The river's water feels wonderfully cool as you drink in deep, satisfying gulps, the freshness cleansing the dryness of your throat after the long morning walk. Around you, the air is alive with rich scents—lush vegetation, warm earth, and the subtle perfume of wildflowers. You breathe it all in, letting the pleasant aromas mingle and settle over you like a second skin, stirring a light, cheerful mood within.
With a playful spring in your step, you trot over to a patch of dry dust under a tall tree by the riverbank and drop down with a pleased grunt. You roll over with abandon, kicking up a satisfying cloud as your mane drags against the earth, the roughness delightfully scratching at the nape of your neck. Lost in the bliss of dust bathing, a soft, melodic giggle suddenly catches you off guard.
Frozen mid-roll, you open your eyes, only to find yourself staring up at the dainty, well-groomed paws of a feline, her slender legs poised elegantly as if she’s been watching you for a while.
Your eyes trace her slender legs upward, taking in the graceful, fluid lines of her form until you meet her gaze. Her striking eyes sparkle with laughter, and her mouth is quirked in an amused grin.
Another giggle escapes her. "You look… comfortable," she says, her voice a soft purr that dances in the warm afternoon air.
Rolling over hastily, you rise to your paws, mane now an impressive mess of dust and stray leaves. Your unabashed ogling is met with an even brighter smile as she tilts her head, clearly entertained by your state.
"Mind if I join you?" she asks, the lilt of her voice carrying a playful note, her gaze warm and inviting.
You feel your heart skip a beat. “Not at all,” you manage, inclining your head toward the patch of shade next to you.
She lowers herself into the dust gracefully, her sleek form relaxing as she stretches out, her tail flicking lazily beside her. She tilts her head, studying you with open interest. “You must be our pride’s newest guest,” she says, her voice gentle and curious. “I’ve heard about you.”
“Good things, I hope,” you reply, trying not to sound too eager.
She laughs again, her eyes sparkling. “All good things. My mother and sister have had a lot to say, especially Bahati.” She pauses, giving you a teasing smile. “She says you were quite a gracious patient.”
“Well, Bahati’s skill speaks for itself,” you reply, warmth rising to your face.
The jaglioness’s eyes soften, and she extends her paw. “I’m Safiya, by the way.”
You touch her paw in greeting. “It’s a pleasure, Safiya.”
For a while, the two of you lounge under the tree, exchanging stories and laughter as the river’s gentle current provides a soothing backdrop.
