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 Posted: Sun Oct 14, 2012 4:47 pm
 "I knew it would all work out in the end." Eeva gave her father a nudge and smiled at him from beneath the wreath of fresh leaves encircling her brow. It had slipped low and had partially obscured her view. When they came to a stop amongst the crowds a moment later she pushed it up a little with her paw. "Love always finds a way, hm?"
"I never doubted you for a moment. Your timing really was impeccable."
"It's a gift." She replied with a flourish, bowing over a waving paw. "Anyway, with Poa sorted, it's time for us to enjoy ourselves. I've got a lot of catching up to do and not enough time!" And so she parted from her father in good spirits, glad to see the smile back on her brother's face and relish in the feelings of a budding romance. So few of her siblings had found romance - or so it seemed - that when it did happen it was something to be celebrated. She wondered whether they would even have their wedding this year at the festival. They made such a cute couple and now that they were finally together it seemed right to make it official in front of every clan. The only sad thing was that she'd be losing her grouchy little brother. Well, not losing him entirely, but she wasn't going to be seeing him every day. Not when the clans separated and he went off to join Mantis.
Flicking her tail thoughtfully, she moved amongst the crowds, nodding to those of her own clan and smiling to see how relaxed everyone was. She loved this time of year when the distances between kin were closed and all clans could come together and share stories and kindle new friendships as well as update old ones. That day her eyes were scanning the crowds for one lion in particular. She hadn't seen him since the 'coming-of-age' hunt and that felt like such a long time ago now, especially with Phib and Ameh's litter being fully grown adults now.
The lion she sought was Udadalvsvli. Her heroic friend from Bird Clan.
So far they had seemingly avoided one another and she was beginning to wonder whether he might have stayed away. Maybe he was running late. Or perhaps something had happened which meant his attention was needed elsewhere. The disappointment hadn't yet quite sunk in - after all there were so many lions here that she may have missed him - and so she pressed on. Eeva was not the type to give up easily.
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Posted: Sun Oct 14, 2012 7:58 pm
Unfortunately, the lion had forgotten exactly how large the festival had become! There were so many faces, some new, some old, some familiar, some not, that he and the rest of his family had taken time to visit. Truly, Sky Festival was more of an experience than an event, and while he kept his blue eyes out for a familiar brown coat, he had yet to cross paths with Eeva. It wasn't surprisingly, really. On top of being a leader of Shadow Clan, and likely having her own obligations to attend, Udadalvsvli knew he was also not her only friend. There had to be a great many others she needed to catch upon, and family drifted to other Clans, to circle back upon. So it was, the lion had bided his time and patience, and had left it up to the spirits on whether or not he might see his friend.
There was time left, after all. . . . Had this been the last day of the festival, though, he might very well have taken fate in to his own paws. Thankfully this day the orange maned lion had no need to do such a thing, for who did he see picking her way through the crowd but Eeva Subiani~!
It did not appear that she was aware of his proximity within the crowds. It was also very likely she was headed elsewhere, on her own mission or errand for the Festival, but the orange coated lion simply could not let her pass without saying something. Picking his way through the crowd, quickly trotting after her, the lion did his best to bridge the distance. "I dare hope the fair lady of Shadow Clan has been enjoying herself," he called out when he thought he was close enough for her to hear.
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Posted: Wed Oct 17, 2012 4:01 am
The festival had grown bigger with each passing year. Was it three that Eeva had been to now? That made her feel old! Or older than most, anyway. There were so many new and little members that it was hard to ignore the fact that she was getting older. But, as her father always told her, you are only as old as you feel. He might have had some grey fur coming in but his eyes were filled with the life of youth. Their's was a young family all around, from their eldest to their youngest there was that unquenchable joy and love for life. She had heard that some more would be joining Shadow Clan and was looking forward to welcoming them all. It was a job she loved but that her father hadn't. He was a timid lion and meeting newcomers made him nervous. Thankfully Eeva had inherited none of his meek side at all, taking her lion's share of her mother's boldness.
And so, when she heard her name called, her head whipped around instantly. She knew the voice, even above the hullabaloo of the crowds around them. It was her dashing, noble knight. "Udadalvsvli?" Her tongue was not so tangled around his name as it might have been back when they first met. "This fair lady certainly has! I hear the Shadows have a number of newcomers to greet." She'd have to look into a little celebration for them later. "And that's not all." She all but skipped across to him, giving him an affectionate nudge with her head to close the gap between them. "How about you, hm?" He certainly looked as if he were having a good time, in any case.
"I do hope there have been no damsels in need of rescue or any perils to conquer whilst you've been here?" Or perhaps she did. The stories of his adventures always made for good listening. "Although, if anything untoward did happen, we'd certainly be at an advantage with you here." Her tail curled, thinking of all the possibilities.
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Posted: Fri Oct 19, 2012 11:10 pm
The large lion couldn't keep the smile from his maw as Eeva bridged the distance between the two, and offered him a friendly nudge. There was just something about the lioness that brightened his day, no matter how good it already seemed to be going. That was quite a feat, really, for Udadalvsvli was usually in fairly good spirits. . . . Well, such could be expected by having such good friends, couldn't it? Friends were just a different type of family, or so he liked to believe. While he loved his mother, his father, his siblings dearly. . . sometimes there were certain aspects where only a friends touch or reassurance or good humor could lighten the spirit.
So it was, the blue-eyed lion could only beam happily down at Eeva. He did not miss the joy in her gaze, the delight that gave her a radiance all her own. Surely the leader of Shadow Clan had every reason to be joyous during the Sky Festival -- new members to greet, new friends to make, old friends to catch up with, dispersed family to coo over -- it really was the best time of year. A little crazy, a little crowded, but wonderful. "Ah, most excellent to hear! Bird Clan has inherited some new faces as well, and I look forward to giving them my regard. . . perhaps though, when they're not feeling so overwhelmed." He knew the new faces would likely be bombarded with welcome, if not by all, than at least a good many. He honestly couldn't imagine what an outsider might think of such a festival, even if his own parents had gone through the exact thing years ago.
"As for me, m'lady, I have certainly been enjoying the event. It is good to see new life, new faces, new loves, all coming together in celebration, a reminder that we are all Ela'wadiyi." It wasn't that he ever forgot such a thing, but to see all the clans together . . . well. . . . the pride was rather large. It was easy to think of ones Clan, maybe another one or two as well, but . . . . to see them all in one area was empowering, if not a little overwhelming. "There have been no damsels in need of rescue nor any whose honor needed be saved. For that I am most grateful. Still," he added with a grin and a small puffing of his chest in pride, "Rumor has it there is to be a great feat of strength in battle. I look forward to seeing if I might do Bird Clan proud. Perhaps battling the passing foliage will come in hand after all, eh?" He teased, not at all object to poking fun at his hobby.
Still, the lion had not ignored, nor forgotten, the small addition Eeva had spoken earlier. "At risk of prying in to your affairs, or coming off as a gossip, you had mentioned there might be a little more to your joy than simply delighting in new faces. Might the gentleman inquire further?" He questioned formally, though there was teasing and good humor written in his face.
Really, her 'and that's not all' comment did have him wonder. Had there been a birth in her family? A marriage announcement? A reunited friend? A reunited lover . . . Hmm. The last thought almost worried him, strangely enough. . .well. . . maybe not as strangely as he would have liked to admit. Bah, but even so, he would share in her joy, regardless. Furthermore, her comment could be anything. . . . absolutely anything under the sun.
There was no need to panic. And really, why should he panic at all? They were friends. Friends. She was a leader, he was a tree-battler. . . . friends. Only friends.
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Posted: Sat Oct 20, 2012 4:23 am
His smile was infectious and her own one widened as if to compensate. The joy was so refreshing, so genuine that it was hard not to be pulled into the feeling, especially with everything going on all around them. It would be hard - perhaps impossible - to be miserable at such a time when there was so much excitement in the air. Everyone from cubs to adults seemed to be making the most of this opportunity whilst it lasted. "Seeking them out later would be a good idea." She agreed. "I can't imagine what it must be like to join a new pride and to do it with so many eyes upon you. Especially if you've been a rogue for so long, wandering alone. Having such a big family to be able to rely upon will take some getting used to, I would think. Especially now when our numbers are increasing." Thinking back, she continued: "When my mother joined the Shadows there was only my father. A single lion!" It was hard to believe. "We've come a long way." And it warmed her heart to see how well their people were flourishing.
She listened to him speak of the lack of daring rescues that had been needed and smiled warmly. She would certainly have liked to have been part of the audience if something like that had happened. She had no doubts that in an emergency, her gallant knight would fly to the rescue with a calm head and steady focus. "Oh!" She had forgotten about that part of the ceremony. Shadows had never had too many lions willing to join up and last year her brother had been too young to take part. "The Sky ceremony! You should definitely enter, Udadalvsvli! A tree is much harder to knock down than a lion. You should have no problem at all. If you like I'll even come watch and cheer you on!" She gave him another nudge with the tip of her paw. "May as well put all that training to good use and it would be good to say I know the Sky Champion." It was pretty exciting, too. She'd never managed to find the time to watch much of the event previously but if there were lions she knew taking part then that was a different situation altogether.
She laughed then at his idea of gossiping and waved a dismissive paw in his direction. "Of course you may. Actually, you're the perfect person to tell, given the circumstances." He had, after all, been there when she had been out looking for Poa after his disappearance. He knew most - if not all - of what had transpired and it was nice to be able to tell him that the story had a happy ending at last. Love could be difficult but it always worked out in the end - or so it seemed to Eeva. Now if only she could get a sibling to help her with hers just as she had done with Poa.
"Do you remember my little brother, Poa? The one who went missing and I was out looking for? Well, as of today his girl problems are officially fixed!" She lifted her head proudly. "Thanks to a little help from my father and I." She made a great team with her dad, apparently, although she hadn't told him what she had been planning until it was too late. "Apparently Kalanu had asked Poa to go and be with her in her clan but he panicked and said no. Silly boy. He didn't want to leave us. Was afraid of the change. That was why he was brooding around so much and why he kept disappearing off on his own. In any case, with a bit of work, we managed to get the pair of them talking and as of a few moments ago they are engaged to wed at the Rain Ceremony tomorrow afternoon." She was a little sad, of course, that Poa would have to leave but thrilled to see a smile finally on his gloomy face. He had spent so much of his life as a grumpy loner. Kalanu had really turned him around. "I'm really glad that Kalanu forgave him for turning her down before." She continued. "Although, I suppose leaving your clan would be a little strange." Secretly, Eeva was glad she didn't have to deal with that.
And, before she could stop, she asked: "Do you think you would mind marrying outside of your clan?"
It was only after wording the question that she felt her face flush with heat.
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Posted: Sat Oct 20, 2012 1:50 pm
Udadalvsvli listened as his friend spoke about the life of a rogue. While his own family came from the rogue lands, had only joined before his birth, the Ela'wadiyi as a whole had been smaller. . . but it had felt significantly large to him! In part it was because he had been a cub, and everything was so much larger at that age. Still, his white-tipped ears pricked some as she spoke of Shadow Clan possessing only a single member. "Only your father? I honestly cannot begin to imagine the early days of the pride with the clans so small. Perhaps it is good not to forget such a time, so one might see just how far all the clans have come since their beginning. I mean, just stealing a look around . . . This is a living testament of the security, of the goodness, of our pride, of these lands. Surely our ancestors can rest easy with the knowledge that their sacrifices have brought us all here together these days." This was his home, his pride, his clan; the lion honestly could not help but feel good about it, about its traditions, its history, and of course, the life that flourished within its borders. There would be no doubting his passion.
At Eeva's encouragement about the Sky Festival, the lions resolve was doubly made up. He had every intention of entering, if only to see just how he might fare, but to have an audience that wasn't just his siblings felt good. Granted, it put the pressure of doing a good job on his shoulders, but . . . it was all in good fun, in good sport. As much as he liked to play hero, as much as he wished to save damsels and rescue those in need, Udadalvsvli was smart enough to now he was not the largest, or fastest, or brightest of lion within Clan or pride. "Would you really, Eeva? I'd be most honored if you might come. . . . So long as you aren't too disappointed should I get beat." There were some lions he had passed that looked like they very well might give him a hard time. Battle was as much luck as it was skill, and in all fights, only one could walk away a winner. "That is, only if you might have the inclination and time to do so. I'd imagine your time is precious and in demand these days," not just because of her rank within Shadow Clan, but because she did come from such a large family. Surely she'd made many friends over the years, had relatives dispersed, and other obligations and appointments.
He didn't want to . . .well. . . get in the way.
Udadalvsvli felt both joy and relief when she explained the source of her excitement. Joy because her brother, Poa, had finally found his happy ending. . . Relief, because it meant Eeva was not heading to the Rain Ceremony herself. While he would have wished her every happiness in the world had such a thing been her source of news, it also worried him that he might . . . not. . . wish for such a thing for his friend. And deep down, the lion knew why. Friends they very well might be, but . . . well. . . . Mmph. No. To be considered later.
"Ah! So love finally did conquer all, despite your brothers initial panic. That truly is splendid news, especially to know that they will soon be wed. And at the Tree Ceremony, no doubt, what perfect timing!" The thrill he felt was not completely selfish, he genuinely was glad that things had worked out for Eeva's sibling. Marriage was not taken lightly in the Ela'wadiyi, so to find a couple who was willing to devote themselves to one another . . . especially after such trouble. . . was a blessing. "If they managed to get through even a temporary separation and still come out in love, I have no doubt the years they have together will be well blessed. Good for them."
Ah, love. Such a peculiar emotion, such a . . . surprise all the same. Speaking of surprises, Eeva's next question did startle him. At least a little. "Marry outside of Bird Clan, eh?" He repeated, though he couldn't stop the grin from spreading slowly over his face. ". . . Without a doubt. If I were ever lucky enough to fall in love with one who might love me back, I fear I'd be a bit old fashioned, if not a bit over the top in the expression of my affections." He chuckled some and shrugged helplessly. "Knowing me, I wouldn't just switch clans, I'd walk to the ends of the world if she wished it, or move mountains if it brought her joy. Granted, that sounds like a lot of work, but. . . I dare say it would be more than worth it."
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Posted: Sat Oct 20, 2012 5:03 pm
She nodded, finding it difficult to imagine, too. The Ela'wadiyi's numbers had been severely depleted back in those days and though her father spoke about it more easily now, there was always a sorrow that crept into his eyes whenever he recalled his youth. "They called this the promised land, once. I think it lived up to that reputation." Her eyes sparked with enthusiasm. "Whoever it was who had the idea to travel here was certainly wise indeed. We are far enough away from other prides that we have our solitude and yet we get enough rogues that our numbers can increase at a steady pace." It was certainly a trait of an Ela'wadiyi to be proud of his or her heritage. Whether born here or not, the place seemed to breathe life into those who came to call it home. Soon the new rogues would be decorated with tattoos and embracing their way of life. It sometimes surprised Eeva how easy others came to accept their traditions. Perhaps the migratory way of life helped rogues ease into the role of 'clan member'. After all they would have been used to travelling before coming here to find a home. "Thankfully my father met with a couple of other Ela'wadiyi after arriving and, shortly after that, he met my mother."
Eeva laughed again. "Of course I would come. I would never give up the chance to see my dearest of friends competing in the Sky Festival. And if you do happen to get beaten - which I don't think you need to worry about - I'm sure it will be a battle to speak about long after." And she did mean epic proportions. Eeva was already imagining the clash of lions, the circling and pouncing and pinning. Eeva had no idea how one tackled a lion. Perhaps it was similar to how one hunted the antelope? A powerful leap and teeth closing about the throat--uh...gently? It was only play, after all. She nodded again, smiling. "If anyone has need of me during the Sky Festival it will just have to wait." She confirmed. "Nothing can be too important that it can't be delayed a little. Or they could join me and watch, too. I wouldn't be adverse to that."
Udadalvsvli would certainly not get in the way. Not ever.
"It was certainly well timed. I'm really glad that they managed to work things out. He was so depressed and I'm sure that Kalanu must have been feeling down, too. Besides, with those two getting married it gives the clan an excuse to celebrate again. T'is the season!" Marriage was certainly a big step in an Ela'wadiyi's life. After all, it was for life. Marriage could not be rushed into and Eeva knew that many members never considered it as an option, preferring to stay single. She didn't think she was one of those though. Love was such a big thing in one's life. To miss out on that seemed like an incredibly sad thing indeed. "I will miss him." She added after a moment. "You do get used to seeing familiar faces around and his grouchy face has been a permanent fixture since he's been little. It will be strange to not have him around." She couldn't imagine that he would be grouchy in Mantis Clan, though. Not with Kalanu there to keep that smile on his face. "And if they can do it, there's hope for all of us, isn't there?"
Or so she had to believe.
She wasn't sure exactly why, but his response to her question pleased her greatly. Eeva supposed that she should have guessed the answer to it before. He was a very selfless and caring individual and he would certainly do all that he could to make sure that his mate would be happy. In fact, the romantic notion of his words had her heart aching. One day, Udadalvsvli would make someone very happy. She wondered who that someone might be. Whether they would be some lucky girl he happened to rescue from some sort of danger. It was a romantic notion and when she looked up at him she felt almost bashful.
"There's nothing wrong with being a bit old fashioned." She said, her voice a little quieter in tone. "It sounds lovely. There needs to be more lions like that, in my opinion." She cleared her throat and cast him another sidelong glance. "Whoever captures your attention will be very lucky to have done so." And, with a small smile she pushed the wreath of leaves further up her brow. They seemed to like draping down over her eyes and suddenly she was feeling flustered.
Perhaps it was best to change the subject? Although a part of her didn't want to...
"So..." She paused to collect her thoughts. "Do you have any secret winning moves that might come in handy for the Sky Ceremony?"
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Posted: Tue Oct 30, 2012 7:15 pm
Kimaria ((Sorry for the delay! . . . and novel. x__x ))
When Eeva insisted she might take time out of her day to see him in battle, he felt his ears warm a bit, though his chest involuntarily puffed out with pride. "If the good lady insists, I would be most honored." He spoke truth, despite the gleam of good humor that sparkled in his blue eyes. With such a smile, he bowed low to the ground, as was appropriate if a gentleman was granted such a boon from a lady. And not just any lady, of course, but his dear friend. While he was pleased that she would be there to witness his battles, it also added a peculiar amount of anxiety.
. . . . what if he did get humiliated?
He always boasted of his strength, of his abilities, and yet he might very well get knocked out of the first round! Well, surely she'd understand that while he was strong, he was not the strongest. . . And yet, Udadalvsvli couldn't help but want to impress her, even just (perhaps) a little. Other than foliage, he'd never had much of an opportunity to use his skills and this mock-battle was as good a chance as ever. Well, a lion was quite different than a prey beats or a tree, so perhaps Eeva would be forgiving in her assessment of him should he fail.
Besides, how many other lions would have such a lioness there to cheer him on? "With your support, regardless of how the Sky Ceremony pans out, the day will well be won." Honest as ever, the lion realized only after he spoke that maybe that sounded too forward, too honest. It was true, he wouldn't deny that, he would take great pleasure in the knowledge that his friend supported him. But that wasn't exactly what he'd meant either, was it . . .?
Without missing a beat, carrying on the conversation lightly, the spotted lion was only too happy to jump on the next bit of conversation such as her brother! As she spoke of Poa and Kalanu, of the falling out, the hurt, but then the happy reuinting of the pair, Udadalvsvl couldn't help but smile warmly. "It may have been awkward to start, but at least they have a story to speak of, to remember during their walk through life. I am glad that there is reason to celebrate. Sometimes happy endings are hard to find, especially when the road to them is paved with heartache and stones. I'm glad they stayed the course though, and as you say, their joy can be a message of hope for all who might still be searching."
Oh, the conversation they now walked was strangely wonderful and horrible all at once. The lion had no objections to sharing his romantic notions -- he was a chivalrous beast, after all, and had always dreamed of finding some damsel to court -- but . . .well. . . this was Eeva. In lue of some recent thoughts, it was dangerous because he was too close to the situation. He couldn't properly judge his perspective anymore, and he did fear making her uncomfortable, or letting something slip.
"I'm sure there are many of us out there," he assured. "I can only hope that the spirits might introduce me to her sooner rather than later, if they have not done so already." He had once thought he'd found someone in Iyunge, but that had never panned out. It had been for the best, or so he realized with age, though it had been distressing during his youth. Still, the large lion was an affectionate male, and family was important to him. As much as he loved Bird Clan, and the Ela'wadiyi as a whole, the knight in him did wish to find someone special, as Poa had done.
Unfortunately, that was one aspect that was fairly out of his paws, to a certain extent. "Ah, but I am not the only lion who might be so lucky. I know for a fact that the announcement of your engagement will be cause of much celebration. Whoever might be allowed to court you, to find favor in you, will truly know joy." And a great many lions, he was sure, including himself, might take the news with bittersweet joy and sorrow.
Such was the way of the world at times.
The conversation seemed to retreat back to Sky Ceremony. A part of Udalvsvli was relieved, if only because he did worry he might suddenly make a wrong move. But what would be wrong? More and more he was beginning to realize that maybe. . . just maybe. . . he did have an interest in Eeva. But she was a busy lioness, and perhaps even a bit out of his league. And they were friends, such dear friends. . . .what if he messed up their companionship by inquiring? What if he made things awkward? What if she had no interest?
. . . but then again, not saying something might mean a missed opportunity.
What better time to talk than Sky Festival? Who knew when they might meet again once their respective Clans returned to their migrations. Bah. Too much to consider, and now was most definitely not the time! "Hmm? Ha, I don't know about any secret winning moves. . . Most everyone knows I'm the resident plant hunter in these parts. Now, if any of the lions I fight sprouted vines or sported stationary branches, I might have some tricks." He teased lightly, trying not to worry over any potential slip of word or tongue.
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Posted: Wed Oct 31, 2012 2:36 pm
Eeva had seen it before. How the land and the culture adopted people from all walks of life. Tough, loner rogues. Frightened, timid felines who jumped at their own shadows. Lions and lionesses from other prides who had happy pasts or sad ones. Some had suffered on the way here. Others had simple come across it and fallen in love. But whatever the cause, whatever the reason, it changed something in them. It brought them together no matter how different they were. It was a type of magic that Eeva was certain could not have been anywhere else. Otherwise why would so many come here from other prides? From their homeland? She tried to think of someone - anyone - that she knew who had left he pride and found that she couldn't. Those who had joined here as rogues and those who were born here were tied by some unconditional love. The Ela'wadiyi homeland offered safety, joy, friendship and family, a deep kinsman-ship that must have been rare to find elsewhere. "I couldn't think of living anywhere else." She confirmed. "I imagine even out adventuring, the Ela'wadiyi feel the pull of home, tempting them back." Even her adventurous sister, Laka, had not been gone for long and she had spouted about going on a journey for the longest of times until that day.
"I look forward to it." And she truly did. She couldn't wait to see how he fared against other members of the pride. He was a humble lion indeed, this friend of hers, but she had faith in his abilities. Udadalvsvli had never seemed the type of lion who would not put one hundred percent into what he was doing. Win or lose, she was sure that he'd put on quite the show and if her watching and cheering him on, perhaps that would give him the edge that he needed. She lifted her head up proudly and gave a simple, rumbling purr in response. "I'm certain I will be impressed."
And then his comment.
It took Eeva a moment to absorb what he had said. That with her there, win or lose, he would rise victorious? Her heart was performing a strange little dance in her chest, putting heat into her face--
--but then he was talking again and she scrabbled to catch up, afraid he might realise that she'd been lost in thought. She'd been reading too much into it, that was all. Surely that was it. He was just being his usual, friendly, noble self. If any friend had offered to watch him compete he would have said the same thing. That was just who Udadalvsvli was, wasn't it? It wasn't that she was 'special' or anything like that.
Even still, when she replied, her voice sounded staggered. "Y-yes. It certainly is a story they will remember." And hopefully would make them stronger for it. They knew, now, that love was a fragile thing that had to be tended until it bloomed and long after. "I...I do not doubt that it is a hard thing to find, even with the pride expanding as it is." She shifted awkwardly, trying to silently convey a message to her heart to slow down. Amusingly enough, Eeva was feeling so awkward with the conversation that she didn't seem to realise that her companion was feeling as much the same as she was. "The spirits do seem awfully tricky when it comes to the workings of the heart." She continued, bobbing her head agreeably.
And, embarrassingly, at the mention of her future engagement, she visibly startled; blue eyes widening and mouth falling open into a wide 'O'. "Uh, oh, well...yes..." She gave an embarrassed sort of shift. "I think my parents might end up trying to play matchmaker one of these days. But it's difficult, you know? Trying to find someone in the midst of duty? And though the clan is larger, my family make up such a large portion of it." And so many were already coupled up. "And those who aren't are more like brothers and sisters to me. I saw many of them grow up into the adults they are now and..." There just wasn't that spark with anyone in Shadow. Uh oh. What if her parents were taking this opportunity and already seeking out a possible suitor for her now? She fought the instinct to turn her head to see if she could spot them amongst the crowd. She was being silly. It wasn't as if anyone was going to be forced on her. She'd need to love him first. Her parents were a great believer in love and with marriage being such a serious step for Ela'wadiyi it wasn't likely to be rushed. But, as clan leader, it was probably expected that sooner or later she should wed and produce an heir to the clan.
She felt strangely shaky, even when the topic shifted, and she found it increasingly difficult to concentrate, her mind playing her thoughts over and over again. She gave a laugh, though and constructed the best reply she could conjure. "Well, I could always tie a vine onto your opponent's tail without them noticing."
And somewhere behind her, a voice piped up from the crowds. "Eeva! Eeva!"
The brown female's ears flipped backwards, a moment of confusion sweeping across her features. "Did...did you hear someone calling my name?"
And a moment later, the small grey shape of her sister, Laka, escaped from the crowds and was hurrying towards them.
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Posted: Wed Oct 31, 2012 10:02 pm
Kimaria ((I apologize for Udadalvsvli's sudden awkwardness The joy of sudden crush realization and the heightened/hyper-sensitivity to everything. . . .xD
. . . . crap.
As often could happen, the usually sure-footed and confident Udadalvsvli found himself walking a precarious path. The small, panicked part of him was certain that he had upset her with his words, that she knew what he was hinting at and might be confused or displeased. Granted, the words he spoke could have easily been mistaken as something else, and he had tried to be subtle.
. . . . but maybe subtlty wasn't the best way to go about this. Unfortuantely, the lion didn't even know what this was! They were friends, only friends. He wasn't about to bring up something that might very well cause their friendship to crumble, and yet, he also wanted to fix their conversation, fix the slight change in the atmosphere around them.
Maybe, just maybe, he was being hyper-sensitive. Surely, in his own confusion, he was simply over thinking and over-worrying. Everything was fine. Instincts be damned, nothing had changed, and she couldn't possibly know his thoughts; besides, while this meeting was becoming more and more enlightening for the blue eyed male, he needed time to step away, truly consider, and think about what he next needed to do. Keep quiet? Bring up the conversation and hash it out before the end of Sky Festival, even at risk of ruining their friendship?
"The spirits are quite tricky, yes. They like to tease, and sometimes love can sprout in the most unexpected of places. In other cases, not at all." It really was unfortunate -- in his opinion -- when there were lions and lionesses who might have once yearned for love only to give up on it, or to never find it. In the Ela'wadiyi, mating was permanent, so he could understand the reservation of some . . . .though love could be found in family, in pride, in Clan . . . . it wasn't necessarily the same. But then again, Udadalvsvli was a romantic, old-fashioned sort; there were some, he was sure, who preferred to keep a single lifestyle or had no interest in romance.
The spirits knew best. . . or so he liked to believe.
When Eeva looked starteled at the mention of a future engagement, the large lion gave a quick chuckle. It was, perhaps, a bit more forced than he would have liked, but he wanted to smooth things out as quickly as he could. At least for now, at least until he knew what to do about that most awkward this. . . . if there was even a this to truly consider!
"It is completely understandable that it would be even more difficult as a lioness in your position. Not that I don't think think you couldn't handle a courtship on top of duty, m'lady, but I suppose it truly would come down to what you desired. Thankfully though, we are both young; there is no rush, and there is much time to see what loves we may someday find." Time . . . They had it, and though there was some relief to be found that Eeva had no eyes (at this moment) on anyone offhand in Shadow Clan, who was to say she wouldn't be swept off her paws with another? Who was to say she wouldn't meet someone incredible here at the Festival?
Well, if such was the case, he would support her, like any good friend. He would not begrudge her happiness, even if it did inadvertantly, possibly, become a touch painful. Above all else, he did want her to find every happiness, and it would be foolish. . .was foolish. . . of him to even think he might be more than a friend or might provide more than kinship and companionship.
Thankfully though, the lion didn't have time to dwell and contemplate. Though he did hear Eeva speak about causing mischief with vines, his ears heard a different voice cry out for the Shadow Clan leader. Everything was so strange, so . . . so awkward. . . and he just didn't know if he was making it up worrying himself over, or if it was legitimate. Blue eyes tore away from the brown lioness and he looked beyond her, trying to find the source. "Uh, yeah. . . I do believe your being sought out." He murmured agreement, taking half-a-step back, not wanting to be in the way.
Still, he did offer an amicable bow to the approaching Laka, unsure if he was glad for the new distraction or not. "Salutations, m'lady." He greeted Laka formal as ever, and well prepared to step away should it look like her attention be needed elsewhere.
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Posted: Thu Nov 01, 2012 3:09 pm
Uta That's totally fine. This awkwardness is so adorable x3!!
Eeva shifted uncertainly and hated herself for being so obvious through her body language. She was clearly not very good at masking her feelings, either. To be fair, though, she'd never had the need to do so before. But this was...this was different somehow.
Eeva wished she could put her feelings into words. Wished she could tell him that something was happening that she didn't quite understand. Alas, it seemed those tricky spirits were intervening once more - and not for the better, this time! She could hear Laka's paws against the ground now and hurried to say something - anything - to try and put the conversation back on track.
"Rushing is certainly not necessary ." She agreed. "Time is something we have aplenty."
And then the grey female was 'crashing on their parade'.
"Oh, hello!" The words burst out of her with great but genuine enthusiasm. "Don't I know you?" Her head canted but she was speaking again before either of them had a chance to respond to her. "Oh, yes! You were at the Galvlati hunt! Hello again! Sorry, I can't quite remember your name...hang on a moment, it's right on the tip of my tongue!"
"His name is Udadalvsvli Adagaue." Eeva filled in with an apologetic look at her friend. Her sister's in-your-face attitude had been cute and endearing as a cub. Now that she was an adult? Not so much...especially when she came bounding in to interrupt one of her conversations.
"Oh right, Udada!" Laka beamed, totally unconcerned. "What were we rushing?"
Eeva flustered. "N-nothing. It doesn't matter. We were just talking about the Sky Ceremony."
"Oh!" Laka turned her attention towards the male lion. "Are you entering? How exciting! Good luck in advance. And remember, keep your guard up!" Laka spoke as if she had experience when the truth was the exact opposite. "I'm sorry to be a huge pain but...do you mind if I borrow my sister for a bit? Poa's in a bit of a panic about his wedding gift and I was hoping that Eeva would have the time to help seeing as I'm a bit of a klutz."
She smiled prettily up at him as if that would sway his decision if he was thinking of saying no.
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Posted: Sat Nov 03, 2012 1:31 pm
Time was something they had aplenty.
Udadalvsvli would be wise to remember such words, and a small part of him wondered if that meant his fate was sealed -- should he not bring up his thoughts and inquiries? If his thinking continued to head the way he was beginning to realize, he would have no choice but to talk to her about it before Sky Festival ended. . . .
And yet, if Eeva was also in agreement that there was no rush, that there was much time, then maybe she wouldn't want him to bring such an awkward subject up. Maybe he shouldn't say anything, and simply try to avoid the awkwardness he felt, the . . subtle and slight shift from where their friendship was, and the strange path it now felt to be taking.
But, the grey, white, and brown maned lioness had interrupted their conversation, perhaps for the best, and blue eyes turned back to the outgoing lioness. He recalled her from the Galvlati Hunt Eeva had invited him to, though he didn't quite remember all the names and faces he had been introduced to back then. Eeva had such a large family, and the Shadow's weren't exactly a small clan either.
Thankfully, the grey lioness didn't look to want to poke and pry in to their conversation of earlier, which was a relief. Unfortunately, though, the female brought with her tidings that required Eeva's attention, which meant their meeting would be cut short. Shorter than Udadalvsvli might have wished, despite the strange path their conversation had lead them to walk. Still, he was not about to object; in the grand scheme of things, the Shadow Clan leader had much more important things to do than chatter with a friend. "I'll be sure to remember such keen advice," he assured Laka with a good-humored smile, grabbing on to the new chain of conversation desperately.
"You have every right for your sister's attention, especially with such a big event drawing near. My congratulations to your brother once again," he spoke to both of the females, though if his gaze didn't quite reach Eeva's he had his reasons. Things were still . . . . complicated, and only twisting more so with every passing moment. "I'm sure the lady Eeva and I might be able to cross paths again before the Clans depart." Or so he hoped.
Maybe time would settle the strangeness that had cropped up during the course of the conversation. Maybe the next time they met, there wouldn't be this awkwardness in the air, and maybe, just maybe, they could continue on like they had earlier in the day. Next time things would be better; when he wasn't trying to sort out what to do, what to say, and how to best approach such a tender subject.
Yes.
Next time.
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Posted: Sun Nov 04, 2012 1:28 pm
Uta This was the cutest rp everrrr. Perhaps we can have another one after the Sky Ceremony is done and we know the outcome of Udada's duels?
Eeva just wished...
Just wished that it hadn't had to have happened right at that very moment.
"Don't worry." Laka promised with a sparkling smile. "I'll bring her back again. But maybe not until after your duels so you can focus on being champion, hm?" And Eeva, who seemed not to be listening completely to the exchange happening between sister and friend, leapt to her paws when her sister gave her a small shove in the shoulder. "Right, Eevie?"
"Oh, um, yes. Right. You'd best lead the way then, I suppose. Let's go and get this brother of mine sorted out for his wedding."
"See you later, Udada!" Laka chimed, spinning once on the spot before heading back off in the direction she had just come, her pace marked with a skip that just overflowed with enthusiasm.
Eeva;s eyes were large and bright as she regarded Udadalvsvli. "I'll come and find you later, okay? Take care of yourself out there in those duels and--and good luck! I'll be there on the sidelines!" And her heart gave a strange little jitter as she moved away - reluctantly - pausing once to look over her shoulder at him. Then Laka called her name and with a small, shy smile, she disappeared into the crowds.
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Posted: Mon Nov 05, 2012 5:19 pm
Kimaria It was very fun and all the adorables, heeheee. I would love to do another one between them! Poor Udadalvsvli got destroyed by Yamini, unfortunately. . . He kind of hopes Eeva wasn't there to see that match, haha.
That would give him time to actually focus on what he'd need to do to prepare for that. . . . but it also meant he had time to dwell, worry, and try to figure out what his next course of action should be. While he wasn't a lion that was object to change, he wasn't so brave and bold as to not be a little intimidated by what the future might bring.
"It was nice to see you again Laka, Eeva," he gave a low bow to both of the lionesses, even if his blue eyes seemed only for the brown lioness before him. "I'll see you sometime after the ceremony then. Good luck helping out your brother!" His smile felt forced, and he still felt very awkward even though things had worked out. . . sort of. She was going to cheer him on, and she had seemed sincere in her good wishes. Still, he watched as she moved after her sister, his mind racing through every word he had said and feeling like a fool.
Maybe he was.
When she looked back, he almost started, and quickly dropped his gaze. He hadn't been watching, honest. Feeling a bit sheepish, the large lion quickly slipped in to the crowd, needing to find a quiet spot to train, and of most importantly, deliberate over the days turn of events.
[.fin.]
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