Pekee Pamoja Pride from Ukumbi wa Paradiso

[Tiger♥Bear]

D8 : Write a description of two pride member’s relationship (150 word minimum)

While Tendaji always had a way with words and had a natural charm, he wasn't one to abuse that. Of course he had friends- many friends, but he never really had relationships. More than a few girls were drawn in though for him it seemed shallow. He was an attractive and charming guy, but he wanted a relationship with meaning and not something simply because he could have one. Needless to say, he had very few relationships. He spent some time with a girl from his home pride, but she turned out to be just like the rest. It only seemed to get worse after the hyena incident. Leaving to find a new home was the beginning of a new adventure for him. Towards the end of his travels, he ran into Firyali. She was definitely a timid lioness but she seemed to have heard of his exploits. Something about her was drawing him in. He couldn't explain it. Perhaps because she was one of the very few who hadn't thrown herself at him after hearing of his feat. Or the silent strength he sensed in her that she wouldn't admit to. It took a certain kind of lioness to start her own pride. It was an instant attraction. One he had trouble distinguishing between romantic and emotional. Regardless, it was an attraction he wanted to pursue.

(227 Words)

[Tiger♥Bear]

D8 : Write a description of two pride member’s relationship (150 word minimum)

The two definitely liked each other. Of that, there was no doubt. In the beginning, however, they weren't on the same level. Firyali never imagined some one such as Tendaji would be interested in her. He could have anyone he wanted. That was just the type of lion he was. After several months of spending most of their days together and not wanting to admit to how she truly felt, she was surprised when he admitted to his feelings about her first. Not so much about him saying it, but that he felt that way. Tendaji assumed she would react the way she did. He told her how inspired he was by her actions to take charge of something she was so passionate about: making a home for anyone. It's not easy leaving the only home you know. She was always so self-conscience about her appearance and he assured her there wasn't a reason to be. It wasn't a quick thing, but when they got together things sped up. Both had always wanted a family and they couldn't be more pleased with how their lives turned out. How it had brought them together.

(193 Words)

[Tiger♥Bear]

D8 : Write a description of two pride member’s relationship (150 word minimum)

Zuri is the first born to Firyali and Tendaji and the oldest of, currently, six cubs. Both her parents loved her unconditionally, of course. As a cub, she was always wanting to go on adventures. That was one of the reasons her and her father were so close. It was apparent even at such a young age how much she took after him. She was outgoing and smart, always had a solution if she just took the time to think about the problem. She always looked up to him. He was her motivator, always encouraging her. When she was a yearling, he had taken both her and her brother Zuberi to hunt. Sometimes her mother would teach them but Tendaji liked getting time with the kids. He made it fun, turned it into a game to keep them entertained. Of course, her brother was never as impressed as she was. She loves both her parents dearly, but she definitely has a softer spot for her father.

(166 Words)

[Tiger♥Bear]

D8 : Write a description of two pride member’s relationship (150 word minimum)

Now, Zuri's relationship was her mother was much different. While she adored her father, she felt more of a typical familial love for her mother. She wouldn't change her mother for anything or anyone. Firyali loved all her children equally. Becoming a mother didn't change her quiet nature much, if at all. Sometimes that was something Zuri counted on. If she ever felt frustrated, she'd always go to her mother. Usually her father would be the one to ease stress with a fun walk or sharing stories of his childhood. When it was all too much, she wanted quiet comfort which was something only her mother could provide. Firyali could sense it- like only a mother could. Zuri would lay down with a huff and Firyali would join her, not speaking but a gentle reassurance that things would be okay. It was refreshing at times to have someone to go to even if nothing was said. This could be perhaps because, as a cub, Zuri would often snuggle with her mother after a long day.

(175 Words)

[Tiger♥Bear]

D2 : Write a 400 word scene/story of your choosing involving your pride members

"Where- Where are we going?"
The gray lioness laughed as if she hadn't a care in the world. "Don't be so nervous. Don't you trust me?"
"O-of course! I just... You know I'm not a fan of surprises."
She stopped walking causing the lion to bump into her slightly. He stammered out an apology as he took a step back. She shook her head with a smile that could be seen in her eyes. Closing the gap between them again, she gave him a soft kiss. Despite the affection lasting so briefly, she could feel some of his tension slipping away.
"Just relax, Zuberi. I promise, you're gonna love it."
The dark lion gave her a weak smile but nodded his maned head nonetheless. "Alright, Nea. Lead the way."
With a bounce of excitement she continued leading him through the thick foliage. The pair was making their way through Kuni za Mkondo. To where, Zuberi wasn't sure but Nea had wanted it to be a surprise. They had been here a couple of times. A couple nights ago, they had looked at the constellations together. Zuberi really liked Nea. If she liked him back in the same way, he couldn't tell. She seemed to like him enough not to take of running whenever he approached her which he supposed was a good sign. She was so much more confident than he was. Sure, he got spurts of it but he had definitely gotten his mothers personality. Nea did like him, though. He was sweet and his attempts at flirting were the cutest thing she ever witnessed. More than that, he took his role seriously which showed her he had a strength in himself that he either didn't notice or didn't admit to. He was also gentle.
"Here we are!"
She pushed past some ferns to reveal the pool and falls they had visited together on their first outing. He smiled at the memory but turned to her with a confused look.
"Why here?"
"Well, we didn't really get the chance to enjoy it last time we were here. This is your first day off in probably forever and I wanted you to see the best part about this place."
"The best part?"
With a mischievous smile, she pushed him into the pool before jumping in herself. After some sputtering from the unexpected swim, he chuckled before swatting a paw- and a wave of water, in her direction. The water was tepid but refreshing nonetheless. Moving to a shallow spot he laid down on the rock with his limbs still submerged, the sun warm on his back. Nea laughed and joined him on the rock, laying surprisingly close.
"Enjoy your swim?"
"It was... unexpected. But it was nice." He glanced at her. "Was pushing me in really necessary?"
"Would you have gotten in otherwise?" She gave him a teasing grin which had his face grow hotter. When he turned his head down, she mused. "That's what I thought."

(497 Words)

[Tiger♥Bear]

D2 : Write a 400 word scene/story of your choosing involving your pride members

Zuri tilted her head side to side stretching her neck. She was returning from a hunt with the rest of the hunting party. The group had to work on their coordination now that the line up is new. Faraji and Marjani had been sent to the Msitu wa Baridi region. Nea had requested to be stationed in the valley. Sikudhani had just joined the ranks now that she was considered an adult. Sefu and herself were the only two who remained. Without a designated leader for the party, it made things a little difficult. She wondered if they'd ever be assigned someone to run the hunters. Until that day came, they did what they had always done: rotate through the members. Today had been her day to run the show. They had, unfortunately, been unsuccessful. She kicked at one of the rocks on the ground as they made their way back to the main grounds.
"Don't worry about it, Zuri. We can try again tomorrow."
Though her words were meant to be comforting, Zuri just gave Nea a blank stare. She was more upset with herself for letting down the group.
"I'll make sure of it."
"Sure you will, Sefu. Because your plans always work, right?"
"Think yours are better, Sikudhani?"
The two pushed against one another in a playful if not rough manner. Zuri shook her head. At least it wasn't Faraji and Sefu getting into it about who was better. They had gotten better about working together towards the end, but this was clearly more relaxed than that. Probably because Sefu was the only guy now in a group of huntresses. As they got closer to the lake, she could see the king and queen meeting with two lionesses she didn't recognize.
"Just be sure you guys are ready for tomorrow. See you guys then?"
The others mumbled back various responses which she didn't pay much attention to as she approached the newcomers. Both lions were dark. One with dark eyes, dark fur, darker markings, and splashes of lighter spots. She looked lean. They both did. The other lioness... Zuri couldn't help staring. A bit lighter than the first, but still darker than herself. A pale collar like marking with a matching chin spot. Amber hued eyes with a fire behind them. She had spots like Zuri. Soft. Looking at her, she could tell there was nothing soft about this lioness. She was close enough now she could hear parts of the conversation.
"...a tribe not far from here. We're searching a new home."
"Of course." Imamu, the king, bowed his head with a large smile. "You are both welcome here. We don't have a group of warriors, per se but I think we can work something out for you. As for hunting, we could always use another hunter."
"Speaking of which." Asha spoke up as she noticed Zuri. "How fared the hunt today, Zuri?"
"Not as well as we had hoped, your majesty. I hope tomorrow turns out better." She kept her focus on the queen but could feel the eyes of the two strangers on her.
"I'm sure it will. I'm glad you're here. Tasmari here is a huntress and she will be joining your ranks." The darker lioness stepped forward with a nod of greeting. Zuri returned the nod.
"Welcome to the pride, Tasmari." She turned back to the rulers. "I'll see to it she's introduced to the other hunters."
"Very good. And Zuri? Don't be so hard on yourself." The kings smile never wavering. She smiled softly in return before getting ready to lead Tasmari to the others. "Now, Agni? If you come with me I can introduce you to the royal guard. I think you'll do wonderfully in that role."

(628 Words)

[Tiger♥Bear]

D2 : Write a 400 word scene/story of your choosing involving your pride members

The sun was still up but with the mountains blocking the light it appeared to already be dusk in Msitu wa Baridi. Kamili was returning from patrol of the region with the new guard, Auni. It was nice having more than just himself and his brother in the pride. It had only been the two of them for a couple days but seeing the pride steadily gain members filled him with...well, pride. Auni was a young lion but capable. Kamili had gotten to know him over the last couple days. Now that Auni was a member of the guard it would benefit them both to know more about each other. If things went the way he wanted, Auni spoke of convincing his two sisters to join the pride. Perhaps they might. Tambika was a unique lioness. Swift not only on her feet but also with her words. She was an excellent courier. Tishala was one of the earlier members who had been a cub found in Maeneo ya Kufa shortly before he was born. She was currently off duty with one of her cubs, Mosiya. The newest member is Subira, the healer's apprentice. She was the second daughter to the healer Naigh in the main pride. Learning the trade from her mother, she came here to do her work so members wouldn't have to travel to the valley for care or force Naigh to come to them. They had lost Nea as a hunter but gained Faraji and Marjani. No doubt Nea wished to be closer to his eldest brother. He didn't get to leave the region often as he was the ruler, but whenever he got the chance to visit the valley it was unmistakable the way his brother stared at that gray lioness. His brother was totally smitten. He was happy for him, if not a little jealous. He was still young so there wasn't a rush to find a mate but he remembered Asha actively searching for someone to rule at her side when she became the ruling queen of the pride. It wasn't just for herself, but for the pride. It was a sign of stability. This leads us back to a member who joined shortly after his guard companion. Chausiku.
She had been sent to him as the new head hunter by order of the king. Her skills must be exceptional if she was deemed the head hunter. Though why she wasn't assigned to the main pride he didn't know. She was definitely unique. She was striped. Not that that was unusual. Tishala sort of had stripes and Nuru, the seer, had stripes. More than that, her fur looked...heavier. Fluffier. It was probably useful out here in the coldest region of the valley. Maybe that was why she was here. Had she possibly requested moving here because she could handle the cold? It wasn't bad most days, but it still got bitter. Whatever the reason, he was grateful. She was the most stunning creature he'd ever laid eyes on.
There had been problems. She seemed to lack energy throughout the day. In fact, on more than one occasion the other hunters came to him to wake her up. She tends to sleep in. But why? He'd never really asked her. It wasn't really his place. Unfortunately it was his place as lord of the region. If it affected her duties, he needed to know what was going on. He told himself he'd talk to her first thing tomorrow. With everyone now starting to turn in for the night, he himself made his way to the den. Movement caught his eye. Even in the dim light of the last rays he could see someone sneaking out of a den further down. Curious, he changed course to investigate.

(631 Words)

[Tiger♥Bear]

D2 : Write a 400 word scene/story of your choosing involving your pride members

This was the hardest decision he had ever had to make. His life made a turn...or a few...that he had not expected. Months ago he had wandered to clear his head. To find himself. That self discovery turned into running for his life from a wildfire. This led to exhaustion and injury in a foreign land. Not only that but it led him to Sultra. A lioness with small wings on her back. Lucky for him she was a healer. They had spent a lot of time together as he recovered. He had to keep out of sight from the rest of her pride, which he didn't mind much. Some days he told himself he needed to return to his own pride. But there had been something... something that was keeping him here. Fate? Destiny? Miracle? Whatever it had been...it changed his life forever.
Even now as he neared the border of the valley, his paws covered in red dust from the dried dirt of Maeneo ya Kufa, he thought of those two perfect little cubs. His cubs. It's crazy to think of all that's happened since the last time he was here on the plains of Ukumbi wa Paradiso. Too much time had passed. He should've come back sooner. Not that he wanted anything that has happened to change. No. He was afraid his pride worried about what had happened to him. Poor Khamisi... he'd left the knight alone in his duties while he was off finding his purpose. He needed to reassure them. Let them know he was okay- better than okay. That wouldn't be the difficult part. Deciding what he was going to do now... the journey was a long one. A dangerous one. It was why he had left both cubs with Sultra. They needed their mother now. He hated leaving them, but he had to do this.

He paced in the small cave, the soft sound of rippling water echoing off the walls accompanied by soft mewling of this young cubs. "I knew I should've done this sooner. How can I leave now?" The blue lion stopped his pacing to look at his new family. His gaze was one of adoration conflicted with pain. "I can't leave you here alone. I don't want to leave..."
"It's the right thing to do."
He sighed softly before walking over to press his forehead to hers. "I know. You're right, I know. It's just...hard."
He felt her press back gently in reassurance. Warmth spread through him. After a moment, he took a deep breath and pulled back to look at her. "I'll go and explain what's happened then come right back. I promise."

"I promise." He said the words aloud as he remembered the last moments with them. He could see members wandering the land, some even turning his way. Those he didn't recognize taking glances and those that did murmuring softly among themselves. As he neared the royal den, Imamu stepped out. His face was uncharacteristically serious.
"Kibwe." The blue lion bowed deeply to the king. "It's been a while."
"My king. I apologize for my absence. I have failed you as a knight and I-" He paused when the king raised a paw, cutting him off.
"It would appear you are fine. I take it something happened to keep you away for so long?" By this point, Asha walked out and joined her mates side, anxiously awaiting the answer as well.
"Y-yes." He bowed his head to the queen before continuing. "It was not my intentions. A wildfire pushed me further than planned into foreign territory. I overexerted myself and had injuries that prevented me from returning sooner."
"Surely these were not serious enough to cause your disappearance to last so long."
"No, ma'am. I was fit to come back sooner, only..." He paused and gave a small smile despite the atmosphere around him. "I had a new duty to uphold."
"Oh?"
"I couldn't abandon my family."
Both the king and queen looked surprised. "Your family?" The king asked with a soft smile.
"Yes. The lioness who saved me... I promised I wouldn't leave her and the cubs gone for long. I wanted to let you know I was alive and well. If you'll still have me, I will return to my duties when the cubs are old enough to leave their mothers side."
The king looked to the queen who gave a small nod after some thought. His smile growing, the king turned back to Kibwe and nodded. "You are temporarily relieved of your knightly duties. Family comes first."

(766 Words)

[Tiger♥Bear]

D2 : Write a 400 word scene/story of your choosing involving your pride members

Kamili could barely see the silhouette of the lion who had snuck out of the den. He tried to follow with stealth but occasionally stepped on a fallen branch or tripped over a stone. Silently he cursed his clumsiness and pressed on. It was late. Everyone should be turning in. Why was this lion out? It was too dark to make out who it was and he was too far away to notice any distinguishing marks. It looked feminine, if he had to guess. But that didn't narrow it down much. He should have just called out to them. Asked why they had left. He pressed on. Surely where ever the culprit was trying to go wasn't too much farther. They were nearly at the small lake. It seemed to darken, the trees tall and inky black against navy sky with small pinpricks of starlight. The closer to the lake they got, the darker it appeared to be. Just when he felt he couldn't see anything, he broke past the treeline and out beside the lake. The moon was out in full tonight, bathing the lake in its soft glow. It was the brightest spot in the forest, no doubt. Now with some light to see by, he could clearly see who it was that sat by the lakes edge. The amber striped coat belonged to only one of his members. Chausiku. His heart caught in his throat at the sight of her sitting by the dark water.
"You need lessons in stealth, Lord Kamili."
He nearly jumped at the sound of her voice. He should have known she knew he was following her. He hadn't been very successful with doing so with finesse. "Yes, I suppose I do." He continued to move forward till he was a couple feet away from her then sat down on the lakes shore. "I'm sorry if I'm intruding."
"You're the lord. I assumed you would find out eventually."
He tilted his head to look at her, confused. "Find out?"
She turned to look at him and sat silent for a moment. His heart beat faster as he looked into her molten orange eyes. There was a steady fire within them. Then suddenly she turned back to look out over the lake. "Yes. The reason I'm not so active during the day."
"Oh. Right." He looked at her a moment longer before also turning to look out over the water. He sat silently waiting for her to continue. After a minute or so of silence, she gave a soft sigh. So soft it was almost inaudible.
"I've adapted to hunting- living at night. My family, for many generations, is nocturnal. I'm not used to being so active during the day. It's quite the change. I will adjust, I just need time."
He nodded his head in understanding. "Of course. Take as much time as you need. If you need help transitioning..." His words trailed off. "Actually, I don't know how to help with that, but I'd be willing to help you regardless. All you need to do is ask."
From the corner of his eye he saw her glance at him as if considering him than gave a short nod. "Thank you. I appreciate the offer. I may take you up on that."
He turned to look at her, their eyes locking again. The spark within him rekindled as did that alluring flame in her eye. After a...moment, he cleared his throat. "Let's start with returning to the dens. Even if you don't fall asleep, laying down and resting will help."
She blinked once before standing. "Right. Of course."
He stood as well and they walked back towards the mountains in silence.

(618 Words)

[Tiger♥Bear]

In Character Breeding : 500 Words

Pair : Nea and Zuberi

"How did you know it was the right time to, you know, settle down?"
Tendaji smiled at his oldest son, Zuberi. The poor boy was shaking with nerves. He took after his mother's shy nature but Tendaji had known he was more than interested in the spunky huntress Nea. She seemed to show interest too, often taking the charge in their outings. "Well. I guess it just came to me. I knew I wanted to be with your mother. She was going to be the only one for me. After that, it was a matter of just going for it. I told her how I felt."
"So... I should just tell her I like her?"
"I think she knows at least that much. If you're really serious about her, tell her that. She either feels the same way and you guys can go from there or... well, let's start with the positive, huh champ?" Zuberi gave a weak smile, obviously still unsure of himself. Tendaji nudged him gently on the shoulder with a paw. "Don't worry too much about it. Just go and be yourself."
"You really think that's best?"
"I think she likes you more than you think. Have a little faith in your old man. Now go get her before the hunters take off for the day."
Zuberi nodded his head lightly. "Thanks, dad." With a deep breath he made his way toward the side of the pond where the hunters met before a trip. His sister was already there and she was joined by Sefu. The newest member Tasmari could be seen making her way over. His heart hammered hard in his chest. His nerves were through the roof. Why couldn't anything ever be easy? Just when he thought he couldn't feel more anxious, he spotted Nea also making her way. He'd have to catch her before she got to the rest of the hunters. Taking another shaky breath, he made his way toward her. He went over words in his head, trying to find out what to say. Nothing seemed right. She seemed to notice him as well and gave him a cheeky grin.
"Zuberi. Having a good morning?"
"I- uh..." He mumbled. This was definitely not going the way he wanted it to. He was taking too long. Her grin fell slightly giving him a more serious look.
"Everything alright?"
He closed his eyes and took a deep breath, counting silently to ten. He was grateful for her patience. His nerves, and probably his pride, couldn't handle it if she decided to be her usual teasing self. "Yes. I think we need to talk."
"...oh?"
"I... Look, I don't know how to really say this so I'm just gonna say it. Nea? I like you. I want to be with you. I think you're beautiful. I love the way you talk about the things you love. I love hearing about your past and the things you hold dear. I- I needed to tell you how I felt."
"Zuberi-"
"You don't feel the same do you?"
"What? No, I-"
"I knew this would happen. Ugh! I'm such an idiot. I'm-"
She cut him off with a kiss before he could finish. His shoulders were still tense with nerves. After a moment, she pulls back with a smile. "I was going to ask you what took you so long to tell me."
His head dropped in embarrassment. "Oh. Really? I can't- But... Are you-"
"You talk too much." She leaned in again and this time he started to relax.

(592 Words)