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 Posted: Fri Nov 07, 2008 11:39 am
He was hunting.
Normally he wouldn't be caught dead doing this. It wasn't that he thought males should never hunt. No, he encouraged everyone to do their fair share of everything, it was his way to make everyone equals; males and females alike. However, Kidondo would be the first to admit that as far as hunting went, he was rather useless.
Prey here was hard to find, in any case, but with the uneven ground and his blindingly red pelt, the prey tended to spot him a mile off. A shame really that he'd spent his childhood learning about everything other than to disguise himself on approach to a herd.
So, the reason he was hunting today?
That was simple.
No.
His mate had been ravenous lately. Food was not plentiful here. It was enough to feed lions who ate as average lions should. But No's stomach had seemingly turned into a bottomless pit. Even frequent hunts had not seemed enough and Kidondo was not going to ask the hunting party to go out yet again.
So, he'd taken it upon himself to find a meal for his mate in hopes that it'd help ease the hunger pains.
Maybe it was the stress of being Regent that had gotten No like this? She'd never eaten more than the average lioness before and she'd been slender and sleek since the day they had met.
He knew he shouldn't worry about her, but he loved her dearly. He loved her more than any other. When something was up he worried. It was what he did.
So, in his sights was his prey.
It was not a hare or a rodent or a herdbeast. It was a lizard. A large scaly lizard with tearing claws and a spiny back. It had warty marks near its eyes and a large, blunt snout from which protruded a sleek, black tongue.
It turned its head with a jerking movement and Kidondo saw the gleam of its serpentine eyes.
He leapt.
The lizard was crushed against the rock it had been warming itself on. Its powerful tail lashed upwards and caught the lion a hefty blow on the shoulder. Kidondo, surprised at the fight in it, put his jaws to its head and bit hard.
The flailing stopped and, victorious, Kidondo lifted the catch gently up in his mouth.
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Posted: Mon Nov 10, 2008 9:56 pm
Unlike the open plains and their solid foundation Mteketezo was finding it a bit challenging to even walk as her paws sank within the sands. Each step seemed to make her feel as if she was simply walking in place or taking a step backwards which left her wrinkling her muzzle and almost taking leaping strides in hopes to be able to get somewhere. Behind her, her tail flicked in a slightly irritated manner while the young adolescent already was feeling the sun beat down upon her brilliant red, black and white fur. Granted it was the desert but it seemed that the stories others had told her before about it wouldn't be worse than what she had heard. It must have been her good fortune for being born a female for if she had to carry around a thick mane Mteke was sure that she wouldn't have been able to come this far.
As empty silence filled her ears the lioness was left to simply ponder upon her mentors request. Of all places why had he sent her here? Ezriel had explained that those who lived within the desert held the same values which he was so deeply rooted with yet, at the same time, the answers were still mysterious. Though she respected him and didn't she at least deserve to adhere to his order as he was the very lion that saved her life? Yes. Though there was a part of her that would miss him Mteketezo'roho was sure that perhaps one day the Gods would allow to cross paths once again.
She continued to struggle, walking through the sands into the unknown. Just as mysterious as the male was, Ezriel had only left her with the name of a pride of which she was to find; the Motoujamii-Simo. But, still, the mind games and unknown outcomes played across her mind which was dangerous enough considering that Mteke suffered from memory loss here and there.
Flicking her ears to flatten against her skull as a warm breeze kicked up the loose sands, Mteketezo bit her lower lip. "I hope I'm not lost," she mumbled, furrowing her brows as she looked around. Sand, sand, sand and more sand and wait- oh no, just sand. How anyone became acustom to navigating the land was beyond her! Pale, violet eyes strayed to the side as she could feel both the feeling of a letdown and frustration begining to sink in while her eyes strained. She saw something move in the distance but it was more than likely that the desert heat was quickly starting to play games with her. Mteketezo'roho looked away from the shape in the distance and shook her head.
"Just a lion," she sighed.
Even before her mind could go over what she had just said, the lioness snapped her head back in the direction as her eyes widened. This- this was no mirage! It was real! Just as the unfamiliar scent wafted within the air and tugged at her nostrils Mteke diverted towards him. Even if one was to watch her trudge through the sands perhaps it was obvious that the young female was certainly out of her element but seemed to be on a mission. Coming within a few lengths away Mteke was starting to pick out that it was indeed a male and a very, very large male to be exact.
There was a part of her that stiffened and silently prayed to whatever deity was listening that this male would be friendly or at least point her in the right way but, at the same time, she was trying to formulate a hell of a good plan if the situation turned bitter.
Mteketezo'roho could only plead that it wouldn't come to that.
Inhaling a deep breath as it seeemed the male had just finished catching small snack, the lioness stepped forward as her previous appearance full of fright and cowardice seemed to shed from off of her.
"Excuse me, sir?" Her voice was calm, reserved although holding a tone of respect seeing that, in this case, she was the outcast. "Do you know what direction the Motoujamii-Simo lands are?"
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Posted: Tue Nov 11, 2008 6:51 am
She wasn’t hard to miss.
She was brilliant red; a flare of fire amongst gold.
He caught a glance of her from the corner of his eye and after a moment of quiet stillness, turned his head slowly towards her. She was a young, not yet fully grown, but her colours were reminiscent to a Firekin, so much so that his immediate thoughts turned to her being one of them. However, it was her youth that stilled him from rising to the offence. There had been youngsters in the traditionalist group, but surely they’d be older than this one by now?
As she drew nearer his suspicions were confirmed. She did not walk well with the sand but trudged doggedly onwards despite the difficulty. She had stamina that was for sure. He was also impressed that she had made it this far alone. For she certainly was alone – a quick glance of the scenery confirmed that.
So then, she was not a Firekin and young though she was, she’d put her life at risk by battling the desert. For what reason? Was she a relative of one of the rogues that he had brought with him in the war? Was she a half-blood child of a long lost Firekin of old? Or had she simply heard rumours of the pride?
She spoke then and he realised he’d been staring.
He turned towards her, dropped his prey at his feet and regarded her through eyes that were blank of any emotion. He tended to prefer looking like one who neither liked nor disliked the situation.
Her question took him off guard a little – though he did well to hide it.
“The Motoujamii-Simo?” A pause. “Yes, I do.”
He didn’t like to assume, but his mind was already weaving a reason why she was here. A young red rogue battling the desert. Why else would she do that if not to seek a home with the red lions that dwelled there? What other reason could it be?
“But they are not safe lands to seek, traveller. The lions there do not appreciate trespassers and joining rogues are few and far between.” In fact, Kidondo and No had only recently decided to open the doors to suitable candidates. That didn’t mean they were going to open the door to any red rogue that happened by, however. No, each of them would be tested and each would need to serve a purpose.
If this child wanted to join, what purpose would she serve?
“What do you want from the Simo?” A test was already starting to form in his mind.
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Posted: Tue Nov 11, 2008 3:32 pm
Her posture kept its rather cool composition as Mteketezo watched the massive male turn towards her. There was no emotion etched within his face which only made her feel that he was neutral or perhaps would rather be elsewhere than having to deal with her. She looked up to him, leveling and keeping her pale, violet eyes with his as he spoke. At his first answer the young lioness felt a relief as if she was a step closer to adhere to Ezriels request. But as she continued to listen she could feel something stir within her.
Ears flicked if only slightly as she listened. The Motoujamii-Simo lands were not safe? She had known of the background concerning the recent war between the pride and what they called the 'traditionalists' and perhaps she should still expect disrupt and the rise of more conflict between the severed pride yet Mteke wouldn't let that drive her away.
To think she had worked so hard to train under Ezriel and learned of rebellions princicples and defining foundations that the reality of what she could very well find herself in, well- that was if she could even get a paw into the land, would be still couldn't deter her away from trying. Perhaps it was silly for her to think that she had a purpose to live as the massive lion known as Ezriel had spared her life and took her under his watch and maybe everything that she had learned, everything she believed and could never deny would help her finally not only belong somewhere but fight for what she believed in.
And then the queston came: What did she want?
Mteke exhaled softly as she tried to find a me secure footing within the sand. Her thoughts seemed to race silently within her mind but as she was trying to deter the haze and fog away from her mind, the young lioness swallowed.
"I want to fight," she replied. "I want to fight for them."
The young lioness continued to keep her eyes with those of the massive male before she continued. "My mentor trained me upon his founding principles of rebellion- he taught me not only how to fight but the founding principles of what it means to truly fight for what you believe in; strength, unity and determination. I want to prove myself and fight alongside those who believe in the same cause." She knew what a decision like this entailed and what consequences could very well come but nothing could persuade her to fight for something else. There was something inside of her that wanted to fight for the rise of a powerful pride who was paving the way for a future of greatness like none had ever seen before and Mteketezo'roho wanted to help build it.
It wasn't for glory, for power or greed- it was purely out of the desire to not only fight for what similiar beliefs she held but knowing that she could be part of something and be someone who had a place or belonged.
"I'd rather fight and die for something I believe in rather than dying without a cause or a purpose," she remarked.
How the male would react to what she said Mteke didn't have the faintest idea. But at least she had said what her true intentions were and already she could feel something stirring inside of her. Perhaps she wouldn't know why Ezriel instructed her to attempt to join the Motoujamii-Simo but at least Mteketezo'roho was trying rather than shirking off the order that had been given to her.
What this would lead up to she didn't know- was this just as wild goose chase? Or what would the Simo see in here that would make them see her as a potential candidate?
Mteke didn't know.
But whatever would come of it she'd give it her all.
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Posted: Wed Nov 12, 2008 7:49 am
Kidondo did what he did best. He observed and he listened, picking out the details from the confident move of meeting his gaze and the relaxed but guarded posture she held. This one made him curious, though he wasn’t sure why. He had a feeling she was going to hold many surprises.
He wasn’t wrong.
He held her purple gaze, searching for a hint of an answer in them. Purple eyes. His sister had had purple eyes, from their mother he guessed. He couldn’t remember much of Karama, the female who Kidondo had used for heirs. Sad, really, that his father had never been touched and blessed with the love that Kidondo and his mate shared. Maybe if another female had loved him so, things wouldn’t have turned out so badly.
Purple eyes. They disconcerted him. Yes, they were not the same shade as Koka’s, but the colour was reminiscent and he had only seen sarcasm and hatred glimmering in hers. This child, she was different. Very different. She was eager to prove herself, so much so that she’d risk her life to do so. It reminded him of himself – and No – in that respect. And as he looked into those eyes he thought he saw a familiar face.
The last of his nervousness left – to be replaced with surprise.
“Fight?” The questioning word was out before he could stop it. Maybe he should have guessed, from her determined aura, but he would have thought her a huntress or something of the like. Any hunting test he might have planned died right there in his head. Well, he couldn’t fight her to see if she was strong enough – he wasn’t the type of lion to fight females even if it was only a spar. Besides, she was young and tired.
Very well then, he’d keep her talking a while and find out what she was really like. No could wait a little longer for her snack.
She followed up her answer then and his eyes lit with interest. Fight for a purpose. Well now, that’s what he wanted to hear. Not fight for the love of causing pain or for the sheer thrill of it. Fight for something she believed in. He nodded approvingly.
“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to be rude. I must admit that I didn’t expect fighting to be your reason for seeking the Simo. Now that I think about it, you certainly are a fighter. You’ve already proven your determination and strength just from being here. No doubt they’ll see that too. Not many rogues can make it across the desert, especially lone rogues and especially ones not yet in adulthood.”
He smiled. “Where did you learn to fight? From your colouring I mistook you for a true Firekin until you drew closer. Did you have relatives that lived in these sands once?”
He paused. “Sorry I don’t know your name and I haven’t introduced myself either. I am Kidondo. Pleased to meet you.”
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Posted: Wed Nov 12, 2008 9:10 am
A slight surprise of his reaction caused the young lioness to perk her ears slightly. She was perhaps expecting a mocking laugh to proceed from out of his great maw but rather he seemed as if to not expect such an answer. She had once heard it from many others that she was too small or could never hold her ground in a spat or brawl but unknowingly Mteke had honed and sharpened her skill under the watch of a great fighter. It wasn't the desire to cause pain and harm to others which stirred up the need to fight but it was the underlying cause and purpose to fight for something which drove her.
When one was fighting for something it gave them a purpose to life and some say that one would never truly live until they found something worth dying for. Even though she was still young Mteketezo'roho could be seen as someone who had already found that purpose and fighting the good fight alongside those who shared the same ideas and concepts.
Strength, unity and determination- it all tied together in how she had been taught and came to understand the ways of the Simo by her mentor.
As she seemed hesitant of what the great, large in stature, male would think, a wave of relief seemed to come as she caught him nod what seemed to be approval of a decent answer. Mteke exhaled softly as if a great weight seemed to be hoisted off of her chest as her paws shuffled within the sands to find a more steady grip. The young lioness shook her head accompanied by a reassuring smile. "No need to apologize, sir. I'd be cautious too if someone unfamiliar was treading around." Listening as he continued to speak, Mteketezo's eyes widened slightly. He though she was a fighter? There was something inside of her that stirred even greater than before- perhaps a greater flicker of hope and determination coursing through her veins. The males words were encouraging and she certainly hoped that those of the Simo would see what he saw.
"I hope they do," she commented with a nod of her head. "I've heard about then and their recent battle with those they call the 'traditionalists' and their old ways. I would be honored to fight alongside the Simo though who knows what they'll think. Crazy maybe but I hope they can give me a chance."
The young lioness smiled a bit broader although behind such a smile there was a part of her struggling to remember. Family? Yes, that was a bit of a complicated subject that Mteke felt she could never decipher fully. "To be honest I can't remember my past. I know, it sounds like a cliche' cop-out but I struggle with long term memories." Flicking her tail, the lioness bit down on her lower lip slighty although bolstered her emotions and repressed them. She would have to remember that in any situation to keep a level head even when out of the battlegrounds. "The only thing that I can remember or know from what I've been told is that they died by crossing into foul territory and somehow I'm- well, here."
Mteke shrugged her shoulders. "But there's no worth dwelling on the past. Live for today but look forward to tomorrow, huh?"
At his second question, the lioness perked her ears."I learned under my mentor- he found me and raised me. His name is Ezriel and he taught me these founding principles of rebellion and how to not fight to kill but to fight to live. Ezriel always talked about the Simo and how he respects them- he said that the Simo were the only pride who knew how to bring about rebellion and change for the better and that it would be in the Simo that I could prove myself."
With a break of silence Mteketezo'roho paused as she blinked slightly while a bit of a broader smile crossed her lips. "Kidondo. Its an honor. My names Mteketezo'roho. I take it you are part of the Simo then? You seem knowledgeable of their ways."
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Posted: Thu Nov 13, 2008 7:24 am
He had to admit he was curious. He wanted to see how she fought, how she used her smaller size to her advantage. She’d certainly be faster than him, in any case. He had great strength, but like most males, speed was not his greatest asset. Again the connection was made to Koka – swift and deadly. Yet this girl was so different from his sister that he told himself to stop seeing similarities.
This girl had honour.
And he was more and more convinced of this as she spoke. She was speaking true, he could tell. He had always prided himself on being a good judge of character. This girl spoke with an honest heart. What reason could she have to lie? Besides, her eyes were clear and just. Maybe a good liar would have fooled him, but until that day he would rely on his instincts with others.
“They would be foolish indeed to turn you away without first giving you a chance to prove yourself. You’ve spoken well enough to me, Mteketezo’roho.” He smiled. “And you’ve guessed right. I am indeed a member of the Simo. I must say I’m glad that rumours of our battle have spread to the outside lands. The desert has seen a very difficult change but I must say things have been looking up - more so if the rumours are bringing young rogues such as you to these very lands.”
Should he mention his title? He would, but not just yet. He wanted to speak with her on equal terms and he certainly didn’t want to put her on guard by mentioning his status.
“We don’t judge others on their family or history here, unless it brings danger to the pride. So long as you can provide a useful and needed service you will be welcome to stay. You have the strength and heart, I can see that already. Your pelt blazes as a Firekin’s does, too.” He continued. “Sometimes memories are blurred to allow the mind to heal. Maybe yours will be returned to you someday. Either way, you are right, the past is in the past and you are clearly looking to the future – just as we all should.”
He listened with undivided attention to the story of her mentor. “This Ezriel sounds like a wise lion indeed. Perhaps I shall get a chance to meet him someday. Clearly he taught you well.” Then his mind turned to uses for this girl. In fact, she was probably more useful than she realised. There was so much potential there, potential that would only grow with time. He didn’t like to look too far ahead, but visions of promotions flared in his vision.
“The Simo have recently put together their guard force. There is a General who overlooks the guards and the soldiers and a newly appointed Captain of the Guard to make sure that our borders are never unwatched. Now that this is in place action is being made to form an army, an army that will be greater than any pride has ever seen. You’re arrival could not have been better timed. I think you’ll find that the Firekin will be more welcoming than you imagine.”
He stood and made a gesture for her to follow. “If you’d like to hear more I’d be glad to tell you on the way.”
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Posted: Thu Nov 13, 2008 10:59 am
Hope seemed to kindle greatly within the small lioness as she looked up towards Kidondo, listening intently to each word he spoke as his words only brought even more determination to flow through her veins. Wouldn't Ezriel be proud? For a moment her mind slightly wandered to think of her mentor wondering if somehow he was watching or would ever come to know that she was soon to fulfill his last request. Although the male was quite a strange one it would seem that he certainly had taught her well. Mteke could feel her heart beating with a newfound rhythem, the pulsation increasing as the large lions words only filled her with great optimisim.
This could be the start of a new begining.
"Thank you, Kidondo. I do hope I can prove worth to them," she replied, dipping her head low in respect to the great male.
Her ears perked up and stood errect and attentive as the great male spoke. Hearing that he was indeed part of the Simo made her eyes widen slightly to expose her pale, violet hue as well as a smile curling upon her maw with excitement. "Yes, many know the story and I'm certain that your prides legacy will only grow and bring about a change that is needed," she commented with a nod. "You're leaders and fellow pride members certainly are heroes."
Never had she imagined that her pelt would be likened so similar to those of the Firekin but it seemed that somehow she was perhaps destined to join the legacy of which the Simo were weaving. Mteketezo'roho continued to feel inspired by Kidondo's encouraging words and felt that Ezriel somehow knew that she was suppose to be here or find the Simo- it seemed that life was, in a way, perparing her for something greater and slowly the young lioness was starting to find it one step at a time. Never had she imagined that of all places she would find herself here; seeking to prove herself to one of the lands strongest prides whose values and ideas were synched with those of her own. Everything just felt so right.
"Thank you, Kidondo. You're too kind- truly." How she had been so fortunate to run into a member of the Simo was beyond her yet truly it was a blessing. Maybe if he saw the same thing then it was possible that the king and queen of the Simo could see it as well? She hoped so. The lioness again nodded her head and smiled. "Someday I think my memories will return but for now I will strive to put my efforts towards other things- there is much to focus on and much I can do to help others."
A slightly broader smile stretched across her maw as a light laugh escaped. "Yes, I think you would like him. He's a bit elusive but he values the Simo and what they've done and thinks that they will only bring about a new powerful influence upon the lands. Perhaps one day he might venture here although it seems that he wanders across the lands." Yes, Ezriel was a strange one but a very knowledgeable one indeed. Although where he was now Mteke hadn't a clue though hopefully one day he'd show up again and come to know of what Mteke had made herself into.
Again as she listened ever so closely to each word Kidondo spoke, Mteke couldn't agree more; the Firekin sounded even more amazing than she had ever imagined! To hear of them construcing a guard force who surrounded their borders as well as an armythat was to be greater than any prid had ever seen or encountered with mind blowing. Mteketezo'roho could only imagine herself in the battles front alongside others, fighting for the good of the pride, its leaders, and their beliefs. Her paws shifted underneath the sands as she exhaled softly if only to imagine the adrenaline surging through her veins.
"A guard force and an army- it seems that the Simo is certainly more than I have ever imagined. Words alone simply can't express how strong a nation they are," the lioness commented.
She was somewhat surprised as the male made a gesture for her to follow and as she glanced into the direction of which the gesture was made and back up towards him, Mteke nodded. "Yes- yes of course!" She stumbled just a bit in her speech as already her heart felt as if it was soon to burst from out of her chest. "I'd love to hear more."
Stepping forward as her paw continued to slip and sink within the sea of sand, Mteke took a deep breath.
"Tell me everything- I want to know all abot the Simo."
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Posted: Fri Nov 14, 2008 10:08 am
Heroes? What an unusual way to describe the pride. A smile touched his maw. "That's one way of describing us, perhaps. We did what we did for the sake of our future. Heroics didn't come into it at the time, but it was done in order to save future generations. I suppose that could qualify as being heroic." He nodded thoughtfully.
A hero?
When he'd set out to do this thing, he'd never thought that it would make such an impact on the way outsiders saw him and the rest of the Motoujamii. Yes, he'd wanted to save his kin, but he'd done more than that. He'd awoken something. Something bigger than he could have imagined.
He filed the name Ezriel to his memories, making certain to remember it in case he ever came across the lion. He could make a good ally. A teacher of cubs. A lion of wisdom and advice...in fact--
--He cast his gaze back across at the young female, thinking that she'd probably make a good teacher herself. Clear and concise with her speech, clearly knowledgeable and confident in her abilities. Yes, he'd have to keep that in mind for when she'd earnt her trust and respect. Though...maybe she'd already done that, too. Either way it was an option to think about when the time came. He just hoped that No and the others were as taken with her as he was.
"Very well. I'll tell you as much as I can before we reach the dens. If I bore you, feel free to stop me." He cleared his throat and moved into a comfortable walk - only then remembering the forgotten prey on the sand. Dammit, it looked like No would be waiting a lot longer than she expected for a snack this time.
He cast a look over his shoulder and grimaced. No good. He couldn't talk and carry it at the same time. With a sigh and a shake of his mane he made a silent promise to come and retrieve it later - unless some other critter came and ran off with it.
"The army will be formed of a handful of lions of different ranks. The lion at the top is the General, at the moment that title belongs to a young male named Azarax. He's not a typical Firekin in his looks, but his heart and mind are as fierce and noble as they come. I'm not sure where his tan pelt came from, but it has brought difficult times upon him. However, since the rebellion he has proved himself a mighty and instinctual fighter. He beat me in a sparring match, that's all I can say. It is his job to select jobs to join the army that he governs. Strictly speaking any Firekin cub could be taken up as a soldier, but that wouldn't be practical. Instead, the little ones are observed for any heightened skill. Once the selection process occurs, the cubs are apprenticed to other soldiers who train them until they reach adulthood. It is the General who decides which cub is apprenticed to which soldier."
He paused. "Stop me if I'm going too fast."
Kidondo loved talking about future plans and the roles of his soon-to-be army.
"Beneath the General is the Sergeant, otherwise known as Bodaway. He's a more typical Firekin, wise and with a lot of battle experience. Its his job to test the juveniles' abilities in a duel before they are officially recruited into the army. He'll generally keep an eye on all the soldiers and apprentices and make sure they're being trained effectively." He paused. "He pretty much enforces the General and make sure everyone is doing their job properly."
He smiled, waiting a moment before continuing further.
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Posted: Mon Nov 17, 2008 9:49 pm
"Heroes most often seem to be born when one doesn't realize it," Mteketezo commented as a soft smile crossed her maw. "Either way I'm sure the Simo and its members have weaved a legacy due to blossom."
Although it seemed while Mteke had lived in the outside lands there still resided those who thought of the Firekin as brutes and vicious felines; craving the rush of adrenaline and others who deemed them as barbaric and savage. Though that wasn't the case- it wasn't open violence or senseless acts but there was a deeper story and truth to it all. The Simo had taken their future and molded it for the better and although those opposed never fathomed such 'radical' change it certainly would prove a change for the better.
As Kidondo agreed to speak more deeply about the Simo, Mteketezo'roho's eyes lite up as she couldn't help but smile a bit broader. Although she was certain that nothing of what the great male would speak would bore her, the young lioness listened wth great intent if almost on pins and needles. But it seemed that Kidondo was leaving his small prey behind and obvious as it would be near impossible for him to speak and carry it at the same time she was left with a simple idea. Though they had been walking for a bit was there any hurt in going to retrieve the spiny reptile? Mteke had caught him glancing back at the meal and nodded her head.
"Yes. But I think you were hoping to carry that lizard back home, right? I'll carry it for you." Before giving the male a chance to decide, the lioness trudged back as swiftly as she could while paws still ambled and sunk deep within the desert sands. Admittabley it was clear that it would take time to become acustomed to walking on the strange surface but sooner or later Mteke hoped that she would be able to blend in as a 'true' Firekin.
Picking up the prey by the tail, Mteketezo'roho stumbled back quickly just as it seemed that that Kidondo had begun to speak about the different ranks. Although she had missed the beginning of it it seemed that she had understood the jist of it all. If she remembered correctly, or heard correctly that was, Kidondo had spoken about a male named Azarax who was a bit different than most Firekin but weilded great skills and selected others to join the army which led into cubs becoming apprenticed to other soldiers which, also, was dictacted by Azarax. It made perfect sense! Secretly she did hope to meet this Azarax; he sounded like an interesting individual.
With intaking and understanding so far, Mtketezo nodded her head albeit a bit carefully as to not ruin the great lions kill. "Amazing," she awed although muffled by the tail delicately caught within her teeth.
More information flodded her attention and the lioness perked her ears upward with an eagerness.
So Azarax was the General and underneath him was Bodaway, hmm? It seemed that the Sergent certainly had his paws full with testing the youth in battle abilities and deciphering true potential to be admitted within the army. The structure of the army and how it was formulated seemed simply perfect and even flawless! If Ezriel knew then Mteke was certain that he would adopt the same principles. There was a complexity to the Simo yet, at the same time, an unmistakable power that the pride seemed centered around. Power in strength, unity and determination, one could be sure. Mteketezo'roho admire it greatly.
Continuosly attentive, Mteke nodded her head as sh glanced up towards Kidono searching for whatever else he was willing to speak about. Curiosity and a thirst for knowledge was soaking up everything he was allowing her to know and this only left the lioness wanting more.
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Posted: Tue Nov 18, 2008 8:05 am
“Thank you.” He replied as she offered to carry the catch in her jaws. It would free him up for talking, allow No to have her snack and earn this youngster even more points than she already had. A girl of honour, dignity and manners. There could be no rogue that was more perfect for the Firekin than she. He waited a moment as she moved to fetch it then moved onwards towards their destination.
As he had described the role of General and Sergeant the terrain had shifted around them. The great dunes of the desert were falling away to flatter land and beneath their paws the soft, unmanageable desert was becoming firm and compact. Walking was easier here in the Simo, maybe because of the years and years of the steady tread of gargantuan lions.
Kidondo continued in his matter-of-fact voice, realising how much he enjoyed talking about the pride, about the plans and the roles and all the work involved. Saying the names next to titles also made him realise that things were progressing steadily. As Mteke had said, they were blossoming. Things were really starting to happen. Her presence here was proof of that. He felt a swell of pride in his heart then. For No’s achievements. For his achievements. But mostly, the pride’s achievements. Each and every one of them had achieved something whilst being here. Azarax. Bodaway. Kibela. Kaanga. Even the quieter ones who would normally have kept out of sight and out of mind. He knew why. It was because everyone felt they had a use. Every title meant something here. There was no more royal titles to get in the way. No Lords and Ladies and Princes and Princesses who would be treated different from others. Cubs were cubs who became apprentices and their skill dictated what they would become.
He continued then, confident that Mteke was finding the information useful.
“Beneath the Sergeant are the Captains. There are two Captains and each of them governs a different aspect of the army that is soon to be set in motion. There is one already in place. Her name is Uuo and she is Captain of the Guard. It is she who keeps the Guards in line, makes sure that the borders are always patrolled and sets up rotas so that all the guards know where they are supposed to be. Uuo is a blunt but capable lioness. She was one of the rogues who helped us in our battle by posing as a slave until we were ready to make our move. She’s new in post, though I believe she has made some exceptional progress.”
He took a breath. “The Captain of Offence has yet to be recruited. It will be his or her job to mind the soldiers, keep an eye on their training and health – to make sure they’re ready if a threat ever does happen upon the Simo. They help the Sergeant in keeping track of apprentices and the level of their development. It is also his or her job to make sure that the training schedules in place are suitable and realistic for each individual depending on their needs.” He grinned. “And, every rank is open for Firekin of both genders. It was decided, at the very beginning, that females and males should stand as equals in every aspect. If a female becomes pregnant they will be temporarily retired from their position until the cubs are old enough for them to regain it again.”
He led them onwards, the oasis to their left. The water sparkled brilliant blue under the sunshine and clear, open sky.
“Guards and Soldiers are then beneath the Captains. They’re rank can alter depending on the amount of apprentices they have. Apprentices equal skill level, so if you have one, two or even three to teach, it shows you have the skills and abilities that may see you promoted someday. Captains and Sergeants may also have apprentices, though they tend to only take the most gifted.”
He swished his tail. “That’s it for the army, just about. There are further ranks. Ranks I’d like to call Social Ranks, which I have yet to delve into. But only if you’re interested. Shall we stop at the water for a drink?”
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Posted: Fri Nov 28, 2008 11:48 am
While the strange reptile swayed to and fro as its tail remained caught within her maw, the terrain certainly was becoming something much more than seas of sand. The ground underfoot was becoming dense, more compact and sturdy. Even as the surroundings certainly were changing Mteketezo'roho found that the information given to her by Kidondo was more than useful; it was both enlightening and inspiring. To think of the struggles that the Simo had endured and to now bear witness to their achievements and success was a testament to the power of such a people. It seemed even more astounding to think that it all started with a simple idea, a change of mind and a different perspective to bring about such a radical rebellion which has truly brought about a new beginining yet even though there were losses it was what was gained which seemed to outweigh the severed ends.
As Kidondo continued, Mteke listened again just as intensely as before. She was begining to understand the ranking and titles which played a crucial role in the Simo. Ah, so the Sergent was in control of two captains? Her ears perked slightly with a slight flicker. It seemed that one of them was named Uuo, Captain of the Guard; keeping the guards in line, watching the borders and establishing rotas. It all seemed so well thought out and crafted- weaving webs which every member of the pride had a place and wasn't just another face in the crowd but belonged there and held a role of which everyone was just as important as the next. This is what Mteke admired.
"It seems as if the Simo's design is flawless," she replied as best she could, trying to keep hold of the spiny lizard while making her speech somewhat understandable. "Your King and Queen certainly know stratagey."
Before she could again silently contemplate her mind seemed lured again as the great male spoke.
Captain of the Offense? Mteke's tail swayed in a slight curious flick behind her as her head tilted ever so slightly. But perhaps the most interesting part was that such a position had yet to be recruited, not to mention it was also open to either male or female- as was any other role within the Simo. The idea of minding soldiers, helping them and watching them train seemed somewhat appealing but perhaps she was jumping too far ahead. She couldn't think too far especially as she had yet to see if she would be accepted within the Simo. Although time would only tell, and felt as if it was soon to come, of what the verdict would be, if there was one, the young lioness would have to keep the idea at the back of her mind.
Curiosity seemed to cross upon her maw silently for now as she nodded along as Kidondo continued describing the ransk of guards and soldiers which seemed to complete the army. Although a ever so slight smile curled upon her maw Mteke tried to wisk it away.
Upon approaching the oasis, there still was a feeling that stirred within her. Perhaps it was excitement or remnants of coursing adrenaline through her veins yet it all just felt so right. Strange wasn't it? Being in such a new place and feeling as if she belonged here. But then again time would only tell of how she would measure up in sight of both the King and the Queen. Looking toward Kidondo, Mteketezo'roho nodded her head.
"Social ranks- I'm interested on what those are," she commented. "And I drink would be good. I'd imagine there aren't many places for water around here."
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Posted: Sat Nov 29, 2008 7:05 am
He smiled, feeling slightly guilty that he hadn't given his rank yet. He didn't like to keep things from her, but sometimes his rank did get in the way of such things. Either way, he'd get to his job soon enough. He'd leave it until last, just to be safe.
"The structure took a lot of work, but yes, if there are any flaws to be found they'll quickly be filled. We're still in the development stage, the testing stage, making sure that everything slots together nicely." So far so good, though he'd be prepared if there were any slip ups.
He moved over to the water's edge and lowered his head to drink, to refresh his throat after so many words. He wasn't usually so chatty. In fact he preferred to listen in most circumstances. However, he felt compelled to speak, compelled to tell this female all about the Firekin. He had high hopes for her and he didn't want her to miss out on anything that might aid in her ambitions. At least, she seemed like an ambitious sort.
"Water is a holy thing to the Firekin. It is a rare and precious gift. Without it there could be no life here, not for lion or for prey. Respect the water and it will sustain, but abuse it and it could shrivel away."
He took a moment to give the female time to drink before continuing on the rank system. "Every rank is important in the Firekin and so I don't like to use the term 'low rank'. It seems to make those in such a position feel more lowly, not worthy. But in truth, every Firekin here could fight if they so wanted, even if they are not part of the army. They are all necessary for the balance and thus are all important."
He paused. "We, of course, have the hunters and the huntresses. These are the lions and lionesses who hunt the food in order to sustain our pride. Food is hard to come by and sometimes the hunting trips can last for days on end. But without them we would not be able to live here long. They are crucial to the survival of the pride and skillful in their job. Hunting out in rogue lands is hard enough without having the desert around you." He glanced across the rugged terrain. "Then there are the cub sitters. These are the Firekin who are not so inclined to fight. They're generally the ones who've had experience of cubs or those who don't show much of an interest in fighting. I have to admit there aren't many Firekin who would turn down a fight, but like any pride, we have our gentle types." He smiled. "They are also essential to allow the cubs' parents to go about their duties during the day. They also help raise the Huria - children born with unnatural colours who cannot be permitted to stay past adolescence."
"One of the more important social ranks are those belonging to the Teachers and Storytellers. They are one and the same. They are in charge of teaching all the pride - especially the cubs and the joining rogues - the history of the pride. They hold the legends and the stories, the morals and the lessons. They hold the key to knowledge that must never be forgotten. A history that is forgotten is destined to repeat itself, or so they say. The Firekin cannot let their history be forgotten or else we could turn back down the path of shadows." He grinned wryly. "The Storytellers are Kaanga, my sister, and her now fully-fledged apprentice, Nootau."
Remembering, he added hastily. "When cubs reach their juvenile age, they are chosen to apprentice themselves to a particular skilll. Many will take the route of a hunter or huntress, or even a soldier. They seem to be the most popular of skills, though time will have to tell. When apprenticed, they are matched to a suitable adult who will teach them the ways of their craft until they are adults. When they reach adulthood they are considered masters of their skill." He drew breath. "The only ranks that do not take on apprentices are the Magistrates and the Regents - whom I will talk about in just a moment."
"Any questions?"
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Posted: Tue Dec 16, 2008 7:04 pm
Somehow it was a bit hard for Mteketezo to believe that their structure was still in the developmen stage as, from an outsiders point of view and all that she had heard, it seemed unlike any other that had ever been crafted. No doubt there was a great sense of precision and acurracy developed that could heighten the skills that members weilded and, in turn, created an even greater powerhouse and opponent. Although Kidondo explained that they were making sure that everything fitted together nicely it seemed that such a thing had already happened. But precision was needed, especially in the Simo, Mteke thought. For their success and conquest to be mad inevitable there needed a great foundation laid out and it seemed that the only thing left to come was for the pride to reap the rewards.
The young lioness nodded her head as she continued to soak up the information with ease. "I can only imagine success with such a great structure devised," she commented. "The Simo are... are amazing."
Her manners had insisted that the great male be first to drink as these were 'his' lands and she being an outsider certainly could wait her turn. Paws shifted among the sands as she stepped forward while her violet eyes danced across the waters relfective surface. Just as she lowered her head and tongue began to lap at the surface her ears continued to perk upwards, almost pining for each spoken word.
Back home, the water was pelentiful, coursing through the rivers and streams with no one having to worry about its own demise. But here, in the desert, it seemed that this was a completely different scenario; water was precious, a holy life sustaining element that, without it, prety and lion would shrivel away. Mteketezo could only imagine that any source of water found out here was a blessing! As she only drank what she would need to stay hydrated, the young lioness lifted up her head and nodded. This was a lesson well needed- and, in a way, perhaps there were other things that could corellate and benefit from the same treatement.
Just as she had finished it seemed that the crash course on 'Simo 101' continued. Kidono then seemed to discuss the ranking system that was used which had secretly intrigued her. Ezriel had divulged upon the subject once or twice before but being able to truly know the in's and out's of such a well forged organization certainly was inspiring. Like Kidono said, everyone was necessary and needed for the balance of the pride and were important. That was something that made Mteke feel that choosing to come here to prove her worth to them was the right choice. Being able to fit in and still make a difference was worth more than being a nobody in a pretigious pride or coalition. Here she could have both her face and name known- no longer would she be a creeping shadow.
Quickly she was making mental notes of the different ranks. It seemed basic; the hunters and huntresses hunted the food and without them no one would survive long within the desert. Next there were cub sitters; those who didn't have to fight or weren't partial to the idea of shedding blood had the most experience with cubs which allowed the parents to attend their duties. Already the young lioness was starting to see the benefits and connections that each rank and pride role held. Then came the teachers and storytellers; teaching the pride its history, legends, stories, as well as the individual morals and lessons behind each one. Somehow a small smile slipped across her lips as she nodded, following along with ease.
"The past will be more keen to repeat itself when the past is forgotten, just as you described," she commented. "Your understanding of the importance of such subject matter is amazing. Although I guess that's from living within the Simo, huh?"
Just as the last bit of information was added and compiled within her mind, Mteke smiled and shook her head. "I think you covered all of it. I feel like I'm starting to get the hang of how it all ties together."
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Posted: Wed Dec 17, 2008 12:04 pm
He would have blushed if such a thing was possible for a lion. Besides, he was red-pelted as it was so it wouldn't have made much difference in any case. However, her compliments made him feel accomplished, made him feel that he had done something worthy. Something that rogues would come to respect - and fear if they felt the need.
He bowed his head gratefully.
The outside world was very different from life in the Motoujamii. It wasn't easy to live anywhere in this world - for their were always dangers. But the climate, terrain and lack of water and herds made it all the more difficult. He loved it, however. Loved the challenge it offered. It gave one an appreciation for life that thye didn't in the outside world. Kidondo knew, because he'd been out there. He'd seen the bountiful lands of the Pridelands, where No had been born. He had seen the ravaged landscape of the Elephant Graveyard and seen the sparkle of the ocean. These things seemed long ago and distant now. Yet, no matter what beautiful sights had greeted him, none had been more beautiful and welcome than the sight of the desert.
His home.
This was the way it should be. There was no place like home. It was in your blood. In your soul. The desert was a part of him, just as it was in those who loved to live here too.
"I..." He paused. "I spent a lot of time observing as a youth, watching the pride making their foolish mistakes, refusing change despite the fact it spelt their doom. I also spent days outside of these lands, wandering in an attempt to find the answers to my questions. I'm not sure if I found the answers to all of them, but there were many simple answers that were easier to discover than many make out."
"I hope this is not too much information at once. All that is left to explain now is the council. The council is an important part of this pride. Members are elected into service by the pride for their intelligence and ideals. They are not a gathering of stuffy old elders whose only concern is with themselves. They are a group of individuals who wish to better the pride. They are not rulers. Instead they give guidance, establish rules and roles and make sure things run smoothly. There is no royalty here anymore. That was abolished with the change. So, a son of a hunter could become a Regent if he had the strength and the wits about him. The pride wants to see members flourish and that means not condemning the children of hunters to a life of hunting when their skills could take them so much further. Does this make sense to you? It's...a rather hard concept to explain."
He chuckled. "In any case, council members will generally be elected from the storytellers - as they are the ones who show sharpest wit at birth. It is hoped that the varied membership helps to reach better strategies for meeting tough decisions when they come. So far, no decisions have yet to be made, but one day there will be a need for it and when it comes, it will be in place."
He paused. "The General is on the council to give his opinion on strategic and battle issues. He understands his work; battle arrangements, weaknesses and strengths and so his opinion is invaluable with decisions such as going to war, or dealing with other such matters. Alongside the General sit the two Magistrates. One of these is already in position. Her name is Kibela. A dark-pelted lioness with red eyes. She was a rogue who came to help us in our battle. Kibela is like a sister to me. Very wise and calculated. Kibela is not one who acts on an impulse. She is a thinker, a weaver of words. The other Magistrate place is currently open, though hopefully it will be filled sometime soon."
He paused. This was it then. He felt sort of bad about keeping this information until last. Oh well, might as well get it over with. "Head of the council - and the pride - are the Regents. You could think of this pair as King and Queen, if you will, for they are a mated pair. However, unlike a King or Queen, they cannot act or do anything without the council's consent - on big issues, of course. Most of the smaller issues are dealt with by the Regents alone. Big issues include things like punishment for those who have broken rules, going to war, or the consideration of allowing a member who could pose as a threat. Any situation that does not have a clear answer must be brought to the council by the Regent pair. Basically, issues that concern the pride as a whole are brought forth for discussion."
He drew in a breath. "The female Regent is No. She is a black lioness with green eyes. She is also my mate."
He held himself then, waiting for the information to sink in.
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