Tiyica

The Snow Maiden
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Hidden within an icy valley, a single source of running water was the livelihood of the pride residing there. A river, flowing fast through the snowy path it had carved for itself. By the water's edge, a lone lioness could be seen, hunched in the snow and seemingly concreting hard on a task known only to herself. It was Tiyica, the Snow Maiden. The well-liked yet humble princess was a descendant of the original Snow Maiden, a title held by the guardian of the local pride. The guardian was responsible for preventing the pride's demise by keeping the river flowing. How they did so was a mystery whose answer was heavily guarded, sacred knowledge passed only from one Snow Maiden to the next. Though young, Tiyica had recently delivered a beautiful cub into the world, whose beauty matched that of her mother. This cub would be the next Snow Maiden, the future of her pride. Suddenly, Tiyica rose, seemingly having finished her task. She hurried back home to the warmth and comfort of those she loved. They were counting on her, and she had a role to fulfill for her pride.