|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 Posted: Mon Dec 29, 2008 8:31 am
Deciding to take one last look around - just for old time's sake - the lithe leopard gently lowered himself out of the tree he was reclined in, claws grasping at the tree bark to steady himself, as with one, graceful leap he landed square on his paws. Tail swishing from side to side, the male casually and leisurely began to walk through the jungle, unconciously making his way towards the watering hole. Looking around him, he smiled - it was so beautiful here. Why his heart wanted him to leave, he didn't know, but he had to follow it. It was almost like he was searching for something - or maybe even someone. When he'd find it (or them) though, only the Gods knew.
The watering hole was quiet, pleasing the leopard as he lowered his head to take a sip, grateful for the cool liquid running down his throat. He really was going to miss this place.
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Mon Dec 29, 2008 8:44 am
Yes, he had struck fear in to the young leopardess but the heavy scars that marred her once lovely coat were a good excuse to stay away. She couldn't face living through that hell ever again. . .
So, it had been silently and with a soft apology that she had left Qiovi. Trailing quickly Uhuru had found herself travelling over mountain and plain before entering the depths of a local jungle. It was a beautiful world, full of crafty hiding holes and trees to perch upon; there was an abundance of prey and plentiful streams and rivers of water. It was indeed a sport of paradise and a place the pale female found herself lingering within. There was no rush for her to leave, after all; a bit of a wanderer Uhuru's home was wherever her paws took her.
But thirst had plagued the leopardess this afternoon and the scent of water was near. Moving silently through the trees, the leopardess was only too glad to lay eyes upon the cool waters of a local watering hole. But, of course, she just couldn't be alone to drink. Lavender eyes narrowed ever so slightly as she caught sight of another leopard taking a drink. . . .
A male at that.
Well, logic told her he was on the opposite end of the pool and far enough away that he shouldn't be a problem. Qiovi had been kind, had allowed her to open up, but then again Qiovi had been a lion. Ever so cautiously the female dropped down from her perch and headed purposely to the pool. She stayed as quiet as she could and did her best not to look put off or anxious; there was no need for him to see or know her fear. Crouching by the edge of the pool, Uhuru drank, although now and then she did cast a wary eye on Kutakia. . . .
Just to be safe.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Mon Dec 29, 2008 9:31 am
The water from this particular watering hole seemed to taste better than from others. It was cool, crisp and clear, with no taste of mud at all. Kuta did hate the taste of mud, his nose wrinkling into an expression of disgust just at the mere thought of lapping up mud with the water. Ugh. Glancing up with his amber eyes, to just check that none of the nasty brown substance was spreading over the water, Kutakia was surprised to find himself now sharing the watering hole with another leopardess - and a pretty one at that.
His eyes glanced over her, trying to figure out whether she was hostile or not. He didn't want to start a fight, but to find a new friend would be wonderful! Confusion and worry clouded his eyes, however, as the many scars over her blonde coat came into his view, forehead furrowing in a frown. Whatever had she done to deserve those? She certainly didn't look like a criminal - perhaps she hadn't even deserved them at all?
Somewhat shyly, Kuta stood from where he currently was, crouched by the water, allowing a warm smile to grace his features, "I hope you don't mind me asking, madame, but are you alright?"
Maybe he could help her out?
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Mon Dec 29, 2008 9:49 am
Her ears pricked as movement across from the watering hole caused her to stiffen. Lifting her head, licking dry her damp maw, the golden lady studied the male. He himself looked young, but furthermore, didn't appear to look rugged or abused. As far as she could tell he held no scars on his body, which was a good sign as far as she were concerned; he wasn't much a fighter, at any rate. . . .
Still, that alone wasn't enough to cease her worries. Even though the stranger could smile, and even though he spoke pleasantly enough, he was still a stranger. Looks could always be deceiving.
Thankfully though, Uhuru did have manners. She wasn't an aggressive leopard, nor was she often impolite or rude. Though she was uncomfortable she wasn't so intimidated she was going to turn tail and run. Not yet, at any rate, and his concern was sweet enough. A small smile graced her features and Uhuru nodded, "Truly, I am quite well, stranger. These scars are old, ugly as they might be." The pain had long since healed, physically; emotionally Uhuru knew she was still a bit of a work in progress.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Sun Jan 04, 2009 9:48 am
Kuta's worried look continued as his golden eyes watched the female, eagerly anticipating her answer. He really hoped she was alright - perhaps he could help? He didn't know of any shaman or healers in the near vicinity, but if he found a friendly pride he was sure he could persuade them to help. They looked painful, and seeing someone in pain wasn't something Kutakia enjoyed. Her words came soon enough, however, and a smile crossed his face at her reassurance. They did look more like scars, admittedly, than they did fresh wounds, but he'd just wanted to check. You could never be too sure.
"I'm Kutakia," he offered, a warm smile still in place on his face as he began his way around the watering hole, slowly. He eventually stopped, a fair distance away - far enough so that he wasn't crowding her personal space, but close enough so that he dind't have to shout.
"Who're you?"
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Wed Jan 07, 2009 11:11 pm
Uhuru's ears flipped forward as she studied the leopard before her. She wasn't so skittish as to turn tail and bolt but he was a male and worse a leopard at that! With her history, the lavender eyed femme just had to be cautious about his intentions. Men often only had one thing on their mind, and Uhuru was nobodys toy. Still, the leopard did look young and didn't eactly seem like the charming or controlling sort of male; in fact, he'd been nothing but cordial and even kept distance between one another.
Uhuru couldn't rightly fault him for that.
Tail swishing gently behind her, the leopardess gave another small smile. "I'm Uhuru. . . It's. .. " She hesitated a moment before adding, "It's a pleasure to meet you, Kutakia." Uhuru dipped her head cordially, eyes glittering with amsuement before she gaze back upon him. A little amicableness could go a long way, or so her mother had taught her; furthermore, it would be nice to be social. . .
A little conversation never hurt.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Wed Jan 07, 2009 11:13 pm
Kuta was, admittedly, somewhat naive and childish, especially on the subject of love. He'd much rather run around anc chase a butterfly than sit down and have a talk with his mother about the 'birds and the bees'. Not that he had a mother, of course. He'd forgotten about her long ago, never having met her for more than a few days. As she offered him her name, Kutakia's gentle smile grew to a wide grin, his tail wagging behind him almost like a dog's might. Uhuru...pretty name. Like her. She was pretty.
"As it is to meet you, Uhuru. What brings you to the jungle, then?" he asked carefully, eager to start a conversation.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Wed Jan 07, 2009 11:26 pm
The leopardess knew nothing about the young male that sat before her, and part of her wondered if she should linger so. The female wasn't often prone to interaction with others and part of Uhuru wondered if mingling was a good idea. After she'd left him all of her problems and woes had disappeared. . . . Mind, it was a bit of a lonely and quiet sort of existance, but it was ultimately the safest route to tread.
Still, lonely as her life was, it wasn't boring. She had mother nature to guide her and could claim the entire world as her own. There were brilliant sunsets to witness and the dawn always greeted her with a sunny smile. The rain cooled her when warm, and the stars were her travelling companions at night. Local birds sang and gave her comfort when down and local flora provided her with beauty. And then, of course, her most favorite place of all was the sea. . . .
She'd still never managed to bring her paws to the coast but she had been close. The lion Qiovi had offered to escort her to the massive waters but only lately had she abandoned him out of fear A sliver of the femme regretted the course of action but what was done was done; she lived her life in fear even if the lion had helped her come to better terms with the male species.
It was thanks to his patience that allowed her to sit comfortably with Kuta now.
"I came to witness its vast expanse and great beauty," she explained with a soft chuckle. "It had been rumored to me that it was the most magical place on earth and I have to say I might very well agree. It's been a pleasant stay, I assure you," she grinned, lavender eyes bright with good humor. She'd been to the jungle lands before, as a younger leopardess, but had spent most of her life traveling the Savannah and open plains. The lush forest had been a pleasant respite. . . "What about you, sir?" was he a native to the lands, possibly. . . . She'd find out soon enough.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Thu Jan 08, 2009 12:53 pm
The beauty? He could fully understand that. With a smile, Kuta turned his amber gaze upwards, watching the sunlight filter through the large leaves, casting shadows yet lighting the jungle at the same time. It was a magical place, that he really did love. His gaze soon came back to Uhuru, complete with a nod to show that he understood why and what she'd come to witness. A small chuckle escaped his jaw at her news of a pleasant stay, and he even tried a little bow. It failed, though, when he slipped and splashed his face into the water by accident. Shaking himself off, he gave a cheeky, somewhat embarrassed grin, giggling a little. Whoops.
"I'm glad to hear that. If anyone bothers you, feel free to call me. I'll try to sort them out." he joked lightly, cheeks still slightly pink in embarrassment. Trust him to fall face-first into the watering hole.
"Me?"
He was used to talking about others, but this was a nice change, causing him to smile and sit himself back down, "I've been living here a short while, but I'm thinking of moving on soon. I'm not tired of it - I don't think I ever will be. But my heart's no longer happy here, and wants me to move on."
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Thu Jan 08, 2009 1:22 pm
Uhuru gave a small smile at the young leopards display; though the spirits caused his paws to slip in a moments humiliation, the pale femme didn't smile, smirk nor laugh. If anything she chose to ignore the action and instead focus upon what he had attempted to accomplish. "Such a gentleman!" She smiled, offering a dip of her head all the same. "It's nice to see such a rare breed alive and well in this world." Her words weren't in jest and were quite genuine, even with her lavender eyes twinkling in mirth. Gentlemen were few and far between from what she'd discovered. . . The fact Kuta had bowed to her of all leopards was something new all together.
"So are you ruler of this jungle then?" She questioned with an amused grin, canting her head as she waited for a response. "Though the gesture is sweet, I'm quite sure I'll be all right. I've lived on my own for years now and, without sounding vain, am quite good at it." She tossed him an amused wink before wrapping her tail gently about her paws.
She might as well get comfortable. There was no telling how long they might talk. Her ears pricked with interest as he explained his story; a visitor like herself but contemplating witnessing other lands. "If your heart isn't content then perhaps you'll do it some good through relocation. I'm a traveler myself and am only truly content while disocering new lands and locations." It was true. . . mostly. There were other reasons she kept on the run, mostly to avoid bumping in to him. Never would she get attached to one place or one male for that matter. . .
No, she was well and truly independent.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Fri Jan 09, 2009 9:31 am
A gentleman? Kutakia's somewhat lop-sided grin grew a little warmer at the thought. He'd never been called a gentleman before. it was...strange. A childish moron, yes. But never a gentleman. He quite liked it, straightening his posture as if to match. Was she complimenting him? Aww, how nice! Usually he did most of the complimenting, since he liked making friends and it was the best way to do so. It was nice to have the compliments returned. His smile turned to a grin with a flash of his cheek, a giggle escaping the males maw. Aww, he was starting to like Uhuru. She was really nice.
"Ruler? I wouldn't say that," came the modest reply to her question, Kutakia smiling, #deab11]"I just take what I need and give back what I can. I doubt I've left much of an impression."
His look turned to one of concern. Was she sure she'd be alright? He just couldn't help but think of those scars, and who'd given them to her. She didn't seem particularly fragile, but he still didn't like the idea of her alone. And the idea of her getting hurt was even worse! The conversation moved on to travelling, and he inclined his head to show he understood what she was saying. His heart would be happy when he moved on - at least for another few weeks. "Really? Maybe we're more alike that we realize."
He smiled at the thought. He enjoyed meeting fellow travellers.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Mon Feb 02, 2009 12:38 pm
The leopardess understood that the male before her was young, but that didn't mean she couldn't appreciate his sincerity. He certainly didn't act cautious or wary; he didn't appear to be temperamental or snarky, and honestly seemed to be a gentle soul. Such creatures in the wild were a rarity and the feline wasn't about to so swiftly dismiss him.
He harbored a sort of boyish charm that made him sweet. . . . A little more age and experience and Uhuru was certain he'd be quite the catch. To be young and innocent once more. . . . oooooh, she was feeling old. Though she wasn't old, she was certainly mature and had lost her innocence when she had run off thinking love was all she needed. No, she had been slapped in to reality by partnering with him. . . . .never again could she return to the blissful life of daydreams.
"Ah, but you're too modest and humble," she clucked her tongue lightly, violet eyes bright. "One can never go wrong with kindness and generosity; you may think you haven't left much of an impression but I bet, if we were to meet all those you passed in your travels, they all may have something different to say. You can move a heart with just a smile, you know." Chuckling lightly, the composed female grinned in good humor.
Now she really felt old. . . .
Moving off the more sentimental route, the leopardess was pleased to meet another traveler. Dipping her head lightly, the female added, "It seems as if fortune smiles upon us. It's good to meet one who likes to roam; have you traveled far in your journey or are you at the beginning of such a journey?" Uhuru herself had been seemingly everywhere. . . except the one place she truly wanted to be.
Bt she'd save the sea for another day, another time. . . when she didn't feel quite so threatened or alone.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Mon Feb 02, 2009 1:17 pm
Kuta was beginning to grow quite fond of this leopardess, although as more of a friend than anything else. She was...smart. Charming. Despite her having a certain wariness around her, he could tell that deep inside, she was a fairly gentle femme. One he'd quite like to get to know better, one day. A somewhat sloppy grin crossed his face, although faded to more of a thoughtful expression as she spoke of his modesty - he'd never really thought of himself as modest. A little silly, perhaps. Naive and Gullible were words he'd heard mentioned before. But never modest or humble. He toyed with the expressions, not sure whether he liked them or not. She meant them as a compliment, however, so he took them with a bashful smile.
"I have been told that once before; by my mother."
He didn't have any bad memories of his mother. From what he could remember she'd been a caring, thoughtful leopardess. But then something had happened, and he'd been wandering ever since. Looking for his star - his fallen, wishing star. He glanced back up from where he'd been staring at his paws, offering a warm smile as he replied, "I've travelled great distances, although it's all been enjoyable, and over a large period of time. I've been traveling ever since I can really remember - since I wasn't much older than a cub."
He paused for a moment, as if he was about to add more, before deciding against it. The story of what he was searching for was one best left for another time.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Mon Feb 02, 2009 1:36 pm
Uhuru listened to Kuta quietly, ears pricked as she digested the information he shared with her. "Well you certainly have had a good start then," she added with a small smile. How long had Uhuru wandered? She had been content to live at home up until her adolescent years; then everything had changed. She had always loved visiting new places, but it had been a particular male that had drawn her fully out of her protective circle.
Her family had never met the male, their relationship had been kept secret especially since he'd been older than she. . . and then love happened. At least on her end. Without ever saying good bye she had left her family behind and traveled happily with the male. But happiness was fleeting and the charade of love fast ended. . . . "I began wandering during my youth. I thought I might see it all, see the world, take it all in . . . . And though I've been traveling since I must say I fear there is more world than there is of me. Our time here is fleeting, but even if I didn't dilly dally nw and then, I still doubt I'd get to see it all."
Her violet eyes danced with amusement as she thought about all the secrets she would never discover. "But, on the other paw, I suppose that's the challenge we all face." There wasn't enough time in the day, or life in a lifetime. Even paired together she doubted Kuta's memories and her own would cover even a tenth of Africa, much less the world. . . .
And Uhuru couldn't even begin to guess how big the world really was.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Tue Jun 09, 2009 11:48 am
She smiled again, and a feeling swelled in his chest - he felt like he'd actually achieved something, to have made her smile. Giving someone a smile was the greatest gift of all, as it brought happiness and joy. It was all good. As she began speaking he watched her, completely content to listen to her tale. He was good at that - a good listener. But whilst that had its merits, it could be bad, too. He had a strange inability to say no.
He smiled, "Ah, but it's what you do see that matters. Make the most of the time you do have and your life will be fruitful and worthwhile."
He inclined his head a little in a polite gesture as he glanced to the sky, watching the sun slowly begin to sink behind the trees surrounding the pair. He wrinkled his nose - he didn't want this meeting to end. Uhuru's company was one he enjoyed, and he did enjoy talking with her. "I fear to say it's getting late, and I must leave. I hope to see you again tomorrow, Uhuru - I will return to this spot. Kuta offered, smiling as he inclined his head politely, before turning and leaving, eager to return to his den before it was stolen.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
