Naqila

The afternoon sun is beginning to sink into the horizon, casting an amber glow over the savannah, while the king's pride begins to awaken. The hunting hour is approaching, and some of the females are already gathering around their Lead. You stretch and let out a yawn just as Avanor comes up to you, rubbing his forehead against yours in a friendly greeting.

"Walk with me," he says, and you fall in step beside him.

Your paws sink into the cool earth as the day's heat begins to dissipate. He leads you towards the waterfalls, maneuvering between boulders effortlessly.

"I want you to meet someone," he says mysteriously. Your curiosity is piqued as you follow him around a corner and catch sight of her for the first time by the river's edge.

She’s drinking, her velvet coat catching the last of the sun, creating a soft glow around her. Her features are unlike any you've seen before, both defined like a lioness and softer, more elusive. As she looks up, her eyes meet yours and you feel a ripple of surprise.

She is not a lioness. Not purebred at least.

"Her name is Naqila," Avanor introduces quietly and the creature dips her head in recognition, then moves slowly from the water's edge towards you.

"She is a Jaglion, born from a lioness and a jaguar. She is one of our healers." You have no clue what a jaguar is, but before you can say so, Avanor continues, his gaze on the Jaglioness soft. "She takes care of our wounded and keeps us healthy."

Naqila’s eyes, striking in their intensity, never leave yours. Despite her smaller size and mixed heritage, there's an air of sophistication about her that commands respect. The curiosity within you intensifies, but you remain silent, waiting for her to approach.

Finally, Naqila pauses in front of you, gold eyes holding your own. She is even more beautiful up close. Her tail flicks back and forth with confidence.

"You must be our guest," she purrs, finally stepping away and sitting by Avanor's side. "I've heard much about you."

The king looks pleased, a hint of pride in his eyes. He seems to take an immense amount of pleasure in the surprise you're experiencing.

"Don't worry," she says, her voice soothing and soft, "I won't bite."

A playful smile crosses her face, and despite the unfamiliarity of the situation, you can't help smiling back.

"Naqila was born on our land, some weeks after I had helped a group of jaguars. Her father is living among his kin, you're likely to come across him during your stay in these lands."

“And my daughters as well,” she adds, a softness entering her eyes as she speaks of her offspring.

"Their names are Bahati and Safiya," she tells you, "They are out exploring now, but perhaps you will meet them later."

You nod, appreciating the information. So there's more of them hidden within the heart of this pride? Interesting.
Avanor rises then, signaling an end to the introduction. Naqila stands as well, her body stretching languidly before turning back towards the river.

"Until later!"

For a moment, you both just stand there, looking at the spot where Naqila had disappeared.

"Come." Avanor finally says, his voice rumbling deep in his chest.