Theory - primary cap duty -transformer output current

["Tesla list" <tesla-at-pupman-dot-com>]

Original poster: "PotLuck by way of Terry Fritz <twftesla-at-qwest-dot-net>" <potluckutk-at-earthlink-dot-net>

My inquiry focuses on transformer current and the primary cap.
My understanding is that once the primary cap is charged and the firing spark
occurs that the transformer's current during the HV pulse and "ringing" are no
longer a factor, that the energy stored in the primary cap becomes the sole
provider of current in the tank circuit. Once that arc is quenched then the
primary cap is again charged. So how does transformer current fit into the
scheme of things? If that cap is allowed to charge within 90% of the voltage
available before discharge then where does transformer current fit in? Does
higher current allow quicker charge time?
 
I can see where firing at zero-crossing is also advantageous, allowing the cap
to "see" the full transformer output voltage and eliminates shorting the
transformer secondary during discharge.
 
Somewhere I think I have something missing or thinking wrongly.