Queen Saffron, The Herb Collector
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Queen Saffron trots by with a mouthful of strange leaves, barely noticing your presence. A brown pouch bursting full of green swings rhythmically at her side. She seems to be busy once again.
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Queen Saffron, the kind, thoughtful leader of a lion pride, lay in her den blending different herbs used for healing and medicine. She was growing tired, not only from the long hours she spent caring for her pride, but also from the weight of her responsibilities. Her golden fur shimmered in the dim light, each strand coated with a fine layer of dust from the herbs she had been crushing and storing in her pouch. Her hetero eyes flickered open, sensing movement outside the den.
A young lioness, no more than a year old, timidly approached the den. Her fur was a mix of tawny and golden hues, still retaining the dark spots of her youth. She hesitated for a moment, unsure if she should disturb the queen, before mustering up the courage to speak. "Um, Queen Saffron... I, uh, I wanted to thank you."
Queen Saffron raised her head, her green eyes studying the young lioness. She knew who this was; a cub she had taken under her wing not long ago. "It's nothing, my dear," she purred, her voice gentle and reassuring. "I'm only doing what any good leader should."
The young lioness dipped her head in acknowledgement. "But you've done so much more, Your Majesty. You've taught me how to hunt, how to care for myself and others... You've shown me what it truly means to be a lioness." Her golden gaze flickered downward, her tail lashing slightly. "I just wanted to tell you how much I appreciate everything you've done for me."
Despite her eyes always looking half sleepy, Saffron had a look of warmth in them when she spoke to the young lioness. "My dear, you're too kind. I've only done what any leader should. It's my duty to teach and care for my pride. You've proven yourself to be a capable and compassionate lioness, and I have no doubt that you'll make a wonderful addition to our pride as you grow older."
Her tail twitched slightly, and she reached out a paw to rest it on the young lioness's shoulder. "But don't think that just because you've found your place here that I'll stop teaching you. There is still so much to learn about being a leader, not just in terms of strength and hunting, but also in understanding the hearts and minds of those you lead."
The young lioness blushed at the queen's touch. "Thank you, Your Majesty. I'll try my best to learn from you and honor your trust."
Saffron smiled softly. "Good. Now, I must rest. I've a busy day ahead of me. You should return to your duties as well. Remember, my dear, you are never alone. I am always here for you, to guide and support you."
She guided the young lioness out of the den, smiling warmly as the youngster left to her own den to rest. Saffron padded back into her den, and tidied up the herbs she had been working on before she rested. As she lay down, she felt a small pang of exhaustion but also a sense of satisfaction. She had been a good leader to her pride, and it was heartwarming to see the young ones grow up and become capable, compassionate members of the pride.
Sleep came quickly to Saffron, but even in her dreams, she was aware of the weight of her responsibilities. She dreamt of leading her pride through the lush savanna, the warm sun on her fur, and the wind rustling through her mane. She dreamt of teaching them, guiding them, and protecting them from harm. In her dreams, she was always strong and confident, never doubting her ability to lead.
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Mut rep: 2gb + 25gb
RMA x3: 3gb
Opacity Changers x6: 12gb
Fiery Unders app: 2gb
Harvest Moon Marks app: 12gb
Burning Embers app: 3gb
Hyena Unders app: 14gb
Hirola app: 3gb
Marking Remover: 1gb
Total: 72gb