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  "description": "The tenth chapter in The Pride storyline.",
  "description_bbcode_parsed": "<span style='word-wrap: break-word;'>The tenth chapter in The Pride storyline.</span>",
  "writing": "The cold of the wet season, was a memory. The last of the rains that had dumped hard on the savannah were weeks passed now. Six months it had been since the day Keyah gave birth, and the warmth of the sun was filling the Pride Lands. The kingdom was at peace, most rogues driven out by Amri's patrols. Kopa had at last finished his formal training with Amri but, found great joy in continuing to practice alongside him and the others. Nathari had grown particularly fond of his practices, and most suprisingly he had taken quite well to his lessons, winding his own father from time to time. But aside from the occasional cut and scrape, the kingdom was quiet and peaceful at last. \nAs the sun crested their home, two young cubs came Bolting from the entrance of Pride Rock. It was none other than Kopa's own children, Aurok and Stara. Aurok, wore a similar coat to his father, save for a feint white streak starting at the tip of his nose and fading only to reform at his forehead. It ran the length of his body to the tail. His eyes, the same green glow of his mother were wide and bright. Stara's coat was just as her mothers, the same tuft on her chest was even present and was something she was constantly trying to bath down. Her eyes, soft and brown resembled more like her grandfather then either of her parents and showed no streak along her back. The oddest trait to her, rest upon her hind legs, feint gold strips that trailed to her rump like scars. The two searched eagerly outside as the sun rose up and smiled to each other. \n\"You ready?\" Aurok asked. \n\"Dads never gonna wake up, Aurok.\" She dismissed shaking her head. \n\"So, he doesn't have to. We can go exploring on our own!\" \n\"Hey! Wait up!\" Dasha called behind them. The young cub of Kiara and Kovu revealed himself from the den. His face and eyes so much like his father he bore his mothers coat fully. \"Jeez you guys always go running off without me.\" He complained. \n\"Well if you moved your tail cuzzy, we wouldn't have to.\" Aurok answered with a little chuckle. He got in the habit of calling Dasha his cuzzy and vice versa.\n\"Where we going anyway?\" Dasha asked, still wiping the sleep from his eyes.\n\"The outland ruins of course.\" Aurok announced proudly. \n\"What's out there?\" Stara asked, looking on towards the dusty fields. \n\"I don't know, but were gonna check it out.\" Aurok declared. Leading the trio down the ramp and out into the savannah they made a dash to the outlands. Stopping at the watering hole, they took a quick sip and rest. Dasha led his attention toward the small cave located nearby. Puzzled he looked to his cousin. \n\"Hey, ever been in the den there?\"\n\"Yeah kinda.\" He replied, bobbing his head. \"Doesn't go very far, just a tiny little thing.\" \n\"Good spot to hide for hide and seek though.\" Dasha suggested with a smile. \n\"Ah ha!\" Aurok bellowed. \"So now I know where you'll hide next time we play.\" \n\"Guys, come on.\" Stara insisted. \"I wanna see what's out there before mom and dad catch wind.\" \n\"Right right, let's go.\" Aurok agreed, leading the trio on. The walk across the grasslands was quiet. The ground was drying and the grass easily broke beneath their feet. The dry season could really live up to its name sometimes, parching the land of water, but hopefully some rain would come soon. They took their time approaching the lip of the shallow river, it separated the outlands from the Pride Lands. Aurok gazed down the tiny ledge, evaluating their chances of crossing here. \n\"Come on!\" Stara called out, nearly leaping down. Aurok pulled her back and tossed her on her rear. \n\"Don't do it!\" He hushed. Letting her get back on her feet, he gestured back down to the waters below. The subtle movement of scales, hinted the reason for his hesitation. \"Crocs, lovely. I thought they moved on.\" \n\"Cuzzy, look upstream.\" Dasha pointed out. Aurok nodded to him, joining him in a race up. Taking advantage of their one opening they crossed the waters and stepped up into the outlands. The hard packed ground was cracked and barren. The heat from even just the morning sun was enough to make it uncomfortable to walk on. Up ahead laid several hollowed spires, dotted with tiny holes all along it. A few with entrances that peaked out from the base.\n\"What a dump.\" Stara sighed, evaluating the area with disgust. \n\"This is where my dad lived.\" Dasha added. \n\"Not much to it cuz.\" Aurok agreed, siding with his sister. \n\"So what's the story about this place brother?\" Stara asked. Smiling he lead them onward. \n\"Well, from what I hear. The outlands are cursed now by the soul of Zira and Scar. Two of the most evil lions to ever exist. When you walk into the dens, you can hear their claws scraping against the rocks, and punching holes in the walls.\" Aurok retold. \n\"Who'd you hear this from?\" Dasha questioned. \n\"A trustworthy source cuz, don't worry.\" He insisted, keeping a cool smile. \n\"You've been talking to the monkeys again haven't you?!\" Stara presumed. \n\"Hey, sometimes there right!\" Aurok quickly defended. \n\"Great, guess we'll find out one way or another.\" Dasha sighed. Stara huffed as well in disappointment, but her mood was short lived. She could hear the patter of hustling feet behind her. She took a glance back to see who was approaching, though she had a feeling she knew who it was. \n\"Oh no!\" She cried out. Aurok and Dasha looked back as well and frowned. \n\"Geez! The babysitters.\" They sighed. Nathari and Saeska quickly joined them, cutting them off from going any further. \n\"What are you guys doing out here?!\" Nathari demanded. \n\"We're just exploring, Nathari ok?\" Aurok replied angrily. \n\"You gotta stop bouncing out without a word Auri-my-boy. Least get some grown up to come with you.\" Saeska agreed. \n\"Well hey, your adults. Stick around.\" Stara answered. \n\"No, the last thing you need is another lecture from mom, let's go home.\" Nathari ordered, dismissing her suggestion. \n\"No! You can't make us!\" Aurok protested. \n\"Nathari.\" Saeska answered quietly. Pulling in his ear she whispered an idea to him. \"Let's just stay with them this time. Outlands was a bummer, but they don't know it.\" Turning to her ear he answered. \n\"Dad's gonna kill me if I let them run around out here.\" \n\"No he won't, not if he thinks you were here the whole time.\" She implied with a wink. Nathari smiled, catching onto her idea he decided to go along. \n\"Ok guys, tell you what. You can go exploring with us, so long as you tell dad that we were with you the whole time.\" \n\"Fine, just don't cramp our style. You let us explore the cave, got it?\" Aurok insisted. \n\"We'll stay outside but we have to check in on you now and then.\" Saeska stated. \n\"That's fine.\" Stara agreed. \n\"Yeah, sounds good cuzzy, let's just let em.\" Dasha said joining in. \n\"Deal!\" Aurok nodded, shaking Nathari's finger. With Saeska and Nathari on their tails the trio continued on through the outlands. The dry ground crackled beneath even there softest footsteps. Field mice were scurrying about, almost enticing the cubs to chase them, Aurok lead on however, undeterred. Arriving at the base of one of the dirt spires, they gazed up at the holes that dotted along it. \n\"This was Zira's den, according to Kovu. She, Vitani and him along with all the outsiders used to frequent this one to rest and escape the heat.\" Saeska regaled them. \n\"Yeah, my father said this is where she plotted against grampa.\" Dasha chipped in. \n\"And she could be still here.\" Aurok chuckled back at the two. \n\"A ghost?\" Saeska asked with a smile. \"This is what you're after?\" \n\"Yeah? Not afraid are you?\" Aurok replied with the same tone. Giggling she leaned down to his face. \n\"Not a teeny, tiny bit.\" She answered, her eyes slit with a smirk. \n\"Good, let's roll then guys.\" Aurok called out. One by one they entered inside, Saeska turning to Nathari with a smile. \n\"They do know, we checked it out already months ago.\" Nathari questioned. \n\"SHH!\" She hushed. \"Don't spoil it for them.\" She scolded softly. \n\"Alright, alright.\" He smiled, brushing his paw through his mane. Saeska stared at him unimpressed with the fact he was fawning over himself again.\n\"Enough grooming yourself, pretty boy.\" She sighed. \n\"What are you, Sierra now?\" He laughed. Nathari was becoming quite proud of his mane. The once stubble like fibers that itched from his neck truly bloomed. Nearly draping his shoulders in golden threads, his mane covered his chest and veiled parts of his cheek. He had grown up quite well, but aspects of him never really changed. Still a love for bragging and trying to show off for Saeska remained, as well as his feelings for her. Nowadays though she was much more eager to return his affections. She loved him as a friend, having stuck by her through her endeavours in the Pride Lands, and seeing the two apart was rare if ever. \nThe trio walked inside in awe, the room shot beams of light to the ground through the dust that seem to linger about. \n\"Kinda creepy.\" Stara confessed, huddling a little closer to Dasha. \n\"It's alright, honestly the elephant graveyards the spookiest.\" He replied. \n\"Yeah, but mom and dad will kill us if we go back there again.\" Aurok said softly. They took their time exploring inside, the walls of the cave crackling and giving way in small chunks. Stara and Dasha broke away, investigating one of the corners of the den. \n\"Hey look!\" She cried out. Dasha turned his head where she pointed and gazed on at the wall, patting at the subtle marks she found.\n\"Whoa, claw marks.\" He trailed off. \"Cousin! Over here!\" He called to Aurok. Swinging around he rushed his way over. Only a few feet away his paw sunk into the ground and stuck. \n\"Darn it!\" Aurok called out. His paw had fallen deep. With a bit of struggle, he wriggled himself loose and joined the others. \n\"Take a look.\" Dasha pointed to the marks. \n\"You ok brother?\" Stara asked. Aurok waited a moment before answer, looking over the claws in the wall. Satisfied for now, he turned back to her. \n\"Huh? Oh yeah, I'm fine.\" He finally acknowledged. \"I don't know how fresh they are.\" Nathari and Saeska both peaked in the doorway and called out. \n\"You guys ok in there?\" Saeska asked. \n\"We're fine.\" They replied one after the other. \"We found something!\" Dasha called back shortly after. Saeska's interest was piqued and walked in with Nathari following behind her. Smiling she strolled over to the pack of excited cubs as they pointed to the wall. \"Look! Is it the ghosts?\" He asked. Saeska gave it a firm look over and sighed, looking back to Nathari. \n\"Want me to say it?\" Nathari asked. Shaking her head she turned back to the trio. \n\"Guys, these aren't fresh. See how smooth it is here on the edges?\" She pointed it, brushing the marks with her paw. \"This happens over time, they've almost faded away.\" \n\"Oh, so there old.\" Aurok frowned in disappointment. \n\"Yeah, sorry kido.\" She comforted, patting his head. Aurok swung around and headed back into the open areas of the den. Pawing the ground he searched for clues, a footprint, disturbed ground, claw marks anything that would give him a hint that there were ghosts around. Brushing at the surface, he found what seemed like a glimmering white stone. With haste he started to dig, pulling up huge chunks of dirt. Dasha and Stara caught wind while Saeska and Nathari watched on. As the two approached, the ground began to sink and gave way, swallowing up Aurok with it, he tumbled out of sight. \n\"Aurok!\" They cried out, darting to the edge of the newly formed hole. Aurok laid on the ground a moment, he was moving and seemed alright. \"Aurok you ok?\" Stara called out, concerned for her brother. \n\"Ow!\" He cried, rubbing his arm. \"Think I caught something on the way down.\" Pulling his paw away he examined it to find a trace of blood. He had nicked his shoulder on what he was digging up. Looking behind him, he saw what had caught his attention. It was nothing more than the horn from a skull. From what animal, he couldn't be sure, or care at the moment. Saeska and Nathari rushed over to the edge as well, it wasn't too far down, but just out of reach. \n\"Brother? Are you ok? I can see blood!\" Nathari called. \n\"Just scratched my arm Nathari, It's ok.\" He sighed. Digging into the wall, he lunged up and reached for his brother's paw. Thankfully it was an easy catch and with a quick hoist Nathari brought him up. Eagerly he examined his wound, giving it a quick lick while Aurok cringed from the feel. \n\"Looks ok.\" Nathari nodded, satisfied with his work. \n\"Aurok what did you find?\" Saeska wondered. \"I saw you digging there like a mad cat.\" \n\"I thought I saw fangs or something. I just wanted to see what it was, until the ground gave way that is.\" He sighed. Vitani swiftly revealed herself in the doorway, smiling she joined the conversation. \n\"We used to bury anything we stole from the Pride Lands so that if Simba raided us, he'd never find anything.\" She explained, pacing over she took Aurok's arm and gave it a quick once over. \"Nice one kido.\" Swiping his paw away he fumed at the remark. \n\"Great, you're gonna tell dad for sure.\" He whined. \n\"It's not your dad that complains about you running off here without so much as word, Aurok. It's your mother.\" Vitani corrected. \n\"Yeah true, mom usually gives them the most trouble when they do this.\" Nathari agreed. Vitani nodded.\n\"You know, to be honest.\" Saeska started. \"Nathari, we never came here at night. We could probably bring the cubs back here then if they want to investigate, that way we can actually help them.\" \n\"We could have helped them now.\" Nathari replied. \n\"No, I mean. We hit this place during the day as well.\" \n\"The evening really.\" He corrected. \n\"Still in sunlight.\" She continued. \"But we haven't checked this place out during nightfall.\" Saeska was hoping he would catch the hint. The cubs would be far more reliant on them if they came back during the night.\n\"Alright, sounds good. How bout it you guys? In for it?\" He asked the group. Stara, Aurok and Dasha all nodded, in favor of the idea.\n\"What brought you by my dear?\" Saeska asked, bounding over to Vitani. Smiling she chuckled and lead them outside. \n\"We saw you leave this morning. I figured you had it, but when I saw you heading to the outlands, got my interest.\" She answered. \n\"Yeah, we got wind of their plan so we followed, stalked em good.\" She giggled, looking back to Nathari. He had the cubs playing on his back and head, laughing as they climbed all over him. Vitani casually glanced to her, watching him with the little ones. \n\"He's a good lion, huh?\" Vitani threw in. Saeska returned her attention to Vitani. Smiling briefly she nodded and looked on ahead. \"Bet he'd make a wonderful lover.\" She added more boldly. Saeska shook her head and giggled. \n\"Dirty, dirty girl you are.\" \n\"Well you’re young. You got some adventures left in you I'd say before you start giving cubs to anyone.\" Said, keeping her voice shy of Nathari's ears. \n\"Someday, sure. But right now, no ma'am.\" She reaffirmed. \n\"Haha, well. Let's be honest here Saeska. You can love a good lion like him without getting pregnant. Heck it took Asani months to get me going.\" Smiling Saeska swung her head up, her eyes wide open. \n\"You’re having cubs?!\" She nearly burst out. \n\"Yeah, I had sickness just yesterday morning. So did my lover-girl. The last heat finally did the trick.\" She chuckled. \n\"YEAH!\" She cried out softly leaning into Vitani's shoulders. \"Congratulations! Does Asani know yet?\" She asked. \n\"He knows I am, he doesn't know Sierra is.\" \n\"Oh.\" She cut off, resuming her walk. \n\"Don't worry, I'll tell him soon. I was going to let my girl do it, but this is one of the few things she keeps her mouth shut about.\" Vitani lead her down into the shallow river with the others following behind her. Reaching the other shore, the water began to churn and bubble, and with a rush leapt a crocodile, aimed straight toward her. Vitani glared down the creature and swatted it right on the chin, slicing through the scales and clamping its mouth shut. \"Knock it off!\" She scolded. Surprisingly it started to whimper, bolting away in all haste from the scowling face of Vitani. \"That old prick, never gives up.\" She said to herself. Saeska just stared blankly in astonishment. \n\"She just.\" Saeska trailed off. \n\"Uppercut a crocodile.\" Nathari finished. \n\"Whoa.\" The cubs sighed atop his back. \n\nKopa and Keyah were watching from atop pride rock as the group arrived home. Smiling Keyah rushed down to her cubs and swept them off Nathari’s back, holding them tight in her arms. \n\"Mom!\" Aurok protested while Stara embraced the hug. \n\"How many times have I told you not to sneak off like that?\" She asked, snapping to them. \n\"Easy Keyah.\" Kopa comforted, stroking her back. “There just young, don’t let it get to you.” Keyah let them down to the ground, taking a deep breath to relax. \n“I know. Just say something, please son.” She pleaded, leaning down to nuzzle her sons cheek. \n“I’m sorry mom.” He half-heartedly apologized. Keyah returned her attention to Nathari and Saeska. \n“Were they with you the whole time?”\n“Yeah, they were good.” Nathari smiled and nodded. Keyah gave him a quick hug and kiss on the cheek. \n“CUZZIES!!!” a little voice cried out from within pride rock. Stara and Dasha both smiled as Halake burst from the den. The little cub charged at Stara and threw her to the ground as he squeezed. “Cuzzies! You’re home!” He called out holding her tight. The little cub was still very young, and was always eager to tell his stories to his cousins and to hear theres. \n“Yes, were home.” Stara laughed settling him down. Halake was Ni and Kinu’s son, the young cub wore his father’s eyes and dark brown coat. His cheeks seem to tint to his father’s fur color as it ran to his eyes while freckles of tan coloration dotted his hind legs. Just under three months old, the little cub wasn't allowed much passed Pride Rock, and was very dependent on them for any kind of adventure. \n“Cuzzies, you know? Did you see? Last night, all the stars out? It was so bright!” He exclaimed, tapping the ground repeatedly with his front feet. \n“Yeah.” Aurok smiled at him. “We saw, did you see any shooting stars?” He asked him. Halake sat down to think a moment, his paw over his mouth as he thought aloud. \n“Shooting.. did I see.. those... are they stars that move?” He asked nervously. \n“Yeah.” Stara replied for Aurok. Shaking his head back and forth he replied. \n“Nope, nopers I did not see a shooting star.” \n“Awww.” She moaned, patting his head softly. “You’ll see some. Don’t you worry.” \n“Guys, head inside.” Kopa insisted, seeing Amri and Asani’s arrival. Keyah nodded and took the young ones in followed by Vitani, Saeska and Nathari. \n“Whoa whoa kid!” Amri called out. “Nathari! Where do you think you’re going?” Smiling he turned around. \n“I’m allowed to come?” He asked eagerly. \n“This one’s important. Kopa! Your father and the others await us, let's move.” Amri gestured off towards Scars old den. Kopa and Nathari complied and rushed off to join the others. Making their way down to the former home of Scar, Nathari bounced along with his head held high. It was rare he was brought to the male talks, so he was quite excited. Smiling he waved to Ni, while Kopa took a warm hug from Ni, Kovu and his father. Gathering around in a circle they settled down, Amri with a subtle heave as he landed. Simba cleared his throat and began the discussion. \n“Alright guys, we have a bit of a situation. Things have been very quiet up till now, but recently there have been attacks on our borders by a rogue lion pride.” \n“Simba’s right.” Ni agreed. “The patrol I ran last night bumped into carcasses strewn all about. Someone who wants us to know there here.” \n“Ballsy little bastards.” Asani laughed. “What else did you find?” \n“I checked the teeth marks on them. Either lions or a good sized leopard. But the amount of bodies, it’s just disgusting. The creatures are half eaten, half mutilated.” Ni explained. \n“Where are they again?” Kopa asked. \n“Southern border, across the river. Oddly enough, I don’t think it’s very far from where we used to camp out here Amri.” Ni answered turning to Amri. Nodding in approval he seemed interested in the thought. \n“Oh really?” \n“What kind of a message are they trying to send, mutilating game?” Kovu wondered. \n“It’s a way to get our attention I assume. Some lion prides are rather vulgar, and are not afraid to challenge kingdoms like ours. Though I must say, the effort is in vein, they could never take this kingdom now.” Amri stated. \n“It still requires an answer.” Simba insisted. \n“Agreed.” Amri nodded. \n“Kicking there ass comes to mind.” Asani laughed softly. \n“Strangely enough, I’m with him.” Kopa chuckled. \n“Me too.” Echoed Kovu. \n“An attack is a reasonable suggestion.” Simba nodded. \n“I agree, but not without knowledge of what we are up against. I think that is where you will come in my young friend.” Amri stated, looking to Nathari. \n“Yeah? What do you need me to do?” He asked. \n“Nathari you’re not quite as swift as my daughter but you definitely have some speed and vitality in you. How is your prowling?” Amri questioned, raising an eyebrow. \n“Phenomenal, as usual.” He laughed, swatting away a stray hair from his face. \n“Good, cause you’ll be going in alone. Investigate the area surrounding the campsite. If you can’t find the beasts, ensure it’s clear.” Amri instructed. \n“Son, if you see anything you can’t handle come right back home.” Kopa added. \n“Got it dad.” He nodded bolting to his feet. Kopa waved his paw, trying to get him to settle. \n“Wait for the cover of night, and then investigate.” Kopa elaborated. \n“Oh, ok. Wait, I was supposed to.” He interrupted himself. The group looked to him confused. \n“Supposed to what?” Kovu asked. \n“Never mind. I’ll check it out and report back to you, Amri.” He reaffirmed. \n“Excellent.” Amri smiled. “In the mean time Simba. It might be wise to double up the male count on patrols today.” \n“Hmm, agreed. Kopa, go with Kovu. Asani, you join Ni. Amri and I will cover the night patrol tonight.” \n“And me?” Nathari asked eagerly. \n“You have your assignment, Nathari.” Simba reminded him. \n“Oh, right. Guess I can’t patrol yet, huh?” He stammered with a smile. Asani shook his head, getting up. \n“Don’t take it personal kid, believe me, patrols suck and you are not missing much.” He explained with a shake of his mane. \n“Maybe you just suck at them.” Ni quipped, with a tap to his shoulder. \n“Ooo, walking, such a challenge.” He laughed. \n\nAs the night fell, Nathari headed for the doorway to investigate the southern border. Reminding himself just across the river, to check for any signs of the lions return and scout the numbers. Stepping outside he breathed in the night air and nodded, lunging for the ramp he tried to head down but found himself caught at the tail. Saeska tugged at him, turning him around. \n\"What?\" He asked. \n\"Did you forget? Were taking the cubs out tonight, Zira's old den? Any of this familiar?\" She carried on. Hanging his head he sighed. \n\"I'm sorry, I can't go tonight. Your father and Simba have me on assignment.\" He replied unhappily. Saeska picked up his head, her face grew concerned. \n\"What's wrong?\" She asked. \n\"Hopefully nothing.\" He stated, lowering her paw he drew her closer to him. \"But I have to check it out and report back to Amri.\" \n\"Nathari, just tell me.\" She insisted. \n\"I'll be fine.\" He assured her, stroking her arm. \"Heck if I finish early I'll rush down to the outlands to join you, ok?\" Saeska allowed him to brush her arm for a while longer before submitting to his duty. \n\"Ok.\" She nodded, leaning into his cheek she kissed him softly. \"Be careful.\" \n\"I will.\" He said, returning the kiss and brushing her cheek with his. He took to the ramp and rushed down, making one more turn before departing. \"Love you, Saeska.\" He called back. She staggered a little, smiling and covering her face in embarrassment. She hated and loved when he did that. \n\"Come home soon!\" She called out to him. Smiling he bolted off into the night, racing easily through the dry savannah. The night was warm, the stars and moon were quite bright, and without a single cloud or breeze it seemed you could see straight into the heavens themselves. Nathari ogled the view, running through the grasslands. Approaching the river, he followed along it a brief while, finding the shortest stretch to make the leap across. A small bottleneck of sorts was not far off and he easily made the jump across without so much as a splash into the water. Down the hill and through the shallow grass into the plains of the southern territories he traveled, long passing Rafiki's tree he came up on the southern border. There were few objects for him to cloak his body, and he needed to find something to disguise it. A couple of rocks, stood tall enough to cloak him, so with great caution he lowered his body, making his way over. \nHe eyed the area in question, the bodies of the creatures were nowhere to be found. It was so odd to him, he was certain he was in the right area. Satisfied with the quiet that surrounded him, he revealed himself and traveled west along the border. Still, no sign of the bodies Ni spoke of. The grass grew taller as he hustled along, giving him much more advantage to hide himself if needed. Slowing his pace, he glanced left and right to find nothing in either direction, until his foot tripped the bones of a dead animal. The stumble only hurt a little, shaking out his paw he examined the creature. The dead, half eaten half mangled body of a gazelle was what had tripped him. Flies were littering the body, and the smell was foul, it had to be an older kill by now. Nathari nearly gagged at the scent. \n\"Gross, least finish it.\" He whispered to himself. Looking to the base of the creatures body, something caught his attention. The genitals of the animal were still fairly intact from the rest of the body. They were stained, yellow, a pungent and strange aroma was coming from it as well. It was seed, of what animal, he did not know, but there was abundance of it. \"Who would, mate with what they kill?\" He asked. Disturbed by the sight, he backed off slightly, letting the grass hide the corpse from his view. The tussle of paws formed up behind him, something was running, a fair distance away, but still audible enough. Throwing himself to the floor he stayed low, moving towards the sound. Parting the grass, he reached its edge, and settled in to watch. Down the hill from where he lay, three males, were chasing what seemed to be a leopard. He drew the conclusion from the creatures speed, not able to quite outrun the lions in hot pursuit. One of the big males tackled it to the ground and pinned it as the others took a flank. Turning his ears, he listened attentively. The creature cried out. \n\"NO! Stop it!\" it begged, the voice suggested it was female. \n\"Shut up! You'll stay down like a compliant little cat!\" One of the males barked at her. While the other two pinned her, Nathari watched as the other male took behind her and mounted. \n\"What the?\" Nathari whispered to himself. \"He's raping her. They all are.\" He concluded. A few minutes longer confirmed it; they would swap locations and take to her. Nathari studied the lions themselves, they seemed about average size. Two of them not even bigger then Asani, and none a match to Amri's size or strength. Though he tried to stay focused, it became harder to watch the creature in pain. Looking away as the third concluded his abuse of the poor creature, he heard her cry out again. \n\"No! Stop it!\" Nathari cringed at the words momentarily, before returning his eyes to the scene. The males had her pinned, and were slashing at it. His heart started to race, a nightmarish chill shot up his spine, he was watching them kill her. Once before had he seen such an act, and no longer could stomach it. Shooting away, he cringed once more. Waiting for a moment, the three lions made an escape and fled further away from the Pride Lands. Nathari returned back to see their bodies begin to fade in the distance. He couldn't move though, not yet. He waited for the silence of the night to fall once more. Slowly, he rose up from the grass, making his way to the scene of the attack. He stammered, breathing heavily as he approached, his heart was racing still, beating loud in his ears. He gazed down, seeing her eyes, still open, but the blood littering the ground. Her rear was smeared with glistening sperm, but the face was what disturbed him the most. She seemed locked; in the same horrified pose she took into death. He felt a tear race down his cheek. \n\"I'm so sorry.\" He whispered. \"I should have. I mean, I could have tried to.\" He stammered, backing away. Shaking his head out, he turned around, looking onto Pride Rock far in the distance. \"I gotta get outta here!\" He cried, bolting from the scene. He ran hard, faster and faster, as though the feet of the monsters that committed the act were hot on his trail. Stumbling over another corpse, he ignored it and carried on at full speed. He took little time reaching the river and leapt in, not caring what water he took on, he clamored for the shore and continued on. At last it was within ear shot, taking the ramp he blew inside panting and wheezing. \"Where is Amri!\" Nathari cried out. Nala saw the distress in his eyes along with Keyah, they both rushed to him. \n\"Whats wrong son?\" Keyah demanded. \n\"Nathari, are you ok?\" Nala pleaded patting his head. \n\"Please, just, where is he?!\" He begged, shaking off her paw. \n\"He's out with Simba, there patrolling not too far from here. Give a call from Pride Rock Nathari if it's truly urgent to get their attention.\" Nala explained. Nathari swung out, instantly finding the peak and bellowed at the top of his lungs into the night. He took to the ramp once more and ran out into the west, another roar he released to signal them. Amri and Simba heard, turning back around to their home, they rushed to the voice. Nathari spotted them, and kicked his feet even harder toward them. Grinding to a halt before the two he panted and heaved, exhausted from all the running. Amri settled a paw on his shoulder and put his head to Nathari's.\n\"Easy boy, easy. Deep breaths now.\" He encouraged. \n\"Amri.. there were... lions..\" He panted. \n\"Shh.\" He insisted. \"Take a moment, catch your breath, then you'll be fit to tell us.\" Nathari nodded while Simba began to pat his back, comforting him. \n\"He's shakin up bad Amri.\" Simba noted. \n\"Yes, I see.\" He agreed. Having taken his moment Amri took his attention and nodded. \"Go on then.\" \n\"Amri, there were three lions. They were about Dad's size or so, one a little bigger. I found a body, but none of the ones Ni mentioned but one gazelle. Ok and these lions, there out of there fucking mind!\" He exclaimed, setting Simba and Amri back a bit at the language. \n\"What do you mean?\" Simba demanded. \n\"They raped and killed a leopard. This poor girl, she didn't even have a chance. I couldn't help her; I had to watch as they did it. And on the body, that gazelle. There was seed stains on its genitals. I think there raping the prey they kill!\" Simba and Amri looked to each other in disgust. \n\"How despicable!\" Amri shouted.\n\"That doesn't even begin to describe it. What creature does such a thing?\" Simba agreed. Nathari began to stroke his arm, still trembling from the sight of the leopard being killed. Amri quickly recognized this and pulled him in for a hug, Simba once again pat his back up to his head to comfort him. \n\"This was not what I expected you to find boy, I'm so very sorry I put you through this.\" Amri apologized. Nathari nodded, releasing himself from the two. \n\"I'm alright, its ok. I'm just a little, messed up. But I gotta get used to it right?\" He asked. \n\"No.\" Simba abruptly answered. \"I'll never tolerate this kind of behavior. Those lions must be stopped, immediately!\" \n\"Agreed. Nathari, good work. This is no doubt a troubling sight for you to endure, take some time to rest.\" Amri stated, patting Nathari on the shoulder. Sighing he turned to Simba. \"Simba, I think it would be best if we took a small group tomorrow, and killed these rogues should they step one errant paw in here again.\"\n\"Asani, Kopa, Ni and Kovu should be able to handle this quite well with you at the lead. I'll have Ysura bring a few of her more skilled warriors to aid you.\" He advised. Amri smiled, looking away briefly in disbelief. \n\"A small group.\" He reiterated. \n\"That is a small group. I will not risk the lives of our pride. Take them three to one, they deserve no better than that poor creature.\" Simba stated, turning from Amri back to Pride Rock. Sighing Amri returned his attention to Nathari. \n“Listen, I need one last favor. I believe Saeska is out with the young ones, searching for some ghost in the outlands.” He started explaining. \n“Yeah I know, I was going to go with them.” Nathari answered, hanging his head slightly. \n“Well with this trio about right now, I’m not comfortable with my daughter being out there all alone with the cubs. Can you fetch them, ask them to come home.” \n“Absolutely.” He agreed, darting passed Amri on towards the outlands. \n“Take caution boy.” Amri whispered, taking his time returning to Simba’s side. Nathari casually ran across the open savannah, barreling down the hill and across the river leading into the outlands. The mound in question was straight ahead, spearing up from cold desert ground. Hearing the laughter of Saeska and the cubs inside, he entered in casually waiting to be noticed. It didn’t take long, little Halake spotted him nearly right off the bat. Smiling and tripping over his feet he charged for Nathari. \n“Fuzzy cuzzy!” He cried out. \n“Hey little guy!”Nathari greeted warmly. Scooping him up, he rubbed his head, wrinkling his face before setting him back down. “How’s the camp out going?” Pounding the ground he put on his most fearsome face and tried to intimidate Nathari. \n“We’re looking for da meanest, scariest, and most biggest ghost ever!” He shouted. \n“I see, how frightening!” He played along. “Found him yet?” Halake pouted briefly before flopping on his backside. \n“No.” He huffed. Nathari took the opportunity to pat his head once more and smiled to him. \n“Ah you’ll get him.” He comforted softly. “Saeska, we need to talk.” He called to her. Nodding she turned back to the cubs. \n“Alrighty, be right back guys.” She announced. Leaning down she whispered to them. “Probably got the fur scared off his backside by the ghost.” The cubs laughed, trying to cover their mouth. “Could you imagine if they scared his butt bald?” She asked, her own face contorting in disgust. Dasha, Stara and Aurok all burst out laughing. \n“Saeska!” He called once again. At first she answered it with a smile, but his insistent gestures started to unnerve her. His face becoming more serious she joined his side, making sure Halake rejoined the cubs before they spoke. \n“What’s up?” She asked.\n“We gotta pack this up and go, now.” He whispered. \n“What?” She exclaimed silently. “Why, what’s wrong?” \n“Listen, we’ve been getting hit just outside our borders. Your dad asked me to scout them out, I got to see this trio of lions rape and murder a leopard in cold blood.” He explained. The look on her face grew horrified, her stomach was sick at the thought. \n“Oh no.” She sighed. “Are they coming here?” She questioned eagerly, worried for the little ones. \n“Don’t know, I don’t think so. There camps a good distance away, but they are roaming.” He explained. Stopping a moment, he took her under his arm, holding her back. “I don’t even want to chance them hurting you.” Releasing him from her, she put his paw down and met his eyes. \n“Nathari you don’t have to sell me on this, I understand.” She replied adamantly. “Thank you for coming to warn us.” She praised, kissing his cheek. Snapping back to the cubs she called out. “Alright guys up, get up on my back and Nathari’s were leaving.” \n“Awww.” They collectively whined. \n“But, Saeska!” Aurok cried. \n“No buts on this one.” She quickly cut off. \n“Saeska what’s wrong?” Stara asked, climbing onto Nathari’s back. \n“We’ve been attacked, it’s too dangerous to stay here, we have to get home.” She briefly explained. Halake and Dasha climbed onto her back, holding tight to the little cub under his chest, he gripped onto Saeska tight. \n“Are we gonna be ok?” Dasha asked, tearing up.\n“Were gonna be fine.” She insisted, turning to him. “We just have to move now so we don’t stay here and get hurt ok?” She explained more calmly. “Nathari, you got your brother and sister?” \n“Yeah, let’s get going.” He acknowledged. Rushing out the den, the cubs all accounted for; he broke for the river and raced across the outlands. Saeska stayed near his side, keeping pace quite well, they took caution to not run so fast the cubs couldn’t hold on. Up ahead a shadow stood across the river, waiting at the lip of the other side. \n“Oh good, daddy sent Kovu for us.” Saeska sighed. Nathari took a good hard look at the lion, slowing as they approached, it was clear it wasn’t Kovu at all. Nathari halted her, throwing a paw out in front. \n“Saeska take my brother and sister.” He whispered. The shadow began to patrol back and forth eagerly waiting for them to come. She looked to Nathari, shaking her head. \n“I can’t let you.” \n“Either I stop him, or he hurts you and them. I can’t let that happen.” He reaffirmed. Saeska began breathing heavily; she grew frightened leaning into his body. \n“Guys, get on.” She whimpered. Aurok and Stara were hesitant but complied eventually with a little encouragement from Nathari. \n“Stay at my back.” He advised. She followed close as they entered the river, drawing closer to the rogue lion. \n“Get your bitch and her cubs out of here. I’ve come looking for your blood, Pridelander.” The rogue shouted from the other side. Nathari glared angrily at the statement and cautiously rose from the shore. He kept himself squared off with him, not letting him out of his sight a moment. Saeska bumped his backside, kissing his thigh. \n“For the love of the heavens, please come home safe.” She begged. Rushing off ahead, she got her distance away and went on to bring the cubs home, all the while Nathari circled with the rogue. \n“Why have you come here?!” Nathari demanded. \n“You harbor a fugitive of our kingdom amongst you, boy. That is all you need to know.” He replied. \n“A fugitive? What fugitive? And what kingdom?!” \n“Silence! You’ll pay in blood for your crimes, boy!” He threatened, lunging for Nathari. He dodged his first swing, ducking underneath the blow, he caught the second across the face. Pushing himself back he braced for another charge. Meeting the lion face to face as he rushed, Nathari threw him to the ground and pinned atop him. Swinging hard he returned the favor and blew across his face with a major hit, cutting the lions cheek deep. Kicking for his stomach though, the rogue threw Nathari off, coughing he squared himself with the rogue once more. He took a moment to pat his cheek, nodding at the sight of the blood. “Good, I hoped you wouldn’t just roll over and die.” \n“Like you made that leopard you fucking coward!” He mocked. \n“What?” The rogue asked, puzzled by the statement. \n“I saw you and two others, taking it to that poor girl. I’ll rip you apart for what you did!” He shouted angrily. The rogue laughed at him, shaking his head. \n“Do I look like I care what those three buffoons do? Stand and fight!” He barked, lunging for Nathari once more. Grappling he hauled him up onto his hind legs. Nathari knew he had the weight against him, recalling on his training he slapped the lions arms away, forcing him to fall forward while he descended on top. Grappling him tight, he squeezed the neck while digging with his claws. The rogue infuriated, threw himself back, chucking Nathari away, tumbling on the ground. The rogue jumped, aiming to crash down on him. Nathari barely managed to dodge the force of his landing, but caught the strike to his face that followed after. He cried out at the blow, spitting up. The rogue went for his throat, hoping to end this fight. Nathari rolled aside as he bit the ground. Getting to his feet, he was still in a daze. The rogue walked slowly toward him, barking and growling, trying to intimidate Nathari. Smiling Nathari got an idea, racing to the shore. \n“Coward, you won’t get off that easy!” The rogue cried out taking hot pursuit. Smiling as he looked back, he ensured the rogue would follow. He skimmed along the edge of the river as the lip ascended higher and higher. He glanced down; satisfied with the location he turned to meet the rogue. He was still charging at full speed. Nathari closed his eyes a moment, reflecting on something Amri taught him. \n“Search for the ground.” He reminded himself. The rogue leapt, Nathari smiled. Flinging his body back hard as the rogue lion in total awe felt Nathari’s claws dig into his belly. Nathari had pulled off a full back flip, kicking the rogue up high, hurling him into the river below. The impact on the hard earth beneath the water injured him enough. Coughing and wheezing, he glanced up at Nathari standing over him at the edge of the river. He was still bewildered by the attack. \n“You dirty little-“he coughed, interrupting himself. Nathari laughed, as something drew his attention behind the rogue. He barely had time to speak before the crocodile struck, snapping at the rogues torso and pulling him down. \n“Oo, shit. Guess you shoulda went for the uppercut friend.” He called down, mocking him. The lion managed to free himself, crawling for the other shore. Nathari took a few paces back, riling his shoulders he went for the leap. Landing hard on the shore on the other side he tumbled and made it to his feet. Grabbing the lion, he pulled him up, avoiding anymore snaps from the crocodile. “Get over here!” He demanded, hauling the wounded rogue. Pinning him to the ground, he stared the shocked creature face to face. He was panting hard, laboured breathing he seemed horrified. “Hey! Snap out of it! Answer me, why are you here!” He demanded. \n“You...” He sighed, gasping for air. “You protect... the kill.. the killer of... the kings son...” He stammered. \n“What king!? What kingdom! Speak!” Nathari demanded, shaking the rogue. \n“I... The... high reach... I...” He struggled one last time. Gasping for air, he succumbed to the crushing injury he took from the crocodile. His eyes wide open; he gazed into the heavens, exhaling one last time. Nathari couldn’t believe it, was he really a warrior from the High Reach? \n“From home?” He wondered. “He’s from the High Reach? What criminal then?” He asked himself aloud. “Well, whoever it is, I’m going to find out.” He promised, closing the rogues eyes. \n\nSaeska dropped off the cubs and immediately informed her father of what happened. Amri and Simba both bolted alongside her across the savannah to meet up with Nathari, and the attacking rogue. With all haste, they rushed through the savannah, only to meet him walking towards Pride Rock, with his head down deep in thought. \n“Boy!” Amri called, snapping Nathari’s attention up. Smiling he sat and waved back. Saeska slammed her eyes, lunging in for him. She wrapped him up, burying herself in his mane. Sighing a moment, he held her in his arms, stroking her back gently. \n“Are you ok?” She asked, her voice breaking. \n“I’m ok.” He assured her, planting a soft kiss on her neck. Amri and Simba finally caught up but Saeska wouldn’t release him. Smiling Amri pat his daughters back and smiled. \n“She was deeply worried about you.” \n“We all were.” Simba chimed in. \n“I’m alright, I defeated the rogue.” He answered softly. He took another brief moment to caress Saeska’s neck with his lips before releasing her to his side. “Amri?” He asked. Amri gave him a nod. “Is there anyone in our pride, that was originally from the High Reach aside from me?” Amri was taken back in shock. Glancing to Simba he met his expression with the same face. \n“You, are from the High Reach?” he asked eagerly. \n“Yeah, I thought you knew that?” Nathari questioned. \n“No, I certainly did not.” Amri refuted. Nathari gave him a moment before asking once more. \n“So, who is?” Sighing, he hung his head. \n“I was. But, Nathari, tell me what happened.” He asked. Nathari explained the events of the fight, detailing the part about the rogue saying he was from the High Reach. “So, he was looking for a fugitive.” \n“Yeah. It’s either me or you I guess.” He chuckled nervously. Sighing he turned to Simba. \n“I had hoped this day might never come, but it seems unavoidable. I’ll have to confront these warriors myself.” Amri stated. Simba grew furious at the thought of him going off against them alone. \n“Absolutely not! You have nothing to answer to a bunch of murderers and rapists.” Simba angrily dismissed. \n“Please, you must understand.” Amri pleaded. \n“No, I understand that you are lord of the Pride Lands. Not some criminal, and I will not allow you to be hunted like a dog. We face them tomorrow, and you will stand at our side, understand?!” Simba asserted. Amri gave a brief smile, deciding not to push it further and agreed. “Good, now the kids have had a long night, we should get some rest. I have a few lionesses watching the entrance and ramp, we should be good tonight.” He stated, leading Amri back to Pride rock. Saeska and Nathari followed suit, huddled close together as they walked side by side home. Inside the den, Keyah ran up giving Nathari a brief hug and pat on the head. Kopa stood at her side, waiting his turn to do the same. Patting his back as he held him, he squeezed a good hug before planting himself before him. \n“You alright? We heard you were in a fight with a rogue.” Kopa asked. \n“I’m alright, I won.” Smiling he pat Nathari’s shoulder. \n“Training is paying off huh?” Laughing he nodded happily. \n“Oh yeah, big help tonight.” Smiling he turned his attention to Saeska. He reached for her cheek, giving a quick brush as she leaned into it. \n“Told you, you would find someone you love.” Kopa whispered to her with a wink. Saeska smiled, recalling there talk long ago. She didn’t say a word; she just kept her warm face on Kopa’s. “Well, you two should get some rest. Saeska, maybe you could take care of those few cuts and scrapes there?” He suggested. She nodded, turning to Nathari. \n“Come on.” She said softly, taking him to a quieter corner of the den. Keyah giggled, bumping her rump into Kopa. \n“New love.” She whispered. \n“It’s always fun.” He chuckled, leaning into her lips. She moaned with each smack he landed on hers. \n“You know, we should go find somewhere quiet sometime soon.” She suggested with a lick to his lips. \n“Oh I’d love that.” He stammered, leaning his head to hers. “Just a night for the two of us. Cool grass, warm air, bright stars.” She giggled leaning into his ear, she whispered something so softly and yet his eyes went wide as she finished. “Lover, we tried that, remember?” \n“If at first you don’t succeed.” She giggled playfully. \nSaeska was already well into bathing the small wounds Nathari suffered as a result of the fight. A few shallow scratches on his shoulder, chest and cheek. They had long stopped bleeding, but she bathed as eagerly as if the wounds were mortal. Nathari enjoyed the stroke of her prickly tongue across his body, combing the hair, smoothing his fur. He hardly felt the sting as it raked across the wounds. Smiling he felt her tongue find an area, just at the base of his ear, licking her way to his cheek, a quick brush under his eye even. Smiling he reached for her paw and placed his atop. She didn't move, opting to kept bathing his face. She gave a few more licks before pausing, her muzzle still so close to his cheek. She kissed the cut on his cheek softly, and flashed another lick this time nearer his lip. Continuing she began to tug it up with each stroke, feeling her bristled tongue comb through his whiskers. \n\"I love you.\" He whispered softly, shifting to meet her face. She stopped bathing him immediately, as if suddenly aware of what she was doing. Nathari waited for an answer. She seemed distant for a moment, still smiling, still the warm face he loved, but she didn't move. Ready to sigh and look away, she stole his attention, swinging into his lips, she turned his head and kissed him passionately. Her eyes closed, embracing the tender touch of his lips on hers. She pulled his paw closer to him, grasping it in her own. Pulling her lips away, she bit her lip and smiled. \n\"That's it.\" She whispered. Laughing to herself inside, she looked him deep in the eyes. \"Nathari, I love you too.\" A smile blew across his face, his eyes reeled, lunging in for another kiss, she turned away. \"I want, to make something clear.\" She said softly, caressing his cheek with her own. \n\"What is it?\" He asked. \n\"I'm not ready for cubs, and neither are you.\" She stated. \"I love you, and you hold my heart. Someday, if were still this strongly connected. I'll give you all the little cubs that your heart desires. But I'm not ready for that yet. I'm not ready to be a mother.\" She insisted, patting his cheek. Grasping her paw, he kissed it and looked back to her. \n\"I understand. I'm not ready to be a father yet I agree.\" He admitted. \n\"But you will be soon.\" She cut off. \"Look how good you are with Aurok and Stara. It'll be an adventure I'll never forget. But for now, let's just, have each other.\" She said, grinding her head against his cheek. \n\"You've got me.\" He replied softly. Saeska moaned, brushing against his mane. \n\"I'm still faster than you though.\" She commented with a giggle. \n\"Ha, you think so?\" He chuckled. \n\"Care to wager another butt-kiss there lover boy?\" She questioned, pausing her affections. \n\"Oh no, I'm not falling for that one again.\" He laughed. She pulled him into her arms, flopping him onto his side. Locking herself in his, she rest atop his mane, sighing with pleasure as she stroked his warm body. \n\"Good night.\" She whispered. \n\"Night, my love.\" \n\nSimba wasted no time assembling his crew to go on the attack. Rallying Amri, Kopa, Kovu, Asani and Ni. Ysura took three others with her to reinforce their position. Amri lead the charge and took the crew south to the area Nathari had investigated. Scouring the area though, they only found the body of the leopard he had mentioned, there was little more evidence the creatures had stayed the night. Still, to ensure they were gone, Amri took them a fair distance beyond the boundaries of the Pride Lands and checked thoroughly for any remains. With no more evidence of their prescience, Amri was forced to call it in, bringing the group back home in the late afternoon. After an evening meal, Amri and Simba agreed to remain wary of the potential for further attacks, requesting everyone who wasn't on patrol to remain nearby in case of another assault from the rogue lions. Ni would take Kopa to casually patrol the southern borders of the kingdom that night, a few other lionesses would do the same, a fair distances closer to home as well. Amri rising up to stretch out his long body, looked to his mate and smiled. \n\"You know, there's a few things I'd like to discuss with you if you don't mind my love?\" He asked, hinting something else as well with a smile. \n\"Is that so?\" She asked, giggling as she rose up to his side. \n\"Just, you know. Some uh, counter measures should they hit us again and whatnot.\" He answered softly. He took advantage of her good mood and wrapped his head over her neck, planting soft kisses along the way.\n\"You're as transparent as water my love.\" She giggled, loving each caress of his lips down her neck. Amri relented a moment, letting her gain ahead of him. \n\"Lead the way.\" He approved, following right behind her tail. Asani watched the two stroll out the door. \n\"Ride her hard old man.\" He whispered, a few of the lionesses including Saeska heard him and laughed. She took straight to Nathari's side and plopped herself on his back with a thud. \n\"Hey handsome!\" She warmly greeted from aside his cheek. Nathari laughed, flicking his tongue out to her chin. \n\"Hello.\" He greeted back. \n\"Wanna sneak out and go play?\" She whispered in his ear. Letting a laugh escape he asked. \n\"Thinking what I'm thinking.\" He suggested, with a cool smile. \n\"Yeah I agree, you could use a bath.\" She joked, bounding off of him. \"Come on Mr. Nathari, no time for dilly dallying.\" Asani shoot up at the sight of her departure. \n\"Whoa whoa, where do you think you're going speed freak?\" He questioned, cutting in front of her. Sierra shook her head, calling back to him. \n\"Asani, let the kid go play!\" She protested. \n\"It's dangerous out tonight.\" He argued, turning back to her. \n\"So!? She's a big girl, let her do what she wants. She knows to come home if there's trouble.\" Sierra continued to press. Grunting he turned back to her smiling face. She leapt into his arms, giving him a brief hug and kiss. With a hard squeeze she let go, leaving a paw on his shoulder. \n\"Thank you, you're always looking out for me. But don't worry, I'm just heading over to the rocks south of here. I'm not even out of ear shot, k?\" She insisted. Nathari finally caught up to her side while Asani contemplated his decision. \n\"Alright, within ear shot?\" He asked firmly. Nodding eagerly she loosed her paw. \"Fine then, get outta here kids. Don't do anything stupid now.\" \n\"She's got me to defend her, remember?\" Nathari reminded him. Smiling he looked to Nathari. \n\"Oh yeah, that's right. In that case get your asses inside.\" He joked. Nathari brushed off the joke while Saeska giggled at him, leading the way out the door. Rushing down the ramp she broke for the rocks not far from Pride Rock. It was the old den where Scar used to live, and the lionesses usually frequented on a nice warm day. Slanting down with the hill, the rock lined path took them to the den that spun just a little ways up. Climbing to the top, Saeska settled down near the ledge alongside Nathari. Sighing as he sat down, cuddling his body close to hers he asked. \n\"So why did you want to come here?\" \n\"Ugh, just to get out of that cave. Pride Rock was cozy the first few nights, but by the heavens I miss sleeping under the stars!\" She explained, gazing up to the heavens. \"Just look at em. Gorgeous dots, that litter the sky. Clouds among them that never move, and the moon just a sliver draped along them.\" \n\"You put that so beautifully.\" Nathari complimented, concealing her paw with his. \n\"The stars are the greatest mystery. Are they really the spirits of all the great kings of the past? Or are they something more? Why do some fall? Why do others never move?\" She pondered aloud. \n\"Pumbaa thinks there balls of gas, burning billions of miles away.\" Nathari contributed. \n\"He might be right, or maybe Simba's right. Who knows?\" She continued to wonder gazing up to the heavens. \"Just look at them.\" Nathari swung his head up and gazed to the heavens. Millions of stars littered the sky, some the strangest of colors, red, yellow, blue even. Some sparkled while others seemed like a fixed light. But all of them lay strewn about crystal clear night, drawing the wonder in their minds to what they could be. Nathari had seen them hundreds of times, but never really took the time to appreciate them. Glancing to the northern sky, a luminous flash stole their attention as a shooting star flew across the length of the sky in a near instant, vanishing just as swiftly as it came in the distant southern sky. \n\"Wow!\" Saeska exclaimed. \"Gotta make a wish.\" She giggled, closing her eyes. Thinking of her wish, she opened her eyes slowly turning to Nathari. Confused she tapped his shoulder, snaring his attention from the sky. \"Come on! Make one too!\" She insisted. \n\"It's already come true.\" He smiled, looking deep into her eyes. Laughing she turned away a moment. \n\"Oh that's so cheesy.\" She stammered, shaking her head. \n\"It's true.\" He insisted, rubbing her paw. \"What more in this world, could I ever want. I have family, I have friends, and I have you.\" His words spoken with sincerity. She raised an eyebrow, glancing to him. \n\"There's nothing more you want?\" She asked, giggling nervously. \n\"If I want anything, it's to make you as happy as you make me.\" He answered, leaning in for a kiss. Closing her eyes, she took his lips and massaged them with her own. Letting a soft moan escape as she kissed him over and over. Pulling away she smiled.  \n\"You really do love me, don't you?\" She whispered. \n\"Always.\" He whispered back closing his eyes. \n\"I made a good choice then.\" Saeska said biting her lip. \n\"Yeah.\" He sighed, brushing his cheek to hers. Saeska embraced him, eagerly brushing him back. She licked across his cheek, just shy of his ear. Bathing her way down to his lips for another kiss. Nathari caught her tongue and locked his lips on hers once more. Their mouths opened up, her tongue escaping to his mouth she bathed him inside, wrapping along his cheek and entangling his tongue. Breaking away, their lips let a trickle of saliva dangle between. Her eyes half closed, she stared longingly at him. Nathari pulled her closer, her head found its way into his mane, nuzzling under his chin she embraced him. Carrying on a few moments longer before pausing, reflecting on the words Vitani told her. She gave thought to her body, closing her eyes, she could feel no hint of a heat within her. She withdrew from his mane to meet his eyes with a smile. \n\"Let's blow this rock.\" She suggested. Darting to her feet, Nathari barely had time to clamber to his and catch up. She shot down to the rocky path below and out into the savannah. Her head swinging to the night sky she opened her mouth and smiled wide. Giggling she flopped to her side, rolling back and forth along the soft grass, she closed her eyes welcoming the tingling feel of it across her body. Halting flat on her back, she looked up to see Nathari right next to her, smiling as he looked down. Her tongue was protruding out, paws dangling in every direction, he watched her chest rise and fall with her breathing. Bowing down, he softly bathed her chest, a quick lick across before turning to the length and brushing down. She flung her head back, loving the feel of his bristly tongue flowing down her chest, his breath tickling her with each exhale. He bathed down the cleft of her chest to the soft belly below. Her breathing grew rapid as he licked lower, toward her tits. She felt his tongue lap around and lick each one of her protruding nipples. She closed her eyes, enticed by his eager efforts to tease her. \nFeeling him go lower, she anticipated him going for her most delicate of places. His tongue pressed by, but did not find its way. Instead Nathari giggled, letting his mouth refresh his drying tongue, and resumed his bathing at her thigh. Licking his way up, he paused, grasping her feet with his paw he took each toe and kissed it with the softest touch of his lips.\nHe took to his tongue work again, licking back down the length of her leg, giving her tits another bout of teasing. Along her left leg now he cleaned, brushing her thigh with his free paw as he groomed up to her feet once more. Again he caressed each toe with a tender kiss, smiling as he looked down at her face. Saeska was entranced at the loving touch of his lips against her body, accented more by her eagerly swishing tail. He neglected to bath her on the way back down, opting instead to rest his body near her rump, his head on her belly. \n\"You're so beautiful.\" He whispered, giving a soft kiss to her nipple. \n\"I love you, Nathari.\" She stammered. \"But please, don't talk.\" She pleaded. \n\"You're right.\" He agreed. \"We don't need words right now.\" Saeska nodded, throwing her head back once more, she gazed up at the stars. Nathari began to suckle at each of her nipples, gently tugging them as he released. At the same time, his paw crept up, searching for the folds at the base of her body. Letting just a single finger massage between them, he continued to pleasure her belly by suckling her tits. Saeska sighed with pleasure from his massage, stammering from a mix of the cool ground, and the nervousness of his teasing. Her wetness built up on his paw, he would take it and circle her tits with her juices that would accumulate and gently clean it with his tongue. \nShe shuddered each time he withdrew his paw from her body. She wanted to feel him there again; the soft massage he gave was so soothing. Nathari stopped suckling and started down on her folds. Kissing the soft flesh, he ran his paws under her backside and started to stroke her as he licked along her moist slit. Saeska could barely catch her breath. Each lick only made her desire the next, as the rocking motion of his paws along her back made her push herself into his muzzle. Nathari loved the taste of her juices, eventually he was forced to stop stroking her back. Using a free paw to open her body wider so he could delve in further. He skimmed along her virgin opening, it was almost painful, but Saeska never protested. Her legs twitched with each stroke inside, while Nathari grew hard between his legs. \nHe could tease no more. It began to ache horribly, a craving to be inside her. Climbing up her body, he wrapped his paws under her neck. His face seemed somewhat nervous, gazing into her eyes. She felt him between her legs. A hard stiff penis, gently pressed against the folds of her vagina. Slowly she closed her eyes, pulling his lips to hers. He kissed her eagerly, raising his backside to free his member. He let her legs straddle him, resting on his thighs. He began prodding along; trying desperately to find the entrance he worked so hard to please. Groaning with the kiss, he felt it flick across his tip. He back tracked and found the warm flesh beneath. Pushing, he felt it part, but struggled to get inside. Saeska gave the deepest shudder yet, feeling him press against her virgin opening, even recoiling a bit with each push. His determination would pay off, giving one more push he broke through, feeling her walls part inside as he sunk inside. Saeska broke from his lips and gasped. He was just about half way in. \nGrunting he began slow movements out, before pressing back inside her. Each time he could feel his hard penis parting her walls as if it were the first time, tingling him most as his tip. She was so very tight, so moist and nearly impossible it seemed to fully penetrate. Saeska moaned loudly with each press into her body, he was much bigger then she thought. His strokes inside began to loosen her; he finally sunk just passed half way. He slacked his jaw, panting loudly just off the side of her neck, Nathari groaned with each push inside her. Like a spasm building up, his balls contracted, with little warning he released, gushing his seed within.\n Saeska knew what it was immediately, his hot sperm coating her walls and seeping its way deeper inside her. His penis twitched with each jet released, filling her with his newly matured seed. She felt it swelling up inside her, parting the walls he couldn't with his member. Panting the torrent slowed to a halt, catching his breath a moment he gently stroked back and forth within. To her surprise, he remained quite firm inside her. It wasn't long before he was back to the pace he had set before. She cringed with each press in, he was finally sliding into her depths, feeling him press against her womb, he at last found her deepest reaches. Nathari still wasn't all the way in on his part. But the gush of seed he felt as he pressed into her vault was evidence enough he found her reaches. The wet sperm, streamed along his balls and down her backside. Gently he withdrew before delving back in, pressing her vaginas depths with each push, feeling the kiss of her cervix on the tip of his member. \nHe reaffirmed his stance, shuffling to keep himself locked in and began short rapid movements inside. Never letting himself withdraw much more then the length of his sheath he began thrusting into her body. Saeska bounced with each entry, her eyes closed tight with Nathari's. His head still just off to the side of her neck, panting hard as he mated her. Saeska became aware of what she was doing; she felt dirty letting him hump at her like this. At the same time though, an instinctual yearning was being fulfilled, a desire to be one with someone close to her heart. \nShe ignored the dirty sensation, choosing to embrace the thrusts bound into her body. His movements so slickened by the lubrication of his seed, he was bringing her up to orgasm easily. Her claws reached into his mane, digging lightly as the tingles ran up her body. Her body took over, she squealed as she was brought to climax. The pulsing squeeze within her body made Nathari all the more eager to continue, she let her head flop back, her legs kicking off the side of his body as she was coming down. It was intense, even thrilling to her, feeling him pound inside, her body bouncing with every thrust. \nNathari was running out of breath, he pushed hard for his own release. Saeska too was growing exhausted, and was almost eager for him to finish. This time like a burning sensation growing from his testicles he felt the release coming. Pushing harder he forced the release, and with a final press inside he sprayed within. His head flung up, nose cringed and fangs bared as he flooded once more inside Saeska’s already lubricated vagina. She could feel him, the splashes against her vault with each spray. She placed her paws on her chest, groaning with pleasure as he ejaculated repeatedly. Nathari stammered, his face relaxing as his torrent slowed. He couldn't maintain himself anymore, growing soft he nearly fell out of Saeska's body; his soaked sheath quickly concealed his sore pink flesh. Her slit leaking his sperm, Nathari lowered himself atop of her and sighed with relief. They let the world stand still to this moment, feeling his wetness inside while he lay just under her chin. \nA few moments would pass; he rolled onto his side, taking her into his mane with a smile, still softly panting. She grasped him tight, stroking his back thinking of what they had just done with a smile. She thought she would be mad at herself, or angry, but none of these were true. Just the pure blissful warmth of his mane, the slow rise and fall from his breathing, the stars still shining overhead and the cool air of the night soothing them from their exertion. Nathari from exhaustion alone was falling fast asleep, and bound within his grasp she closed her eyes, bathed in his golden mane she passed out, feeling great pride in her loving mate. \n\nNathari and Saeska didn't move at all in the night, the suns rise revealed them still in the savannah just outside of Pride Rock. While they dreamed away the early morning, a shadow had begun to creep up on them. The dark figure of a lion, shadowed their bodies. Smiling the creature took its claws to Nathari's throat, just shy of Saeska's chin. With the other paw, he parted his eyes, forcing him awake. As he woke, the creature was stunned just as much as Nathari. The figure before him struck him with horror, while the lion smiled and let a shallow laugh escape. \n\"Little, Nathari. I'll be damned.\" He said. Nathari didn't reply, the look of absolute horror still stuck on his face. It was the one lion he hoped never to see. \"What's the matter?\" He whispered. \"Don't remember your old master?\" He chuckled deviously. In a snap his face turned more grotesque and angry. \"Get up.\" He whispered. \"Don't wake up your little slut.\" Nathari didn't move still. His eyes calmed down, but he wasn't willing to comply with Ezea's demand. His claws sunk a little further as he darted down to his ear. \"Get.. Up.. Or I'll make you watch.\" He ordered. Nathari slammed his eyes, and slowly complied, gently lowering Saeska down he got up, while he straddled himself across her. \"Beat it, or I'll kill her when I'm done.\" He demanded. By this time Saeska started to stir. Quickly thinking, Nathari bolted for the southern border of the kingdom. Ezea nearly got off her to intercept him till he realized he ran the wrong way from pride rock. \n\"Fucking moron.\" He quipped returning his attention to Saeska. She groaned and slowly opened her eyes to see this strange lion on top of her. In a shriek she tried to get up, but easily he over powered her and forced her to stay down. \n\"Get off me!\" She cried out. \n\"Shut up, and stay still and I might actually let you stay alive long enough for you to enjoy this.\" He demanded. Hovering his rump over her tail he laughed under his breath. \"Now, try not to scream. At least not till I fuck your ass.\" He mocked; Saeska wrestled with him again but couldn't break free of his hold on her. \n\"Don't do this! You can't do this to me, please!\" She begged. Nathari was coming in now, full speed and aimed square at his backside. Laughing as he held over her, his face quickly contorted as Nathari struck. Slamming his head straight into Ezeamaka's genitals he nearly sent him up and over Saeska. Closing his eyes, he squealed in pain, flopping over to his side. Nathari leaned down to his face. \n\"You ever touch my lover again. I'll rip them off and feed them to you!\" He shouted with a spit to his eye. Quickly he rushed to Saeska and pulled her up. \"Saeska are you ok?\" He pleaded, squeezing her tight. She was shaking badly, so frightened by what had just happened. \n\"I-i-i... I think so.\" She stammered. \n\"Come on!\" Nathari pressed, pushing her off toward Pride Rock. The two raced quickly to the ramp and up. Darting inside she saw her father just waking and dove into his arms. \n\"DADDY!!\" She screamed, with tears coming down her face. \n\"Baby! Oh Saeska what happened?\" He asked, holding her tight. She tried to explain, but amongst the tears no clear word could sound. Nathari stepped in and spoke up. \n\"Amri, its Ezeamaka.\" He explained. \"He's here. He woke us up just outside.\" Hanging his head he told him what else had happened. \"He, just tried to rape Saeska.\" Amri glared at him a moment, releasing his daughter. With a snarl he shouted. \n\"He what?!\" \n\"He's just outside. I put him down hard, I stopped him but he's still out there.\" Nathari explained nervously. Amri roared in fury, bolting from the cave door. The whole pride woke from his outburst. Nathari turned to the others. \n\"Guys get up! Ezeamaka's just outside he attacked us! Amri's going after him!\" Asani, Ni, Kopa and Kovu didn't waste any time. They bolted to their feet and rushed out the door. Nathari nearly joined them, but felt someone tug at his tail. Saeska stood behind him; her eyes filled with tears, his heart sank to his stomach and rushed to her. Wrapping her up he held her tight as she cried. \"It's ok my love, I got him.\" He comforted. \"Did he get you? You know did he?\" Saeska shook her head. \n\"No.\" She stammered. Nathari kissed her neck trying to coax her down a bit. Simba pat his shoulder after rousing the lionesses. \n\"Don't leave the den till we've check around outside. If anyone comes now, we're the only males.\" He insisted. Nathari nodded, turning back to the lionesses. He saw Hakima, Keyah, Kinu, Vitani, Kiara and Sierra rushing over. Hakima clasped behind her daughter and held her. \n\"My poor baby? What's wrong?\" She pleaded. \n\"Ezeamaka attacked us. He tried to rape her, but I stopped him.\" Hakima's eyes welled up with the same fury as Amri's. \n\"The one who attacked our pride last?\" She demanded.\n\"Yeah.\" Hakima roared, swatting at a bone on the floor. \n\"That pig suckling son of a bitch!\" She shouted. \"Amri is out there?!\" She interrogated further. Nathari gave an eager nod. \"He knows nothing of the wrath he's incited; Amri will take his head for this!\" \nOutside, Amri was frantically searching for any sign of his child's attempted rapist. Ezeamaka was struggling to get up still, inching his way to his feet cautiously. \n\"That little motherfucker. I'll kill him for this.\" Ezeamaka said to himself, coaxing himself to his feet. Glancing behind him he saw Amri, searching in the distance with the others coming up behind him. \"Got his attention alright.\" Ezeamaka said to himself once more. With a quick burst he flew from the scene of the crime, but Amri caught sight of his escape. \n\"There you are you son of a bitch!\" He roared, bolting after him. \n\"Amri wait up!\" Kopa shouted behind. He was really pushing to gain on Ezeamaka. He glanced behind to see Amri in hot pursuit, Ezea made a break for the river, hoping to escape out of the boundaries of the Pride Lands. Amri was gaining on him though, a paws distance every second his pace was more tempered then Ezeamaka's. Amri saw the river up ahead, but he was hot on his heels now. With a shrill cry he lunged and swept out Ezeamaka's legs fumbling him to the ground. The two rolled briefly before bounding to their feet. He had no choice now, square off with Amri, or die. Amri growled, his glistening teeth and razor sharp claws ready to cut through the rapists flesh. Kopa and the others finally caught up, huffing and puffing Amri called to them. \n\"Stay back! He's mine!\" He ordered, returning to Ezeamaka. \n\"Come on old lion; let's see if you still got it.\" He growled, riling himself up. \n\"Oh I'll make you suffer for this mistake, boy! No one, and I mean not a damned soul attacks my daughter!\" He shouted in rage. Ezeamaka swung his head up and laughed. \n\"Hahahaha, that weak little cunt was your daughter? Oh Amri, I thought you could do better than that.\" He mocked. Amri bellowed another gutful roar at him while Ezeamaka kept his cocky smile. \n\"Amri!\" Asani shouted. \"Wisen up! He's taunting you to get you to fuck up! Cool it or he's gonna take you!\" \n\"I know this boy!\" He retorted. \"I've had enough of you, Ezeamaka. You should have learned the last time we traded blows, but I will beat this lesson into you once more!\" He challenged, lunging for Ezeamaka. The two grappled up onto their feet, Ezeamaka broke his grip and took a swing for his face. Amri parried him; throwing the blow aside he caught him with his own across Ezeamaka's nose. Howling he backed as Amri took to the charge once again. Throwing himself on top he bit into his neck, trying to wrestle him down. Ezeamaka swept his leg and snapped his head up, breaking his grip as he gracefully swung around swatting Amri's cheek with a solid kick. Bawling Amri backed off as Ezeamaka brought on a barrage of blows aimed for his face. The first caught near his left eye, but the next three were blocked with Amri catching his paw and slamming it to the ground. He wound up and back handed his face, disoriented, Amri threw another at his chin, following it with a swipe hard across his face. Swinging around with the blow Ezeamaka threw a back kick to Amri's chest and winded him, cutting him in the process. \nPressing a paw against his chest, he checked for blood which easily stained him. Ezeamaka flung himself back; he had enough distance to charge for Amri, planting a hard slam that threw him to the ground rolling. Leaping into the air he tried to slam down on Amri's chest but he rolled immediately away, bounding back to his feet. Ezeamaka charged again, but his aim was poor, Amri caught him and with his head locked he spun, contorting Ezeamaka over and onto his back. Amri swung around and pinned him, slamming hard blows aimed for his head but hammering his arm instead. While winding up, Ezeamaka threw his forehead into Amri's face. He cried out from the blow that hit hard on his nose and backed off a little, allowing Ezeamaka to kick up, cracking another shot to his chin. Darting to his feet he snagged Amri into a head lock, claws digging deep he lowered him to the ground, squeezing his neck. Amri struggled with the pain of the hold all of a moment before in a howl of rage he hoisted Ezeamaka up into the air. Amri on his hind legs fell back, slamming Ezeamaka hard onto the ground as Amri took a moment to recover. \n\"Mother fucker.\" Ezeamaka coughed, trying to get back to his feet. He slammed his legs hard, and were difficult to move. Amri rose to his feet, walking over to Ezeamaka who was still flat on his back for the moment. Amri planted a foot on his belly and grabbed him tight by the mane. His face scowling in rage, teeth bared he growled rolling back with Ezeamaka. Roaring he threw him up into the air, flailing a fair distance behind him. Rolling over he looked to him, he was on the ground motionless. Grunting he rose to his feet and decided to finish this. Loosing another roar he charged for his motionless body, nearing the end of his charge Ezeamaka sprung to life, catching Amri's arm he hoisted him up and threw him into the air. Rolling and tumbling as he crashed the ground, Ezeamaka charged, leaping into the air his slam found flesh, pounding Amri's chest. Pinning him he wound up and landed a solid blow across his face, Amri spat up with the strike that left him seeing stars. Ezeamaka wound up another, Amri bounded up, halting his arm and with his free paw he swung, cutting beneath it. Ezeamaka barked, withdrawing his arm to his chest. Amri swung to his face, landing hard, the blow threw Ezeamaka to the ground.\nAmri huffed a puffed, shaking out the dizziness of his previous strike. The two got up nearly simultaneously. They were ready to go another round pacing each other. Ezeamaka with a trail of blood streaming down his arm, while Amri bled from the wound on his chest. They lunged for each other, back up in a grapple on their hind legs. Amri broke the hold pushing him back, as they landed they both took a hard swing for each other, their paws clapping hard with a solid crack. Ezeamaka withdrew his paw shaking it along with Amri.\n\"Stop fucking doing that!\" He shouted angrily. Amri growled, charging once again for him, he leapt high into the air, his body turning as his legs flicked out, trying to drop kick Ezeamaka. Dropping himself to the ground he dodged the flying kick as Amri descended behind him and turned to face him. Ezeamaka swung around, throwing a blow over Amri's head as he ducked down, turning he fired another kick that sailed over Ezeamaka's head. Roaring he tried to swipe at Amri's feet, which he leapt to avoid. Amri lunged for him once again, hoisting him onto his hind legs. This time he kept his grip tight, trying to force him to the ground, but Ezeamaka's balance was solid, grunting, roaring and spitting and as hard as each of them tried neither could get them to submit to the mercy of the ground. His patience worn out, Ezeamaka let a roar build up before leaping up and kicking Amri hard in the gut with both feet. This blow knocked him to the ground with Ezeamaka underneath him. Throwing him off the side, Ezeamaka bounded to his feet while Amri rolled over, trying to get up he clenched his chest in agony. He laughed, circling around behind Amri with a devious smirk. Wiping at his nose as he arrived at his backside, he taunted. \n\"Well, don't think you'll be needing these anymore.\" He threatened, staring at his genitals. Winding up for the blow, he neglected Amri's hind legs which leapt up and kicked his face with a crushing strike, snapping Ezeamaka's head back. Backing off, he staggered around quite helplessly. The blow broke his nose as blood started to pour from under the paw he used to try to conceal it. Amri roared as he turned around, snapping blows to Ezeamaka's face over and over. The hits were overwhelming him now, and with the last few strikes Amri shouted. \n\"Never, touch, my daughter, again!\" He barked, upper cutting him sending him flat on his back. Ezeamaka coughed repeatedly, spitting up blood. \"Have you had enough yet!? Huh boy!? You've the nerve to show that face!?\" He taunted. Ezeamaka wiped his lip, glancing to Amri he spat up another bit of blood. \n\"Die in a fire, bitch.\" He quietly fired back. \n\"Fuck that.\" Asani budded in, joining alongside Amri with the others. \"I say kill the little mother fucker and be done with it.\" Ezeamaka laughed at him, coughing once more. \n\"That's right, Amri. Come on, finish me off.\" Ezeamaka quietly requested. Amri walked over; snaring his mane in his paws he raised his other ready to strike. \n\"For all you've done, the murder, the rape and ravage of this land you deserve this fate.\" Amri declared. \n\"And what about Serwa!?\" He shouted. Amri was shocked; he didn't understand how he knew Serwa. He immediately recalled her face, her smile; she was his love so long ago before he left his home. \"Haha, that's right.\" He laughed. \n\"Speak! How do you know that name?!\" Amri demanded. Ezeamaka continued laughing before answering. \n\"Even the most sickly of lions never forget their mother.\" Amri released him, slowly backing away. \n\"No.\" He stammered. \n\"Where's her justice Amri, abandoned to raise your son alone? Praying for your return everyday! Watching the distance for you, growing sick, neglecting her own needs, and her sons!\" He shouted.\n\"No, this can't be.\" He shivered, shaking his head. \"She wasn't, I mean she-\" \n\"Had me brewing in her belly while you scurried away like the rat you are!\" Ezeamaka cut off. \"Oh I've been waiting for this a long time. You killed your own brother, and left your mate and son to die!\"\n\"Amri!\" Ni rushed to his side. \"Amri, this can't be true?\" \n\"Oh it is, that's the beauty of it. He's a fucking traitorous rat and he knows it.\" He laughed, rising to his feet. Ezeamaka glanced behind him to see his warriors approaching from behind. \"Ahh, sweet justice.\" He sighed, turning back to them. \n\"Justice? You've the nerve to call what you've done justice?! You're a cowardly butcher!\" Ni retorted. \"Maybe Amri doesn't have it in him to finish you off, but I swear you will lie dead on the ground before this conflict ends!\" \n\"We'll see.\" He growled as the others approached. Eight other lions took to Ezeamaka's back. \"See what I bring to this to this war!\" He announced. The lions behind him roared in cheer. \"You'll be picking up the pieces of your loved ones before this ends, that I swear to you, Ni!\" \n\"Master.\" One of the lions called out. Ezeamaka glanced back then to the rear of Amri and the others. Twelve lionesses lead by Simba were on the approach. \n\"This isn't over, father. Oh believe me, you'll answer to mother yourself, soon enough.\" Ezeamaka warned. Turning he rushed to join the others and fled from the battle. The lionesses once reaching them attempted to pursue but Simba called them off. Rushing over to the five he settled before them. \n\"Hey, you guys ok? Everything alright?\" He asked urgently. \n\"It's bad dad, it's really bad.\" Kopa replied. Amri covered his face, stammering he tried to conceal the tears escaping. Ni and Asani wrapped him up, holding him tight. \n\"It's ok Amri.\" They comforted. He shook his head still. \n\"My son.\" He cried. \"Serwa, what have I done?\"\n\nAsani and Ni escorted Amri home between the two, he managed to ease up on his tears before arriving inside. Saeska and Hakima both rushed to him, sweeping themselves into his arms. Giving him a good squeeze and a kiss, Hakima withdrew and examined his body. Cuts and scrapes littered his sides, his paws were stained with blood, and his chest was still bleeding lightly. \n\"Oh my love. You poor thing, come settle down.\" Hakima comforted, guiding him down. \n\"Thank you love. Saeska, are you alright baby?\" Amri asked urgently. \n\"I'm ok daddy, Nathari saved me, remember?\" She reminded him, Amri nodded briefly turning to Nathari. \n\"Thank you boy, thank you so much.\" He praised, resting his head in his paws as Hakima bathed the wounds on his side. \n\"You're welcome Amri. I couldn't let him do it to her.\" He replied softly and yet happily. \n\"Is that so?\" Amri sighed, resting his eyes. \n\"I love her.\" Nathari said softly, kissing Saeska's neck. Hakima ceased her bathing a moment and glanced to him with a smile. \n\"She's taken a good mate, I'm very proud of you, my daughter.\" She beamed, looking to her as well. Saeska giggled nervously as Amri's head rose up again. \n\"Mate?\" He asked, glancing to Hakima then back to his daughter. Saeska bowed her head with a smile, trying to shy away from her father. \"My girl?\" He asked once again. \n\"I love him with all my heart daddy. He'll be good to me.\" She answered, bowing down to him. Smiling he could feel the tears welling up again. \n\"My baby girls got herself a lover.\" He stammered. \n\"And she loves her daddy, so you let mommy fix you up ok?\" She insisted, pawing his ear. Amri nodded happily as she lunged in, kissing his cheek and licking it. Nuzzling him for a while she eventually withdrew, whispering in his ear. \"I love you daddy.\" \n\"I love you to baby.\" \n\"Nathari! Saeska! We need to talk to you.\" Simba called out from the entrance. Asani and the other boys had gathered to him as well. Amri began to rise up to join them but Hakima pressed his backside back down. \n\"No husband.\" She insisted. \n\"But?\" \n\"Amri, please rest. You need to recover, Hakima keep him safe.\" Simba requested. Nala passed the two and headed towards Simba to join the discussion. Shaking his head he halted her. \"Please Nala-\" \n\"Don't you please Nala me! We have something serious going on and you're not turning me away. You wanna have your little moot, let's go.\" She demanded taking the lead up to the peak of pride rock. The crew followed close behind; reaching the summit they took a seat and sat in a circle. Simba looked at the grim faces on the others and decided to speak first. \n\"What happened out there exactly?\" \n\"Like I said dad, it’s bad.\" Kopa answered. \"Amri fought with Ezeamaka, and won. But, he's the son of his former mate. He's Amri's son.\" \n\"Worse yet, he's on a self proclaimed mission of retribution.\" Ni threw in. \"He won't stop till he kills Amri, and takes out everyone who's aided him. He's not alone either; those eight other lions are members of a kingdom known as the High Reach. Well trained warriors who are taught to fight or kill.\"\n\"Uhh.\" Nathari sighed, interrupting. \n\"What?\" Ni asked. \n\"I only saw four of our warriors with them that I recognized and those are basically just Ezeamaka's friends. Those other lions he was with, I don't remember them at all.\" He explained. \n\"You've been away from home for a while Nathari.\" Kovu interjected. \n\"Not that long. Warriors are usually picked around the age you guys found me, and none of those guys were any of my old pride members, there too old.\" Nathari retorted, looking to Ni. \n\"So only four of them don't suck at fighting. Little better odds.\" Asani surmised. \"Any in particular we should worry about?\" \n\"Ezeamaka is the strongest out of them, but the only other one is Gahvrah, he's a rather nasty jerk. He kept picking fights with the others back home.\" \n\"So he's Amri's son? Is there no reasoning with him at all?\" Nala asked. Saeska spit on the ground at the question. Nala and the others looked to her in surprise. \n\"Ezeamaka, is a monster. There's no question of that in my mind. He'll use the fact he's my daddy's son in blood and exploit him.\" She fumed, glancing to the faces all around her. \"We can't let my daddy fight him again, ever! If he does, he will lose. Daddy won't do it, he won't kill him, he's strong but his heart is soft. There must be some way to stop him!\" She insisted. \n\"Akinlana and his children are the only ones I think strong enough to beat him.\" Nathari suggested. \n\"How many brothers do Amri have?\" Nala asked. \n\"He's the youngest of five.\" Simba interrupted. She turned swiftly to him and glared. \n\"How did you know that?\" She demanded softly.\n\"He told me in confidence the first day he came here.\" Simba admitted. \n\"Nariku, Tasani, Khiros, Amri and Jelani. They were Akinlana's five children. When Jelani challenged Amri and died, Amri fled in pain. He and Jelani were twins.\" Nathari informed them. \"That's the story I was told when I was little.\" \n\"You didn't think he was the Amri from your home when you met him?\" Ni asked. \n\"Honestly no, one of my litter mates was named Amri, also one of the prides we overthrew successfully before we met you had a lion named Amri, seemed a common name.\" Nathari explained. \n\"If Ezeamaka's acting on his own then, maybe someone can convince the other warriors in the High Reach to help us. Maybe someone who knows the pride?\" Ni suggested. Simba smiled liking the idea, seeing agreeing faces all around him. \n\"Good idea, if we can convince this king we're in danger he might be eager to send help.\" Simba nodded. \n\"Hold on!\" Saeska protested. \"Getting out of here means getting passed him; you can't send Nathari to his death!\" \n\"Calm down Saeska, I've got an idea for that one.\" Nala assured her. \"Simba, call a negotiation with Ezeamaka. He'll see it as an opportunity to get what he wants maybe. Tell him were willing to trade Amri for the safety of the kingdom.\" \n\"Then what?\" Asani questioned. \n\"Then.\" She curtly turned to him. \"We send out our speediest runners to The High Reach to convince there king we need aid.\" \n\"What happens when he tries to claim his trade?\" Ni asked. \n\"Forget that arrogant pig, he'll never get his paws on Amri. But it could buy us some needed time to get them out. We’ll string the negotiations along, say we need some sign he’s willing to keep things peaceful, then by the time he finds out he’s been had, Saeska and Nathari will have returned.\" She suggested. Simba smiled nuzzling her cheek.\n\"Good idea, genius.\" He smiled. \n\"You should know by now all my ideas are genius.\" She giggled with a wink. \n\"I'll have Zazu send word tomorrow afternoon.\" Simba began. \"Nathari, Saeska, eat up well tonight; drink as much as you need. You two are the fastest runners we have, you need to get there quick and speak with Akinlana directly. I'll ask Rafiki to come by with some of his fruits; I'll imprint my paw on your shoulders to show my urgency.\"\n\"I don't know if I want to leave daddy when he's hurt like this.\" Saeska softly protested.\n\"Saeska.\" Asani spoke up. \"I'll protect him. Don't worry. You just get to the High Reach in one piece. And for the love of the stars get back here safe.\" Saeska bounded to him, wrapping herself in his paw. \"Can't lose you now kid.\" He whispered. \n\"You won't.\" She immediately answered. \"Take care of daddy. Don't let Ezeamaka get near him.\" \n\"You got it.\" He smiled, letting her go. The group broke apart, traveling back down to the entrance of pride rock. Amri welcomed his daughter back into his arms while Aurok and Stara rushed over to Nathari, bounding all over him asking what happened. Asani lay close to his two pregnant lovers, kissing them while he explained what happened outside. Ni took his son in his arms, planting himself aside Kinu. Kovu and Kiara took their son and sat aside Simba and Nala, while Dasha leapt from them to play in Simba's paws. Keyah laid on Kopa's back, kissing his ear and brushing her paw through his mane. \n\"I've made arrangements for us to have some time alone up top tomorrow night.\" She whispered. \n\"I love you.\" He whispered, kissing her paw. She squeezed his neck, licking and bathing his ear as the other lionesses departed to hunt. The cave fell quiet; each embraced in the warmth of their loved ones. Unsure how long the peace of this moment would last. The threat of bloodshed was coming, and with it the threat that the lives of their loved ones could be lost. There hope now placed, in Nathari and Saeska's paws, to quell Ezeamaka's rage before it finds its way into the heart of the Pride Lands. \n",
  "writing_bbcode_parsed": "<span style='word-wrap: break-word;'>The cold of the wet season, was a memory. The last of the rains that had dumped hard on the savannah were weeks passed now. Six months it had been since the day Keyah gave birth, and the warmth of the sun was filling the Pride Lands. The kingdom was at peace, most rogues driven out by Amri&#039;s patrols. Kopa had at last finished his formal training with Amri but, found great joy in continuing to practice alongside him and the others. Nathari had grown particularly fond of his practices, and most suprisingly he had taken quite well to his lessons, winding his own father from time to time. But aside from the occasional cut and scrape, the kingdom was quiet and peaceful at last. <br />As the sun crested their home, two young cubs came Bolting from the entrance of Pride Rock. It was none other than Kopa&#039;s own children, Aurok and Stara. Aurok, wore a similar coat to his father, save for a feint white streak starting at the tip of his nose and fading only to reform at his forehead. It ran the length of his body to the tail. His eyes, the same green glow of his mother were wide and bright. Stara&#039;s coat was just as her mothers, the same tuft on her chest was even present and was something she was constantly trying to bath down. Her eyes, soft and brown resembled more like her grandfather then either of her parents and showed no streak along her back. The oddest trait to her, rest upon her hind legs, feint gold strips that trailed to her rump like scars. The two searched eagerly outside as the sun rose up and smiled to each other. <br />&quot;You ready?&quot; Aurok asked. <br />&quot;Dads never gonna wake up, Aurok.&quot; She dismissed shaking her head. <br />&quot;So, he doesn&#039;t have to. We can go exploring on our own!&quot; <br />&quot;Hey! Wait up!&quot; Dasha called behind them. The young cub of Kiara and Kovu revealed himself from the den. His face and eyes so much like his father he bore his mothers coat fully. &quot;Jeez you guys always go running off without me.&quot; He complained. <br />&quot;Well if you moved your tail cuzzy, we wouldn&#039;t have to.&quot; Aurok answered with a little chuckle. He got in the habit of calling Dasha his cuzzy and vice versa.<br />&quot;Where we going anyway?&quot; Dasha asked, still wiping the sleep from his eyes.<br />&quot;The outland ruins of course.&quot; Aurok announced proudly. <br />&quot;What&#039;s out there?&quot; Stara asked, looking on towards the dusty fields. <br />&quot;I don&#039;t know, but were gonna check it out.&quot; Aurok declared. Leading the trio down the ramp and out into the savannah they made a dash to the outlands. Stopping at the watering hole, they took a quick sip and rest. Dasha led his attention toward the small cave located nearby. Puzzled he looked to his cousin. <br />&quot;Hey, ever been in the den there?&quot;<br />&quot;Yeah kinda.&quot; He replied, bobbing his head. &quot;Doesn&#039;t go very far, just a tiny little thing.&quot; <br />&quot;Good spot to hide for hide and seek though.&quot; Dasha suggested with a smile. <br />&quot;Ah ha!&quot; Aurok bellowed. &quot;So now I know where you&#039;ll hide next time we play.&quot; <br />&quot;Guys, come on.&quot; Stara insisted. &quot;I wanna see what&#039;s out there before mom and dad catch wind.&quot; <br />&quot;Right right, let&#039;s go.&quot; Aurok agreed, leading the trio on. The walk across the grasslands was quiet. The ground was drying and the grass easily broke beneath their feet. The dry season could really live up to its name sometimes, parching the land of water, but hopefully some rain would come soon. They took their time approaching the lip of the shallow river, it separated the outlands from the Pride Lands. Aurok gazed down the tiny ledge, evaluating their chances of crossing here. <br />&quot;Come on!&quot; Stara called out, nearly leaping down. Aurok pulled her back and tossed her on her rear. <br />&quot;Don&#039;t do it!&quot; He hushed. Letting her get back on her feet, he gestured back down to the waters below. The subtle movement of scales, hinted the reason for his hesitation. &quot;Crocs, lovely. I thought they moved on.&quot; <br />&quot;Cuzzy, look upstream.&quot; Dasha pointed out. Aurok nodded to him, joining him in a race up. Taking advantage of their one opening they crossed the waters and stepped up into the outlands. The hard packed ground was cracked and barren. The heat from even just the morning sun was enough to make it uncomfortable to walk on. Up ahead laid several hollowed spires, dotted with tiny holes all along it. A few with entrances that peaked out from the base.<br />&quot;What a dump.&quot; Stara sighed, evaluating the area with disgust. <br />&quot;This is where my dad lived.&quot; Dasha added. <br />&quot;Not much to it cuz.&quot; Aurok agreed, siding with his sister. <br />&quot;So what&#039;s the story about this place brother?&quot; Stara asked. Smiling he lead them onward. <br />&quot;Well, from what I hear. The outlands are cursed now by the soul of Zira and Scar. Two of the most evil lions to ever exist. When you walk into the dens, you can hear their claws scraping against the rocks, and punching holes in the walls.&quot; Aurok retold. <br />&quot;Who&#039;d you hear this from?&quot; Dasha questioned. <br />&quot;A trustworthy source cuz, don&#039;t worry.&quot; He insisted, keeping a cool smile. <br />&quot;You&#039;ve been talking to the monkeys again haven&#039;t you?!&quot; Stara presumed. <br />&quot;Hey, sometimes there right!&quot; Aurok quickly defended. <br />&quot;Great, guess we&#039;ll find out one way or another.&quot; Dasha sighed. Stara huffed as well in disappointment, but her mood was short lived. She could hear the patter of hustling feet behind her. She took a glance back to see who was approaching, though she had a feeling she knew who it was. <br />&quot;Oh no!&quot; She cried out. Aurok and Dasha looked back as well and frowned. <br />&quot;Geez! The babysitters.&quot; They sighed. Nathari and Saeska quickly joined them, cutting them off from going any further. <br />&quot;What are you guys doing out here?!&quot; Nathari demanded. <br />&quot;We&#039;re just exploring, Nathari ok?&quot; Aurok replied angrily. <br />&quot;You gotta stop bouncing out without a word Auri-my-boy. Least get some grown up to come with you.&quot; Saeska agreed. <br />&quot;Well hey, your adults. Stick around.&quot; Stara answered. <br />&quot;No, the last thing you need is another lecture from mom, let&#039;s go home.&quot; Nathari ordered, dismissing her suggestion. <br />&quot;No! You can&#039;t make us!&quot; Aurok protested. <br />&quot;Nathari.&quot; Saeska answered quietly. Pulling in his ear she whispered an idea to him. &quot;Let&#039;s just stay with them this time. Outlands was a bummer, but they don&#039;t know it.&quot; Turning to her ear he answered. <br />&quot;Dad&#039;s gonna kill me if I let them run around out here.&quot; <br />&quot;No he won&#039;t, not if he thinks you were here the whole time.&quot; She implied with a wink. Nathari smiled, catching onto her idea he decided to go along. <br />&quot;Ok guys, tell you what. You can go exploring with us, so long as you tell dad that we were with you the whole time.&quot; <br />&quot;Fine, just don&#039;t cramp our style. You let us explore the cave, got it?&quot; Aurok insisted. <br />&quot;We&#039;ll stay outside but we have to check in on you now and then.&quot; Saeska stated. <br />&quot;That&#039;s fine.&quot; Stara agreed. <br />&quot;Yeah, sounds good cuzzy, let&#039;s just let em.&quot; Dasha said joining in. <br />&quot;Deal!&quot; Aurok nodded, shaking Nathari&#039;s finger. With Saeska and Nathari on their tails the trio continued on through the outlands. The dry ground crackled beneath even there softest footsteps. Field mice were scurrying about, almost enticing the cubs to chase them, Aurok lead on however, undeterred. Arriving at the base of one of the dirt spires, they gazed up at the holes that dotted along it. <br />&quot;This was Zira&#039;s den, according to Kovu. She, Vitani and him along with all the outsiders used to frequent this one to rest and escape the heat.&quot; Saeska regaled them. <br />&quot;Yeah, my father said this is where she plotted against grampa.&quot; Dasha chipped in. <br />&quot;And she could be still here.&quot; Aurok chuckled back at the two. <br />&quot;A ghost?&quot; Saeska asked with a smile. &quot;This is what you&#039;re after?&quot; <br />&quot;Yeah? Not afraid are you?&quot; Aurok replied with the same tone. Giggling she leaned down to his face. <br />&quot;Not a teeny, tiny bit.&quot; She answered, her eyes slit with a smirk. <br />&quot;Good, let&#039;s roll then guys.&quot; Aurok called out. One by one they entered inside, Saeska turning to Nathari with a smile. <br />&quot;They do know, we checked it out already months ago.&quot; Nathari questioned. <br />&quot;SHH!&quot; She hushed. &quot;Don&#039;t spoil it for them.&quot; She scolded softly. <br />&quot;Alright, alright.&quot; He smiled, brushing his paw through his mane. Saeska stared at him unimpressed with the fact he was fawning over himself again.<br />&quot;Enough grooming yourself, pretty boy.&quot; She sighed. <br />&quot;What are you, Sierra now?&quot; He laughed. Nathari was becoming quite proud of his mane. The once stubble like fibers that itched from his neck truly bloomed. Nearly draping his shoulders in golden threads, his mane covered his chest and veiled parts of his cheek. He had grown up quite well, but aspects of him never really changed. Still a love for bragging and trying to show off for Saeska remained, as well as his feelings for her. Nowadays though she was much more eager to return his affections. She loved him as a friend, having stuck by her through her endeavours in the Pride Lands, and seeing the two apart was rare if ever. <br />The trio walked inside in awe, the room shot beams of light to the ground through the dust that seem to linger about. <br />&quot;Kinda creepy.&quot; Stara confessed, huddling a little closer to Dasha. <br />&quot;It&#039;s alright, honestly the elephant graveyards the spookiest.&quot; He replied. <br />&quot;Yeah, but mom and dad will kill us if we go back there again.&quot; Aurok said softly. They took their time exploring inside, the walls of the cave crackling and giving way in small chunks. Stara and Dasha broke away, investigating one of the corners of the den. <br />&quot;Hey look!&quot; She cried out. Dasha turned his head where she pointed and gazed on at the wall, patting at the subtle marks she found.<br />&quot;Whoa, claw marks.&quot; He trailed off. &quot;Cousin! Over here!&quot; He called to Aurok. Swinging around he rushed his way over. Only a few feet away his paw sunk into the ground and stuck. <br />&quot;Darn it!&quot; Aurok called out. His paw had fallen deep. With a bit of struggle, he wriggled himself loose and joined the others. <br />&quot;Take a look.&quot; Dasha pointed to the marks. <br />&quot;You ok brother?&quot; Stara asked. Aurok waited a moment before answer, looking over the claws in the wall. Satisfied for now, he turned back to her. <br />&quot;Huh? Oh yeah, I&#039;m fine.&quot; He finally acknowledged. &quot;I don&#039;t know how fresh they are.&quot; Nathari and Saeska both peaked in the doorway and called out. <br />&quot;You guys ok in there?&quot; Saeska asked. <br />&quot;We&#039;re fine.&quot; They replied one after the other. &quot;We found something!&quot; Dasha called back shortly after. Saeska&#039;s interest was piqued and walked in with Nathari following behind her. Smiling she strolled over to the pack of excited cubs as they pointed to the wall. &quot;Look! Is it the ghosts?&quot; He asked. Saeska gave it a firm look over and sighed, looking back to Nathari. <br />&quot;Want me to say it?&quot; Nathari asked. Shaking her head she turned back to the trio. <br />&quot;Guys, these aren&#039;t fresh. See how smooth it is here on the edges?&quot; She pointed it, brushing the marks with her paw. &quot;This happens over time, they&#039;ve almost faded away.&quot; <br />&quot;Oh, so there old.&quot; Aurok frowned in disappointment. <br />&quot;Yeah, sorry kido.&quot; She comforted, patting his head. Aurok swung around and headed back into the open areas of the den. Pawing the ground he searched for clues, a footprint, disturbed ground, claw marks anything that would give him a hint that there were ghosts around. Brushing at the surface, he found what seemed like a glimmering white stone. With haste he started to dig, pulling up huge chunks of dirt. Dasha and Stara caught wind while Saeska and Nathari watched on. As the two approached, the ground began to sink and gave way, swallowing up Aurok with it, he tumbled out of sight. <br />&quot;Aurok!&quot; They cried out, darting to the edge of the newly formed hole. Aurok laid on the ground a moment, he was moving and seemed alright. &quot;Aurok you ok?&quot; Stara called out, concerned for her brother. <br />&quot;Ow!&quot; He cried, rubbing his arm. &quot;Think I caught something on the way down.&quot; Pulling his paw away he examined it to find a trace of blood. He had nicked his shoulder on what he was digging up. Looking behind him, he saw what had caught his attention. It was nothing more than the horn from a skull. From what animal, he couldn&#039;t be sure, or care at the moment. Saeska and Nathari rushed over to the edge as well, it wasn&#039;t too far down, but just out of reach. <br />&quot;Brother? Are you ok? I can see blood!&quot; Nathari called. <br />&quot;Just scratched my arm Nathari, It&#039;s ok.&quot; He sighed. Digging into the wall, he lunged up and reached for his brother&#039;s paw. Thankfully it was an easy catch and with a quick hoist Nathari brought him up. Eagerly he examined his wound, giving it a quick lick while Aurok cringed from the feel. <br />&quot;Looks ok.&quot; Nathari nodded, satisfied with his work. <br />&quot;Aurok what did you find?&quot; Saeska wondered. &quot;I saw you digging there like a mad cat.&quot; <br />&quot;I thought I saw fangs or something. I just wanted to see what it was, until the ground gave way that is.&quot; He sighed. Vitani swiftly revealed herself in the doorway, smiling she joined the conversation. <br />&quot;We used to bury anything we stole from the Pride Lands so that if Simba raided us, he&#039;d never find anything.&quot; She explained, pacing over she took Aurok&#039;s arm and gave it a quick once over. &quot;Nice one kido.&quot; Swiping his paw away he fumed at the remark. <br />&quot;Great, you&#039;re gonna tell dad for sure.&quot; He whined. <br />&quot;It&#039;s not your dad that complains about you running off here without so much as word, Aurok. It&#039;s your mother.&quot; Vitani corrected. <br />&quot;Yeah true, mom usually gives them the most trouble when they do this.&quot; Nathari agreed. Vitani nodded.<br />&quot;You know, to be honest.&quot; Saeska started. &quot;Nathari, we never came here at night. We could probably bring the cubs back here then if they want to investigate, that way we can actually help them.&quot; <br />&quot;We could have helped them now.&quot; Nathari replied. <br />&quot;No, I mean. We hit this place during the day as well.&quot; <br />&quot;The evening really.&quot; He corrected. <br />&quot;Still in sunlight.&quot; She continued. &quot;But we haven&#039;t checked this place out during nightfall.&quot; Saeska was hoping he would catch the hint. The cubs would be far more reliant on them if they came back during the night.<br />&quot;Alright, sounds good. How bout it you guys? In for it?&quot; He asked the group. Stara, Aurok and Dasha all nodded, in favor of the idea.<br />&quot;What brought you by my dear?&quot; Saeska asked, bounding over to Vitani. Smiling she chuckled and lead them outside. <br />&quot;We saw you leave this morning. I figured you had it, but when I saw you heading to the outlands, got my interest.&quot; She answered. <br />&quot;Yeah, we got wind of their plan so we followed, stalked em good.&quot; She giggled, looking back to Nathari. He had the cubs playing on his back and head, laughing as they climbed all over him. Vitani casually glanced to her, watching him with the little ones. <br />&quot;He&#039;s a good lion, huh?&quot; Vitani threw in. Saeska returned her attention to Vitani. Smiling briefly she nodded and looked on ahead. &quot;Bet he&#039;d make a wonderful lover.&quot; She added more boldly. Saeska shook her head and giggled. <br />&quot;Dirty, dirty girl you are.&quot; <br />&quot;Well you&rsquo;re young. You got some adventures left in you I&#039;d say before you start giving cubs to anyone.&quot; Said, keeping her voice shy of Nathari&#039;s ears. <br />&quot;Someday, sure. But right now, no ma&#039;am.&quot; She reaffirmed. <br />&quot;Haha, well. Let&#039;s be honest here Saeska. You can love a good lion like him without getting pregnant. Heck it took Asani months to get me going.&quot; Smiling Saeska swung her head up, her eyes wide open. <br />&quot;You&rsquo;re having cubs?!&quot; She nearly burst out. <br />&quot;Yeah, I had sickness just yesterday morning. So did my lover-girl. The last heat finally did the trick.&quot; She chuckled. <br />&quot;YEAH!&quot; She cried out softly leaning into Vitani&#039;s shoulders. &quot;Congratulations! Does Asani know yet?&quot; She asked. <br />&quot;He knows I am, he doesn&#039;t know Sierra is.&quot; <br />&quot;Oh.&quot; She cut off, resuming her walk. <br />&quot;Don&#039;t worry, I&#039;ll tell him soon. I was going to let my girl do it, but this is one of the few things she keeps her mouth shut about.&quot; Vitani lead her down into the shallow river with the others following behind her. Reaching the other shore, the water began to churn and bubble, and with a rush leapt a crocodile, aimed straight toward her. Vitani glared down the creature and swatted it right on the chin, slicing through the scales and clamping its mouth shut. &quot;Knock it off!&quot; She scolded. Surprisingly it started to whimper, bolting away in all haste from the scowling face of Vitani. &quot;That old prick, never gives up.&quot; She said to herself. Saeska just stared blankly in astonishment. <br />&quot;She just.&quot; Saeska trailed off. <br />&quot;Uppercut a crocodile.&quot; Nathari finished. <br />&quot;Whoa.&quot; The cubs sighed atop his back. <br /><br />Kopa and Keyah were watching from atop pride rock as the group arrived home. Smiling Keyah rushed down to her cubs and swept them off Nathari&rsquo;s back, holding them tight in her arms. <br />&quot;Mom!&quot; Aurok protested while Stara embraced the hug. <br />&quot;How many times have I told you not to sneak off like that?&quot; She asked, snapping to them. <br />&quot;Easy Keyah.&quot; Kopa comforted, stroking her back. &ldquo;There just young, don&rsquo;t let it get to you.&rdquo; Keyah let them down to the ground, taking a deep breath to relax. <br />&ldquo;I know. Just say something, please son.&rdquo; She pleaded, leaning down to nuzzle her sons cheek. <br />&ldquo;I&rsquo;m sorry mom.&rdquo; He half-heartedly apologized. Keyah returned her attention to Nathari and Saeska. <br />&ldquo;Were they with you the whole time?&rdquo;<br />&ldquo;Yeah, they were good.&rdquo; Nathari smiled and nodded. Keyah gave him a quick hug and kiss on the cheek. <br />&ldquo;CUZZIES!!!&rdquo; a little voice cried out from within pride rock. Stara and Dasha both smiled as Halake burst from the den. The little cub charged at Stara and threw her to the ground as he squeezed. &ldquo;Cuzzies! You&rsquo;re home!&rdquo; He called out holding her tight. The little cub was still very young, and was always eager to tell his stories to his cousins and to hear theres. <br />&ldquo;Yes, were home.&rdquo; Stara laughed settling him down. Halake was Ni and Kinu&rsquo;s son, the young cub wore his father&rsquo;s eyes and dark brown coat. His cheeks seem to tint to his father&rsquo;s fur color as it ran to his eyes while freckles of tan coloration dotted his hind legs. Just under three months old, the little cub wasn&#039;t allowed much passed Pride Rock, and was very dependent on them for any kind of adventure. <br />&ldquo;Cuzzies, you know? Did you see? Last night, all the stars out? It was so bright!&rdquo; He exclaimed, tapping the ground repeatedly with his front feet. <br />&ldquo;Yeah.&rdquo; Aurok smiled at him. &ldquo;We saw, did you see any shooting stars?&rdquo; He asked him. Halake sat down to think a moment, his paw over his mouth as he thought aloud. <br />&ldquo;Shooting.. did I see.. those... are they stars that move?&rdquo; He asked nervously. <br />&ldquo;Yeah.&rdquo; Stara replied for Aurok. Shaking his head back and forth he replied. <br />&ldquo;Nope, nopers I did not see a shooting star.&rdquo; <br />&ldquo;Awww.&rdquo; She moaned, patting his head softly. &ldquo;You&rsquo;ll see some. Don&rsquo;t you worry.&rdquo; <br />&ldquo;Guys, head inside.&rdquo; Kopa insisted, seeing Amri and Asani&rsquo;s arrival. Keyah nodded and took the young ones in followed by Vitani, Saeska and Nathari. <br />&ldquo;Whoa whoa kid!&rdquo; Amri called out. &ldquo;Nathari! Where do you think you&rsquo;re going?&rdquo; Smiling he turned around. <br />&ldquo;I&rsquo;m allowed to come?&rdquo; He asked eagerly. <br />&ldquo;This one&rsquo;s important. Kopa! Your father and the others await us, let&#039;s move.&rdquo; Amri gestured off towards Scars old den. Kopa and Nathari complied and rushed off to join the others. Making their way down to the former home of Scar, Nathari bounced along with his head held high. It was rare he was brought to the male talks, so he was quite excited. Smiling he waved to Ni, while Kopa took a warm hug from Ni, Kovu and his father. Gathering around in a circle they settled down, Amri with a subtle heave as he landed. Simba cleared his throat and began the discussion. <br />&ldquo;Alright guys, we have a bit of a situation. Things have been very quiet up till now, but recently there have been attacks on our borders by a rogue lion pride.&rdquo; <br />&ldquo;Simba&rsquo;s right.&rdquo; Ni agreed. &ldquo;The patrol I ran last night bumped into carcasses strewn all about. Someone who wants us to know there here.&rdquo; <br />&ldquo;Ballsy little bastards.&rdquo; Asani laughed. &ldquo;What else did you find?&rdquo; <br />&ldquo;I checked the teeth marks on them. Either lions or a good sized leopard. But the amount of bodies, it&rsquo;s just disgusting. The creatures are half eaten, half mutilated.&rdquo; Ni explained. <br />&ldquo;Where are they again?&rdquo; Kopa asked. <br />&ldquo;Southern border, across the river. Oddly enough, I don&rsquo;t think it&rsquo;s very far from where we used to camp out here Amri.&rdquo; Ni answered turning to Amri. Nodding in approval he seemed interested in the thought. <br />&ldquo;Oh really?&rdquo; <br />&ldquo;What kind of a message are they trying to send, mutilating game?&rdquo; Kovu wondered. <br />&ldquo;It&rsquo;s a way to get our attention I assume. Some lion prides are rather vulgar, and are not afraid to challenge kingdoms like ours. Though I must say, the effort is in vein, they could never take this kingdom now.&rdquo; Amri stated. <br />&ldquo;It still requires an answer.&rdquo; Simba insisted. <br />&ldquo;Agreed.&rdquo; Amri nodded. <br />&ldquo;Kicking there ass comes to mind.&rdquo; Asani laughed softly. <br />&ldquo;Strangely enough, I&rsquo;m with him.&rdquo; Kopa chuckled. <br />&ldquo;Me too.&rdquo; Echoed Kovu. <br />&ldquo;An attack is a reasonable suggestion.&rdquo; Simba nodded. <br />&ldquo;I agree, but not without knowledge of what we are up against. I think that is where you will come in my young friend.&rdquo; Amri stated, looking to Nathari. <br />&ldquo;Yeah? What do you need me to do?&rdquo; He asked. <br />&ldquo;Nathari you&rsquo;re not quite as swift as my daughter but you definitely have some speed and vitality in you. How is your prowling?&rdquo; Amri questioned, raising an eyebrow. <br />&ldquo;Phenomenal, as usual.&rdquo; He laughed, swatting away a stray hair from his face. <br />&ldquo;Good, cause you&rsquo;ll be going in alone. Investigate the area surrounding the campsite. If you can&rsquo;t find the beasts, ensure it&rsquo;s clear.&rdquo; Amri instructed. <br />&ldquo;Son, if you see anything you can&rsquo;t handle come right back home.&rdquo; Kopa added. <br />&ldquo;Got it dad.&rdquo; He nodded bolting to his feet. Kopa waved his paw, trying to get him to settle. <br />&ldquo;Wait for the cover of night, and then investigate.&rdquo; Kopa elaborated. <br />&ldquo;Oh, ok. Wait, I was supposed to.&rdquo; He interrupted himself. The group looked to him confused. <br />&ldquo;Supposed to what?&rdquo; Kovu asked. <br />&ldquo;Never mind. I&rsquo;ll check it out and report back to you, Amri.&rdquo; He reaffirmed. <br />&ldquo;Excellent.&rdquo; Amri smiled. &ldquo;In the mean time Simba. It might be wise to double up the male count on patrols today.&rdquo; <br />&ldquo;Hmm, agreed. Kopa, go with Kovu. Asani, you join Ni. Amri and I will cover the night patrol tonight.&rdquo; <br />&ldquo;And me?&rdquo; Nathari asked eagerly. <br />&ldquo;You have your assignment, Nathari.&rdquo; Simba reminded him. <br />&ldquo;Oh, right. Guess I can&rsquo;t patrol yet, huh?&rdquo; He stammered with a smile. Asani shook his head, getting up. <br />&ldquo;Don&rsquo;t take it personal kid, believe me, patrols suck and you are not missing much.&rdquo; He explained with a shake of his mane. <br />&ldquo;Maybe you just suck at them.&rdquo; Ni quipped, with a tap to his shoulder. <br />&ldquo;Ooo, walking, such a challenge.&rdquo; He laughed. <br /><br />As the night fell, Nathari headed for the doorway to investigate the southern border. Reminding himself just across the river, to check for any signs of the lions return and scout the numbers. Stepping outside he breathed in the night air and nodded, lunging for the ramp he tried to head down but found himself caught at the tail. Saeska tugged at him, turning him around. <br />&quot;What?&quot; He asked. <br />&quot;Did you forget? Were taking the cubs out tonight, Zira&#039;s old den? Any of this familiar?&quot; She carried on. Hanging his head he sighed. <br />&quot;I&#039;m sorry, I can&#039;t go tonight. Your father and Simba have me on assignment.&quot; He replied unhappily. Saeska picked up his head, her face grew concerned. <br />&quot;What&#039;s wrong?&quot; She asked. <br />&quot;Hopefully nothing.&quot; He stated, lowering her paw he drew her closer to him. &quot;But I have to check it out and report back to Amri.&quot; <br />&quot;Nathari, just tell me.&quot; She insisted. <br />&quot;I&#039;ll be fine.&quot; He assured her, stroking her arm. &quot;Heck if I finish early I&#039;ll rush down to the outlands to join you, ok?&quot; Saeska allowed him to brush her arm for a while longer before submitting to his duty. <br />&quot;Ok.&quot; She nodded, leaning into his cheek she kissed him softly. &quot;Be careful.&quot; <br />&quot;I will.&quot; He said, returning the kiss and brushing her cheek with his. He took to the ramp and rushed down, making one more turn before departing. &quot;Love you, Saeska.&quot; He called back. She staggered a little, smiling and covering her face in embarrassment. She hated and loved when he did that. <br />&quot;Come home soon!&quot; She called out to him. Smiling he bolted off into the night, racing easily through the dry savannah. The night was warm, the stars and moon were quite bright, and without a single cloud or breeze it seemed you could see straight into the heavens themselves. Nathari ogled the view, running through the grasslands. Approaching the river, he followed along it a brief while, finding the shortest stretch to make the leap across. A small bottleneck of sorts was not far off and he easily made the jump across without so much as a splash into the water. Down the hill and through the shallow grass into the plains of the southern territories he traveled, long passing Rafiki&#039;s tree he came up on the southern border. There were few objects for him to cloak his body, and he needed to find something to disguise it. A couple of rocks, stood tall enough to cloak him, so with great caution he lowered his body, making his way over. <br />He eyed the area in question, the bodies of the creatures were nowhere to be found. It was so odd to him, he was certain he was in the right area. Satisfied with the quiet that surrounded him, he revealed himself and traveled west along the border. Still, no sign of the bodies Ni spoke of. The grass grew taller as he hustled along, giving him much more advantage to hide himself if needed. Slowing his pace, he glanced left and right to find nothing in either direction, until his foot tripped the bones of a dead animal. The stumble only hurt a little, shaking out his paw he examined the creature. The dead, half eaten half mangled body of a gazelle was what had tripped him. Flies were littering the body, and the smell was foul, it had to be an older kill by now. Nathari nearly gagged at the scent. <br />&quot;Gross, least finish it.&quot; He whispered to himself. Looking to the base of the creatures body, something caught his attention. The genitals of the animal were still fairly intact from the rest of the body. They were stained, yellow, a pungent and strange aroma was coming from it as well. It was seed, of what animal, he did not know, but there was abundance of it. &quot;Who would, mate with what they kill?&quot; He asked. Disturbed by the sight, he backed off slightly, letting the grass hide the corpse from his view. The tussle of paws formed up behind him, something was running, a fair distance away, but still audible enough. Throwing himself to the floor he stayed low, moving towards the sound. Parting the grass, he reached its edge, and settled in to watch. Down the hill from where he lay, three males, were chasing what seemed to be a leopard. He drew the conclusion from the creatures speed, not able to quite outrun the lions in hot pursuit. One of the big males tackled it to the ground and pinned it as the others took a flank. Turning his ears, he listened attentively. The creature cried out. <br />&quot;NO! Stop it!&quot; it begged, the voice suggested it was female. <br />&quot;Shut up! You&#039;ll stay down like a compliant little cat!&quot; One of the males barked at her. While the other two pinned her, Nathari watched as the other male took behind her and mounted. <br />&quot;What the?&quot; Nathari whispered to himself. &quot;He&#039;s raping her. They all are.&quot; He concluded. A few minutes longer confirmed it; they would swap locations and take to her. Nathari studied the lions themselves, they seemed about average size. Two of them not even bigger then Asani, and none a match to Amri&#039;s size or strength. Though he tried to stay focused, it became harder to watch the creature in pain. Looking away as the third concluded his abuse of the poor creature, he heard her cry out again. <br />&quot;No! Stop it!&quot; Nathari cringed at the words momentarily, before returning his eyes to the scene. The males had her pinned, and were slashing at it. His heart started to race, a nightmarish chill shot up his spine, he was watching them kill her. Once before had he seen such an act, and no longer could stomach it. Shooting away, he cringed once more. Waiting for a moment, the three lions made an escape and fled further away from the Pride Lands. Nathari returned back to see their bodies begin to fade in the distance. He couldn&#039;t move though, not yet. He waited for the silence of the night to fall once more. Slowly, he rose up from the grass, making his way to the scene of the attack. He stammered, breathing heavily as he approached, his heart was racing still, beating loud in his ears. He gazed down, seeing her eyes, still open, but the blood littering the ground. Her rear was smeared with glistening sperm, but the face was what disturbed him the most. She seemed locked; in the same horrified pose she took into death. He felt a tear race down his cheek. <br />&quot;I&#039;m so sorry.&quot; He whispered. &quot;I should have. I mean, I could have tried to.&quot; He stammered, backing away. Shaking his head out, he turned around, looking onto Pride Rock far in the distance. &quot;I gotta get outta here!&quot; He cried, bolting from the scene. He ran hard, faster and faster, as though the feet of the monsters that committed the act were hot on his trail. Stumbling over another corpse, he ignored it and carried on at full speed. He took little time reaching the river and leapt in, not caring what water he took on, he clamored for the shore and continued on. At last it was within ear shot, taking the ramp he blew inside panting and wheezing. &quot;Where is Amri!&quot; Nathari cried out. Nala saw the distress in his eyes along with Keyah, they both rushed to him. <br />&quot;Whats wrong son?&quot; Keyah demanded. <br />&quot;Nathari, are you ok?&quot; Nala pleaded patting his head. <br />&quot;Please, just, where is he?!&quot; He begged, shaking off her paw. <br />&quot;He&#039;s out with Simba, there patrolling not too far from here. Give a call from Pride Rock Nathari if it&#039;s truly urgent to get their attention.&quot; Nala explained. Nathari swung out, instantly finding the peak and bellowed at the top of his lungs into the night. He took to the ramp once more and ran out into the west, another roar he released to signal them. Amri and Simba heard, turning back around to their home, they rushed to the voice. Nathari spotted them, and kicked his feet even harder toward them. Grinding to a halt before the two he panted and heaved, exhausted from all the running. Amri settled a paw on his shoulder and put his head to Nathari&#039;s.<br />&quot;Easy boy, easy. Deep breaths now.&quot; He encouraged. <br />&quot;Amri.. there were... lions..&quot; He panted. <br />&quot;Shh.&quot; He insisted. &quot;Take a moment, catch your breath, then you&#039;ll be fit to tell us.&quot; Nathari nodded while Simba began to pat his back, comforting him. <br />&quot;He&#039;s shakin up bad Amri.&quot; Simba noted. <br />&quot;Yes, I see.&quot; He agreed. Having taken his moment Amri took his attention and nodded. &quot;Go on then.&quot; <br />&quot;Amri, there were three lions. They were about Dad&#039;s size or so, one a little bigger. I found a body, but none of the ones Ni mentioned but one gazelle. Ok and these lions, there out of there fucking mind!&quot; He exclaimed, setting Simba and Amri back a bit at the language. <br />&quot;What do you mean?&quot; Simba demanded. <br />&quot;They raped and killed a leopard. This poor girl, she didn&#039;t even have a chance. I couldn&#039;t help her; I had to watch as they did it. And on the body, that gazelle. There was seed stains on its genitals. I think there raping the prey they kill!&quot; Simba and Amri looked to each other in disgust. <br />&quot;How despicable!&quot; Amri shouted.<br />&quot;That doesn&#039;t even begin to describe it. What creature does such a thing?&quot; Simba agreed. Nathari began to stroke his arm, still trembling from the sight of the leopard being killed. Amri quickly recognized this and pulled him in for a hug, Simba once again pat his back up to his head to comfort him. <br />&quot;This was not what I expected you to find boy, I&#039;m so very sorry I put you through this.&quot; Amri apologized. Nathari nodded, releasing himself from the two. <br />&quot;I&#039;m alright, its ok. I&#039;m just a little, messed up. But I gotta get used to it right?&quot; He asked. <br />&quot;No.&quot; Simba abruptly answered. &quot;I&#039;ll never tolerate this kind of behavior. Those lions must be stopped, immediately!&quot; <br />&quot;Agreed. Nathari, good work. This is no doubt a troubling sight for you to endure, take some time to rest.&quot; Amri stated, patting Nathari on the shoulder. Sighing he turned to Simba. &quot;Simba, I think it would be best if we took a small group tomorrow, and killed these rogues should they step one errant paw in here again.&quot;<br />&quot;Asani, Kopa, Ni and Kovu should be able to handle this quite well with you at the lead. I&#039;ll have Ysura bring a few of her more skilled warriors to aid you.&quot; He advised. Amri smiled, looking away briefly in disbelief. <br />&quot;A small group.&quot; He reiterated. <br />&quot;That is a small group. I will not risk the lives of our pride. Take them three to one, they deserve no better than that poor creature.&quot; Simba stated, turning from Amri back to Pride Rock. Sighing Amri returned his attention to Nathari. <br />&ldquo;Listen, I need one last favor. I believe Saeska is out with the young ones, searching for some ghost in the outlands.&rdquo; He started explaining. <br />&ldquo;Yeah I know, I was going to go with them.&rdquo; Nathari answered, hanging his head slightly. <br />&ldquo;Well with this trio about right now, I&rsquo;m not comfortable with my daughter being out there all alone with the cubs. Can you fetch them, ask them to come home.&rdquo; <br />&ldquo;Absolutely.&rdquo; He agreed, darting passed Amri on towards the outlands. <br />&ldquo;Take caution boy.&rdquo; Amri whispered, taking his time returning to Simba&rsquo;s side. Nathari casually ran across the open savannah, barreling down the hill and across the river leading into the outlands. The mound in question was straight ahead, spearing up from cold desert ground. Hearing the laughter of Saeska and the cubs inside, he entered in casually waiting to be noticed. It didn&rsquo;t take long, little Halake spotted him nearly right off the bat. Smiling and tripping over his feet he charged for Nathari. <br />&ldquo;Fuzzy cuzzy!&rdquo; He cried out. <br />&ldquo;Hey little guy!&rdquo;Nathari greeted warmly. Scooping him up, he rubbed his head, wrinkling his face before setting him back down. &ldquo;How&rsquo;s the camp out going?&rdquo; Pounding the ground he put on his most fearsome face and tried to intimidate Nathari. <br />&ldquo;We&rsquo;re looking for da meanest, scariest, and most biggest ghost ever!&rdquo; He shouted. <br />&ldquo;I see, how frightening!&rdquo; He played along. &ldquo;Found him yet?&rdquo; Halake pouted briefly before flopping on his backside. <br />&ldquo;No.&rdquo; He huffed. Nathari took the opportunity to pat his head once more and smiled to him. <br />&ldquo;Ah you&rsquo;ll get him.&rdquo; He comforted softly. &ldquo;Saeska, we need to talk.&rdquo; He called to her. Nodding she turned back to the cubs. <br />&ldquo;Alrighty, be right back guys.&rdquo; She announced. Leaning down she whispered to them. &ldquo;Probably got the fur scared off his backside by the ghost.&rdquo; The cubs laughed, trying to cover their mouth. &ldquo;Could you imagine if they scared his butt bald?&rdquo; She asked, her own face contorting in disgust. Dasha, Stara and Aurok all burst out laughing. <br />&ldquo;Saeska!&rdquo; He called once again. At first she answered it with a smile, but his insistent gestures started to unnerve her. His face becoming more serious she joined his side, making sure Halake rejoined the cubs before they spoke. <br />&ldquo;What&rsquo;s up?&rdquo; She asked.<br />&ldquo;We gotta pack this up and go, now.&rdquo; He whispered. <br />&ldquo;What?&rdquo; She exclaimed silently. &ldquo;Why, what&rsquo;s wrong?&rdquo; <br />&ldquo;Listen, we&rsquo;ve been getting hit just outside our borders. Your dad asked me to scout them out, I got to see this trio of lions rape and murder a leopard in cold blood.&rdquo; He explained. The look on her face grew horrified, her stomach was sick at the thought. <br />&ldquo;Oh no.&rdquo; She sighed. &ldquo;Are they coming here?&rdquo; She questioned eagerly, worried for the little ones. <br />&ldquo;Don&rsquo;t know, I don&rsquo;t think so. There camps a good distance away, but they are roaming.&rdquo; He explained. Stopping a moment, he took her under his arm, holding her back. &ldquo;I don&rsquo;t even want to chance them hurting you.&rdquo; Releasing him from her, she put his paw down and met his eyes. <br />&ldquo;Nathari you don&rsquo;t have to sell me on this, I understand.&rdquo; She replied adamantly. &ldquo;Thank you for coming to warn us.&rdquo; She praised, kissing his cheek. Snapping back to the cubs she called out. &ldquo;Alright guys up, get up on my back and Nathari&rsquo;s were leaving.&rdquo; <br />&ldquo;Awww.&rdquo; They collectively whined. <br />&ldquo;But, Saeska!&rdquo; Aurok cried. <br />&ldquo;No buts on this one.&rdquo; She quickly cut off. <br />&ldquo;Saeska what&rsquo;s wrong?&rdquo; Stara asked, climbing onto Nathari&rsquo;s back. <br />&ldquo;We&rsquo;ve been attacked, it&rsquo;s too dangerous to stay here, we have to get home.&rdquo; She briefly explained. Halake and Dasha climbed onto her back, holding tight to the little cub under his chest, he gripped onto Saeska tight. <br />&ldquo;Are we gonna be ok?&rdquo; Dasha asked, tearing up.<br />&ldquo;Were gonna be fine.&rdquo; She insisted, turning to him. &ldquo;We just have to move now so we don&rsquo;t stay here and get hurt ok?&rdquo; She explained more calmly. &ldquo;Nathari, you got your brother and sister?&rdquo; <br />&ldquo;Yeah, let&rsquo;s get going.&rdquo; He acknowledged. Rushing out the den, the cubs all accounted for; he broke for the river and raced across the outlands. Saeska stayed near his side, keeping pace quite well, they took caution to not run so fast the cubs couldn&rsquo;t hold on. Up ahead a shadow stood across the river, waiting at the lip of the other side. <br />&ldquo;Oh good, daddy sent Kovu for us.&rdquo; Saeska sighed. Nathari took a good hard look at the lion, slowing as they approached, it was clear it wasn&rsquo;t Kovu at all. Nathari halted her, throwing a paw out in front. <br />&ldquo;Saeska take my brother and sister.&rdquo; He whispered. The shadow began to patrol back and forth eagerly waiting for them to come. She looked to Nathari, shaking her head. <br />&ldquo;I can&rsquo;t let you.&rdquo; <br />&ldquo;Either I stop him, or he hurts you and them. I can&rsquo;t let that happen.&rdquo; He reaffirmed. Saeska began breathing heavily; she grew frightened leaning into his body. <br />&ldquo;Guys, get on.&rdquo; She whimpered. Aurok and Stara were hesitant but complied eventually with a little encouragement from Nathari. <br />&ldquo;Stay at my back.&rdquo; He advised. She followed close as they entered the river, drawing closer to the rogue lion. <br />&ldquo;Get your bitch and her cubs out of here. I&rsquo;ve come looking for your blood, Pridelander.&rdquo; The rogue shouted from the other side. Nathari glared angrily at the statement and cautiously rose from the shore. He kept himself squared off with him, not letting him out of his sight a moment. Saeska bumped his backside, kissing his thigh. <br />&ldquo;For the love of the heavens, please come home safe.&rdquo; She begged. Rushing off ahead, she got her distance away and went on to bring the cubs home, all the while Nathari circled with the rogue. <br />&ldquo;Why have you come here?!&rdquo; Nathari demanded. <br />&ldquo;You harbor a fugitive of our kingdom amongst you, boy. That is all you need to know.&rdquo; He replied. <br />&ldquo;A fugitive? What fugitive? And what kingdom?!&rdquo; <br />&ldquo;Silence! You&rsquo;ll pay in blood for your crimes, boy!&rdquo; He threatened, lunging for Nathari. He dodged his first swing, ducking underneath the blow, he caught the second across the face. Pushing himself back he braced for another charge. Meeting the lion face to face as he rushed, Nathari threw him to the ground and pinned atop him. Swinging hard he returned the favor and blew across his face with a major hit, cutting the lions cheek deep. Kicking for his stomach though, the rogue threw Nathari off, coughing he squared himself with the rogue once more. He took a moment to pat his cheek, nodding at the sight of the blood. &ldquo;Good, I hoped you wouldn&rsquo;t just roll over and die.&rdquo; <br />&ldquo;Like you made that leopard you fucking coward!&rdquo; He mocked. <br />&ldquo;What?&rdquo; The rogue asked, puzzled by the statement. <br />&ldquo;I saw you and two others, taking it to that poor girl. I&rsquo;ll rip you apart for what you did!&rdquo; He shouted angrily. The rogue laughed at him, shaking his head. <br />&ldquo;Do I look like I care what those three buffoons do? Stand and fight!&rdquo; He barked, lunging for Nathari once more. Grappling he hauled him up onto his hind legs. Nathari knew he had the weight against him, recalling on his training he slapped the lions arms away, forcing him to fall forward while he descended on top. Grappling him tight, he squeezed the neck while digging with his claws. The rogue infuriated, threw himself back, chucking Nathari away, tumbling on the ground. The rogue jumped, aiming to crash down on him. Nathari barely managed to dodge the force of his landing, but caught the strike to his face that followed after. He cried out at the blow, spitting up. The rogue went for his throat, hoping to end this fight. Nathari rolled aside as he bit the ground. Getting to his feet, he was still in a daze. The rogue walked slowly toward him, barking and growling, trying to intimidate Nathari. Smiling Nathari got an idea, racing to the shore. <br />&ldquo;Coward, you won&rsquo;t get off that easy!&rdquo; The rogue cried out taking hot pursuit. Smiling as he looked back, he ensured the rogue would follow. He skimmed along the edge of the river as the lip ascended higher and higher. He glanced down; satisfied with the location he turned to meet the rogue. He was still charging at full speed. Nathari closed his eyes a moment, reflecting on something Amri taught him. <br />&ldquo;Search for the ground.&rdquo; He reminded himself. The rogue leapt, Nathari smiled. Flinging his body back hard as the rogue lion in total awe felt Nathari&rsquo;s claws dig into his belly. Nathari had pulled off a full back flip, kicking the rogue up high, hurling him into the river below. The impact on the hard earth beneath the water injured him enough. Coughing and wheezing, he glanced up at Nathari standing over him at the edge of the river. He was still bewildered by the attack. <br />&ldquo;You dirty little-&ldquo;he coughed, interrupting himself. Nathari laughed, as something drew his attention behind the rogue. He barely had time to speak before the crocodile struck, snapping at the rogues torso and pulling him down. <br />&ldquo;Oo, shit. Guess you shoulda went for the uppercut friend.&rdquo; He called down, mocking him. The lion managed to free himself, crawling for the other shore. Nathari took a few paces back, riling his shoulders he went for the leap. Landing hard on the shore on the other side he tumbled and made it to his feet. Grabbing the lion, he pulled him up, avoiding anymore snaps from the crocodile. &ldquo;Get over here!&rdquo; He demanded, hauling the wounded rogue. Pinning him to the ground, he stared the shocked creature face to face. He was panting hard, laboured breathing he seemed horrified. &ldquo;Hey! Snap out of it! Answer me, why are you here!&rdquo; He demanded. <br />&ldquo;You...&rdquo; He sighed, gasping for air. &ldquo;You protect... the kill.. the killer of... the kings son...&rdquo; He stammered. <br />&ldquo;What king!? What kingdom! Speak!&rdquo; Nathari demanded, shaking the rogue. <br />&ldquo;I... The... high reach... I...&rdquo; He struggled one last time. Gasping for air, he succumbed to the crushing injury he took from the crocodile. His eyes wide open; he gazed into the heavens, exhaling one last time. Nathari couldn&rsquo;t believe it, was he really a warrior from the High Reach? <br />&ldquo;From home?&rdquo; He wondered. &ldquo;He&rsquo;s from the High Reach? What criminal then?&rdquo; He asked himself aloud. &ldquo;Well, whoever it is, I&rsquo;m going to find out.&rdquo; He promised, closing the rogues eyes. <br /><br />Saeska dropped off the cubs and immediately informed her father of what happened. Amri and Simba both bolted alongside her across the savannah to meet up with Nathari, and the attacking rogue. With all haste, they rushed through the savannah, only to meet him walking towards Pride Rock, with his head down deep in thought. <br />&ldquo;Boy!&rdquo; Amri called, snapping Nathari&rsquo;s attention up. Smiling he sat and waved back. Saeska slammed her eyes, lunging in for him. She wrapped him up, burying herself in his mane. Sighing a moment, he held her in his arms, stroking her back gently. <br />&ldquo;Are you ok?&rdquo; She asked, her voice breaking. <br />&ldquo;I&rsquo;m ok.&rdquo; He assured her, planting a soft kiss on her neck. Amri and Simba finally caught up but Saeska wouldn&rsquo;t release him. Smiling Amri pat his daughters back and smiled. <br />&ldquo;She was deeply worried about you.&rdquo; <br />&ldquo;We all were.&rdquo; Simba chimed in. <br />&ldquo;I&rsquo;m alright, I defeated the rogue.&rdquo; He answered softly. He took another brief moment to caress Saeska&rsquo;s neck with his lips before releasing her to his side. &ldquo;Amri?&rdquo; He asked. Amri gave him a nod. &ldquo;Is there anyone in our pride, that was originally from the High Reach aside from me?&rdquo; Amri was taken back in shock. Glancing to Simba he met his expression with the same face. <br />&ldquo;You, are from the High Reach?&rdquo; he asked eagerly. <br />&ldquo;Yeah, I thought you knew that?&rdquo; Nathari questioned. <br />&ldquo;No, I certainly did not.&rdquo; Amri refuted. Nathari gave him a moment before asking once more. <br />&ldquo;So, who is?&rdquo; Sighing, he hung his head. <br />&ldquo;I was. But, Nathari, tell me what happened.&rdquo; He asked. Nathari explained the events of the fight, detailing the part about the rogue saying he was from the High Reach. &ldquo;So, he was looking for a fugitive.&rdquo; <br />&ldquo;Yeah. It&rsquo;s either me or you I guess.&rdquo; He chuckled nervously. Sighing he turned to Simba. <br />&ldquo;I had hoped this day might never come, but it seems unavoidable. I&rsquo;ll have to confront these warriors myself.&rdquo; Amri stated. Simba grew furious at the thought of him going off against them alone. <br />&ldquo;Absolutely not! You have nothing to answer to a bunch of murderers and rapists.&rdquo; Simba angrily dismissed. <br />&ldquo;Please, you must understand.&rdquo; Amri pleaded. <br />&ldquo;No, I understand that you are lord of the Pride Lands. Not some criminal, and I will not allow you to be hunted like a dog. We face them tomorrow, and you will stand at our side, understand?!&rdquo; Simba asserted. Amri gave a brief smile, deciding not to push it further and agreed. &ldquo;Good, now the kids have had a long night, we should get some rest. I have a few lionesses watching the entrance and ramp, we should be good tonight.&rdquo; He stated, leading Amri back to Pride rock. Saeska and Nathari followed suit, huddled close together as they walked side by side home. Inside the den, Keyah ran up giving Nathari a brief hug and pat on the head. Kopa stood at her side, waiting his turn to do the same. Patting his back as he held him, he squeezed a good hug before planting himself before him. <br />&ldquo;You alright? We heard you were in a fight with a rogue.&rdquo; Kopa asked. <br />&ldquo;I&rsquo;m alright, I won.&rdquo; Smiling he pat Nathari&rsquo;s shoulder. <br />&ldquo;Training is paying off huh?&rdquo; Laughing he nodded happily. <br />&ldquo;Oh yeah, big help tonight.&rdquo; Smiling he turned his attention to Saeska. He reached for her cheek, giving a quick brush as she leaned into it. <br />&ldquo;Told you, you would find someone you love.&rdquo; Kopa whispered to her with a wink. Saeska smiled, recalling there talk long ago. She didn&rsquo;t say a word; she just kept her warm face on Kopa&rsquo;s. &ldquo;Well, you two should get some rest. Saeska, maybe you could take care of those few cuts and scrapes there?&rdquo; He suggested. She nodded, turning to Nathari. <br />&ldquo;Come on.&rdquo; She said softly, taking him to a quieter corner of the den. Keyah giggled, bumping her rump into Kopa. <br />&ldquo;New love.&rdquo; She whispered. <br />&ldquo;It&rsquo;s always fun.&rdquo; He chuckled, leaning into her lips. She moaned with each smack he landed on hers. <br />&ldquo;You know, we should go find somewhere quiet sometime soon.&rdquo; She suggested with a lick to his lips. <br />&ldquo;Oh I&rsquo;d love that.&rdquo; He stammered, leaning his head to hers. &ldquo;Just a night for the two of us. Cool grass, warm air, bright stars.&rdquo; She giggled leaning into his ear, she whispered something so softly and yet his eyes went wide as she finished. &ldquo;Lover, we tried that, remember?&rdquo; <br />&ldquo;If at first you don&rsquo;t succeed.&rdquo; She giggled playfully. <br />Saeska was already well into bathing the small wounds Nathari suffered as a result of the fight. A few shallow scratches on his shoulder, chest and cheek. They had long stopped bleeding, but she bathed as eagerly as if the wounds were mortal. Nathari enjoyed the stroke of her prickly tongue across his body, combing the hair, smoothing his fur. He hardly felt the sting as it raked across the wounds. Smiling he felt her tongue find an area, just at the base of his ear, licking her way to his cheek, a quick brush under his eye even. Smiling he reached for her paw and placed his atop. She didn&#039;t move, opting to kept bathing his face. She gave a few more licks before pausing, her muzzle still so close to his cheek. She kissed the cut on his cheek softly, and flashed another lick this time nearer his lip. Continuing she began to tug it up with each stroke, feeling her bristled tongue comb through his whiskers. <br />&quot;I love you.&quot; He whispered softly, shifting to meet her face. She stopped bathing him immediately, as if suddenly aware of what she was doing. Nathari waited for an answer. She seemed distant for a moment, still smiling, still the warm face he loved, but she didn&#039;t move. Ready to sigh and look away, she stole his attention, swinging into his lips, she turned his head and kissed him passionately. Her eyes closed, embracing the tender touch of his lips on hers. She pulled his paw closer to him, grasping it in her own. Pulling her lips away, she bit her lip and smiled. <br />&quot;That&#039;s it.&quot; She whispered. Laughing to herself inside, she looked him deep in the eyes. &quot;Nathari, I love you too.&quot; A smile blew across his face, his eyes reeled, lunging in for another kiss, she turned away. &quot;I want, to make something clear.&quot; She said softly, caressing his cheek with her own. <br />&quot;What is it?&quot; He asked. <br />&quot;I&#039;m not ready for cubs, and neither are you.&quot; She stated. &quot;I love you, and you hold my heart. Someday, if were still this strongly connected. I&#039;ll give you all the little cubs that your heart desires. But I&#039;m not ready for that yet. I&#039;m not ready to be a mother.&quot; She insisted, patting his cheek. Grasping her paw, he kissed it and looked back to her. <br />&quot;I understand. I&#039;m not ready to be a father yet I agree.&quot; He admitted. <br />&quot;But you will be soon.&quot; She cut off. &quot;Look how good you are with Aurok and Stara. It&#039;ll be an adventure I&#039;ll never forget. But for now, let&#039;s just, have each other.&quot; She said, grinding her head against his cheek. <br />&quot;You&#039;ve got me.&quot; He replied softly. Saeska moaned, brushing against his mane. <br />&quot;I&#039;m still faster than you though.&quot; She commented with a giggle. <br />&quot;Ha, you think so?&quot; He chuckled. <br />&quot;Care to wager another butt-kiss there lover boy?&quot; She questioned, pausing her affections. <br />&quot;Oh no, I&#039;m not falling for that one again.&quot; He laughed. She pulled him into her arms, flopping him onto his side. Locking herself in his, she rest atop his mane, sighing with pleasure as she stroked his warm body. <br />&quot;Good night.&quot; She whispered. <br />&quot;Night, my love.&quot; <br /><br />Simba wasted no time assembling his crew to go on the attack. Rallying Amri, Kopa, Kovu, Asani and Ni. Ysura took three others with her to reinforce their position. Amri lead the charge and took the crew south to the area Nathari had investigated. Scouring the area though, they only found the body of the leopard he had mentioned, there was little more evidence the creatures had stayed the night. Still, to ensure they were gone, Amri took them a fair distance beyond the boundaries of the Pride Lands and checked thoroughly for any remains. With no more evidence of their prescience, Amri was forced to call it in, bringing the group back home in the late afternoon. After an evening meal, Amri and Simba agreed to remain wary of the potential for further attacks, requesting everyone who wasn&#039;t on patrol to remain nearby in case of another assault from the rogue lions. Ni would take Kopa to casually patrol the southern borders of the kingdom that night, a few other lionesses would do the same, a fair distances closer to home as well. Amri rising up to stretch out his long body, looked to his mate and smiled. <br />&quot;You know, there&#039;s a few things I&#039;d like to discuss with you if you don&#039;t mind my love?&quot; He asked, hinting something else as well with a smile. <br />&quot;Is that so?&quot; She asked, giggling as she rose up to his side. <br />&quot;Just, you know. Some uh, counter measures should they hit us again and whatnot.&quot; He answered softly. He took advantage of her good mood and wrapped his head over her neck, planting soft kisses along the way.<br />&quot;You&#039;re as transparent as water my love.&quot; She giggled, loving each caress of his lips down her neck. Amri relented a moment, letting her gain ahead of him. <br />&quot;Lead the way.&quot; He approved, following right behind her tail. Asani watched the two stroll out the door. <br />&quot;Ride her hard old man.&quot; He whispered, a few of the lionesses including Saeska heard him and laughed. She took straight to Nathari&#039;s side and plopped herself on his back with a thud. <br />&quot;Hey handsome!&quot; She warmly greeted from aside his cheek. Nathari laughed, flicking his tongue out to her chin. <br />&quot;Hello.&quot; He greeted back. <br />&quot;Wanna sneak out and go play?&quot; She whispered in his ear. Letting a laugh escape he asked. <br />&quot;Thinking what I&#039;m thinking.&quot; He suggested, with a cool smile. <br />&quot;Yeah I agree, you could use a bath.&quot; She joked, bounding off of him. &quot;Come on Mr. Nathari, no time for dilly dallying.&quot; Asani shoot up at the sight of her departure. <br />&quot;Whoa whoa, where do you think you&#039;re going speed freak?&quot; He questioned, cutting in front of her. Sierra shook her head, calling back to him. <br />&quot;Asani, let the kid go play!&quot; She protested. <br />&quot;It&#039;s dangerous out tonight.&quot; He argued, turning back to her. <br />&quot;So!? She&#039;s a big girl, let her do what she wants. She knows to come home if there&#039;s trouble.&quot; Sierra continued to press. Grunting he turned back to her smiling face. She leapt into his arms, giving him a brief hug and kiss. With a hard squeeze she let go, leaving a paw on his shoulder. <br />&quot;Thank you, you&#039;re always looking out for me. But don&#039;t worry, I&#039;m just heading over to the rocks south of here. I&#039;m not even out of ear shot, k?&quot; She insisted. Nathari finally caught up to her side while Asani contemplated his decision. <br />&quot;Alright, within ear shot?&quot; He asked firmly. Nodding eagerly she loosed her paw. &quot;Fine then, get outta here kids. Don&#039;t do anything stupid now.&quot; <br />&quot;She&#039;s got me to defend her, remember?&quot; Nathari reminded him. Smiling he looked to Nathari. <br />&quot;Oh yeah, that&#039;s right. In that case get your asses inside.&quot; He joked. Nathari brushed off the joke while Saeska giggled at him, leading the way out the door. Rushing down the ramp she broke for the rocks not far from Pride Rock. It was the old den where Scar used to live, and the lionesses usually frequented on a nice warm day. Slanting down with the hill, the rock lined path took them to the den that spun just a little ways up. Climbing to the top, Saeska settled down near the ledge alongside Nathari. Sighing as he sat down, cuddling his body close to hers he asked. <br />&quot;So why did you want to come here?&quot; <br />&quot;Ugh, just to get out of that cave. Pride Rock was cozy the first few nights, but by the heavens I miss sleeping under the stars!&quot; She explained, gazing up to the heavens. &quot;Just look at em. Gorgeous dots, that litter the sky. Clouds among them that never move, and the moon just a sliver draped along them.&quot; <br />&quot;You put that so beautifully.&quot; Nathari complimented, concealing her paw with his. <br />&quot;The stars are the greatest mystery. Are they really the spirits of all the great kings of the past? Or are they something more? Why do some fall? Why do others never move?&quot; She pondered aloud. <br />&quot;Pumbaa thinks there balls of gas, burning billions of miles away.&quot; Nathari contributed. <br />&quot;He might be right, or maybe Simba&#039;s right. Who knows?&quot; She continued to wonder gazing up to the heavens. &quot;Just look at them.&quot; Nathari swung his head up and gazed to the heavens. Millions of stars littered the sky, some the strangest of colors, red, yellow, blue even. Some sparkled while others seemed like a fixed light. But all of them lay strewn about crystal clear night, drawing the wonder in their minds to what they could be. Nathari had seen them hundreds of times, but never really took the time to appreciate them. Glancing to the northern sky, a luminous flash stole their attention as a shooting star flew across the length of the sky in a near instant, vanishing just as swiftly as it came in the distant southern sky. <br />&quot;Wow!&quot; Saeska exclaimed. &quot;Gotta make a wish.&quot; She giggled, closing her eyes. Thinking of her wish, she opened her eyes slowly turning to Nathari. Confused she tapped his shoulder, snaring his attention from the sky. &quot;Come on! Make one too!&quot; She insisted. <br />&quot;It&#039;s already come true.&quot; He smiled, looking deep into her eyes. Laughing she turned away a moment. <br />&quot;Oh that&#039;s so cheesy.&quot; She stammered, shaking her head. <br />&quot;It&#039;s true.&quot; He insisted, rubbing her paw. &quot;What more in this world, could I ever want. I have family, I have friends, and I have you.&quot; His words spoken with sincerity. She raised an eyebrow, glancing to him. <br />&quot;There&#039;s nothing more you want?&quot; She asked, giggling nervously. <br />&quot;If I want anything, it&#039;s to make you as happy as you make me.&quot; He answered, leaning in for a kiss. Closing her eyes, she took his lips and massaged them with her own. Letting a soft moan escape as she kissed him over and over. Pulling away she smiled.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br />&quot;You really do love me, don&#039;t you?&quot; She whispered. <br />&quot;Always.&quot; He whispered back closing his eyes. <br />&quot;I made a good choice then.&quot; Saeska said biting her lip. <br />&quot;Yeah.&quot; He sighed, brushing his cheek to hers. Saeska embraced him, eagerly brushing him back. She licked across his cheek, just shy of his ear. Bathing her way down to his lips for another kiss. Nathari caught her tongue and locked his lips on hers once more. Their mouths opened up, her tongue escaping to his mouth she bathed him inside, wrapping along his cheek and entangling his tongue. Breaking away, their lips let a trickle of saliva dangle between. Her eyes half closed, she stared longingly at him. Nathari pulled her closer, her head found its way into his mane, nuzzling under his chin she embraced him. Carrying on a few moments longer before pausing, reflecting on the words Vitani told her. She gave thought to her body, closing her eyes, she could feel no hint of a heat within her. She withdrew from his mane to meet his eyes with a smile. <br />&quot;Let&#039;s blow this rock.&quot; She suggested. Darting to her feet, Nathari barely had time to clamber to his and catch up. She shot down to the rocky path below and out into the savannah. Her head swinging to the night sky she opened her mouth and smiled wide. Giggling she flopped to her side, rolling back and forth along the soft grass, she closed her eyes welcoming the tingling feel of it across her body. Halting flat on her back, she looked up to see Nathari right next to her, smiling as he looked down. Her tongue was protruding out, paws dangling in every direction, he watched her chest rise and fall with her breathing. Bowing down, he softly bathed her chest, a quick lick across before turning to the length and brushing down. She flung her head back, loving the feel of his bristly tongue flowing down her chest, his breath tickling her with each exhale. He bathed down the cleft of her chest to the soft belly below. Her breathing grew rapid as he licked lower, toward her tits. She felt his tongue lap around and lick each one of her protruding nipples. She closed her eyes, enticed by his eager efforts to tease her. <br />Feeling him go lower, she anticipated him going for her most delicate of places. His tongue pressed by, but did not find its way. Instead Nathari giggled, letting his mouth refresh his drying tongue, and resumed his bathing at her thigh. Licking his way up, he paused, grasping her feet with his paw he took each toe and kissed it with the softest touch of his lips.<br />He took to his tongue work again, licking back down the length of her leg, giving her tits another bout of teasing. Along her left leg now he cleaned, brushing her thigh with his free paw as he groomed up to her feet once more. Again he caressed each toe with a tender kiss, smiling as he looked down at her face. Saeska was entranced at the loving touch of his lips against her body, accented more by her eagerly swishing tail. He neglected to bath her on the way back down, opting instead to rest his body near her rump, his head on her belly. <br />&quot;You&#039;re so beautiful.&quot; He whispered, giving a soft kiss to her nipple. <br />&quot;I love you, Nathari.&quot; She stammered. &quot;But please, don&#039;t talk.&quot; She pleaded. <br />&quot;You&#039;re right.&quot; He agreed. &quot;We don&#039;t need words right now.&quot; Saeska nodded, throwing her head back once more, she gazed up at the stars. Nathari began to suckle at each of her nipples, gently tugging them as he released. At the same time, his paw crept up, searching for the folds at the base of her body. Letting just a single finger massage between them, he continued to pleasure her belly by suckling her tits. Saeska sighed with pleasure from his massage, stammering from a mix of the cool ground, and the nervousness of his teasing. Her wetness built up on his paw, he would take it and circle her tits with her juices that would accumulate and gently clean it with his tongue. <br />She shuddered each time he withdrew his paw from her body. She wanted to feel him there again; the soft massage he gave was so soothing. Nathari stopped suckling and started down on her folds. Kissing the soft flesh, he ran his paws under her backside and started to stroke her as he licked along her moist slit. Saeska could barely catch her breath. Each lick only made her desire the next, as the rocking motion of his paws along her back made her push herself into his muzzle. Nathari loved the taste of her juices, eventually he was forced to stop stroking her back. Using a free paw to open her body wider so he could delve in further. He skimmed along her virgin opening, it was almost painful, but Saeska never protested. Her legs twitched with each stroke inside, while Nathari grew hard between his legs. <br />He could tease no more. It began to ache horribly, a craving to be inside her. Climbing up her body, he wrapped his paws under her neck. His face seemed somewhat nervous, gazing into her eyes. She felt him between her legs. A hard stiff penis, gently pressed against the folds of her vagina. Slowly she closed her eyes, pulling his lips to hers. He kissed her eagerly, raising his backside to free his member. He let her legs straddle him, resting on his thighs. He began prodding along; trying desperately to find the entrance he worked so hard to please. Groaning with the kiss, he felt it flick across his tip. He back tracked and found the warm flesh beneath. Pushing, he felt it part, but struggled to get inside. Saeska gave the deepest shudder yet, feeling him press against her virgin opening, even recoiling a bit with each push. His determination would pay off, giving one more push he broke through, feeling her walls part inside as he sunk inside. Saeska broke from his lips and gasped. He was just about half way in. <br />Grunting he began slow movements out, before pressing back inside her. Each time he could feel his hard penis parting her walls as if it were the first time, tingling him most as his tip. She was so very tight, so moist and nearly impossible it seemed to fully penetrate. Saeska moaned loudly with each press into her body, he was much bigger then she thought. His strokes inside began to loosen her; he finally sunk just passed half way. He slacked his jaw, panting loudly just off the side of her neck, Nathari groaned with each push inside her. Like a spasm building up, his balls contracted, with little warning he released, gushing his seed within.<br />&nbsp;Saeska knew what it was immediately, his hot sperm coating her walls and seeping its way deeper inside her. His penis twitched with each jet released, filling her with his newly matured seed. She felt it swelling up inside her, parting the walls he couldn&#039;t with his member. Panting the torrent slowed to a halt, catching his breath a moment he gently stroked back and forth within. To her surprise, he remained quite firm inside her. It wasn&#039;t long before he was back to the pace he had set before. She cringed with each press in, he was finally sliding into her depths, feeling him press against her womb, he at last found her deepest reaches. Nathari still wasn&#039;t all the way in on his part. But the gush of seed he felt as he pressed into her vault was evidence enough he found her reaches. The wet sperm, streamed along his balls and down her backside. Gently he withdrew before delving back in, pressing her vaginas depths with each push, feeling the kiss of her cervix on the tip of his member. <br />He reaffirmed his stance, shuffling to keep himself locked in and began short rapid movements inside. Never letting himself withdraw much more then the length of his sheath he began thrusting into her body. Saeska bounced with each entry, her eyes closed tight with Nathari&#039;s. His head still just off to the side of her neck, panting hard as he mated her. Saeska became aware of what she was doing; she felt dirty letting him hump at her like this. At the same time though, an instinctual yearning was being fulfilled, a desire to be one with someone close to her heart. <br />She ignored the dirty sensation, choosing to embrace the thrusts bound into her body. His movements so slickened by the lubrication of his seed, he was bringing her up to orgasm easily. Her claws reached into his mane, digging lightly as the tingles ran up her body. Her body took over, she squealed as she was brought to climax. The pulsing squeeze within her body made Nathari all the more eager to continue, she let her head flop back, her legs kicking off the side of his body as she was coming down. It was intense, even thrilling to her, feeling him pound inside, her body bouncing with every thrust. <br />Nathari was running out of breath, he pushed hard for his own release. Saeska too was growing exhausted, and was almost eager for him to finish. This time like a burning sensation growing from his testicles he felt the release coming. Pushing harder he forced the release, and with a final press inside he sprayed within. His head flung up, nose cringed and fangs bared as he flooded once more inside Saeska&rsquo;s already lubricated vagina. She could feel him, the splashes against her vault with each spray. She placed her paws on her chest, groaning with pleasure as he ejaculated repeatedly. Nathari stammered, his face relaxing as his torrent slowed. He couldn&#039;t maintain himself anymore, growing soft he nearly fell out of Saeska&#039;s body; his soaked sheath quickly concealed his sore pink flesh. Her slit leaking his sperm, Nathari lowered himself atop of her and sighed with relief. They let the world stand still to this moment, feeling his wetness inside while he lay just under her chin. <br />A few moments would pass; he rolled onto his side, taking her into his mane with a smile, still softly panting. She grasped him tight, stroking his back thinking of what they had just done with a smile. She thought she would be mad at herself, or angry, but none of these were true. Just the pure blissful warmth of his mane, the slow rise and fall from his breathing, the stars still shining overhead and the cool air of the night soothing them from their exertion. Nathari from exhaustion alone was falling fast asleep, and bound within his grasp she closed her eyes, bathed in his golden mane she passed out, feeling great pride in her loving mate. <br /><br />Nathari and Saeska didn&#039;t move at all in the night, the suns rise revealed them still in the savannah just outside of Pride Rock. While they dreamed away the early morning, a shadow had begun to creep up on them. The dark figure of a lion, shadowed their bodies. Smiling the creature took its claws to Nathari&#039;s throat, just shy of Saeska&#039;s chin. With the other paw, he parted his eyes, forcing him awake. As he woke, the creature was stunned just as much as Nathari. The figure before him struck him with horror, while the lion smiled and let a shallow laugh escape. <br />&quot;Little, Nathari. I&#039;ll be damned.&quot; He said. Nathari didn&#039;t reply, the look of absolute horror still stuck on his face. It was the one lion he hoped never to see. &quot;What&#039;s the matter?&quot; He whispered. &quot;Don&#039;t remember your old master?&quot; He chuckled deviously. In a snap his face turned more grotesque and angry. &quot;Get up.&quot; He whispered. &quot;Don&#039;t wake up your little slut.&quot; Nathari didn&#039;t move still. His eyes calmed down, but he wasn&#039;t willing to comply with Ezea&#039;s demand. His claws sunk a little further as he darted down to his ear. &quot;Get.. Up.. Or I&#039;ll make you watch.&quot; He ordered. Nathari slammed his eyes, and slowly complied, gently lowering Saeska down he got up, while he straddled himself across her. &quot;Beat it, or I&#039;ll kill her when I&#039;m done.&quot; He demanded. By this time Saeska started to stir. Quickly thinking, Nathari bolted for the southern border of the kingdom. Ezea nearly got off her to intercept him till he realized he ran the wrong way from pride rock. <br />&quot;Fucking moron.&quot; He quipped returning his attention to Saeska. She groaned and slowly opened her eyes to see this strange lion on top of her. In a shriek she tried to get up, but easily he over powered her and forced her to stay down. <br />&quot;Get off me!&quot; She cried out. <br />&quot;Shut up, and stay still and I might actually let you stay alive long enough for you to enjoy this.&quot; He demanded. Hovering his rump over her tail he laughed under his breath. &quot;Now, try not to scream. At least not till I fuck your ass.&quot; He mocked; Saeska wrestled with him again but couldn&#039;t break free of his hold on her. <br />&quot;Don&#039;t do this! You can&#039;t do this to me, please!&quot; She begged. Nathari was coming in now, full speed and aimed square at his backside. Laughing as he held over her, his face quickly contorted as Nathari struck. Slamming his head straight into Ezeamaka&#039;s genitals he nearly sent him up and over Saeska. Closing his eyes, he squealed in pain, flopping over to his side. Nathari leaned down to his face. <br />&quot;You ever touch my lover again. I&#039;ll rip them off and feed them to you!&quot; He shouted with a spit to his eye. Quickly he rushed to Saeska and pulled her up. &quot;Saeska are you ok?&quot; He pleaded, squeezing her tight. She was shaking badly, so frightened by what had just happened. <br />&quot;I-i-i... I think so.&quot; She stammered. <br />&quot;Come on!&quot; Nathari pressed, pushing her off toward Pride Rock. The two raced quickly to the ramp and up. Darting inside she saw her father just waking and dove into his arms. <br />&quot;DADDY!!&quot; She screamed, with tears coming down her face. <br />&quot;Baby! Oh Saeska what happened?&quot; He asked, holding her tight. She tried to explain, but amongst the tears no clear word could sound. Nathari stepped in and spoke up. <br />&quot;Amri, its Ezeamaka.&quot; He explained. &quot;He&#039;s here. He woke us up just outside.&quot; Hanging his head he told him what else had happened. &quot;He, just tried to rape Saeska.&quot; Amri glared at him a moment, releasing his daughter. With a snarl he shouted. <br />&quot;He what?!&quot; <br />&quot;He&#039;s just outside. I put him down hard, I stopped him but he&#039;s still out there.&quot; Nathari explained nervously. Amri roared in fury, bolting from the cave door. The whole pride woke from his outburst. Nathari turned to the others. <br />&quot;Guys get up! Ezeamaka&#039;s just outside he attacked us! Amri&#039;s going after him!&quot; Asani, Ni, Kopa and Kovu didn&#039;t waste any time. They bolted to their feet and rushed out the door. Nathari nearly joined them, but felt someone tug at his tail. Saeska stood behind him; her eyes filled with tears, his heart sank to his stomach and rushed to her. Wrapping her up he held her tight as she cried. &quot;It&#039;s ok my love, I got him.&quot; He comforted. &quot;Did he get you? You know did he?&quot; Saeska shook her head. <br />&quot;No.&quot; She stammered. Nathari kissed her neck trying to coax her down a bit. Simba pat his shoulder after rousing the lionesses. <br />&quot;Don&#039;t leave the den till we&#039;ve check around outside. If anyone comes now, we&#039;re the only males.&quot; He insisted. Nathari nodded, turning back to the lionesses. He saw Hakima, Keyah, Kinu, Vitani, Kiara and Sierra rushing over. Hakima clasped behind her daughter and held her. <br />&quot;My poor baby? What&#039;s wrong?&quot; She pleaded. <br />&quot;Ezeamaka attacked us. He tried to rape her, but I stopped him.&quot; Hakima&#039;s eyes welled up with the same fury as Amri&#039;s. <br />&quot;The one who attacked our pride last?&quot; She demanded.<br />&quot;Yeah.&quot; Hakima roared, swatting at a bone on the floor. <br />&quot;That pig suckling son of a bitch!&quot; She shouted. &quot;Amri is out there?!&quot; She interrogated further. Nathari gave an eager nod. &quot;He knows nothing of the wrath he&#039;s incited; Amri will take his head for this!&quot; <br />Outside, Amri was frantically searching for any sign of his child&#039;s attempted rapist. Ezeamaka was struggling to get up still, inching his way to his feet cautiously. <br />&quot;That little motherfucker. I&#039;ll kill him for this.&quot; Ezeamaka said to himself, coaxing himself to his feet. Glancing behind him he saw Amri, searching in the distance with the others coming up behind him. &quot;Got his attention alright.&quot; Ezeamaka said to himself once more. With a quick burst he flew from the scene of the crime, but Amri caught sight of his escape. <br />&quot;There you are you son of a bitch!&quot; He roared, bolting after him. <br />&quot;Amri wait up!&quot; Kopa shouted behind. He was really pushing to gain on Ezeamaka. He glanced behind to see Amri in hot pursuit, Ezea made a break for the river, hoping to escape out of the boundaries of the Pride Lands. Amri was gaining on him though, a paws distance every second his pace was more tempered then Ezeamaka&#039;s. Amri saw the river up ahead, but he was hot on his heels now. With a shrill cry he lunged and swept out Ezeamaka&#039;s legs fumbling him to the ground. The two rolled briefly before bounding to their feet. He had no choice now, square off with Amri, or die. Amri growled, his glistening teeth and razor sharp claws ready to cut through the rapists flesh. Kopa and the others finally caught up, huffing and puffing Amri called to them. <br />&quot;Stay back! He&#039;s mine!&quot; He ordered, returning to Ezeamaka. <br />&quot;Come on old lion; let&#039;s see if you still got it.&quot; He growled, riling himself up. <br />&quot;Oh I&#039;ll make you suffer for this mistake, boy! No one, and I mean not a damned soul attacks my daughter!&quot; He shouted in rage. Ezeamaka swung his head up and laughed. <br />&quot;Hahahaha, that weak little cunt was your daughter? Oh Amri, I thought you could do better than that.&quot; He mocked. Amri bellowed another gutful roar at him while Ezeamaka kept his cocky smile. <br />&quot;Amri!&quot; Asani shouted. &quot;Wisen up! He&#039;s taunting you to get you to fuck up! Cool it or he&#039;s gonna take you!&quot; <br />&quot;I know this boy!&quot; He retorted. &quot;I&#039;ve had enough of you, Ezeamaka. You should have learned the last time we traded blows, but I will beat this lesson into you once more!&quot; He challenged, lunging for Ezeamaka. The two grappled up onto their feet, Ezeamaka broke his grip and took a swing for his face. Amri parried him; throwing the blow aside he caught him with his own across Ezeamaka&#039;s nose. Howling he backed as Amri took to the charge once again. Throwing himself on top he bit into his neck, trying to wrestle him down. Ezeamaka swept his leg and snapped his head up, breaking his grip as he gracefully swung around swatting Amri&#039;s cheek with a solid kick. Bawling Amri backed off as Ezeamaka brought on a barrage of blows aimed for his face. The first caught near his left eye, but the next three were blocked with Amri catching his paw and slamming it to the ground. He wound up and back handed his face, disoriented, Amri threw another at his chin, following it with a swipe hard across his face. Swinging around with the blow Ezeamaka threw a back kick to Amri&#039;s chest and winded him, cutting him in the process. <br />Pressing a paw against his chest, he checked for blood which easily stained him. Ezeamaka flung himself back; he had enough distance to charge for Amri, planting a hard slam that threw him to the ground rolling. Leaping into the air he tried to slam down on Amri&#039;s chest but he rolled immediately away, bounding back to his feet. Ezeamaka charged again, but his aim was poor, Amri caught him and with his head locked he spun, contorting Ezeamaka over and onto his back. Amri swung around and pinned him, slamming hard blows aimed for his head but hammering his arm instead. While winding up, Ezeamaka threw his forehead into Amri&#039;s face. He cried out from the blow that hit hard on his nose and backed off a little, allowing Ezeamaka to kick up, cracking another shot to his chin. Darting to his feet he snagged Amri into a head lock, claws digging deep he lowered him to the ground, squeezing his neck. Amri struggled with the pain of the hold all of a moment before in a howl of rage he hoisted Ezeamaka up into the air. Amri on his hind legs fell back, slamming Ezeamaka hard onto the ground as Amri took a moment to recover. <br />&quot;Mother fucker.&quot; Ezeamaka coughed, trying to get back to his feet. He slammed his legs hard, and were difficult to move. Amri rose to his feet, walking over to Ezeamaka who was still flat on his back for the moment. Amri planted a foot on his belly and grabbed him tight by the mane. His face scowling in rage, teeth bared he growled rolling back with Ezeamaka. Roaring he threw him up into the air, flailing a fair distance behind him. Rolling over he looked to him, he was on the ground motionless. Grunting he rose to his feet and decided to finish this. Loosing another roar he charged for his motionless body, nearing the end of his charge Ezeamaka sprung to life, catching Amri&#039;s arm he hoisted him up and threw him into the air. Rolling and tumbling as he crashed the ground, Ezeamaka charged, leaping into the air his slam found flesh, pounding Amri&#039;s chest. Pinning him he wound up and landed a solid blow across his face, Amri spat up with the strike that left him seeing stars. Ezeamaka wound up another, Amri bounded up, halting his arm and with his free paw he swung, cutting beneath it. Ezeamaka barked, withdrawing his arm to his chest. Amri swung to his face, landing hard, the blow threw Ezeamaka to the ground.<br />Amri huffed a puffed, shaking out the dizziness of his previous strike. The two got up nearly simultaneously. They were ready to go another round pacing each other. Ezeamaka with a trail of blood streaming down his arm, while Amri bled from the wound on his chest. They lunged for each other, back up in a grapple on their hind legs. Amri broke the hold pushing him back, as they landed they both took a hard swing for each other, their paws clapping hard with a solid crack. Ezeamaka withdrew his paw shaking it along with Amri.<br />&quot;Stop fucking doing that!&quot; He shouted angrily. Amri growled, charging once again for him, he leapt high into the air, his body turning as his legs flicked out, trying to drop kick Ezeamaka. Dropping himself to the ground he dodged the flying kick as Amri descended behind him and turned to face him. Ezeamaka swung around, throwing a blow over Amri&#039;s head as he ducked down, turning he fired another kick that sailed over Ezeamaka&#039;s head. Roaring he tried to swipe at Amri&#039;s feet, which he leapt to avoid. Amri lunged for him once again, hoisting him onto his hind legs. This time he kept his grip tight, trying to force him to the ground, but Ezeamaka&#039;s balance was solid, grunting, roaring and spitting and as hard as each of them tried neither could get them to submit to the mercy of the ground. His patience worn out, Ezeamaka let a roar build up before leaping up and kicking Amri hard in the gut with both feet. This blow knocked him to the ground with Ezeamaka underneath him. Throwing him off the side, Ezeamaka bounded to his feet while Amri rolled over, trying to get up he clenched his chest in agony. He laughed, circling around behind Amri with a devious smirk. Wiping at his nose as he arrived at his backside, he taunted. <br />&quot;Well, don&#039;t think you&#039;ll be needing these anymore.&quot; He threatened, staring at his genitals. Winding up for the blow, he neglected Amri&#039;s hind legs which leapt up and kicked his face with a crushing strike, snapping Ezeamaka&#039;s head back. Backing off, he staggered around quite helplessly. The blow broke his nose as blood started to pour from under the paw he used to try to conceal it. Amri roared as he turned around, snapping blows to Ezeamaka&#039;s face over and over. The hits were overwhelming him now, and with the last few strikes Amri shouted. <br />&quot;Never, touch, my daughter, again!&quot; He barked, upper cutting him sending him flat on his back. Ezeamaka coughed repeatedly, spitting up blood. &quot;Have you had enough yet!? Huh boy!? You&#039;ve the nerve to show that face!?&quot; He taunted. Ezeamaka wiped his lip, glancing to Amri he spat up another bit of blood. <br />&quot;Die in a fire, bitch.&quot; He quietly fired back. <br />&quot;Fuck that.&quot; Asani budded in, joining alongside Amri with the others. &quot;I say kill the little mother fucker and be done with it.&quot; Ezeamaka laughed at him, coughing once more. <br />&quot;That&#039;s right, Amri. Come on, finish me off.&quot; Ezeamaka quietly requested. Amri walked over; snaring his mane in his paws he raised his other ready to strike. <br />&quot;For all you&#039;ve done, the murder, the rape and ravage of this land you deserve this fate.&quot; Amri declared. <br />&quot;And what about Serwa!?&quot; He shouted. Amri was shocked; he didn&#039;t understand how he knew Serwa. He immediately recalled her face, her smile; she was his love so long ago before he left his home. &quot;Haha, that&#039;s right.&quot; He laughed. <br />&quot;Speak! How do you know that name?!&quot; Amri demanded. Ezeamaka continued laughing before answering. <br />&quot;Even the most sickly of lions never forget their mother.&quot; Amri released him, slowly backing away. <br />&quot;No.&quot; He stammered. <br />&quot;Where&#039;s her justice Amri, abandoned to raise your son alone? Praying for your return everyday! Watching the distance for you, growing sick, neglecting her own needs, and her sons!&quot; He shouted.<br />&quot;No, this can&#039;t be.&quot; He shivered, shaking his head. &quot;She wasn&#039;t, I mean she-&quot; <br />&quot;Had me brewing in her belly while you scurried away like the rat you are!&quot; Ezeamaka cut off. &quot;Oh I&#039;ve been waiting for this a long time. You killed your own brother, and left your mate and son to die!&quot;<br />&quot;Amri!&quot; Ni rushed to his side. &quot;Amri, this can&#039;t be true?&quot; <br />&quot;Oh it is, that&#039;s the beauty of it. He&#039;s a fucking traitorous rat and he knows it.&quot; He laughed, rising to his feet. Ezeamaka glanced behind him to see his warriors approaching from behind. &quot;Ahh, sweet justice.&quot; He sighed, turning back to them. <br />&quot;Justice? You&#039;ve the nerve to call what you&#039;ve done justice?! You&#039;re a cowardly butcher!&quot; Ni retorted. &quot;Maybe Amri doesn&#039;t have it in him to finish you off, but I swear you will lie dead on the ground before this conflict ends!&quot; <br />&quot;We&#039;ll see.&quot; He growled as the others approached. Eight other lions took to Ezeamaka&#039;s back. &quot;See what I bring to this to this war!&quot; He announced. The lions behind him roared in cheer. &quot;You&#039;ll be picking up the pieces of your loved ones before this ends, that I swear to you, Ni!&quot; <br />&quot;Master.&quot; One of the lions called out. Ezeamaka glanced back then to the rear of Amri and the others. Twelve lionesses lead by Simba were on the approach. <br />&quot;This isn&#039;t over, father. Oh believe me, you&#039;ll answer to mother yourself, soon enough.&quot; Ezeamaka warned. Turning he rushed to join the others and fled from the battle. The lionesses once reaching them attempted to pursue but Simba called them off. Rushing over to the five he settled before them. <br />&quot;Hey, you guys ok? Everything alright?&quot; He asked urgently. <br />&quot;It&#039;s bad dad, it&#039;s really bad.&quot; Kopa replied. Amri covered his face, stammering he tried to conceal the tears escaping. Ni and Asani wrapped him up, holding him tight. <br />&quot;It&#039;s ok Amri.&quot; They comforted. He shook his head still. <br />&quot;My son.&quot; He cried. &quot;Serwa, what have I done?&quot;<br /><br />Asani and Ni escorted Amri home between the two, he managed to ease up on his tears before arriving inside. Saeska and Hakima both rushed to him, sweeping themselves into his arms. Giving him a good squeeze and a kiss, Hakima withdrew and examined his body. Cuts and scrapes littered his sides, his paws were stained with blood, and his chest was still bleeding lightly. <br />&quot;Oh my love. You poor thing, come settle down.&quot; Hakima comforted, guiding him down. <br />&quot;Thank you love. Saeska, are you alright baby?&quot; Amri asked urgently. <br />&quot;I&#039;m ok daddy, Nathari saved me, remember?&quot; She reminded him, Amri nodded briefly turning to Nathari. <br />&quot;Thank you boy, thank you so much.&quot; He praised, resting his head in his paws as Hakima bathed the wounds on his side. <br />&quot;You&#039;re welcome Amri. I couldn&#039;t let him do it to her.&quot; He replied softly and yet happily. <br />&quot;Is that so?&quot; Amri sighed, resting his eyes. <br />&quot;I love her.&quot; Nathari said softly, kissing Saeska&#039;s neck. Hakima ceased her bathing a moment and glanced to him with a smile. <br />&quot;She&#039;s taken a good mate, I&#039;m very proud of you, my daughter.&quot; She beamed, looking to her as well. Saeska giggled nervously as Amri&#039;s head rose up again. <br />&quot;Mate?&quot; He asked, glancing to Hakima then back to his daughter. Saeska bowed her head with a smile, trying to shy away from her father. &quot;My girl?&quot; He asked once again. <br />&quot;I love him with all my heart daddy. He&#039;ll be good to me.&quot; She answered, bowing down to him. Smiling he could feel the tears welling up again. <br />&quot;My baby girls got herself a lover.&quot; He stammered. <br />&quot;And she loves her daddy, so you let mommy fix you up ok?&quot; She insisted, pawing his ear. Amri nodded happily as she lunged in, kissing his cheek and licking it. Nuzzling him for a while she eventually withdrew, whispering in his ear. &quot;I love you daddy.&quot; <br />&quot;I love you to baby.&quot; <br />&quot;Nathari! Saeska! We need to talk to you.&quot; Simba called out from the entrance. Asani and the other boys had gathered to him as well. Amri began to rise up to join them but Hakima pressed his backside back down. <br />&quot;No husband.&quot; She insisted. <br />&quot;But?&quot; <br />&quot;Amri, please rest. You need to recover, Hakima keep him safe.&quot; Simba requested. Nala passed the two and headed towards Simba to join the discussion. Shaking his head he halted her. &quot;Please Nala-&quot; <br />&quot;Don&#039;t you please Nala me! We have something serious going on and you&#039;re not turning me away. You wanna have your little moot, let&#039;s go.&quot; She demanded taking the lead up to the peak of pride rock. The crew followed close behind; reaching the summit they took a seat and sat in a circle. Simba looked at the grim faces on the others and decided to speak first. <br />&quot;What happened out there exactly?&quot; <br />&quot;Like I said dad, it&rsquo;s bad.&quot; Kopa answered. &quot;Amri fought with Ezeamaka, and won. But, he&#039;s the son of his former mate. He&#039;s Amri&#039;s son.&quot; <br />&quot;Worse yet, he&#039;s on a self proclaimed mission of retribution.&quot; Ni threw in. &quot;He won&#039;t stop till he kills Amri, and takes out everyone who&#039;s aided him. He&#039;s not alone either; those eight other lions are members of a kingdom known as the High Reach. Well trained warriors who are taught to fight or kill.&quot;<br />&quot;Uhh.&quot; Nathari sighed, interrupting. <br />&quot;What?&quot; Ni asked. <br />&quot;I only saw four of our warriors with them that I recognized and those are basically just Ezeamaka&#039;s friends. Those other lions he was with, I don&#039;t remember them at all.&quot; He explained. <br />&quot;You&#039;ve been away from home for a while Nathari.&quot; Kovu interjected. <br />&quot;Not that long. Warriors are usually picked around the age you guys found me, and none of those guys were any of my old pride members, there too old.&quot; Nathari retorted, looking to Ni. <br />&quot;So only four of them don&#039;t suck at fighting. Little better odds.&quot; Asani surmised. &quot;Any in particular we should worry about?&quot; <br />&quot;Ezeamaka is the strongest out of them, but the only other one is Gahvrah, he&#039;s a rather nasty jerk. He kept picking fights with the others back home.&quot; <br />&quot;So he&#039;s Amri&#039;s son? Is there no reasoning with him at all?&quot; Nala asked. Saeska spit on the ground at the question. Nala and the others looked to her in surprise. <br />&quot;Ezeamaka, is a monster. There&#039;s no question of that in my mind. He&#039;ll use the fact he&#039;s my daddy&#039;s son in blood and exploit him.&quot; She fumed, glancing to the faces all around her. &quot;We can&#039;t let my daddy fight him again, ever! If he does, he will lose. Daddy won&#039;t do it, he won&#039;t kill him, he&#039;s strong but his heart is soft. There must be some way to stop him!&quot; She insisted. <br />&quot;Akinlana and his children are the only ones I think strong enough to beat him.&quot; Nathari suggested. <br />&quot;How many brothers do Amri have?&quot; Nala asked. <br />&quot;He&#039;s the youngest of five.&quot; Simba interrupted. She turned swiftly to him and glared. <br />&quot;How did you know that?&quot; She demanded softly.<br />&quot;He told me in confidence the first day he came here.&quot; Simba admitted. <br />&quot;Nariku, Tasani, Khiros, Amri and Jelani. They were Akinlana&#039;s five children. When Jelani challenged Amri and died, Amri fled in pain. He and Jelani were twins.&quot; Nathari informed them. &quot;That&#039;s the story I was told when I was little.&quot; <br />&quot;You didn&#039;t think he was the Amri from your home when you met him?&quot; Ni asked. <br />&quot;Honestly no, one of my litter mates was named Amri, also one of the prides we overthrew successfully before we met you had a lion named Amri, seemed a common name.&quot; Nathari explained. <br />&quot;If Ezeamaka&#039;s acting on his own then, maybe someone can convince the other warriors in the High Reach to help us. Maybe someone who knows the pride?&quot; Ni suggested. Simba smiled liking the idea, seeing agreeing faces all around him. <br />&quot;Good idea, if we can convince this king we&#039;re in danger he might be eager to send help.&quot; Simba nodded. <br />&quot;Hold on!&quot; Saeska protested. &quot;Getting out of here means getting passed him; you can&#039;t send Nathari to his death!&quot; <br />&quot;Calm down Saeska, I&#039;ve got an idea for that one.&quot; Nala assured her. &quot;Simba, call a negotiation with Ezeamaka. He&#039;ll see it as an opportunity to get what he wants maybe. Tell him were willing to trade Amri for the safety of the kingdom.&quot; <br />&quot;Then what?&quot; Asani questioned. <br />&quot;Then.&quot; She curtly turned to him. &quot;We send out our speediest runners to The High Reach to convince there king we need aid.&quot; <br />&quot;What happens when he tries to claim his trade?&quot; Ni asked. <br />&quot;Forget that arrogant pig, he&#039;ll never get his paws on Amri. But it could buy us some needed time to get them out. We&rsquo;ll string the negotiations along, say we need some sign he&rsquo;s willing to keep things peaceful, then by the time he finds out he&rsquo;s been had, Saeska and Nathari will have returned.&quot; She suggested. Simba smiled nuzzling her cheek.<br />&quot;Good idea, genius.&quot; He smiled. <br />&quot;You should know by now all my ideas are genius.&quot; She giggled with a wink. <br />&quot;I&#039;ll have Zazu send word tomorrow afternoon.&quot; Simba began. &quot;Nathari, Saeska, eat up well tonight; drink as much as you need. You two are the fastest runners we have, you need to get there quick and speak with Akinlana directly. I&#039;ll ask Rafiki to come by with some of his fruits; I&#039;ll imprint my paw on your shoulders to show my urgency.&quot;<br />&quot;I don&#039;t know if I want to leave daddy when he&#039;s hurt like this.&quot; Saeska softly protested.<br />&quot;Saeska.&quot; Asani spoke up. &quot;I&#039;ll protect him. Don&#039;t worry. You just get to the High Reach in one piece. And for the love of the stars get back here safe.&quot; Saeska bounded to him, wrapping herself in his paw. &quot;Can&#039;t lose you now kid.&quot; He whispered. <br />&quot;You won&#039;t.&quot; She immediately answered. &quot;Take care of daddy. Don&#039;t let Ezeamaka get near him.&quot; <br />&quot;You got it.&quot; He smiled, letting her go. The group broke apart, traveling back down to the entrance of pride rock. Amri welcomed his daughter back into his arms while Aurok and Stara rushed over to Nathari, bounding all over him asking what happened. Asani lay close to his two pregnant lovers, kissing them while he explained what happened outside. Ni took his son in his arms, planting himself aside Kinu. Kovu and Kiara took their son and sat aside Simba and Nala, while Dasha leapt from them to play in Simba&#039;s paws. Keyah laid on Kopa&#039;s back, kissing his ear and brushing her paw through his mane. <br />&quot;I&#039;ve made arrangements for us to have some time alone up top tomorrow night.&quot; She whispered. <br />&quot;I love you.&quot; He whispered, kissing her paw. She squeezed his neck, licking and bathing his ear as the other lionesses departed to hunt. The cave fell quiet; each embraced in the warmth of their loved ones. Unsure how long the peace of this moment would last. The threat of bloodshed was coming, and with it the threat that the lives of their loved ones could be lost. There hope now placed, in Nathari and Saeska&#039;s paws, to quell Ezeamaka&#039;s rage before it finds its way into the heart of the Pride Lands. <br /></span>",
  "pools_count": 1,
  "title": "The Pride - Chapter 10",
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