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• Solstice goes into a tirade about how some other pride member displeased her. You pat her shoulder and let her vent her emotions.
The sun hung high, casting a brilliant, golden light over the pride’s territory. Solstice trotted along the path beside Neptuneus, the king’s steady presence a calming companion. Her bright fur glimmered under the sunlight as a warm breeze tousled her mane. Today, her heart was light, the stress that often clouded her thoughts nowhere to be found. A soft smile played on her lips, and her eyes sparkled with happiness as she glanced around at the beauty of the land they walked through together.
“Isn’t it beautiful today?” Solstice asked with a light chuckle, her voice full of contentment. “The sun feels perfect, and the air is so fresh. I don’t think I’ve ever seen the territory look so peaceful.”
Neptuneus, walking alongside her, smiled warmly. His golden eyes seemed to reflect the brightness of the day itself. “It does look peaceful. It’s good to see you in such high spirits, Solstice.” His tone was kind and appreciative, clearly happy to see her in a more carefree mood. “You bring a lot of light to the pride, and it’s nice to see you embrace the calm of the day.”
Solstice’s smile grew, and she gave a playful flick of her tail. “I think it’s because I’m finally taking a moment to enjoy things. Sometimes, it’s so easy to get lost in the demands of everything, you know? But right now, I just feel… happy.” Her voice held a soft laugh, the joy in her words infectious.
Neptuneus chuckled softly, walking just a little bit closer. “I understand. Sometimes, we all need to pause and appreciate the beauty around us. It’s important to remember the good moments.” He looked out over the sweeping view of the territory, his gaze warm but thoughtful. “The pride has been through a lot, but moments like this remind me that there is still so much to be grateful for.”
Solstice nodded, pausing for a moment to admire the vista. The sun bathed the land in a golden light, the lush green grass swaying gently in the wind, and the distant sound of the ocean filled the air. “I couldn’t agree more. Sometimes, we get so caught up in what we’re doing that we forget to just be.”
The two continued walking, the rhythm of their steps in sync. Solstice felt a deep sense of peace as she walked beside Neptuneus, the king’s presence soothing in its steadiness. She appreciated how much he truly cared about the pride, and how effortlessly he made others feel included.
“I’ve been thinking,” Solstice said after a quiet moment, her tone light and playful. “Maybe we should have a little celebration soon. Something simple, like a gathering at the lake, to just enjoy each other’s company.” She turned to Neptuneus with a hopeful gleam in her eye. “I think everyone could use a chance to unwind and just have fun. What do you think?”
Neptuneus’s smile widened, clearly enjoying the idea. “I think that sounds like a wonderful plan, Solstice. Sometimes, it’s the small moments, like sharing time with each other, that strengthen the bonds of the pride.” His voice was full of warmth, and he gave her a nod of approval. “I think it’s a perfect time for such a gathering.”
Solstice’s eyes brightened at his response, and she gave a playful nudge to his shoulder. “I’m glad you agree! I’ll make sure to help organize it. Maybe even bring some of those fruits I found near the far end of the territory. They’re so sweet this time of year.”
“That sounds delicious,” Neptuneus said with a soft laugh, his expression content as he looked at her. “You always know how to make everyone feel welcome, Solstice. I admire that about you.”
Solstice’s smile softened, a warmth spreading through her chest at his words. She had always enjoyed bringing people together, making them feel like they were part of something bigger than themselves. And with Neptuneus by her side, she felt that much more capable of doing so.
“I’m just glad to have a place where I can do that,” she said, her voice sincere. “The pride feels like family, and I want to make sure everyone knows they belong here.”
They continued walking through the territory, the mood between them light and easy. With the golden sky above and the world stretching out before them, Solstice felt grateful for the simple joy of sharing the moment with Neptuneus. Life wasn’t always perfect, but in these quiet moments, it was as close to perfect as it could get.
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