Thoughts on Cubhood:
Being born into the first generation of lions ever to exist in their species, Nehemiah missed out on the joys of cubhood. Like all others from the first generation, he was created by an unknown entity. It is not known what exactly formed him and even in the current age, 3000 years later, their creation is a mystery. Regardless, Nehemiah does feel he missed out on an important part of life. Being created directly into adulthood has its drawbacks. Nehemiah never experienced the easy life as a cub, received years of dedicated training and guidance by cub trainers, or even have parents of his own. He would have given anything to have what cubs today have - specifically parents. Nehemiah believes that if he had parental role models growing up he may have not been so naive in his thinking and he may not have relented so easily when others of higher standing or build ordered him around. Having no examples to build off of in his time, it was simply kill or be killed. With no examples to learn from, Nehemiah gave in easy when others who were deemed better off than himself gave direction - specifically Merikh. In retrospect, Nehemiah tends to envy these cubs and how easy they have it early on in their own lives.
If he were to have cubs of his own one day, Nehemiah would look back on his life, parentless with no real indication of who or what his creators are, and give them everything he did not have himself - Guidance, patience, love, and positive role models.
Being born into the first generation of lions ever to exist in their species, Nehemiah missed out on the joys of cubhood. Like all others from the first generation, he was created by an unknown entity. It is not known what exactly formed him and even in the current age, 3000 years later, their creation is a mystery. Regardless, Nehemiah does feel he missed out on an important part of life. Being created directly into adulthood has its drawbacks. Nehemiah never experienced the easy life as a cub, received years of dedicated training and guidance by cub trainers, or even have parents of his own. He would have given anything to have what cubs today have - specifically parents. Nehemiah believes that if he had parental role models growing up he may have not been so naive in his thinking and he may not have relented so easily when others of higher standing or build ordered him around. Having no examples to build off of in his time, it was simply kill or be killed. With no examples to learn from, Nehemiah gave in easy when others who were deemed better off than himself gave direction - specifically Merikh. In retrospect, Nehemiah tends to envy these cubs and how easy they have it early on in their own lives.
If he were to have cubs of his own one day, Nehemiah would look back on his life, parentless with no real indication of who or what his creators are, and give them everything he did not have himself - Guidance, patience, love, and positive role models.
Thoughts On The Former Pride:
"The cause - that was something I believed in with all of my heart. To this day, I would still say I agree with their way of thinking. Leaders should not be chosen based on an element, but rather their other qualities that prove they deserve the position. However, the methods they choose to use is something I will condemn until my dying breath. I did not think that I was strong enough back then to do anything about it, but I will never make that same mistake twice. Do I approve of everything they did - no, in fact I despise it. However, their believes are something that they - we - were entitled to. Will that make up for what was done… not in the least." |
Thoughts On The Former Rebellion:
"Looking back on it now, I was fed lies and stories about how those in the rebellion were nothing more than fools. However, deep in my heart I knew they were just like us. They were fighting for a cause they believed in. They were fighting for their lives. I do not think ill of any of them, for at one point I may have even called them friends. I wish I could go back and make amends and ask each and every one of them for forgiveness. None of them deserved the horror that Merikh and the rest of us put them through. Not seeing it then, that is something I will forever regret." |
Thoughts On The Current Pride:
"The Pride in this time is significantly different from that in ours. In our time, we were nothing but murderers and killers and it seemed there were very few good souls on our side. This Pride, however, it no such thing. Which makes sense, considering they are descended from the rebels in our time. Though I do not consider myself one of them yet, I feel safe and welcomed by most. It is comforting to know that even after all we have done, Ethereal has given us a chance at a new and better life. A chance at forgiveness… that is not something I will forget. So, though I do not align myself with anyone, I choose of my own free will to help out the Pride in any way they have need of me. " |
Thoughts On The Current Rebellion:
"I do not know much about the current rebellion or the reasonings behind their decision to fight. I do not care, either. I take no stance in this war. However, seeing the parallels in this time to that of mine, I know the hurt they are inflicting on those here in the Pride. Just as Merikh and our forces did thousands of years ago, they are bringing terror and pain to an otherwise peaceful planet. I will not support them in what they do, but I wish to understand why they do it. Most of all, I wish to understand why my beloved Carys choose to join them." |
Relationships:
NARANDA's Istas:
Nehemiah met this nomad lioness while out searching in the Unknown Lands for his former lover. Nehemiah was wandering alone when he stumbled upon Istas searching for herbs to heal her adoptive brother, who had been injured, and Nehemiah, a former head healer, was quick to offer his assistance and come to their aid. Upon idle chatter, Nehemiah discovered the two of them were very much alike - both disliked the war and shared no opinion on either side, both preferred to live the life of a nomad, and both were soft-spoken individuals. So, as Nehemiah often felt quite alone in this "new" world, he would often seek out Istas on his travels for companionship. He wished to learn all he could of this world and was interested to hear it from a nomad's views, since all opinions since were mostly given by the Pride. Istas was, in fact, the only lioness he had developed romantic feelings for outside of his former lover, the dream lioness had betrayed him in current time. Nehemiah still feels it hard to move on, but he would wish to go through it with Istas, if she would have him. Though not a fighter, he would lay his life on the line for her if it would come to that. Nehemiah feels blessed to have been given a second chance on Lochren to make up for his misdoings, and to be given a second chance at love is something he feels he does not yet deserve. Inside, he has a lot he feels he must make up for, and perhaps through Istas, he can move on and have a new life - one he refuses to lose to bad decisions. Perhaps, he has come to realize his last relationship was nothing but an illusion - he didn't know his lover at all nor understood her true intentions. Now, Nehemiah has been given something real and he will not throw it away for anyone - not even Carys, should she choose to intervene with his new relationship. Little by little, Nehemiah is letting go to the grip she had on him and has found a new purpose in Istas - through her, he can let go of the past and move on to a brighter future.
Nehemiah met this nomad lioness while out searching in the Unknown Lands for his former lover. Nehemiah was wandering alone when he stumbled upon Istas searching for herbs to heal her adoptive brother, who had been injured, and Nehemiah, a former head healer, was quick to offer his assistance and come to their aid. Upon idle chatter, Nehemiah discovered the two of them were very much alike - both disliked the war and shared no opinion on either side, both preferred to live the life of a nomad, and both were soft-spoken individuals. So, as Nehemiah often felt quite alone in this "new" world, he would often seek out Istas on his travels for companionship. He wished to learn all he could of this world and was interested to hear it from a nomad's views, since all opinions since were mostly given by the Pride. Istas was, in fact, the only lioness he had developed romantic feelings for outside of his former lover, the dream lioness had betrayed him in current time. Nehemiah still feels it hard to move on, but he would wish to go through it with Istas, if she would have him. Though not a fighter, he would lay his life on the line for her if it would come to that. Nehemiah feels blessed to have been given a second chance on Lochren to make up for his misdoings, and to be given a second chance at love is something he feels he does not yet deserve. Inside, he has a lot he feels he must make up for, and perhaps through Istas, he can move on and have a new life - one he refuses to lose to bad decisions. Perhaps, he has come to realize his last relationship was nothing but an illusion - he didn't know his lover at all nor understood her true intentions. Now, Nehemiah has been given something real and he will not throw it away for anyone - not even Carys, should she choose to intervene with his new relationship. Little by little, Nehemiah is letting go to the grip she had on him and has found a new purpose in Istas - through her, he can let go of the past and move on to a brighter future.
The Dream Lionesses:
Nehemiah feels a great amount of guilt for the deaths of the dream lionesses, especially the one who he was involved with at the time. This guilt weighs heavily on his conscious and when he comes into contact with one of the lionesses, Nehemiah can go into a depressed state. He does not want to become close to them out of fear of rejection. Nehemiah knows deep in his heart that, perhaps if he had said something many years ago, their lives may not have been taken. After seeing his former lover on the side of Arknon when he arrived on the home planet, Nehemiah has been confused of his and her loyalties. His desire to return to her and ask for forgiveness trumps all feelings of hatred he has for her and her choices. It is yet to be seen if he will be accepted by those in the pride. |
Fellow Earth Lions: Thought he grew up with these lions and shares this experience of time travel with them, Nehemiah does not associate with all of them. For those who repented for their actions and want to strive for a better life, Nehemiah welcomes them with open arms. For those who have chosen to follow Arknon, Nehemiah would rather stay away as to not be tempted to change sides again - he does not want to make the same mistake twice. And to those like him who do not know exactly where the belong yet, Nehemiah hopes they can continue on this journey together and help each other find their place. |
The Lake Cubs:
Like the dream lionesses, Nehemiah feels horrible for the fate these cubs have endured. Though, Nehemiah wishes to help them as much as he can. Seeing as he knew some of them in their previous life, if they ever came seeking help and knowledge of the life they used to have, he would offer it without question. Nehemiah feels that helping them in their new lives may erase some of the guilt he carries on his conscious, and wishes them nothing but the best with their new lives in this world. |
Squirrelspirit's Eloin
Nehemiah knows Eloin as Liath's sister. As the two girls are inseparable, Nehemiah has come to know her as deeply as he has his sister. The girl has a better viewpoint on the pride than her twin, however, and Nehemiah uses her to learn more of their inner workings and dealings. He seeks comfort in her timid and calm nature as a welcome contrast to her sister's boisterous one. Eloin has made Nehemiah feel welcome as a nomad on the home planet and welcomed him into their small pride with open arms. |
My Oleander
Coming into this new LOC world and seeing a lion such as Oleander truly threw Nehemiah for a loop. Having never seen a lion of his stature and capabilities before, Nehemiah was both intrigued and a little disturbed by this lion at first. The male is the first of his kind and has a job that Nehemiah does not trust - a mole. Although he knows the job is necessary to gain intel on the enemy, the powers and abilities that Oleander has frightens Nehemiah. He keeps his distance when he can, even though Nehemiah knows the lion has a nice disposition, because Oleander's job is all about information. Since Nehemiah is not sure of his place yet in the Pride, he does not want any information getting out to the others that he does not want them to know. Nehemiah is friendly to the male when they do meet but does not make a point to go around him often. Oleander, in turn, has made it one of his missions to gain as much information on Nehemiah as he can for the Pride, just as he does with all of the lions who came through the arch. Nehemiah has a reason to be worried. |
My Liath: While the two may not get along on the surface, Liath holds qualities that Nehemiah wishes he had in himself. He has used this lioness, even such a young one, as a roll model in his new life that Nehemiah has set up for himself. He strives to learn how Liath can be so opinionated and choose her own path, as he has always done what others say is best. Through their short time together, Nehemiah has grown personally. He is continually working on not letting others sway his opinions and through that hopefully make a new and better life for himself in this new world. The two often butt heads but Nehemiah feels welcomed in their small group of nomads and considers them to be a sort of family to him whenever he is in need of companionship. Nehemiah, too, also hopes to teach the young lioness a thing or two about patience. |
Glomp's Despoina
Nehemiah does not come across Despoina too much in his travels and she in turn does not make an effort to get close to him. Although the lioness is driven by a natural curiosity she tends to keep her distance, most likely feeding off of the wary feelings her mate Malakye has towards the new lion. Still, she finds him interesting and that he is truly a nice lion willing to change for the better. Nehemiah is wondered by her abilities over color, as that power was not present in his day and time, and could sit for hours watching her use her powers to paint wonderful scenes. Nehemiah hopes that if he lingers longer in the pride he could learn more of her and the other lions who came with her to the LOC world. |
My Yunus:
Being considered a special "event" lion got under Nehemiah's skin in his early days back on the home planet. Thus, Nehemiah sought out a few of these other special lions to learn more about them. Not only had there been nothing like that in his time, and he was definitely curious, but Nehemiah also was seeking some sort of familiarity with these lions. Despite being turned off by Yunus's intimidating experience, Nehemiah found him fascinating to be around. Learning of the Blood Moon was interesting for Nehemiah and the two quickly bonded over their unusual comings into this world. When Yunus is scouting out in the lands beyond the pride the two can often meet and offer help to one another. |
Glomp's Aeolius
Nehemiah has a particular affection for this lion. Aeolius brings him back to the days before, when Nehemiah was the Head Healer, guiding other below him to their highest potential. Aeolius looks up to Nehemiah and sees his leadership and wisdom as something the others should respect and listen to. Because Aeolius seems to be impressed in Nehemiah's control over his elements, Nehemiah in turn drives himself to teach the young lion anything he can. Having a pupil to devote his time to when Nehemiah is in the pride gives the old lion a reprieve from the negative emotions he is often faced with - making the outlet very much appreciated. The relationship is not without quarrel, however, as Aeolius often becomes frustrated with Nehemiah's loyalty and counters the older lion on many occasions. Nehemiah wishes to use this young lion as an example, as well, for Aeolius thinks for himself and makes Nehemiah want do the same. Regardless, the two are both positive influences for each other. |
My Taranis: Nehemiah has become gradually closer to Taranis throughout his time back on the home planet. Since Nehemiah travels quite frequently into the unknown lands and nomad lands he seeks out guidance from Taranis on the terrain in the area and lions he may come into contact with or even avoid. At first their relationship was strictly business - Taranis told him only what he wished to know and no more. It was not until Nehemiah discovered Taranis had adopted a lake cub as his sister that Nehemiah wanted to draw closer. His relationship with Marella forced him to grow closer to Taranis and he would even consider the large male an ally. When Nehemiah returns to the pride lands he is frequently seen with the two, sharing stories with Taranis of things he learned while on his travels. |
Squirrelspirit's Marella
Marella is one of the few lake cubs Nehemiah has come into contact with and he is happy to call a friend. Although the guilt he had over her death in her former life still haunts him, the cub did not let it get in the way of her curiosity towards him. Although Nehemiah knows about her previous life and what truly happened to her, her free sprit and desire to remain a cub has him torn on if he should bring up the subject. Marella's innocence tugs on his heart strings and he does not want to taint that. He enjoys spending time with her when he comes to the Pride, usually spending time together talking about his time on Earth and what it was like before its de |
starry-knight's Valkyrie
Although the pride judge was hesitant to welcome Nehemiah, eventually Valkyrie was able to see the good inside of Nehemiah's heart. She considered him to be a lion in the wrong place at the wrong time, caught between two sides in a war he did not want to be apart of. Seeing his desire to change and right the actions of the past, Valkyrie became very open and welcoming to the new male. Nehemiah comes around her often when visiting the pride because she is one of the few who give him unconditional support and help him become up to date with the events it the world. |
Squirrelspirit's Artemis
Artemis immediately distrusted Nehemiah the moment he made his presence known to the Pride. Her questions to him were thrown in onslaughts - You are from the past? Whose side were you on? Are you true to the pride or the rebels? Why did you not act on your gut feelings? Why did you serve Merikh. Being judged by Valkyrie was enough but Artemis was an entirely knew being. Her desire to protect her family and grandcubs alike, Nehemiah was put on her watch list. Nehemiah feels uneasy around her but constantly tries to prove himself to be a better lion than he once was - if not to himself, then definitely to her. She drives his desire to change if only to earn her respect and kindness. |
starry-knight's Sybel
Even though Nehemiah does not come into contact with Sybel often, he would rather it remain as little as possible. As one of the lake cubs murdered in the time of Nehemiah, Sybel holds a deep grudge towards the lion. Recognizing his face immediately as one of the lions present during the lake cub massacre Sybel was able to piece it together with his own death. Once of violence and revenge, anger filled Sybel's heart and he will not stop until Nehemiah has paid for his sins. Even though he did not directly play a part in the deaths, Nehemiah refused to do anything to stop it. The two have a bitter misunderstanding between them and Nehemiah is not sure if he will make it past the other male alive. |
Short Story : It Was Only A Dream
Nehemiah tossed and turned in his sleep, the unrest that scratched and tore at his soul growing strong and stronger each day. With the unrest in the pride gaining in its power as the days went by, the male lion had been having difficulty getting any rest as of late. Merikh had to tell him, again and again, that it would pass. They would come out on the winning end of this war, he promised, and diligently Nehemiah believed him and pushed his worry aside. Yet, the worry came back to bite him in the end - each and every night.
In this dream, or rather a sweet nightmare, Nehemiah wandered alone in the darkness of night. Morning had not yet broken over the horizon but the area was cast in an eerie glow illuminated by nothing more than the stars above. With each loud thud made by the male's enormous paws, a cracking and crumbling could be heard beneath them. It had not occurred to him until now. Nehemiah looked down below, lifting one limb gently to find the source of the sound. In the shadow of his front paw, obscured the substance, whatever it was, and moved his head closer for a better look.
The gray rock mixed with a strange black gooey substance coated something in the ground. Wafting a gentle breeze in the air with his powers, Nehemiah cleared the vile material from around the object. His heart dropped in his chest at the recognition of what exactly it was that he had been walking on.
Bones.
Bones of all shapes in sizes from each and every part of the body emerged beneath him. The gooey black substance was not black at all - it was blood. Nehemiah stepped back, shaking the bones from his feet. The remnants of a great battle lie in front of him. As if materializing in thin air, the bones that had once been lions, comrades and enemies, began to show as still bodies rather than remains.
"This isn't real… This is just a dream…" he stuttered, shutting his eyes in hopes that he would reawaken in the normal world. Opening them again was a mistake. The bodies of those he knew appeared before him. To the left, pupils he had helped train: the lioness whom had always feared her abilities of life but who he had taught to bring life back to others, the male still always flirting with the lions he saves on the battlefield, his friend a lioness so sweet and tender she would not hurt a living soul who he shared his heartaches with. All three scattered and broken beside him. To the right, faces he knew to be from the rebellion, those who opposed his leader Merikh, were just as bad.
"Why is this happening to me… Seeing this in the waking world is horror enough. Why does it have to haunt my dreams as well?" he cried, almost pleadingly, hoping whatever was causing this would hear him and allow him to wake up.
"Are you alright Nehemiah?" a soft voice called out to him from the darkness. It was familiar, melodic, but held an unusual distant dreamlike tone in her words. "Carys?" Nehemiah asked, looking around him for the one who could put an end to this nightmare. Behind him, a opaque blue-white figure appeared from nothing, entering herself into his dream. "I sensed your terror in the night. What is troubling you so?" the dream lioness asked before she herself looked around at the scene. Nehemiah furrowed his brows in frustration, the hurt he was feeling overpowering any and all politeness he usually holds. "What is troubling me? Do you not see? My friends and followers alike battered and torn around me? The rebels? Even they do not deserve this!" Nehemiah cried, shaking his head.
"Oh? This?" Carys said calmly, giving a flick of her tail. The tongs of her tail glowed with a beautiful light, using her powers over dreams to alter the nightmare around them. Bodies faded, bones disappeared, and the horror of the battle gone wrong was transformed into a perfect reflection of the true world of the home planet. The sky brightened into a stunning show of pink and blue with twinkling stars that seemed brighter than any he had ever seen. Rocks and formations formed around Nehemiah and a small stream began to flow around him, washing away the gooey muck and grime.
Nehemiah looked around him, bewildered, and released a breath he did not know he was holding. "I am the one who is supposed to steal your breath away Nehem, not you yourself." Carys chuckled, walking over to him with a ghostly grin. "I did not realize the power you wielded, Carys. You have never entered my dreams before." Nehemiah said quietly, still gazing at the dramatic change in scenery.
"Hehe, oh Nehem, you are always so focused on the task at hand. Can't you just enjoy the dream with me?" she retorted, patting him playfully with the end of her tail. Nehemiah snapped out of his daze and looked at her with a loving gaze. "Now that you have driven out the nightmare, I would love nothing more. " Carys winked approvingly before standing and walking off into the distance, her dream form glittering like a thousand of sparkling diamonds.
"So, you never answered my question. What is troubling you Nehemiah?" Carys asked with genuine concern in her voice. Nehemiah looked over in a state of confusion, unsure why she used his full name. Carys never used his full name. "I did answer your question. The bodies. The death. The blood and bones. Those were the bodies of my friends and enemies alike. It was horrible…" he answered, his deep voice ending with a hushed tone.
"No no. The dream is just that Nehem - a dream. It is nothing more than a reflection of your inner feelings. It is what caused the nightmare that I am concerned with. I care for you Nehem… I don't wish to see you like this…" the dream lioness stopped, sitting before the river she had created, gazing down to her own reflection. The male joined her, sitting beside her to stare at his own. He looked warn and tired. His mane was shaggy and unkept unlike its usually silkiness. He had blood smeared on his cheek but somehow he knew it was not his blood, but rather the blood of one he was trying to save. He failed.
"Merikh says the war will only go on from here. Until his side comes out winning, it wont stop. Either we win, or we die." Nehemiah began sadly, leaning into her touch. "He says the rebels are defilers and traitors who follow blindly to someone based on their element, not their true strength."
Carys snorted and rolled her eyes. "Are you sure it is they who follow blindly? Perhaps you should take a better look at your reflection." she pointed out. Nehemiah nodded, knowing what she meant. "He is right… it is his methods I do not agree with Carys. I don't want to see anyone else die but I am powerless to do anything."
"You are an idiot to think you are powerless Nehemiah. There is a choice, there is always a choice, you just have to be brave enough to make it. I know you Nehem - you are a wonderful leader and guider and teacher, but when someone stronger or higher up comes along you abandon all that you are because you think you are not good enough. I am telling you - you are better than that. "
"At least someone thinks so." Nehemiah sighed, slapping his paw in the water to blur his face. "I will always think so." Carys replied quietly, brushing her head under his chin. Suddenly the dream changed. Nehemiah's featured were altered from the disheveled look he was previously and into the stunning form he wore in the real world. The sky exploded into shades of pink and red, echoing the feeling the two lions held at that very moment.
"Don't worry Nehem, I will always look after you. No matter what, everything I do is to keep you safe."
Nehemiah looked down to her, amazed. He did feel let down though - it should be his job to keep her safe. But even if he thought that, Nehemiah knew she would always be stronger than he ever was. Carys was a free thinker, a doer not a giver. She looked down on no one but up to no one either. A forger of her own path who would do what she thought was right regardless of the choices of others. Well, what could he say - opposites attract.
The two lay there together in the perfectness that was this new dream and did nothing more than bask in each other's company. Minutes turned into hours, or so it seemed in this otherworldly place. Nehemiah did not want it to come to an end. He knew in his heart that it would, though, and the two would have to return to being nothing more than acquaintances in the real world. "You know, Merikh will never allow this - Us. The others already distrust Lazarus for his affection with one of your kind. I do not want them to tear us apart. I care for you too much to let that happen Carys."
"I know Nehem… that this cannot be, at least in front of your precious Pride. And yet still, anything can happen in one's dreams. Nothing is standing in the way here." Carys pointed out. Nehemiah thought and truly it was a wonderful idea. Who would know what happened in his dreams? It may be the only way the two of them could be together. "One day it will no longer have to be kept secret." he countered gently, sitting his chin on her paws. "One day… though now, Nehem, it is time for you to wake up."
Nehemiah woke abruptly, breathing heavily and taking a time to come to his senses. With wide eyes, he remember the horrors of the nightmare before they were replaced with the gentle dream Carys had created. The soft light of the morning worked its way slowly into his small excuse for a den, signaling it was time to start the days adventures. Nehemiah longed to curl back up and return to his time with Carys - time that they would not be allowed to share in the real world. Not without consequences, anyway.
He picked himself up, dusted himself off, and exited his home to meet with the other lions in Merikh's group. The air elemental himself was present that day, going over strategies and ideas with the other fighters. A battle would be happening soon, one he claimed would shift the war in ways unimaginable. It would create a clear line between the pride and rebels - no one would be left on middle ground anymore. Yet Nehemiah had no interest in the talks today. His mind kept drifting to the dream - the nightmare as well - but mostly to Carys. It was all he could do to try and stop daydreaming and at least attempt to pay attention. Thankfully, the meeting was drawing to a close and he would be sent to heal those still injured in battle.
As Neheimah rose to start the duties of the day, the group of dream lionesses made their way across his path. The other's he was with narrowed their eyes and seemed to become visibly agitated. Nehemiah, however, had his eyes fixed on one thing and one this only - Carys. She looked even more beautiful in her true form than she did in the dream and had captivated him so much that he did not know if he even wanted do anything else but stare. But someone had noticed his attention.
"Stay away from those dream lionesses Nehemiah. Nothing but trouble. They will prove difficult for us later… Better to keep your ties to a minimum. Don't want to to feel any loss when their time comes…" Merikh sneered, turning away in disgust.
Nehemiah turned back to Carys who still wore the sly smirk on her face. She trotted off with the other lionesses in her group, flicking her tail seductively.
Nehemiah could not wait to go to sleep that night. In the dreams, they could always be together. No fears. No rules. No one but them and the connection they had with one another.
But alas, it was all just a dream.
Nehemiah tossed and turned in his sleep, the unrest that scratched and tore at his soul growing strong and stronger each day. With the unrest in the pride gaining in its power as the days went by, the male lion had been having difficulty getting any rest as of late. Merikh had to tell him, again and again, that it would pass. They would come out on the winning end of this war, he promised, and diligently Nehemiah believed him and pushed his worry aside. Yet, the worry came back to bite him in the end - each and every night.
In this dream, or rather a sweet nightmare, Nehemiah wandered alone in the darkness of night. Morning had not yet broken over the horizon but the area was cast in an eerie glow illuminated by nothing more than the stars above. With each loud thud made by the male's enormous paws, a cracking and crumbling could be heard beneath them. It had not occurred to him until now. Nehemiah looked down below, lifting one limb gently to find the source of the sound. In the shadow of his front paw, obscured the substance, whatever it was, and moved his head closer for a better look.
The gray rock mixed with a strange black gooey substance coated something in the ground. Wafting a gentle breeze in the air with his powers, Nehemiah cleared the vile material from around the object. His heart dropped in his chest at the recognition of what exactly it was that he had been walking on.
Bones.
Bones of all shapes in sizes from each and every part of the body emerged beneath him. The gooey black substance was not black at all - it was blood. Nehemiah stepped back, shaking the bones from his feet. The remnants of a great battle lie in front of him. As if materializing in thin air, the bones that had once been lions, comrades and enemies, began to show as still bodies rather than remains.
"This isn't real… This is just a dream…" he stuttered, shutting his eyes in hopes that he would reawaken in the normal world. Opening them again was a mistake. The bodies of those he knew appeared before him. To the left, pupils he had helped train: the lioness whom had always feared her abilities of life but who he had taught to bring life back to others, the male still always flirting with the lions he saves on the battlefield, his friend a lioness so sweet and tender she would not hurt a living soul who he shared his heartaches with. All three scattered and broken beside him. To the right, faces he knew to be from the rebellion, those who opposed his leader Merikh, were just as bad.
"Why is this happening to me… Seeing this in the waking world is horror enough. Why does it have to haunt my dreams as well?" he cried, almost pleadingly, hoping whatever was causing this would hear him and allow him to wake up.
"Are you alright Nehemiah?" a soft voice called out to him from the darkness. It was familiar, melodic, but held an unusual distant dreamlike tone in her words. "Carys?" Nehemiah asked, looking around him for the one who could put an end to this nightmare. Behind him, a opaque blue-white figure appeared from nothing, entering herself into his dream. "I sensed your terror in the night. What is troubling you so?" the dream lioness asked before she herself looked around at the scene. Nehemiah furrowed his brows in frustration, the hurt he was feeling overpowering any and all politeness he usually holds. "What is troubling me? Do you not see? My friends and followers alike battered and torn around me? The rebels? Even they do not deserve this!" Nehemiah cried, shaking his head.
"Oh? This?" Carys said calmly, giving a flick of her tail. The tongs of her tail glowed with a beautiful light, using her powers over dreams to alter the nightmare around them. Bodies faded, bones disappeared, and the horror of the battle gone wrong was transformed into a perfect reflection of the true world of the home planet. The sky brightened into a stunning show of pink and blue with twinkling stars that seemed brighter than any he had ever seen. Rocks and formations formed around Nehemiah and a small stream began to flow around him, washing away the gooey muck and grime.
Nehemiah looked around him, bewildered, and released a breath he did not know he was holding. "I am the one who is supposed to steal your breath away Nehem, not you yourself." Carys chuckled, walking over to him with a ghostly grin. "I did not realize the power you wielded, Carys. You have never entered my dreams before." Nehemiah said quietly, still gazing at the dramatic change in scenery.
"Hehe, oh Nehem, you are always so focused on the task at hand. Can't you just enjoy the dream with me?" she retorted, patting him playfully with the end of her tail. Nehemiah snapped out of his daze and looked at her with a loving gaze. "Now that you have driven out the nightmare, I would love nothing more. " Carys winked approvingly before standing and walking off into the distance, her dream form glittering like a thousand of sparkling diamonds.
"So, you never answered my question. What is troubling you Nehemiah?" Carys asked with genuine concern in her voice. Nehemiah looked over in a state of confusion, unsure why she used his full name. Carys never used his full name. "I did answer your question. The bodies. The death. The blood and bones. Those were the bodies of my friends and enemies alike. It was horrible…" he answered, his deep voice ending with a hushed tone.
"No no. The dream is just that Nehem - a dream. It is nothing more than a reflection of your inner feelings. It is what caused the nightmare that I am concerned with. I care for you Nehem… I don't wish to see you like this…" the dream lioness stopped, sitting before the river she had created, gazing down to her own reflection. The male joined her, sitting beside her to stare at his own. He looked warn and tired. His mane was shaggy and unkept unlike its usually silkiness. He had blood smeared on his cheek but somehow he knew it was not his blood, but rather the blood of one he was trying to save. He failed.
"Merikh says the war will only go on from here. Until his side comes out winning, it wont stop. Either we win, or we die." Nehemiah began sadly, leaning into her touch. "He says the rebels are defilers and traitors who follow blindly to someone based on their element, not their true strength."
Carys snorted and rolled her eyes. "Are you sure it is they who follow blindly? Perhaps you should take a better look at your reflection." she pointed out. Nehemiah nodded, knowing what she meant. "He is right… it is his methods I do not agree with Carys. I don't want to see anyone else die but I am powerless to do anything."
"You are an idiot to think you are powerless Nehemiah. There is a choice, there is always a choice, you just have to be brave enough to make it. I know you Nehem - you are a wonderful leader and guider and teacher, but when someone stronger or higher up comes along you abandon all that you are because you think you are not good enough. I am telling you - you are better than that. "
"At least someone thinks so." Nehemiah sighed, slapping his paw in the water to blur his face. "I will always think so." Carys replied quietly, brushing her head under his chin. Suddenly the dream changed. Nehemiah's featured were altered from the disheveled look he was previously and into the stunning form he wore in the real world. The sky exploded into shades of pink and red, echoing the feeling the two lions held at that very moment.
"Don't worry Nehem, I will always look after you. No matter what, everything I do is to keep you safe."
Nehemiah looked down to her, amazed. He did feel let down though - it should be his job to keep her safe. But even if he thought that, Nehemiah knew she would always be stronger than he ever was. Carys was a free thinker, a doer not a giver. She looked down on no one but up to no one either. A forger of her own path who would do what she thought was right regardless of the choices of others. Well, what could he say - opposites attract.
The two lay there together in the perfectness that was this new dream and did nothing more than bask in each other's company. Minutes turned into hours, or so it seemed in this otherworldly place. Nehemiah did not want it to come to an end. He knew in his heart that it would, though, and the two would have to return to being nothing more than acquaintances in the real world. "You know, Merikh will never allow this - Us. The others already distrust Lazarus for his affection with one of your kind. I do not want them to tear us apart. I care for you too much to let that happen Carys."
"I know Nehem… that this cannot be, at least in front of your precious Pride. And yet still, anything can happen in one's dreams. Nothing is standing in the way here." Carys pointed out. Nehemiah thought and truly it was a wonderful idea. Who would know what happened in his dreams? It may be the only way the two of them could be together. "One day it will no longer have to be kept secret." he countered gently, sitting his chin on her paws. "One day… though now, Nehem, it is time for you to wake up."
Nehemiah woke abruptly, breathing heavily and taking a time to come to his senses. With wide eyes, he remember the horrors of the nightmare before they were replaced with the gentle dream Carys had created. The soft light of the morning worked its way slowly into his small excuse for a den, signaling it was time to start the days adventures. Nehemiah longed to curl back up and return to his time with Carys - time that they would not be allowed to share in the real world. Not without consequences, anyway.
He picked himself up, dusted himself off, and exited his home to meet with the other lions in Merikh's group. The air elemental himself was present that day, going over strategies and ideas with the other fighters. A battle would be happening soon, one he claimed would shift the war in ways unimaginable. It would create a clear line between the pride and rebels - no one would be left on middle ground anymore. Yet Nehemiah had no interest in the talks today. His mind kept drifting to the dream - the nightmare as well - but mostly to Carys. It was all he could do to try and stop daydreaming and at least attempt to pay attention. Thankfully, the meeting was drawing to a close and he would be sent to heal those still injured in battle.
As Neheimah rose to start the duties of the day, the group of dream lionesses made their way across his path. The other's he was with narrowed their eyes and seemed to become visibly agitated. Nehemiah, however, had his eyes fixed on one thing and one this only - Carys. She looked even more beautiful in her true form than she did in the dream and had captivated him so much that he did not know if he even wanted do anything else but stare. But someone had noticed his attention.
"Stay away from those dream lionesses Nehemiah. Nothing but trouble. They will prove difficult for us later… Better to keep your ties to a minimum. Don't want to to feel any loss when their time comes…" Merikh sneered, turning away in disgust.
Nehemiah turned back to Carys who still wore the sly smirk on her face. She trotted off with the other lionesses in her group, flicking her tail seductively.
Nehemiah could not wait to go to sleep that night. In the dreams, they could always be together. No fears. No rules. No one but them and the connection they had with one another.
But alas, it was all just a dream.