Mizuka's Coronation

[Shomoro]

Thanks to everyone who partcipated! I know we had some trouble that wound up making it necessary to stretch the scene out over a couple of days instead of getting it done all at once, but you guys made it a wonderful scene, particularly Annie, who set most of it up and spoofed Tilyn's characters as well.

Kivuli - Cliff

You're on the other side. The tunnel which led through the western mountain led you out of the valley, and now you find yourself on a rather large ledge, which shoots out from the mountain side; a cliff. Behind you is the mountain, still towering high above you, the mighty, unreachable peak seeming to pierce the clouds. In front of you is an amazing view. For the Kivuli isn't just a valley. Before you is what is called the Kivuli western lands - a small forest fades away to open savannah plains and a long river stretches through the golden grass. The savannah seems to be endless; it reaches the horizon, and you probably figure that it continues beyond even that.

Still, taking a closer look at what's nearest, one might notice that there's a rocky path leading down to the forest below. The cliff is steep. When reaching the edge, the mountain wall beneath sharply falls straight down. Nothing to hold on to. Just bare rock, which seems to be the case with every mountain in the valley, as well. A little away from the tunnel entrance is a larger entrance, leading into a cavern, seemingly. The leonine scents are stronger here. Is this where they live? A small tree grows by the very edge of the cliff, the roots clinging desperately onto the stone. Green leaves and thin branches wave roughly in the wind, and it's surprising that the tree is still here. Yet, it seems to be a strong tree - one that won't give up. And, somehow, you know that this tree won't fall for a long while still.

The King is dead. Word went out across the lands soon after Kiet's death and Kivuli has found itself in mourning for the last few days. However, the pride cannot linger in this state of limbo for too long. They need a King. And so it only follows that the coronation of Kiet's heir arrives not long after the death of white lion. Many have already gathered for the event, with others still arriving. Already settled amongst the gathering is Akase, the young lioness from Kimondo. The juvenile is excited, having never witnessed a coronation before. The girl's blue eyes sweep across the gathering, trying to determine just how many others she knows. Her gaze briefly catches that of a lioness cub across the way.. Eden, who is sitting just in front of one of the pride's huntresses, Xipil. To the back of the gathering is the white lioness Weupe who, with a small smile, vaguely recalls the coronation of Kivuli's last King, having been a child herself at the time. Yet another lioness is just arriving on the scene. Xai'li is neither a resident of the lands nor a member of the pride. New to the area, Xai' caught news of a royal coronation and, seeing as she was exploring the lands at the time, figured it would be rude of her to not attend. At the very least, she'll be able to see who the new King is and that could be useful information. She comes up the mountain path and, after a quick glance about, settles into a seated position near the back, out of the way and off to Weupe's left. As those gathered chatter softly to themselves, two lions - pale coated male and petite female - emerge from the pridal cavern. Atreyu and Khamisa, Kivuli's Prince and Princess, stand just off to the side together. Atreyu blinks out at the crowd, then back to his baby sister. "Er, Khams? Can I change my mind? I think I'd rather watch..." The gathering is growing, and Atreyu has never been the royal sort, especially the royal speech-y sort. Khamisa snorts, frowning at her brother. "No you may NOT," She informs him in a soft hiss. "You /promised/, Attie." One look at his sister's oh-so-blue eyes and Atreyu sighs. "Yeah, yeah.. promise is a promise is a whatever. I was only jokin'. I'll talk Miz' up good." He gives Khamisa a quick grin, then returns the nuzzle she offers him. Both then fall into silence as they stand there, waiting. The death of their father is heavy in both their hearts, but Khamisa vowed to herself that she would try to make this a decent coronation for Mizuka. It has only been her focus on this day and this ceremony that kept her from sinking into depression. The Princess glances skyward, noting the position of the sun. Almost time...

To those gathered and starting to gather, another form is added. To some, she may be certainly familiar, but one that hadn't been seen for almost a season. Arazia moves on steady, large feet as she makes her way up the path that she remembered from her childhood. The barbary lioness returns home, at least for the time being. Quiet, her ears are folded back as she looks among the gathered, perhaps trying to find her family among them. It's a shame that others are blocking her view of her sister. In her mouth, are a series of small sticks and flowers. Each stick seems to mimic the color of each of the flowers.
Of course, the barbary girl is not alone, either. At her side comes an unknown lion, who she seems to regard only with her eyes as she glances back towards him. 'Zia gives him a little encouraging nod, and then sets down her little bundle of flowers and twigs, not wanting to hold them for the entirity of the coronation. "This... this was my home, and my pride." She explains in a hushed voice, glancing upwards towards where she fully expects the new king.

Nearby Akase is a face seldom seen around the pridal cavern--Enzaudhi, normally too reticent to join the Kivulians at their mountain home, has come like so many others to witness the coronation today. She'd heard the news of Kiet's passing a few days ago, and, while she didn't know the male--at all, really--she finds it quite depressing to think about Kings dying. It reminds her of Demissle's death, although from what she heard Kiet succumbed to illness, not some violent takeover. Still, the lioness' expression is grave as she settles herself close to Akase, her eyes on the cave's mouth--and Atreyu and Khamisa as they emerge from it. -- Mizuka has barely been seen since Kiet died; he's never been a terribly public person, and with the shock of what happened hitting him so hard, he's been even less so. The only people who he's wanted to see have been his family, and Kisehemu; he knows full well that he probably ought to be more available if he's to be King, but they're the only ones he's been able to bring himself to comfort...or in Kisehemu's case, /be/ comforted by, since the knight knew Kiet mostly on a professional level, and certainly isn't taking it as badly as the deceased King's children. Today, though--today, he can't hole up in the royal cavern with this ceremony staring him in the face, although he badly wants to. Khamisa wants to make the coronation at least somewhat enjoyable for him, he knows, but with himself and all of Kivuli in mourning the thought of going out there and trying to make some sort of uplifting speech for everybody feels empty. Still, when Kisehemu comes padding out of the cave as well--several minutes after Atreyu and Khamisa--he's followed by the heir and soon-to-be King. Mizuka needed a few moments to get himself together, but they've apparently been well-spent, because the younger lion's face is a mask of calm. Whether or not he feels that way /inside/ is uncertain, though it's doubtful he does, but he does a very good job of looking the part.

"I understand." Like a gentle wind, Ranmaru's voice filled a small corner of the area like a whisper. Well able to be heard by Arazia, but unlikely by anyone else. "Hmmm." Yes, the lion had realized that they indeed had been too late for what had been the initial reason to travel here. He seemed nervous, his eyes moving quickly in their sockets, settling his gaze on every feline and otherwise present animals for a moment, before safely returning to the sole one he knew here. Arazia. He thought of how this had been his idea to come along and let out a sigh in his mind. The scene felt a bit tense, in a depressing kind of way. And as much of an outsider he was here, it didn't strike him as odd in any kind of way. His eyes wandered off again from the red fluffy barbary, trying to seek out a place where they could sit down. His tail swung gently as he did this, yet the tip's flicking betrayed him. "I have not seen my home for years..." He wanted to continue his words, but decided to stop there and go no further on the subject of his own past. "Is there anybody you recognize?" He asked, before taking another look at the colored twigs. The lion had boggled at the colored objects for a while now, but had no clue as to their meaning. He figured he would ask later on.

A few moments after the future king emerges, a gaunt yellow figure marked with unfaded cub spots wobbles towards the opening of the cavern. Nyuki, former Lady of Kivuli, should still be in her prime, but emotional turmoil - and a recent refusal to eat - have wrenched the vitality from the simple-headed girl who Xian always called his little bumblebee. Having pulled herself away from his side to witness the coronation of her nephew, she nonetheless keeps to herself by flopping down just inside the cavern, leaning heavily against one of the walls. The look in her eyes make her seem sad and a little scared, like a lost and naive cub. Still, there is a lift in her ears that hasn't been there in a while.
Unseen by the arriving lions, a little olive-backed monkey in the cliff's one small tree watches the build-up with a bit of a pang in her heart. She can't help noticing how many fewer pride members are gathered for this coronation than for the last one - and members of the last two generations of rulers are wasting away in the royal cavern, beyond the reach of her healing magic. Even the faces she does recognise, those who were around before she left for her long journey, seem older than they should. For that matter, however, so does her own.
Collecting herself with a little breath, Tumbuiza reaches for her ceremonial concoctions and slips quietly down to the ground, landing near the prince and princess. She makes a brief circuit of the royalty, smiling to each and informally wishing them good luck for the ceremony, before returning to the shady place under the tree where she sits, waiting and preparing herself spiritually.

So. Everyone is gathered. It looks like it's time. Khamisa glances to Tumbuiza, giving the healer a smile.. and then Mizuka, giving the soon-to-be-King a small smile, and then to Atreyu. The second Prince quickly shakes his head at the petite lioness, along with a crooked smirk that seems to say, 'Hey, this was YOUR idea, sister. You can do most of the yapping!' Khamisa's eyes roll momentarily heavenwards. Oy. She shoulda known. But she grins back at Atreyu and steps forward.. though her tail flicks sharply against Atreyu's side as she goes, a silent, playful reminder to oh /Great Kings/, Atreyu, please sit up straight! You're at a /coronation/ for goodness sakes and would it /kill you/ to try looking like the royalty you are? Atreyu snorts softly in surprise, then smirks.. and continues to sit there, exactly as he was. Khamisa's gaze roams the crowd a moment, her stomach suddenly full of nervous butterflies. She's never had to address such a crowd before. But the girl has inherited every bit of natural, regal grace that made Saibh herself such an elegant Queen and it shows now as she stands before them all, posture picture perfect, head held high. The effect is regal without coming off as snobby. Deep breath, Khamisa, you can do this. "Family and friends.. today is a day to remember," She begins, gentle voice ringing out loud and clear in the afternoon air. "A day for gathering together and a day for celebration, for it isn't often that we see the coronation of a new King." She pauses, tongue washing out over the side of her muzzle briefly. "And no doubt, it is also a day for remembering. We have been in mourning, for we have lost the guiding light of our King, Kiet, who passed away not but a few days ago. I know he would wish to be here to see this day. We miss him. He was a wonderful King.. a gentle King.. and a wonderful father, mate and friend." Khamisa's voice cracks just a bit at the end, her throat becoming tight with emotion. It's so soon.. she misses her father so much. But she swallows heavily, takes several deep breaths and continues. Her brothers need her to be able to continue. "We will all mourn. But the circle of life continues ever onward. My father is gone, but he has not left us alone. He leaves behind a bit of himself in every life he touched while he ruled as Kivuli's King. And he leaves behind three children, of whom he is a part of. He continues to live in all of us. And in this moment he lives on most strongly in my brother Mizuka, his chosen heir, who today shall take his place in the circle of life as he becomes our King." And she steps aside, turning blue eyes on Mizuka. Atreyu rises and, after a roll of his shoulders and a twist of his neck in gentle stretches, he pads to his brother's right side, giving the heir a quick, carefree grin. It appears that Kivuli's more laid-back Prince will be speaking next (and maybe they should all be a little afraid because of that.. or at least because of that grin of his). But he allows a few moments for Khamisa's words to sink into the crowd.

There are times in one's life where even home feels like a foreign place. While Arazia may come from the blood of these lands, and share some ties to those who still remain here, it's an eerie feeling that wells up in her chest as she looks upwards at the rock that once stood for all she thought was pure and good in the world. She had been both in awe, and wonder of that thing when she came here with her siblings to see Kiet and Saibh take the throne. "Shh..." She murmurs to the lion at her side, remaining standing as she arcs her emerald-toned eyes towards the royal family. "I know a few. Those are the royals." She noses in their direction, her ears folded backwards as she leaves such explinations to that, quieting to listen to Khamisa's words.
Again, there is that heaviness in her chest, like a pulling of her heart downward towards the earth. She hadn't known Kiet well, but the sadness of others can sometimes seep in as if it was part of the air itself. Still, she had known loss. She had never put her own father to rest, or her brother. There is a low whimper from the fuzzy lioness, a frown on her muzzle as she lifts one reddened paw to wipe at her eyes and force a small smile. Have to be happy for the soon-to-be King. Life carries on, and they were still here to see it.
(OOC: Arazia notes, that since she's leaving... at some point after Mizuka is officially named King, Arazia will quietly present him with the flowers and sticks. She'll present herself and Ranmaru politely, and then the two will wander off a short ways, since they aren't part of the pride 'n all.)

The heir's composure has to be at least somewhat of an act, for when Tumbuiza comes over to wish them luck, the smile he returns her own with doesn't meet his eyes, and it's more strained than he'd like. He admires his sister's efforts to put a positive spin on today...but for Mizuka, at least, coming out here to stand in front of the entire pride when he'd rather be alone with his family is difficult. He hadn't expected his coronation to be like this; Kisehemu had told him, last night, about his parents' own coronation, so long ago...and the difference between the ceremony then and the one today is striking. He has no parents to make this opening speech and formally pass the crown along to him, forcing his siblings to do it instead; he has no Queen to calm him as Kiet and Saibh no doubt calmed each other during their ceremony. This is nothing like the traditional coronations he's heard about, and the thought worries him. He hadn't been concerned about his lack of--involvement--with anyone until today, as he remembers everything Kisehemu had described to him; now, recalling the way his mother and father had supported one another not only during their coronation but afterwards, it occurs to him how strange it must look for him to be standing up here alone, when the rulers who have come before him for several generations did so in pairs. For someone so traditional, Mizuka certainly is breaking a lot of traditions today. The thought almost makes him balk, but the instant his ears start to twitch back Kisehemu, situated on his left side and slightly behind him, gives him a nudge--Atreyu comes up beside him as well a minute later, as Khamisa finishes up with her speech, and for a few minutes he doesn't feel so bizarre. He has all the support he needs right here; tradition or not, a Queen couldn't possibly be as comforting as the presence of his family and close friend. He doesn't smile back at Atreyu when the other male grins at him, but the look he does offer is a grateful one; they've had their share of disagreements in the past, mostly over the way things ought to be run, but he's glad his brother is here today. His shoulder brushes Atreyu's lightly, before he dips his head, gesturing for his sibling to say what he likes before the heir's part of the speech comes. Beside him, Kisehemu is silent, but he's attentive to everything that's going on--Khamisa's voice, the crowds that have filtered in to watch the ceremony, the little subtleties in Mizuka's body language that indicate he's not as comfortable with this as he must look to everyone else. And the knight, as well, is struck by how different things are now. During the last coronation, he felt awkward, as though he was intruding just by showing up to watch the proceedings from the most unobtrusive corner he could find; now he's standing with the royal siblings as they step up to become Kivuli's next generation of leaders. It's strange to think about how drastically everything's changed for himself as well as the pride, although, ultimately, the only regret he has about all that has happened is Kiet's death.

"..." Ranmaru bowed his head as the lioness let him know to be silent, acknowledging. He had been as quiet as he could be. Perhaps she just wanted to make sure he would not speak during the coronation and be able to concentrate on the speech. He then turned his head towards the rock she had been looking at as well. He knew nothing of this rock, but for some reason he could feel something of Arazia's emotions, a tie to the past. He quickly looked at her as she mentioned the royals, and looked back up, seeking the king out of the small ammount of felines present.
He however was distracted as a lioness came out and started to speak. His entire concentration was drawn to her as she spoke of the recent events, of the family that was the Kivuli tribe. It even made /his/ heart feel a little heavy. It was not because of his own emotions towards the death and corronation, but the realization that this was one big family. As she finished her part, he noticed movement from the corner of his eyes. He followed the trail to find Arazia, wiping at her eyes Arazia. His eyes took on a sad expression, feeling for the lioness.
And even though he was not completely able to understand the feelings that this triggered for her, he did one thing which he had promised. He reached one of his left front paws towards Arazia and gently put it down on her right, gently stroking over it for a moment, he sought eye contact with her and nodded towards her. Telling her with only his eyes that he was there for her... him, the rogue that she only just met and (he asumed) barely trusted.
Ranmaru then turned his eyes back towards the scene.

Another year, another coronation, another child becoming king. This is all mused on by the gaunt figure of Camrath as he watches the ceremonies from off to the side somewhat. The knight has grown only older and sadder since the last time this ceremony was held, though this time he watches without the bitterness that swallowed him up at Kiet and Saibh's coronation. He takes a deep breath as the speeches begin, both wishing that he could be there with the royal family to speak too- and glad of the anonymity that a less obvious position grants him. A glance around reveals to him the pretty horrifying truth- he's the oldest lion here by far as best as he can tell. The knight folds his paws to watch more intently as these.. children who happen to be full grown go through the motions, and lets out a low sigh. A happy event this, though he feels the loss of Kiet just as deeply as the others- perhaps more so, as being the de-facto leader of the knights, his royal master was carried away by a foe that he was unable to even see, let alone help defend against. Kisehemu is given a look however- the lion smiles to see his one-time apprentice so grown and well formed. "Maybe it's time for the new generation to take over." He muses to himself as he settles to a different position to ease the ache in his bones. Yes.. perhaps it IS time to consider retirement. But not yet. Best to help see the new king through as best he can, to be the best knight and uncle (even if by adoption) that he can possibly be. Camrath narrows his eyes slightly. The cat, being one currently suffering from a severe case of empty-nest syndrome, mentally seizes upon the idea. He'll have to talk to the lad after the ceremony, to renew his oaths and discuss the future. But for now, he just leans back and watches some more.

Respect and warmth seep into Tumbuiza's half-smile as she leans back against the acacia trunk, listening to Khamisa. Both she and her brother were of a litter she helped to deliver, what seems like mere weeks ago and yet at the same time, forever. She was not around to witness their youth, nor to come to their father's aid in time... and though the first fact is merely sad, the second is a guilt that tugs at her heart. She came too late; she should have sensed Kivuli's need sooner. Who knows if she would even have been able to help - but the regret that she wasn't there to try is unshakeable.
Yet here they still are. Kivuli, its numbers hit but its core, its strength, still intact. A new king rising to fill the void. His family taking the place of his predecessor in making him so. Hence the admiration; for a pride that never seems to understand the concept of defeat, no matter what the trials.

[Shomoro]

Khamisa moves off to the side, out of the way of everyones view of Mizuka and Atreyu. She allows her gaze to slip over those who have gathered, some who are familiar.. others who are not. Akase. Eden. Weupe. Xipil. Xai'li. She does her best to give any who glance her way a small smile. But the lioness soon glances back to center stage as Atreyu lifts his head slightly in preparation for his part of the speech. Khamisa tried coaching him a little, giving him advice on what he might say... here's hoping he follows that advice and doesn't go off onto one of his own tangents. Atreyu gives Mizuka another smile and then speaks up, his focus on his brother, a tilt of his head given to indicate the gathering. "Look at that, Mizuka. Look how they've come to see you crowned King. And many do not know you, or do not know you well. They are trusting in the judgement of the previous King, trusting that he trained you to be the best King you can be, trusting that he did his job to make sure you were ready and that you were right for the job. And you are." And then, turning away from Mizuka to face all that have gathered, "He /is/." Spoken with strength and conviction, a small frown playing on his muzzle, as if daring anyone to challenge the decision. But his features soften again as the Prince turns back to his brother. "It should be Dad here, and Mom, saying all this stuff. Telling everyone.. telling you.. that you will be a wonderful King and how much we all trust you. I'm sorry it has to be this way instead." Atreyu grins, then, glancing briefly at the patiently waiting Khamisa. "But our sister is really pushy when she wants t'be and wouldn't take 'no for an answer. Miz'..." The Prince shifts his weight on his paws, fully facing Mizuka. "We ain't always seen eye to eye, you 'n me. But I've always known that, no matter what, you'd be a King I would support. Even now, when things aren't goin' the way they should, when you have t'deal with stuff now instead of later.. we're brothers. And I'll be the first to pledge loyal
loyalty to you. The first to praise you. The first to defend you. You'll be a great King." Atreyu shifts aside after a moment and Khamisa comes forward again, placing herself on Mizuka's other side. The lioness' features form a warm smile.. one might think that she's almost forgotten her grief, though some might be able to detect it in her eyes, should they look close enough. "A King needs to be strong and brave, just and wise, kind-hearted and loving. And you are all those things and more." She pauses only for a breath and another small smile. "You will be a great King because you have been a great brother, Mizuka. When I was ill as a cub, you were always right there, you and Attie, watching out for me. Even as we got older and I got better, always you were there. That alone would make for a good King. But you also have good instincts. You're smart. You are wise for your age and will only become moreso with age and experience. You lack his coloration, but you are so much like Father. He's trained you well, Mizuka. You will make him proud. There will be hard times. You will struggle. You will be stressed. You will fear. You will find the weight of the world pressing down on your shoulders and you will wonder if you are up to the task that has been placed upon you. But you will overcome all of it, the fear and stress and struggles. And you will not have to overcome them alone. I promise." Blue eyes of the Princess, momentarily bright with tears, seek out the copper ones of the heir. It should be the King and Queen here, now, promising guidance, wisdom and support. She can only hope that her words, and those of Atreyu, are enough to come close to make up for the absence. Khamisa gives Mizuka another small smile. She loves him so much.. she wants the best for him. And she will try her hardest to see that she helps make his reign as smooth and worry-free as possible. After a moments pause, Khammy shifts aside, glancing to Tumbuiza and giving the healer a small nod. Her turn.

And, indeed, Mizuka is a bit worried about what his brother will have to say--it shouldn't be his siblings making this speech, it ought to be his parents, who actually have experience with addressing large crowds. It /especially/ shouldn't be them putting the whole thing together a few days after Kiet's death; the grief in Khamisa's voice was evident at the end of her own speech, and while Mizuka's emotions are well-concealed, he'd like to herd the lot of them back inside or at least take it from here, get it done while he feels like he can still feign the optimism that everyone gathered is no doubt expecting to see. But no; they all have their part to play in this ceremony, and although the heir has worried endlessly about their ability to pull everything off with very little guidance, Atreyu's words rather surprise him. His brother's never been the eloquent, public-speaking sort of guy, but this, although somewhat more informal than Khamisa's contribution, has been put together very well. They're more prepared than he thought they'd be...but then, they're Kiet's children too, and they've been trained just as well as he. If nothing else, it's comforting to see that, because if they're more able to handle this than he'd first imagined, perhaps there aren't as many holes in his own education as it felt when he realised that his father was slipping away and wouldn't be able to teach him anything else. And, although he hadn't felt this would be a smiling sort of occasion--and still thinks that it's a bittersweet one at best--the corners of his mouth tilt up just slightly; it's more of an easing of tension than a real smile, but his eyes are warm as he regards Atreyu, and his sister, as well, when she speaks again. Things have been difficult for the past several months, but as much as he misses their father...he loves his siblings just as much. He's not the only one Kiet would be proud of, if he were here to witness the coronation. There are many things that he wants to say to them, but there's still more to do before his part of the ceremony even comes--and much of what he wants to say will probably wait until afterwards, anyway, when he can speak more with them personally instead of the pride in general. As Kisehemu moves aside to make room for the Princess, taking up a position nearby instead--the knight's stance is as regal as it should be for a guardian of Kivuli, such a drastic change from the last shift in leadership--Mizuka leans in to nuzzle her briefly, trying to reassure. Although they're grown now, he still feels protective of their younger sister, and he and Atreyu seem to be more composed; so, although Tumbuiza still has to do her part before he can really say anything, he tries to extend what comfort he can without interrupting things.

Rising slowly to her feet with a sombre expression on her little black face, the monkey picks up a small coconut-shell container and heads towards the heir, the gathered lions making a path for the diminutive figure. Reaching Mizuka and allowing a reassuring smile to him and his siblings, she puts the coconut down carefully and raises her hands above her head, the palms turned slightly inwards. Her chin raised slightly to the heavens, Tumbu begins a slow, soft chant in the ceremonial language, which steadily shifts in pitch until it becomes a strange and liquid song that seems to evoke images of the sky and dreams. The very keen of hearing might recognise Kiet's name among the unfamiliar words. The song changes again, becoming mightier and louder than seems possible from such a small body - then suddenly, with a clap of her hands, it ends.
There's a moment of total stillness, and Tumbuiza seeks eye contact with the king-to-be. "Mizuka, son of Kivuli," she declares with grandeur. "The spirits of those who have gone before look down upon you as you inherit the rule of Kivuli. Bear well their faith in you." Then she adds more softly, "Kiet is alive." Her voice implies absolute conviction. "Weep for his passing, then lift your shining eyes and smile again, for he is with you. Grieve that he is no longer by your side, then rejoice that you can feel him in the very breeze around you. He is well again; he is HERE."
Without breaking the link with Mizuka's eyes, the shaman reaches for her container. Holding it in her left hand, she dips the fingers of her right into it, covering them with chalky white paste of a shade very close to the former king's fur. She reaches up, standing as tall as she can, and marks the dark-furred lion with a single vertical stripe on his forehead. "Rule with your head", she recites, then marks another white stripe in his mane, "And with your heart. Do your best for Kivuli and for those who love you. The spirits approve you."

Khamisa returns the nuzzle softly, Mizuka given a long look before she then turns and watches with wide-eyed interest Tumbuiza's part of the ceremony. The Princess knew that the healer had wished to have a part, and that she had taken part in Kiet's coronation, but she hadn't been quite sure what exactly Tumbuiza would do. White-rimmed ears cup forward curiously as the monkey begins her chant. Though the words make no sense to her, just the rhythm of the chant has the lioness entranced; enough so that when Tumbuiza suddenly claps, Khamisa blinks in surprise and only the training given to her by her parents keeps her from jumping. Atreyu, too, watches, curiosity evident in his eyes and a ear twitching as he catches the mention of his father. The two siblings remains silent as Tumbuiza continues, speaking to Mizuka.. and both glance heavenward briefly when she speaks of Kiet. And before she realizes it, the monkey is done, and it's Khamisa's turn to speak once more. A quick glance to Atreyu is met with a nod by the pale coated lion, and a small smirk. Obviously he has no plans of saying anything further in way of a speech.. his part is mostly done! With a small return smile of her own, Khamisa steps forward, givign Tumbuiza a small nod of thanks before facing the crowd. This is the part she is most nervous about. How does she name her brother King? It's a large statement.. and yet, "You're the King!" sounds so dull. And Atreyu's suggestion - "Eenie meenie miney mo, Mizuka's King 'cause we said so!" - was not helpful at all. Many of Atreyu's suggestions the day Khamisa brought up the suggestion of helping with the coronation were rather.. Atreyu-ish.. so Khamisa is pleasantly surprised - and relieved! - that he has done so well during the actual ceremony. After a moment to compose herself and collect her thoughts, the Princess speaks. "Many of you perhaps remember Kiet's coronation.. maybe you remember, then, when my brother was a child. But look! The cub has become a lion, with the approval of the spirits of Kivuli's past. The circle of life has completed another cycle. The Prince has become a King." She turns, then, to face Mizuka and her actions are mirrored by Atreyu, across from Khamisa on their brother's other side, also facing Mizuka. Both Khamisa and Atreyu stand for a moment, their gazes locks on their elder brother. And their words are spoken together, their tones nothing short of respect. "Long live King Mizuka." And together they bow. With Khamisa, the movement is smooth and fluid.. elegant to the last. Atreyu, sporting an altogether different build than his petite sister, doesn't have her grace, but neither is his movement clumsy. Muscle shifts beneath a pale pelt when he moves, only hinting at whatever power the lion himself may be capable of in the protection of his siblings and pride. Behind the pair, a sudden flurry of movement from some of those gathered. If the Prince and Princess - or Lord and Lady, rather, now that their brother has been officially titled King - are bowing, then they themselves should surely be doing so. From some, such as Akase and Eden, the movement is delayed as they glance to the older ones sitting around them, then repeat their movements. Others vary, from simply a deep incline of the head from those outside the pride or the most eldely.. to a full-out dip of the entire front half of the body as others respectfully make sure that their movements are deeper than that of Lord and Lady. Atreyu and Khamisa rise after a brief moment, shifting off to one side together. "SPEEEECH!" The call breaks the silence, the voice old and rough. The owner of the voice is revealed to be none other than one of Kivuli's live-in refugees from Kimondo.. Fayola. Though many in the crowd turn to look at her after her outcry, the elder simply smirks. She's witnessed more coronations than everyone gathered has all together, most likely, and she knows it. Her gaze, still as bright and sharp as ever, is focused only on Mizuka, ignoring everyone else around her. "C'mon, sonny, your subjects are waitin'. Speech!" Khamisa, her ears hovering somewhere between relaxed and being held back tightly against her skull as if she can't decide what to think at the old one's calls, blinks from her to Mizuka. The new King is given the smallest of smiles and then a faint nod. She and Atreyu are done. It's Mizuka's turn, now. Atreyu, for his part, frowns back in Fayola's direction and then leans towards his sister, his voice no louder than a whisper. "What's with the old hag?" He is silenced by Khammy's forepaw stomping down on one of his and a quick, "Shh!" Brothers.. geez.

The king is officially dubbed by the little monkey, and so the circle of life moves along another notch. In the brief quietness as the monkey speaks, Camrath's aged face moves into a smile. A new start for a stricken pride, a chance for things to begin anew. Maybe it IS a good thing he lived long enough to see this. Moving with the crowd, the knight rises to his feet and dips his head, mane falling over his eyes as he completes the salute to the new master of the pride. Fayola's cry just makes him chuckle- ah, thank goodness. He's NOT the oldest person here after all!

Kisehemu hadn't gone over this part of the last ceremony in any particular depth, and as Tumbuiza approaches he's not entirely sure what to expect. His eyes slide briefly to the knight, so far away now, looking for some clue of what to expect; Kisehemu's face, though, is inscrutable as he watches the healer chant. He's aware that this has some spiritual significance to Kivuli, although he's never been clear on the hows and whys of it, so although he doesn't understand what's being said the older lion merely accepts it as a matter of course. Mizuka, though--his ears flare forward when he hears some mention of Kiet's name amidst all the words he doesn't understand, wondering at what it is she's /saying/. When her hands clap together, he doesn't twitch, but the lion's pupils pin sharply in surprise--and for a moment, when she looks into his eyes and tells him that his father is alive, the expression in them is absolutely stricken. He'd been completely unprepared to hear that, and for a moment he's quite upset that Kisehemu hadn't warned him, although during the last coronation both of his mother's parents had been alive and there hadn't been a need to say anything like this; he couldn't have known. Still, hearing Kiet's name caught him off-guard. When Tumbuiza reaches up to mark his brow, he lowers his head a bit to make it easier, shutting his eyes at the odd feeling of the stuff against his fur and mane. They open again when he feels Khamisa shift beside him, and as she steps forward he inclines his head respectfully to Tumbuiza, silently thanking her for her role in the ceremony today. And then...it's done. Khamisa has pronounced him as Kivuli's King, and everyone is bowing--including Kisehemu, who turns to face him as well, sweeping his upper body low in a movement that's fluid and nearly as elegant as Khamisa's bow, extending one of his forelegs in front of him. And it's in the middle of this that there comes an unexpected shout, and the knight looks up in surprise, as does Mizuka. The new King looks just as confused as everyone else, and, secretly, he agrees with his brother. Why on /Earth/ is she /ordering/ him to give a speech she has to have already known he'd be making? Aside from a slight flicker, though, his expression doesn't change, and after a minute he decides that the best course of action would probably be to ignore it and continue on as he'd been planning. He steps forward, passing Atreyu and Khamisa, to address the pride as their monarch for the first time. "In the past, Kivuli has fallen upon dark times," he begins, a stark contrast to the uplifting words of earlier. "Well before my time, my grandfather's chosen heir attempted to throw the pride into turmoil, but through the efforts of Kivuli's valiant knights," his eyes scan the crowd, lighting briefly on Camrath, "order was restored, and from that disaster, my mother was chosen as the next ruler to bring us into a generation of peace. Now I fear that trouble is once again upon us--my great-uncle, Ronan, was murdered by the pride to the south, and since then we have had guards attacked on the Mbaamwezi border and there has been news of a plague going around. That plague may or may not be what killed my father, but the terrible illness that claimed his life was a tragic way not only for him to die, but for the crown to be passed on to the next King. Coronations are meant to be a joyful time for the entire pride, to celebrate the reign of the former rulers as well as the inauguration of the new ones, but this ceremony was performed in grief. I have a great burden to assume, with all that's been happening lately, but I assure you that my shoulders are strong enough to bear it. Kivuli is powerful and resilient. We /will/ get through the pain of my father's passing, and should anyone, be they an individual or an entire pride, seek to harm us, we will not give up; we will defeat any who threaten us, as we have in the past." His voice is steady, in spite of the rather bleak subject matter he's addressing, but here he stops to draw in a breath and prepare his next words. "I am not my father or grandfather or any of the other Kings who have come before me, but I will be as strong a leader as my ancestors. I will strive to be as wise as they, as gracious and compassionate, and I will serve Kivuli to the very best of my ability. I deeply regret that my ascension to the throne could not have been made under more lighthearted circumstances, but this trial-by-fire will, I hope, temper me into a ruler worthy of joining the ranks of the great Kings who have led our pride in the past. I, King Mizuka, seventh generation of Kivulian royalty, accept the crown." Following that last statement is a powerful roar; it's tradition upon the naming of a new King, but it's every bit as booming, as impressive, as the roar of a lion twice his size. Mizuka's truly put his heart into it, expressing everything--his grief and frustration and his terrible resolve to do as well as his father--that he couldn't during the rest of the ceremony, including during his speech.

<!> In [Kivuli] Cliff, Mizuka roars.
<!> In [Kivuli] Cliff, Khamisa roars.
<!> In [Kivuli] Cliff, Camrath roars.
<!> In [Kivuli] Cliff, Xai'li roars.
<!> In [Kivuli] Cliff, Fayola roars.
<!> In [Kivuli] Cliff, Kisehemu roars.
<!> In [Kivuli] Cliff, Enzaudhi roars.
<!> In [Kivuli] Cliff, Nyuki roars.
<!> In [Kivuli] Cliff, Atreyu roars.

With her part done, the healer quietly steps back into the crowd, wiping the goo off her hand with a leaf and smiling. At the words 'Long Live King Mizuka', she bows together with everyone else - drawing up to her full diminutive height, then bending from the waist with one hand on her chest. Nyuki, the gaunt yellow lioness watching from the cave entrance, pushes herself up just so she can bow - hey, everyone else is doing it, and it makes her feel important!
Tumbu listens to Mizuka's speech with an occasional nod and a look of approval - her own approval, not merely that of the spirits that she formally bestowed on him. Another generation of rulers comes around, and this time she hopes fervently that it will be a peaceful one... yet her heart misgives her at the thought. When the speech finishes and the whole pride roars, making her eardrums rattle, the monkey joins the chorus with a series of quick, high-pitched barks. And again, Nyuki - who has understood very little of the ceremony except the principle of there being a new king - joins in the fun with a roar she hasn't put to use in a long time.

Standing side by side, Khamisa and Atreyu focus on their brother's speech. Khamisa's eyes flood with tears, a few streaking down her cheeks. Atreyu remains silent, nary a tear in his eye, but he brushes his shoulder lightly against Khammy's. Together they think that Mizuka will be a great King. Of course, being his littermates, they may be slightly biased. Both Lord and Lady smile as Mizuka ends his speech, and as his roar fills the air, they add their own voices to his. Atreyu's roar, strong and powerful. Khamisa's, surprisingly loud for a lioness of her size and stature. Theirs are roars of praise and loyalty to their brother.. grief and heartache for their father.. and a warning to any who would dare underestimate Kivuli's newly crowned King. For though Mizuka is the leader by title, his siblings are right there to support him. And soon their calls are joined by the roars of the other leonines gathered: Xipil and Weupe, Fayola and Xai'li and, from two of the youngest - Eden and Akase - a literal shout of "ROOOAR!" As the formality of the event fades, Atreyu and Khamisa come forward to greet Mizuka. For Khamisa, it involves rearing back onto her hindpaws and reaching out to latch forelegs around Mizuka's neck, brushing her tear-stained cheek against Mizuka's, brushing her nose into his mane in a display of sisterly affection. She has no words for him now, but a loud purr rumbles in her chest and throat. She cannot say just how much she loves him, and Attie, for all they've ever been to her.. for all they will continue to be. Atreyu doesn't display his affection as such like their sister. From him, a simple nod to Mizuka and the smallest of smiles. After a moment, Khamisa falls back, also giving her eldest brother a nod. And then she and Atreyu again step aside, making room for any of the gatherers to file by for a word of congratulations or a nod to the new King. They can have their time to talk to Mizuka and Kisehemu later, once everyone is gone.

Still standing with his head bowed, Camrath listens intently to Mizuka's speech- though his heart suddenly leaps when he meets the new king's gaze for just a brief flash, and his words sink in. It's strange how even a simple oblique reference to deeds of the past can cheer the normally depressed old knight, and his royal highness certainly has the pleasure of seeing the scarred face of his oldest knight split in a rare but warm smile, an expression full of good will and support. For one who so rarely shows the positive aspects of his personality in public, the lion's good will loses none of its warmth despite its shock value- indeed, if anything the effect is heightened. The speech comes to its end, touching on both good and bad history. But in the lion's heart, he feels hope. At least this coronation is after a tragic but not abnormal event of early death.. rather than a violent overthrow and battle tainting its undertones. And so, with all his heart and soul, Camrath joins in the roar- his deep, bass tones thundering out 'LONG LIVE THE KING' in time with the others, but ringing out with a timbre and quality of its own. And truly, he means it- the lion accepts in his heart that this could be the last king he gets to serve, maybe even the last king he'll see fullstop. All the better to do the best he can to help this youth while he's still around. And so he forms a new covenant with himself, reaffirming his vows mentally as he plans to before the new king later. A single tear even appears at the side of one of his eyes- a tear shed from pain past and hope to come. For the future, for king and for pride.

All of Kivuli, it seems, roars with him in support, and as the sounds of it die down Mizuka draws in a deep breath. It's done; his speech has been made, and the pride approves. He shifts, intending to step back, but Khamisa's forelegs are wrapped around his neck before he can move, and after the initial moment of surprise he returns her nuzzle, licking her cheek. "Thank you," he whispers, the words for her only. "I know you and Atreyu worked hard to make this a good ceremony." As she pulls away, he stays where he is for a moment, gazing after his siblings, then looks out over the crowd again. He'd like to retreat back into the cave, and speak with his family privately, but he knows that the other members of the pride may want to speak with him. And so, for now, he hangs back, grateful when Kisehemu comes up beside him and gives his shoulder a nudge. "You did quite well," the knight tells him quietly, as Enzaudhi lifts herself to her feet and looks about awkwardly before turning and padding back down the trail. Maybe she ought to try and stick around, to talk with other people if not the new King...but the crowd had her nervous enough already when they were supposed to just listen.

[Msasi]

It was fun! I apologize to people again for having had to skip out like I did on Friday night (thus some of you who participated on Friday didn't get to finish with us on Saturday). But the scene turned out well enough, I think.

Thanks to everyone else who participated, and all those who watched who were patient as we took our sweet time posing. XD