Forest Beds and Evening Skies

Sarabi had spared herself the troubles and stresses of running an army for a short while that day. The forest was green and exceedingly inviting, a gentle drizzle that broke the clouds and set a coolness across the beds of moss. Greenery littered this land like the dry reeds of the savannah. She often missed its heat, but the cool breezes of the sharp mountains around Arendelle were like a different kind of touch altogether. Not unpleasant. Different. But if she had her family and they were safe that was all that mattered to her, not where they resided. Speaking of.

She’d taken Kopa for a walk. Her grandson rarely asked for things out of the realm of her capabilities, and if family time was on the schedule then who was she to say no to his eager and endearing plea’s. They were a short way out from the encampment. Far enough to not hear the bustle of animals and troops too obnoxiously while still remaining within their patrolled borders. The evening despite the drizzle of rain was nice. Actually, rather peaceful, as the chirping of birds sounded overhead while they chattered among one another fussed over their meals and nests. Kopa often bounded to great lengths and around her legs, the pale cub resembling both his mother and father greatly. And the pale diamond upon the crest of his forehead. She fondly was reminded of ghosts and legends. But the agenda of today foretold of adventure, not stories.

“You’re too fast for grandma now, that’s for sure.” Sarabi chuckled as she padded along the loose forest trail likely used by deer and their scouting units. The lioness kicked it up a gear, her massive form trotting to catch up to her tiny grandson before giving his rump a gentle bump with the snout of her maw.

“Soon you’ll be able to outrun your dad. Strong as Tarzan and wise as Mufasa.” she cooed, snuffling a breath of hot air through her snout upon the top of Kopa’s sprouting red mane. There was a disturbance briefly, and the lioness slowed her pace and lifted her head. Not immediately alarmed, but aware as she looked to engage with whomever approached the Queen and her grandson. Amber gaze rested upon a young lion, tan pelt with a still filling out mane. She noted his azure eyes and something knowledge base arose in the back of her mind. The Queen liked to be aware of recruits, at least familiar, in the event she got to run in with them and communicate.

This recruit in particular had a bit of a story behind him, from her recollection. But if that was at the forefront of her thoughts the regal lioness certainly didn’t show it, a kind smile taking to her maw as she regarded him politely while raising her chin to see him better. Perhaps he was out on patrol? Her units, soldiers and troops often kept busy and useful during the day. He could have been out here for any number of reasons.

“Evening.” she greeted calmly, highly aware of Kopa lingering somewhere near her side.