C: Hinto Ansoomse-SilverLutz vs. Balulekile-AstoriaFallen

[SilverLutz]

Hinto had always been an energetic cub and it seemed to have carried over into their adulthood. It was great for hunting but when there was nothing else to be done they found boredom was a constant companion. Thankfully, the annual gathering of the clans provided a bit of fun for them and Hinto had been quick to enter into the Sky Ceremony. They were from the sky clan so they should have at least a bit of luck on their side, right?

They were facing off against a male about their own age, though he was much larger than they were. A joining rogue perhaps? His excitement was palpable, though, and it was infectious. Hinto gave a little smile and a nod of agreement, shifting to ready themselves for the spar to commence.

"You too."

AstoriaFallen

 

[SilverLutz]

Although Hinto was energetic and a pretty good hunter, they never had really battled before. As Balulekile feinted Hinto fell for it, lunging forward to try to land a hit of their own. But the larger lion moved at the last moment, leaving Hinto high and dry. They felt a tap against their shoulder and let out a little laugh of amusement at the move.

“Nice one!” they said, spinning quickly so their back wasn’t to their opponent.

“AstoriaFallen”

 

[SilverLutz]

Hinto was ready this time and let Balulekile charge forward. It was a risky move on his part, but Hinto held their ground and took the hit to exchange one of their own. They caught Balulekile on his rump as he twisted away, a feeling of success filling them.

“Woo!” they cried, clearly pleased that they landed a hit. Even though Balulekile was one hit away from a victory, Hinto was definitely having a blast and enjoying every moment of the spar.

“AstoriaFallen”

 

[SilverLutz]

Hinto lowered their head and gave their bum a little wiggle, ready to pounce again, but Balulekile was quicker. They felt the tap before they could even lift a paw, signaling the end of the little battle. Their muscles relaxed as they admitted defeat, though there was a broad smile on their face.

“So did you!” they exclaimed, grinning up at their former opponent. “You’re really good. I bet you’ll make it all the way to the final.” They had high hopes, at least, because then that meant they were beat by one of the best.  

[SilverLutz]

The energy and enthusiasm Balulekile had was proof enough to Hinto that he'd make it to the final. There weren't many other lions standing in his way at this point so it was really a pretty good shot. They did hope he'd make it and they'd definitely be there to cheer him on. It was always fun to watch the championship battle! Maybe they'd try again next year, work on their battle skills during the time between then and now. A lion could change quite a bit in that much time and Hinto was still pretty young. They still had a lot to learn and would definitely be taking the tactics Balulekile and working on them.

"You too! Good luck. I'll be rooting for you," Hinto said with a little bob of their own head before heading back to the sidelines. There was still so much to see and do, new members to welcome, and lots of good food to eat. They weren't too sad about not moving forward since it meant they'd have to miss out on some of the other fun festivities, but they definitely had a new goal now: get further in the sky tournament next year and do their clan proud!

FIN