Thread:A Friendly Lion/@comment-27624599-20160514234644/@comment-27624599-20160606015350

Ushidi plunged spiritedly into the water, embracing the fast-flowing current without giving in to it. He loved swimming, and always had- it was either a challenge or a leisurely activity, both of which appealed to him. When he was young, he recalled jumping into the Mkondo River and attempting to swim in the opposite direction of the current for kicks- attracting a number of strange glances from those passing by to drink.

Due to years of practice, Ushidi was able to cut through the water with ease. Clambering onto the opposite shore, he regained his breath as he waited for Darahani to join him. Once she had, he padded briskly into the forest, listening to the warbles of the birds as they flitted through the trees. The grass felt strange under his paws- it was relatively soft and smooth, unlike the brittle, sun-scorched stands that he was accustomed to walking on as he patrolled. The leaves of the acacia trees above him whispered quietly in the faint breeze.

"You were right, Darahani. This place is 'pleasant'. I should come here more, too." He paused, considering. "Maybe I could ask King Hodari if I could add this place to my route."