The Dreamcatchers / Night Watch

- So, you really think that you stand a chance against me?

Sazha sat down, puffing out his chest proudly. He could feel a slight breeze rustling his fur as he focused his gaze at Szikra with intensity. It was hard to focus on being impressive and maybe even slightly rude to her because his attention kept being swept by the shine of her hair glistening in the morning sun as they negotiated on top of a mountain.

- Yes. In fact, I think I have this in the bag.

Sazha smiled cheekily.

- You wouldn’t know this because you’re not from here, but I have created this pride out of my dearest friends. All the lions here know me and trust me. They know I am the best possible leader for them and they will not be swayed astray by your promises of lush lands and coconut drinks.

He was acting confident and aloof, but it was all acting. He noticed Szikra smirk at his words and narrow her eyes.

- Oh my, whatever will I do. Poor me, a gentle, innocent soul all alone in this world. And here I am, trying to get all up in your business and steal your spotlight when I clearly don’t stand a chance. Silly me. Maybe I should just turn tail and run? Leave before I embarrass myself?

- Yeah! That’s a good idea - Skye chimed in immediately. Sazha has instructed him to stay quiet during his talk to Szikra, but Skye was too impatient. Sazha told him that that is exactly the problem. Negotiations require patience and strategy, the two things the little tiger is incapable of. Any outburst from him is likely to ruin whatever plan Sazha has. - Just go home, noone wants you here. You have no chance of winning anyway.

Sazha had to really try not to roll his eyes. He was here for a bit of banter, but he wanted to keep a good rapport with Szikra. Right now he had to rely on his lions being loyal to him because, honestly, that was all he got. He couldn’t offer them what Szikra did, mostly because he didn’t want to. He wouldn’t admit it in front of them, but she would make a great leader. She was strong, smart, charming and had plenty of innovative ideas for improving the life of the pride and the surrounding lands. Sazha was aware that she had a good chance at winning. He hasn’t shared it with Skye, but he was considering forming an alliance with her if things go dire, which they might. A good tactician was open to all options.

- Skye - he growled at the tiger. - Shush.

- Okay, okay, as your right hand man I’m just saying it as it is, just helping out.

Szikra looked like the whole situation only humoured her.

- Noone? Are you perfectly sure about that? - her eyes narrowed as she stepped closer to Skye. - Perfectly sure there’s noone on your side that is already allied with me? Isn’t it weird that I know of all your plans?

After that she smiled and turned around to leave.

- Well then boys, I’ll see you again soon. Good luck. You’ll need it.