Azar figured she could always use more practice and more brushing up in the fighting pits. And taking on duels of challengers was a fine enough way to do it. It helped those looking to join and kept her from too much unrelenting mockery from her fellow prides members if she lost. And it seemed she was on a bit of a losing streak at the moment. But as long as she learned from each loss, then there was something gained. She took a seat and watched the horizon, while her tail flicked lazily.
Sawa had heard tell of the Firekin for many seasons. She had held her own territory for a few years, since she had parted way with her family- as was necessary due to the scarcity of available resources- but the time had come to finally give up the ghost. She kept strangers at bay for a while, but it was taking an exhaustive effort to maintain her territory from strangers and get what little game there was there for herself. Eventually the lioness learned that those impeding on her land were Firekin themselves. And what's the saying? "If you can't beat them, join them." 