Rehabilitation of body and soul ((Hidaya))((AW))

[Kikao]

A pleasant smile crossed halfway over his maw, although a wave of searing pain seemed to overtake him at equal time. His approaching smile vanished, and his eyes close as he grimaces with pain. Yet he makes little noise, being used to the sudden “flash floods” of pain from time to time. When his lids finally part again, his expression washes from intense pain, to grueling fatigue. He takes in a deep breath, and enjoys the soothing sensation of the exhale, before his gaze returns to Kali. He had meant to nod and make a returning comment to what she had spoken about a pride. His pride. Although the pain had interrupted his thought, and he had forgotten the words he was preparing to speak. He did, however, have words to her next statement.

Kali, I am sure I speak for all of the pride when I say; you are welcome to stay here as long as you like. Should you continue to live here after I am healed, but don’t call yourself one of the pride, that is alright by me. However, don’t be surprised if you get caught up with people coming to you for help and healing.

This time his smile was not disrupted by the arduous pain, and he managed to hold it for a short while before the soreness of his facial muscles became a burden. He shifted his body slightly, slowly as he had done every time, and slowly lowered his head to lay it upon the ground. The vertigo had begun to return to him, and he no longer felt well enough to keep himself sitting up. He still watched her, though occasionally his eyes would flick one direction and back again, the dizziness occasionally coming and going.

What a headache… Actually I was wondering about that myself. I know any way to build stairs would take a long time, whether they are carved from the tree, or built of stone or other materials. I would fear climbing them anyway, if these dizzy spells don’t stop it would be my luck to get one right in the middle of walking them!

I was thinking of a solution that could be compiled in… perhaps little under a couple hours if you had a helper or two. Well… you would have to have a helper or two. Someone would need to go out and make a fresh kill… if no one is hungry then it could be a waste of meat, I suppose the scavengers could feast. With the help of some very thick or roped vines and an animal pelt, I believe we could make some sort of pulley that could lift me onto the main tree. You would need enough people to help lift me, though, but I don’t weight that much right about now…

You see, if we can braid some thick vines and swing them over that branch there, and thread the pelt to it, I could lie across the pelt and with enough weight on the other end of the vines, you guys could pull me up… It will be a great deal of trust on my part, because should they slip and drop me, I don’t know if I could live through the aggravation of the pain… but if there are a couple to help, then if one slips the others could most likely sustain me until they can start pulling again… The vines and pelt will have to be thick though, so the branch doesn’t cut the rope, and I do not fall through the sling.

Hmm… someone would also have to stand up on the flat, to move the sling onto it once I am up there. I think it would be difficult to balance and walk off of the pelt myself, it probably will need to be lain down onto the flat…

He did not command Kali’s direct attention. Many lions wanted others to look them in the face while they spoke, but Kikao allowed Kali to wander the sprawled supplies to look for what had survived the calamity. He only hoped that there was some herb or medicine that would ease his pain, so he could possibly manage some sleep, or at least some alleviating rest.

Any luck?

[Kali]

Her eyes shot in all directions, looking carefully underneath the fallen tree's branches for a pot or container that had possibly survived but most were smashed in small pieces. However every once in a while, she'd spot a pot which seemed unbroken and with the aid of a paw to brush away the leaves and twigs which were in the way, she managed to grasp the handle with her teeth and pull it carefully to the outside, placing it beside her. Without checking what it had inside, she continued in search of more possibly unharmed supplies until she was sure she had found all the surviving ones, all the while, she was listening to Kikao carefully although it didn't look like she was very interested with what he had to say because of her busy behavior, yet she was. Jumping off the strong branches, she landed lightly on the dry dusty ground and placed herself in front of the pots and containers she had found. She remembered Barutu had make sure there were handles on all of his supplies so that any creature would be able to carry them in case of emergency. With her right paw, once more, she flicked open the lids of each container with a single black claw and eyed the ingredients of each carefully.

hmm..

After a second, she put the lids back on each and locked them shut. She turned and moved towards her brother, smiling.

Okay. I didn't find much for.. what you'll need for your healing. Only a rare leaf for part of a mixture which you shall drink, and a pinkish numbing power which, when sprinkled on your wounds, should numb them for quite a while. hmm... for about a whole day and night, actually. This should ease any pain you may have and allow you to have a good rest. I usually use that powder if I need to operate. But in this case, there is no need. Those wounds just need healing. And I found some other useful supplies that I may use for other patients, but... not for you.

She paused a moment, simply to take a breath.

I shall still need that search party to help me look for and collect the rest of the ingredients I require.

She let her smile fade for a moment, but not because she was unhappy, only because she was thinking hard about what Kikao had mentioned while she was searching around for surviving supplies. She closed her eyes and imagined what Kikao had describe to her. She soon opened her eyes once more, watching him to estimate his body weight. After what seemed like several minutes, she finally smiled once again and continued...

I think that idea of the pulley could be the right solution. It is a bit risky, but... it's really all we can do for now. We'll just need to gather a group of your strongest lions or lionesses and hope for the best. But firstly, I think the supplies are more important. Because, if worse comes to worst, I can always work on you underneath the shade of the tree. The tree would just be much more comfortable... where you won't be disturbed by any locals in order to get some needed rest.

At that moment, her eyes focused on the distance, and she saw the movement of three shapes; two smaller black figures, and one large brown. They were moving in Kali and Kikao's direction. She stared at them for a moment, and then turned back to Kikao, not worrying about the creatures in the distance.

Is that fine with you - I mean, if I go searching for any supplies before we attempt to pull you up to the main flat of the...of my tree?

[UC]

Kikuli

She gave a small grin as Aenzi informed her that the lioness before them is one they are in search of. She nodded, but showed no sign of embarrassment. She seemed to be prone to the emotion, on their journey to Hidaya she had slipped and almost fallen into a large mud puddle, but she hadn’t even acted the least bit bashful then. She merely thanked Aenzi for checking that she is alright, and continued on, laughing it off a little bit. Her smile broadened as Sanda turned her attention to herself, and at her words she introduced herself.

“Oh ‘Yenzi is not really much of a lion of manners. I am called Kikuli.”

She spoke her words with a chuckle, and a fellow wink to Sanda and Aenzi at her small joke about Aenzi’s personality. Anyone who knew this lion well would know that it is quite strange for him to have forgotten a proper introduction. Kikuli didn’t mind it though, for he seemed to jump right to a mostly friendly talk with this lioness, and she did not feel that it was his responsibility to introduce anyone. She merely introduced herself by name, not completely certain to what regard she should hold herself in. Her future with Aenzi still uncertain.

She gave a small nod at Sanda’s offer to take them deeper into the lands, and followed aside Aenzi as they padded towards the lake.

[Kikao]

Kikao sat content as he watched Kali move back and forth across the lake bed, busily gathering and digging up supplies. Some of the pots were almost more than halfway submerged in the mud, and he only wished he could provide her with some assistance, however he could do little more than remain laying upon the ground. He did not mind that she appeared distracted, for she was, however he knew she was paying enough attention by the constant swivel of her ears. His words had ceased shortly before she was finished collecting the goods, and he merely lay and watched her as she inspected each canister and made her assessments of the supplies.

Well I suppose that is a good thing, that no… drastic actions have to be taken against my injuries. Are you sure about that though? You see my right shoulder… has no visible wound but it hurts more than my left, with this… gaping hole in it…

He offered an apologetic look, feeling unsure of himself for questioning her words, however he did not dwell upon this and continued his words. She would know for sure once she has the time to do a more thorough inspection of his wounds.

Yes, you will still get that search party you need. As I said, Sanda is expected, and we can tell her what we have spoken about. I am sure she would be ecstatic to comply… As for the pulley… perhaps to be safe we will get two skins and double them together? If we set the meat at the borders, it will not go wasted. Some hungry wanderers or scavengers are sure to pass by within a few hours… Hidaya always has wanderers near it’s borders. There aren’t many healthy lions around, although if we get enough of those of us who aren’t wounded, I am sure lifting myself wouldn’t pose a problem. Especially if Ushindi is near… he was here about a week ago when they found me… I’m sure he wouldn’t mind helping us…

Yes, it would be perfectly alright for you to go in search of supplies. You might even want to find Lanya and ask her if she has any, or knows of the whereabouts of certain plants. She is the one who has taken care of me thus far, but her knowledge is limited. She has done her best. Perhaps… if you would offer your old home help should you see fit past helping me… you could allow Lanya to be an apprentice for a short time? If you want, of course. I know sometimes an apprentice could get in the way, although I think she knows when to just sit back and observe. Just… in the case you decide not to make Hidaya your permanent home again… otherwise I would have to send her… or whoever is willing, to an allying pride to learn from their shaman… when it is much better to learn in the lands of later practice. Just a favor, you can give it some thought.

His large head nodded slowly, his mangy mane not quite following the lead set by his face. Just as his father had hated a dirty coat, he loathed his uncouth and uncared for mane, however he is not well enough to give it the proper attention. From time to time, his caring sisters Lanya and Sanda would try to tame it for him, however they would usually have other chores to attend to before long, and his mane wouldn’t quite be completely combed down.

Personally, Kali, I’m quite grateful that you don’t seem to have the attitude towards me… that I remember… Not just because you are helping me either. Our family is torn right now, it lifts a great weight knowing that you at least don’t seem to detest me as much as you did when I was younger…

The moment the words were spoken he scolded himself. Regret washed over him immediately, although he shielded it from sight. He did not want to offend her, before they came from his mouth he had thought they would be a good choice of words, although he soon realized that they may not bring up a pleasant emotion within Kali. He shook his head softly at himself, and quickly attempted to correct himself.

I hope I don’t offend, I meant those words to be harmless… I suppose they sounded different in my mind than they did when spoken… It just … does make me feel better…

He nearly rolled his eyes at himself, his attempted recovery just as separated as the original words. Again he solemnly shook his head, and almost lowered it with shame. Although he soon caught the soft sound of voices off in the distance. His gaze rose, and his eyes moved towards the origin of the voices. A smile overtaking his muzzle as he found a relief for the tension that he had brought upon himself.

Look! Here comes Sanda now… Right on schedule. Sanda!!

[UC]

Aenzi

At Sanda's joke about his lack of introducing Kikuli he grimaced. Suppressed himself that he had forgotten something which came to him so naturally. As Kikuli picks playfully at him though he sighs softly and relaxes. She isn't offended by his over sight. Smiling gratefully at her for a moment he then turned his attentions back to Sanda's questions. As she mentions the storms he once again looks around them. So that was why things appeared different. The storms which currently claimed his lands have already taken there toll in these lands. His voice lowers, holding a pained tone as he speaks of his beloved homelands and pride.

I'm afraid they have and still are for that matter.. Vortex is locked in an unending blizzard. I don't expect the lands to thaw from it until at least spring at the earliest. We lost many brave pride members who refused to leave out of loyalty. There was an extremely hard freeze one night. Not even those in their dens we're safe from it...

Fighting tears that threatened to well in his eyes he pauses for a moment. After several seconds he manages to regain his composure and continue.

Only those of royal decent, the lions gifted with long fur, and a scant few of the others survived. The fallowing morning we all left together planning to return when survival was possible once more. We had planned to stay together, but I'm afraid we lost sight of each other in the blizzard.

Keeping pace with the other two as they walked he gazed about the lands, the further they traveled the less he needed Sanda to inform him of the lands. The devastation was clearly visible. His tone remains soft as he questions her on no doubt a painful topic.

Who has survived Sanda? You know if there's anyway I can help.. any at all.. you need only to ask.

[Sanda]

She had laughed gently at Kikuli's wink and comment. It was nice to know that Aenzi kept company with someone who had a since of humor. Laughter was a necessary medicine for the soul, especially so, she would think, for one as serious as Aenzi. Guiding them towards the lake she listened to Aenzi's troubles. Her expression grew somber as he spoke of the passing of many, but it was encouraging to hear that Chanuka as well as Aenzi had survived. Perhaps their pride, like her own, would still have a chance at recovery....

" I'm sorry to hear of so many passing. We've lost a good many loyal members here as well I'm afraid. I had yet to return when the storms hit, but I've been told they had no warning. The rains and winds hit and in nearly the same breath the lands beneath their paws began to shift and change."

As Aenzi mentions helping however he can she smiles and nods in appreciation...

" I'll keep that in mind. Both of you are of course welcome to stay here as long as you like. Or if you chose to stay elsewhere I'll be sure to inform the few others on boarder patrol of who you are so that they'll not slow your coming and going. "

Her head lifted and her ears perked forward as a voice calls out. A large grin spread across her muzzle as she spots her brothers bright form. But then she sees an image that leaves her thinking, for only a moment, that she has seen a ghost. Squinting to gain a better view she takes in the lionesses colors and her eyes widen. Could it be? It had to be! The first time she calls her sisters name it is stated as a question, she had thought her sister dead in the storm. Though as she now watched the lioness it dawned on her that Kali could very well have left Hidaya after her. Perhaps seeking to further her studies...

" Kali?... Kali!! "

Rushing forward she momentarily forgets her companions. All the properness and diplomatic edge gone from her actions she races across what's left of the distance. Swift golden paws eat up the ground between them before she pounces in cub like fashion upon and unsuspecting Kali. No doubt such joy has not been seen for some time in these lands, but it was shown now with good reason. While She loved Kikao and Lanya dearly, Kali was now the only member of her own littermates she knew to still be alive. And beyond that, Kali had grown into a lighter replica of their mother. Save for lighter undertones, darker eyes and her unique birthmark it was like gazing upon there mother once more. Rolling with laughter off of Kali and to the side she sits up and attempts to regain a bit of her composure...

" I never thought I'd see you again! Where have you been? "

Lifting her gaze to be sure Aenzi and Kikuli have not taken offence to her sudden departure, she then looks back to Kikao. A thought struck her, Kali had absolutely hated their half brothers the last time Sanda had been home.. had things changed?...

She looked from sister to brother, a worried and rather uncomfortable expression suddenly cast over her features.

[UC]

Kikuli

She listened intently in on Sanda and Aenzi’s conversation, yet remained silent during the exchange of words. She could not offer much, for she had not known of either the state of Vortex Mountain, nor that of Hidaya. She hardly even knew of Aenzi himself, although she was here now because the two seemed to simply take a liking to each other from the start, and they had made a promise to each other to become part of the other’s life and see if that tell-tale spark between them is factually love.

Her eyes moved back and forth, between the others to her own paws, to the lands in front of themselves in the direction that they walk. She paid no ill mind to the fellow lioness as she seemed to explode with happiness at the sight of one of the creatures near the pond, a smile crossing her face as she watched Sanda bound in front of them to greet Kali. It was obvious that the two had not seen each other in a long time, and considering what she had listened in on, there would be many reunions like this to come.

She padded silently alongside Aenzi still, and neared the area where the other male lion lay, and Sanda and this Kali were now delving into conversation. She did not come too close, not wanting to intrude on this happy occasion. Her azure gaze moves shortly to Aenzi, and she smiles and gives him a quick lick on the muzzle, before turning towards what is left of the lake’s water. It was too muddy to drink, and she certainly could use a cold swallow right about now, yet she refrained from tasting the murky waters. She merely gazed down into it, and watched the miniature fish life which remained, struggling to remain alive in their minute habitat.

“I am thinking everyone around here feels the same…”

She chided softly to the fish at her paws, and then turned back to the congregation, leaving the waterlife be.

[Kali]

She eyed Kikao carefully and listened. She tried not to feel affected by his words, but she couldn't help it. She honestly didn't like that he kept questioning her actions. She was the Shaman, not him... she had trained hard for this, and not to be questioned all the time. However, on the outside, she smiled warmly and nodded to him, not showing any of her hurt inside.

Well, I will have the chance to examine you completely once you are laying down in my tree.

She listened to his next words, but her eyes did not rest on him. They became a little restless as time crept forward but nothing was done. She was looking around in front of her for any sign for Sanda or any other pride member who could help her out. Al the while, she was still listening, and make short reassuring nods every now and again as she listened. However, when Kikao asked if Lanya could be an apprentice, her eyes quickly jolted back to focus on her brother one more. She listened to what he had to say about her and then paused a moment to think. This moment was longer than she had expected it to be, but finally, her mouth parted and words poured out.

I never even considered having an... apprentice before. But I don't need to consider it to know that a cub would be more appropriate for an apprentice. Lanya... she would be... an adult now, wouldn't she?

Kali sighed heavily. This is not what she would ever expect for an apprentice, but she couldn't decline the offer. Plus, Lanya was a friend of hers... but even so, it was an odd combination - an adult apprentice.

It may take longer than a cub for Lanya to learn what she needs to learn... but as she already knows a little, I accept the challenge.

Before she could say anymore, Kikao had continued once again and she listened to his apology, however before she knew it, Kikao was calling Sanda's name, and Sanda was calling Kali's name... a confussion set in. She moved around and saw a black lioness leaping her way towards them at top speed. A smile automatically spread widely across her muzzle and before long she was rolling around on the dry ground, laughing joyfully with her sister. They both sat up at the same time while Kali stared in amazement at Sanda. She was right - Sanda had grown into the most beautiful lioness she had ever seen. Her smile never faded as they talked.

After mother's death, I had to get away Sanda. I needed to isolate myself from my worries which lay in these lands. So I traveled.. and it wasn't a mistake. I learnt a lot out there that I would have never learnt if I stayed here. but I heard news of Hidaya's disaster so I returned as quickly as I could... although I was still not ready to return.

She spoke through a relieved sigh, unaware of the other two figures moving towards them from the near distance as her total concentration was on her sister.

Oh, I'm so glad you're alright. When I heard about the disaster, I thought of you instantly.