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Despite the peril and uncertainty surrounding the animals of Third Earth, Felline found herself basking in the beauty of the sunset. The air was cool and crisp, carrying the scent of pine and earth. The magical copper orb of fire painted the stunning heavens shades of lilac, fuchsia, and orange, casting a warm, golden light over the landscape.
It never ceased to amaze her. The sun, a beacon of hope, even when it set, still radiated its enchantment. The young leopardess was so captivated by the natural phenomenon that she didn't realize someone had joined her, the sky ablaze with a riot of colors, the air filled with a soft, golden glow.
"Beautiful, isn't it?" spoke a kind voice that caused the young cat to jump. It was Lion-O, King of the ThunderCats, a figure she had come to respect and admire. Despite his royal status, he was still far from the ideal monarch his father had been. Even after all their perilous undertakings to reclaim the Power Stones and thwart Mumm-Ra, his face still held the image of his youth and wonder.
Hence, he hadn't been physically hardened by their treacherous quest. She smiled before scooting closer and replying, "Yes, it is pretty captivating. Before we left our home, my sister and I used to watch the sunset together.
This time of day? Everything in the world is at peace. We can appreciate life's simple pleasures. To be able to count our blessings. Then, when daybreak ascends, we witness this miracle again."
"We haven't had many moments of peace since the fall of our empire, have we?" he asked forlornly, his voice tinged with the weight of their shared history, the loss of their home, and the upheaval it brought to their lives.
He didn't notice she laid her hand over his to comfort him. "No, we have not. Still, we should try to take joy in these fleeting moments. As the sun descends, I find only my good memories awash my mind," gazing wistfully at the sun. She said before speaking quietly, "Of a simpler time before the pain that wrought my family apart. Before all the heartache and loss we've endured. I find myself both joyful and melancholy at the same time."
Lion-O then squeezed her hand before answering. "I find myself too in these fleeting moments of peace, Felline. I think back on my youth and when my father was still alive. I don't see the world torn apart anymore, nor my heart in my dreams."
"Lion-O, we both know misery and anguish are a part of life. They build us up to be stronger. If we never knew sorrow, we'd never understand joy. It doesn't make it hurt any less. But what doesn't kill us makes us stronger."
"Do you believe we're still strong enough to save this world? And all who call it home?"
"Let's not wonder about the future, Lion-O. Instead, let's appreciate this moment of peace. Let's not think about the what-ifs or past regrets. Instead, let's live in this moment." The two young cats gazed at each other, a silent understanding passing between them before leaning into a kiss. Yes, the sunset was a magical time, without a doubt.