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 Posted: Tue Dec 30, 2008 5:37 pm
Behind him slunk a bright blue cheetah, it was hard to see the cheetah and think he was a brave and confident dragon he was named for; however, there was no fooling Kolo. He knew his dear friend very well, this latest turn in behavior was temporary and would not hold, and for that he was certain. Ryuu wanted to be part of the coalition for the safely, and because yours truly was a member. A soon as Ryuu spent a few moments with the Lady Aaliyah, he’d be as stuck as he was the moment he saw her. While his heart was taken, the broken heart of the friend with him was ready to be open again. Kayin was not right for his Lady, but if the two saw each other fit, Ryuu would be just the cheetah for her that he could not be.
The official line is that he wanted Aailyah to approve his friend to be a member. He was up to nothing, not a single thing, well nothing harmful. Looking back to the ice blue eyes of his companion, he thought he might still have to kick some sense back in the cheetah and remind him his belly is gold, not yellow. Whatever lady found him before he found his way back to the coalition really did a number on the poor guy. However, it was his Lady’s happiness and safety that came first, Ryuu would understand and agree soon enough.
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Posted: Tue Jan 27, 2009 10:55 am
Aailyah had heard through the grape vine of Kolo's great rescue. The coalition greatly adored noble stories and soon the tale was elaborated on so dramatically that even Aailyah became skeptical of how great Kolo's abilities were.
Typically, the female would have been quick to introduce herself and welcome the guest to their paradise, but something was keeping Aailyah back. Perhaps it was the absense of Kayin and her fear that she might lose herself in the hurt male - becoming caught up in his wounds and her desire to help him. Aailyah had come to learn that she couldn't help everyone and that was exactly why Kayin had left. She did not want to replace her old friend or trick herself into believing that this new cheetah needed her. It was for that reason that when Aailyah saw Kolo padding across the coalition alongside his friend that the white female ducked low beneath the tall grasses nervously.
Breathing out slowly, Aailyah thought quickly to herself. Just what was it that she was afraid of? Becoming hurt again? If Kolo knew both her and this male and still wished to introduce them, perhaps he knew that she would be safe in his company. Aailyah recollected the aggressive relationship between Kolo and Kayin and shook her head. What if Kolo was simply trying to make Aailyah forgot the king cheetah from her past?
Aailyah's thoughts quickly dissipated when the matching sound of paw steps finally caught up to her. Lifting her body from the grass rather nervously, Aailyah let out a light laugh. "Oh, Goodness. I didn't realise you were there."
Thaka, having been perched atop a tall tree simply shook his head as he watched his dear friend make a complete fool of herself. He had kept tabs on both Kolo and Ryuu and reported back regurally to the leader, against her wishes. Upon coming to the conclusion that the two male cheetahs had pure intentions, the avian decided to leave Aailyah to her own doings. Thaka couldn't help her with everything. She needed to grow and learn on her own.
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Posted: Tue Jan 27, 2009 2:54 pm
Kolo stopped when the white angel appeared, though he did give her an incredulous look at her comment. He thought about mentioning that he should stay near her more often. It was hard not to notice the blue and gold male to his side and they weren't being especially careful to be quite.
For the purpose of this meeting, he was going to let that go. Smiling warmly, he dipped his head in respect to Aailyah, "Lady Aailyah, this is Takeshiryuu, a cubhood friend of mine who wishes to join the coalition. Ryuu isn't being himself; he normally lives up to his name sake. I will personally vouch for him; I know he will do very well here." There was very little Kolo would put his reputation on the line for, but Ryuu was a great friend, and he wanted to do what he could to impress him upon the fair Aailyah.
Ryuu dipped his head also, silenced by awe. This lady was beautiful, a complete stunner. Her voice was lovely, though he could hear the waver in it. Staying a few steps behind Kolo, he was still wary. The last time his eyes and heart tempted him forward, bad things happened.
Swallowing he finally peeped up, the baritone in his voice softened because of his current uncharacteristic demeanor, "It is a deep honor and pleasure to meet you, milady. Kolo and Nadifa speak very, very highly of you." Thats all Kolo did was give raving reviews, when he wasn't protecting the lands and doting on his family.
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Posted: Sun Feb 01, 2009 3:55 pm
Aailyah watched Kolo's expression appear curious at her comment. Feeling a growing warmth in her cheeks, the coalition leader looked away for a moment to regain herself. Her cheeks were still a pale pink when she returned her gaze to the pair of males to properly introduce herself. With a bow in return, she spoke warmly, "It is a pleasure to meet you Takeshiryuu. Please only call me Aailyah. I do not ask to be treated so highly." She shifted her gaze to Kolo and couldn't hold back a light laugh. Aailyah had dreamed of the creation of the coalition, but she never imagined herself leading the group. The way the cheetahs thought so highly of her was both flattering as well as unnecessary.
When Kolo continued the introduction of his friend, Aailyah nodded. She had heard all, but the male's full name before and so expected that he had wanted to join them. Smiling still, Aailyah continued, "I would be entirely pleased to welcome you to the coalition, Takeshiryuu. If you are a close friend to Kolo I can only imagine you are a wonderful cheetah. There are various positions you can take up in the coalition and I am sure that Kolo has told you a bit about our traditions. You are welcome to choose any duty for yourself as well as a symbol to represent your family."
Aailyah looked back to Kolo almost pleadingly, hoping for a sign that the male had told his friend about both their lands and ways. The gorgeous white female did not resent her task of having to explain everything to new members - she just found it became boring reciting the same thing repeatedly. "If you would like, I could explain any questions for you."
By the nervous antics of Aailyah, Thaka was surprised to hear her final offer. Did she mean she would walk alone with the male to clarify things or that she'd be happy to continue their conversation? Thaka remembered Aailyah's policy of wanting to get to know each coalition member and share at least one conversation one-on-one. The leader felt that this personalised their relationship and strenghened the bond of the group. Thaka flapped his wings overhead and positioned himself more comfortably. Ah, this was certainly going to be interesting!
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Posted: Sun Feb 01, 2009 4:43 pm
Kolo listened and watched, Ryuu didn't like being called by his full too often. It was a formal thing and the blue cheetah is far from formal. This was part of the reason, he wanted to see if Ryuu would get over himself and state that.
Smiling approvingly, he was very happy that Ryuu was accepted, he knew he had a lot of time to work on them. Help would be great, but he was playing match-maker, he could get it done.
Ryuu did nothing the first time she called him by his full name, meek still. The way she did say his name was beautiful, no detracting from that. Finally, he had to say, "Lady Aailyah, please do call me Ryuu, if you please." There was a little bit of that old fire showing up, if she would call him by his full name, he thought it was only fair to use her full title.
That smirk from Kolo made him withdraw a little, but not by what Kolo did exactly, but he became aware of how he was behaving and thus shrunk back. "Ye..yes, Kolo told me a lot, I am staying with his family until I find my own, as Kolo says."
Questions, did he have any questions? Well, a tail hitting his side reminded him of the chiding he got earlier so he showed a bit of spine again, "How can I find you if I have more, or want to confirm someone's answers." He gave Kolo a look, this was the cub he grew up with and he knew the Cheetah's old ways.
Kolo for his part looked as innocent as he could be; pretending he had no idea what Ryuu was talking about.
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Posted: Sun Feb 01, 2009 4:55 pm
Aailyah nodded when Ryuu requested that she not call him by his full name. It was understandable because the name was quite a mouthfull. While Ryuu called her 'Lady Aailyah', once again, the cheetah simply smiled and allowed it to slide. She wasn't planning on arguing with the cheetah over what he wanted to call her.
When he asked where she could be found, she made a gesture towards a simple den a ways away. It was on the same level of ground as all the others and was only distinguished by the large circle of orange flowers that grew around it. By the large flower tucked behind the cheetah's ear, it was obvious she was a fan of the beautiful flowers that managed to grow despite the dry soil of the savannah. "My den is simply a short distance a way and anyone is welcome to stop by and ask me anything. My son, Chura, is also available to answers. He will be taking my place once he reaches adulthood."
Aailyah, innocently continued their conversation, unaware of just what Kolo was setting his friend up for. She looked over Ryuu curiously as she awaited his answer. It was strange to think that the bold Kolo made such a cautious companion. Perhaps the male was not always like that?
Thaka, relieved that the small group of cheetahs did not notice his presense continued to watch curiously. He remembered how much Lesedi enjoyed hearing gossip and a new factor in Aailyah's love life would certainly interest his dear friend. Thaka thought for a moment about the blue bird that had come from so far away to also speak with Lesedi. Thaka shook the thought from his mind and returned his gaze on Aailyah. She seemed to be doing well.
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Posted: Sun Feb 01, 2009 5:10 pm
He wouldn't call her Lady again, to her face. Its not something to say behind her back in malice, but she seemed so humble. However, listening to Kolo, who never seemed to shut up, it, fit her so well that she deserved the honors.
Observing, he could see she loved flowers, it would be a great way to show her he was grateful she allowed him to stay. Idea in mind, it was decided that he'd find a few flowers and leave them by her den, hopefully when she wasn't there. Nodding, he mentioned, "Kolo has told me who Chura is, though I have yet to meet him. I will come to you when I have questions, Aailyah." He felt uncomfortable, even more so the now, to come to someone he had never met and ask questions of them.
Kolo would have loved to know about Thaka, but sadly the little bird was the wrong side of the wind for him to even scent him. So, thinking he was the only one observing them, Kolo scanned the area, ever the royal guard he was. They would be fine, he fully trusted Ryuu. Even as skittish as he was behaving at the current moment, that protective dragon would burst through the gazelle skin in a moment to protect their Lady, loyalty beats scars.
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Posted: Wed Feb 04, 2009 6:36 pm
It seemed the longer Aailyah remained in the company of Ryuu, the more her confidence built back up again. His discomfort was comforting to her, a similarity they shared, at least for the moment. When he mentioned having heard of Chura, Aailyah smiled brightly. The doting mother adored all of her offspring, but as her only son, Chura held a special place in her heart. Having not met Chura before it might be difficult to pick out the similarities he shared with his mother. Clarifying for Ryuu's possible encounter with him, Aailyah spoke up, "He's a bright green colored cub with darker green spots and some tidbits of white. I think he got more from his mother on the inside." Aailyah let out a light laugh. She didn't think much about Chura's father, but the comment seemed to trigger a few past memories in her mind. Glancing away for a moment, she gathered herself once again and returned her gaze to the pair of males. Don't stumble now, Aailyah.. she thought to herself.
Hearing a shuffling coming from overhead, the pale cheetah glanced up in time to see Thaka shifting his weight once again to find a more comfortable position. Narrowing her eyes, Aailyah gave him a 'what are you doing?' sort of expression.
Thaka, having been surprised it took the group so long to find out he was there only grinned and flew down to perch on her shoulder. "Yes, m'lady?" He said courteously, taking a short bow before her. The bird was quite a character when he wanted to be and often times Aailyah's solemn moods inspired him - she always said it made her smile. Looking back to the pair of males, the bird finally decided he'd had enough and it was time to intervene. "I must say, you're doing a rather poor job, Kolo." Thaka began, eyeing the gray cheetah. Quickly after he directed the newcomer, "Ryuu, I think it would be best if you had Aailyah show you around the coalition. There are so many beautiful sites to see."
Aailyah, finally seeing what the pair of sneaky males were up to made a face to the bird while Ryuu's attention was not on her. She felt her cheeks become warm and she sighed. With her pale colored fur there would be no hiding her blush!
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Posted: Wed Feb 04, 2009 6:57 pm
Keeping his head lower, Ryuu to some comfort in hiding behind his friend. He knew Kolo well, but didn't see this side of the crafty cheetah. Kolo was a protector, so he was safe. Too bad his idea of safe was not Kolo's.
Hearing Aailyah out, he figured she had a mate, a green one at that for her son to be of that color. However, seeing her expression as unwanted memories returned, the male impulsively stepped forward. His wary blue eyes turned into concern instantly. One more step, he remembered himself with the introduction of a new figure. Every flap of the bird's wing had the cheetah retreating even more.
Watching the bird, he stuck close to his friend and listend. It was the mention of Kolo doing a bad job that had a bit of the spark in the male kindle. Stepping forward, he was going to try and defend the gray male but was stopped by a gray shoulder.
Tensing at the idea of being alone with Aailyah, the looks Kolo was giving him made him a bit antsy. He'd been wounded so much, to trust himself alone with a lady who had also been hurt was asking for trouble. Not asking, apparently he was being served up on a platter. Slinking forward, he shot a glare at Kolo, unable to look at the bird as such because that look would never be thrown at a female who had been an innocent victim such as himself. "I would like to see your lands, Aailyah, would you please escort me." And get rid of the bird and Kolo, they seemed to be working together, but for what means he couldn't understand.
Kolo was also watching, that look on Ryuu to Aailyah's sadness was just what he was banking on. Both of them were hurt, why not heal each other in the process? Ryuu is a soft heart, a protector especially for a Lady in need. Aailyah was a blessed soul; to ignore this unfortunate uncomfortable shell of a cheetah would be beyond her. Now Thaka, speaking about him that way, he was lucky he liked him. "I am afraid I have been doing my friend a disservice. I am sorry you have to fix my mess, but it would also help him to know Chura if you find him." He had nothing against the heir, but finding the green cheetah was the last thing he wanted them to do. A romantic walk around the lands towards the night, it was perfect!
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Posted: Wed Mar 18, 2009 4:40 pm
Aailyah shook her head when both Thaka and Kolo began to speak so openly about their plan. She couldn't believe that her closest friends were setting her up for something that would make her so uncomfortable! Making a face to the pair of them now, Aailyah stood and began to pace around the group in preparation for the walk. "I would be glad to show you around, Ryuu. And I am sure both Thaka and Kolo have other things to keep them busy..." Typically the coalition leader wouldn't be so uncomfortable about a simple stroll with a new member, but the way in which Thaka and Kolo spoke, it seemed as though they wouldn't be satisfied with a brief introduction. For some reason they really wanted the pair to get to know one another.
If Aailyah was going to walk around with Ryuu, she wanted to be sure that the medelling bird and cheetah couldn't get any deeper in their business! Making a gesture with her head, the pale female began to lead in the direction she thought they might start. Aailyah glanced to Kolo and smiled warmly. As much as she might have been irritated with the cheetah, it wouldn't last long and he had done a great deed in her eyes. With an affectionate voice she bid her farewell, "I appreciate you welcoming your friend so kindly into the coalition, Kolo and I hope that we won't wait so long before our next visit. I do miss hearing about the cubs and Nadi."
Kolo's support caused the bird to grin and let out a light laugh. With Kolo's temper there was no knowing how he might have responded! Aailyah's response, however, caused the bird to puff up and look to her with a guilty expression. He wanted the female to enjoy Ryuu's company and have someone to take her mind off of Kayin, but he didn't want to force her into doing it. As she began to pace, the bird flew from her shoulder and landed back on the branch above their heads.
Glancing up, Aailyah narrowed her eyes on Thaka. "I wouldn't mind if you stayed with Kolo, Thaka." She teased.
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Posted: Wed Mar 18, 2009 5:12 pm
Ryuu was feeling very set up, he trusted Kolo and Kolo turns around to toss him into the lions den! Well not really true, more like throwing him to a lovely Cheetahess who seemed as out of sorts about it as he was. It was relatively fine to mess with him, but he resented them plotting against Lady Aailyah.
Smiling a little to her when she agreed to show him around, even more so when she conspired to send the conspirators off. He adored his friend, it was now a bit disconcerting to have him around while Lady Aailyah was there, the slick gray cheetah was very much up to something, the bird he didn't know.
Taking the cue, he walked toward the direction, stopping no less than five steps from the lovely white lady. His small smile grew a bit warmer as he listened to her talk to his friend. No matter what he was up to, Kolo was still his treasured friend.
Kolo looked no guiltier then a cat that brought a mouse to the den, he only had their best interests in heart, after all. Proudly he told her, "I do the best I can for my friends. I will not wait, the cubs are growing by the moment there is much tell." Talking about his family was his favorite past time and he already planned on dragging Ryuu along. Aailyah would probably like to hear how wonderful an Uncle Ryuu was, he'd be even better if he could be dragged out of his shell.
Ears perked he looked to the bird in question. Well, this was an opportunity given to him by the Lady herself. "We have not spoken often Thaka." And there was so much to talk about, to plan and work towards. The two of them could make quite the team in this endeavor.
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