Fire Opal

The trading market, a place anyone can come and trade anything of value, including young cubs or lionesses. Never did I imagine that I would be put up for trade. I sat there, miserable, and watched as my father advertised how his "trade item" had rare fire opal eyes and how they would find none other for a better price. How is one supposed to feel when being sold off to complete strangers? I'm plain looking in everything but my eyes. My eyes are the only thing that stands out about me. And my father was emphasizing the 'fire opal eye' fact.
A lot of lions stopped by to take a look at me, none seemed impressed. Some did seem curious but soon chose to walk away. I heard some say that it was a shame that I was plain looking. My ears drooped and I looked down at the ground in shame as my father continued trying to sell me. The day was almost over when a large shadow fell upon me, I glanced up and saw a massive male lion. And beside him were his two subordinates, one carried a baby crocodile on his back, it was funny looking so I continued to stare at the creature.
The subordinate male noticed my eyes looking at the creature on his back then he smiled at me. I tilted my head at him, a bit curious. He whispered something into the black lion's ear, earning a nod back to whatever he said. Without hesitation he walked over to be and picked me up as if it was normal. My father watched as I was carried away and I watched as the black male laid the payment in my father's paw. I looked away in shame and sadness, the male carrying me noticed this and placed me on the ground.

"I didn't ask to buy you for anything other than I wanted you to have freedom. You are so beautiful and precious, not something that should be sold."

I looked up at him shocked then smiled. I couldn't help it. This male has become my biggest hero. I rubbed against him and purred. This male will be mine, I just had to grow up. That was when I learned his name, Reganent