Lithium's Claiming - South Territory

"A big cat that could wipe out an adult horse because of it's teeth and claws. Especially if you're alone, then they really want to get you. But I don't want to scare you, so most of them aren't too big." Aurora didn't need Spirit to get more upset.

Spirit's curiosity rose about these 'Cougars'. "Are they fast? What do they look like? Are they spotted?"she neighed prodding Aurora for more answers.

Aurora's plan backfired. She had wanted Spirit to be afraid of cougars so she would live with them. "Yes, actually they are fast. They aren't spotted but they have long, sharp claws they use. It can slice right through bark." She turned to Lithium for support.

"Really! Thats cool!"Spirit said,but it never occurred to her that it would attack and kill her."Can we go see one?" she asked pleadingly. She would love to see one of those cats. They must be so strong and agile.

"Well..." Aurora laughed playfully and looked at Spirit. "Unless you don't mind being turned into a foal sandwich for a hungry cougar, then let's go!"

"Huh?"she asked suddenly scared. She flattened her ears against her head."But dont they eat grass? You said they could break through bark!"

Lithium backed a step, watching them.

Aurora shook her head, chuckling. "No, I meant they're strong. They eat meat. Us." She shuddered at the thought and changed to subject quickly. "So which direction is home?"

Lithium snorted and walked away a bit, he wouldnt leave his new home, he looked around, holding his head up proudly.

Aurora followed Lithium and laughed. "I don't know if you understood me correctly," she said, "But I was talking to you, silly!" She swished her tail and looked behind for Spirit, the closest thing she had to her friend. "You comin'?"

Spirit was confused about Lithium's headstrong and dominate ways,but she wouldnt understand till she was older she guessed. A adult thing she supposed.

Aurora smiled at Spirit. "So will you stay with us?" She asked again. She couldn't let Spirit roam around all alone with predators lurking in every waking shadow. What if she lost her only connection to her friend? Maybe, just maybe, they could even find Nessie.

"Of course!"she cried prancing around. "I wouldnt dream of leaving here!"

Aurora nodded, "Good. I'm glad you won't." She smiled and looked over to Lithium. He was sure quiet about this whole thing.