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As the cubs grew, so did their lessons. Adin and Tilly both had to take on more in their lessons every day. They had grown to be a challenge for the girls and Tilly had to learn to keep her mind focused. Tillys curiosity helped her prevail in her lessons, but Adin was the eager one, and could take in more each lesson. Adin would also rather be learning over playing, where as Tilly would much rather play. Tilly was more respectful towards others, she knew how to be quiet when needed be. Tilly had a life outside of lessons, Adin didnt have a life outside of Jordan. Adin had grown out of her shy and easily startled phase. She had become rather social because Jordan being the young prince had to also be social. Adin could name almost every lion in the holt, and knew many on a personal level. She was also the first choice when it came to babysit cubs, even though she was still young herself, she knew the importance and how to care for a newborn. Adin was to be an assistant to the queen, Tilly, when it was time. All these characteristics that Adin has been presenting were worth alot to Bob and the Holt. Especially since Tilly probably could not do everything on her own.
Adin, like Tilly had become stronger, and more agile. Unlike Tilly however, Adin was growing faster. Adin took after her father when it came to size. Adin outranked Tilly in the hunting party because of that. Adin and Tilly were both thought the benefits of a vegetarian/bug eating diet, and they were both off of meat. But there were still many lions in the holt who ate meat, and some traditional meals that required meat. Hunting was still needed, and they actively took part. Tilly was future queen after all, and she had to be able to support others and prove her worth. Adin and Jordan would spend all their time together, the holt had teasingly called them a set. If one was ever without the other, a lion would often tease by shouting "Oh no! the sets incomplete!" Tilly of course found it wonderful her mate and best friend were so close.
A bright and sunny day opened up, bringing idea weather for a lesson of berries and meat being dried in the sun for storage. Bob had Tilly, Jordan, and Adin all join in this lesson. Bob took them all out deep into the forest, on their way, lions walked by them with familiars and bags of items on their backs. Adin smiled "So does every lion get a familiar?" Jordan shook his head "Generally one per every den. Monkeys, meercats, snakes, and other animals are very helpful to have apart of a family." Adin nodded "They help with work we cant do ourselves, including giving us our earrings!" Jordan nodded. Bob stopped, smiling as Adin and Tilly let out a soft gasp. A hole in the forest, a circle lacking trees showed an area of lions and familiars busily hustling around with berries and meat.
Bob smiled "Here we are." Tilly nodded "I never knew what it was like here... this is AMAZING!" She eagerly looked around, then shouted "Why didnt you tell me this was so amazing!" Two lions chuckled and walked over to Tilly. Bob smiled, "Good morning Shelly... and Angel." A medium sized young adult lioness, Shelly, with a medium shade coat of brown nodded towards Bob before hugging Tilly. Angel, a large young adult male, with blue eyes and a golden coat just smiled at Bob then looked at Tilly "Well we tried! We told you, you should come work with us for a day!" Tilly laughed "But I dont want to work!" Adin and Jordan laughed, nudging each other playfully, they knew what Bob was planning. Bob sat down "Is that so Tilly?" Tillys ears dropped, she knew what was to come. "I mean I LOVE to work! But learning is my passion!" Angel and Shelly laughed with Jordan and Adin. Bob winked "Nice try, but today you get to have a paws on experience. Shelly will you show Tilly how the Meat works. Angel, please take Jordan and Adin to the berries." Angel playfully bowed "Of course m'lord."
Bob eagerly watched over the young lions and their lessons. Angel seemed almost hateful towards Jordan. Adin and Jordan apparently had a crush on each other, and Angel seemed resentful for it. "And then we pack the berries up and rush them back to the Holt for storage." Jordan chuckles "Can I demonstrate with Adin? Shes so small I could easily carry her." Angel rolls his eyes, "You could try carrying me if you want to carry someone, try giving a worker a break." Jordan laughed "Your much bigger than me, how could I ever carry you?" Angel scoffed "Exactly what I would expect from you. I could carry Bob if I wanted to. Your supposed to be just as strong as everyone else, in fact stronger to be the Holt leader. Instead your a cushy lazy lion who flirts with his mates best friend." Jordan roars "You dare speak to me like that?" Silence befalls the area. Angel steps up, showing his size in a challenging pose "Why would he have picked you for his heir?" Bob stepped in "Come on boys, lets not-" a meercat ran past the lions feet and straight to Bobs. "Chief you have a visitor, and she brings word of your sister." Bob smiles "Ah, thats wonderful news! Come Tilly, Jordan, Adin. Lets head back home and hear the news!" He bowed to the meercat, as she bowed back before running off to continue her duties.
Angel growled, "But kingy, this was just getting to be fun!" Jordan glared at Angel, Adin nudged Jordan "Lets not make your father wait Jordan. Come on." Jordan hurried along to his fathers side, eager to hear news of his Aunt. Adin turned toward Angel, at first angry, she caught sight of his blue eyes as he looked at her with not anger, but a disappointing look. Adin had originally meant to scorn him, but she just noticed that Angel was the only lion here with bright blue eyes. It caught her off guard, Angel smiled "Can I help you?" Adin blinked and groaned angerly "Cant you just leave Jordan alone! Your Tillys best friend, you should be kind to her future mate!" Angel laughed as Adin turned her back and began walking away "And shouldnt you respect your best friend and not flirt with her mate?" Adin didnt respond, she just couldnt.
As they returned to the holt, they entered into a odd room made of thick vines, light peeked in through the vines making it look rather pretty inside. It was the meeting room. Inside a lioness, full grown around Bobs age was sitting waiting patiently. She was a soft brown, a lighter lioness, but very big. She looked sad, her ears tucked back, she looked up at Bob entering the room, a big smile on his face. "Alice! Long time no see!" Bob eagerly ran to hug her, "You look as stunning as I remember!" Alice blushed, hugging tightly back "Your to kind Bobby." Adin and Jordan smiled looking at each other, they knew Bob and Alice apparently had history, more than friends perhaps. Bob smiled and sat down in front of Alice. "This is Jordan, all grown up! His future mate Tilly, and her best friend Adin! What news do you bring Alice?" Tilly broke in "Pleasure to meet you! I must go however for now. I look forward to seeing you around Alice!" As Tilly walked by Bob to leave he whispered "Why are you leaving?" Tilly sighed "I need to go the the bathroom!" Bob nodded as she took off.
Alice smiled at the young lions before turning towards Bob with a frown "As you know I left the holt with your sister long ago. We had gone off to find lives of our own, and maybe one day return with mates and live happily. We had a fight, many months ago... and we parted ways..." Tears began to form in her eyes "Bobby... She is gone..." Bob looked at her, concern on his face, and almost anger in his tone "What do you mean gone?!" Alice sniffled, tears pouring down her face "She passed away." Bob face contorted, as tears began dripping down his cheeks, he took a heavy, broken breathe "A-are you sure?" Anger again teased his tongue "But she was so young! How did she, what would have taken her life!" Alice tried to control her weak voice "She was killed by Hyenas... Im so sorry..." She hugged him, trying to comfort him, and he hugged her back. He broke off the hug suddenly "Come, lets talk about this further in my chambers." Jordan watched them walk away, shock covered his face.
Adin was shocked, never before had she seen Bob angry, especially she had never seen him cry. She turned toward Jordan, also finding tears had overcome his face. Jordans focus on his father and Alice broke once they turned a corner and were out of his sight. He suddenly felt Adins gaze upon him, he tried to hide his face by turning away. Jordan did not want Adin to see him cry, or even look sad. Adin knew Jordan felt he had to always be strong, but this is one of those times where Jordan needed to feel weak. She nuzzled him into a hug. A gasp of tears escaped Jordans lips, and he hugged her back, tightly. He tried to make it look as if he was comforting her, but anyone could see he was the one in need of the hug. Adin cried with Jordan for what felt like a long while. Adin unlocked their brace and tried to smile up at Jordan. Adin licked Jordans eyes, whiping away his tears. Jordan smiled at the affectionate gesture, and suddenly a look of love and passion came over his face. A look Adin had so longed for, but feared.
Unbeknownst to the two, Angel had came in, but he was out of their view just entering the area to hear of news. He did care for Alice as well, after all she was his mother, even if she had left him here as a cub when she left the holt. Since his father died, Bob had promised to watch over her cub while she was away. He was older than Jordan, but only by a month. He was much larger however, and he was raised to be a guard of the holt. Listening and watching was part of what he was trained to do, so instead of making himself known to the two lions, he sat back to wait for his opening. Adin turned away from Jordan, she knew their love could not be. It would be wrong of her, for the Holt, and wrong to hurt Tilly. Jordan lovingly raised his paw to Adins chin. Having her turn to face him and his gaze upon her. For a brief moment, their eyes had locked. Adin knew that a kiss would be inevitable unless she made a gesture to stop it. Adin stuttered "I-im s-sorry about your aunt..." Jordan nodded, leaning in close to Adins lips, his gaze never broke and his eyes seemed to find Adins no matter where she looked. "Adin, it means the world to me that you are here for me, even if my mate is not." Adins eyes begun to water, this time however for the pain of having to do what must be done. Adin squeaked "Your my friend, of course I will be there for you." Adin closed her eyes, trying not to let Jordan look into her eyes. Instead of backing away, Jordan kissed her. Adins eyes suddenly opened, she gasped and broke their kiss. Angel also gasped, he couldnt believe it. Jordan has indeed broke a vow to his father. Proof that he is unfit to be an Chief.
Jordans smile dropped, suddenly concerned. Jordan looked hurt, and it killed Adin to see him as such. "A-adin I thought you..." Adin nodded "I do... I love you Jordan, you are my first love and you will forever remain as such." Adins tear began to flow, she tried to put on a smile. Jordan was weak, she needed to be strong for the both of them. Jordan smiled, and leaned in again to try and kiss her. Hopeful this time she would kiss him back. Adin leaned back, Jordan became confused, almost angry. Out of all things, the one thing Bob has always made clear is his disapproval of showing anger in public areas. Adins ears swooned back, seeing her love again distressed by her. Jordan squinted his eyes "If you love me, then why wont you kiss me?" Adins eyes closed hard, trying to push her tears away. "Your not mine to kiss Jordan... you never will be." Jordan let out a growl "The one who I 'belong to' is not here for me, not here to comfort me in my time of need, not here for me to talk to, or cry to, or even discuss anything personal. Its all a duty to her! Besides she is always off playing with her desires mate!" Adins ears perked, she watched Jordan pace in his rant. Adin curiously added "Angel?" Angels ears perked at the mention of his name, he lowered to the ground, trying to stay hidden.
Jordan nodded, he stopped pacing, and looked at Adin, his ears fell back and sadness had returned to his face. "She has him... why cant I have you?" Adins mouth fell open with disgust, she opened her mouth wider almost as if to yell. She then let out a gruff growl, trying to control herself. "I will not be your concubine!" she looked him over viciously, she reached her paw out to push Jordan further away from her. Angel couldnt help but smile, a little thing like Adin trying to push a large lion like Jordan away from her... and Jordan letting her. Jordans faced showed nothing but disbelief "I never asked such a thing of you!" Adin turned her back and began to stomp away "Didnt you?!" Jordan looked down, "It came out wrong! I didnt mean it like that Adin!" Adin shook her head "I could care less what other lions do, I would never allowed myself to be in that way with a lion who already has a mate!" She left the room. Jordan began to just stare at the floor, thinking about what he had said that hurt her so.
Angel had walked out, showing himself to Jordan, "Ive never touched Tilly." Jordan jolted up, looking at the male. Feeling intimidated by Angels size, he assumed a position that would be taken as a challenge by most males. "Haven't you?!" Jordan exclaimed as he looked Angel over. "Ive seen you two together, how she acts with you, the loving gestures she doesnt hide. She has eyes for you Angel!" Angel let out a laugh of sarcasm "Yes, she has the eyes of a butterfly! Everyone and everything is looked upon and is as precious to her as a flower! I hate to inform you, but I dont think Tilly could ever not love anyone! And you know the worst part? She loves you unconditionally! Even if its obvious you want Adin as a mate. She loves you and forgives you." Jordan thought about it, and its true... Tilly loves everyone. "I dont approve of you spending so much time with my mate!" Angel rolled his eyes, "I see, so I cant spend time with someone I would never kiss?" before Jordan could defend himself Angel continued "And yet you claim to love you mate, and not have feeling for her friend, even if I catch you allowing yourself to kiss her, and telling her you want to mate with her?" Jordan let out a roar, and pounced into Angel. Jordan still smaller than angel could not push him over.
Angel, unfazed pushed Jordan away, embarrassed Jordan shouted "Get out of my sight!" Jordan tried to stand firm, and look threatening to Angel. Angel couldnt help but let out another laugh "Cute little kitty you be, but I wonder what Tilly would actually do if I told her of your little romance? Dont worry, unlike you I actually do care about her. I wouldnt hurt her by telling her this." Jordan looked at the ground, feeling guilty. Jordan walked off in the direction of his den. Angel nodded, satisfied with Jordan understanding the wrong he had just committed. Angel decided to go have a talk with Chief Bob, he said he wouldnt tell Tilly, not Bob.

PART 3
Angel sat outside of Bobs den, waiting for Alice to be escorted to a guest den. After Alice left, he walked in, and bowed to Bob... not making a snide remark. This couldnt help but strike Bob as curious, and worried. "Yes Angel?" Angel walked up to Bob "Jordan and Adin should be kept separate in their lessons from now on. They should also not allowed to spend time alone together." Bob laughed "And why not?". Angel smiled at Bobs disproving scoff "Your 'son' had tried to kiss Adin, and proposed her to be his lover." Suddenly Angel had Bobs full attention, then he looked at the ground, almost lost on how to respond. "A-and what if I said I did not believe you Angelous?" The fear in his voice was obvious, that he knew that this could happen.
Angel flicked his tail "Look I know I am a reminder of a past fault, I get it. But it is not my fault that you chose to ignore the obvious fact that I am your son, your last blood son. But it is not my fault that you chose Jordan to be your heir, and that he makes the same mistakes that you did. He is spoiled, and always has been. It must be a real change for him not getting what he wants. And why you would have chose him over-" Angels closed his eyes, swallowing back tears "Look, I love you, I worship you, and I had always loved you like the father you refuse to be. I have not, nor will I ever lie to you. But if you dont trust me, you can always ask Adin. She will also not tell a lie." Bob nodded, knowing that was all true. "You may leave me Angel, perhaps you could be of better use else where, like comforting a friend?"
Angel nodded, Bob knew Angel would go an try to comfort Adin. He couldnt stand to watch a lioness cry. As he walked into Adins den she happily shouted "Knock knock!" Adin turned away, she knew it was Angel, and she didnt want anyone seeing her cry. Embarrassed, she tried to stop crying "I-is it important?" Angel looked her over, knowing that she was trying very hard to be noble and not cry. He couldnt help but feel guilty that Adin had to pay for Jordans love crimes. "Yes." He walked in, noticing Adin was trying to keep her face hidden from him. Adin let out a headed sigh, and looked up at Angel. Her fur wet from the tears she had shed and a fake smile. "Ahem," Aden tried to sound like her normal self. "What is is Angel?" Angel looked her over, his bright eyes catching hers for an instant. Those blue eyes of his still captivated her. Angel smiled a large smile "Still trying to be strong enough for the both of you eh?" it broke Adin, she began to cry violently. Angel wrapped his arms around her to comfort her, she accepted his comfort. Angel also began to cry, feeling her pain.
Suddenly Tilly entered the room, she was happily prancing as usual. She suddenly stopped, dead in her tracts. She saw her two friend crying, and couldnt help crying as well, almost as hard as Adin. She ran over to hug her two friends. After a few minutes, the crying had stopped, and Adin let out a laugh as the hug broke. "Why are you crying Til?" Angel also let out a laugh. Tilly joined in and laughed as well "Because you were!" the laughing continued for a minute or two. Tilly rubbed her eyes "Why were you crying?" Adin blinked, remembering everything that had happened. "I had to let someone go, though I didnt want to, I had to." She smiled up at Tilly, as Tilly caught her off guard with a wink "Jordans not worth your tears anyways!" Adin was lost in total shock. Angel began laughing at their faces. Tilly giggled "Everyone knew this was bound to happen. You two thought you were so secret! Im not dull," Adin almost spoke up before Tilly chimed back in "Not saying you thought I was! Im just oddly happy all of the time. In fact sometimes, I would play dumb and try to get Bob to break the engagement." Adin hugged Tilly "Im so sorry Tilly!" Tilly shrugged "I dont care if im his mate, or not. I do however care if my friends are happy or not. You did the right thing Adin."
Adin smiled happily at her friend, then nodded at Angel. "Thank you Angel for comforting me." Angel smiled, then sighed "Well, it wasnt an easy task that just any lion could take on! It required strength, brains, and of course-Ugh" Tilly elbowed him, Angel gave her a dirty look "And good looks..." Adin and Tilly laughed. "Is he always this charming Tilly?" Adin looked over at Angel, Tilly nodded "Yea, I love to keep him as company. Hes like the court Jester." Angel laughed "And proud of it!" Adin laid down smiling up at her friends "So Angel whats up with you and Jordan?" Angels smile dropped "Well, My mother is Alice... and my father is Bob." Tilly and Adins eyes widened. Angel continued "Alice was Bobs first love interest. But he was engaged. He was engaged to a cub who wouldnt be born for a while. He was engaged to the neighboring prides royal families first daughter. While in wait, he and my mother had became very close... And they had eventually considered each other mates. The night before Bob was going to announce a broken engagement, the neighboring prides queen came to us. Her mate had died, and she wanted to marry Bob to unite their pride, with our Holt. That away we could have better hunting land for more exotic plants and animals." Tilly shook her head "He didnt accept did he?"
Angel shook his head "He had to, or he would be in war with their pride. Bob and Alice soon found out of their accident. I was conceived, and there was nothing they could do about it, he had been married, we do not divorce. If you were to divorce, you are expelled from the Holt. My mother was looked down upon by most of the Holt for the fact she was pregnant without a mate. Most of the Holt however knew who the father was, or assumed it was Bob. The queen, now chiefess, hated my mother. So my mother decided after I was mostly weened off, she would leave with Bob sister and leave me here with Bob. If Bob and the queen Prue didnt have a cub, I would be their heir, but Prue would do anything not to have me be the next Chief. Thats when Bob adopted Jordan as his son. I was raised to be his guard. so here I am... I have no family from my mothers side, my own father wont claim me so nor will his family, all I have is my friends." Angel tried to smile up at the two girls. "Aw why even smile," Angel laid down, putting his head between his paws "No point in trying to hide that the truth makes me all weepy." Adin couldnt help but smile, a sad smile. She went over and nudged his cheek before laying down beside him. "Let me tell you my past..." The three of them continued talking into the night. Adin had begun to realize just how dependent she had become on Jordan, how all his friends were her friends, and how everything she did was all around Jordans life.
Bob decided to go to Jordans den. He knew the troubles that would come from the romance Adin and Jordan could have. He looked in, to see Jordan mumbling to himself, pacing the room. Bob couldnt help but smile, Jordan was just like him. "I didnt mean it like that, I mean how could she take it like that! Im so stupid, It came out wrong..." Bob sat down, a smile across his face "Ah-hem." Jordan stopped in his tracks and looked over at his father. He sat down "D-dad... Hi." Bob let out a sigh, looking Jordan over. Jordans ears lowered, his dad knew. "Dad I can explain, I-" Bob shook his head "You two havent... havent mated have you?" Jordan smiled "No dad we havent..." Bob nodded "Good." Silence filled the room. Jordan spoke up "Where do we go from here?" He looked up at Bob, hoping for words of encouragement and maybe even a broken engagement. Bob sighed again "Get to know Tilly. I want you to spend all your free time with her, and also all your non free time. Your due for a wedding in two months." Jordan nodded sadly looking at the ground. Bob smiled "And after a month if you do not bond with her, or share a spark... I will do something that has never been done before." Jordan looked up at his dad, at first worried... Until he saw his dads smile. He then smiled himself. Bob nodded "I will break your engagement, Tilly and Adin would both be wonderful wives to the cheif."
Jordan almost tackled his father, giving him a big hug. "Woh, you still have all month to try and fall in love with Tilly, and dont forget to apologize to Adin... In the morning though." Jordan was almost at his door "The morning, right... Thank you dad!" Bob returned to his Den, Alice waiting for him. "Well Bob... I dont know about you, but I missed you." Bob smiled "Let me show you how much I missed you Alice." Morning came, and Jordan eagerly ran down to Adins den, to tell her the news... and of course say sorry. Adin, Tilly, and Angel had lost track of the night. They were sharing all their deep dark secrets, their dreams, wishes. Adin was shocked to find that Tilly and Angel had no love interest in each other in the least. Adin had been caught several times staring at Jordans blue eyes, she even asked why he had them. Angel told her he had Alices fathers eyes, something both Adin and Angel had in common... besides their names starting with A's.
Jordan had walked into Adins den, only to find Angel, Adin, and Tilly all sleeping on the same bed of leaves. He has expected to see Adin alone, and sad. Only to find her with his future mate and the lion he hated the most. Angel must have told Tilly what happened and they all came and talked it out. But still, Angel told Tilly, he broke his promise. Jordan let out a roar to awaken the three sleeping lions with a jolt "Your a liar Angel!" Jordan was furious, and loud for such early hours. Angel laughed "What are you talking about Jordan?" they all three stretched. Jordan looked disgusted "You lied to me and told me you wouldnt tell Tilly!" Tilly jumped in, not one to normally fight "You honestly think so low of him? And me?" Jordan looked confused "You do! You think im stupid! You believe I cant figure things out on my own? Its obvious Jordan, Its obvious to the entire Holt that you love Adin! While your in love with my best friend, you spread rumors of me and Angel to make yourself feel better, and maybe even get Bob to break our engagement! Well thats fine with me! I dont want to marry you!" Tilly begun to cry, this time for herself. Something truly saddening, because Tilly never cries for herself. "Grow up Jordan, wise up. If you ever hope to rule this, this Holt, you need to grow a brain!" Tilly ran out of the room, leaving the three lions in an awkward silence.
Adin walked up to Jordan, not angry... "Go apologize to your mate Jordan." Her tail flicked behind her, she was obviously disappointed with him as was he with himself. Jordan tried not to let his voice crack "Thats what I came to talk about, my dad said we could be together! that in a month he would break-" Adins ears lowered, her tail stopped moving. Jordan was looking for her reaction "He will break the engagement Adin... We can be married!" Adin didnt know what to say, she looked towards Angel, he looked worried, hurt even. Adin looked back at Jordan. Angel had begun to see what Jordan loved about Adin. He was also in love with her. Something he had never done with any lion before. Jordan tried to smile, he didnt understand why she wasnt as excited as he was. "Just one month Adin, then we can prepare for our wedding! I just have to spend the next month with Tilly, to try and get a spark. But im in love with you, and I could never like her like I do you, even though he wants me to try!" Jordans eyes were almost glowing with joy, yet Adins looked almost sad.
Adin closed her eyes and looked at the ground. "No, I will not marry you Jordan." Jordan looked her over, lost in disbelief. "I dont want to see you, I dont want you thinking of me, I want you to give Tilly a proper chance, she deserved better than this. More than this." Jordan shook his head "Adin, she will forgive you! We can be together! Please Adin!" Tears were in his eyes, Adin kept her eyes closed, if she looked into his eyes, she would give into her passions. His cracking voice made her want to comfort him, but she knew that Tilly deserved the throne, her birth right. "Go to her Jordan, tell her your sorry. Give her your heart." Adin was crying. Jordan just stood there, hurt, light headed. Adin let out a heavy sigh, then opened her eyes to look up at him, she couldnt help it. She kissed him, and he kissed her back. Angel felt a pink in his heart, watching them embrace. Angel coudlnt look away, no matter how much he wanted to. Again, it was Adin that ended it. She broke their kiss, and smiled, looking lovingly at Jordan. Jordan smiled back, lovingly looking into her eyes. Adin nodded, a sigh of relief escaped her lips. "And that is the last of my love you will ever have Jordan. Now go to her." Adin pushed Jordan, holding her tears back. "Jordan you better leave here and go comfort her, or I swear ill.... Ill push you all the way there myself!" Jordan left Adins den, confused, unsure what had just happened. All he knew was Adin had a stronger heart than he, and she refused to love him anymore.
PART 4
Angel walked up beside Adin, watching Jordan go. Even Angel was not sure of what just happened. Adin turned and hugged Jordan, her hug was unexpected, and catching Angel off guard was a rare occurrence. Adins weight had knocked Angel over, she fell on top of him. They both laughed. A good way to break the tension "Im sorry Angel!" Adin tried to get off of him without stepping on him or hurting him in any way. Angel looked at Adin, his eyes glowing happily. "Do you really no longer love Jordan?" Adin shook her head "I will always love him." Angels eyes turned almost sad, he tried to keep his smile, and Adin knew Angel had hoped for something else. "But, that doesnt mean my heart belongs to him." Angel licked her cheek, Adins eyes whent wide. Angel saw shock in her eyes "I-im sorry Adin Im so insensitive!" Adin smiled, trying to stand to get off of him, she could almost reach the ground "Angel, its fine... You are a sweet lion, and your a very handsome-" She slipped on his rib, tickling Angel, he let out a laugh. It caused Adin to slip, falling, her mouth to his. Adin closed her eyes, kissing Angel, and he of course kissed her back.
Jordan walked into Tillys room, he looked around sighing. "You know, I am glad my dad gave you and Adin your own rooms. Even though its kinda empty here since Bruke left." Tilly didnt look at him, she faced the wall. "Yea well, you know my dad. He cant handle staying in one place for very long... And since im the future mate to the chief to be, I get my own room... Leaving Adin our old room." Tilly felt a sickness in her stomach. "What dont you love about me?" She stood and faced Jordan. "You never gave me a chance, its like since we were engaged, you were turned off from me. Like since you couldnt choose me, I wasnt a prize to be had." Jordan had never known Tilly to be serious, in fact he never really thought much about Tilly and her personal feelings. "I-I dont know Til... Ive always been obedient to my father... I guess this was some form of rebellion?" Tilly shook her head at him "What a time to do a rebellion. You hurt so many others, instead of just your father. How selfish are you Jordan?" Jordan was taken by surprise, he had never really thought this through. Who would have suspected Tilly of figuring it out and see it like that. Not Jordan. "I could care less if you and Adin were together, if your the kind of lion that I have seen you be as of late... I dont want to be your mate. I dont want you in my life, nor in Adins. But she loves you, and I am her friend... so I will support her."
Jordan sat down "Tilly, I am so sorry. I didnt realize I hurt you like this... I will be spending the next month with you, and by the end... I hope you see me as a better lion." Tilly let out a sarcastic laugh "Yes, and then you can marry Adin with my approval. Clear your coincidence eh?" Jordan nodded "Maybe, or maybe theres a chance that we would fall in love." Tillys ears perked up, shocked. "No, you dont want to spend time with me... Bob is making you." Jordan walked up to her with a smile "No, I want to. I promise I will never underestimates you again. Adin wants us to try and work this out, Adin wants us to be together... so Im willing to try. Who knows how this will all turn out." Tillys ears lowered "I dont want this all to be for Adin Jordan, I want this to be for us." Jordan nodded, agreeing with her. Jordan turned to walk away, "See you tomorrow Tilly!" Tilly smiled, "Bye bye!" Jordan couldnt help but laugh. That was the Tilly he knew and hopefully will come to love.
The next day, Angel decided he needed to go talk with his blood parents. It was about time he told them how much he hated his life and blamed them for it. Angel walked into Bobs den, and of course found him laughing with Alice. Alice looked up seeing Angel "Oh Angel hunny, come on in!" Angel was already in the room, he was agitated that she felt that her invitation was the only thing allowing him in. Angel sat, an angry look on his face. Bob smiled up at Angel "Whats wrong Angelous?" Angels face contorted into a look of disbelief and anger. "Whats wrong? You two are sitting here like mates, and I your blood cub walks in here obviously angry at the both of you for deserting me as a cub, and you ask whats wrong?!" Alices smile dropped right off her face. Bob just had a look of, yep, pretty much. Alice sighed "I knew you would come ask these questions... You see I left because-" Angel cut in "Because the holt thought you as dirty, you were a young mother in love with the holt leader, blagh blagh, his wife hated you, yada yada, you left me in Bobs care. I know the story, ive heard it every time I ever asked."
Alice smiled "Then why are you upset?" Angel again looked completely in disbelief. "You deserted your son, with no family, into the hands of a man who only cared about raising a spoiled brat who wasnt even his blood! Hello?" Alice shook her head "You look healthy, well raised. From your snide comments you apparently love your father, and he loves you. I dont see what I did wrong." Angel took a slow breathe "Why didnt you take me with you?" Alice shrugged her shoulders "Its to dangerous for a cub to go out. I made the obviously right choice." Angel growled "What kind of a mother are you?" Alice smiled "Apparently a responsible one with a son who apparently hates her for trying to give him the best life she could." Bob nodded "I may not have raised you as my son, but you were raised here in the Holt. You complain about not having a family, but as everyone can agree... Everyone here claims each other as family." Angel shook his head "I felt so alone, and rejected here... Even my own father wouldnt have me, and my mother left me behind. You know how badly I got teased? By Jordan, by everyone?" Alice shook her head "Im sorry I wasnt here to stop that, but I had to-" Angel cut in "Get away because everyone was mean to you and teased you? And spread rumors about you? What do you think HAPPENED TO ME!" His voice cracked.
Alice shook her head "I just thought this would be the best life I could give you..." Angel turned, ready to leave. "The only good thing in my life right now, is because I had two people in this world who cared for me while the rest of the world rejected me. Otherwise I would be dead, I almost killed myself when I was young because of the hell you two put me through." Alices eyes got tears, she walked over to stand face to face with Angel "Do you need to hear it again? Im sorry for leaving you here. This was the only option YOU had to live. Im worry lions can be cruel, but thats why you got so strong. You took it... You handled it... Look at you, your strong, brilliant, a son Bob and I couldnt have never made on our own. If you hate how Jordan acts so much, be thankful your father didnt spoil you! Be thankful your so called sluty mother wasnt here, or else you would have had it even worse. Sometimes I wish I had the strength to kill myself! Is this what you want to hear?"
Angel shook his head, and hugged her "Yes." Alice backed off, shocked that he said that. "Yes, I wish I was loved more than Jordan, given the cushy life. I wish I could be lazy like him. Yes I wish my slut of a mother would have stayed to love me. No I would never want you to take your own life, no I would never wish my life upon another lion, no I will never call you my mother." Alice was shocked "I never asked for you to call me mom..." Angel laughed "Didnt you? I can see it in your eyes. You long for nothing more than to have a perfect life now that your back. So you can brag about your wonderful strong handsome son who is best friends with the queen to be. I can see how you want things, but you may have Bob, but you will never have me." Angel left the room. Alice shook her head "I just want to love you... and for you to love me..." Bob walked over to comfort her "Hes strong, even to strong for us." Alice nodded. "I wish he could be weak for us."
Jordan and Tilly had begun to hang out on a daily basis, as did Adin and Angel. Shelly hadnt been hanging around them as of late, because Shelly was engaged. She was spending most of her time with her mate Bronx and his family. Tilly and Angel didnt mind of course, she was happy and in love. They understood how she felt. Angel had begun to court Adin, and Jordan courted Tilly. Adin still did have feelings for Jordan, and that caused plenty of tension between Angel and Jordan. Tilly and Adin could not trust the two of them alone together for very long. things being as they were, it helped put Bob at ease. The holt had never broken and engagement before, and Bob was not anxious to be the first to do so.
Weeks had passed, and Jordan and Angel were getting along. Angel no longer felt the need to be jealous of Jordan, and Jordan no longer felt the need to well... be the general ass he had been in the past. All seemed at well in the holt. Tilly would still however have to decide if she wanted to break the engagement. Bob decided he needed to talk with the two young males before any more decisions were made. He had Jordan and Angel summoned to his den. As the two boys arrived, Bob greeted them with a smile and a hug. "Welcome my boys!" Bob warmly greeted them. Angel felt uncomfortable, Bob must want something from him because he generally doesnt act very kindly to Angel. Bob walked over to his nest of leaves and sat down "Come sit!" Bob called inviting them for a chat. Jordan obeyed, while Angel bowed "Yes your highness!" He just couldnt resist. Jordan had begun to find Angels antics amusing, in fact they could almost call one another friends. Bob also seemed to smile, this worried Angel further.
"So I see you and Tilly seem to be almost a pair for marriage." Bob casually started the conversation. Jordan nodded "Yes, Tilly is a lovely girl." Alice walked in with a giggle "A lovely girl? So have you yet to fallen in love with her, and whisked her away for a happily every after?" Now Angel knows why Bob was being so kind... is he planning on marrying Alice, and she wants his blessing? Who knows, but its something he wont like. Jordan looked down at the ground "I dont know.... I think I do." Bob smiled "Does she love you?" Jordan shrugged "I dont know, sometimes she loves me... other times I think she wants to beat me to a pulp." Bob laughed "I cant understand your love for her, she is just like Alice was when she was young-" Angel cut in, stern and unmoving "Tilly is nothing like Alice. she is a far better lioness than Alice could ever be." Jordan was shocked, Alice was his mother afterall.
Alice sighed, snuggling to Bob for comfort. Bob shook his head "You dont have to like your mother, but you will show her respect." Angel laughed "Respect is earned. She has to prove she is worth it." Alice growled "I am you mother, the creature that brought you into this world! You will show me some respect on that note. I am also the being that made sure you would have a better life than I had growing up. My mother was indeed a nasty woman. He had 6 cubs each from a different male. I would not let you have her reputation hanging onto me, and over you. If you dont like me, fine! But you will either keep your mouth shut, or I will shut it for you." Angel was shocked, maybe he did have some of his mother in him after all. "Then leave me alone, or I may show you what a male of my size could do to a female of your size if challenged." Angel turned to walk out, but Bob spoke up "Well you wouldnt ever have to see Alice or myself again if you would stay and listen to what we have to offer." Jordan felt uneased "What do you mean father?"
Bob sighed, watching Angel come back over and sit down. "Do you wish to marry Tilly?" Jordan nodded "If she would have me, yes very much." Bob smiled happily "And Angel, do you want to marry Adin?" Angel also nodded "Bob eagerly stood, and began pacing in front of the two boys. "You both know we have been wanting to expand the Holt. Well, I will need a leader here, and there. Angel, you are one of my cubs afterall and between you and Adin, you know everything and more you need to know to be leaders. Afterall Angel, you were my second pick for heir. Alice and I are older lions, and we do plan to live the rest of our lives here, not as leaders but as two old farts in love." Jordan laughed, Angels face did not budge. "So Angel, would you, Adin, and some of the Holt like to go and begin our expansion? You being Chief?"
PART 5
Angel looked up at bob, surprised by his proposition. "If Adin would like to, I would as well, but she must become my mate first." Bob and Alice laughed "Of course Tilly and Adin would both have to agree in your marriages before this can happen." As Bob sat down, Alice got up to talk to the boys on a heart to heart level, even if Angel didnt want it. "Ask them at Shellys wedding tomorrow! Then we would have two weeks to prepare your weddings together!" Angel shook his head "I will ask Adin how, and when I please." Jordan rolled his eyes "Look I get it, you and Alice need to work things out, or forever be hateful at one another... But this isnt about her, this is about your future with Adin. OUR future with our wives. This is a romantically brilliant idea and I will pursue it, even if you do not." Angel sighed "Your right Jordan, how could I be so blind to Adin. I will, but not because Alice wants me to, I will because Adin will love it."
Jordan smiled "That a'boy!" Angel smiled at Jordans tease. "Come on Jordan, lets go discuss how we plan to do this, and drop the news on the girls if they say yes..." Angel winked at Jordan as they left the den. Alice tried to smile at Bob "Can I even hope for a better future for us? If he could forgive me..." Bob cut in "Us, Im not sure if he ever will." Meanwhile as Jordan and Angel talked, Tilly and Adin were at their friends Shellys den. Shelly had familiars over, helping her pick out flowers for her wedding. Shelly pointed towards some orange flowers "Those will do wonderfully!" As the monkey familiars left the room, Shelly turned to her two friends "So when do you think they will pop the question? And what will you say!?" Adin and Tilly looked lost, and both asked "What question?" Shelly laughed "Ya know marriage!"
Tillys ears swooned back at mention of the word "I-Im not sure we are ready for that Shell... Besides, I think he still loves Adin." Adin laid back "Of course he does! Who could ever get over Mwah!" The girls laughed, but the room faded into silence. "But not Tilly, in all seriousness I think he is over me." Tilly tried to smile "Yes, im his second choice." Shelly laughed "And what is he to you? Just your future mate? You just accepted him as is, he sought love and you wernt interested in giving it out." Adin was shocked by Shelly "And he didnt give his love to her either!" Shelly shook her head "You two were cubs, he didnt expect to have to show you love until you were, well now. However, Adin was rather mature for her age. She was givng out her love before she fully understood what love was." Shelly laughed "Look, its been what? 3, almost 4 weeks since she has kissed Jordan, and now she is crazy in love with Angel. Jordan is over Adin, and crazy in love with you Tilly."
Adin and Tilly both nodded, seeing her point. "The way I see it, you both wanted something that couldnt or wasnt yet there to be had. Now that you both have what you want and can have, why dwell on the past emotions and why not leap into a better future?"Adin smiled "Your very right Shelly." Tilly smiled and giggled "I remember why I love you Shelly... I think I do love Jordan... I really do." Shelly hugged both the girls "Yes, your both in love, I see it. Now will you help my love become official?" The girls laughed, and continued the preparations. Days passed, and the evening of the wedding came. The wedding was in a area made of vines and moss. Light only came in through the ceiling, and flowers of yellow, orange, and pink lines the entire area. After the Id do's and the earnings, the bride and groom snuck off to their den. Jordan and Angel decided to wait until almost midnight, when the stars light just barely came through the ceiling, and there was silence in the holt.
Tilly and Adin were tired from an eventful night. they had laid on the soft cool moss, basking in the night light. Angel and Jordan walked up to them, laying beside their mates. Angel started "At first, I didnt see you." Jordan continued "And I knew my world was incomplete." Angel smiled, putting his paw on Adins "But when I let you into my heart-" Jordan licked Tillys cheek "I knew I couldnt live without the love you have shown me." Angel and Jordan together asked "Will you become my wife?" Adin and Tilly of course nodded. The four lions spent the night in that cool dark room. Adin and Angel, Jordan and Tilly, celebrated their engagement by making their mate status official. By morning Angel and Jordan had told their brides to be of the proposition Bob had for them all to become Holt leaders. Both the girls were sad at the thought of leaving their best friend, but understood the honor and accepted it.
Their wedding was three weeks away, when the girls would be at proper age to bear cubs, but they were still told to wait for they were fairly small compared to the lionesses at the holt. As their wedding day came, Bruke was expected and asked to be here for the wedding. To give Tilly away of course. When Bruke finally arrived, the wedding was but 3 days away. Adin and Tilly were with Shelly, she was helping them with the finishing touches on their wedding. Adin was a bit sick, and had begun to gain some weight. Shelly told them it was before the wedding jitters, and she herself had them as well. Alice however knew better. "Adin, I dont suppose you and Angel have... Well, become a mated pair yet have you?"
Adin shyly looked away "What if we have?" Tilly also got nervous, they knew that theres a common understanding you wait til your married. Alice glared at the girls "Both of you! You were to young to do such a thing! Your still to young! Not even a year old yet!" Adin and Tilly shamefully looked down "Well were to young we get it, doesnt matter, were almost ready to have cubs anyways." Tilly mumbled out. Alice shook her head "Almost wont cut it since Adin is already pregnant." Tilly laughed, Adin suddenly had fear come across her face. "Yea right! After one night? And we were considered to young to even get pregnant at the time!" Adin took a shallow breathe "Are you sure Alice?" Alice nodded "I used to help some of the prides I passed through with hard labors and pregnancies, I know the signs. Even if everyone else here refuses to see them. We need to be prepared, thank the chief your such a large lioness! If you were small like Tilly, you could die in the birth"
Tilly was the first to break the stress in the room, with a gleeful squeak "Oh my gosh Adin! You and Angel are gonna be parents!" Adin nodded trying to smile "But its so fast... We wernt expecting this..." Alice smiled as well, trying to look happy "Well this is what you get for not waiting." Laughing down the hallway caught their attention, in walked Angel, Jordan, Bob, and Bruke. Tilly eagerly ran over to Jordan and Bruke, lovingly hugging them both. Jordan laughed "I knew you would be happy to see your dad, but your almost glowing!" Tilly giggled excitedly. Bruke smiled over at Adin and nodded "Getting a bit pudgy in the cushy life eh?" Bruke normally talked like this, to some this would offend but Adin knew Bruke meant it as a tease... and in her condition, she wouldnt care even if someone wasnt teasing her. "Well say your goodbyes Adin! We need to leave by morning if I am to be back by the wedding." The room of smiles dropped into cold silence Angel gasped "W-what? Didnt you know? Adin and I will be getting married with Jordan and Tilly!"
Adin nodded, tears in her eyes. Bruke shook his head "I promised to have her back to her family... if we hurried maybe she could come back and be wed?" Tilly shook her head "After not seeing her family in so long she would have to stay for at least a month! Even then, she would have to wait til her cub would be-" she stopped talking for a second before whispering "oops..." She turned towards Adin "IM SO SORRY!" She ran over to hug her Adin sighed "Its fine Tilly." Angel had a smile slowly crawl on his face "Your pregnant?" Bob and Bruke began to look angry, Bob tried to speak calmly "You two have mated already?" Jordan nodded "They have, and Tilly and I have. We celebrated our engagement." Bruke growled "Then you must accompany us Angel, you must raise your cub." Bob shook his head angerly "I am very disappointed in all of you." Alices ears dropped "Whats done is done! She can only make this kind of a journey once til after their cub is born, shall we put the wedding off for three or more months?" Tilly nodded her head "Of course!" Adin cut in "Lets have it tonight, when we come back we can celebrate and such. This cannot wait! I wont be back for several months, when I do... I WILL be back, we will take out place in the holt up north." Tilly nodded "Yes, lets do this!"
PART 6
The holt was informed, all the lions hurried off for the ceremony, and news of the pregnant Adin quickly spread. The marriage was hurried, for the fact that much needed discussed that night and the journey the following day needed prepping. After the official wedding, The announcement of Angel and Adin ruling the northern holt was revealed, then the news of her leaving and their first born cub not being born in the holt... Many lions became angry of this. They felt their northern chiefs should have their future chief be born in the holt. But the situation being as is, it could not be changed. Food was packed, and the goodbyes were sent. As the quickly coming morning arose, Adin and Angel became saddened by the fact of leaving. When the sun rose Jordan, Tilly, Alice, and Bob were all waiting to wish Adin, Angel, and Bruke a farewell. Jordan hugged his friend Angel "You sure you dont want someone to come along?" Bruke being the small lion he is walked up dwarfed between the two normal sized Holt males "No, trust me... with his colors he will be seen for miles, with his size, others will see him coming and run at the sight of him. Not to mention Adin has her fathers size, she could probably handle herself as well." He winked "Its me you have to worry about!" It eased the sadness trying to make jokes, but no one could keep their smiles. Tilly almost tackled Adin "Hurry back! I want to see your new cub, I want him or her to know Im their aunt!" Adin nodded tears pouring down "Of course Til!" Jordan hugged Adin after, "You will be missed..." Adin licked his cheek "As will you!" they said their farewells and left the safety of the holt. Adin instantly began to felt sick entering the forest, as they walked towards brighter and less dence parts. Angel licked her cheek "Dont worry, We will be fine. You need to stay calm and not stressed for our daughter." Adin laughed "How can you be sure it will be a girl?" Angel laughed "Your mother had a girl her first time, her mother had two girls and one boy her first birth, my mother and her mother both had twins both girls, then my mother had me a son. Girls run in our blood." Adin giggled "Im sure your right."
They had finally reached the end of the forest, tall grass lined the area in front of them. Angel smiled "I know great places to stop for breaks for you Adin. Im getting old and need to take them more frequently then we did our first time coming here. Do you remember your pride Adin?" The continued to walk as Adin tried to recall everyone "Yes, I remember my mother and father, but overall I remember being alone alot... I remember more of the land and the den of the holt." Bruke chuckled "You came from a pride, not a holt. Try to remember that!" Adin blushed "Your right... Its nothing like the holt..." Sadness covered her face "I told my mother I hated her as the last thing we said."Angel's ears fell back "Im sure she knows better." Adin closed her eyes tightly and tried not to cry "I hope she knows I didnt hate her... I just wanted something different... I wanted to do my own thing. Our pride was so small..." Bruke cut in "No, your families pride is rather large. Compared to the holt however, its so small you wouldnt believe lions live like that." Angel cocked his head "Im curious to see how small it is, at least I can learn everyones names quickly!" Adin laughed "Asim, Kai, Asante, some of my family." Angel shook his head "Nevermind, odd names... I forgot, they will be hard to remember." Adin smiled "Dont worry, im sure once you see their faces it will help." nightfall seemed to come almost to fast, they had to sleep in the tall grass close to a water hole. Angel had come back from a long drink "Its so hot out here." Bruke nodded "Compared to the holt, it is." Adin was sprawled out "Its kinda hot... I guess the heat runs in my blood. Its not that bad for me."
Angel laughed "You also dont have as thick of fur as I do." Adin smiled snuggling up to her mate "True." As the cool night fell, and Angel being the last to sleep, Adin began to have bad dreams. She was worried of seeing her family, worried of everything, worried of being worried. She knew it was dangerous for the cub to be worried, but she couldnt help it. She awoke to a almost labor pain, she gasped, curling into a ball "No... not now!" She whispered and the pain ceased, the sun was just rising, and Angel awoke to her whisper "Hello my wife." Adin smiled "Shall we wake Bruke and get going?" Bruke groaned "Im already awake..." He stood up stretching "Lets get a move on then, today is bound to get hot!" A couple days had passed, they were less than a days walk from thier Pride. This would be the last time they had to make a stop before they would meet Adins family. They had found a soft grassy area, surrounded by trees. Angel and Adin felt comfort, and were snuggling with the cool breeze. They didnt know is, but they were in the very spot Adin had been made possible, and where Adins parents had first met. A special place. "Angel... Im so scared about tomorrow." Angel rolled over by her, looking up into her eyes with a soft smile "Trust me, they will love to see you again! They will have missed you!" Adin nodded "I hope... But what if they dont like you, or the fact a male came with me? I remember many prides would kick out males... though mine kept them most times." Angel licked her cheek "Im sure they will accept me for your mate, and let us stay until our cub is ready to be born... If they are anything like you, your family will be amazing loving creatures with odd names and cute noses!" Adin laughed "Actually, I look almost nothing like most of my family. I take after my dad..." Angel licked her cheek "Well then, odd light colored lions!" Bruke moaned out loudly from his odd sleeping position "Light by far compared to the lions in the holt!" Adin and Angel laughed, and curled up for their last night alone, for the most part.
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Babyhorsies turn to catch up with me in our other parts of the story!

Angel is from: [link]
Base is by ~xkelbix

Description
As the cubs grew, so did their lessons. Adin and Tilly both had to take on more in their lessons every day. They had grown to be a challenge for the girls and Tilly had to learn to keep her mind focused. Tillys curiosity helped her prevail in her lessons, but Adin was the eager one, and could take in more each lesson. Adin would also rather be learning over playing, where as Tilly would much rather play. Tilly was more respectful towards others, she knew how to be quiet when needed be. Tilly had a life outside of lessons, Adin didnt have a life outside of Jordan. Adin had grown out of her shy and easily startled phase. She had become rather social because Jordan being the young prince had to also be social. Adin could name almost every lion in the holt, and knew many on a personal level. She was also the first choice when it came to babysit cubs, even though she was still young herself, she knew the importance and how to care for a newborn. Adin was to be an assistant to the queen, Tilly, when it was time. All these characteristics that Adin has been presenting were worth alot to Bob and the Holt. Especially since Tilly probably could not do everything on her own.
Adin, like Tilly had become stronger, and more agile. Unlike Tilly however, Adin was growing faster. Adin took after her father when it came to size. Adin outranked Tilly in the hunting party because of that. Adin and Tilly were both thought the benefits of a vegetarian/bug eating diet, and they were both off of meat. But there were still many lions in the holt who ate meat, and some traditional meals that required meat. Hunting was still needed, and they actively took part. Tilly was future queen after all, and she had to be able to support others and prove her worth. Adin and Jordan would spend all their time together, the holt had teasingly called them a set. If one was ever without the other, a lion would often tease by shouting "Oh no! the sets incomplete!" Tilly of course found it wonderful her mate and best friend were so close.
A bright and sunny day opened up, bringing idea weather for a lesson of berries and meat being dried in the sun for storage. Bob had Tilly, Jordan, and Adin all join in this lesson. Bob took them all out deep into the forest, on their way, lions walked by them with familiars and bags of items on their backs. Adin smiled "So does every lion get a familiar?" Jordan shook his head "Generally one per every den. Monkeys, meercats, snakes, and other animals are very helpful to have apart of a family." Adin nodded "They help with work we cant do ourselves, including giving us our earrings!" Jordan nodded. Bob stopped, smiling as Adin and Tilly let out a soft gasp. A hole in the forest, a circle lacking trees showed an area of lions and familiars busily hustling around with berries and meat.
Bob smiled "Here we are." Tilly nodded "I never knew what it was like here... this is AMAZING!" She eagerly looked around, then shouted "Why didnt you tell me this was so amazing!" Two lions chuckled and walked over to Tilly. Bob smiled, "Good morning Shelly... and Angel." A medium sized young adult lioness, Shelly, with a medium shade coat of brown nodded towards Bob before hugging Tilly. Angel, a large young adult male, with blue eyes and a golden coat just smiled at Bob then looked at Tilly "Well we tried! We told you, you should come work with us for a day!" Tilly laughed "But I dont want to work!" Adin and Jordan laughed, nudging each other playfully, they knew what Bob was planning. Bob sat down "Is that so Tilly?" Tillys ears dropped, she knew what was to come. "I mean I LOVE to work! But learning is my passion!" Angel and Shelly laughed with Jordan and Adin. Bob winked "Nice try, but today you get to have a paws on experience. Shelly will you show Tilly how the Meat works. Angel, please take Jordan and Adin to the berries." Angel playfully bowed "Of course m'lord."
Bob eagerly watched over the young lions and their lessons. Angel seemed almost hateful towards Jordan. Adin and Jordan apparently had a crush on each other, and Angel seemed resentful for it. "And then we pack the berries up and rush them back to the Holt for storage." Jordan chuckles "Can I demonstrate with Adin? Shes so small I could easily carry her." Angel rolls his eyes, "You could try carrying me if you want to carry someone, try giving a worker a break." Jordan laughed "Your much bigger than me, how could I ever carry you?" Angel scoffed "Exactly what I would expect from you. I could carry Bob if I wanted to. Your supposed to be just as strong as everyone else, in fact stronger to be the Holt leader. Instead your a cushy lazy lion who flirts with his mates best friend." Jordan roars "You dare speak to me like that?" Silence befalls the area. Angel steps up, showing his size in a challenging pose "Why would he have picked you for his heir?" Bob stepped in "Come on boys, lets not-" a meercat ran past the lions feet and straight to Bobs. "Chief you have a visitor, and she brings word of your sister." Bob smiles "Ah, thats wonderful news! Come Tilly, Jordan, Adin. Lets head back home and hear the news!" He bowed to the meercat, as she bowed back before running off to continue her duties.
Angel growled, "But kingy, this was just getting to be fun!" Jordan glared at Angel, Adin nudged Jordan "Lets not make your father wait Jordan. Come on." Jordan hurried along to his fathers side, eager to hear news of his Aunt. Adin turned toward Angel, at first angry, she caught sight of his blue eyes as he looked at her with not anger, but a disappointing look. Adin had originally meant to scorn him, but she just noticed that Angel was the only lion here with bright blue eyes. It caught her off guard, Angel smiled "Can I help you?" Adin blinked and groaned angerly "Cant you just leave Jordan alone! Your Tillys best friend, you should be kind to her future mate!" Angel laughed as Adin turned her back and began walking away "And shouldnt you respect your best friend and not flirt with her mate?" Adin didnt respond, she just couldnt.
As they returned to the holt, they entered into a odd room made of thick vines, light peeked in through the vines making it look rather pretty inside. It was the meeting room. Inside a lioness, full grown around Bobs age was sitting waiting patiently. She was a soft brown, a lighter lioness, but very big. She looked sad, her ears tucked back, she looked up at Bob entering the room, a big smile on his face. "Alice! Long time no see!" Bob eagerly ran to hug her, "You look as stunning as I remember!" Alice blushed, hugging tightly back "Your to kind Bobby." Adin and Jordan smiled looking at each other, they knew Bob and Alice apparently had history, more than friends perhaps. Bob smiled and sat down in front of Alice. "This is Jordan, all grown up! His future mate Tilly, and her best friend Adin! What news do you bring Alice?" Tilly broke in "Pleasure to meet you! I must go however for now. I look forward to seeing you around Alice!" As Tilly walked by Bob to leave he whispered "Why are you leaving?" Tilly sighed "I need to go the the bathroom!" Bob nodded as she took off.
Alice smiled at the young lions before turning towards Bob with a frown "As you know I left the holt with your sister long ago. We had gone off to find lives of our own, and maybe one day return with mates and live happily. We had a fight, many months ago... and we parted ways..." Tears began to form in her eyes "Bobby... She is gone..." Bob looked at her, concern on his face, and almost anger in his tone "What do you mean gone?!" Alice sniffled, tears pouring down her face "She passed away." Bob face contorted, as tears began dripping down his cheeks, he took a heavy, broken breathe "A-are you sure?" Anger again teased his tongue "But she was so young! How did she, what would have taken her life!" Alice tried to control her weak voice "She was killed by Hyenas... Im so sorry..." She hugged him, trying to comfort him, and he hugged her back. He broke off the hug suddenly "Come, lets talk about this further in my chambers." Jordan watched them walk away, shock covered his face.
Adin was shocked, never before had she seen Bob angry, especially she had never seen him cry. She turned toward Jordan, also finding tears had overcome his face. Jordans focus on his father and Alice broke once they turned a corner and were out of his sight. He suddenly felt Adins gaze upon him, he tried to hide his face by turning away. Jordan did not want Adin to see him cry, or even look sad. Adin knew Jordan felt he had to always be strong, but this is one of those times where Jordan needed to feel weak. She nuzzled him into a hug. A gasp of tears escaped Jordans lips, and he hugged her back, tightly. He tried to make it look as if he was comforting her, but anyone could see he was the one in need of the hug. Adin cried with Jordan for what felt like a long while. Adin unlocked their brace and tried to smile up at Jordan. Adin licked Jordans eyes, whiping away his tears. Jordan smiled at the affectionate gesture, and suddenly a look of love and passion came over his face. A look Adin had so longed for, but feared.
Unbeknownst to the two, Angel had came in, but he was out of their view just entering the area to hear of news. He did care for Alice as well, after all she was his mother, even if she had left him here as a cub when she left the holt. Since his father died, Bob had promised to watch over her cub while she was away. He was older than Jordan, but only by a month. He was much larger however, and he was raised to be a guard of the holt. Listening and watching was part of what he was trained to do, so instead of making himself known to the two lions, he sat back to wait for his opening. Adin turned away from Jordan, she knew their love could not be. It would be wrong of her, for the Holt, and wrong to hurt Tilly. Jordan lovingly raised his paw to Adins chin. Having her turn to face him and his gaze upon her. For a brief moment, their eyes had locked. Adin knew that a kiss would be inevitable unless she made a gesture to stop it. Adin stuttered "I-im s-sorry about your aunt..." Jordan nodded, leaning in close to Adins lips, his gaze never broke and his eyes seemed to find Adins no matter where she looked. "Adin, it means the world to me that you are here for me, even if my mate is not." Adins eyes begun to water, this time however for the pain of having to do what must be done. Adin squeaked "Your my friend, of course I will be there for you." Adin closed her eyes, trying not to let Jordan look into her eyes. Instead of backing away, Jordan kissed her. Adins eyes suddenly opened, she gasped and broke their kiss. Angel also gasped, he couldnt believe it. Jordan has indeed broke a vow to his father. Proof that he is unfit to be an Chief.
Jordans smile dropped, suddenly concerned. Jordan looked hurt, and it killed Adin to see him as such. "A-adin I thought you..." Adin nodded "I do... I love you Jordan, you are my first love and you will forever remain as such." Adins tear began to flow, she tried to put on a smile. Jordan was weak, she needed to be strong for the both of them. Jordan smiled, and leaned in again to try and kiss her. Hopeful this time she would kiss him back. Adin leaned back, Jordan became confused, almost angry. Out of all things, the one thing Bob has always made clear is his disapproval of showing anger in public areas. Adins ears swooned back, seeing her love again distressed by her. Jordan squinted his eyes "If you love me, then why wont you kiss me?" Adins eyes closed hard, trying to push her tears away. "Your not mine to kiss Jordan... you never will be." Jordan let out a growl "The one who I 'belong to' is not here for me, not here to comfort me in my time of need, not here for me to talk to, or cry to, or even discuss anything personal. Its all a duty to her! Besides she is always off playing with her desires mate!" Adins ears perked, she watched Jordan pace in his rant. Adin curiously added "Angel?" Angels ears perked at the mention of his name, he lowered to the ground, trying to stay hidden.
Jordan nodded, he stopped pacing, and looked at Adin, his ears fell back and sadness had returned to his face. "She has him... why cant I have you?" Adins mouth fell open with disgust, she opened her mouth wider almost as if to yell. She then let out a gruff growl, trying to control herself. "I will not be your concubine!" she looked him over viciously, she reached her paw out to push Jordan further away from her. Angel couldnt help but smile, a little thing like Adin trying to push a large lion like Jordan away from her... and Jordan letting her. Jordans faced showed nothing but disbelief "I never asked such a thing of you!" Adin turned her back and began to stomp away "Didnt you?!" Jordan looked down, "It came out wrong! I didnt mean it like that Adin!" Adin shook her head "I could care less what other lions do, I would never allowed myself to be in that way with a lion who already has a mate!" She left the room. Jordan began to just stare at the floor, thinking about what he had said that hurt her so.
Angel had walked out, showing himself to Jordan, "Ive never touched Tilly." Jordan jolted up, looking at the male. Feeling intimidated by Angels size, he assumed a position that would be taken as a challenge by most males. "Haven't you?!" Jordan exclaimed as he looked Angel over. "Ive seen you two together, how she acts with you, the loving gestures she doesnt hide. She has eyes for you Angel!" Angel let out a laugh of sarcasm "Yes, she has the eyes of a butterfly! Everyone and everything is looked upon and is as precious to her as a flower! I hate to inform you, but I dont think Tilly could ever not love anyone! And you know the worst part? She loves you unconditionally! Even if its obvious you want Adin as a mate. She loves you and forgives you." Jordan thought about it, and its true... Tilly loves everyone. "I dont approve of you spending so much time with my mate!" Angel rolled his eyes, "I see, so I cant spend time with someone I would never kiss?" before Jordan could defend himself Angel continued "And yet you claim to love you mate, and not have feeling for her friend, even if I catch you allowing yourself to kiss her, and telling her you want to mate with her?" Jordan let out a roar, and pounced into Angel. Jordan still smaller than angel could not push him over.
Angel, unfazed pushed Jordan away, embarrassed Jordan shouted "Get out of my sight!" Jordan tried to stand firm, and look threatening to Angel. Angel couldnt help but let out another laugh "Cute little kitty you be, but I wonder what Tilly would actually do if I told her of your little romance? Dont worry, unlike you I actually do care about her. I wouldnt hurt her by telling her this." Jordan looked at the ground, feeling guilty. Jordan walked off in the direction of his den. Angel nodded, satisfied with Jordan understanding the wrong he had just committed. Angel decided to go have a talk with Chief Bob, he said he wouldnt tell Tilly, not Bob.

PART 3
Angel sat outside of Bobs den, waiting for Alice to be escorted to a guest den. After Alice left, he walked in, and bowed to Bob... not making a snide remark. This couldnt help but strike Bob as curious, and worried. "Yes Angel?" Angel walked up to Bob "Jordan and Adin should be kept separate in their lessons from now on. They should also not allowed to spend time alone together." Bob laughed "And why not?". Angel smiled at Bobs disproving scoff "Your 'son' had tried to kiss Adin, and proposed her to be his lover." Suddenly Angel had Bobs full attention, then he looked at the ground, almost lost on how to respond. "A-and what if I said I did not believe you Angelous?" The fear in his voice was obvious, that he knew that this could happen.
Angel flicked his tail "Look I know I am a reminder of a past fault, I get it. But it is not my fault that you chose to ignore the obvious fact that I am your son, your last blood son. But it is not my fault that you chose Jordan to be your heir, and that he makes the same mistakes that you did. He is spoiled, and always has been. It must be a real change for him not getting what he wants. And why you would have chose him over-" Angels closed his eyes, swallowing back tears "Look, I love you, I worship you, and I had always loved you like the father you refuse to be. I have not, nor will I ever lie to you. But if you dont trust me, you can always ask Adin. She will also not tell a lie." Bob nodded, knowing that was all true. "You may leave me Angel, perhaps you could be of better use else where, like comforting a friend?"
Angel nodded, Bob knew Angel would go an try to comfort Adin. He couldnt stand to watch a lioness cry. As he walked into Adins den she happily shouted "Knock knock!" Adin turned away, she knew it was Angel, and she didnt want anyone seeing her cry. Embarrassed, she tried to stop crying "I-is it important?" Angel looked her over, knowing that she was trying very hard to be noble and not cry. He couldnt help but feel guilty that Adin had to pay for Jordans love crimes. "Yes." He walked in, noticing Adin was trying to keep her face hidden from him. Adin let out a headed sigh, and looked up at Angel. Her fur wet from the tears she had shed and a fake smile. "Ahem," Aden tried to sound like her normal self. "What is is Angel?" Angel looked her over, his bright eyes catching hers for an instant. Those blue eyes of his still captivated her. Angel smiled a large smile "Still trying to be strong enough for the both of you eh?" it broke Adin, she began to cry violently. Angel wrapped his arms around her to comfort her, she accepted his comfort. Angel also began to cry, feeling her pain.
Suddenly Tilly entered the room, she was happily prancing as usual. She suddenly stopped, dead in her tracts. She saw her two friend crying, and couldnt help crying as well, almost as hard as Adin. She ran over to hug her two friends. After a few minutes, the crying had stopped, and Adin let out a laugh as the hug broke. "Why are you crying Til?" Angel also let out a laugh. Tilly joined in and laughed as well "Because you were!" the laughing continued for a minute or two. Tilly rubbed her eyes "Why were you crying?" Adin blinked, remembering everything that had happened. "I had to let someone go, though I didnt want to, I had to." She smiled up at Tilly, as Tilly caught her off guard with a wink "Jordans not worth your tears anyways!" Adin was lost in total shock. Angel began laughing at their faces. Tilly giggled "Everyone knew this was bound to happen. You two thought you were so secret! Im not dull," Adin almost spoke up before Tilly chimed back in "Not saying you thought I was! Im just oddly happy all of the time. In fact sometimes, I would play dumb and try to get Bob to break the engagement." Adin hugged Tilly "Im so sorry Tilly!" Tilly shrugged "I dont care if im his mate, or not. I do however care if my friends are happy or not. You did the right thing Adin."
Adin smiled happily at her friend, then nodded at Angel. "Thank you Angel for comforting me." Angel smiled, then sighed "Well, it wasnt an easy task that just any lion could take on! It required strength, brains, and of course-Ugh" Tilly elbowed him, Angel gave her a dirty look "And good looks..." Adin and Tilly laughed. "Is he always this charming Tilly?" Adin looked over at Angel, Tilly nodded "Yea, I love to keep him as company. Hes like the court Jester." Angel laughed "And proud of it!" Adin laid down smiling up at her friends "So Angel whats up with you and Jordan?" Angels smile dropped "Well, My mother is Alice... and my father is Bob." Tilly and Adins eyes widened. Angel continued "Alice was Bobs first love interest. But he was engaged. He was engaged to a cub who wouldnt be born for a while. He was engaged to the neighboring prides royal families first daughter. While in wait, he and my mother had became very close... And they had eventually considered each other mates. The night before Bob was going to announce a broken engagement, the neighboring prides queen came to us. Her mate had died, and she wanted to marry Bob to unite their pride, with our Holt. That away we could have better hunting land for more exotic plants and animals." Tilly shook her head "He didnt accept did he?"
Angel shook his head "He had to, or he would be in war with their pride. Bob and Alice soon found out of their accident. I was conceived, and there was nothing they could do about it, he had been married, we do not divorce. If you were to divorce, you are expelled from the Holt. My mother was looked down upon by most of the Holt for the fact she was pregnant without a mate. Most of the Holt however knew who the father was, or assumed it was Bob. The queen, now chiefess, hated my mother. So my mother decided after I was mostly weened off, she would leave with Bob sister and leave me here with Bob. If Bob and the queen Prue didnt have a cub, I would be their heir, but Prue would do anything not to have me be the next Chief. Thats when Bob adopted Jordan as his son. I was raised to be his guard. so here I am... I have no family from my mothers side, my own father wont claim me so nor will his family, all I have is my friends." Angel tried to smile up at the two girls. "Aw why even smile," Angel laid down, putting his head between his paws "No point in trying to hide that the truth makes me all weepy." Adin couldnt help but smile, a sad smile. She went over and nudged his cheek before laying down beside him. "Let me tell you my past..." The three of them continued talking into the night. Adin had begun to realize just how dependent she had become on Jordan, how all his friends were her friends, and how everything she did was all around Jordans life.
Bob decided to go to Jordans den. He knew the troubles that would come from the romance Adin and Jordan could have. He looked in, to see Jordan mumbling to himself, pacing the room. Bob couldnt help but smile, Jordan was just like him. "I didnt mean it like that, I mean how could she take it like that! Im so stupid, It came out wrong..." Bob sat down, a smile across his face "Ah-hem." Jordan stopped in his tracks and looked over at his father. He sat down "D-dad... Hi." Bob let out a sigh, looking Jordan over. Jordans ears lowered, his dad knew. "Dad I can explain, I-" Bob shook his head "You two havent... havent mated have you?" Jordan smiled "No dad we havent..." Bob nodded "Good." Silence filled the room. Jordan spoke up "Where do we go from here?" He looked up at Bob, hoping for words of encouragement and maybe even a broken engagement. Bob sighed again "Get to know Tilly. I want you to spend all your free time with her, and also all your non free time. Your due for a wedding in two months." Jordan nodded sadly looking at the ground. Bob smiled "And after a month if you do not bond with her, or share a spark... I will do something that has never been done before." Jordan looked up at his dad, at first worried... Until he saw his dads smile. He then smiled himself. Bob nodded "I will break your engagement, Tilly and Adin would both be wonderful wives to the cheif."
Jordan almost tackled his father, giving him a big hug. "Woh, you still have all month to try and fall in love with Tilly, and dont forget to apologize to Adin... In the morning though." Jordan was almost at his door "The morning, right... Thank you dad!" Bob returned to his Den, Alice waiting for him. "Well Bob... I dont know about you, but I missed you." Bob smiled "Let me show you how much I missed you Alice." Morning came, and Jordan eagerly ran down to Adins den, to tell her the news... and of course say sorry. Adin, Tilly, and Angel had lost track of the night. They were sharing all their deep dark secrets, their dreams, wishes. Adin was shocked to find that Tilly and Angel had no love interest in each other in the least. Adin had been caught several times staring at Jordans blue eyes, she even asked why he had them. Angel told her he had Alices fathers eyes, something both Adin and Angel had in common... besides their names starting with A's.
Jordan had walked into Adins den, only to find Angel, Adin, and Tilly all sleeping on the same bed of leaves. He has expected to see Adin alone, and sad. Only to find her with his future mate and the lion he hated the most. Angel must have told Tilly what happened and they all came and talked it out. But still, Angel told Tilly, he broke his promise. Jordan let out a roar to awaken the three sleeping lions with a jolt "Your a liar Angel!" Jordan was furious, and loud for such early hours. Angel laughed "What are you talking about Jordan?" they all three stretched. Jordan looked disgusted "You lied to me and told me you wouldnt tell Tilly!" Tilly jumped in, not one to normally fight "You honestly think so low of him? And me?" Jordan looked confused "You do! You think im stupid! You believe I cant figure things out on my own? Its obvious Jordan, Its obvious to the entire Holt that you love Adin! While your in love with my best friend, you spread rumors of me and Angel to make yourself feel better, and maybe even get Bob to break our engagement! Well thats fine with me! I dont want to marry you!" Tilly begun to cry, this time for herself. Something truly saddening, because Tilly never cries for herself. "Grow up Jordan, wise up. If you ever hope to rule this, this Holt, you need to grow a brain!" Tilly ran out of the room, leaving the three lions in an awkward silence.
Adin walked up to Jordan, not angry... "Go apologize to your mate Jordan." Her tail flicked behind her, she was obviously disappointed with him as was he with himself. Jordan tried not to let his voice crack "Thats what I came to talk about, my dad said we could be together! that in a month he would break-" Adins ears lowered, her tail stopped moving. Jordan was looking for her reaction "He will break the engagement Adin... We can be married!" Adin didnt know what to say, she looked towards Angel, he looked worried, hurt even. Adin looked back at Jordan. Angel had begun to see what Jordan loved about Adin. He was also in love with her. Something he had never done with any lion before. Jordan tried to smile, he didnt understand why she wasnt as excited as he was. "Just one month Adin, then we can prepare for our wedding! I just have to spend the next month with Tilly, to try and get a spark. But im in love with you, and I could never like her like I do you, even though he wants me to try!" Jordans eyes were almost glowing with joy, yet Adins looked almost sad.
Adin closed her eyes and looked at the ground. "No, I will not marry you Jordan." Jordan looked her over, lost in disbelief. "I dont want to see you, I dont want you thinking of me, I want you to give Tilly a proper chance, she deserved better than this. More than this." Jordan shook his head "Adin, she will forgive you! We can be together! Please Adin!" Tears were in his eyes, Adin kept her eyes closed, if she looked into his eyes, she would give into her passions. His cracking voice made her want to comfort him, but she knew that Tilly deserved the throne, her birth right. "Go to her Jordan, tell her your sorry. Give her your heart." Adin was crying. Jordan just stood there, hurt, light headed. Adin let out a heavy sigh, then opened her eyes to look up at him, she couldnt help it. She kissed him, and he kissed her back. Angel felt a pink in his heart, watching them embrace. Angel coudlnt look away, no matter how much he wanted to. Again, it was Adin that ended it. She broke their kiss, and smiled, looking lovingly at Jordan. Jordan smiled back, lovingly looking into her eyes. Adin nodded, a sigh of relief escaped her lips. "And that is the last of my love you will ever have Jordan. Now go to her." Adin pushed Jordan, holding her tears back. "Jordan you better leave here and go comfort her, or I swear ill.... Ill push you all the way there myself!" Jordan left Adins den, confused, unsure what had just happened. All he knew was Adin had a stronger heart than he, and she refused to love him anymore.
PART 4
Angel walked up beside Adin, watching Jordan go. Even Angel was not sure of what just happened. Adin turned and hugged Jordan, her hug was unexpected, and catching Angel off guard was a rare occurrence. Adins weight had knocked Angel over, she fell on top of him. They both laughed. A good way to break the tension "Im sorry Angel!" Adin tried to get off of him without stepping on him or hurting him in any way. Angel looked at Adin, his eyes glowing happily. "Do you really no longer love Jordan?" Adin shook her head "I will always love him." Angels eyes turned almost sad, he tried to keep his smile, and Adin knew Angel had hoped for something else. "But, that doesnt mean my heart belongs to him." Angel licked her cheek, Adins eyes whent wide. Angel saw shock in her eyes "I-im sorry Adin Im so insensitive!" Adin smiled, trying to stand to get off of him, she could almost reach the ground "Angel, its fine... You are a sweet lion, and your a very handsome-" She slipped on his rib, tickling Angel, he let out a laugh. It caused Adin to slip, falling, her mouth to his. Adin closed her eyes, kissing Angel, and he of course kissed her back.
Jordan walked into Tillys room, he looked around sighing. "You know, I am glad my dad gave you and Adin your own rooms. Even though its kinda empty here since Bruke left." Tilly didnt look at him, she faced the wall. "Yea well, you know my dad. He cant handle staying in one place for very long... And since im the future mate to the chief to be, I get my own room... Leaving Adin our old room." Tilly felt a sickness in her stomach. "What dont you love about me?" She stood and faced Jordan. "You never gave me a chance, its like since we were engaged, you were turned off from me. Like since you couldnt choose me, I wasnt a prize to be had." Jordan had never known Tilly to be serious, in fact he never really thought much about Tilly and her personal feelings. "I-I dont know Til... Ive always been obedient to my father... I guess this was some form of rebellion?" Tilly shook her head at him "What a time to do a rebellion. You hurt so many others, instead of just your father. How selfish are you Jordan?" Jordan was taken by surprise, he had never really thought this through. Who would have suspected Tilly of figuring it out and see it like that. Not Jordan. "I could care less if you and Adin were together, if your the kind of lion that I have seen you be as of late... I dont want to be your mate. I dont want you in my life, nor in Adins. But she loves you, and I am her friend... so I will support her."
Jordan sat down "Tilly, I am so sorry. I didnt realize I hurt you like this... I will be spending the next month with you, and by the end... I hope you see me as a better lion." Tilly let out a sarcastic laugh "Yes, and then you can marry Adin with my approval. Clear your coincidence eh?" Jordan nodded "Maybe, or maybe theres a chance that we would fall in love." Tillys ears perked up, shocked. "No, you dont want to spend time with me... Bob is making you." Jordan walked up to her with a smile "No, I want to. I promise I will never underestimates you again. Adin wants us to try and work this out, Adin wants us to be together... so Im willing to try. Who knows how this will all turn out." Tillys ears lowered "I dont want this all to be for Adin Jordan, I want this to be for us." Jordan nodded, agreeing with her. Jordan turned to walk away, "See you tomorrow Tilly!" Tilly smiled, "Bye bye!" Jordan couldnt help but laugh. That was the Tilly he knew and hopefully will come to love.
The next day, Angel decided he needed to go talk with his blood parents. It was about time he told them how much he hated his life and blamed them for it. Angel walked into Bobs den, and of course found him laughing with Alice. Alice looked up seeing Angel "Oh Angel hunny, come on in!" Angel was already in the room, he was agitated that she felt that her invitation was the only thing allowing him in. Angel sat, an angry look on his face. Bob smiled up at Angel "Whats wrong Angelous?" Angels face contorted into a look of disbelief and anger. "Whats wrong? You two are sitting here like mates, and I your blood cub walks in here obviously angry at the both of you for deserting me as a cub, and you ask whats wrong?!" Alices smile dropped right off her face. Bob just had a look of, yep, pretty much. Alice sighed "I knew you would come ask these questions... You see I left because-" Angel cut in "Because the holt thought you as dirty, you were a young mother in love with the holt leader, blagh blagh, his wife hated you, yada yada, you left me in Bobs care. I know the story, ive heard it every time I ever asked."
Alice smiled "Then why are you upset?" Angel again looked completely in disbelief. "You deserted your son, with no family, into the hands of a man who only cared about raising a spoiled brat who wasnt even his blood! Hello?" Alice shook her head "You look healthy, well raised. From your snide comments you apparently love your father, and he loves you. I dont see what I did wrong." Angel took a slow breathe "Why didnt you take me with you?" Alice shrugged her shoulders "Its to dangerous for a cub to go out. I made the obviously right choice." Angel growled "What kind of a mother are you?" Alice smiled "Apparently a responsible one with a son who apparently hates her for trying to give him the best life she could." Bob nodded "I may not have raised you as my son, but you were raised here in the Holt. You complain about not having a family, but as everyone can agree... Everyone here claims each other as family." Angel shook his head "I felt so alone, and rejected here... Even my own father wouldnt have me, and my mother left me behind. You know how badly I got teased? By Jordan, by everyone?" Alice shook her head "Im sorry I wasnt here to stop that, but I had to-" Angel cut in "Get away because everyone was mean to you and teased you? And spread rumors about you? What do you think HAPPENED TO ME!" His voice cracked.
Alice shook her head "I just thought this would be the best life I could give you..." Angel turned, ready to leave. "The only good thing in my life right now, is because I had two people in this world who cared for me while the rest of the world rejected me. Otherwise I would be dead, I almost killed myself when I was young because of the hell you two put me through." Alices eyes got tears, she walked over to stand face to face with Angel "Do you need to hear it again? Im sorry for leaving you here. This was the only option YOU had to live. Im worry lions can be cruel, but thats why you got so strong. You took it... You handled it... Look at you, your strong, brilliant, a son Bob and I couldnt have never made on our own. If you hate how Jordan acts so much, be thankful your father didnt spoil you! Be thankful your so called sluty mother wasnt here, or else you would have had it even worse. Sometimes I wish I had the strength to kill myself! Is this what you want to hear?"
Angel shook his head, and hugged her "Yes." Alice backed off, shocked that he said that. "Yes, I wish I was loved more than Jordan, given the cushy life. I wish I could be lazy like him. Yes I wish my slut of a mother would have stayed to love me. No I would never want you to take your own life, no I would never wish my life upon another lion, no I will never call you my mother." Alice was shocked "I never asked for you to call me mom..." Angel laughed "Didnt you? I can see it in your eyes. You long for nothing more than to have a perfect life now that your back. So you can brag about your wonderful strong handsome son who is best friends with the queen to be. I can see how you want things, but you may have Bob, but you will never have me." Angel left the room. Alice shook her head "I just want to love you... and for you to love me..." Bob walked over to comfort her "Hes strong, even to strong for us." Alice nodded. "I wish he could be weak for us."
Jordan and Tilly had begun to hang out on a daily basis, as did Adin and Angel. Shelly hadnt been hanging around them as of late, because Shelly was engaged. She was spending most of her time with her mate Bronx and his family. Tilly and Angel didnt mind of course, she was happy and in love. They understood how she felt. Angel had begun to court Adin, and Jordan courted Tilly. Adin still did have feelings for Jordan, and that caused plenty of tension between Angel and Jordan. Tilly and Adin could not trust the two of them alone together for very long. things being as they were, it helped put Bob at ease. The holt had never broken and engagement before, and Bob was not anxious to be the first to do so.
Weeks had passed, and Jordan and Angel were getting along. Angel no longer felt the need to be jealous of Jordan, and Jordan no longer felt the need to well... be the general ass he had been in the past. All seemed at well in the holt. Tilly would still however have to decide if she wanted to break the engagement. Bob decided he needed to talk with the two young males before any more decisions were made. He had Jordan and Angel summoned to his den. As the two boys arrived, Bob greeted them with a smile and a hug. "Welcome my boys!" Bob warmly greeted them. Angel felt uncomfortable, Bob must want something from him because he generally doesnt act very kindly to Angel. Bob walked over to his nest of leaves and sat down "Come sit!" Bob called inviting them for a chat. Jordan obeyed, while Angel bowed "Yes your highness!" He just couldnt resist. Jordan had begun to find Angels antics amusing, in fact they could almost call one another friends. Bob also seemed to smile, this worried Angel further.
"So I see you and Tilly seem to be almost a pair for marriage." Bob casually started the conversation. Jordan nodded "Yes, Tilly is a lovely girl." Alice walked in with a giggle "A lovely girl? So have you yet to fallen in love with her, and whisked her away for a happily every after?" Now Angel knows why Bob was being so kind... is he planning on marrying Alice, and she wants his blessing? Who knows, but its something he wont like. Jordan looked down at the ground "I dont know.... I think I do." Bob smiled "Does she love you?" Jordan shrugged "I dont know, sometimes she loves me... other times I think she wants to beat me to a pulp." Bob laughed "I cant understand your love for her, she is just like Alice was when she was young-" Angel cut in, stern and unmoving "Tilly is nothing like Alice. she is a far better lioness than Alice could ever be." Jordan was shocked, Alice was his mother afterall.
Alice sighed, snuggling to Bob for comfort. Bob shook his head "You dont have to like your mother, but you will show her respect." Angel laughed "Respect is earned. She has to prove she is worth it." Alice growled "I am you mother, the creature that brought you into this world! You will show me some respect on that note. I am also the being that made sure you would have a better life than I had growing up. My mother was indeed a nasty woman. He had 6 cubs each from a different male. I would not let you have her reputation hanging onto me, and over you. If you dont like me, fine! But you will either keep your mouth shut, or I will shut it for you." Angel was shocked, maybe he did have some of his mother in him after all. "Then leave me alone, or I may show you what a male of my size could do to a female of your size if challenged." Angel turned to walk out, but Bob spoke up "Well you wouldnt ever have to see Alice or myself again if you would stay and listen to what we have to offer." Jordan felt uneased "What do you mean father?"
Bob sighed, watching Angel come back over and sit down. "Do you wish to marry Tilly?" Jordan nodded "If she would have me, yes very much." Bob smiled happily "And Angel, do you want to marry Adin?" Angel also nodded "Bob eagerly stood, and began pacing in front of the two boys. "You both know we have been wanting to expand the Holt. Well, I will need a leader here, and there. Angel, you are one of my cubs afterall and between you and Adin, you know everything and more you need to know to be leaders. Afterall Angel, you were my second pick for heir. Alice and I are older lions, and we do plan to live the rest of our lives here, not as leaders but as two old farts in love." Jordan laughed, Angels face did not budge. "So Angel, would you, Adin, and some of the Holt like to go and begin our expansion? You being Chief?"
PART 5
Angel looked up at bob, surprised by his proposition. "If Adin would like to, I would as well, but she must become my mate first." Bob and Alice laughed "Of course Tilly and Adin would both have to agree in your marriages before this can happen." As Bob sat down, Alice got up to talk to the boys on a heart to heart level, even if Angel didnt want it. "Ask them at Shellys wedding tomorrow! Then we would have two weeks to prepare your weddings together!" Angel shook his head "I will ask Adin how, and when I please." Jordan rolled his eyes "Look I get it, you and Alice need to work things out, or forever be hateful at one another... But this isnt about her, this is about your future with Adin. OUR future with our wives. This is a romantically brilliant idea and I will pursue it, even if you do not." Angel sighed "Your right Jordan, how could I be so blind to Adin. I will, but not because Alice wants me to, I will because Adin will love it."
Jordan smiled "That a'boy!" Angel smiled at Jordans tease. "Come on Jordan, lets go discuss how we plan to do this, and drop the news on the girls if they say yes..." Angel winked at Jordan as they left the den. Alice tried to smile at Bob "Can I even hope for a better future for us? If he could forgive me..." Bob cut in "Us, Im not sure if he ever will." Meanwhile as Jordan and Angel talked, Tilly and Adin were at their friends Shellys den. Shelly had familiars over, helping her pick out flowers for her wedding. Shelly pointed towards some orange flowers "Those will do wonderfully!" As the monkey familiars left the room, Shelly turned to her two friends "So when do you think they will pop the question? And what will you say!?" Adin and Tilly looked lost, and both asked "What question?" Shelly laughed "Ya know marriage!"
Tillys ears swooned back at mention of the word "I-Im not sure we are ready for that Shell... Besides, I think he still loves Adin." Adin laid back "Of course he does! Who could ever get over Mwah!" The girls laughed, but the room faded into silence. "But not Tilly, in all seriousness I think he is over me." Tilly tried to smile "Yes, im his second choice." Shelly laughed "And what is he to you? Just your future mate? You just accepted him as is, he sought love and you wernt interested in giving it out." Adin was shocked by Shelly "And he didnt give his love to her either!" Shelly shook her head "You two were cubs, he didnt expect to have to show you love until you were, well now. However, Adin was rather mature for her age. She was givng out her love before she fully understood what love was." Shelly laughed "Look, its been what? 3, almost 4 weeks since she has kissed Jordan, and now she is crazy in love with Angel. Jordan is over Adin, and crazy in love with you Tilly."
Adin and Tilly both nodded, seeing her point. "The way I see it, you both wanted something that couldnt or wasnt yet there to be had. Now that you both have what you want and can have, why dwell on the past emotions and why not leap into a better future?"Adin smiled "Your very right Shelly." Tilly smiled and giggled "I remember why I love you Shelly... I think I do love Jordan... I really do." Shelly hugged both the girls "Yes, your both in love, I see it. Now will you help my love become official?" The girls laughed, and continued the preparations. Days passed, and the evening of the wedding came. The wedding was in a area made of vines and moss. Light only came in through the ceiling, and flowers of yellow, orange, and pink lines the entire area. After the Id do's and the earnings, the bride and groom snuck off to their den. Jordan and Angel decided to wait until almost midnight, when the stars light just barely came through the ceiling, and there was silence in the holt.
Tilly and Adin were tired from an eventful night. they had laid on the soft cool moss, basking in the night light. Angel and Jordan walked up to them, laying beside their mates. Angel started "At first, I didnt see you." Jordan continued "And I knew my world was incomplete." Angel smiled, putting his paw on Adins "But when I let you into my heart-" Jordan licked Tillys cheek "I knew I couldnt live without the love you have shown me." Angel and Jordan together asked "Will you become my wife?" Adin and Tilly of course nodded. The four lions spent the night in that cool dark room. Adin and Angel, Jordan and Tilly, celebrated their engagement by making their mate status official. By morning Angel and Jordan had told their brides to be of the proposition Bob had for them all to become Holt leaders. Both the girls were sad at the thought of leaving their best friend, but understood the honor and accepted it.
Their wedding was three weeks away, when the girls would be at proper age to bear cubs, but they were still told to wait for they were fairly small compared to the lionesses at the holt. As their wedding day came, Bruke was expected and asked to be here for the wedding. To give Tilly away of course. When Bruke finally arrived, the wedding was but 3 days away. Adin and Tilly were with Shelly, she was helping them with the finishing touches on their wedding. Adin was a bit sick, and had begun to gain some weight. Shelly told them it was before the wedding jitters, and she herself had them as well. Alice however knew better. "Adin, I dont suppose you and Angel have... Well, become a mated pair yet have you?"
Adin shyly looked away "What if we have?" Tilly also got nervous, they knew that theres a common understanding you wait til your married. Alice glared at the girls "Both of you! You were to young to do such a thing! Your still to young! Not even a year old yet!" Adin and Tilly shamefully looked down "Well were to young we get it, doesnt matter, were almost ready to have cubs anyways." Tilly mumbled out. Alice shook her head "Almost wont cut it since Adin is already pregnant." Tilly laughed, Adin suddenly had fear come across her face. "Yea right! After one night? And we were considered to young to even get pregnant at the time!" Adin took a shallow breathe "Are you sure Alice?" Alice nodded "I used to help some of the prides I passed through with hard labors and pregnancies, I know the signs. Even if everyone else here refuses to see them. We need to be prepared, thank the chief your such a large lioness! If you were small like Tilly, you could die in the birth"
Tilly was the first to break the stress in the room, with a gleeful squeak "Oh my gosh Adin! You and Angel are gonna be parents!" Adin nodded trying to smile "But its so fast... We wernt expecting this..." Alice smiled as well, trying to look happy "Well this is what you get for not waiting." Laughing down the hallway caught their attention, in walked Angel, Jordan, Bob, and Bruke. Tilly eagerly ran over to Jordan and Bruke, lovingly hugging them both. Jordan laughed "I knew you would be happy to see your dad, but your almost glowing!" Tilly giggled excitedly. Bruke smiled over at Adin and nodded "Getting a bit pudgy in the cushy life eh?" Bruke normally talked like this, to some this would offend but Adin knew Bruke meant it as a tease... and in her condition, she wouldnt care even if someone wasnt teasing her. "Well say your goodbyes Adin! We need to leave by morning if I am to be back by the wedding." The room of smiles dropped into cold silence Angel gasped "W-what? Didnt you know? Adin and I will be getting married with Jordan and Tilly!"
Adin nodded, tears in her eyes. Bruke shook his head "I promised to have her back to her family... if we hurried maybe she could come back and be wed?" Tilly shook her head "After not seeing her family in so long she would have to stay for at least a month! Even then, she would have to wait til her cub would be-" she stopped talking for a second before whispering "oops..." She turned towards Adin "IM SO SORRY!" She ran over to hug her Adin sighed "Its fine Tilly." Angel had a smile slowly crawl on his face "Your pregnant?" Bob and Bruke began to look angry, Bob tried to speak calmly "You two have mated already?" Jordan nodded "They have, and Tilly and I have. We celebrated our engagement." Bruke growled "Then you must accompany us Angel, you must raise your cub." Bob shook his head angerly "I am very disappointed in all of you." Alices ears dropped "Whats done is done! She can only make this kind of a journey once til after their cub is born, shall we put the wedding off for three or more months?" Tilly nodded her head "Of course!" Adin cut in "Lets have it tonight, when we come back we can celebrate and such. This cannot wait! I wont be back for several months, when I do... I WILL be back, we will take out place in the holt up north." Tilly nodded "Yes, lets do this!"
PART 6
The holt was informed, all the lions hurried off for the ceremony, and news of the pregnant Adin quickly spread. The marriage was hurried, for the fact that much needed discussed that night and the journey the following day needed prepping. After the official wedding, The announcement of Angel and Adin ruling the northern holt was revealed, then the news of her leaving and their first born cub not being born in the holt... Many lions became angry of this. They felt their northern chiefs should have their future chief be born in the holt. But the situation being as is, it could not be changed. Food was packed, and the goodbyes were sent. As the quickly coming morning arose, Adin and Angel became saddened by the fact of leaving. When the sun rose Jordan, Tilly, Alice, and Bob were all waiting to wish Adin, Angel, and Bruke a farewell. Jordan hugged his friend Angel "You sure you dont want someone to come along?" Bruke being the small lion he is walked up dwarfed between the two normal sized Holt males "No, trust me... with his colors he will be seen for miles, with his size, others will see him coming and run at the sight of him. Not to mention Adin has her fathers size, she could probably handle herself as well." He winked "Its me you have to worry about!" It eased the sadness trying to make jokes, but no one could keep their smiles. Tilly almost tackled Adin "Hurry back! I want to see your new cub, I want him or her to know Im their aunt!" Adin nodded tears pouring down "Of course Til!" Jordan hugged Adin after, "You will be missed..." Adin licked his cheek "As will you!" they said their farewells and left the safety of the holt. Adin instantly began to felt sick entering the forest, as they walked towards brighter and less dence parts. Angel licked her cheek "Dont worry, We will be fine. You need to stay calm and not stressed for our daughter." Adin laughed "How can you be sure it will be a girl?" Angel laughed "Your mother had a girl her first time, her mother had two girls and one boy her first birth, my mother and her mother both had twins both girls, then my mother had me a son. Girls run in our blood." Adin giggled "Im sure your right."
They had finally reached the end of the forest, tall grass lined the area in front of them. Angel smiled "I know great places to stop for breaks for you Adin. Im getting old and need to take them more frequently then we did our first time coming here. Do you remember your pride Adin?" The continued to walk as Adin tried to recall everyone "Yes, I remember my mother and father, but overall I remember being alone alot... I remember more of the land and the den of the holt." Bruke chuckled "You came from a pride, not a holt. Try to remember that!" Adin blushed "Your right... Its nothing like the holt..." Sadness covered her face "I told my mother I hated her as the last thing we said."Angel's ears fell back "Im sure she knows better." Adin closed her eyes tightly and tried not to cry "I hope she knows I didnt hate her... I just wanted something different... I wanted to do my own thing. Our pride was so small..." Bruke cut in "No, your families pride is rather large. Compared to the holt however, its so small you wouldnt believe lions live like that." Angel cocked his head "Im curious to see how small it is, at least I can learn everyones names quickly!" Adin laughed "Asim, Kai, Asante, some of my family." Angel shook his head "Nevermind, odd names... I forgot, they will be hard to remember." Adin smiled "Dont worry, im sure once you see their faces it will help." nightfall seemed to come almost to fast, they had to sleep in the tall grass close to a water hole. Angel had come back from a long drink "Its so hot out here." Bruke nodded "Compared to the holt, it is." Adin was sprawled out "Its kinda hot... I guess the heat runs in my blood. Its not that bad for me."
Angel laughed "You also dont have as thick of fur as I do." Adin smiled snuggling up to her mate "True." As the cool night fell, and Angel being the last to sleep, Adin began to have bad dreams. She was worried of seeing her family, worried of everything, worried of being worried. She knew it was dangerous for the cub to be worried, but she couldnt help it. She awoke to a almost labor pain, she gasped, curling into a ball "No... not now!" She whispered and the pain ceased, the sun was just rising, and Angel awoke to her whisper "Hello my wife." Adin smiled "Shall we wake Bruke and get going?" Bruke groaned "Im already awake..." He stood up stretching "Lets get a move on then, today is bound to get hot!" A couple days had passed, they were less than a days walk from thier Pride. This would be the last time they had to make a stop before they would meet Adins family. They had found a soft grassy area, surrounded by trees. Angel and Adin felt comfort, and were snuggling with the cool breeze. They didnt know is, but they were in the very spot Adin had been made possible, and where Adins parents had first met. A special place. "Angel... Im so scared about tomorrow." Angel rolled over by her, looking up into her eyes with a soft smile "Trust me, they will love to see you again! They will have missed you!" Adin nodded "I hope... But what if they dont like you, or the fact a male came with me? I remember many prides would kick out males... though mine kept them most times." Angel licked her cheek "Im sure they will accept me for your mate, and let us stay until our cub is ready to be born... If they are anything like you, your family will be amazing loving creatures with odd names and cute noses!" Adin laughed "Actually, I look almost nothing like most of my family. I take after my dad..." Angel licked her cheek "Well then, odd light colored lions!" Bruke moaned out loudly from his odd sleeping position "Light by far compared to the lions in the holt!" Adin and Angel laughed, and curled up for their last night alone, for the most part.
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Babyhorsies turn to catch up with me in our other parts of the story!

Angel is from: [link]
Base is by ~xkelbix