Zaahir went towards the shrines, and oh and behold, the white cheetah girl he had brought in, where everyone thought she was a thief and a whore, now, she was at the shrines. Tending to them with delicacy. After how many times he left and went out, he'd always check on her. From what he heard from the priestesses- she was not one to stick out. She always kept her head down and she hardly ever says a word except for the updates on the shrines and to show some evidence of gods visiting.
"Ah... Good morning?"
She turned her head and smiled. "Greetings Zaahir, I see that the gods have seen you safe passage home."
"Is it you who keeps praying to the gods for my safety...?"
"And your mother and father..." Yaara bowed her head. "Your mother especially comes and makes sure that a prayer is made when she is in pride. Most whom you would not expect to be here.. come." She placed more offers to a particular deity.
Then she turned to him. "But yes, I do pray for your safe returns."
"Its much appreciated. Sometimes I wondered if my mother feels its better to be a fighter and grunts. She thinks I don't train enough to protect myself out there.. but there are other ways to fight that aren't physical."
"Yes... there is always another way." Nodding, "Like how you fought for me.. without raising a paw. You saved my life. Something many could have done.. but did not. One of the bravest cheetahs I know."
"You flatter me... Anyone in this pride would have done the same."
Yaara shook her head. "Perhaps ... but I am glad it was you." She moved closer to him and rubbed the top of her head against his cheek and purred.
Zaahir's cheeks flushed. "You-you- Your-"
"Your mother came to speak with me not too long ago. Said you are were willing to go on a pilgrimage with me."
"What- um - yea... Yea I would. I would like that- If - you know - like--um if you yea um. You-"
She gave him some space. "I have to clean up two more shrines before I go. Maybe hear where and who I am looking for will make you change your mind."
"I da-don't think it will. I am suppose to help you..."
"Settle in? It's been nearly two years since I have come here. I am home. Wait for me then?" As she left his sight towards a tunnel.
Zaahir melted to the ground. "Why does she grow more beautiful every time I see her.." Covering his face with his paw.