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Questions & Comments welcome. Insults are a no-no
Enjoy!😊", "writing": "The Strength of Our Bond\n\nA tale by FurryBunnyj\n\nIt was just another sunny day in the city of Virdilla. With sky clear and the birds singing, 16 year-old black panther Alex Bayden took advantage of the situation. He decided to take his adopted younger brothers, Timmy Bluescale, and Kero Wildfang, to the park. Alex felt it a great idea and the cubs didn't have any reason to disagree, especially since they had been working hard on their homework all week long. With a smile, the teen panther led the young ones towards the grassy greens and plopped on a bench to finish a book he had been reading while the cubs played catch with big red ball. Alex pulled the book out of his red sweater pocket and stretched out his long, blue-jean and tennis shoe covered legs.\n\nTurning back to his bookmarked page of The Eternal Love, Alex continued reading the tale while Timmy and Kero tossed the ball between themselves; the red color of the ball clashed with Timmy's lime-green shirt and khaki shorts, yet blended rather well with the purple shirt and jeans Kero wore. After finishing a few more pages, the panther took a minute to look up from his book and watch his two young brothers play. While smiling at their antics, Alex reflected on the rarity and significance of his situation.\n\nThe biggest and most perplexing fact was that he, Alex, was a young boy of sixteen years of age - SIXTEEN! Sixteen years old, living on his own, and caring for two young boys he had adopted. Situations like this were not normal, at all. Of course, it was all due to a combination of luck, a fortune inherited from his late parents, and Alex's unnaturally spot-on intelligence. That, and the fact that the young panther busted some badger pedo attempting to rape another child in the Tree Valley Orphanage where he, Alex, lived as a cub. Needless to say, the perp was caught and taken into police custody, and Alex was heralded as the hero of the orphanage. Additionally, the panther was given a big reward check, seeing as the perp was wanted in three different cities and had pretty long rap sheet. \n\nThe cherry on top was that child-victim of the incident was being adopted that very day, and his new mother just happened to be the city's own mayor Rebecca Ellason. She and her husband were in the office with the dean of the orphanage, filling the paperwork while the boy was going to collect what few belonging he had say his goodbyes to the other children. After raising the alarm and disabling the would-be rapist and helping the boy get to safety, Mayor Rebecca offered to adopt Alex as well. However the young panther gave his thanks and respectfully declined, saying that his heart's desire was to have a place of his own. Smiling, the mayor said she understood, but there wasn't much she could do, considering Alex was only nine at the time. However, she said she could arrange for something when he turned sixteen. With a smile, the young panther shook her hand and accepted.\n\nThat had been how Alex had achieved his independence, and most fortunately the mayor had given Alex a business card with her contact info, saying, ``In case you ever need my help, kiddo''. Chuckling, Alex looked over at the blue kobold, Timaeus Bluescale - `Timmy' for short. He had been the first to be adopted, after Alex had found him in ragged clothes, uncomfortably resting on top of a pile of garbage in the middle of an alley way. Originally, it had not been the panther's intention to take in the boy; Alex had intended to bring him to the orphanage, but the two found themselves inexplicably dependent on each other. Timmy needed Alex, and Alex most certainly needed little Timmy. So, at the moment of departure, what should have been a tearful goodbye became a plea from the kobold and a confession of mutual feelings from the panther. But, Miss Veronica, head matron of the orphanage and wife of the dean, did not think it was a wise choice.\n\nShe had stated the obvious - that Alex was only sixteen - and that Timmy needed more than the young panther could provide. But crafty, intelligent Alex remembered his ace in the hole and whipped out his cell phone to make a quick call. Mayor Rebecca showed up as requested, and agreed to endorse the panther's adoption of the young kobold, but only if Alex made sure the boy was well-cared for and got a good education, and of course Alex would have to get a job as well. Alex accepted the terms without a trace of hesitation, and even got a list of online educational courses he could take, optional of course. Unconvinced, but with no choice in the matter whatsoever, Miss Veronica and her husband brought out the forms and allowed Alex to sign them.\n\nStifling a chuckle, Alex came back to himself and turned to look at Kero next. The second, and younger of the two, Kero had been adopted at Timmy's request. Alex had more than provided for the young kobold, and gave him lots of attention. But Timmy wanted someone to play with while Alex dealt with his online classes. So, the two paid another visit to Tree Valley and found the little lion cub, playing alone in a remote corner of the orphanage. Still unconvinced of his capability to raise even one cub, the dean and his wife were not exactly jumping at the prospect of Alex adopting a second cub. But with the mayor's endorsement, they had little choice. And so, Timmy got another brother to play with - and a new schoolmate- while Alex did his classes. The panther beamed up at the heavens, thanking god and, strange this, even his late mother and father for all he had. He couldn't be any happier. The voice of his siblings calling out brought Alex immediately back to his senses.\n\n``LOOK OUT, BIG BROTHER!'' It was Timmy, who had over done it and, instead of sending the ball towards Kero, had sent the sphere straight for Alex's head. With a smirk, Alex quickly closed his book on the saved page, and not only managed to backflip over the bench, but also catch and re-toss the ball to the cubs and complete his flip with a graceful landing on his feet, without stumbling. Kero caught the ball in his hands and stood next to Timmy; both cubs were wide-eyed and open-mouthed. \n\n``Oh......My.........God,'' said Timmy, starting to laugh, ``Big brother, how did you do that!? I mean, th-that was.........''\n\n``INCREDIBLE!'' said Kero, clapping his hands together, ``You've got to teach us that one!'' Alex chuckled and readjusted his round glasses as he walked over to the cubs, picking up his book along the way. \n\n``Heh, it just takes practice and coordination kiddos,'' said the panther, smiling at the two young ones, ``and I'd be more than happy to teach you. But we'll have to acquire the proper training facilities and equipment. Doing what I just did was very risky.''\n\n``Awww, we can handle it,'' said Timmy, Kero nodding his head in support, ``c'mon, big bro. Pleeease?'' Alex chuckled and pulled them both into a warm hug.\n\n``I don't doubt your skills - either of you,'' said the panther teen, smiling, ``but I have my promises to keep, and I don't wanna see either of you get hurt - Ever.'' Alex spoke the last word with firmness in his voice, yet also with a plea for the cubs to understand, ``I love you both so much, and I would never be able to forgive myself if I let either of you get hurt.'' Slightly taken aback, the cubs looked at their big brother in stunned silence. Then, they smiled and hugged him, putting all the love they could muster into it.\n\n``Awww, don't worry big brother,'' said Timmy, nuzzling Alex's cheek, ``you are doing a great job.''\n\n``Yeah!'' said Kero, beaming, nuzzling the panther's other cheek, ``it may have been only a short time since we got together, but we have never been happier. We are both safe and well because of you, Alex. We owe everything we have - everything we are - to you.'' The teen smiled and hugged his brothers, barely containing the tears he felt welling up. Then, Timmy broke the hug and gently turned his big brother's furry head to look him in the eyes.\n\n``Hey, big bro? Why don't you take a break from your book?'' said the kobold. Kero beamed and bounced on the spot.\n\n``Yeah, come and play with us, Alex'' said the lion cub, cheerfully. The panther chuckled and ruffled their heads.\n\n``Yeah. I'd like that. Lemme just go grab a drink of water from that fountain there. You two go ahead and start up, ok?'' The cubs nodded and set off, giggling along the way. Smiling and sighing contentedly, Alex strode over to the fountain. Placing his hands on either side of the basin, the panther stepped on the foot pedal, causing a small jet of cool water to shoot out of the spout. Alex bent his head forward and began to drink. While he did so, a figure crept over and snuck up behind the teen, silent and unnoticed. With a smirk, the figure bent forward and spoke into Alex's right ear.\n\n``Hey there. Long time, no see, cat.'' The panther coughed as he attempted to stop the liquid going down his airway. With a thrill of horror, Alex turned to see a face that he hadn't seen in a very long time. \n\n``M-Mavrick!?'' choked the panther, trying to catch his breath, ``Wh-what are you doing here!?'' Mavrick Banes was 19-year-old bull, taller than Alex, average built, with gray fur, sporting a black hoodie and khaki slacks. Aside from that, he was indistinguishable from an ordinary bull, except for the mark stretching from above his right eye, across the bridge of his nose, and down the left side of his face, under his right eye. . Though the older teen had always claimed the mark was a birthmark, there was some suspicion amongst the staff and, indeed, the other orphans of Tree Valley that the mark was a scar, dealt by his late biological father. However, the subject was an expressly forbidden subject, as decreed by Maverick's adoptive father. And no one could really argue, considering that the man in question was the dean of the orphanage. With a chuckle, the teen bull gave the panther a firm pat on the back, from which Alex swiftly stepped away. \n\n``Easy there, cat,'' said the bull, smiling, ``don't want you to croak.'' The panther took a deep breath and scowled, his eyes never leaving the other teen's.\n\n``What are you doing here, Maverick?'' Alex repeated, his tone indicating that he was not wanting to deal with any of the bull's nonsense, ``Last I checked, you never really liked small-talk or idle chit-chat.''\n\n``Yeah? And last time I checked, I never really got the chance, what with all the medications and therapy sessions I had to go through,'' said Maverick, his tone equally cold. Then, he suddenly smiled and spoke in a friendlier voice. ``Relax man, it's all cool.''\n\n``What? Seriously?''\n\n``Yeah, I was messed up back then, and I tended to let my temper get the better of me. So, I guess what I'm trying to say is, `I'm sorry'. Can we let bygones be bygones?'' The bull held out a big hand to shake Alex's. Though still slightly wary, the panther shook Maverick's hand. \n\n``Well, thanks for saying that, Maverick.'' said Alex, still unsure, but deciding to save it for later, ``So, uh... how have you been?'' \n\n``Oh, I've been okay. Much better since the therapy sessions ended and the meds decreased. And you?'' said the bull, looking unsettlingly calm and peaceful.\n\n``Oh, I've been fine. Just trying to keep going, I suppose.'' \n\n``Big brother!'' Alex felt his heart drop to the pits of his stomach. Timmy and Kero were walking over, and Maverick had taken notice. No! No, little brothers! Don't come over here! The panther screamed in his head. But of course, he couldn't say it out loud without Maverick or anyone else hearing. And the last thing Alex wanted was to cause a scene in public. So, heart pounding and stomach churning with dread, the panther tried to remain calm and composed as the cubs rushed over behind him. The bull raised a quizzical eyebrow - the very eyebrow, in fact that was partially split by the mark on his face.\n\n``Oh? Who are the squirts, Alex?'' asked Maverick\n\n``They are my brothers. My adopted brothers. Timmy Bluescale -'' the panther indicated the kobold. ``and Kero Wildfang.'' The panther indicated the little lion cub. Both boys hid slightly behind their older brother.\n\n``Seriously? You mean to tell me you adopted these two? All on your own? Shit, that's impressive, man''\n\n``Language, Maverick!'' Alex snapped at the bull. The cubs hastily clapped a hand over their mouths to stifle their sniggers. The bull stifled his own chuckle and cleared his throat.\n\n``Sorry, sorry. Minor slip of the tongue,'' said Maverick, kneeling down to look the cubs in the eyes, ``So, he take good care of you boys?'' The two cubs nodded, still trying to hide behind Alex. ``Well, that's good. But you know, you both'll never be able get anywhere with this furball.''\n\n``YOU SHUT YOUR MOUTH!'' yelled Timmy, glaring daggers at the bull.\n\n``Timmy!'' hissed Alex.\n\n``He gave us a home! A life! He helped us when no one else would!'' Kero was growling, his hackles raised as he nodded to support Timmy. ``He loves us and cares for us, so you can just keep that filthy mouth of yours shut!'' Alex kept a hand on each of their shoulders, straining to make sure that the cubs didn't do anything foolish.\n\n``Boys, that's enough now!'' said the panther firmly. But he was spared from having to say anymore by the booming laughter coming from the bull standing in front of him. All three boys looked at him, flabbergasted.\n\n``Wow, Alex,'' said Maverick, trying to calm himself, ``I gotta say these two seem to have more guts than you. I like `em!'' Alex gave an unamused chuckle before making the cubs face him and kneeling down.\n\n``Hey, look. There's an ice cream cart. Why don't you two go get yourselves a treat?'' The panther pulled out a twenty and handed it to Timmy. But the cubs didn't want to leave. ``I'll be fine, I just need to have a private chat with my.....friend here.'' Alex slipped the word through his teeth as he spoke. ``Go on, and once you have your treats, eat them at that table over there. Now go.'' He firmly pushed the two young boys towards the ice cream cart. Hesitantly, they went on their way.\n\n``Heh. Cute kids,'' said Maverick, sitting on the bench. After a moment of hesitation, Alex sat too, only keeping a bit of distance between himself and the bull. ``you chose well.''\n\n``Thanks, but they chose me just as much as I chose them.'' said the panther as he watched the cubs talking to the ice cream salesman. \n\n``Yeah,'' said the bull, sighing and making himself more comfortable, ``so tell me, cat. You fucked `em yet?'' He spoke the words so casually, as if it was mere idle gossip. Alex turned his head so quick to look the bull in the eyes, he appeared to crick his neck. But he ignored the pain, minor as it was. \n\n``Excuse me?'' asked Alex, his tone low, cold, and unflinchingly serious, ``I have no idea why such a disgusting thought came up, but I assure you I have done nothing of the sort to my brothers. And I have no intentions to either. So you can stop those thoughts right now!'' Maverick gave a guffawing chuckle as he wiped a single tear from his eye.\n\n``You always were strong willed, even back at Tree Valley. It's one of the things I did rather hate about you, Alex. Kept me from showing you a good time. Rather unfortunate, that.'' Alex scoffed, thinking that their definitions of `unfortunate' were vastly different. ``But you know what I personally find unfortunate?'' Alex scowled, but refrained from saying anything obscene or otherwise rude.\n\n``What would that be?'' the panther spat, disgust in every syllable. He did not think that whatever the bull's answer was would be unfortunate at all, but still he kept his eyes locked on the brute.\n\n``You and little Howwie Benson took away six years of my life, and I never got a chance to repay either of you for it'' Alex glared at Maverick, no sympathy at all in the young teens' face. He remembered well the incident in which the bull was apprehended and taken into police custody.\n\n``You brought that on yourself, Maverick!'' Alex hissed through clenched teeth, ``That was all you, and you know it!''\n\n``Ha! All I wanted to do was show you and Howwie some real pleasure, and you two go and squelch on me for it! So it's my fault for wanting to do something nice for you two wimps, is it!?''\n\n``Oh stop being deluded, Maverick! You were attempting to rape us, both of us! And we did not `squelch' on you! The head matron heard Howwie's screaming, you moron!'' snarled Alex.\n\n``He would've been fine if he'd done as I said. And you too! But nooooo! Howwie was a cry baby, and you weren't any better. At least you were less mobile, though.''\n\n``You tied my wrists and ankles together, you deranged lunatic! I assure you, had I been free, you' have away with more than just that bite!''\n\n``Oh yeah! I'd almost forgotten about that!'' growled Maverick, showing a scar on his right arm, ``I had to get ten stitches here because of that little shit! And it took for-fucking-ever for my arm to start working normally''\n\n``Whatever,'' said the panther, turning to leave, ``this conversation is over.'' Alex got up and strode away from the bench, not once looking back at the bull. Suddenly, the panther felt himself jerked around and a huge gray fist connected with his cheek, sending him flying.\n\n``You little shit!'' said the bull with a snarl as he punched Alex, ``Don't you dare think you can just walk away from me!'' But strong though Maverick was, the younger teen had the advantage in agility. With the reflexes borne of his inherent cat nature, Alex back flipped and landed on his feet. He then brushed his face with the back of right hand to find blood. His lower lip sported a split and he could swear he felt a tooth loose. The panther growled at the older teen, his hands balling into fists.\n\n``You don't wanna do this Maverick,'' said Alex, cold anger resonating in his voice, ``nothing good will come of us brawling here like this.'' After seeing their big brother punched, the cubs tried to rush over to his aid. However, the panther raised a single and without looking at them and motioned for them to stay back. Gulping and holding each other for comfort, Timmy and Kero watched in petrified horror as their cat guardian prepared for a fight.\n\n``Oh but I do want this, cat!'' spat the bull, venom seething in every word, ``I told you before that I wanted to make you pay. And I will. It's just too bad Howwie won't get his. But at least I can make you squirm in front of those two runts.'' Maverick then charged forward and threw what seemed to be punch after punch at the younger teen. But Alex, not only determined to protect his brothers but also incensed at the mention of his best friend, managed to parry a few of the punches while enduring the others and throwing his own. Outwardly, it didn't seem like Maverick was phased, but the panther could tell he was simply hiding his discomfort. The two brawlers did not relent, each keen to knock the other out.\n\n``We could've had something special - you, and me and Howwie!'' screamed Maverick, punching Alex's chin, ``but you both just had to go and chicken out! And I suffered for it!'' Rage and sorrow wracked the bull's face as he spoke, ``All those damn therapy sessions with that old crone, telling me I was wrong and confused and taking my anger out on others. And don't get me started on the meds! Being pricked in my neck every day and night, with medicines meant to help better regulate my anger and help me sleep! But in reality, they fucked me up!! They messed with my head, badly! I had sick nightmares when I slept! And saw tons of fucked-up hallucinations while trying to get through my days. And I couldn't have any friends over `cause my parents didn't trust me! And you two did that!'' But the look on maverick's face was nothing compared to the one on the panther's; pure fury was etched in every detail of the young cat's face, from the lump forming on his left cheek, to the crack on his right glasses lens, to blood dripping from his lip.\n\n``You brought that all on yourself, you deluded jerk!'' said Alex as his next punch connected with the bull's chin, ``You tried to rape two innocent children that wanted nothing to with that kind of interaction! Whatever you went through afterwards was your own fault!'' The panther dodged as Maverick lunged for him. Thinking quickly, Alex stepped aside and swept his leg in a semi-circle under the on-coming bull. The brute fell head over heels, landing on his back. The panther quickly got on top of his foe, pinned his arms down with his legs, and started to repeatedly punch the bulls face.\n\n``You egotistical, self-centered, selfish, lowly,'' said Alex, punctuating each blow with a strike, ``you only ever, think of, yourself!'' Tears now rolled down the panther's face as his punches slowed. ``As if taking away Howwie's future wasn't enough, you just couldn't leave well enough alone, could you!? I heard about what you did, a couple years after Tree Valley?'' Maverick spat out some blood in Alex's face, but the cat turned and most missed.\n\n``What? Oh, you mean lit-'' CRACK. Alex struck the bull square in the face, breaking his nose. ``GRAHHHH! DAMNB THYOU!''\n\n``YOU SHUT UP!'' Alex cried, his voice now almost hysterical, a mix of crying and shouting issuing from the cat, ``YOU HAVE NO RIGHT TO EVEN SPEAK OF THAT MATTER!!!'' Alex threw more punches at Maverick's face, his blows almost feeble now. ``Do you even realize how badly you hurt Howwie? You traumatized him, Maverick. Permanently. He wouldn't eat or sleep, much less talk to anyone. Even me. But at least Ms. Victoria was able to reach him, somewhat.'' The punches stopped now, neither cat nor bull moved. ``She got him to nod his head, or shake it if he disagreed. So I thought there was hope for him. But then, that day came. Ms. Victoria decided to take Howwie for a walk, and said I wasn't needed. But I should've insisted! I should've gone! Ms. Victoria had turned her back to look at a boquet of flowers, but Howwie wanted to keep walking. So he tried to cross the street. He didn't know that truck was coming until it was too late.''\n\nOver at their viewing spot, Timmy and Kero and stood, horrified and absolutely devasted at their brother's word's. As they held one another, the two cubs couldn't help but shed tears.\n\n``Ms. Victoria was heartbroken,'' Alex continued, staring at the bull's swelling face, but not really caring, ``And I felt like a failure. I promised Howwie I'd always be there for him. That I'd always protect him! And I failed him. Twice!'' The nearly broke into sobs sitting on top of his bovine foe, but he mustered the strength to control himself. ``You did that, Maverick. You permanently traumatized an innocent cub and indirectly drove him to his very premature death! You just don't care about anyone else but yourself. Nothing else matters to you but your own pains and your own satisfactions! It's patheti-AHHH!!!!'' The panther cried out in anguish as the bull delivered a swift headbutt to the cat's chest; Alex wore her felt some ribs crack. Then, to add further injury to insult, Maverick pushed the teen cat off of him and grabbed the panther by his crotch, squeezing hard.\n\n``The pathetic one is you, and Howwie!'' snarled Maverick in his ear, ``all you two had to do was keep quiet and behave. But no. You wimped out and I paid the price for it. Heh! You know, I was quite serious before. When I spoke to the runts?'' You'll never be able to fully provide for them, much less satisfy them with this thing!'' The bull emphasized his point by squeezing the cat's package again.'' Suddenly, Maverick felt pain in the back of his head and in his right leg, causing him to drop Alex.\n\n``LET HIM GO!!'' Timmy had picked up a firm branch from the ground and swung it hard against the bull's face and Kero had sunk his fangs into Maverick's leg. The brute cried out and backhanded Timmy while kicking Kero. Both cubs flew a short distance away and landed on the ground, winded. They strained to get up, grunting in pain. Moaning, the panther twisted his head and body slowly to look upon his siblings.\n\n``N-noo,'' croaked Alex, barely able to speak, ``run away, boys. Run!'' But they could not respond, for both were holding each other again, crying from the pain and out of fear. Maverick snorted, spat out a mouth-full of blood, and laughed coldly.\n\n``Heh, well now. It looks the like the runts have some spunk to `em, at least,'' the bull spat again, and sighed ``Bah. You know what, cat? I'm done with you - I'm done with it all, really. I tried to do something good, and this what it got me. Well no more. I'm done trying to get shit through that skull of yours.'' Maverick began to walk away, and Alex let out a sigh of relief that did in his lungs as the bull turned and grinned sadistically at the fallen cat. ``But maybe.........maybe the runts will be more receptive. Maybe they will listen to reason.'' He began to lurk towards the boys, both of whom sat terrified before the bovine's gaze.\n\nAlex groaned as he tried to get up, but the pain was too much. No thought the panther in despair Not them! Not my little brothers! First Howwie!? And now them too! Come on, get up cat! The panther laid there on the grass, broken and bleeding as his enemy inched towards the one thing he, Alex, treasured above anything else. Maverick's voice rang through his mind. You're weak! You'll never be able to do anything for them! The panther sobbed openly as his hopelessness washed over him. He had failed Howwie, and now he was failing his little brothers. Maverick is right thought the panther I am weak. He closed his eyesand prepared for the inevitable. \n\nNO! An even stronger voice cried out in his mind You cannot give up like this! Nor can you remain shackled to Howwie's death! You may have failed him back then. But this is now! Your little brothers are depending on you! You've never failed them before and you WILL NOT fail them now! So get up, Alexander Maximillion Bayden! Get up now! Timmy and Kero need you! GET UP!!! And somehow, miraculously, Alex managed to stand up, wobbling on his feet. He stood tall and glared over at the bull. Gritting his teeth, he let lose a roar that de the trees tremble and the birds flee.\n\n``MAVERICK!!!'' Alex called out his foes' name stopping him in his tracks. Then, before he could react, Alex had jumped and flipped over the bull and, with the unerring agility of his panther blood, stuck landing on two feet and stood between Maverick and the cubs.\n\n``What the f-'' CRACK!!! Before the bull could fully register the situation, the panther balled up his fists and sunk it into the brute's face. Maverick cried out and staggered, and had no chance to defend before he was struck again. Alex delivered punch after punch to the bovine's face. Seeing their big brother's strength and courage, Timmy and Kero cheered, calling out his name to the heavens. The other patrons of the park had found their attentions hooked on the fight, and some even had their phones out, snapping pictures and recording videos while also cheering for the young panther. \n\nAfter throwing what felt like a hundred punches, Alex planted his feet and raised his fists once more. He threw a right hook. For Maverick's sins! He threw a left hook. For Ms. Veronica and Tree Valley! He threw another right hook. For his brothers! Another left hook. For Howwie! He threw a final right hook, and into this last strike, the panther channeled all of the strength he had left.\n\n``AND THIS ONE'S FOR ME!!!'' WHAM!!! The panther's fist connected to the bull's lower jaw, splintering before the cat strength. And Maverick Banes fell, sprawled in the grass. With a wobble and a groan, Alex fell to his knees. But before he could he could hit the ground, he felt himself being supported by two different pairs of arms. \n\n``Hold on, big brother,'' said a familiar voice, somewhere to his left, ``we've got you.'' Ah, of course. That was Timmy's voice. Which must mean that - \n\n``Stay with us now, big brother,'' Kero's voice rang out. Alex smiled, which was moot point considering the bruises and swellings made all facial expressions virtually indistinguishable. ``We're not gonna leave you here. Just hold on!'' Struggling and grunting, the cubs heaved their badly injured brother towards the bench. Barely moving at a slug's pace, the Timmy and Kero's never left Alex's face as they continued. But before they got too far, a voice grumbled from behind the - Maverick had regained consciousness, but remained on the grass where had fallen.\n\n``So that's it, huh?'' said the bull, ``I go out of my way for you and that shrimp, and this is the thanks I get for it? A big `fuck-you' and a beating? Was what I did really that bad, Alex?'' Sorrow hovered in the bull's voice and, unless the panther's ears deceived him, it sounded like Maverick was going to actually cry. But Alex had no pity for him. Unable to look back due to his injuries, though he didn't think he would even were he not hurt, the panther spoke croakily while staring at the ground.\n\n``You're actions traumatized one of my closest friends, Maverick. Traumatized him so badly it ended in his death. Not to mention, you threatened my little brothers, in front of my face no less! And for the record, neither of us wanted you to do that. At all. But you're so caught up in your own pain, neglect, and anger that you can't see past it. But I'm not gonna bother with trying to reason with you. It's over.'' Alex let out a pained breath as his ears pricked up; sirens were blaring in the distance. It seemed one of the now-dispersing crowd had called the police. ``Oh, and Maverick? You thought you saw crazy stuff cause of those meds? Well, where you're going, you'll be in for far worse.'' With that, the panther allowed his siblings to carry him to the bench and help him sit in it. Moments later, police furs arrived and Maverick was taken away after a quick patch-up. Alex was able to croak out a statement for the officer questioning him and, after assuring said officer medical was unnecessary, was left in peace with Timmy and Kero. The crowd finally diminished, leaving the three alone on the cold park bench.\n\nThe two cubs gazed at their older brother in silence for what seemed to be an eternity. Then, with a hiss and grunt, Alex reached into his pocket and fished out his cell phone and flipped it open. Timmy eyed it with mounting dread and suspicion. \n\n``Big brother, what are you doing?'' said the kobold in apprehension, ``Who are you calling?'' Kero too looked worried as the panther willed his finger to obey and press the necessary button.\n\n``I'm calling Ms. Victoria at Tree Valley. Maverick was right,'' said Alex, tears falling down his bruised face, ``I'm weak. I can't do this. I was a fool to think I could support you both. I -'' But the panther was cut short as Timmy drew back his own fist and punched his big brother in the forehead. It didn't really hurt too much, considering the kobold didn't put too much strength into the blow, but is still delivered a shock to the already-injured teen. Kero, who was already shedding tears, gasped and held his hands over his mouth.\n\n``You idiot'' said Timmy softly, looking down, ``you have been doing an outstanding job so far with us, and what? That monster comes along and now you question yourself? So what if he's bigger than you? So what if he has a bigger dick than you?'' The cub's voice, miniscule at first, began rising and filling with sadness as he spoke. ``The fact is, no matter what that jerk has or how big he is, at the end of the day, one thing is crystal clear here: He. Is. Not. You!'' Timmy was crying now, his tears falling and dampening Alex's pants. Kero cried too, but seemed absolutely lost for words and simply hugged the panther's left arm. \n\n``It wouldn't matter if we were given fancy games or money, or even,'' the kobold gulped and steeled himself, ``even if were fucked by the biggest dick in the world! It wouldn't matter at all, if it didn't come from you.'' The little kobold, slumped forward, sobbing, and hugged the panther with all the love and compassion he had inside. ``Please, please big brother. Don't send us away. We need you, and I know you need us. You gave us both a new life, a second chance! I don' think either of us could go on without you. Please.'' Kero joined in, hugging the panther's neck and sobbing too. After a few moments, Alex's hand went limp and the phone fell to the ground with a clatter. The panther then put his arms around his siblings and hugged them back, not bothering to try and stop his own tears. Five minutes later, or it might have been more, Alex broke the hug and spoke, his voice raspy and pained.\n\n``T-Timmy, I need your help,'' said the panther. The kobold looked at him, ready to spring into action. ``I need my phone, please. No, I'm not gonna call Ms. Victoria,'' Alex added, seeing the worried look on the kobold's face, ``but we need help. We can't stay out here all night, and I'm in no shape to drive. And since you two can't either, I'll have to call a friend. Remember Bryan Coontail?'' The cubs nodded; the racoon in question had once taken them to lunch at their favorite pizza parlor. ``Well he lives nearby. He can come and pick us up, alright?'' Hesitantly, Timmy got up, picked up the phone, and handed it to the injured panther. Shakily, Alex took it and flipped it open again. After a bit of a struggle to get into his contacts, the panther found the correct one and pressed send. A moment later, an anxious male voice picked up on the other end.\n\n``H-hello?''\n\n``Bryan? It's me, Alex''\n\n``Alex!? Christ man, I've been worried sick! You haven't been answering your texts and people have saying you go into some kind of fight!?'' said Bryan, extremely irritable. Alex tried to grin, but found it hurt too much. He quickly answered.\n\n``Yeah. I'm alive. I did get into a brawl with Maverick, but I'm ok. And the cubs are too. But listen man, I need your help. We need to get outta here, and I'm too banged up to drive.''\n\n``Say no more. I'll be right there. You just stay put. And make sure the cubs do as well!'' Bryan hung up and dashed out to his car, determined to get to his friends. Alex smiled as he closed his phone and leaned his head back with a sigh.\n\n``Alright cubs, Bryan is coming to help. He shouldn't be long.'' said the panther, wincing, ``Now you two be sure and listen to him, understand?''\n\n``But big bother, what -'' Kero began, but was cut off as the panther quickly continued.\n\n``I'm not going anywhere. But as I am injured, Bryan will take charge and you two will help him, ok?'' The cubs were hesitant, but nodded anyway. A few moments later, they all heard the rumbling of a car engine as Bryan approached. Alex registered the clunk of the door and hurried footsteps before a panicked voice rang through the air.\n\n``Alex! My god, what happened here!?'' The panther looked up to see an average built, young, and worried-looking racoon in a blue t-shirt and jeans. Letting out a rather pitiful chuckle and wincing because of it, Alex addressed his friend.\n\n``Hey man. I know I must look pretty bad right now,'' the panther began, but he was quickly cut off as Bryan stepped forward and pulled one of his arms of his shoulder. Gingerly, he pulled Alex to his feet.\n\n``Stop talking. Let?s just get you to a doctor, like, NOW!'' said Bryan, supporting the barely-stable panther. Alex chuckled and nodded as he continued, ``Timmy and Kero? You two ride in the back, alright?'' The cubs nodded and followed without hesitation. Once the invalid panther and the cubs were secured, Bryan got in the driver's seat and zoomed down the road. As Alex himself was barely able to talk, Bryan had to have the cubs tell him exactly what happened. Haltingly, and with many pauses while attempted to recall all the details, the cubs told the racoon the story within 10 minutes. Coincidentally within that time, Bryan had reached the freeway and was driving towards the DenMother Memorial Hospital.\n\n``You really are an idiot Alex. You know that?'' said Bryan as he searched for a parking spot, ``you didn't have to fight him. You could've just walked away.'' \n\n``Don't you think I tried?'' Alex said, wincing as he readjusted himself, ``That jerk's to blame. He threw the first punch, and he threatened Timmy and Kero. And I know you wouldn'tve let him get away with that either, Bryan.''\n\n``Yeah, just stop being so reckless, man!'' said the raccoon, nearly hysterical, ``It's scary!'' He parked the car, got out, and helped Alex get into the emergency room, the cubs tight on their tails. Once the panther had been admitted and his treatment underway, the cubs found themselves pacing the waiting room. They had had a bit of a shouting match with the nurse, who didn't want them in the room, fearing they would somehow interfere. But Timmy had stood firm saying that the and Kero should be with Alex, and nothing would change that. Sighing in exasperation, the nurse relented and said that they could go in as soon as the doctor were done, provided they behave and allow themselves to be treated, since they had a few bruises and scrapes too. Without any other recourse, the cubs accepted and were promptly patched up. Afterwards, they took to pacing about, unable to stop worrying about their big brother. Bryan had tried to calm them, offering to buy them a snack and drink from the vending machine, but they had refused all offers. Soon enough though, the nurse came back and escorted them all back to Alex's room. \n\nOrdinarily, the cubs would have ecstatic to see all hospital equipment. But presently, their one and only concern was their panther guardian. So, they followed the nurse closely as she wended her way through the back room. Once outside room 217, the nurse knocked and a soft, ``Come in'' answered. Bryan and the cubs entered as the nurse headed off to check on other patients. Upon seeing their brother conscious and smiling, the cubs felt instant relief. They did refrain from jumping on him, but this was quickly overruled as the panther spread his arms wide. Unable to contain their joy any longer, the two cubs hopped up and hugged Alex with all their love. He stifled a wince as he nuzzled the cubs and spoke.\n\n``Hey, how are you two doing, kiddos?'' said Alex, smiling at them. The shook their heads, however, and smiled back.\n\n``Never mind us, big brother,'' said Timmy, nuzzling his right cheek, ``what about you?''\n\n``Yeah,'' said Kero, nuzzling his left cheek, ``you were the one that was badly hurt.'' Bryan chuckled at the cubs' antics, knowing that he'd probably feel the same way if he were in their shoes. I do feel the same way he thought.\n\n``So Alex, what's the prognosis?'' said Bryan, stepping forward. The panther gave a kiss to each cub, on one each of their cheeks before responding.\n\n``Honestly I'm pretty damn lucky,'' said Alex, ``despite that headbutt to my chest, there are no broken ribs. Two are only slightly fractured, but that can be dealt with by an increase in vitamin C - in other words, more milk.'' The cubs giggled and smiled as he continued. ``No concussion, thank god. Really, it's just a few bruises and scrapes and a sprained wrist. Otherwise I'm good. Doc says I can leave right now; he's just getting the release papers and some meds for me to take home.'' Timmy and Kero cheered while Bryan stood, still shook up by the events of the past four hours.\n\n``Honestly? I find it incredible that you three could go through all that and not be scarred for life. But I suppose that just means you all possess tremendous inner strength.''\n\n``And outer strength too!'' said Kero cheerily. Timmy nodded in agreement an all four furs laughed for a few seconds. Then Alex spoke to the racoon.\n\n``Say Bryan? You think you could take back to the park when we leave here?'' said the panther, stretching his arms.\n\n``Uh sure, but......why?'' said Bryan, scratching the back of his head.\n\n``So I can get to my car and drive the three of home, bro.''\n\n``Wait, what? I thought you were too hurt to drive?''\n\n``I was,'' said Alex as he adjusted his glasses, ``but I've been treated, I've got meds coming to me, and I've been resting here. I believe I can get us home if you get us to the park.''\n\n``Are you sure, man?'' said Bryan, gently, ``I'd be happy to take you guys home and call my brother to help me pick up your car.'' But Alex smiled and hugged his brothers.\n\n``Nah bro, it's all good. We'll be fine.'' The cubs simply nuzzled the panther to show they didn't care as long as they had him. Bryan smiled and sat down on a chair nearby. \n\n``A'ight,'' said the racoon, ``I can do that. But you call me right away if anything goes south, understand?'' Alex smiled and nodded, simply happy that he still lived and that his brothers were safe. Fifteen minutes later, the doctor had given the panther his release papers and paper bag of meds and sent him on his way. As soon as they were in Bryan's car, they buckled up and headed off into the evening. Less than ten minutes later, they pulled up to the park and Timmy and Kero supported their panther guardian as he walked to his car. Bryan had followed closely, just to be safe. After making sure the three boys were in the car, Bryan walked back to his own vehicle.\n\n``Hey, alright if I follow behind you? Just to make sure you get home ok?'' the racoon asked the panther as the engine started. Alex smiled and put the car in drive.\n\n``Sure man, thank you,'' he said. So, Bryan started up his car and followed the panther as he drove to his house. Once there, the racoon waved to the panther and the cubs as he drove home. Alex, now supported by a short wooden cane he had be given, shepherded the cubs into the house. Inside, Timmy and Kero kicked off their shoes and stood by the staircase to the basement.\n\n``So, wanna go downstairs and `play' with one of us, big brother?'' said Timmy, bouncing on the balls of his socked feet. But the panther smiled and shook his head.\n\n``I don't think that'd be a good idea tonight, Tim. I need to relax for a bit before we can do that.'' The cubs looked crestfallen, but brightened up as Alex continued. ``But since it's Saturday, we can stay up all night and play video games if you like.'' the kobold and lion cub looked overjoyed upon hearing this. ``So you two go down and pick out a game. I gotta put away these meds real quick, ok?'' The two cubs cheered and raced down the stairs, leaving the panther alone. With a smile and wince, the teen trudged up the stairs to the bathroom in his bedroom and placed the pills in the cabinet. After quickly gulping one down and washing his face, Alex stared into his mirror as Maverick's words replayed in his mind\n\nNo! He growled to himself, you mustn't think that now! You won't do that to them! He had sworn that he would allow the cubs to make that choice. They would come to him, when and if they wanted to do that. He had always believed in gentle approaches and he always would. Alex would not allow himself to believe anything less. Muttering under his breath, the panther dried his face and took up his cane. He clunked down the stairs and smiled as he remembered the most important fact: he loved his brothers and they loved him. And that would never, ever change. No matter what they did together or, indeed, had to go through together. Nothing and no one would ever split them apart. \n\nSmiling contentedly, Alex entered the basement and joined his brothers. After a few hours of gaming, Alex and the cubs lay, cuddling each other, in their briefs and collars, on the basement bed. A tv show they had seen countless times played, but no one was paying attention. The panther stroked the cubs' heads as they nuzzled him. All was silent for a while, but for the tv's noise. Then, Timmy broke the silence by addressing his older brother. \n\n``Hey, Alex?''\n\n``Hmm?'' \n\n``You know we spoke the truth, right? Timm and I. When we told you how important you were to us?'' said Timmy, stroking the panther's cheek, ``we meant every word, you know. And if you really do want to, you know.....'' Alex smiled and stroked the kobold's cheek in turn.\n\n``Don't be too hasty, Timmy. What Maverick was referring to is supposed to be special. And you two are still young, yet. There is absolutely no rush for that, ok?''\n\n``Ok,'' said the kobold, snuggling again. \n\n``I have a question, big brother,'' said Kero, who had been simply snuggling and purring until now, ``how did you do that?''\n\n``Hmmm? How did I do what, Kero?'' said Alex, perplexed.\n\n``How did you managed to beat that jerk in the park? Not that I doubted you, it's just that it seemed like he had knocked you out, or worse.'' The panther chuckled and kissed the lion cub's forehead.\n\n``Well, I must admit it did seem like he had me good. Particularly after he grabbed me below the belt!'' said Alex, but he composed himself; the cubs snickered, ``but I knew that I couldn't let him win. I told you, I don't ever wanna see you two get hurt.''\n\n``Awwww'' said the cubs, snuggling him and blushing, ``thanks.'' The panther nodded, feeling relaxed now. \n\n``So,'' said Timmy, beaming at Alex, ``big brother, if you could name the one thing that allowed you to beat your opponent, what would it be?'' Caught off guard, the panther lay there in silent repose for a while. Well, there a few answers really. His agility, his intelligence, his one physical strength. But one thing stood out beyond all others. Alex smiled as the answer came to him.\n\n``The one thing that helped me win was strength,'' said Alex as he held the cubs tight. Kero was purring, now snoozing in his big brother's arms. Timmy looked confused. ``The one thing that helped me win was the strength of our bond, little one.'' The teen placed a warm kiss on the kobold's head, and taking his glasses off and placing them on the bedside table, settled down to sleep. Smiling, Timmy kissed Alex's cheek before snuggling up and joining his brothers in peaceful slumber.\n\n \n\n", "writing_bbcode_parsed": "The Strength of Our Bond

A tale by FurryBunnyj

It was just another sunny day in the city of Virdilla. With sky clear and the birds singing, 16 year-old black panther Alex Bayden took advantage of the situation. He decided to take his adopted younger brothers, Timmy Bluescale, and Kero Wildfang, to the park. Alex felt it a great idea and the cubs didn't have any reason to disagree, especially since they had been working hard on their homework all week long. With a smile, the teen panther led the young ones towards the grassy greens and plopped on a bench to finish a book he had been reading while the cubs played catch with big red ball. Alex pulled the book out of his red sweater pocket and stretched out his long, blue-jean and tennis shoe covered legs.

Turning back to his bookmarked page of The Eternal Love, Alex continued reading the tale while Timmy and Kero tossed the ball between themselves; the red color of the ball clashed with Timmy's lime-green shirt and khaki shorts, yet blended rather well with the purple shirt and jeans Kero wore. After finishing a few more pages, the panther took a minute to look up from his book and watch his two young brothers play. While smiling at their antics, Alex reflected on the rarity and significance of his situation.

The biggest and most perplexing fact was that he, Alex, was a young boy of sixteen years of age - SIXTEEN! Sixteen years old, living on his own, and caring for two young boys he had adopted. Situations like this were not normal, at all. Of course, it was all due to a combination of luck, a fortune inherited from his late parents, and Alex's unnaturally spot-on intelligence. That, and the fact that the young panther busted some badger pedo attempting to rape another child in the Tree Valley Orphanage where he, Alex, lived as a cub. Needless to say, the perp was caught and taken into police custody, and Alex was heralded as the hero of the orphanage. Additionally, the panther was given a big reward check, seeing as the perp was wanted in three different cities and had pretty long rap sheet.

The cherry on top was that child-victim of the incident was being adopted that very day, and his new mother just happened to be the city's own mayor Rebecca Ellason. She and her husband were in the office with the dean of the orphanage, filling the paperwork while the boy was going to collect what few belonging he had say his goodbyes to the other children. After raising the alarm and disabling the would-be rapist and helping the boy get to safety, Mayor Rebecca offered to adopt Alex as well. However the young panther gave his thanks and respectfully declined, saying that his heart's desire was to have a place of his own. Smiling, the mayor said she understood, but there wasn't much she could do, considering Alex was only nine at the time. However, she said she could arrange for something when he turned sixteen. With a smile, the young panther shook her hand and accepted.

That had been how Alex had achieved his independence, and most fortunately the mayor had given Alex a business card with her contact info, saying, ``In case you ever need my help, kiddo''. Chuckling, Alex looked over at the blue kobold, Timaeus Bluescale - `Timmy' for short. He had been the first to be adopted, after Alex had found him in ragged clothes, uncomfortably resting on top of a pile of garbage in the middle of an alley way. Originally, it had not been the panther's intention to take in the boy; Alex had intended to bring him to the orphanage, but the two found themselves inexplicably dependent on each other. Timmy needed Alex, and Alex most certainly needed little Timmy. So, at the moment of departure, what should have been a tearful goodbye became a plea from the kobold and a confession of mutual feelings from the panther. But, Miss Veronica, head matron of the orphanage and wife of the dean, did not think it was a wise choice.

She had stated the obvious - that Alex was only sixteen - and that Timmy needed more than the young panther could provide. But crafty, intelligent Alex remembered his ace in the hole and whipped out his cell phone to make a quick call. Mayor Rebecca showed up as requested, and agreed to endorse the panther's adoption of the young kobold, but only if Alex made sure the boy was well-cared for and got a good education, and of course Alex would have to get a job as well. Alex accepted the terms without a trace of hesitation, and even got a list of online educational courses he could take, optional of course. Unconvinced, but with no choice in the matter whatsoever, Miss Veronica and her husband brought out the forms and allowed Alex to sign them.

Stifling a chuckle, Alex came back to himself and turned to look at Kero next. The second, and younger of the two, Kero had been adopted at Timmy's request. Alex had more than provided for the young kobold, and gave him lots of attention. But Timmy wanted someone to play with while Alex dealt with his online classes. So, the two paid another visit to Tree Valley and found the little lion cub, playing alone in a remote corner of the orphanage. Still unconvinced of his capability to raise even one cub, the dean and his wife were not exactly jumping at the prospect of Alex adopting a second cub. But with the mayor's endorsement, they had little choice. And so, Timmy got another brother to play with - and a new schoolmate- while Alex did his classes. The panther beamed up at the heavens, thanking god and, strange this, even his late mother and father for all he had. He couldn't be any happier. The voice of his siblings calling out brought Alex immediately back to his senses.

``LOOK OUT, BIG BROTHER!'' It was Timmy, who had over done it and, instead of sending the ball towards Kero, had sent the sphere straight for Alex's head. With a smirk, Alex quickly closed his book on the saved page, and not only managed to backflip over the bench, but also catch and re-toss the ball to the cubs and complete his flip with a graceful landing on his feet, without stumbling. Kero caught the ball in his hands and stood next to Timmy; both cubs were wide-eyed and open-mouthed.

``Oh......My.........God,'' said Timmy, starting to laugh, ``Big brother, how did you do that!? I mean, th-that was.........''

``INCREDIBLE!'' said Kero, clapping his hands together, ``You've got to teach us that one!'' Alex chuckled and readjusted his round glasses as he walked over to the cubs, picking up his book along the way.

``Heh, it just takes practice and coordination kiddos,'' said the panther, smiling at the two young ones, ``and I'd be more than happy to teach you. But we'll have to acquire the proper training facilities and equipment. Doing what I just did was very risky.''

``Awww, we can handle it,'' said Timmy, Kero nodding his head in support, ``c'mon, big bro. Pleeease?'' Alex chuckled and pulled them both into a warm hug.

``I don't doubt your skills - either of you,'' said the panther teen, smiling, ``but I have my promises to keep, and I don't wanna see either of you get hurt - Ever.'' Alex spoke the last word with firmness in his voice, yet also with a plea for the cubs to understand, ``I love you both so much, and I would never be able to forgive myself if I let either of you get hurt.'' Slightly taken aback, the cubs looked at their big brother in stunned silence. Then, they smiled and hugged him, putting all the love they could muster into it.

``Awww, don't worry big brother,'' said Timmy, nuzzling Alex's cheek, ``you are doing a great job.''

``Yeah!'' said Kero, beaming, nuzzling the panther's other cheek, ``it may have been only a short time since we got together, but we have never been happier. We are both safe and well because of you, Alex. We owe everything we have - everything we are - to you.'' The teen smiled and hugged his brothers, barely containing the tears he felt welling up. Then, Timmy broke the hug and gently turned his big brother's furry head to look him in the eyes.

``Hey, big bro? Why don't you take a break from your book?'' said the kobold. Kero beamed and bounced on the spot.

``Yeah, come and play with us, Alex'' said the lion cub, cheerfully. The panther chuckled and ruffled their heads.

``Yeah. I'd like that. Lemme just go grab a drink of water from that fountain there. You two go ahead and start up, ok?'' The cubs nodded and set off, giggling along the way. Smiling and sighing contentedly, Alex strode over to the fountain. Placing his hands on either side of the basin, the panther stepped on the foot pedal, causing a small jet of cool water to shoot out of the spout. Alex bent his head forward and began to drink. While he did so, a figure crept over and snuck up behind the teen, silent and unnoticed. With a smirk, the figure bent forward and spoke into Alex's right ear.

``Hey there. Long time, no see, cat.'' The panther coughed as he attempted to stop the liquid going down his airway. With a thrill of horror, Alex turned to see a face that he hadn't seen in a very long time.

``M-Mavrick!?'' choked the panther, trying to catch his breath, ``Wh-what are you doing here!?'' Mavrick Banes was 19-year-old bull, taller than Alex, average built, with gray fur, sporting a black hoodie and khaki slacks. Aside from that, he was indistinguishable from an ordinary bull, except for the mark stretching from above his right eye, across the bridge of his nose, and down the left side of his face, under his right eye. . Though the older teen had always claimed the mark was a birthmark, there was some suspicion amongst the staff and, indeed, the other orphans of Tree Valley that the mark was a scar, dealt by his late biological father. However, the subject was an expressly forbidden subject, as decreed by Maverick's adoptive father. And no one could really argue, considering that the man in question was the dean of the orphanage. With a chuckle, the teen bull gave the panther a firm pat on the back, from which Alex swiftly stepped away.

``Easy there, cat,'' said the bull, smiling, ``don't want you to croak.'' The panther took a deep breath and scowled, his eyes never leaving the other teen's.

``What are you doing here, Maverick?'' Alex repeated, his tone indicating that he was not wanting to deal with any of the bull's nonsense, ``Last I checked, you never really liked small-talk or idle chit-chat.''

``Yeah? And last time I checked, I never really got the chance, what with all the medications and therapy sessions I had to go through,'' said Maverick, his tone equally cold. Then, he suddenly smiled and spoke in a friendlier voice. ``Relax man, it's all cool.''

``What? Seriously?''

``Yeah, I was messed up back then, and I tended to let my temper get the better of me. So, I guess what I'm trying to say is, `I'm sorry'. Can we let bygones be bygones?'' The bull held out a big hand to shake Alex's. Though still slightly wary, the panther shook Maverick's hand.

``Well, thanks for saying that, Maverick.'' said Alex, still unsure, but deciding to save it for later, ``So, uh... how have you been?''

``Oh, I've been okay. Much better since the therapy sessions ended and the meds decreased. And you?'' said the bull, looking unsettlingly calm and peaceful.

``Oh, I've been fine. Just trying to keep going, I suppose.''

``Big brother!'' Alex felt his heart drop to the pits of his stomach. Timmy and Kero were walking over, and Maverick had taken notice. No! No, little brothers! Don't come over here! The panther screamed in his head. But of course, he couldn't say it out loud without Maverick or anyone else hearing. And the last thing Alex wanted was to cause a scene in public. So, heart pounding and stomach churning with dread, the panther tried to remain calm and composed as the cubs rushed over behind him. The bull raised a quizzical eyebrow - the very eyebrow, in fact that was partially split by the mark on his face.

``Oh? Who are the squirts, Alex?'' asked Maverick

``They are my brothers. My adopted brothers. Timmy Bluescale -'' the panther indicated the kobold. ``and Kero Wildfang.'' The panther indicated the little lion cub. Both boys hid slightly behind their older brother.

``Seriously? You mean to tell me you adopted these two? All on your own? Shit, that's impressive, man''

``Language, Maverick!'' Alex snapped at the bull. The cubs hastily clapped a hand over their mouths to stifle their sniggers. The bull stifled his own chuckle and cleared his throat.

``Sorry, sorry. Minor slip of the tongue,'' said Maverick, kneeling down to look the cubs in the eyes, ``So, he take good care of you boys?'' The two cubs nodded, still trying to hide behind Alex. ``Well, that's good. But you know, you both'll never be able get anywhere with this furball.''

``YOU SHUT YOUR MOUTH!'' yelled Timmy, glaring daggers at the bull.

``Timmy!'' hissed Alex.

``He gave us a home! A life! He helped us when no one else would!'' Kero was growling, his hackles raised as he nodded to support Timmy. ``He loves us and cares for us, so you can just keep that filthy mouth of yours shut!'' Alex kept a hand on each of their shoulders, straining to make sure that the cubs didn't do anything foolish.

``Boys, that's enough now!'' said the panther firmly. But he was spared from having to say anymore by the booming laughter coming from the bull standing in front of him. All three boys looked at him, flabbergasted.

``Wow, Alex,'' said Maverick, trying to calm himself, ``I gotta say these two seem to have more guts than you. I like `em!'' Alex gave an unamused chuckle before making the cubs face him and kneeling down.

``Hey, look. There's an ice cream cart. Why don't you two go get yourselves a treat?'' The panther pulled out a twenty and handed it to Timmy. But the cubs didn't want to leave. ``I'll be fine, I just need to have a private chat with my.....friend here.'' Alex slipped the word through his teeth as he spoke. ``Go on, and once you have your treats, eat them at that table over there. Now go.'' He firmly pushed the two young boys towards the ice cream cart. Hesitantly, they went on their way.

``Heh. Cute kids,'' said Maverick, sitting on the bench. After a moment of hesitation, Alex sat too, only keeping a bit of distance between himself and the bull. ``you chose well.''

``Thanks, but they chose me just as much as I chose them.'' said the panther as he watched the cubs talking to the ice cream salesman.

``Yeah,'' said the bull, sighing and making himself more comfortable, ``so tell me, cat. You fucked `em yet?'' He spoke the words so casually, as if it was mere idle gossip. Alex turned his head so quick to look the bull in the eyes, he appeared to crick his neck. But he ignored the pain, minor as it was.

``Excuse me?'' asked Alex, his tone low, cold, and unflinchingly serious, ``I have no idea why such a disgusting thought came up, but I assure you I have done nothing of the sort to my brothers. And I have no intentions to either. So you can stop those thoughts right now!'' Maverick gave a guffawing chuckle as he wiped a single tear from his eye.

``You always were strong willed, even back at Tree Valley. It's one of the things I did rather hate about you, Alex. Kept me from showing you a good time. Rather unfortunate, that.'' Alex scoffed, thinking that their definitions of `unfortunate' were vastly different. ``But you know what I personally find unfortunate?'' Alex scowled, but refrained from saying anything obscene or otherwise rude.

``What would that be?'' the panther spat, disgust in every syllable. He did not think that whatever the bull's answer was would be unfortunate at all, but still he kept his eyes locked on the brute.

``You and little Howwie Benson took away six years of my life, and I never got a chance to repay either of you for it'' Alex glared at Maverick, no sympathy at all in the young teens' face. He remembered well the incident in which the bull was apprehended and taken into police custody.

``You brought that on yourself, Maverick!'' Alex hissed through clenched teeth, ``That was all you, and you know it!''

``Ha! All I wanted to do was show you and Howwie some real pleasure, and you two go and squelch on me for it! So it's my fault for wanting to do something nice for you two wimps, is it!?''

``Oh stop being deluded, Maverick! You were attempting to rape us,  both of us! And we did not `squelch' on you! The head matron heard Howwie's screaming, you moron!'' snarled Alex.

``He would've been fine if he'd done as I said. And you too! But nooooo! Howwie was a cry baby, and you weren't any better. At least you were less mobile, though.''

``You tied my wrists and ankles together, you deranged lunatic! I assure you, had I been free, you' have away with more than just that bite!''

``Oh yeah! I'd almost forgotten about that!'' growled Maverick, showing a scar on his right arm, ``I had to get ten stitches here because of that little shit! And it took for-fucking-ever for my arm to start working normally''

``Whatever,'' said the panther, turning to leave, ``this conversation is over.'' Alex got up and strode away from the bench, not once looking back at the bull. Suddenly, the panther felt himself jerked around and a huge gray fist connected with his cheek, sending him flying.

``You little shit!'' said the bull with a snarl as he punched Alex, ``Don't you dare think you can just walk away from me!'' But strong though Maverick was, the younger teen had the advantage in agility. With the reflexes borne of his inherent cat nature, Alex back flipped and landed on his feet. He then brushed his face with the back of right hand to find blood. His lower lip sported a split and he could swear he felt a tooth loose. The panther growled at the older teen, his hands balling into fists.

``You don't wanna do this Maverick,'' said Alex, cold anger resonating in his voice, ``nothing good will come of us brawling here like this.'' After seeing their big brother punched, the cubs tried to rush over to his aid. However, the panther raised a single and without looking at them and motioned for them to stay back. Gulping and holding each other for comfort, Timmy and Kero watched in petrified horror as their cat guardian prepared for a fight.

``Oh but I do want this, cat!'' spat the bull, venom seething in every word, ``I told you before that I wanted to make you pay. And I will. It's just too bad Howwie won't get his. But at least I can make you squirm in front of those two runts.'' Maverick then charged forward and threw what seemed to be punch after punch at the younger teen. But Alex, not only determined to protect his brothers but also incensed at the mention of his best friend, managed to parry a few of the punches while enduring the others and throwing his own. Outwardly, it didn't seem like Maverick was phased, but the panther could tell he was simply hiding his discomfort. The two brawlers did not relent, each keen to knock the other out.

``We could've had something special - you, and me and Howwie!'' screamed Maverick, punching Alex's chin, ``but you both just had to go and chicken out! And I suffered for it!'' Rage and sorrow wracked the bull's face as he spoke, ``All those damn therapy sessions with that old crone, telling me I was wrong and confused and taking my anger out on others. And don't get me started on the meds! Being pricked in my neck every day and night, with medicines meant to help better regulate my anger and help me sleep! But in reality, they fucked me up!! They messed with my head, badly! I had sick nightmares when I slept! And saw tons of fucked-up hallucinations while trying to get through my days. And I couldn't have any friends over `cause my parents didn't trust me! And you two did that!'' But the look on maverick's face was nothing compared to the one on the panther's; pure fury was etched in every detail of the young cat's face, from the lump forming on his left cheek, to the crack on his right glasses lens, to blood dripping from his lip.

``You brought that all on yourself, you deluded jerk!'' said Alex as his next punch connected with the bull's chin, ``You tried to rape two innocent children that wanted nothing to with that kind of interaction! Whatever you went through afterwards was your own fault!'' The panther dodged as Maverick lunged for him. Thinking quickly, Alex stepped aside and swept his leg in a semi-circle under the on-coming bull. The brute fell head over heels, landing on his back. The panther quickly got on top of his foe, pinned his arms down with his legs, and started to repeatedly punch the bulls face.

``You egotistical, self-centered, selfish, lowly,'' said Alex, punctuating each blow with a strike, ``you only ever, think of, yourself!'' Tears now rolled down the panther's face as his punches slowed. ``As if taking away Howwie's future wasn't enough, you just couldn't leave well enough alone, could you!? I heard about what you did, a couple years after Tree Valley?'' Maverick spat out some blood in Alex's face, but the cat turned and most missed.

``What? Oh, you mean lit-'' CRACK. Alex struck the bull square in the face, breaking his nose. ``GRAHHHH! DAMNB THYOU!''

``YOU SHUT UP!'' Alex cried, his voice now almost hysterical, a mix of crying and shouting issuing from the cat, ``YOU HAVE NO RIGHT TO EVEN SPEAK OF THAT MATTER!!!'' Alex threw more punches at Maverick's face, his blows almost feeble now. ``Do you even realize how badly you hurt Howwie? You traumatized him, Maverick. Permanently. He wouldn't eat or sleep, much less talk to anyone. Even me. But at least Ms. Victoria was able to reach him, somewhat.'' The punches stopped now, neither cat nor bull moved. ``She got him to nod his head, or shake it if he disagreed. So I thought there was hope for him. But then, that day came. Ms. Victoria decided to take Howwie for a walk, and said I wasn't needed. But I should've insisted! I should've gone! Ms. Victoria had turned her back to look at a boquet of flowers, but Howwie wanted to keep walking. So he tried to cross the street. He didn't know that truck was coming until it was too late.''

Over at their viewing spot, Timmy and Kero and stood, horrified and absolutely devasted at their brother's word's. As they held one another, the two cubs couldn't help but shed tears.

``Ms. Victoria was heartbroken,'' Alex continued, staring at the bull's swelling face, but not really caring, ``And I felt like a failure. I promised Howwie I'd always be there for him. That I'd always protect him! And I failed him. Twice!'' The nearly broke into sobs sitting on top of his bovine foe, but he mustered the strength to control himself. ``You did that, Maverick. You permanently traumatized an innocent cub and indirectly drove him to his very premature death! You just don't care about anyone else but yourself. Nothing else matters to you but your own pains and your own satisfactions! It's patheti-AHHH!!!!'' The panther cried out in anguish as the bull delivered a swift headbutt to the cat's chest; Alex wore her felt some ribs crack. Then, to add further injury to insult, Maverick pushed the teen cat off of him and grabbed the panther by his crotch, squeezing hard.

``The pathetic one is you, and Howwie!'' snarled Maverick in his ear, ``all you two had to do was keep quiet and behave. But no. You wimped out and I paid the price for it. Heh! You know, I was quite serious before. When I spoke to the runts?'' You'll never be able to fully provide for them, much less satisfy them with this thing!'' The bull emphasized his point by squeezing the cat's package again.'' Suddenly, Maverick felt pain in the back of his head and in his right leg, causing him to drop Alex.

``LET HIM GO!!'' Timmy had picked up a firm branch from the ground and swung it hard against the bull's face and Kero had sunk his fangs into Maverick's leg. The brute cried out and backhanded Timmy while kicking Kero. Both cubs flew a short distance away and landed on the ground, winded. They strained to get up, grunting in pain. Moaning, the panther twisted his head and body slowly to look upon his siblings.

``N-noo,'' croaked Alex, barely able to speak, ``run away, boys. Run!'' But they could not respond, for both were holding each other again, crying from the pain and out of fear. Maverick snorted, spat out a mouth-full of blood, and laughed coldly.

``Heh, well now. It looks the like the runts have some spunk to `em, at least,'' the bull spat again, and sighed ``Bah. You know what, cat? I'm done with you - I'm done with it all, really. I tried to do something good, and this what it got me. Well no more. I'm done trying to get shit through that skull of yours.'' Maverick began to walk away, and Alex let out a sigh of relief that did in his lungs as the bull turned and grinned sadistically at the fallen cat. ``But maybe.........maybe the runts will be more receptive. Maybe they will listen to reason.'' He began to lurk towards the boys, both of whom sat terrified before the bovine's gaze.

Alex groaned as he tried to get up, but the pain was too much. No thought the panther in despair Not them! Not my little brothers! First Howwie!? And now them too! Come on, get up cat! The panther laid there on the grass, broken and bleeding as his enemy inched towards the one thing he, Alex, treasured above anything else. Maverick's voice rang through his mind. You're weak! You'll never be able to do anything for them! The panther sobbed openly as his hopelessness washed over him.  He had failed Howwie, and now he was failing his little brothers. Maverick is right thought the panther I am weak. He closed his eyesand prepared for the inevitable.

NO! An even stronger voice cried out in his mind You cannot give up like this! Nor can you remain shackled to Howwie's death! You may have failed him back then. But this is now! Your little brothers are depending on you! You've never failed them before and you WILL NOT fail them now! So get up, Alexander Maximillion Bayden! Get up now! Timmy and Kero need you! GET UP!!! And somehow, miraculously, Alex managed to stand up, wobbling on his feet. He stood tall and glared over at the bull. Gritting his teeth, he let lose a roar that de the trees tremble and the birds flee.

``MAVERICK!!!'' Alex called out his foes' name stopping him in his tracks. Then, before he could react, Alex had jumped and flipped over the bull and, with the unerring agility of his panther blood, stuck landing on two feet and stood between Maverick and the cubs.

``What the f-'' CRACK!!! Before the bull could fully register the situation, the panther balled up his fists and sunk it into the brute's face. Maverick cried out and staggered, and had no chance to defend before he was struck again. Alex delivered punch after punch to the bovine's face. Seeing their big brother's strength and courage, Timmy and Kero cheered, calling out his name to the heavens. The other patrons of the park had found their attentions hooked on the fight, and some even had their phones out, snapping pictures and recording videos while also cheering for the young panther.

After throwing what felt like a hundred punches, Alex planted his feet and raised his fists once more. He threw a right hook. For Maverick's sins! He threw a left hook. For Ms. Veronica and Tree Valley! He threw another right hook. For his brothers! Another left hook. For Howwie! He threw a final right hook, and into this last strike, the panther channeled all of the strength he had left.

``AND THIS ONE'S FOR ME!!!'' WHAM!!! The panther's fist connected to the bull's lower jaw, splintering before the cat strength. And Maverick Banes fell, sprawled in the grass. With a wobble and a groan, Alex fell to his knees. But before he could he could hit the ground, he felt himself being supported by two different pairs of arms.

``Hold on, big brother,'' said a familiar voice, somewhere to his left, ``we've got you.'' Ah, of course. That was Timmy's voice. Which must mean that -

``Stay with us now, big brother,'' Kero's voice rang out. Alex smiled, which was moot point considering the bruises and swellings made all facial expressions virtually indistinguishable. ``We're not gonna leave you here. Just hold on!'' Struggling and grunting, the cubs heaved their badly injured brother towards the bench. Barely moving at a slug's pace, the Timmy and Kero's never left Alex's face as they continued. But before they got too far, a voice grumbled from behind the - Maverick had regained consciousness, but remained on the grass where had fallen.

``So that's it, huh?'' said the bull, ``I go out of my way for you and that shrimp, and this is the thanks I get for it? A big `fuck-you' and a beating? Was what I did really that bad, Alex?'' Sorrow hovered in the bull's voice and, unless the panther's ears deceived him, it sounded like Maverick was going to actually cry. But Alex had no pity for him. Unable to look back due to his injuries, though he didn't think he would even were he not hurt, the panther spoke croakily while staring at the ground.

``You're actions traumatized one of my closest friends, Maverick. Traumatized him so badly it ended in his death. Not to mention, you threatened my little brothers, in front of my face no less! And for the record, neither of us wanted you to do that. At all. But you're so caught up in your own pain, neglect, and anger that you can't see past it. But I'm not gonna bother with trying to reason with you. It's over.'' Alex let out a pained breath as his ears pricked up; sirens were blaring in the distance. It seemed one of the now-dispersing crowd had called the police. ``Oh, and Maverick? You thought you saw crazy stuff cause of those meds? Well, where you're going, you'll be in for far worse.'' With that, the panther allowed his siblings to carry him to the bench and help him sit in it. Moments later, police furs arrived and Maverick was taken away after a quick patch-up. Alex was able to croak out a statement for the officer questioning him and, after assuring said officer medical was unnecessary, was left in peace with Timmy and Kero. The crowd finally diminished, leaving the three alone on the cold park bench.

The two cubs gazed at their older brother in silence for what seemed to be an eternity. Then, with a hiss and grunt, Alex reached into his pocket and fished out his cell phone and flipped it open. Timmy eyed it with mounting dread and suspicion.

``Big brother, what are you doing?'' said the kobold in apprehension, ``Who are you calling?'' Kero too looked worried as the panther willed his finger to obey and press the necessary button.

``I'm calling Ms. Victoria at Tree Valley. Maverick was right,'' said Alex, tears falling down his bruised face, ``I'm weak. I can't do this. I was a fool to think I could support you both. I -'' But the panther was cut short as Timmy drew back his own fist and punched his big brother in the forehead. It didn't really hurt too much, considering the kobold didn't put too much strength into the blow, but is still delivered a shock to the already-injured teen. Kero, who was already shedding tears, gasped and held his hands over his mouth.

``You idiot'' said Timmy softly, looking down, ``you have been doing an outstanding job so far with us, and what? That monster comes along and now you question yourself? So what if he's bigger than you? So what if he has a bigger dick than you?'' The cub's voice, miniscule at first, began rising and filling with sadness as he spoke. ``The fact is, no matter what that jerk has or how big he is, at the end of the day, one thing is crystal clear here: He. Is. Not. You!'' Timmy was crying now, his tears falling and dampening Alex's pants. Kero cried too, but seemed absolutely lost for words and simply hugged the panther's left arm.

``It wouldn't matter if we were given fancy games or money, or even,'' the kobold gulped and steeled himself, ``even if were fucked by the biggest dick in the world! It wouldn't matter at all, if it didn't come from you.'' The little kobold, slumped forward, sobbing, and hugged the panther with all the love and compassion he had inside. ``Please, please big brother. Don't send us away. We need you, and I know you need us. You gave us both a new life, a second chance! I don' think either of us could go on without you. Please.'' Kero joined in, hugging the panther's neck and sobbing too. After a few moments, Alex's hand went limp and the phone fell to the ground with a clatter. The panther then put his arms around his siblings and hugged them back, not bothering to try and stop his own tears. Five minutes later, or it might have been more, Alex broke the hug and spoke, his voice raspy and pained.

``T-Timmy, I need your help,'' said the panther. The kobold looked at him, ready to spring into action. ``I need my phone, please. No, I'm not gonna call Ms. Victoria,'' Alex added, seeing the worried look on the kobold's face, ``but we need help. We can't stay out here all night, and I'm in no shape to drive. And since you two can't either, I'll have to call a friend. Remember Bryan Coontail?'' The cubs nodded; the racoon in question had once taken them to lunch at their favorite pizza parlor. ``Well he lives nearby. He can come and pick us up, alright?'' Hesitantly, Timmy got up, picked up the phone, and handed it to the injured panther. Shakily, Alex took it and flipped it open again. After a bit of a struggle to get into his contacts, the panther found the correct one and pressed send. A moment later, an anxious male voice picked up on the other end.

``H-hello?''

``Bryan? It's me, Alex''

``Alex!? Christ man, I've been worried sick! You haven't been answering your texts and people have saying you go into some kind of fight!?'' said Bryan, extremely irritable. Alex tried to grin, but found it hurt too much. He quickly answered.

``Yeah. I'm alive. I did get into a brawl with Maverick, but I'm ok. And the cubs are too. But listen man, I need your help. We need to get outta here, and I'm too banged up to drive.''

``Say no more. I'll be right there. You just stay put. And make sure the cubs do as well!'' Bryan hung up and dashed out to his car, determined to get to his friends. Alex smiled as he closed his phone and leaned his head back with a sigh.

``Alright cubs, Bryan is coming to help. He shouldn't be long.'' said the panther, wincing, ``Now you two be sure and listen to him, understand?''

``But big bother, what -'' Kero began, but was cut off as the panther quickly continued.

``I'm not going anywhere. But as I am injured, Bryan will take charge and you two will help him, ok?'' The cubs were hesitant, but nodded anyway. A few moments later, they all heard the rumbling of a car engine as Bryan approached. Alex registered the clunk of the door and hurried footsteps before a panicked voice rang through the air.

``Alex! My god, what happened here!?'' The panther looked up to see an average built, young, and worried-looking racoon in a blue t-shirt and jeans. Letting out a rather pitiful chuckle and wincing because of it, Alex addressed his friend.

``Hey man. I know I must look pretty bad right now,'' the panther began, but he was quickly cut off as Bryan stepped forward and pulled one of his arms of his shoulder. Gingerly, he pulled Alex to his feet.

``Stop talking. Let?s just get you to a doctor, like, NOW!'' said Bryan, supporting the barely-stable panther. Alex chuckled and nodded as he continued, ``Timmy and Kero? You two ride in the back, alright?'' The cubs nodded and followed without hesitation. Once the invalid panther and the cubs were secured, Bryan got in the driver's seat and zoomed down the road. As Alex himself was barely able to talk, Bryan had to have the cubs tell him exactly what happened. Haltingly, and with many pauses while attempted to recall all the details, the cubs told the racoon the story within 10 minutes. Coincidentally within that time, Bryan had reached the freeway and was driving towards the DenMother Memorial Hospital.

``You really are an idiot Alex. You know that?'' said Bryan as he searched for a parking spot, ``you didn't have to fight him. You could've just walked away.''

``Don't you think I tried?'' Alex said, wincing as he readjusted himself, ``That jerk's to blame. He threw the first punch, and he threatened Timmy and Kero. And I know you wouldn'tve let him get away with that either, Bryan.''

``Yeah, just stop being so reckless, man!'' said the raccoon, nearly hysterical, ``It's scary!'' He parked the car, got out, and helped Alex get into the emergency room, the cubs tight on their tails. Once the panther had been admitted and his treatment underway, the cubs found themselves pacing the waiting room. They had had a bit of a shouting match with the nurse, who didn't want them in the room, fearing they would somehow interfere. But Timmy had stood firm saying that the and Kero should be with Alex, and nothing would change that. Sighing in exasperation, the nurse relented and said that they could go in as soon as the doctor were done, provided they behave and allow themselves to be treated, since they had a few bruises and scrapes too. Without any other recourse, the cubs accepted and were promptly patched up. Afterwards, they took to pacing about, unable to stop worrying about their big brother. Bryan had tried to calm them, offering to buy them a snack and drink from the vending machine, but they had refused all offers. Soon enough though, the nurse came back and escorted them all back to Alex's room.

Ordinarily, the cubs would have ecstatic to see all hospital equipment. But presently, their one and only concern was their panther guardian. So, they followed the nurse closely as she wended her way through the back room. Once outside room 217, the nurse knocked and a soft, ``Come in'' answered. Bryan and the cubs entered as the nurse headed off to check on other patients. Upon seeing their brother conscious and smiling, the cubs felt instant relief. They did refrain from jumping on him, but this was quickly overruled as the panther spread his arms wide. Unable to contain their joy any longer, the two cubs hopped up and hugged Alex with all their love. He stifled a wince as he nuzzled the cubs and spoke.

``Hey, how are you two doing, kiddos?'' said Alex, smiling at them. The shook their heads, however, and smiled back.

``Never mind us, big brother,'' said Timmy, nuzzling his right cheek, ``what about you?''

``Yeah,'' said Kero, nuzzling his left cheek, ``you were the one that was badly hurt.'' Bryan chuckled at the cubs' antics, knowing that he'd probably feel the same way if he were in their shoes. I do feel the same way he thought.

``So Alex, what's the prognosis?'' said Bryan, stepping forward. The panther gave a kiss to each cub, on one each of their cheeks before responding.

``Honestly I'm pretty damn lucky,'' said Alex, ``despite that headbutt to my chest, there are no broken ribs. Two are only slightly fractured, but that can be dealt with by an increase in vitamin C - in other words, more milk.'' The cubs giggled and smiled as he continued. ``No concussion, thank god. Really, it's just a few bruises and scrapes and a sprained wrist. Otherwise I'm good. Doc says I can leave right now; he's just getting the release papers and some meds for me to take home.'' Timmy and Kero cheered while Bryan stood, still shook up by the events of the past four hours.

``Honestly? I find it incredible that you three could go through all that and not be scarred for life. But I suppose that just means you all possess tremendous inner strength.''

``And outer strength too!'' said Kero cheerily. Timmy nodded in agreement an all four furs laughed for a few seconds. Then Alex spoke to the racoon.

``Say Bryan? You think you could take back to the park when we leave here?'' said the panther, stretching his arms.

``Uh sure, but......why?'' said Bryan, scratching the back of his head.

``So I can get to my car and drive the three of home, bro.''

``Wait, what? I thought you were too hurt to drive?''

``I was,'' said Alex as he adjusted his glasses, ``but I've been treated, I've got meds coming to me, and I've been resting here. I believe I can get us home if you get us to the park.''

``Are you sure, man?'' said Bryan, gently, ``I'd be happy to take you guys home and call my brother to help me pick up your car.'' But Alex smiled and hugged his brothers.

``Nah bro, it's all good. We'll be fine.'' The cubs simply nuzzled the panther to show they didn't care as long as they had him. Bryan smiled and sat down on a chair nearby.

``A'ight,'' said the racoon, ``I can do that. But you call me right away if anything goes south, understand?'' Alex smiled and nodded, simply happy that he still lived and that his brothers were safe. Fifteen minutes later, the doctor had given the panther his release papers and paper bag of meds and sent him on his way. As soon as they were in Bryan's car, they buckled up and headed off into the evening. Less than ten minutes later, they pulled up to the park and Timmy and Kero supported their panther guardian as he walked to his car. Bryan had followed closely, just to be safe. After making sure the three boys were in the car, Bryan walked back to his own vehicle.

``Hey, alright if I follow behind you? Just to make sure you get home ok?'' the racoon asked the panther as the engine started. Alex smiled and put the car in drive.

``Sure man, thank you,'' he said. So, Bryan started up his car and followed the panther as he drove to his house. Once there, the racoon waved to the panther and the cubs as he drove home. Alex, now supported by a short wooden cane he had be given, shepherded the cubs into the house. Inside, Timmy and Kero kicked off their shoes and stood by the staircase to the basement.

``So, wanna go downstairs and `play' with one of us, big brother?'' said Timmy, bouncing on the balls of his socked feet. But the panther smiled and shook his head.

``I don't think that'd be a good idea tonight, Tim. I need to relax for a bit before we can do that.'' The cubs looked crestfallen, but brightened up as Alex continued. ``But since it's Saturday, we can stay up all night and play video games if you like.'' the kobold and lion cub looked overjoyed upon hearing this. ``So you two go down and pick out a game. I gotta put away these meds real quick, ok?'' The two cubs cheered and raced down the stairs, leaving the panther alone. With a smile and wince, the teen trudged up the stairs to the bathroom in his bedroom and placed the pills in the cabinet. After quickly gulping one down and washing his face, Alex stared into his mirror as Maverick's words replayed in his mind

No! He growled to himself, you mustn't think that now! You won't do that to them! He had sworn that he would allow the cubs to make that choice. They would come to him, when and if they wanted to do that. He had always believed in gentle approaches and he always would. Alex would not allow himself to believe anything less. Muttering under his breath, the panther dried his face and took up his cane. He clunked down the stairs and smiled as he remembered the most important fact: he loved his brothers and they loved him. And that would never, ever change. No matter what they did together or, indeed, had to go through together. Nothing and no one would ever split them apart.

Smiling contentedly, Alex entered the basement and joined his brothers. After a few hours of gaming, Alex and the cubs lay, cuddling each other, in their briefs and collars, on the basement bed. A tv show they had seen countless times played, but no one was paying attention. The panther stroked the cubs' heads as they nuzzled him. All was silent for a while, but for the tv's noise. Then, Timmy broke the silence by addressing his older brother.

``Hey, Alex?''

``Hmm?''

``You know we spoke the truth, right? Timm and I. When we told you how important you were to us?'' said Timmy, stroking the panther's cheek, ``we meant every word, you know. And if you really do want to, you know.....'' Alex smiled and stroked the kobold's cheek in turn.

``Don't be too hasty, Timmy. What Maverick was referring to is supposed to be special. And you two are still young, yet. There is absolutely no rush for that, ok?''

``Ok,'' said the kobold, snuggling again.

``I have a question, big brother,'' said Kero, who had been simply snuggling and purring until now, ``how did you do that?''

``Hmmm? How did I do what, Kero?'' said Alex, perplexed.

``How did you managed to beat that jerk in the park? Not that I doubted you, it's just that it seemed like he had knocked you out, or worse.'' The panther chuckled and kissed the lion cub's forehead.

``Well, I must admit it did seem like he had me good. Particularly after he grabbed me below the belt!'' said Alex, but he composed himself; the cubs snickered, ``but I knew that I couldn't let him win. I told you, I don't ever wanna see you two get hurt.''

``Awwww'' said the cubs, snuggling him and blushing, ``thanks.'' The panther nodded, feeling relaxed now.

``So,'' said Timmy, beaming at Alex, ``big brother, if you could name the one thing that allowed you to beat your opponent, what would it be?'' Caught off guard, the panther lay there in silent repose for a while. Well, there a few answers really. His agility, his intelligence, his one physical strength. But one thing stood out beyond all others. Alex smiled as the answer came to him.

``The one thing that helped me win was strength,'' said Alex as he held the cubs tight. Kero was purring, now snoozing in his big brother's arms. Timmy looked confused. ``The one thing that helped me win was the strength of our bond, little one.'' The teen placed a warm kiss on the kobold's head, and taking his glasses off and placing them on the bedside table, settled down to sleep. Smiling, Timmy kissed Alex's cheek before snuggling up and joining his brothers in peaceful slumber.

                                                              

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