I prefer." She said this all rather smugly.
"Pleasure to meet you in cats." the oracle said although she gave Cassandra a look, and then said,
"This way. Go straight down that corridor. You will then come upon the great hall. There in the heart of the hall is the flower. Take it and do as you will with it for it is yours."
"Angelina, won't you be there?"
"I can't. I had spent years developing my power in the limestone for I didn't think that I would ever get out. I must refresh myself. Please ring the bell if you need me or if you have decided on your wish." Then Angelina disappeared into the wall.
"Come on. We need to get that flower. I don't know what I'd do if Demeter can't make it."
"Why did Angelina give YOU the bell Jemima?" Cassandra mewled.
"Maybe because I had courage and you didn't." Jemima guessed.
"Humph."
"I have already got a wish in order. It's not for me, it's for all of us." Jemima said. They all dashed into the great hall where they saw Macavity with the precious flower.
"Give us the flower Macavity."
"What are you doing here!?"
"Please Macavity, we need the flower for Demeter. She's sick and may be dying right now."
"Don't' forget master, you have the power to call back the dead in your hands."
"Demeter will not get the flower. Look at it, marvel at it's splendor, but it's mine! Seize her, I have a promise to overcome." The guards rushed forward and seized them all. The cats fought desperately but there was too many. Seven or eight guards alone seized them all. The guards held on tight to Chryssie and turned their heads.
The flower in Macavity's head began to glow and a yellow mist steamed from it and started towards Chryssie. She tried to turn away but the mist just surrounded her head. She closed her eyes but a cat made a loud clap, which made her open her eyes. Then the yellow mist swirled into her eyes. She fell to her knees and then drifted to unconsciousness. She heard the tinkle of a bell somewhere far off and then heard screaming and shouting. She heard
"No this can't be, I haven't completed the spell!" Chryssie rose up and opened her eyes like in a trance. Her eyes glowed yellow as she stood.
"Love Rawtawny!" Macavity yelled. Chryssie's eyes flashed and she began seeing images and shapes. Then she felt her feelings change and she couldn't help it. She remained in the trance.
"Jemima! hold Chryssie back, keep her from going to Rawtawny!" Tugger yelled as both he and Munkustrap swarmed over Macavity, struggling for the flower. Munkustrap grabbed it and then carefully took off the amulet off of the entranced Chryssie's neck. Cassandra just stood there, afraid to move.
"Let me go Jemima. Let me go to the one I love." She said it slowly and monotonously as if she wasn't where she should be.
"Who do you love Chryssie?" Jemima questioned.
"Rawtawny." her mouth said. Inside her mind was screaming,
No I love Munkustrap, not Rawtawny, Munkustrap!
Munkustrap was busy grinding the flower into the dust while Tugger was taking care of Macavity. Munkustrap finished and put the dust in the center jewel of the amulet. Guards were running everywhere. Macavity then escaped from Tugger. He screamed,
"I have lost my dreams and I have lost everything! Only Rawtawny got what he wanted! Might as well let him have it, though he had better repay me! Go to your love!" he yelled at Chryssie.
Chryssie felt her body throw off Jemima and felt herself moving towards the direction Macavity had headed. Jemima screamed at Munkustrap then took on the guard that he was fighting. He then ran after Chryssie. What could he do? He had to show Chryssie that he loved her somehow. He got in front of Chryssie and started speaking to her.
"Chryssie, I know that's not you. I know it's you inside but you can't break free. Chryssie do you remember when I said I wasn't jealous of Tugger? Well I lied. I was jealous, very jealous. Please Chryssie, Please come back to us. Chryssie?" She felt her head slowly turn towards him and felt herself saying
"Munkustrap, get out of my way." She screamed desperately inside, knowing that he would not hear. He stepped aside and seemed dazed. She kept screaming when her sound blasted through the magic
"Munkustrap don't let me go to him, Help me Munkustrap please!" Then she felt her mind being fogged again. She had to think straight and keep trying. She then felt Munkustrap bound up to her. In the Corner of her mind she saw mist coming all around in the room. It was so misty everyone couldn't see anything. She felt her body stop as Munkustrap stood in front of her in the mist. She heard Macavity's ragged voice shout
"Come on Come on she-cat hurry up!" She fought with all her might to put on her brakes and it seemed to be working. The magic wanted her to go forward, her will and Munkustrap did not.
Gently, so gently she could feel his great arms around her, She could feel his velvety paws. The spell began dying, she could think straight, and move her lower body on her own free will. If only her eyes would clear. She felt the velvet paw on her face. She was surprised because such a powerful and massive paw could be so gentle and loving.
The magic made her arms go upward to his throat to strangle him, but the magic weakened again and she had control of her arms and she willfully wrapped them around his shoulders. Munkustrap could feel that the magic was weakening because she wouldn't move to him like that. It was wearing off.
Chryssie could feel his arm tighten around her and that velvet paw of his tilt her chin up. The magic shattered even more and she could see partially through her eyes. Yellow magic still swirled in them but she could see his tender loving face. She closed her eyes.
Gently so gently he bent his head and kissed her, but then it grew passionate, so passionate that she had to rely on him to keep her standing upright. He then withdrew his kiss and held her close. So close she could feel his heart beating wildly against his ribs. She knew how he felt. He then took her by the shoulders and looked in her eyes. They were clear.
"What happened?" Chryssie said because she felt as if she had come from a dream.
"You know. Deep within you, you know." Jemima saw them.
"Is she all right?"
"Yes she is. Macavity's magic wore off as soon as the amulet left his possession."
"All right." And she rang the little bell.
"Yes Jemima?"
"I wish that all of us were transported home with the flower."
"It is done." and a mist swirled over them. Soon they found themselves back home. Old Deuteronomy used the power of the flower and healed Demeter. She woke up saying
"Oh I had the strangest dream that I was sick and you saved me."
"Why would you dream anything like that Demeter?"
"I don't know." Laughing they all hugged Demeter and told her all that happened.
Munkustrap then took Chryssie to a private place and explained to her what had happened.
"Jemima rung the bell and said that she needed help scaring the guards into a confusion. So Angelina whipped up some ghost that did the trick."
He then told her about the kiss.
"Well Munkustrap, a very wise cat once told me that the smallest of feelings is worth more then the most beautiful thoughts. What you did was brave and I thank you for it."
They turned and Cassandra was seen in a huff. They then returned to Demeter and Bombalurina and watched the moonrise. In that light, Munkustrap, Chryssie, Jemima and Tugger saw Angelina's image in the sky.

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