Chasing Sunlight

Iseult sneered in disgust as she kicked a rock away. She hated the Outlands with every fibre of her being- with it almost bordering on complete and utter loathing. Aside from the termite mounds, nothing ever grew or thrived there- just as dead and lifeless as the elephant graveyard...If not more. Welcome to the badlands, where there’s barely any food and the only thing they have to offer is endless sun. Iseult mused sardonically, bitterness radiating from her. So why Iseult she even there to begin with? Unfortunately for them, their destination was past the Outlands… And to make matters worse, the quickest way to get there was traversing the Outlands.

So far, they supposed they were lucky to not have the unfortunate experience of running into any lions due to one simple reason. Iseult absolutely could not stand being asked about what she had been doing. Not only giving the answers away would betray her new reputation as a “ghost” but she didn’t trust anyone enough for her to tell them. Or like them enough, for that matter. I’m taking take that information to my grave. But pushiness aside, at least some of them had enough intelligence to stay clear of this hell-hole. Same with the hyenas. Seems they grew a brain and went elsewhere. Makes my life so much easier. The silver lion mused, a satisfied smile appearing on their muzzle as relief flooded through them.

Iseult didn’t need to fight anyone. Or flee from them on the other hand. She could take a moment to breathe for once. And despite it feeling weird, it wasn’t unwelcome. If anything- it was a much needed change of pace. No more having to look over her shoulder every five minutes, no more needing to scavenge for food. And most of all, no more having to worry about being chased off by other rogues...Iseult could even let herself relax. There’s no-one around to see me, I might as-

However it was at that moment she heard the high-pitched cries of someone rather young. Silver ears pricked up as amber eyes darted around to determine the source of the cries. They fell upon a golden-furred cub, who was desperately trying to capture a meal. Iseult watched the child try to climb after a mouse, secretly hoping they would capture it. However, fate was not on the side of the golden-furred child. The mouse managed to scurry away to safety. Iseult scowled, scrunching their muzzle in distaste- almost offended Nia’s behalf that it had managed to escape. But upon hearing Nia whine, Iseult’s scowl disappeared. Seeing the cub so defeated hurt.

Iseult knew that sorrowful look well… The lone cub reminded the lion of themself, almost a little too much. Flattening their ears, Iseult felt a twinge of pity. She wasn’t heartless... She couldn’t let the cub go hungry. There had to be more mice nearby- the brave little escapee couldn’t have been the only one in the entire Outlands. It was impossible. The termite mounds. Of course. They’re the only source of food in this...Place.. Narrowing her eyes, Iseult padded past Nia towards the largest termite mound. If those dumb pests have enough brain cells, they’ll be he- perfect. Iseult’s eyes lit up as they spotted cream-coloured mice devouring whatever unfortunate termite happened to be outside. Unsurprisingly, their deaths were swift- meeting the business end of Iseult’s maw.

Returning to Nia, they dropped three mice at the cub’s feet. Granted they weren’t the one the golden cub had been hunting— that mouse was long gone— but it was better than nothing. Iseult sat down next to the cub, amber eyes gazing at distant termite mounds. “Saw some vultures ahead picking at bones. If you want a more substantial meal, just say the word.” She growled lowly, eyes warily flicking over to Nia to gauge her reaction.

Iseult almost slapped herself as she watched Nia’s reaction. You idiot. In retrospect, practically sneaking up on the lone cub and suddenly dumping food at her feet hadn’t been a good move whatsoever. So, Iseult lowered their eyes and titled their gaze submissively- to show Nia that they weren’t a threat and had no intentions to harm her. But if that hadn’t been enough, Iseult sheathed her claws. “It’s okay, it’s okay. I’m not going to hurt you kid. I just want to help.” She murmured, trying to be soothing and settle Nia’s fears. The poor thing was terrified. And honestly, seeing the golden-furred cub like that hurt. Nia was a child: she shouldn’t be worrying about getting her next meal. Her biggest concern should’ve been making friends. In that regard, Iseult felt like she was talking to a younger version of herself. It was awful, being alone and hungry. And so, they decided to help Nia out. The decision was very much split-second, but Iseult didn’t care whatsoever. The repercussions would come later, they always did, but for now they were going to feed Nia.

In response to the question, Iseult gave the cub a surprised look, raising their eyebrows. “Do you have a reason for every impulse decision you’ve made?” They offered, tone monotonous yet still teasing. Sure the lioness had technically agree to help Nia, but that didn’t mean Iseult would immediately tear down her walls or deciding to be best friends with the golden-furred cub. After all, Iseult had never been one to trust freely: of course Nia wasn’t an exception. In time, perhaps she might trust her but that depended on a variety of ever-changing factors. Namely, if they would ever happen to cross paths after this encounter.

“Slow down kid. Eat the mice first.” Iseult mused as she saw Nia lick her jaws. “Your enthusiasm is acknowledged, but in case that better meal happens to fly away, you still had something to eat.” And speaking of that better meal… Iseult glanced back to the termite mounds. If they were quick about it, the lions could catch the vultures before they finished cleaning off whatever carcass their beady eyes had spotted. If not, then Nia would most likely be stuck eating mice. Iseult flicked her tail and scrunched up her muzzle in clear distaste. Awful option. Perhaps there’s still a few hyenas around. No-one would miss one, would they? They wondered as Nia debated her own options. Ultimately the final decision was Nia’s, and Iseult would let her come to it on her own terms. So it was no surprise they were silent as Nia spoke and gave the cub no judgement. No matter what the final decision was, the lioness would find ways of helping the cub around it. After all they had already committed to feeding Nia anyways. Especially if they were sickly or old… Hmm, I like that backup.

However, whether intentional or not, Iseult had heard Nia’s words, silver ears pricking up. They would be lying if the sentiment didn’t tug on their heartstrings. Cause I was you once kid. Still am in some ways. However, Iseult did not voice her thoughts. Instead, she shrugged. “Felt bad… You looked like you needed the help.” They sighed and leaned closer to the cub. “But if you want that bigger meal, follow me.” Iseult called out as they padded towards the cluster of termite mounds. While thorns surrounded and encircled some, there were still some gaps between them- just enough to enable any visitors some room to climb up and over. The best (and now only) way to get around the Outlands was climbing over the mounds.

Iseult would never admit it aloud, but the more she learnt about Nia, the more her heart twisted and panged with pity. Unconsciously, her expression softened; amber gaze no longer as harsh as it usually was. Leave it to cubs and other young creatures to succeed where so many others had failed. Leave it to cubs to soften their edges… And their stony heart. Forget feeding her. I think I’m going to end up protecting her. Iseult mused, sighing internally. Protecting Nia would effectively mean Iseult was going to adopt her, and as much as that immediately presented itself with multiple challenges of varying difficulty… Iseult couldn’t leave her alone. Not like that. And certainly not within the Outlands. Whether she had realised it or not in that moment, Iseult had already made her decision.

The moment sealing her’s and Nia’s fate- the final nail in the coffin was the mention of Nia’s mother. Words of condolences died on their tongue. Saying “I’m sorry” wouldn’t change anything. It wouldn’t undo the death of Nia’s mother, or reverse the pain and mourning felt by her. Nor would it offer Nia any condolences or comfort. If anything, it would most likely serve as a cruel reminder as to what the golden-furred cub had lost. So, Iseult opted for another approach. “I wasn’t much of a hunter either around your age.” They began, softly, as if telling a secret. And in some ways, they were. “My fathers preferred me being the look-out. As did my mothers. But if you stick around long enough, I’ll teach you how to get better meals.” I can’t promise anything… But it’s better than nothing. Iseult mused, noting how the cub seemed to relax a little. And then proceeded to run after her as she left. Had their circumstances been different, Iseult may have found it almost endearing. Instead, watching it hurt.

Just feed her and get her somewhere else, now… She deserves so much better than this sorry existence… Than these shit cards she’s been dealt with. Iseult mused, the pain slowly ebbing away and being replaced by angry determination.“Don’t mention it Nia.” Iseult murmured, tone softer than it normally was. “Anyone with a heart would’ve done the same. Plus no-one’s gonna miss a few hopping mice.” They’ll make up and exceed the numbers before I can even blink. However upon being asked her name and where she came from, Iseult gave Nia an intrigued look, raising an eyebrow. So she wanted to know who they were? Alright. They would give her some details about themself- it was only fair to Nia, considering she had freely shared not only her name but some of her history.

“Call me Iseult. Or Roho… But my name doesn’t really matter.” The silver lion shrugged, although the air of nonchalance they had displayed wasn’t entirely genuine. If anything, there was a degree of roboticism hidden within it. Dead things don’t have names anymore, and neither do living dead things. They die as soon as we do. How delightfully morbid. They mused, gaze dancing with distant bitterness. Of course, Iseult did not dare voice her thoughts. The young cub didn’t need to know about that macabre part of her history. “And I came from around- I’m just passing through. It’s quicker than going around. Especially with all the thorns around...” Her muzzle scrunched up in distaste.

The Outlands were already the dead lands, the cactus lands. No-one came there, and it was honestly a miracle what little life dwelled had survived long enough. Adding a literal border of thorns was overkill. No, it was excessive overkill. “But speaking of going quicker-” She craned her head over Nia’s neck. Gently, she bit down on Nia’s scruff, eyes immediately flicking over to the young cub to see if she was causing her any pain. That was the last thing she wanted to do. Once she was certain Nia was fine, Iseult began her climb.      

“Really really.” Iseult repeated with a nod and a soft smile. “You seem to be talented enough, I might as well teach you how to get bigger meals.” It was true, any cub young as Nia who managed to survive in the Outlands by themselves must have some degree of talent when it came to survival. Plus, it didn’t make sense to not teach her- it wasn’t only the logical progression of Nia’s abilities, but also if the two were ever separated in the future at least Nia knew how to sufficiently feed herself. I like your optimism and enthusiasm, kid. Hold onto it. We’re in short supply of it at the moment, ever since that insipid war began, Iseult mused as they noted the way Nia’s eyes lit up at the prospect of learning how to hunt.

Goddamnit. Nia --Iseult’s new tiny, golden-furred adopted daughter-- was going to be the death of them. Forget protecting and feeding her. I’m going to end up becoming her mother instead. Granted, the prospect wasn’t unappealing at all, but Iseult still was a tad apprehensive. The silver lion had no idea how to parent at all, she would openly admit that, but for this tiny, adorable golden-furred bundle of optimism, she would try. Huh. I think I finally understand what a “maternal instinct is”, Iseult supposed: assuming it no doubt stemmed from her attachment to Nia. Understandably, it was why Iseult softly chuckled and shook her head when Nia tried pronouncing their name. It was a good attempt from the young cub, but she had just fallen short.

“That was a good attempt. You came a lot closer than most ever have.” They murmured, tone encouraging. And with that, the duo were climbing up the mound, with Iseult’s claws scratching into the surface. Honestly, while carrying Nia wasn’t a difficult task, it was certainly made that by trying to climb a termite mound AND trying to avoid the thorns wrapped around said termite mound. The lion lifted up her neck higher, and therefore Nia too, in order to avoid the brambles from scratching the cub. Granted, it meant that the brambles would scratch and maybe even cut Iseult instead, but if it meant Nia wasn’t hurt then they’d take that chance. Plus, the smell of blood might help in luring over the vulture.

At the question, Iseult’s eyes fell upon the golden cub as she began to climb down from the mound- having reached its peak. “Believe me, it’s fine. If it’s easier for you, then go for it.” She answered back with a shrug, voice slightly muffled behind Nia’s tiny body. Once they were on solid ground Iseult surveyed their surroundings, checking to see if the vulture had moved.

Fortunately for the duo, it hadn’t. The greedy glutton was still engrossed in its meal; Iseult felt a pleased smile tug at their lips behind Nia. Doing her best not to alert the feeding bird to their presence, the lion moved towards a smaller termite mound- one that looked relatively thorn-free. “Stay here and be quiet as possible. Don’t let anyone see you either.” They murmured softly as they gently placed Nia down. “I’ll be back.” Iseult added, amber eyes hardening. And with that, Iseult stepped away from Nia and began stalking towards the lone vulture, which was still picking at a hyena carcass.

Shenzi? Is that you? Iseult mused, contempt practically dripping off them.

Despite her moon-like colouration blatantly sticking out against the browns and muted palette of the Outlands, Iseult had managed to avoid drawing any attention to herself quite well. Not even the vulture had noticed her yet, greedy thing still eating without a care in the world. The lioness smiled to themself, more than pleased with the outcome. Instead of going straight for the vulture, as it would cause them to spot her and fly away, Iseult took the “scenic route”. Well, really it was just a better way of saying “the longer route”. Slowly, Iseult began to weave around and climb over the other termite mounds, careful to avoid harming themselves on the thorns. The plan was to try and go around the vulture’s radius until they were behind them. And then? Iseult would stalk and attack them.

It was a simple plan, but nonetheless effective. But more importantly, the poor bastard would never see their demise coming. The greedy thing looks like it struggling to rip something off. Perfect. She mused and lowered into a crouch, beginning to stalk over to the vulture. Each step was fluid and silent, bordering on ghost-like. It was something Iseult prided herself on, as her unique pelt made her stand out like a beacon so she had to learn how to be stealthy in other ways. Hence, learning to walk soundlessly. Once upon a time, it was near impossible. But now? It was easy as breathing.

When they were close enough, Iseult attacked. With surprising speed they pounced and landed on the vulture, pinning it down with heavy paws placed on its back. Naturally, it struggled to get free from her grasp and Iseult rolled their eyes. Resistance is futile. She mused with a growl, moving her head down towards the bird’s neck. The lion clamped their jaws around it and bit down hard, causing the vulture to cry out. They however flattened their ears against their skull, tuning out the sound. Blood began to run down their snowy muzzle, however Iseult didn’t stop. In her experience, blood didn’t always indicate death. Sometimes, it indicated the complete opposite and unsurprisingly, giving Nia a still alive vulture to consume was not ideal.

Once the vulture had stopped crying out and went limp within their jaws, Iseult eased the pressure they had placed onto the bird’s neck. Satisfied, they stepped over the hyena carcass, disappointment flickering in their eyes when they realised it was not Shenzi, and returned to Nia. Gently, she placed the bird at Nia’s feet. “Here you go: one vulture, as promised. Eat up kid.” They murmured as they licked the blood off their muzzle. Once the crimson liquid appeared to have been cleaned, they sat down and glanced around the surroundings with narrowed eyes. They would act as look-out while Nia ate, and a strange sensation overcame the lion. It was simultaneously both familiar, yet not. Iseult had been look out for most of her early cub-hood, but she had never anticipated repeating it. Glancing down at Nia as she ate, the barest hint of a smile spread across her muzzle.

She had never anticipated repeating it, but she would for this cub… There was no doubt about it, Iseult was most definitely attached to Nia. The sunny little cub had melted her defenses, whether she admitted it or not. “When you’re done, we’re going somewhere else- somewhere better.”