Koda smiles at the young female and slowly makes his way outside. He walks a little ways away from the hole in the tree. He finds a comfortable spot to wait for Ryker.
Another hour passes before he spots the Jaguar.
Ryker transforms back and jogs over.
"Is she alright? Any changes? Why are you out here? Why aren't you answering me?" Ryker pops off one question after question with no time to answer.
"Slow down man I just wanted to say be quiet and wake her gently. She woke up after I got back from training but she's still weak and sore so be careful." As soon as I said the last word he dashed off to the cave. I decided to stay out here to let them have their privacy.
Once he was at the bottom of the stairs he slowed and entered. His little sister was looking in his sleep but was dead asleep. She still needs to sleep and rest if she wants to get better. Ryker didn't have it in him to wake her.
He walked up to Lyria and tucked her in. By instinct, she reached out and grabbed onto Ryker's hand. The couple of times he came to see her she didn't move an inch. So this little bit of movement meant everything to him.
"I just don't have the heart to wake you. I am glad to know you finally woke up. Get better soon kitten." Ryker kissed the top of her head and left. Just the reassurance of her waking up has him so relieved he wanted to cry.
Once outside he spots Prince Koda looking up at the sky.
"That was quick. I thought you'd be in there for most of the night." Koda joked.
"She's fast asleep. I wanted to be selfish and wake her, but she needs to rest and build her strength, so I'll leave her be. I'll come back and see her in two nights. Let her know her health comes first and if she isn't doing better by then I won't wake her when I come to see her."
"That's a little harsh but I see it's to keep her from doing anything reckless. Nice."
"This is still great news I can take back to my father and hopefully persuade him to better his health as well. She'll be upset tomorrow so please stay with her instead of coming to training. I'm sure the general will understand." Ryker pats Prince Koda on the shoulder and walked off.
In that slight moment, Prince Koda's respect grew a little more for Ryker. As he walked away a tear was spotted running down his cheek. Ryker transforms and disappears into the night.
Prince Koda went back and saw Lyria tucked in. He transforms into his tiger and takes his spot lying next to her on the floor.