A Rouge's Journey

[Dakota]

Karensha stood there watching everyone, one at a time, speak and declare they too would come with her and look for Maisha and Memkra.
Looking up at Duna still perched on NightFlames back she gave a small smile at the cub, then lowered her gaze to fall on the red maned lion. his face was turned away so hadn't realised that she was staring at him.
Not knowing why she was, she kept her eyes on him till finally it came to her for some reason he's changed,maybe he's accepted something about himself or he's stopped looking, but he's different...a good different..., he was there for me before when I was trapped by that snake, just like now he didn't hesitate. .

Blinking slowly she turned away from staring and caught what was happening with Seleter, she was going to see what was a miss with Zulu, Shana and her mother. Giving a small sigh, karensha knew it was going to all blow up with those three, something was truly afoot with that mother and daughter, someone was hiding something and guilt or fear was eating away at them, she had tried to talk to Sereana back while travelling but had been dismissed. Maybe they needed to clear the air now, before they set off together again.

Moving forward Karenhsa leant down to Leela " Come on missy, time for a ride on my back again, shall we fly like last time, I know you are strong and can hang on real good.:"
Not waiting for an answer, the snow leopard picked her up by the scruff of her neck and placed her on her back amongst her purple tuft."

[Sarafina]

Sereana smiled and looked over at Zulu and Nadayshana. Her gaze went back to Seleter.
"She was a mistake. I never wanted her. So honestly..No...I dont love her Like I should.. And I dont think I will."
She spoke the truth. Her ears layed flat and she cleared her throat. SHe saw Shana back with Zulu. That cubwas never going to learn.

Her head went back to Seleter.
"Is that all you wanted to talk about Seleter?"
She asked softly and trying not to be rude. But the way it sliped out, someone could have taken offense.

[Kirsui]

"Is that all you wanted to talk about Seleter?"

The golden cheetah faced Sereana's gaze with the very same calm expression she had held all the time. She remained quiet for a while, simply holding Sereana's gaze with her own.
"I thought so..."
Seleter's voice had gone lower and she now finally stood up. She shook her head and looked past Sereana at the group.
"Then why, Sereana...? Why do you keep doing this to her? It's not her fault you don't want her."
She took a step closer to Sereana.
"I am not a mother, and I do not try to give you advice on how to raise your own cubs... However..."
She pushed her face closer so that their noses almost touched.
"You will stop treating Nadayshana like this. You said yourself you do not love her like a mother should. And so, you shall not behave like her mother anymore... at all. You will not take Nadayshana away from Zulu's reach anymore when she does not want so."

Her eyes narrowed dangerously. And once she spoke again, her voice came out as a low hiss.
"You will never again do her mental harm by constantly taking her away from where she wishes to be and then ignoring her. If you do, I will take Leela away from you. You are not deserving to have an adopted daughter when you can not and will not even raise your own..."

She paused, staring calmly into Sereana's eyes. She knew the group couldn't hear what she was telling the lioness. And she was glad, because never had she used this kind of tone. Something in protecting the cubs - all the cubs - called to her and made her like this. And so, when she spoke her final words, each of them came out slowly, her pose and tone of voice clearly stating she was not afraid of possible outbursts from the lioness.
"Do I make myself clear... Sereana...? Do you understand, that one, ONE wrong move and you will be all alone with no daughter at all...?"

[Sarafina]

Sereana held her gaze. She didnt move or care when she said that she couldnt have Nadayshana any more. But when she said Leela, her heart broke. Her head turned towards the group and she watched Leela with Karensha. She swallowed and looked back at Seleter.
"Yes.."
Was all that came out. It came out at a oft whisper. She swallowed again and turned back. She then walked slowly with tears in her eyes. She looked over at Nadayshana with no emotion. That little beast did this to her. She looked at Seleter and continued to make her way towards Leela.
"Thank you Karensha.."
She whispered taking Leela and lickin her head over and over. She nuzzled her and held her close. She bent her head down and whispered:
"Mommy loves you so much Leela.. Ill never let anything happen to you.."
She sighed and licked her head again. She looked over at Shana who was shaking in Zulus arms. She knew shed be happier if wasnt in her life.

[Tamber]

Shana's little body shook in Zulu's arms. He shushed her calmingly, stroking her back and reassuring her quietly. The king cheetah glanced discretely every once in a while at Seleter and Sereana, but could not see much happening besides flapping gums. Seleter simply looked severely interested in what Sereana was saying.

The king cheetah was sure he knew what Seleter wished to speak of, but he had no idea how she would say it. It seemed that Sereana's issue with Shana was so awkward and complicated. He had tried to get them to spend time together once or twice, assuming they just needed to get re-acquainted. Still, days had gone by and Sereana became more and more reluctant to speak to Shana, and Shana cried into Zulu's fur more and more, until her crying had finally become incessant.
_________________________
Duna sat quietly atop Night Flame's head, moving one toe around in a circle, creating a little cowlick in his purplish fur. She glanced once or twice at Seleter and Sereana speaking in the distance, but she was not too interested, since she couldn't hear anything from the conversation. The cub lioness had been wondering why Shana was always hanging on Zulu and why her mother never seemed to speak to her. She had gathered at one point that Leela had been adopted by Sereana, but Duna wasn't sure why Nadayshana seemed so out of the picture.

Mozying off into other thoughts, Duna recalled the time Night Flame told her she was strong. She smiled at this memory, still amazed that such a big, strong male lion could think so highly of her.

At one point, losing interest in her thoughts and remembering the fact that Seleter and Sereana were still off alone, she looked out at them again. They were still quite far off, far enough that it was hard for her to see any of their gestures, but she did notice something. Just as she looked up she thought she could see Seleter move her face in close to Sereana's. Duna's ears shot up in alert. If Seleter was angry, it couldn't have been good. Duna trusted her judgement.

[genie]

Leela was taken by Karensha and they were running.. well she was riding, and the wind was blowing in her face and she did enjoy it, something seemed up with Sereana and Shana but she didn't understand what, she didn't see what could be wrong, seleter was talking to her and Shana was with Zulu but what she meant to do? She was a little cub, who would tell her anything... so she just enjoy the run in her simple childish way, then after a while they stopped and Sereana came back and took her back saying how much she loved her, Leela was confused looking at her but just said in a squeaky voice "I love you too mummy"

*****************

Memkra was walking quietly with Maisha saying little as she talked, he was watching her, he thought she was pushing herself as to not be a burden but he replied to the last part "Yes it was good that we heard it... at least that means they can hear us... and hopefully are coming to meet us". He continued watching her, he just didn't feel her walking was a honest assessment of how she was at this time.

[Sarafina]

Nadayshana sniffled and shook. She looked up to Zulu with ehr big eyes.
"Wh..whats goi...ing to happen..to me..now..?"
She knew that her mother wasnt going to be there for her anymore. But she didnt have a father, who was going to be her caretaker? She sniffled and snuggled into him more.

She knew this was all of her fault for doing this. She sighed. and wiped her face with her paw. She then layed down and covered ehr face with a paw. She didnt want to be here. She took a glance over at NightFlame and quickly looked away Her life was now completely in shambles. She started crying again but it was silent. She wanted out. She didnt even care if they kicked her out now... she wanted out.

[Kirsui]

Seleter held the lioness' gaze firmly and without blinking. She could see the emotion run through the lioness' eyes, and she saw how the lioness' heart broke when Leela was mentioned. But she didn't back down, because right now Nadayshana's well being was all that mattered.

"Yes.."

The golden cheetah released the breath she had been holding and watched how Sereana walked back to the group. She knew Sereana was upset, and that she - Seleter - was the cause of this. And yet when she saw Sereana look at Nadayshana, she knew the lioness wouldn't think this way. She would blame Nadayshana, the cub who shared the same blood.

Seleter sighed, then forced herself to look calm as she returned to the group. She paid no attention what so ever to Sereana. In her eyes, the lioness had sunk to the lowest possible station in the group.

"Wh..whats goi...ing to happen..to me..now..?"

Seleter walked right to Zulu and Nadayshana. She locked her gaze with the king cheetah before she spoke out her whispered question.
"May I...?"
She settled herself down to the ground so that she was closer to Nadayshana. She made no further move to touch the cub, as she feared she might think Seleter was trying to take her away from Zulu as well. Instead she chose to wait and let Nadayshana decide if she'd like to come to her.

"Nadayshana..."
Seleter tilted her head slightly.
"What makes you ask that?"
She smiled gently, and just like always when she smiled to a cub, the warm emotion filled her light purple eyes.
"You will not be abandoned. None of what is happening is your fault."

She lifted her head slightly, her eyes still on Nadayshana but her next words would be directed to the whole group.
"Would anyone of you think Nadayshana is to blame of something, and were I to find out, I will make sure your travel with this group will not be pleasant."
She stood up and finally allowed her gaze to wander on every member of the group. Her smile was gone, and her calmness had been replaced with determination.
"From us who are currently present, I have been longest with this group. And as the longest member, my duty in this group and for this group is to make sure no one is hurt physically or emotionally by any other group member."

Her gaze stopped momentarily on Night Flame. Oh yes, the dark adolescent had hurt two of the cubs, but with Duna the damage seemed to have been repaired. She narrowed her eyes sharply ad the dark lion, a warning that he had better repair the damage he had caused for Nadayshana as well.

"Were something to happen..." she continued with a lowered voice.
"I will take suitable actions. Do you all understand what it can mean...?"
She shook her head and sighed, glancing at Nadayshana before she begun walking away without really wanting any replies to her question.
"Lets help Memkra and Maisha now, shall we?"

And during the whole time the golden cheetah hadn't given one glance at Sereana. She wouldn't do so anymore unless it was really necessary. She had made her point clear in the private chat, and so that would be enough.

She saw movement from her eyecorner and a quick glance revealed Night Flame had begun walking after her. Seleter couldn't help but smile at Duna on top of the dark lion's head, and the fact he didn't seem to mind a bit what the cub was doing to his fur with her paw.

[Tamber]

Zulu watched Sereana rush over to Leela and hug her with all her might, expressing her infinite love and devotion to her. This angered Zulu greatly. Where was Nadayshana in this affection?

Shana seemed to be farther ahead in the game than he was, for she heaved into him and asked what would happen to her. Not knowing the answer or how she was so sure that something would change, the king cheetah glanced up to Seleter, who was returning to the group. Her stare seemed frustrated, yet not angry. He looked at her intently and released his paw from Shana as she asked to see her, if the cub so chose to enter her grasp.

Seleter's words echoed what had taken place without describing it literally. She looked at every member of the group except Sereana, her speaking grew determined and serious, and she kept her gaze on Nadayshana for the most part. The deed was done. Nadayshana would no longer belong to Sereana, and life would have to go on without them being together.

The group was quite silent after this speech. Zulu couldn't help but feel blind. Sereana had never truly loved her daughter and had only hurt her. Sure, he might have helped the cub a bit, but he could have done more for her before it got to this point. He supposed that he had never really considered that a mother's love could be false. His connection with his mother had always been wonderful. It was his father that was the problem. So if Zulu had had problems with a parent as a cub, why did he let it go on with Shana?

He decided to put his thoughts on himself off for later. Seleter had taken care of the problem, and though it hit hard at this moment, he knew it would eventually be for the better. They had to get off and find the other two, so he swallowed his self-criticism and stood up to lead the others to the entry of the gorge. He waited for Shana to make her decision on who to go with.

Stretching a paw out to his fellow cheetah, Zulu touched his paw to her arm and discretely lipped the words, "Thank you," to her, barely letting out a whisper and gazing into her purple eyes with honesty.

[Sarafina]

Nadayshana listened to Seleter and then looked over at Zulu. Her words made her think hard. She nevr wanted to leave Zulu. But she didnt know if he wanted her. She looked up at Zulu.
"Zulu...can I..ride with you.....?"
She sniffled and hid her face. She looked over at Seleter and smiled a little. Her eyes gazed at Sereana and Leela. She started crying hard again. She looked at the ground and started following the others. She didnt want to see Sereana and Leela. She looked back at Zulu. Ten she realised something. Now she REALLY had no family. Her body shok as she stood there. Now she just wanted to snuggle into Zulu..or someone who cared.. She looked forward at Seleter. She wanted to go over and hug her and say thank you. But she didnt have the guts or enough strength to move. She stood there and looked back at Zulu.

[Dakota]

Karensha stood there watching the by play between Seleter and Sereana, and so had apparantly the rest of the group, everyone just stood and watched and waited.
There were no raised voices involved, it looked like Seleter had handled things in her own quiet way again.

The snow leopards eyes narrowed when Sereana came over to her and took Leela from off her back and moved her away, she stood there for a moment puzzled as to why she wasn't allowed to spend time with the cub.

Realising time was awasting, they needed to head off to follow Maisha and Memkra. she turned away from the lioness and cub and a about to move when her eyes landed on on Shana, She was sitting there crying and looking nervously at Zulu.

Looking from one to the other, Karensha made the decision straight away.Moving over to Shama. she bent down and gave her a nudge with her paw.

" Shana, you need to stop with the tears, I know you are hurt by what your mother is doing, but others here care for you as well. Seleter has spoken up for you, and zulu is ready to look after you, we all are, so don't think you are alone. Now you need to be a brave girl and come and help us find the others... are you ready...If you want to ride with Zulu, just go over to him, he is waiting.."

Using her paw Karensha gave the cub a final push and moved towards the back of the pride, ready to take her place one again.

[Sarafina]

Nadayshana nodded and shook all the way to Zulu. She didnt want to be here right now. Alone would be great. She couldnt wait until tonight. Then, she would run and just stay with the stars. Shed talk to her dad and maybe he could help her.

As of right now, she didnt want anyone in this little group but Zulu. But knowing him, he wouldnt want to be her faily. So now she was alone. She sighed and shook her head. Her legs followed the others and stayed close to Zulu. She could see Sereana and Leela and couldnt believe it. She sniffled and looked at Zulu. She sighed and looked away.

[Tamber]

Shana asked Zulu if she could go with him, and he was silently joyed that she chose him. He still did not know what it was about him that she liked so much, other than the fact that he had tried to be there for her, at least.

"Of course you can, babe," he said to her. Seeing her sob again and hearing Karensha try to reassure her, he picked her up and set her upon his back. Zulu wasn't sure if Shana would ever be happy again. He didn't have a fatherly instinct, just a brotherly one, and he had no idea how to console her. Still, he felt like he should try.

The king cheetah trotted to the front of the group, ready to lead them to the decline that led into the gorge. "Well, let's be off, everyone," he called out just loud enough for all of them to hear. Everyone was quiet and reserved at the moment, seeing what had just taken place.

Staying up front and far enough away form the others so they couldn't listen in, he began to speak to Shana, trying to understand fully what was bothering her so he would better know how to help her.

"Naday," he began, "You're a wonderful, fun, amazing person, you know that?" Hearing no response except a few sniffles, he continued. "I mean it, Shana. I have always felt this way about you, and I know the others do, too. Your mother may not be close to you anymore, but I want you to understand that that is the one and only person who wants to separate herself from you. The rest of us? We would do anything for you, because you mean so much to us. Your father, though you can't see him, he still loves you, and he will live on forever in your heart. You're so great and fun to be around when you're happy, and anyone who passes by you on the savannah would be delighted to see you when you smile. See those birds up there?" he said as he looked up to three birds twirling around each other about ten feet above them. "They don't seem the least bit reluctant to be near you. In, fact, look how happy they are! And that grasshopper there by my feet. He's not stirring at all.

"Don't you see? Shana, I never want you to feel like you're alone, because you're not. You're surrounded by a world that welcomes you and a family that loves you. Just because you have no blood relatives who are close to you, it doesn't mean you have no family. You have a bigger, more wonderful and unique family than anyone else in this valley, I bet, or anyone in the sky or the water or in any valleys or mountains beyond this one. You're someone special, as are the rest of us, and we should all be very thankful and very proud of what we have right now."

Zulu paused, turning around and realizing he was farther ahead of the group than he had realized. He sat and looked back to his little friend. "You know, I was just like you once. I was dumped out on my own when I was your age, with absolutely no one to help me or love me. But you're luckier than I was. You have all of this, all of us, and we have you!" The cheetah grinned slyly at the cub and gave her a little noogy on her head. "So what do you say, kid? Dry those tears and forget about the past. Forget about what might happen in the future. Enjoy this moment, this day, right now, because it's all we really have."

[Dakota]

Slowly they walked on, Maisha felt as though the lion was watching her every move and it was making her a tad jumpy, she was fine she wasn't going to faint at his feet or anything. Looking ahead, she squinted her eyes, a bit puzzled she tilted her head to one side.

"Memkra why are there two trees walking towards us, especially seeing as how they are bright yellow, they look a bit str....."

Not getting out any more words,especially as she had plenty to say about those trees, she found no sound would come, and her tongue seemed glued to the roof of her mouth. Her head started pounding as though someone was slapping her over the back of her head continously, and then everything started turning upside down and all the lioness could see was Memkras fury feet coming up to meet her.

[genie]

Memkra looked her - Maisha didn't seem right and wasn't entirely making sense, he nuzzle her cheek to get her to stop before saying to her "Maisha are you sure you're ok, I think maybe it be a good idea if I carry you again so you can rest, I think you must be fatigued!" as he watched her concernly.

[Dakota]

Maisha could hear Memkra talking to her, but she coudn't get anything past her lips to tell him how she was feeling, but at the same time blackness descended over her.

One minute she was staring at the lion in front of her the next she was transported back to that cave on the hill, watching as Memkra, Sheek and Mino came closer to her, finding her hiding place.
Relaxing her body, Maishas memories came flooding back, days when life was easier, when all four of them just talked ate and played. then when Seleter joined their small group, the lone cheetah among them. Her last thoughts were on having to say goodbye to Sheek then Mino as they started their journey,till finally Karenhsa joining with them.

Lying there dreaming, she was woken back up, everything turning grey then bright lights shining on her face. Cautiously opening one eye then the other, she saw Memkra leaning over her, moving her head she asked in a croaky voice "where's Sheek and Mino, we were all together Memkra, have they gone away again ?"

[genie]

Memkra looked at her, what was she talking about, he figured she was not well, she should know what it was that she was asking question too, gently he place a paw on her back and said quietly "They left us a while ago, don't you remember? Don't worry... I'm here, I'll get you to the others...". Memkra gave a reassuring hug before sliding his head under her body and levering her body onto his back, seeing her look like protesting he added "Hush.. you need rest... leave it to me to carry you..." the same gentleness in his voice, though despite his calm tone he felt worried, he needed to get her away from this bad land... Maisha definately was't herself.

[Kirsui]

Seleter had wondered for a moment where exactly in the group she should walk. She wanted to keep an eye on Sereana, because she had no idea what the lioness would come up with next. But... she knew the lioness wouldn't likely do a thing, seeing as how Zulu had taken Nadayshana ahead of them all and, by the looks of it, was trying to comfort the small cub.

"Thank you."

She didn't know what it was, but something in the words Zulu had whispered to her before they begun moving again made her feel... Well, she didn't know what exactly, but the mere thought brought a faint smile to her muzzle.

So she kept walking somewhat ahead of everyone else - except Zulu who was ahead of them all - but still so that from her eyecorner she saw Night Flame walk half behind and half beside her. She didn't need to look back to know Karensha was propably keeping the tail, and she definitely didn't want to check what Sereana was doing. She just hoped that little Leela would be all right.

[Sarafina]

Nadayshana smiles and nods. Listens to him and tries not to cry more but in hapiness.

"Zulu...My..Daddy said the...same things. Well almost. He said.... that I was special...and that...Id always be. No matter what happened.He told me...that mommy would always love me in her own way. But she doesnt. My dad was..like you. Thats why...I cry.. Sometimes."

She sighed and snuggles closer. She wanted to let Zulu know that she really cared about him. She sighed and shook her head.

"Zulu... you have kept me together. If you werent here, especially the night i was alone, I wouldnt be here. Id be somewhere else alone, or I could be...dead. I need you and you cant leave me..."

Shana was serious. She stopped crying and was just staring at him from his back.She smiled and giggled a little.

"You arent alone either...If you ever need someone to talk to, Im here...Okay? Promise youll talk to me about anything...?"

. . . . .

Sereana was now hated she knew. She lifted Leela up and walked slow. She stayed alone knowing no one was going to talk to her. Shesighed and watched Shana and Zulu. She was happier with him and she knew it. It was Leela who se was worried about....

[Tamber]

Zulu grinned at the cub, his heart skipping abeat when he heard her let out a small giggle and stop crying. And although he knew he was not alone, it felt good every once in a while to hear someone say it.

"I know that Shana," he said with a grin. "And I promise. I know you'll be of more help than anyone else.

"Now how 'bout we quit this moping. The others know to just follow me. They know the general direction. Let's go off. Keep ourselves entertained. You up for that?" he asked with a big sly grin. Not waiting for an answer, he started trotting off toward a rocky area he saw up ahead. As he hopped along, he began to trot more clumsily, making Shana bounce up and down and cling to the scruffy fur on his neck. Before long he was bucking up and down like a mad bull, laughing and having the best time. Finally he took off, just below his full speed, toward the expansive rocky terrain, and he could feel Shana's claws digging in to him.
____________________________________
Duna watched ahead of her as Zulu talked to Shana and soon began doing the strangest things. He looked like he had gone mad, but she could see the happiness in his eyes, and she couldn't help but smile at him. He could be pretty funyn at times.

The cub lay her head down again, crossing her paws as they were buried in Night Flame's mane. "Night Flame," she began, keeping her head relaxed upon her paws, "why did you call me strong? What makes you think I'm strong? I mean...no one else seems to think so. I'm just a cub, and people always expect a cub's personality from me. I never seem to convince anyone otherwise." Duna had pondered this for a while, and she was dying to know the answer.

[Dakota]

Karensha was grateful that at last they had decided to start moving, the longer they dallied, the worse the situation could be for Maisha and Memkra.
Leaning out to her right, she counted heads, just to double check. They needed to all stay together as it could possibly take every single one of them, cubs included to use their skill and energy to bring the others back to them, then they could carry onto Tali peak.

Watching Sereana in front of her carrying Leela, trying to hold her self back from joining the others, the snow leopard felt sorry for her..yes she had annoyed her, always taking Leela back as though somehow she was going to hurt her, and yes for some reason she was pushing her own flesh and blood away from her, but.. she was still in their group, she was one of them and they needed her like she needed them.

Moving along side her, Karensha just kept matching her paw for paw, she didn't really know what to say to Sereana, but she also didn't want her to be an outcast, she was still Nadayshana's mother, no matter what was happening. Opening her muzzle she closed it again How I wish Maisha was here, she's the one whos good at all this chit chat and small talk...what do I say..

" So...nice day for a walk isn't it." karensha couldn't believe what came out of her mouth, rolling her eyes, she tried again.
" what I mean is..well...oohh Sereana, I'm sorry I'm useless at small talk..let me start again. Umm.. well I'm sorry that your talk with Seleter was overheard by everyone, but you know something had to be done as Naday I think was about to run away she was so sad. But.. you are her mother, and we all don't know what has happened between you and also her father, maybe one day you might like to tell us what has caused you and Naday to drift apart, and maybe things slowly can be mended between you. I never knew my mother, how I wish that was different, but I can't change my life, you and Naday can if you wish."

As Karensha started to step back, she softly spoke again to Sereana. " No one hates you, maybe disapointed, probably just confused at why its happening, but please stay with us."
Giving Leela a smile, the snow leopard pulled two flowers from an overhanging bush and presented them to the cub." There you go one foryou and one for your mother."

Again she moved back, looking all around her, just surveying the area and keeping an eye on things.

[Kirsui]

"why did you call me strong?"

Night Flame thought for a moment at how to word out his answer to Duna's question. He knew his reasons why he had said that, he just didn't know how to speak them out. That, or he was afraid to.

"Strength comes in many ways", he finally said with his low voice.
"There is strength so that you can do things others would be too weak to do, lift heavy objects, run for ages without getting tired..."
He paused.
"But there is other type of strength too, that you can do things others would be too scared to do."
His ears twiched, as if he wanted to flatten them...
"You were afraid of me, were you not? And yet here you are, riding on my back..."
He sighed softly with a slightly sad expression on his face.
"In a way you are stronger than I am, Duna. I have my own fears, but unlike you I have ran away from them instead of facing them like I should."

Night Flame fell silent for a moment, apparently deep in thought. He looked into the distance without really seeing anything, the sad expression stuck tightly on his face. Then he seemed to get hold of himself, and a faint smile even came to his muzzle.
"I did not apologise yet", he said.
"But I am sorry of what I made you go through."

[Sarafina]

Nadayshana squealed happily. She hid her face and dug her claws in. She didnt want to hurt him. She also didnt want to fall off. She giggled and watched as he went faster and ran. Her claws gently let go a little. She knew that she could hold on to him now. She smiled and giggled more.
"Woooo!! Your fast!!!!"
She said smiling and looking around. Her eyes were wide as he continued running. This was the firist time she stopped just to relax and enjoy where she was. She sighed and knew that Sereana not being closer could be a good thing. Yes she would miss her, but she would have to deal. Things ran through her head. Who was going to be her actual guardian? WOuld she be passed around again until someone does want her? She shrugged and giggled again.
"This is a- MAZING Zulu..."
She wrapped her arms around his neck and snuggled and giggled louder. She smiled and looked around. This place was amazing. She sighed and left a small smile on her face. She snuggled closer and watched. She had no clue where he was taking her.

. . . . .

Sereana listened and was stunned. She put Leela on her back and sighed. She closed her eyes and let her head hang. Why did she let this happen? She sighed and looked up to see Shana squeaing happily with Zulu. She looked at Leela and licked her head.
"Mommy loves you so much... I hope you know I mean that darling..."
She couldnt loose Leela. She didnt know why, but Leela was her life now. Something was different between them. Leela needed her. Nadayshana needed someone else. She always did need someone else. Sereana sighed and kept walking slow. She didnt want to be near anyone. She said no one hated her, but she knew that wasnt true. He head hung again and stared at the ground as she walked. Maybe...Maybe giving Leela to someone and leaving WAS the best idea... Its not like anyone needed her here.

[Tamber]

"You were afraid of me, were you not? And yet here you are, riding on my back...In a way you are stronger than I am, Duna. I have my own fears, but unlike you I have ran away from them instead of facing them like I should."

Duna listened intently, trying to understand fully what Night Flame was telling her. It made her wonder herself why she had always been interested in Night Flame, from the moment he entered the group. She had always felt like she would be able to get closer to him, to learn more about him. He intrigued her, but she didn't know why.

Then she entertained the idea that maybe it was because he seemed so alone. He had always been so quiet and reserved, leaving the rest of the group on their way to do as they wish, while he simply laid low. He was a mystery to Duna, and more often than not, Duna felt like she was a mystery to the rest of the world. She had never expected anyone to truly understand her, after all that she had been through alone. Night Flame seemed the same way, as if he had had a haunting past that wiped out his life and left him on his own, as she had. Duna wanted to understand him, and perhaps she had always wanted him to understand her.

"I did not apologise yet, but I am sorry of what I made you go through."

Duna's ears perked up, as she was surprised to hear Night Flame speak again after what seemed like several minutes. She grinned, finally feeling like she had come to a true amends with him. "I forgive you," she said with a smile. "And I'm sorry I pried into your life like that. It was rude of me." Duna's ears flattened at the memory of seeing him cry, and the guilt began rushing back to her again.
_______________________________________
It was unlike any feeling in the world when Zulu finally heard Nadayshana laugh again. And not just once, but many times. She giggled and chuckled and laughed out loud, and Zulu couldn't have been happier. The last time he had heard her laugh was about this time the day before, and he had forgotten what a wonderful sound it was.

Finally Zulu reached the rocky terrain. The ground was nothing but rocks, just an enormous, expansive jumble of embedded boulders. The cheetah turned around, happy to see that the group was still somewhat in view. Turning around again he spoke to his little friend. "Alright, let's explore, shall we?"

Zulu trotted around for a minute or two, stepping upon the large rocks and peering between them in the dark crevices that they created. A few small rodents emerged from between them, and sometimes they would hear the crackle of a few rocks jumbling about as something stirred.

They reached a part of the rocky area that dipped off toward a watering hole, surrounded by some trees. Zulu hesitated going down the hill, wanting to stay in plain sight of the others. "Perhaps we'll head back and check this place out a bit later," he said. "Hope you're ready for another ride!"

Turning around to return to the group, Zulu heard the trees rustle behind him. Assuming it was another cute little animal, he turned around to let Naday see it. But the cheetah saw nothing in the rocky clearing. The trees and small shruberies rustled once more, but nothing could be seen.

Zulu giggled. "How 'bout a little hunting practice, Shana? Bet'cha can't catch a fuzzy little rat hiding in the bushes."

The cheetah bent over slightly and walked stealthily toward the greenery. He still saw nothing, but held his quirky expression, ready for a little groundhog to burst out at any moment. Zulu lowered his head and sniffed, trying to catch the scent. Something did catch his nose's attention, but it was not something the cheetah had expected. It was rank, this smell, absolutely repulsive, and it smelled nothing like the little rodent he had been expecting. No, this smelled much bigger.

[genie]

Karensha talked to Sereana a little before suddenly handing Leela and flower for herself and her mother but Sereana carried on, Leela did't understand what was wrong and tilted her head to one side and then the other side as if it would help her figure out things as she rode on Sereana's back. After a while she stood and perched her front feet on Sereana's head saying "Momma whats wrong??" in a squeeky voice, after not getting a reply for a second she leaned or tried to lean over her head so that her head would be upside down but their eyes meeting one another but it did't work out. A moment later her head bumped on Sereana's nose and she went head over heals and landed on the floor in front of Sereana on her back, she eyes swelled and she did't look like she knew if she should cry or not, Leela had't been hurt from the fall but she had winded herself and the suprise and shook of suddenly falling was helping the tears swell up.

[Dakota]

well. it looks like Sereana doesn't want to talk but to keep to herself, I did try .
Karensha was about to look away when she saw Leela move up higher andthen take a nose dive and land on her little back right in front of the lioness. Digging in her paws she was about to run and pick her up, but then remembered Sereanas attitude towards her, it seemed that she thought Karensha wasn't good or safe enought o be around her daughter.

Stopping herself the snow leopard, moved off the side of the track and stood behind a bush, just waiting, she wasn't about to walk past them and leave the rear unguarded, but she wasn't in the mood to talk to Sereana again soon.
Sitting down on her rump, she could still see the others up ahead. Duna with Nightflame, Zulu with Naday and Seleter sticking close by, even Sereana had Leela.. and where was she..., by herself as usual, sighing slowly, she instead looked up at the sky and just closed her eyes imagining good thoughts, that always did the trick.

[Sarafina]

Sereana looked at Leela and sighed. She smiled a little and licked her chest to help her breathe. She nuzzled her.
"Are you okay love?"
She asked softly. She nuzzled her again and saw the look she was getting from Karensha. She looked at Leela and smiled letting tears swell into her eyes. She licked Leela.
"Baby girl, you know Mommy love you very much...right? "
She was having a thought of letting Karensha take her and Sereana just leaving. She caused so much already. She lifted Leela and kept her in her mouth. She then walked next to Karensha. Sereana put her on her own back and looked at Karensha.
"Sorry for not talking...I couldnt... Im sorry. I dont think i should.. "
Sighs and cant finish her thought. She wanted to stay here and raise Leela, and watch Shana grow up. But with the way everyone was acting towards her, she rather just leave them.
"Karensha....I cant..do this...alone.... And thats whats gonna happen.."
She knew that Karensha was the last person that wanted to help her..But..She neededit.

. . . . .

Nadayshana was about to jump into the bush whe a huge paw came stepping out. She squealed and ran backwards into Zulu.
"Z...ulu..."
Cries a little and snuggles into him. Wanted to go back and snuggle with Zulu.
"Im scared...."
Snuggles into his arm.

[genie]

Leela was licked by Sereana and it felt so nice and comfitting and a small smile formed on her face as she looked up at her adopted mother with big wide eyes, the small things could mean so much. Then as Sereana said about loving her Leela smiled and said "I love you momma... I love you so much" and gave her the look of simple adoring child love.

Then she was picked up and brought over to where Karensha was and set down on Sereana's back while Sereana and Karensha talked and she just swished her tail slowly across her back while they discussed. For her she didn't understand what the current problems were... she simply loved her mum with all her heart.

[Dakota]

Maisha came to, finding herself being carried on Memkras back once again. A small groan passed her lips as her head banged against his neck, opening her eyes slowly she could see they were still down in the ravine.With her voice croaky from lack of fluids she still managed to speak above a whisper to the lion

"Memkra.. can you stop, I need to get down and sit still for a moment without any movement, everything is just going around in circles...please."

Lying there on his back waiting for him to slow down and let her off, she brushed her cheek against his manefinding the sensation quite plesurerable hmm a girl could get used to this .
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Karensha realised she was dallying and moved away again coming up behind Sereana with Leela sitting on her back.
Her eyes narrowing she was a bit surprised when she saw the lioness slow down and come along side her and try and make conversation.

"Karensha....I cant..do this...alone.... And thats whats gonna happen.."
The snow leopard turned and looked at her curiously.
"what do you mean alone Sereana, all you need to do is ask any of us if you need help, you will not be ignored. Everyone just can't understand how you can be so loving to a cub that is not your flesh and blood, yet cannot even give your own cub a small percentage of that caring."

Karensha turned away and looked at Leela who was lookng at her from the lioness back, and leaned down and blew on her fur, giving her a smile at the same time. Moving her eyes back to Sereana "Is there some sort of explanation you would like to tell me, or would you rather wait, its fine by me... but we wont desert you, you are part of our group and where we go, you and Leela come with us."

[Sarafina]

Sereana shook her head.
"No... The explanation... She was unlanned... I was young...He wanted a cub.. He loved her... I just... didnt bond with her."
She sighs and shakes her head again. Her paws slowly moved along the grass. Her nose gently nuzzled across Leelas back. Her muzzle turned into a small smiles. The thoughts in her mind ran around. It felt as though she was gong to like... Die. She just wanted everything back to normal. She wanted her mate back ....

(I didnt know what to do..)