[PRP] So we finally meet

[Meepfur]

It was a good day so far, an uneventful one - uneventful was always good. For all the fuss some of lionesses liked to make about himself and Bangizwe being unproven and unworthy because they hadn't come by their roles in the traditional manner, they were doing a good job. The pride was healthy, unwanted rogues were kept at bay (more than most probably realized), and there were certainly plenty of cubs running about.

Of course, most of those were Bangizwe's. It was hardly a surprise, given how vocal some were about their disdain for his pelt color; he half-suspected that, were not a select few so disapproving, the rest wouldn't be particularly bothered. In all honesty, neither was he. He had a good life here, far better than he'd ever had, first as a reluctant 'demon' and then as a rogue...what did it matter that Bangizwe was more 'popular'? Thus far, his own children seemed to be doing well enough. Nolaka's three were full-grown, and Siantaidh's would soon be old enough to to begin seriously considering their Ukuzalwa. And, as he liked to remind his fellow Umholi when the topic came up, all seven of his children so far were female.

None of that was neither here nor there at the moment, nor was it on his mind. Patrolling was, keeping a careful eye out for rogues, particularly troublesome hyenas, or any other undesirables. It was a duty he took very seriously and, despite all the doubts cast at him, performed quite well. He stopped along his route for a drink and a brief respite at a small waterhole, and before long glimpsed the approach of a dark form: a brief cause for alert, but it soon became apparent that it was only a Cinga, Liyana.

When she greeted him and professed hope that she wasn't disturbing him, he smiled and dipped his head courteously. "Not at all, Liyana. It's a pleasure to see a friendly face. Have you and Avani spotted anything interesting today?"

He made sure, very sure, to know everyone, vultures included; he certainly didn't know any one of them well, not even close, but he at least knew their names.

AstoriaFallen

Sorry to be so slow, so much craziness lately.

 

[Meepfur]

"That is good news. I'm sure the Abazingeli will be pleased, and Bangizwe as well. He can continue to grow fat." It was difficult to tell from his tone whether he was serious or jesting, but the faintest ghost of smile passed over his expression and was soon gone again. He and his fellow Umholi had both put on a healthy amount of weight since assuming their positions, though Andhaka was naturally the leaner of the two. Perhaps that was another reason he didn't have so wide (ha!) an appeal? He was a good size, a bit larger than average, but built to be a bit sleeker, not some great and hulking thing.

"Thank you," the male acknowledged the congratulations with a pleased rumble "They are healthy and strong, and their mothers seem pleased. I am certain if Nolaka had complaints, she would not have hesitated to voice them." A brief chuckle accompanied the statement. Keep her opinions to herself, Nolaka did not...fortunately for him, her opinions on him were favorable.

"Nothing especially noteworthy, no. I had a...territorial misunderstanding with a honey badger to the south a-ways, those little heathens have no concept of manners." Another small smile, subtle as his expressions usually were. Wide grins and demonstrative displays were rare outside of Bangizwe's company. Amongst the lionesses, everything was always calculated, always proper.

AstoriaFallen

Than you! 8D So excited for little natural babies.

 

[Meepfur]

"Me? You must be mistaken. I've bathed recently, you see, so my mane is fluffier than usual." This was said with complete seriousness, no tiny smiles or joking tones, just a straight-faced, unamused expression. He was playing, of course, but that was the point.

"I'm sure you would have," he said with a twitch of a smile. "I, on the other paw, am quite thankful that there were no witnesses. Or at least, not that I know of."

When Liyana asked her question, Andhaka shrugged. "Of course. It is one of my duties as Umholi, after all. Ultimately, however, the decision isn't mine; I can only wait to be asked."

AstoriaFallen

 

[Meepfur]

"As you may have noticed," he began to clarify, "I have not been in high demand... Ah. I see. Forgive me, I thought you were only making conversation." The red-furred male dipped his head slightly in apology. He was, of course, quite pleased to be asked, though he remained as composed and polite as ever. It would have been unseemly to respond in any other way.

"If that is your wish, Liyana, I would be honored to oblige you."

AstoriaFallen

itty bitty phone post, sorry.

 

[Meepfur]

"Perhaps this is an instance in which I should not speak so formally as I usually do. I do not wish to come across as crass and cause you to reconsider your choice." He chuckled and ducked his head again, a wordless apology. "I'm pleased that you've asked me. You're a strong and attractive lioness, and I would be...more than pleased to sire your cubs, yes."

In truth, he could only think of one female he might turn down, but even then...well, the situation was unlikely to arise, he assumed.

AstoriaFallen