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Original", "description": "A new original fanfic story about Kopa, Simbas lost son. ", "count": "26", "submission_left_submission_id": "250695", "submission_left_file_name": "321839_Silverwolf626_the_pride_-_chapter_10.rtf", "submission_right_submission_id": "287577", "submission_right_file_name": "368874_Silverwolf626_the_pride_-_chapter_12.rtf" } ], "description": "", "description_bbcode_parsed": "", "writing": "Zazu looked down on the lands below, scouring for any signs of the hostile lions that had attacked the previous day. Though the sky was clouded, it was easy enough to search from the air. The vast distances beyond the Pride Lands were a mere glance away as well as the deserts of the outlands. With Pride Rock in the view behind him, he spotted the six lions circled about, while three others seemed dotted off to the east. He took a deep breath before plunging to the earth. \n“Here we go.” He said to himself, swooping just a few feet over head of the crew. “Excuse me! Who calls themselves the leader of this pride?” He called out. Giving a short laugh, Ezeamaka replied. \n“Well looky here boys, the king of the Pride Lands sent us a snack.” A few of the others joined him in a laugh while Zazu shivered at the thought. He flew a little ahead of them and took a swing back around. \n“Once again, who is the leader!” He called out. \n“You are in the presence of Prince Ezeamaka, bird brain.” One of them called out. Zazu rolled his eyes and aimed for the tree branch nearby and settled. Ezeamaka rose to his feet and walked over alone, carrying his devious smirk as he looked up. \n“You here to tell me something worth hearing? Or just to make yourself a snack for my boys.” He questioned. \n“I am the kings Majordomo. And I come with a message for you.” Zazu announced with a bow. \n“Spill it.” Ezeamaka demanded. \n“By the request of the king, he asks you and your fellow lions to join him for negotiations.” \n“What do you think I am, stupid? I toddle my boys into a trap so he can ambush us with his whole kingdom. Fuck your negotiations!” Ezeamaka barked angrily. The others overheard him and decided to join in gathering around him. \n“Don’t ever accuse King Simba of such a deception; he wouldn’t dare butcher a fellow royal! Now, we wish to negotiate a trade to the benefit of us both. In short, we will give Amri into your custody in exchange for no further incursions in our kingdom.” Zazu explained. \n“You’re really giving up Amri? Why the hell should I believe that?” Ezeamaka questioned eagerly. Zazu knew now he had his attention, he seemed quite intrigued at the prospect. \n“Sadly, Simba must do what is in the best interest of his kingdom, not of himself. Though we have grown fond of him, if he is guilty of such crimes then we cannot steal him away from the justice of your kingdom. However, there is much more detail he wishes to go over with you directly.” Zazu answered, hanging his head to feign dismay. Ezeamaka looked to his pride behind him, he took a brief word with one of the elder males at his side. The old lion he spoke with seemed rather nasty. His raggy fur and ruffled mane were pleasantries compared to his face. His eye was sealed shut from a clearly deep wound he took long ago. His left ear was almost completely gone, while his tail seemed severed at the tip, missing his tuft at the end.\n“I might consider it.” Ezeamaka answered, his eyebrow raised with a smile. “But I have my own conditions as well.” \n“Such as?” Zazu asked, leaning down and matching his face. \n“I pick the time and place. Also, if I have to bring all my boys here, you tell your king he can’t bring anymore than nine of his own.” \n“The king will speak with you today; the place is over there in the distance. Do you see the large tree?” He questioned, pointing off towards Rafiki’s tree far off in the distance. “There dwells an elder of our pride, he will act impartially. Because of your, reprehensible behavior towards our kingdom and its denizens I’d say you forfeit your right to pick the time and place.” He countered. “However.” He sighed, pacing across the branch. “Fair is fair, I will tell Simba to only bring eight of his own to the gathering.” \n“Fine. When the sun peaks, I’ll be there. Your king, better not be late. I’m not good with disappointment.” He threatened calmly. \n“He will be there.” Zazu announced, bounding from the branch into the air. He took high into the sky aimed straight for Pride Rock. Ezeamaka looked to his friend and chuckled. \n“Might just walk out of here with him afterall.”\n“Don’t be stupid, boy.” The elder quickly dismissed. “You’d be a damn fool to think he’ll give up Amri so easily.” \n“Gahvrah your paranoia is inspiring and annoying as all hell.” Ezeamaka laughed, casually walked passed him. “Let’s just say if they don’t meet there end, you’ll get to have all the fun you want.” \n“Do not patronize me boy, I will do as I please.” Gahvrah argued quietly. \n“What was that!?” Ezeamaka snapped back. Biting his tongue, Gahvrah hung his head. \n“My apologies, your majesty.” He replied, looking to him momentarily. \n\n“Cuzzy don’t go!” Dasha shouted, reaching up for Nathari. Smiling he bowed down and squeezed him against his cheek. \n“I’ll be fine, don’t worry.” Nathari insisted comforting him. Stara was already cuddled up with Saeska while Aurok waited his turn behind Dasha. \n“You gotta tell me everything about your adventure ok?” Dasha pleaded as he released himself from Nathari’s grip. \n“No problem.” Nathari agreed with a wink. Aurok walked around his cousin and leaned into Nathari’s face for a moment as well. \n“I wish I was going with you. This sounds like it’d be fun.” He complained. \n“Make it sound like it’s the only adventure we’re ever gonna have. We’ll have plenty as you get older I’m sure.” Nathari argued. \n“Yeah I guess.” He sighed; Nathari nudged him bouncing him up a bit. \n“Come on, cheer up. Where’s that famous smile?” He encouraged, bumping him over and over. Giggling he toppled Aurok over, throwing him into a laughing fit. “There we go.” Nathari laughed as well, pulling the young cub to his feet. \n“Ready to go Mr. Nathari?” Saeska asked, taking to his side. \n“Yeah.” He nodded. Simba was set aside Rafiki, bathing his paw in the fresh juices held within a hollowed melon on the floor. He nodded for Nathari, giving him his shoulder Simba pressed his paw on each, imprinting his mark on him. Saeska followed in behind and took her imprint as well. Kopa and Keyah both rushed to them from behind Simba, not long followed by Amri and Hakima. They took Saeska into their arms, switching off kissing her and caressing her back while Keyah moved in closer to her son.\n“Son, please be careful.” Keyah pleaded, pressing her head to his. \n“I will, don’t worry.” He whispered, quietly kissing her cheek. Kopa stole him away, holding him, careful not to distort the imprint on his son’s shoulder. \n“We’ll handle him till you get back. Do you remember the way?” Kopa asked urgently. \n“Yeah, once I get out passed the forest beyond the desert of the outlands, I got it no problem.” Nathari answered proudly. Simba smiled, joining their conversation. \n“Timon, Pumbaa and I know that place very well. We called it home for a long time before we returned here.” He reminisced. Nala giggled, brushing his side up to his cheek. \n“I wonder who talked you into doing that?” \n“Well, it’s time.” Amri announced. Pacing over to his daughter he squeezed one more hug. “Be careful you two.” \n“We will. I love you daddy.” She cooed in his arms. \n“You’re my baby girl, always. I love you so much.” He answered her, stammering a bit as he spoke. She giggled and released herself from his grip. \n“Don’t get too cozy, we’ll be back before you know it.” Nathari proudly stated, making his way to the entrance. Saeska smiled, turning away from her father and joined him. \n“Let’s go love; hopefully Akinlana will listen to us.” Nathari nodded, and burst out the den with Saeska hot on his tail. Amri, Hakima, Simba, Nala, Kopa and Keyah watched from the rock as the two bodies began to fade in the distance. Amri smiled, nodding as they disappeared. \n“Good, they kept north. Out of sight of Ezeamaka I hope.” \n“Yes.” Simba agreed. \n“Sire!” Zazu called aloud overhead. “It won’t be long before you are due to meet with the beast. Best make your choice of who to bring now and move. \n“Right. Kopa, Kovu, Ni, Asani, you guys are in for certain.” Simba decided, pointing them out one by one. \n“I’m going to.” Nala insisted, joining his side. Simba smiled, not up for arguing the idea. \n“Alright. Ysura, you as well.” Sierra bounced to her feet and walked over alongside her. \n“I’m in.” Sierra decided. Vitani rushed to her side. \n“Me too.” \n“Whoa! No way, not in your condition.” Asani interjected. Vitani growled, forcing Asani back onto his backside.\n“I’m not some prissy little mate for you to defend, Asani. This is just as much my home as it is yours. So either get used to the idea I'm going, or I'll clobber you an haul your sorry ass there.\" She threatened casually with Sierra smiling at her side. \n\"Alright, jeez.\"\n“That’s nine then. Hakima, Amri. I trust you to watch Pride Rock until we return.” Simba ordered as he group assembled to him. \n“Do me a favor, Simba.” Amri requested. \n“What is it?” \n“Ask him, how Serwa passed away. What happened to her, I would like to know this.” He asked solemnly. Simba hummed the thought over a moment before deciding to go agree. \n“Alright, I’ll ask. Come everyone, let’s go.” \n\nRafiki waited atop the tree. He would occasionally glance down nervously, awaiting the arrival of either party. It wasn’t long though, Ezeamaka lead his team towards the base of the tree. Rafiki watched each footstep they took carefully and calm, smiling even as they approached. Ezea took to the head of the pack and saw him up on the branch. \n“The fuck are you doing here chimp, beat it!” He called out condescendingly. Rafiki smiled, bounding down and planting himself just inches before him. \n“I am Rafiki, and you, are the son of Amri, yes?” He questioned coolly, looking the boy over from head to toe. \n“Hah, I’m prince Ezeamaka of the High Reach. An you, monkey boy are less than a few minutes from being lunch if you keep poking and prodding.” He retorted with a smirk. Rafiki gave a low chuckle and looked off towards Pride Rock. Seeing Simba on the way leading the eight others aside him. \n“I’m glad that you have at least come to negotiate.” Rafiki added in once more. \n“I’m here, for Amri’s head.” He quickly interjected giving a brief snap toward him. \n“Are you? What a terrible waste. To have found your father after all these years, just to kill him. Seems like an awful shame to me.” \n“Shut your mouth you overgrown rodent.” He snapped once more, returning his attention to Simba. Ghavrah broke from the line, taking his time approaching Ezeamaka's side. Leaning into his ear he whispered. \n\"Do not let the foolish king intimidate you boy, remember, you are of royal blood. Force him, to respect that.\" Ezeamaka gave a quick nod, a loud huff escaped as Ghavrah walked away. Simba halted the others, slowing making his way over to Ezeamaka now and sitting before him. \n\"Thank you for coming.\" Simba greeted half-heartily. \n\"Ha.\" Ezeamaka scoffed, planting himself down as well. \"Spare the pleasantries and let's get down to business.\" Simba sighed, giving his eyes a quick rub. \n\"Very well. I have one immediate demand.\" He began. \"You must stop all hostile activity toward pride and prey alike within my kingdom!\" \n\"The hostility will end when you submit the murderer of our prince!\" He immediately fired back. \n\"Amri has told me of that day. Your \"Prince\" challenged him, they both nearly died. There was no murder committed.\" Simba argued, softening his tone. \n\"No matter. That is for my uncle to decide. It's his demand that Amri be found and brought home immediately.\" \n\"You two nearly fought to the death?! Why should I believe, leaving him with you will mean anything but his death!\" Simba retorted. Ezeamaka huffed with a smile, rising up he began pacing back and forth. \n\"I will admit, I have been a bit… Brash, with my intents. Certainly you could understand how volatile things within a family can become?\" He questioned. Simba gave him a most puzzled look. \"Oh, I'm sorry. You didn't seriously believe such a battle between your uncle Scar and yourself could be kept quiet did you? Word reached us, we heard of these things.\" \n\"How?!\" Simba questioned eagerly. Ezeamaka wore his smile still, giving a moment before his next reply. \n\"We share certain aspects between kingdoms. News from the underground, among other things. Besides, Simba. As large and healthy as your pride is, the last thing you need is another war.\" Simba growled low, he began to mirror Ezea's walking pattern. Ezeamaka watched with pride, he knew he was getting to him now. \"Simba, perhaps I should offer an apology for the most recent attacks. Some of my boys here are, reckless.\" He snapped back, feigning aggression. \"And unruly. Any they know the consequences of such action.\" \n\"An apology is the least you owe!\" Nala piped up from behind. Taking to Simba's side she settled him down and returned her attention to him. \"Your \"Boys\" have been raping the game they kill, not to mention other predators. And let’s not forget how we discovered you, trying to take your own half sister to yourself.\" \n\"Oh don't remind me.\" He shy'd away. \"Now that much was regrettable. I am many things my dear lady, the least to say assertive with my females. But to procreate with my own sister, would make my stomach wretch.\" \n“Amri should have taken your fucking head.” Asani whispered, his eyes fixated on Ezeamaka. It was enough to catch his attention, smiling he gave him a quick huff and resumed his conversation with Simba. \n“If Amri is what you want, there are terms to his release to you. Ones I expect to be followed to the word.” Simba demanded, sitting upright before him. “The first of which, is that in your custody, he is not to be harmed by you. If he is guilty of any crime, let your own king decide his fate.” He stated. Ezeamaka rolled his eyes, shifting a quick glance to Ghavrah behind him. The old lion nodded and he swung his attention to Simba. \n“Done, what else?” \n“The second, is that no more harm befall any creatures within our kingdom! Also you cannot interfere with our lionesses as they work to bring more game back to our home. Last but not least, since he is hurt and I have absolutely no trust in you, I need a show of good faith before I turn Amri to you. A minimum of one week’s time where none of your pride engage in hostile acts towards us.” He declared, rising to his feet once again. \n“You ask a high price for something that already belongs to us!” Ezeamaka barked. \n“Boy!” Ghavrah shouted. Ezea turned around briefly, pondering his outburst. Ghavrah gestured him over and he followed, whispering something in his ear for a moment. Ezeamaka closed his eyes, heaving a heavy sigh as he returned to meet before Simba. \n“Fine. But I also have a condition.” He stated firmly. Simba, gave a bit of a lean and listened. “My boys here won’t do with just the food scattered outside your borders. They need to eat to live; you must permit us a minimum of one hunt in your kingdom a day.” Simba nodded, satisfied with the request. \n“Very well, I have little issue with that. Take a kill or two a day of your choice, but be mindful of my demands. We need that game coming back to feed our kingdom.” \n“Hmm, I’ll keep that in mind.” He replied with a smirk. Satisfied for now, Simba seemed ready to step away, but Amri’s request from before had crept back into his mind. To ask, the way his former mate had perished. \n“There’s something your father wants to know, Ezeamaka.” Simba said, snagging his attention once again. “How did your mother die?” \n“Hah!” He scoffed turning from Simba. \n“Grant your father this favor at least.” Simba snarled. Ezeamaka slowly turned back to Simba with the same smirk on his face. \n“She died from starvation, waiting in his den for him to come home.” \n“That must have been hard for you.” Simba answered. Ezeamaka shrugged, his eyes closed a moment. \n“Who cares, I hardly knew the bitch. I sucked the milk I needed out of her before she bit it, so like I give a fuck what happens after that.” Asani chuckled as well, shaking his head at Ezeamaka. \n“Sucks huh? That’s probably the closest your gonna get to a female ever again.” He quipped. \n“In one week’s time then, you will turn Amri over to us. But I swear, Simba. Break your word, and I’ll take the head of your queen first while you watch!” He threatened angrily. Simba, Asani and Ni growled at the statement and lowered their heads slightly. Ezeamaka gave a soft laugh while turning to his pride, looking them over for a moment he nodded to them. “Let’s go boys!” Simba and the others watched as they ran off to the south. The crew began to talk amongst each other as Kopa broke away, walking toward Rafiki who seemed content to sit and meditate. \n“Rafiki?” Kopa asked shyly. He smiled and opened his eyes, looking to him. \n“Yes boy?” \n“Do you think they will owe up to their end?” Rafiki pondered, stroking his chin as he looked away briefly. \n“The boy may try. His desire for revenge is all that drives him, but it is the elder there. The large one, he worries me.” He stated, slowly turning back to meet Kopa’s eyes. \n“Why?” Kopa wondered. \n“There is darkness in that heart the likes I have never seen.” He simply replied rising to his feet. Taking to his tree he concealed himself from there sight. Kopa gazed up momentarily before Ni pat his shoulder, stealing his attention. \n“Coming little brother? We’re heading back.” He asked with a smile. \n“Yeah, let’s go.” He nodded, walking aside him as they rejoined the crowd. \n\nSaeska and Nathari had begun crossing the deserts of the outlands. The pillars of Kovu’s former home far behind them with nothing but open desert ahead. They kept their pace brisk yet steady, Saeska guilty of trying to stay ahead for the majority of the trip so far. Nathari kept his eyes on the horizon, waving sand dunes and gusty winds ahead he knew would be hard on them both. \n“Saeska, let’s take it down a bit. We have to try to cross the dunes up ahead before nightfall; we need to keep a sustainable pace.” He called out. She glanced back for a moment and eased he pace a little, allowing him to catch up to her side. “Look if we-“ \n“Nathari, stuff the safety first attitude, my father’s life is on the line! If you can’t keep up, then stay behind!” She snapped before bolting ahead. He glared, unimpressed with her response and threw himself into high gear, rushing up to her side once more. She kept her eyes fixated a head for a while, seemingly entranced by the coming horizon. Finally she gave him a quick look before growling aloud. She shot off to the right a bit, aimed for a sand dune a good height up. \n“What is she doing?” Nathari asked himself, watching her try to rush the face of the dune. He took the route around and lost sight of her for a few seconds. Seeing her come down the other side she was leaping the dune, kicking down mounds of sand as she descended its slopes. She was ahead, and seemed alright so far, but he kept a good eye on her run down. As she neared the basin, her foot fell strange and she began to tumble, the sand that followed her nearly shrouded her entire body. Nathari gasped and rushed to intercept. He managed to snatch her from the roll and tumbled only a moment to halt her. Pinned underneath him, he slowly moved himself off and coughed. “Crap, this stuff gets everywhere.” He complained, shaking his fur out. \n“Who cares, let’s go!” Saeska insisted, giving her paw a quick shake before taking just a few steps ahead of him. \n“Saeska!” Nathari snapped snatching her attention. “Don’t ever pull a stunt like that again on this trip.” She turned to him with a condescending smile and asked. \n“Oh really? We need to get there fast. If we go straight up and over we’ll get there in half the time.” She corrected. \n“Yeah? And suppose you break your leg next time, dancing down the hills like an idiot. You need to get there in once piece, or why bother going at all?” He swiftly countered. She walked in closer to him, pointing back off toward the Pride Lands. \n“My father is back there wounded, we are out here, and there are nine, full grown males, four of which are trained killers waiting for a chance to get at his throat!” She angrily stated.\n“My father’s back there to!” \n“You don’t even know your damn father!” She snapped once more, but this time in realizing what she had said, her expression changed rapidly. She seemed just as shocked as him now that it came out. Nathari growled a moment, walking passed her. “Nathari, oh no, please forgive me. I didn’t mean-“ \n“We’ll discuss it later.” He shouted, refusing to meet her eye to eye. Saeska tried to think of something to say, but her mind was out run by his footsteps. As Nathari raced ahead, she coaxed herself into catching up, staying a little distance behind him. The rest of their day was quiet, approaching the edge of the jungles that Timon, Pumbaa and Simba once called home. The night began to descend as Nathari carefully searched the shallow reaches within. Finding a large tree with a bowl like shape to its roots, satisfied, he decided to rest his body there. Saeska still felt awful, pawing at the ground just a few feet behind him. She was attempting to muster up the courage to talk to him. \n“This will have to do for the night.” He called out, still not giving her as much as a glance. She perked up as he spoke, but lowered her head after. Walking over to him, she gently patted his back. \n“Nathari, I’m really sorry.” She breathed. \n“Just.” He tried to start, finally looking to her, seeing her eyes in pain he sighed and lowered his head once more. “Forget it.” \n“Can you please forgive me?” She begged, leaning closer to him. \n“Yes.” He answered half-heartedly. Unsatisfied she rushed around his body and forced him to meet her face. \n“I love you, please don’t be mad.” She pleaded once more. He raised his head, meeting her face with concern. \n“I love you too, but Saeska I’m worried about you. You’ve changed since, you know.” He suggested, hinting at the morning Ezeamaka tried to rape her. \n“It’s not that.” She quickly dismissed. \n“Saeska, tell me what’s wrong?” He pleaded now, rising up to hold her. She moaned leaning into his chest as his arm came around her back.\n“I love my daddy. I don’t’ want to lose him.” She cried softly. \n“You won’t!” He insisted, holding her a little tighter. “We’re going to make sure of that.”\n“It’s so different than before. When we lived on our own, he fought to defend us from these small groups. He was so strong, he could defeat anyone. But this Ezeamaka, my half brother.” She said with some disgust. “Wants to take his head! Why? Why not get to know daddy!? Why is he so cruel!? I’ve seen mean lions before, but it’s like he delights in this.” Nathari gazed down at the earth, feeling her cry into his chest. He thought of his own memories of Ezeamaka when he lived at home with his mother. \n“Ever since Ghavrah.” He whispered, trailing off. He thought about saying more, the need to comfort the lioness in his arms was more pressing. He kept her close, running his paw the length of her back, calming her down from her little fit. “I love you. Don’t’ worry, we’ll save your dad.”\n“We will.” She agreed, lowering herself with him to the ground. Nathari laid on his side, taking her into his body, her head resting on his neck. “Hah, the Keyah position.” She thought aloud. \n“Yeah, I’ve seen mom and dad sleep this way a lot.” He agreed, giving her a quick squeeze. \n“Good night my love.” She whispered, slowly closing her eyes. \n“Good night lover.” \n\nBack at home, Keyah, Kinu and Kiara had taken to the savannah. Kinu in particular was happy to be out for a while, usually stuck inside tending to her son. \n“Feels great huh?” Keyah asked, nudging her sister’s side. \n“Been too long. I gotta admit, I’ve been craving the feel of the wind.” She replied turning to Kiara. \n“Great, so you guys gonna show me more about hunting huh?” She questioned, bounding around them. \n“Sort of, we have to pressure the game back into the Pride Lands.” Keyah corrected. \n“I’ve been listening to the lionesses inside. There’s a large zebra herd that has moved off to the east. If we don’t flush them out, they could wander further.” Kinu explained. \n“Well what are we waiting for, come on girls!” Kiara cheered, rushing off to the east. Kinu and Keyah followed and quickly took to either side of the sprinting princess. Kiara looked to the two with a grin and chuckled. \n“Think you can outrun me?” She challenged. \n“Easily!” Kinu answered, firing a grin back to her. Kiara looked ahead and bolted. Kinu not far behind while Keyah watched them race ahead of her. \n“Oh wow, she hasn’t lost her touch yet.” She complimented, watching her sister race. Rushing through the grasslands and passed the games watering hole, they carried on into savannah that lead to the edge of the canyon. Smiling Keyah looked on, seeing the great depths of it below, recognizing the path that lead them to the elephant graveyard. The height though was what astonished her most, to scale down was impossible. The drop was shear, nearly three hundred feet down. Kinu and Kiara took to her side as she admired the view. \n“Remember?” Keyah asked, Kinu immediately nodded and smiled looking down. Kiara examined their faces, somewhat baffled by their attraction to it. \n“What’s up?” Keyah smiled at her before looking back down. \n“I remember when we were walking those paths. We followed it into the elephant graveyard.” \n“Yeah.” Kinu laughed, huddling a little closer to her sister. “And Sierra stalked us through the passages.” The two shared a laugh before taking a turn back to the savannah. \n“What’s it like, outside our kingdom I mean.” Kiara asked a little shyly. Kinu turned her head the side with a deep breath. \n“It’s rough sometimes. We had a few close calls out there.” \n“No I mean the places you’ve seen. The things you’ve done. I’ve spent my whole life here in the Pride Lands.” Kiara continued to press.\n“Well.” Keyah thought a moment. “It’s not a whole lot different. One of the more beautiful places we saw was just beyond that shadowy place. Sis, what did they call it again?” \n“The deep.” \n“Right, that’s it. Once we stepped out into that valley it was amazing.”\n“Especially after being in that muggy jungle.” Kinu quipped. \n“If I recall, my little sister became a true lioness in that jungle.” Keyah touted with her head up high. \n“Little sister?” She scoffed. “Besides, that place isn’t special to me. Just what I got out of it. I couldn’t ask for a better lover.” \n“He made an impression on ya huh?” Kiara perked in with a chuckle. \n“Oh yeah.” Kinu laughed, bumping her side. \n“What did make you change your mind sis? Remember how you used to be around the boys?” \n“Yes, Keyah. I recall, but Ni was always gentle with me, even when I was hurt. He has a soft air about him, so wise, and calming.” She fawned, recalling there time together months earlier. \n“I’m really proud of you sis. I was lucky, it felt like me and Kopa were meant to be, but you really grew and let yourself open up.” Keyah stated, leaning into her sisters side as they walked. \n“I found a good lover, we all did.” She cooed, nuzzling her sister’s cheek. Not wanting to leave Kiara out, Kinu gave Kiara’s cheek a quick lick. “And now we have a big family, and a home to call our own.” Giggling a moment, they heard the strangest of sounds off to the right, buried it seemed under the shade of a tree and tall grass. A male lion arose, clapping his paws slowly as they gradually turned to him. \n“Well well, quite the little story.” The male said, revealing himself fully. The trio growled and squared off with him immediately. “Chill out!” The male called. “I’m not here to hurt anyone. Just to casually observe.” \n“Yeah right!” Keyah retorted angrily, keeping her fangs bared. \n“I’m quite serious. My so-called prince ordered me not to interfere, so I won’t interfere. But he said nothing about observing.” He stated, waving his finger. \n“Then observe us, walking away from you.” Kinu fired back, leading the others on. \n“Happily.” He smiled, keeping pace with the three girls. Kiara and Keyah both noticed him following and halted. \n“What do you think you’re doing?” Kiara demanded. The male feigned shock and smiled. \n“I’m not doing anything. I follow my orders since they keep my head on my shoulders. So like I said, I’ll just observe you beautiful lionesses.” He coolly answered. Kiara began to grow infuriated and stomped closer to him. \n“I am princess Kiara, heiress to the Pride Lands and I’m ordering you to leave us alone, immediately!” \n“Anyone ever tell you princess, you’re stunningly hot when you’re angry.” He flirted, shining her on with his teeth as he smiled. \n“Ugh!” She turned away disgusted. “I’m married you jerk!” \n“Mmm yeah, bet you could brood up a whole kingdom of cubs huh?” He said softly, leering at her body. \n“Gross! Get away from us!” She protested. \n“Hey, jackass!” Kinu shouted. “We’re not out here on some leisurely stroll; we have a job to do. One more word out of you and we’ll relay to Simba how you broke the deal by harassing the king’s daughter.” Keyah smiled as her sister threatened the male. \n“Hmm.” He pondered, keeping the smile on his face. “My apologies girls. I will, keep to my observations then.” He replied turning away. He gave one quick look back and said aloud. “And my thoughts, to myself.” The girls shuddered and walked on ahead at a much more brisk pace. Trying their best to forget their stalker, they took a bit further east and found there target. The herd was wondering about the thick grass, almost to the border of the Pride Lands. Kinu huddled the girls down and began to give direction. \n“Keyah, you flank the left, I’ll get the right. Kiara, I want you to handle strays. If they start moving off course cause of a few zebra, I want you to force them back.” \n“Got it.” Kiara confirmed.\n“The tree line there?” Keyah asked, gesturing behind them. \n“Get em beyond it, closer to the watering hole. It should keep em close.” Kinu agreed. The girls broke and took formation around the zebra herd. Keeping a good distance so not to be smelt by them, they found their positions. Kinu raised her tail high, signaling her sister. The two counted down and burst from the grass, frightening the herd. They whinnied and raced away, thinking they might be next to be the girls dinner. The herd fell suit and began to race west. Kiara rushed alongside, ensuring no strays would break away. A few young, trying to avoid being trampled attempted to break away. Kiara roared in, the young zebras snapped direction, meeting their mothers as they kept west. The girls grew smiles across their faces, it was exhilarating to run alongside the herd, hearing the thunderous hooves as they seemingly rode alongside the storm of black and white. Laughing as they rushed, they broke through the tree line, the watering hole just off to the right. Kiara and Kinu put the pressure on the left flank to maneuver them toward it. Keyah broke off, letting them pass she watched them travel with a smile. She didn’t wait long before Kinu and Kiara rejoined her, both wearing the same smiles. \n“What a rush!” Kiara beamed, bouncing around the girls. \n“Oh yeah girls! We still got it!” Kinu cheered, clapping their paws. \n“You certainly do!” The male called once again. The smiles on their faces melted as they swung around to see him standing not a few feet away. \n“Ugh, get lost!” Kiara shouted. \n“Whoa?! Why the hostility? The compliment was genuine.” He reinforced, walking toward them. The girls huddled close and watched him closely. Pausing he looked them over, taking particular focus on Kiara. “Don’t worry, I’m not gonna bite. That is, unless you want me to.” He chuckled. \n“Sick, freaking jerk.” Kiara spouted turning away. \n“I’m a direct male, what can I say? But the least I should do, is offer my name to three beautiful lionesses like yourselves.” He stated, giving a brief bow. “My name is Theron. A wild lion. It’s nice to see such skilled females. Too many lionesses I meet in kingdoms want to be coddled and pampered. It’s enjoyable to see.” He cleared his throat. “Such form.” \n“A wild lion? Aren’t you from the High Reach like the rest?” Kinu questioned. \n“No my dear lady, though I was born not far from their borders. I joined with Ezeamaka when he-“\n“Theron!” A raspy voice called. Grunting he looked behind him to see an elder lion approaching. \n“Oh brilliant, the old fucker is trying it again.” He whispered to himself. Turning to them he bowed once more. “Forgive me my beautiful girls; I’ll address the old buffoon myself.” He turned back to see the elder walking up to him, unimpressed he met him eagerly. “Now I’ve told you, finders keepers. Go get your own-“ The old lion smashed him hard across the face before he could finish his sentence. \n“Shut the fool mouth. You’ve been summoned by the prince; now get the fuck out of my sight.” He softly scolded. Shaking out his head, he pat his lip to feel for blood. Glaring him in the eyes he smiled again. \n“Sleep well tonight, you senile fuck.” He quipped, passing by him. The old lion growled as he passed by, turning his attention to the trio. Kinu and Keyah seemed in shock, the face of the old lion was most familiar. The one scar that cut across his cheek, from the fight long ago that freed them from his grasp. The lion smiled, looking the two over. \n“Well well well. Look what we have here.” He smiled, ogling the girls. \n“Don’t even think about it!” Kiara quickly retorted. \n“Whether I think about it or not is irrelevant. Since, you’re the only flesh here I haven’t had the taste for yet.” \n“What?” Kiara gasped, turning to the two. Keyah and Kinu both looked on in horror. \n“You… It can’t be.” Keyah stammered. \n“Rohaj, is my name young princess. As you can see, I make quite an impression on the people I, entangle with.” He snickered as he paced around them. “It seems you two have grown up quite well haven’t you. Firm bodies, groomed coat, your sleek figure. Though perhaps not quite the… exact size I prefer. Tell me, girls, had any fair daughters as of late?” \n“You son of a bitch. You stay away from us!” Keyah shouted, Rohaj seemed hardly phased by her outburst. \n“Good, so it’s yours then.” He concluded in a soft, sickening tone. “Nothing quite like the young, so tight and relieving. Wouldn’t you agree, Kinu?” \n“No.” Kinu spoke softly at first. She slowly raised her head, her eyes in fury at the mere sight of the old and twisted lion. “No I will not let you even try it!”\n“Shut the fuck up you sniveling rat! Or I’ll kill you’re litter of cock sheaths before your eyes.” He fired back. It seemed with little notice he could shift from his calm tone to a violent and aggressive nature. \n“You’ll never touch my son, my niece or my nephew!” She boldly answered, breaking from the girls. “You will never have control over us again! I’ll tear your fucking head off myself before you get the chance!” Rohaj shot a solid strike across her face, Kinu spat up from the blow and nearly fell to the ground.\n“Remember your place you little slut!” He scolded raising his paw once again. Kinu quickly fired a shot across his face, claws fully extended she ripped through his cheek, spinning his head to the side. \n“My place is here. My life is my own, and you will die if you so much as touch my family.” She barked once more, watching as he returned his gaze to hers. Calmly he pat his cheek, feeling the blood soak his hand and giving it a quick lick. \n“I see you’ve developed a little courage since the last time we met, Kinu.” He took yet another swift shot across her face with the back of his paw, knocking her to the ground with a huff. “But no matter, I’ll break you all the same.” Kiara and Keyah jumped in, Keyah giving her sister a quick check to make sure she was ok. “One by one, you’ll bow to me, and serve me in all the ways I demand.” Kiara growled, but caught the image of something behind Rohaj and smiled. \n“Don’t count on it, you creep!” She snapped. Rohaj raised an eyebrow and turned around, meeting Ni face to face. Smiling he nodded to the lion. \n“Long time, asshole!” He snapped, slashing the same side Kinu had struck, throwing the lion to the ground in the process. Ni rushed to Kinu, checking her and rubbing her cheek with is paw. “Lover, are you ok?” \n“Ni… Thank goodness.” She moaned. \n“Girls, get her home. Send for Asani and Kopa to my aid. Till then, I’ll deal with him.” He instructed. \n“You’ll regret that strike boy. You already break the agreement we made.” Rohaj stated, rising to his feet. \n“You struck first you son of a bitch, I saw what you did to my lover.” Ni countered.\n“Is that so?” He questioned, giving his cheek another pat. \n“If I had known then what I know about you know, Rohaj. I would have told Amri to put you in the ground when we fought. But thankfully, I get that privilege now don’t I?” Rohaj threw his head back and laughed. \n“You pathetic little weakling, you think you can stand your ground against me?!” He taunted, leaning in closer to Ni’s face. Ni grew a cocky smile and glared into his eyes. \n“You are no match for me, whatsoever.” Rohaj snarled and took a hard shot for Ni aimed straight at his face. Ni caught the blow and deflected it away, the barrage began, Rohaj throwing his paws hard for Ni’s head over and over, backing him off slightly with each blow. Ni grew tired of the predictable strikes, taking one of his lazier throws and tossing him off balance. Ni shot to his chin with the back of his paw, crashing down once more across the face of twisted lion. \nRohaj roared, backing off from the strike. Ni immediately moved in, leaping for Rohaj, he caught his head in his arms and rolled, tossing the old lion on his back. With ease he swung his body over and started to return the favor, barraging his face with hard shots. Rohaj gave another roar, placing his feet on Ni’s belly and tossed him. Ni’s lighter weight was thrown far and rolled as he landed, he quickly recovered, taking to his feet and squaring himself with Rohaj once more. \n“You foolish little lion, when I get my claws on you-“\n“You’ll what?!” Ni interrupted. “Can’t exactly make me suck your cock you sick fuck, I’m not some helpless cub!” \n“I’ll make you beg for your life!” Rohaj angrily barked. Ni shook his head, disgusted by the old lion. \n“You just don’t get it do you, you’re fat, slow, uncoordinated and have piss poor aim. Let me show you how to really fight.” With that, Ni leapt for the old lion once more. He bounded to his feet, hoisting both of them up in the process. Ni smiled, jumping up and kicking off the old lion’s chest, his swift shot threw him into a back flip landing well on the ground while Rohaj was shot down on hard, slamming the ground he was winded and stunned. Ni targeted the stomach and punched deep, twisting his fist to provoke the agony of the blow. Rohaj gasped from the strike as Ni took a second shot with his head aimed at the sternum. Feeling the most subtle crack with the strike he watched Rohaj writhe in agony on the ground. “Get up!” Ni demanded. The old lion coughed while Ni backed off. \nRising to his feet, Rohaj locked his scowl on Ni, growling and snarling as he struggled to maintain his balance. Ni observed him carefully, focused on his chest, waiting for the next move from the sluggish old lion. Rohaj darted back in, faking a blow for Ni’s chin. Ni moved to block and fell for the decoy, as Rohaj slammed down hard across Ni’s face, laying open his cheek. His eyes slammed tight from the slashing hit, but he didn’t cry out in pain. Instead, Ni slowly opened his eyes, turning to the smiling old lion. \n“How’d you like that, you cocky prick?” Rohaj taunted. Ni didn’t say a word, just continued to glare deep into the old lion’s eyes, he watched as the grotesque face turned to rage once more. Winding up another strike, he aimed once again for the cheek. Ni knew what to expect, as the blow fell short of its mark, Rohaj’s other paw rising to find his chin. Ni caught this blow, and threw his arm down, and with one fell swing he hammered down on the side of Rohaj’s arm, breaking it in a single blow. The old lion roared in agony, falling to his side as Ni backed away, giving attention to the wound on his face. \nHe watched him roll on the ground in pain, tucking his shattered arm close to his chest. \n“Pathetic.” Ni commented, as the huffing and crying started to slow from the old lion. Ni looked behind him to see the figure of a large lion approaching them. He had a feeling he knew who it was. The old lion managed his way to his feet, standing on the three he could work with as Ezeamaka approached him from behind. \n“Master! Thank goodness you’re here. Kill this treacherous scum!” He pleaded. Ezeamaka stared down at him for a moment, eventually shifting his eyes to Ni. \n“Your girl, was injured by the old fuck wasn’t he?” He questioned. Ni grew worried now, moving a little closer he shouted. \n“What did you do to them!?” He demanded. Ezeamaka leapt for Ni and tackled him to the ground. Pinning him by the throat he kept a firm grip as he leaned in close to his ear. \n“Not, a fucking, thing.” He replied in a firm, angry tone. Ezeamaka rose from his body and turned his attention to Rohaj. Ni slowly got up, shaking off the hit to the ground. \n“You’re late master, this rat tried to attack-“ \n“Shut the fuck up.” He snapped calmly. “Rohaj, why did you go against my orders and attack the female?” He questioned. \n“She.. I mean.” He clamored for a reason. “She insulted us, disrespected you my prince. I only meant to defend your-“ \n“I don’t give a fuck what they said!!” He screamed at the top of his lungs, toppling the lion to the ground. “You do not, go against my orders!” He barked, snaring Rohaj’s neck. “And you do not get between me and my father!” Giving that final lecture, he dug his claws deep into Rohaj’s throat and ripped clean across. \n“What are you doing!?” Ni cried out. Ezeamaka smiled, watching the old lion choke on his own blood, as it poured from his neck and soaked the grass. Within moments his eyes glazed over as he died. Ni slowly walked over, getting a better view of Ezeamaka’s face. He continued to smile, looking the old lion over. What resonated with Ni however, was how strikingly similar the smile was to Amri’s, yet the reason behind it, was so much more twisted. In a snap he turned to Ni, returning to his usual mug. \n“What!?” He demanded. \n“You, look just like your father.” Ni stated, Ezeamaka smiled and rolled his eyes. \n“Hahaha, ahh the old fucker has you whipped well doesn’t he?” \n“Your fathers a great lion. It’s too bad I can’t say the same about his son.” Ni quipped. Ezeamaka took a swift shot to Ni’s face, halting his paw just shy, his claw not even an inch from his eye. Ni was stunned, he couldn’t believe he pulled the punch so fast on him. \n“My father, is a fucking coward. Right now, I’m the great lion that spared your life. You keep that in mind, Ni.” He warned softly. Ezeamaka saw Kopa and Asani moving in swiftly now. Darting to Ni’s ear he whispered. “I will keep my word so long as you deliver what I have been promised. But you so much as make one, wrong step, Ni. I’ll feed your little fucking whelp to you, before you die.” Ni felt a shudder shake his body, it was rare he ever felt intimidated by a foe, but Ezeamaka was doing it well. He backed off as the two arrived with fangs bared. \n“Get away from him!” Kopa shouted angrily. \n“You fucking two timing pussy! You couldn’t resist attacking us!” Asani chipped in. Ni leapt in front of the two. \n“No don’t!” Ni insisted. Kopa and Asani looked to him confused as Ni glanced back at Ezeamaka, smiling at him. “He wasn’t the one who attacked us, it was him.” Ni advised, pointing to Rohaj’s body. “Ezeamaka killed him for breaking the agreement.” Ezeamaka gave a semi polite bow as he explained. Kopa looked at the body then back to Ezeamaka. \n“That’s the second time you’ve killed your own pride member.” He barked. \n“Well, I was shooting for three but, you went and spared the last little wretch.” He coolly replied.\n“Kopa.” Asani dismissed, pushing him back as he started towards Ezeamaka. Ni pat his shoulder trying to stop him but Asani put it down and continued. Taking a spot right to his face he meet the big lion nearly eye to eye. He kept a firm stare, waiting to see if he would make a move on him. Finally Asani cracked a smile. “Thanks asshole.” Ezeamaka laughed a moment. \n“Oh whatever for?” he asked sarcastically. \n“You spared the girls, and got rid of this cub fucker for us. Now you’re down to eight, and a little less of a threat.” He explained. “Keep it up, friend. Maybe you can kill the rest of your boys, spare us the trouble.” Ezeamaka laughed softly once more, staring into Asani’s eyes. \n“I like you.” He smiled. \n“Yeah?” Asani questioned. \n“But I think I’ll like you better as a throw rug.” \n“Yeah? Gotta do better then you did against your pappy.” Asani smiled. \n“Oh don’t worry. Keep running your mouth like this, you’ll get your chance.” Ezeamaka nodded. \n“Asani!” Ni called out. He didn’t budge, he kept a hard lock on Ezeamaka. \n“I’ll be looking forward to it.” He whispered.\n“So will I.” Ezeamaka nodded, turning away from him. Giving a few steps he shouted back. “Oh Asani!” He paused a moment. “Tell your little girls, I’m looking forward to meeting your cubs.” This one hit him deep, but he wouldn’t dare let him know it. Asani continued along, rejoining Ni and Kopa. \n“How did he know?” Kopa asked urgently. Ni pondered it over a moment while Asani stewed over the remark. \n“I think we have a traitor amongst Simba’s pride.” Ni concluded. Kopa hung his head as they slowly paced home. \n“A traitor, but who?” He begged Ni. \n“I don’t know.” \n“We’ll find them.” Asani snarled. “And teach them a lesson they’ll never forget.” \n\nHakima was working vigilantly to clean the wound across Amri’s chest. Burying her muzzle passed his mane; she licked carefully, each stroke causing Amri to suffer a flash of pain. He kept it well disguised, having grown used to the sensation. She flashed a few final licks before backing away, satisfied with her job. \n“That should do it.” She affirmed, smiling to her husband. \n“Thank you my love.” He bowed politely, quickly finding Hakima buried in his chest once again. This time to caress his aching body. \n“I love you so; my heart grows heavy with worry though as of late.” \n“Things are stressful right now to say the least.” Amri agreed, running his chin the length of her neck. \n“I cannot lose you, not to this fiend that dares call himself your son.” She softly cried. \n“Hush, Hakima. Think no such thing.” He scolded lightly. \n“I have lived a long life, and seen many faces in my time.” She began to recall, letting Amri wrap up her body. “But the anger in that boys eyes, it terrifies me. I saw it the day attacked, walking before his pride.” \n“I have seen anger like that in Asani.”\n“Asani was traumatized and turned feral, this is not the same my love.” She protested. \n“Is it?” He questioned. “This boy has lived his life believing I had abandoned him. To discover I am alive, must have sent him into a rage.” \n“I would rather it consume him, then you.” She argued. \n“Oh, my love.” He sighed, hugging her tight. \n“I know what is in your heart; you wish to make peace with him, don’t you?” She questioned. Amri slowly nodded in agreement. “Please, I beg of you do not try this now.” \n“I will not be so foolish as to approach him unguarded. He is very strong, but I know I can defeat him in single combat.”\n“You did not know he was your son then. You had the fire of your daughters attack pushing you.” \n“I have another fire that may yet push me in a coming fight with him.” He argued softly. Hakima looked up, her eyes just brimming with tears. Amri closed his a moment, reflecting on the memories of the High Reach, of the day he fought with his brother. “He, does not know what Serwa did to instigate our battle.” \n“Yes, I know.” She whispered, hiding her face in his chest once more. \n“Amri?” Nala asked, perking up behind him she gently placed her paw on his shoulder. “Are you doing ok?” \n“Yes Nala, I’m healing well thank you.” He nodded. \n“Worried for your daughter?” She asked, breaking a smile. \n“Always.” He sighed. \n“Don’t worry, Nathari and Saeska have grown so strong. I’m sure they’re almost there now.” She encouraged. \n“I do hope your right.” Hakima sighed, turning her gaze to the entrance. “My baby girl, be strong.” \n\nNi and the others arrived home. Kinu had already been tended to her more mild injuries however seeing her mate arrive home bleeding threw her into panic. \n“Ni! No!” She cried, leaping to his arms. “Oh baby, your cheek.” She cooed into his neck. \n“It’s alright Kinu, I could use your help cleaning it. But first, Kopa?” Ni called, snagging his attention before he could run to Keyah. Kopa darted over and listened. \n“What’s up brother?”\n“Talk to your father and brother about what we thinks going on, go somewhere, private.” Ni instructed. Kopa nodded and after a short visit with his lover and cubs, he took his father and Kovu’s attention and led them out. Ni submitted and lay down, letting Kinu tend to his injured face. Halake crawled into his arms, leering up at his bleeding father. \n“Daddy?” He asked, his voice crackling. \n“Yes son?” Ni replied, keeping still for Kinu. \n“Are you gonna be ok?” He begged. Ni smiled and pulled him close to his chest. \n“Of course son, I’ll be perfectly fine.” Ni comforted, patting his sons backside. \n“But daddy, there’s so much red stuff.” \n“Shh.” Ni hushed. “It hurts a little son, I won’t lie. But your daddy’s very strong right?” \n“Yeah.” \n“I’ll be just fine, it’s ok. Do you want to go play with your cuzzies?” Ni suggested. Halake shook his little head, still buried in Ni’s chest. \n“I’m staying with you, daddy!” He protested loudly. Ni gave a little laugh at the outburst and cradled his son in his paws. \n“Then stay with me.” He agreed. \nKopa, Kovu and Simba had taken outside, remaining quiet until they reached the open savannah. Kopa could see off in the distance the visage of the outlands, as well as the gorge far off to the right. He turned his gaze down, wondering how he was going to discuss with his father the possibility that someone amoungst them, was a traitor. Simba nudged his sons backside with a smile, bringing one out of Kopa in the process. \n“Got something on your mind, son?” He asked happily. \n“Yeah dad.” He acknowledged, returning his gaze to the ground. Kovu cut a little ahead, halting the stroll as the three settled down. \n“Well, come on Kopa, out with it.” Kovu insisted with a smile as well. \n“Have you guys ever wondered, how Ezeamaka and his pride seem to know so much about us, yet we only know what Amri and Nathari can tell us?” Kopa began, shifting his glance between the two. \n“It has struck me as strange.” Simba agreed. “I think I know where you’re going with this.” \n“I think someone in our pride is giving them this information to use against us.” Kopa boldly announced. \n“That’s a little disturbing.” Kovu sighed.\n“But it might be true. The incident with Scar was years ago, our conflict with Zira is long past as well.” \n“And how is it he knows exactly who to bring to this fight?” Kopa threw in. Simba and Kovu both looked to him confused. “Look, the lion that attacked Ni today, was Rohaj. It was the predator who tormented Keyah and Kinu when they were young. How in the world would he know to bring someone like that?”\n“Ezeamaka may be smarter then we give him credit for.” Simba thought aloud. \n“What’s worse is something that Rafiki told me. That the old one, Ghavrah might be much more cruel then Ezeamaka.” \n“When did you hear that?” Kovu asked. \n“Just after the negotiations.” \n“Rafiki has a talent for seeing what’s in others hearts.” Simba replied as well. “This might be something to take more seriously if we see Ghavrah attempt anything.”\n“I’ll see what I can do to investigate who has been leaking information about us to their pride.” Kovu stated. \n“Sounds good.” Simba agreed. “I want both of you working on this though, give you a little bonding time.” Kopa and Kovu looked to each other and laughed a little. \n“Our mates are already creching dad; I think were bonded pretty well.” Kopa chuckled.\n“Well good, I’ll talk with Amri in more detail about his home. Information can go both ways here, if we know anything that we can turn on him, we should pursue it.” Simba decided. \n“Answers you seek?” a voice called out, rising over the grass. Kopa, Kovu looked eagerly while Simba simply smiled. \n“That’s right.” He replied happily. “What can you tell us Rafiki?” With a giggle he rose from the grass and bounded to their side. His smile was brief, as a solemn look grew over his face. \n“There is darkness in the boy’s heart, hatred placed there by another. This Ezeamaka, is a puppet of someone much more cruel.” He explained. \n“Ghavrah?” Kopa questioned eagerly. \n“I believe so. T’was him that gave the order to those three, to butcher the game here and ravage the other predators.” \n“Why though, and how do you know?” Kovu questioned. \n“He was foolish enough to give his orders beneath my very nose. He takes a few of the males away, and sic’s them on us.” \n“Does Ezeamaka know about this?” Simba asked. \n“It’s possible, but he may not care. The boys anger for Amri, burns deep, the fire in his heart is fueled by this old warrior. Follow the trail he leaves, and you will find the answers you seek.”\n“Kovu, Kopa, I’m counting on you. Find out who is leaking information to Ezeamaka and his pride. I think I will take to investigating Ghavrah more closely.” Simba decided. \n“But dad?!” Kopa protested. \n“I’ll be careful, don’t worry. Come on, let’s get back home before we’re missed.” \n\n\n\nNathari and Saeska walked in the open savannah of the High Reach Basin. The air filled with the scent of wet grass as the thin streams that poured from the upper reach fed the river below. He glanced to his right, seeing the huntresses starting their relay up the cliff and followed along. Saeska kept close behind as they worked their way up, passing through the thin tunnels that lead behind the waterfalls and back out into the open Cliffside. Reaching the top, they took in the view. Verdent grassland, overshadowed by the massive mountain range behind it. Saesksa gazed up slack jawed at the view as Nathari casually took the lead toward the Hall of Voyagers. The den sat within an enormous rock, seemingly a fragment from the mountain that had fallen. As he passed lion and lioness alike, he noticed he didn’t recognize a single face. He tried to place a name to any he could, but the ability eluded him completely. \n“It has been a while.” He said softly. “Maybe most of my litter mates and friends have moved on.” The two walked inside the hollowed rock and immediately something was wrong. The spacious cave had its usual three grass laid beds intended for the princes, but the lions in the seats were total strangers. They took turns glancing at Nathari and Saeska, as one grew bold enough to dismount from the resting spot and approach. \n“Who are you?!” The large bellowing lion declared. \n“I.. I’m Prince Nathari of the Pride Lands. I’m here to speak with King Akinlana!” He answered just as proudly. The large lion laughed and looked to the other two who joined him in the joke. “What?!” Nathari demanded. \n“You’re looking for King, who?” He asked. Nathari looked behind him, seeing the light from the entrance fade as the rock seemed to envelope it. \n“I said.” He stammered, turning back to the lion, but he was not there to greet him. The room had completely emptied, as Nathari looked around in panic. “Saeska?!” He called out, hearing his voice reverberate around the room. “Saeska!!” He called louder. \n“Nathari!” He heard a reply come from the back end of the den, the small tunnel that lead to Akinlana’s own resting room. Nathari darted in to see no one there; his breath grew short, his heart racing as he looked all about. \n“Saeska where are you!?” He cried out, only to hear his own voice reply. As he clamored to the middle of the den he heard the ground shoot a sharp crack beneath him. “Wha?” he breathed, seeing the earth slowly snap beneath his feet. Backing away he tried to avoid any further breakage, but prove to be little help, the walls, ceiling and ground all seemed to cave away before him at once, the feel of the rocks slam his back shocked him, as he abruptly awoke tossing Saeska off of him.\n“Ahh!” Saeska cried, waking as well as she hit the ground. “Nathari! What’s the big idea?!” He immediately rushed to her aid, breathing heavily from the nightmare. \n“I’m sorry, I’m really sorry.” He quickly apologized pulling her back over to him. As she lay her head once more in his mane she gave her head a brief rub. “It was a nightmare.” \n“Yeah I know, you used to get them all the time a few months back.” She answered quietly, trying to soften her tone. \n“We made it there, and everything had changed. There were these weirdo’s in the throne room, and the floor and everything gave way.” \n“Nathari, shh.” She hushed. “It’s ok. You’re probably nervous about going home; you haven’t been back for a long time right?” \n“Yeah.” He nodded, giving her a quick kiss. \n“It’ll be ok love, you just gotta relax. How much further is it from here anyway?” Nathari thought a moment, recalling where they were. \n“Passed the jungle, into the western grasslands it leads to the valley. From there, it’s the… Left path, that’s it, leads to Sana Hills. That’s a straight shot to High Reach basin. Hmm… So, maybe about a day and a half, if we really push, we can cross the Sana hills early in the morning, come up with the Huntresses in time for breakfast.” \n“Mmm.” She softly moaned, Nathari quickly realized she was falling asleep. Smiling he kissed her cheek one more time before settling his eyes. “I wonder how my brother is doing?” He whispered to himself, as sleep overtook him once more. \n\nAmri paced himself, slowly walking from the entrance of the den. Simba followed fairly close behind, heading towards his habitual spot at the watering hole. \n“Morning Amri.” He greeted warmly. \n“Morning Simba, off for a drink as usual?” \n“Yep.” He replied as he stretched. “I don’t know why, I’m always so thirsty in the morning.” \n“You’re getting old.” Amri joked with a smile. Simba laughed a little and shook his head.\n“Yeah well, if I need any advice on that topic I should look to a pro like you huh?” Amri laughed and nodded, watching him head off to his usual destination. Amri took to the rocks just south of Pride Rock. He casually gazed them over and smiled. \n“Eh, Scar’s old haunt.” He smiled. \n“He was a creature of habit.” A voice joined in, tucked in behind the rocks. \n“Who, is there?” Amri immediately questioned, not recognizing the voice. The well built, but shorter lion appeared from behind the rock. He was clearly adult, and about the right height for his age, but paled in comparison to Amri’s own. His mane was long, gold at the very front and tinting black the length. His fur seemed well groomed with a light brown tone. His eyes were brown, the color of his fur tinting darker surrounding them. “Damn you, are you spying on me?” Amri demanded. \n“Easy!” The lion hushed. “Observing for my own sake.” \n“Quite likely I’m sure.” \n“Amri? You are Prince Amri, right?” The male asked shyly. Amri sighed, raising his head high and nodded. \n“I was a prince. Not anymore.” The lion shook his head with a smile. \n“Wow, every bit as stubborn looking as dad. It’s no wonder the two of you are related.” He chuckled. \n“What?” Amri inquired. The lion slowly made his way over and extended his paw. \n“It’s good to meet you Uncle Amri. My names Endail, I’m Khiros’ son.” \n“Khiros!” Amri exclaimed. \n“That’s right.” Amri let out a hearty laugh and happily greeted him. \n“I’ll be damned, look at you! My gosh I’m a little embarrassed you look so much like your father.” \n“Well, this ain’t his, that’s for sure.” Endail laughed, brushing his mane.\n“No, I suppose not.” Amri smiled. \n“So we’re really after you. I don’t get it.” Endail sighed. \n“Oh no.” Amri moaned. “You’re not here with.” \n“My cousin?” Endail replied. “Yeah. Seeing as how I’m the only one who’s put up with all his crap lately.” \n“Lately?” Amri questioned. Endail thought a moment and shook his head to Amri. \n“You know uncle, I’d love to go into more detail, but the less I say considering the circumstance, the better.” He replied unhappy with his own response. \n“Is there any reason to this boy?” Endail nodded. \n“Yeah, there is. Even I have to admit, it was very cowardly of you to leave uncle. Least you gave him a proper burial when he died but, your brother’s death was not enough of a reason to abandon your home.”Amri sighed and gazed heavy heartily at the ground. \n“There was more to it than that.” He breathed, as if trying to hide the statement from his nephew. \n“More to it?” He wondered, trying to catch a glimpse at Amri’s face. “Come on, out with it.” He encouraged. \n“It is nothing I can discuss with you, boy. I’m very sorry.” Amri sighed once more. \n“Hmm, so am I then.” Endail agreed. “I have to go back, but just keep in mind; the next time we meet won’t be so cordial. I have a job to do, and I intend to do it.”\n“I see.” Amri said softly. Endail turned and began walking on, back towards the south. Hanging his head, he spun around and faced Amri once more. \n“My cousin, will do everything he can to hurt you. Keep that in mind uncle.” \n\nEndail exited the southern border of the Pride Lands and began walking out into the open savannah. The grass had grown dry as the hard caked ground seemed to crumble beneath his feet. He kept his head low, thinking deeply on the talk he had with Amri. Wondering if this was truly the right thing to do, the question had begun to rise within him, seeing his own cousins hatred bloom over the recent years. He saw his pride, gathered in the usual location they had claimed. A single tree as the shade with a small pool of water nearby, while the grass was short, patchy and dry. \n“You stupid fuck!” Ghavrah bellowed, fast approaching him. With a hard smash he knocked him to the ground. The blow left him seeing stars as Ghavrah lunged for his throat with his paw. “What the hell were you doing in the Pride Lands boy?!” Endail tried to respond, but the grip on his throat was too tight, the old lion smiled as he watched him struggle to breath. Before the breaking point could be reached, Ezeamaka clocked Ghavrah across the face, breaking the hold on his cousin. He seemed far less phased by the blow but he immediately met him eye to eye. \n“Don’t you ever fucking touch my cousin again! You hear me?!” Ezeamaka shouted. \n“That little wretch was off talking with your father boy. Perhaps if you did what I told you instead of killing our best weapons against the Pride Landers, you’d have Amri in your claws right now!” Ghavrah retorted. \n“Get out of my fucking sight! Amri will be taken on my terms, Ghavrah, not yours! These are my warriors, my mission and my family. You’re here to advise, not undermine me! Now get the fuck out there and find some food! Make yourself useless and stay away from my cousin!” He fired right back. Ghavrah roared and shot around, fuming as he walked away. Ezeamaka spat on the ground and turned to his cousin, still lying on the ground. “Now what the fuck were you doing talking to my father?” he immediately questioned. Endail coughed for a moment to clear his throat. \n“I wanted to meet my uncle Ezea, before you had your way with him.” \n“Why?” \n“Because he’s family.” Endail protested. Ezeamaka leaned down and glared. \n“He isn’t family, he doesn’t deserve our family.” He said quietly. \n“He’s a coward, cousin. Not a monster.” \n“Then why don’t you go ride his dick then, stop wasting my fucking time.” Ezeamaka barked, turning away from him. Endail growled and leapt to his feet, taking Ezea to the ground he growled, staring him in the eyes. He sighed, shaking his head and snatched his cousin’s neck and pulled it close. He gave his forehead a brief kiss and dropped him back to the ground. \n“I made my choice, cousin. I will stand by it to whatever end, just don’t do something you will regret.” Endail begged, departing from his body. \n“Like what?” He asked, rolling onto his stomach. Endail paused and hung his head once more.\n“Like trying to drive your own family away, and killing your father before you know him.” Endail replied. Ezeamaka shook his head and watched his cousin walk on. Rising to his feet, he shook out the dust in his fur and headed over to the tree where Theron was resting. \n“Theron, do me a favor?” He asked. \n“Certainly.” He replied happily. \n“Get eyes on our contact, make sure they aren’t followed tonight.” He instructed.\n“As you wish, my prince.” He sighed, not happy about having to be sent out already. \n“Theron.” Ezeamaka called once more. “They’ll be food when you get back, trust me.” \n“I’ve never doubted you yet, my prince.” Theron bowed, as he rushed off towards the Pride Lands. \n", "writing_bbcode_parsed": "Zazu looked down on the lands below, scouring for any signs of the hostile lions that had attacked the previous day. Though the sky was clouded, it was easy enough to search from the air. The vast distances beyond the Pride Lands were a mere glance away as well as the deserts of the outlands. With Pride Rock in the view behind him, he spotted the six lions circled about, while three others seemed dotted off to the east. He took a deep breath before plunging to the earth.
“Here we go.” He said to himself, swooping just a few feet over head of the crew. “Excuse me! Who calls themselves the leader of this pride?” He called out. Giving a short laugh, Ezeamaka replied.
“Well looky here boys, the king of the Pride Lands sent us a snack.” A few of the others joined him in a laugh while Zazu shivered at the thought. He flew a little ahead of them and took a swing back around.
“Once again, who is the leader!” He called out.
“You are in the presence of Prince Ezeamaka, bird brain.” One of them called out. Zazu rolled his eyes and aimed for the tree branch nearby and settled. Ezeamaka rose to his feet and walked over alone, carrying his devious smirk as he looked up.
“You here to tell me something worth hearing? Or just to make yourself a snack for my boys.” He questioned.
“I am the kings Majordomo. And I come with a message for you.” Zazu announced with a bow.
“Spill it.” Ezeamaka demanded.
“By the request of the king, he asks you and your fellow lions to join him for negotiations.”
“What do you think I am, stupid? I toddle my boys into a trap so he can ambush us with his whole kingdom. Fuck your negotiations!” Ezeamaka barked angrily. The others overheard him and decided to join in gathering around him.
“Don’t ever accuse King Simba of such a deception; he wouldn’t dare butcher a fellow royal! Now, we wish to negotiate a trade to the benefit of us both. In short, we will give Amri into your custody in exchange for no further incursions in our kingdom.” Zazu explained.
“You’re really giving up Amri? Why the hell should I believe that?” Ezeamaka questioned eagerly. Zazu knew now he had his attention, he seemed quite intrigued at the prospect.
“Sadly, Simba must do what is in the best interest of his kingdom, not of himself. Though we have grown fond of him, if he is guilty of such crimes then we cannot steal him away from the justice of your kingdom. However, there is much more detail he wishes to go over with you directly.” Zazu answered, hanging his head to feign dismay. Ezeamaka looked to his pride behind him, he took a brief word with one of the elder males at his side. The old lion he spoke with seemed rather nasty. His raggy fur and ruffled mane were pleasantries compared to his face. His eye was sealed shut from a clearly deep wound he took long ago. His left ear was almost completely gone, while his tail seemed severed at the tip, missing his tuft at the end.
“I might consider it.” Ezeamaka answered, his eyebrow raised with a smile. “But I have my own conditions as well.”
“Such as?” Zazu asked, leaning down and matching his face.
“I pick the time and place. Also, if I have to bring all my boys here, you tell your king he can’t bring anymore than nine of his own.”
“The king will speak with you today; the place is over there in the distance. Do you see the large tree?” He questioned, pointing off towards Rafiki’s tree far off in the distance. “There dwells an elder of our pride, he will act impartially. Because of your, reprehensible behavior towards our kingdom and its denizens I’d say you forfeit your right to pick the time and place.” He countered. “However.” He sighed, pacing across the branch. “Fair is fair, I will tell Simba to only bring eight of his own to the gathering.”
“Fine. When the sun peaks, I’ll be there. Your king, better not be late. I’m not good with disappointment.” He threatened calmly.
“He will be there.” Zazu announced, bounding from the branch into the air. He took high into the sky aimed straight for Pride Rock. Ezeamaka looked to his friend and chuckled.
“Might just walk out of here with him afterall.”
“Don’t be stupid, boy.” The elder quickly dismissed. “You’d be a damn fool to think he’ll give up Amri so easily.”
“Gahvrah your paranoia is inspiring and annoying as all hell.” Ezeamaka laughed, casually walked passed him. “Let’s just say if they don’t meet there end, you’ll get to have all the fun you want.”
“Do not patronize me boy, I will do as I please.” Gahvrah argued quietly.
“What was that!?” Ezeamaka snapped back. Biting his tongue, Gahvrah hung his head.
“My apologies, your majesty.” He replied, looking to him momentarily.

“Cuzzy don’t go!” Dasha shouted, reaching up for Nathari. Smiling he bowed down and squeezed him against his cheek.
“I’ll be fine, don’t worry.” Nathari insisted comforting him. Stara was already cuddled up with Saeska while Aurok waited his turn behind Dasha.
“You gotta tell me everything about your adventure ok?” Dasha pleaded as he released himself from Nathari’s grip.
“No problem.” Nathari agreed with a wink. Aurok walked around his cousin and leaned into Nathari’s face for a moment as well.
“I wish I was going with you. This sounds like it’d be fun.” He complained.
“Make it sound like it’s the only adventure we’re ever gonna have. We’ll have plenty as you get older I’m sure.” Nathari argued.
“Yeah I guess.” He sighed; Nathari nudged him bouncing him up a bit.
“Come on, cheer up. Where’s that famous smile?” He encouraged, bumping him over and over. Giggling he toppled Aurok over, throwing him into a laughing fit. “There we go.” Nathari laughed as well, pulling the young cub to his feet.
“Ready to go Mr. Nathari?” Saeska asked, taking to his side.
“Yeah.” He nodded. Simba was set aside Rafiki, bathing his paw in the fresh juices held within a hollowed melon on the floor. He nodded for Nathari, giving him his shoulder Simba pressed his paw on each, imprinting his mark on him. Saeska followed in behind and took her imprint as well. Kopa and Keyah both rushed to them from behind Simba, not long followed by Amri and Hakima. They took Saeska into their arms, switching off kissing her and caressing her back while Keyah moved in closer to her son.
“Son, please be careful.” Keyah pleaded, pressing her head to his.
“I will, don’t worry.” He whispered, quietly kissing her cheek. Kopa stole him away, holding him, careful not to distort the imprint on his son’s shoulder.
“We’ll handle him till you get back. Do you remember the way?” Kopa asked urgently.
“Yeah, once I get out passed the forest beyond the desert of the outlands, I got it no problem.” Nathari answered proudly. Simba smiled, joining their conversation.
“Timon, Pumbaa and I know that place very well. We called it home for a long time before we returned here.” He reminisced. Nala giggled, brushing his side up to his cheek.
“I wonder who talked you into doing that?”
“Well, it’s time.” Amri announced. Pacing over to his daughter he squeezed one more hug. “Be careful you two.”
“We will. I love you daddy.” She cooed in his arms.
“You’re my baby girl, always. I love you so much.” He answered her, stammering a bit as he spoke. She giggled and released herself from his grip.
“Don’t get too cozy, we’ll be back before you know it.” Nathari proudly stated, making his way to the entrance. Saeska smiled, turning away from her father and joined him.
“Let’s go love; hopefully Akinlana will listen to us.” Nathari nodded, and burst out the den with Saeska hot on his tail. Amri, Hakima, Simba, Nala, Kopa and Keyah watched from the rock as the two bodies began to fade in the distance. Amri smiled, nodding as they disappeared.
“Good, they kept north. Out of sight of Ezeamaka I hope.”
“Yes.” Simba agreed.
“Sire!” Zazu called aloud overhead. “It won’t be long before you are due to meet with the beast. Best make your choice of who to bring now and move.  
“Right. Kopa, Kovu, Ni, Asani, you guys are in for certain.” Simba decided, pointing them out one by one.
“I’m going to.” Nala insisted, joining his side. Simba smiled, not up for arguing the idea.
“Alright. Ysura, you as well.” Sierra bounced to her feet and walked over alongside her.
“I’m in.” Sierra decided. Vitani rushed to her side.
“Me too.”
“Whoa! No way, not in your condition.” Asani interjected. Vitani growled, forcing Asani back onto his backside.
“I’m not some prissy little mate for you to defend, Asani. This is just as much my home as it is yours. So either get used to the idea I'm going, or I'll clobber you an haul your sorry ass there." She threatened casually with Sierra smiling at her side.
"Alright, jeez."
“That’s nine then. Hakima, Amri. I trust you to watch Pride Rock until we return.” Simba ordered as he group assembled to him.
“Do me a favor, Simba.” Amri requested.
“What is it?”
“Ask him, how Serwa passed away. What happened to her, I would like to know this.” He asked solemnly. Simba hummed the thought over a moment before deciding to go agree.
“Alright, I’ll ask. Come everyone, let’s go.”

Rafiki waited atop the tree. He would occasionally glance down nervously, awaiting the arrival of either party. It wasn’t long though, Ezeamaka lead his team towards the base of the tree. Rafiki watched each footstep they took carefully and calm, smiling even as they approached. Ezea took to the head of the pack and saw him up on the branch.
“The fuck are you doing here chimp, beat it!” He called out condescendingly. Rafiki smiled, bounding down and planting himself just inches before him.
“I am Rafiki, and you, are the son of Amri, yes?” He questioned coolly, looking the boy over from head to toe.
“Hah, I’m prince Ezeamaka of the High Reach. An you, monkey boy are less than a few minutes from being lunch if you keep poking and prodding.” He retorted with a smirk. Rafiki gave a low chuckle and looked off towards Pride Rock. Seeing Simba on the way leading the eight others aside him.
“I’m glad that you have at least come to negotiate.” Rafiki added in once more.
“I’m here, for Amri’s head.” He quickly interjected giving a brief snap toward him.
“Are you? What a terrible waste. To have found your father after all these years, just to kill him. Seems like an awful shame to me.”
“Shut your mouth you overgrown rodent.” He snapped once more, returning his attention to Simba. Ghavrah broke from the line, taking his time approaching Ezeamaka's side. Leaning into his ear he whispered.
"Do not let the foolish king intimidate you boy, remember, you are of royal blood. Force him, to respect that." Ezeamaka gave a quick nod, a loud huff escaped as Ghavrah walked away. Simba halted the others, slowing making his way over to Ezeamaka now and sitting before him.
"Thank you for coming." Simba greeted half-heartily.
"Ha." Ezeamaka scoffed, planting himself down as well. "Spare the pleasantries and let's get down to business." Simba sighed, giving his eyes a quick rub.
"Very well. I have one immediate demand." He began. "You must stop all hostile activity toward pride and prey alike within my kingdom!"
"The hostility will end when you submit the murderer of our prince!" He immediately fired back.
"Amri has told me of that day. Your "Prince" challenged him, they both nearly died. There was no murder committed." Simba argued, softening his tone.
"No matter. That is for my uncle to decide. It's his demand that Amri be found and brought home immediately."
"You two nearly fought to the death?! Why should I believe, leaving him with you will mean anything but his death!" Simba retorted. Ezeamaka huffed with a smile, rising up he began pacing back and forth.
"I will admit, I have been a bit… Brash, with my intents. Certainly you could understand how volatile things within a family can become?" He questioned. Simba gave him a most puzzled look. "Oh, I'm sorry. You didn't seriously believe such a battle between your uncle Scar and yourself could be kept quiet did you? Word reached us, we heard of these things."
"How?!" Simba questioned eagerly. Ezeamaka wore his smile still, giving a moment before his next reply.
"We share certain aspects between kingdoms. News from the underground, among other things. Besides, Simba. As large and healthy as your pride is, the last thing you need is another war." Simba growled low, he began to mirror Ezea's walking pattern. Ezeamaka watched with pride, he knew he was getting to him now. "Simba, perhaps I should offer an apology for the most recent attacks. Some of my boys here are, reckless." He snapped back, feigning aggression. "And unruly. Any they know the consequences of such action."
"An apology is the least you owe!" Nala piped up from behind. Taking to Simba's side she settled him down and returned her attention to him. "Your "Boys" have been raping the game they kill, not to mention other predators. And let’s not forget how we discovered you, trying to take your own half sister to yourself."
"Oh don't remind me." He shy'd away. "Now that much was regrettable. I am many things my dear lady, the least to say assertive with my females. But to procreate with my own sister, would make my stomach wretch."
“Amri should have taken your fucking head.” Asani whispered, his eyes fixated on Ezeamaka. It was enough to catch his attention, smiling he gave him a quick huff and resumed his conversation with Simba.
“If Amri is what you want, there are terms to his release to you. Ones I expect to be followed to the word.” Simba demanded, sitting upright before him. “The first of which, is that in your custody, he is not to be harmed by you. If he is guilty of any crime, let your own king decide his fate.” He stated. Ezeamaka rolled his eyes, shifting a quick glance to Ghavrah behind him. The old lion nodded and he swung his attention to Simba.
“Done, what else?”
“The second, is that no more harm befall any creatures within our kingdom! Also you cannot interfere with our lionesses as they work to bring more game back to our home. Last but not least, since he is hurt and I have absolutely no trust in you, I need a show of good faith before I turn Amri to you. A minimum of one week’s time where none of your pride engage in hostile acts towards us.” He declared, rising to his feet once again.
“You ask a high price for something that already belongs to us!” Ezeamaka barked.
“Boy!” Ghavrah shouted. Ezea turned around briefly, pondering his outburst. Ghavrah gestured him over and he followed, whispering something in his ear for a moment. Ezeamaka closed his eyes, heaving a heavy sigh as he returned to meet before Simba.
“Fine. But I also have a condition.” He stated firmly. Simba, gave a bit of a lean and listened. “My boys here won’t do with just the food scattered outside your borders. They need to eat to live; you must permit us a minimum of one hunt in your kingdom a day.” Simba nodded, satisfied with the request.
“Very well, I have little issue with that. Take a kill or two a day of your choice, but be mindful of my demands. We need that game coming back to feed our kingdom.”
“Hmm, I’ll keep that in mind.” He replied with a smirk. Satisfied for now, Simba seemed ready to step away, but Amri’s request from before had crept back into his mind. To ask, the way his former mate had perished.
“There’s something your father wants to know, Ezeamaka.” Simba said, snagging his attention once again. “How did your mother die?”
“Hah!” He scoffed turning from Simba.
“Grant your father this favor at least.” Simba snarled. Ezeamaka slowly turned back to Simba with the same smirk on his face.
“She died from starvation, waiting in his den for him to come home.”
“That must have been hard for you.” Simba answered. Ezeamaka shrugged, his eyes closed a moment.
“Who cares, I hardly knew the bitch. I sucked the milk I needed out of her before she bit it, so like I give a fuck what happens after that.” Asani chuckled as well, shaking his head at Ezeamaka.
“Sucks huh? That’s probably the closest your gonna get to a female ever again.” He quipped.
“In one week’s time then, you will turn Amri over to us. But I swear, Simba. Break your word, and I’ll take the head of your queen first while you watch!” He threatened angrily. Simba, Asani and Ni growled at the statement and lowered their heads slightly. Ezeamaka gave a soft laugh while turning to his pride, looking them over for a moment he nodded to them. “Let’s go boys!” Simba and the others watched as they ran off to the south. The crew began to talk amongst each other as Kopa broke away, walking toward Rafiki who seemed content to sit and meditate.
“Rafiki?” Kopa asked shyly. He smiled and opened his eyes, looking to him.
“Yes boy?”
“Do you think they will owe up to their end?” Rafiki pondered, stroking his chin as he looked away briefly.
“The boy may try. His desire for revenge is all that drives him, but it is the elder there. The large one, he worries me.” He stated, slowly turning back to meet Kopa’s eyes.
“Why?” Kopa wondered.
“There is darkness in that heart the likes I have never seen.” He simply replied rising to his feet. Taking to his tree he concealed himself from there sight. Kopa gazed up momentarily before Ni pat his shoulder, stealing his attention.
“Coming little brother? We’re heading back.” He asked with a smile.
“Yeah, let’s go.” He nodded, walking aside him as they rejoined the crowd.

Saeska and Nathari had begun crossing the deserts of the outlands. The pillars of Kovu’s former home far behind them with nothing but open desert ahead. They kept their pace brisk yet steady, Saeska guilty of trying to stay ahead for the majority of the trip so far. Nathari kept his eyes on the horizon, waving sand dunes and gusty winds ahead he knew would be hard on them both.
“Saeska, let’s take it down a bit. We have to try to cross the dunes up ahead before nightfall; we need to keep a sustainable pace.” He called out. She glanced back for a moment and eased he pace a little, allowing him to catch up to her side. “Look if we-“
“Nathari, stuff the safety first attitude, my father’s life is on the line! If you can’t keep up, then stay behind!” She snapped before bolting ahead. He glared, unimpressed with her response and threw himself into high gear, rushing up to her side once more. She kept her eyes fixated a head for a while, seemingly entranced by the coming horizon. Finally she gave him a quick look before growling aloud. She shot off to the right a bit, aimed for a sand dune a good height up.
“What is she doing?” Nathari asked himself, watching her try to rush the face of the dune. He took the route around and lost sight of her for a few seconds. Seeing her come down the other side she was leaping the dune, kicking down mounds of sand as she descended its slopes. She was ahead, and seemed alright so far, but he kept a good eye on her run down. As she neared the basin, her foot fell strange and she began to tumble, the sand that followed her nearly shrouded her entire body. Nathari gasped and rushed to intercept. He managed to snatch her from the roll and tumbled only a moment to halt her. Pinned underneath him, he slowly moved himself off and coughed. “Crap, this stuff gets everywhere.” He complained, shaking his fur out.
“Who cares, let’s go!” Saeska insisted, giving her paw a quick shake before taking just a few steps ahead of him.
“Saeska!” Nathari snapped snatching her attention. “Don’t ever pull a stunt like that again on this trip.” She turned to him with a condescending smile and asked.
“Oh really? We need to get there fast. If we go straight up and over we’ll get there in half the time.” She corrected.
“Yeah? And suppose you break your leg next time, dancing down the hills like an idiot. You need to get there in once piece, or why bother going at all?” He swiftly countered. She walked in closer to him, pointing back off toward the Pride Lands.
“My father is back there wounded, we are out here, and there are nine, full grown males, four of which are trained killers waiting for a chance to get at his throat!” She angrily stated.
“My father’s back there to!”
“You don’t even know your damn father!” She snapped once more, but this time in realizing what she had said, her expression changed rapidly. She seemed just as shocked as him now that it came out. Nathari growled a moment, walking passed her. “Nathari, oh no, please forgive me. I didn’t mean-“
“We’ll discuss it later.” He shouted, refusing to meet her eye to eye. Saeska tried to think of something to say, but her mind was out run by his footsteps. As Nathari raced ahead, she coaxed herself into catching up, staying a little distance behind him. The rest of their day was quiet, approaching the edge of the jungles that Timon, Pumbaa and Simba once called home. The night began to descend as Nathari carefully searched the shallow reaches within. Finding a large tree with a bowl like shape to its roots, satisfied, he decided to rest his body there. Saeska still felt awful, pawing at the ground just a few feet behind him. She was attempting to muster up the courage to talk to him.
“This will have to do for the night.” He called out, still not giving her as much as a glance. She perked up as he spoke, but lowered her head after. Walking over to him, she gently patted his back.
“Nathari, I’m really sorry.” She breathed.
“Just.” He tried to start, finally looking to her, seeing her eyes in pain he sighed and lowered his head once more. “Forget it.”
“Can you please forgive me?” She begged, leaning closer to him.
“Yes.” He answered half-heartedly. Unsatisfied she rushed around his body and forced him to meet her face.
“I love you, please don’t be mad.” She pleaded once more. He raised his head, meeting her face with concern.
“I love you too, but Saeska I’m worried about you. You’ve changed since, you know.” He suggested, hinting at the morning Ezeamaka tried to rape her.
“It’s not that.” She quickly dismissed.
“Saeska, tell me what’s wrong?” He pleaded now, rising up to hold her. She moaned leaning into his chest as his arm came around her back.
“I love my daddy. I don’t’ want to lose him.” She cried softly.
“You won’t!” He insisted, holding her a little tighter. “We’re going to make sure of that.”
“It’s so different than before. When we lived on our own, he fought to defend us from these small groups. He was so strong, he could defeat anyone. But this Ezeamaka, my half brother.” She said with some disgust. “Wants to take his head! Why? Why not get to know daddy!? Why is he so cruel!? I’ve seen mean lions before, but it’s like he delights in this.” Nathari gazed down at the earth, feeling her cry into his chest. He thought of his own memories of Ezeamaka when he lived at home with his mother.
“Ever since Ghavrah.” He whispered, trailing off. He thought about saying more, the need to comfort the lioness in his arms was more pressing. He kept her close, running his paw the length of her back, calming her down from her little fit. “I love you. Don’t’ worry, we’ll save your dad.”
“We will.” She agreed, lowering herself with him to the ground. Nathari laid on his side, taking her into his body, her head resting on his neck. “Hah, the Keyah position.” She thought aloud.
“Yeah, I’ve seen mom and dad sleep this way a lot.” He agreed, giving her a quick squeeze.
“Good night my love.” She whispered, slowly closing her eyes.
“Good night lover.”

Back at home, Keyah, Kinu and Kiara had taken to the savannah. Kinu in particular was happy to be out for a while, usually stuck inside tending to her son.
“Feels great huh?” Keyah asked, nudging her sister’s side.
“Been too long. I gotta admit, I’ve been craving the feel of the wind.” She replied turning to Kiara.
“Great, so you guys gonna show me more about hunting huh?” She questioned, bounding around them.
“Sort of, we have to pressure the game back into the Pride Lands.” Keyah corrected.
“I’ve been listening to the lionesses inside. There’s a large zebra herd that has moved off to the east. If we don’t flush them out, they could wander further.” Kinu explained.
“Well what are we waiting for, come on girls!” Kiara cheered, rushing off to the east. Kinu and Keyah followed and quickly took to either side of the sprinting princess. Kiara looked to the two with a grin and chuckled.
“Think you can outrun me?” She challenged.
“Easily!” Kinu answered, firing a grin back to her. Kiara looked ahead and bolted. Kinu not far behind while Keyah watched them race ahead of her.
“Oh wow, she hasn’t lost her touch yet.” She complimented, watching her sister race. Rushing through the grasslands and passed the games watering hole, they carried on into savannah that lead to the edge of the canyon. Smiling Keyah looked on, seeing the great depths of it below, recognizing the path that lead them to the elephant graveyard. The height though was what astonished her most, to scale down was impossible. The drop was shear, nearly three hundred feet down. Kinu and Kiara took to her side as she admired the view.
“Remember?” Keyah asked, Kinu immediately nodded and smiled looking down. Kiara examined their faces, somewhat baffled by their attraction to it.
“What’s up?” Keyah smiled at her before looking back down.
“I remember when we were walking those paths. We followed it into the elephant graveyard.”
“Yeah.” Kinu laughed, huddling a little closer to her sister. “And Sierra stalked us through the passages.” The two shared a laugh before taking a turn back to the savannah.
“What’s it like, outside our kingdom I mean.” Kiara asked a little shyly. Kinu turned her head the side with a deep breath.
“It’s rough sometimes. We had a few close calls out there.”
“No I mean the places you’ve seen. The things you’ve done. I’ve spent my whole life here in the Pride Lands.” Kiara continued to press.
“Well.” Keyah thought a moment. “It’s not a whole lot different. One of the more beautiful places we saw was just beyond that shadowy place. Sis, what did they call it again?”
“The deep.”
“Right, that’s it. Once we stepped out into that valley it was amazing.”
“Especially after being in that muggy jungle.” Kinu quipped.
“If I recall, my little sister became a true lioness in that jungle.” Keyah touted with her head up high.
“Little sister?” She scoffed. “Besides, that place isn’t special to me. Just what I got out of it. I couldn’t ask for a better lover.”
“He made an impression on ya huh?” Kiara perked in with a chuckle.
“Oh yeah.” Kinu laughed, bumping her side.
“What did make you change your mind sis? Remember how you used to be around the boys?”
“Yes, Keyah. I recall, but Ni was always gentle with me, even when I was hurt. He has a soft air about him, so wise, and calming.” She fawned, recalling there time together months earlier.
“I’m really proud of you sis. I was lucky, it felt like me and Kopa were meant to be, but you really grew and let yourself open up.” Keyah stated, leaning into her sisters side as they walked.
“I found a good lover, we all did.” She cooed, nuzzling her sister’s cheek. Not wanting to leave Kiara out, Kinu gave Kiara’s cheek a quick lick. “And now we have a big family, and a home to call our own.” Giggling a moment, they heard the strangest of sounds off to the right, buried it seemed under the shade of a tree and tall grass. A male lion arose, clapping his paws slowly as they gradually turned to him.
“Well well, quite the little story.” The male said, revealing himself fully. The trio growled and squared off with him immediately. “Chill out!” The male called. “I’m not here to hurt anyone. Just to casually observe.”
“Yeah right!” Keyah retorted angrily, keeping her fangs bared.
“I’m quite serious. My so-called prince ordered me not to interfere, so I won’t interfere. But he said nothing about observing.” He stated, waving his finger.
“Then observe us, walking away from you.” Kinu fired back, leading the others on.
“Happily.” He smiled, keeping pace with the three girls. Kiara and Keyah both noticed him following and halted.
“What do you think you’re doing?” Kiara demanded. The male feigned shock and smiled.
“I’m not doing anything. I follow my orders since they keep my head on my shoulders. So like I said, I’ll just observe you beautiful lionesses.” He coolly answered. Kiara began to grow infuriated and stomped closer to him.
“I am princess Kiara, heiress to the Pride Lands and I’m ordering you to leave us alone, immediately!”
“Anyone ever tell you princess, you’re stunningly hot when you’re angry.” He flirted, shining her on with his teeth as he smiled.
“Ugh!” She turned away disgusted. “I’m married you jerk!”
“Mmm yeah, bet you could brood up a whole kingdom of cubs huh?” He said softly, leering at her body.
“Gross! Get away from us!” She protested.
“Hey, jackass!” Kinu shouted. “We’re not out here on some leisurely stroll; we have a job to do. One more word out of you and we’ll relay to Simba how you broke the deal by harassing the king’s daughter.” Keyah smiled as her sister threatened the male.
“Hmm.” He pondered, keeping the smile on his face. “My apologies girls. I will, keep to my observations then.” He replied turning away. He gave one quick look back and said aloud. “And my thoughts, to myself.” The girls shuddered and walked on ahead at a much more brisk pace. Trying their best to forget their stalker, they took a bit further east and found there target. The herd was wondering about the thick grass, almost to the border of the Pride Lands. Kinu huddled the girls down and began to give direction.
“Keyah, you flank the left, I’ll get the right. Kiara, I want you to handle strays. If they start moving off course cause of a few zebra, I want you to force them back.”
“Got it.” Kiara confirmed.
“The tree line there?” Keyah asked, gesturing behind them.
“Get em beyond it, closer to the watering hole. It should keep em close.” Kinu agreed. The girls broke and took formation around the zebra herd. Keeping a good distance so not to be smelt by them, they found their positions. Kinu raised her tail high, signaling her sister. The two counted down and burst from the grass, frightening the herd. They whinnied and raced away, thinking they might be next to be the girls dinner. The herd fell suit and began to race west. Kiara rushed alongside, ensuring no strays would break away. A few young, trying to avoid being trampled attempted to break away. Kiara roared in, the young zebras snapped direction, meeting their mothers as they kept west. The girls grew smiles across their faces, it was exhilarating to run alongside the herd, hearing the thunderous hooves as they seemingly rode alongside the storm of black and white. Laughing as they rushed, they broke through the tree line, the watering hole just off to the right. Kiara and Kinu put the pressure on the left flank to maneuver them toward it. Keyah broke off, letting them pass she watched them travel with a smile. She didn’t wait long before Kinu and Kiara rejoined her, both wearing the same smiles.
“What a rush!” Kiara beamed, bouncing around the girls.
“Oh yeah girls! We still got it!” Kinu cheered, clapping their paws.
“You certainly do!” The male called once again. The smiles on their faces melted as they swung around to see him standing not a few feet away.
“Ugh, get lost!” Kiara shouted.
“Whoa?! Why the hostility? The compliment was genuine.” He reinforced, walking toward them. The girls huddled close and watched him closely. Pausing he looked them over, taking particular focus on Kiara. “Don’t worry, I’m not gonna bite. That is, unless you want me to.” He chuckled.
“Sick, freaking jerk.” Kiara spouted turning away.
“I’m a direct male, what can I say? But the least I should do, is offer my name to three beautiful lionesses like yourselves.” He stated, giving a brief bow. “My name is Theron. A wild lion. It’s nice to see such skilled females. Too many lionesses I meet in kingdoms want to be coddled and pampered. It’s enjoyable to see.” He cleared his throat. “Such form.”
“A wild lion? Aren’t you from the High Reach like the rest?” Kinu questioned.
“No my dear lady, though I was born not far from their borders. I joined with Ezeamaka when he-“
“Theron!” A raspy voice called. Grunting he looked behind him to see an elder lion approaching.
“Oh brilliant, the old fucker is trying it again.” He whispered to himself. Turning to them he bowed once more. “Forgive me my beautiful girls; I’ll address the old buffoon myself.” He turned back to see the elder walking up to him, unimpressed he met him eagerly. “Now I’ve told you, finders keepers. Go get your own-“ The old lion smashed him hard across the face before he could finish his sentence.
“Shut the fool mouth. You’ve been summoned by the prince; now get the fuck out of my sight.” He softly scolded. Shaking out his head, he pat his lip to feel for blood. Glaring him in the eyes he smiled again.
“Sleep well tonight, you senile fuck.” He quipped, passing by him. The old lion growled as he passed by, turning his attention to the trio. Kinu and Keyah seemed in shock, the face of the old lion was most familiar. The one scar that cut across his cheek, from the fight long ago that freed them from his grasp. The lion smiled, looking the two over.
“Well well well. Look what we have here.” He smiled, ogling the girls.
“Don’t even think about it!” Kiara quickly retorted.
“Whether I think about it or not is irrelevant. Since, you’re the only flesh here I haven’t had the taste for yet.”
“What?” Kiara gasped, turning to the two. Keyah and Kinu both looked on in horror.
“You… It can’t be.” Keyah stammered.
“Rohaj, is my name young princess. As you can see, I make quite an impression on the people I, entangle with.” He snickered as he paced around them. “It seems you two have grown up quite well haven’t you. Firm bodies, groomed coat, your sleek figure. Though perhaps not quite the… exact size I prefer. Tell me, girls, had any fair daughters as of late?”
“You son of a bitch. You stay away from us!” Keyah shouted, Rohaj seemed hardly phased by her outburst.
“Good, so it’s yours then.” He concluded in a soft, sickening tone. “Nothing quite like the young, so tight and relieving. Wouldn’t you agree, Kinu?”
“No.” Kinu spoke softly at first. She slowly raised her head, her eyes in fury at the mere sight of the old and twisted lion. “No I will not let you even try it!”
“Shut the fuck up you sniveling rat! Or I’ll kill you’re litter of cock sheaths before your eyes.” He fired back. It seemed with little notice he could shift from his calm tone to a violent and aggressive nature.
“You’ll never touch my son, my niece or my nephew!” She boldly answered, breaking from the girls. “You will never have control over us again! I’ll tear your fucking head off myself before you get the chance!” Rohaj shot a solid strike across her face, Kinu spat up from the blow and nearly fell to the ground.
“Remember your place you little slut!” He scolded raising his paw once again. Kinu quickly fired a shot across his face, claws fully extended she ripped through his cheek, spinning his head to the side.
“My place is here. My life is my own, and you will die if you so much as touch my family.” She barked once more, watching as he returned his gaze to hers. Calmly he pat his cheek, feeling the blood soak his hand and giving it a quick lick.
“I see you’ve developed a little courage since the last time we met, Kinu.” He took yet another swift shot across her face with the back of his paw, knocking her to the ground with a huff. “But no matter, I’ll break you all the same.” Kiara and Keyah jumped in, Keyah giving her sister a quick check to make sure she was ok. “One by one, you’ll bow to me, and serve me in all the ways I demand.” Kiara growled, but caught the image of something behind Rohaj and smiled.
“Don’t count on it, you creep!” She snapped. Rohaj raised an eyebrow and turned around, meeting Ni face to face. Smiling he nodded to the lion.
“Long time, asshole!” He snapped, slashing the same side Kinu had struck, throwing the lion to the ground in the process. Ni rushed to Kinu, checking her and rubbing her cheek with is paw. “Lover, are you ok?”
“Ni… Thank goodness.” She moaned.
“Girls, get her home. Send for Asani and Kopa to my aid. Till then, I’ll deal with him.” He instructed.
“You’ll regret that strike boy. You already break the agreement we made.” Rohaj stated, rising to his feet.
“You struck first you son of a bitch, I saw what you did to my lover.” Ni countered.
“Is that so?” He questioned, giving his cheek another pat.
“If I had known then what I know about you know, Rohaj. I would have told Amri to put you in the ground when we fought. But thankfully, I get that privilege now don’t I?” Rohaj threw his head back and laughed.
“You pathetic little weakling, you think you can stand your ground against me?!” He taunted, leaning in closer to Ni’s face. Ni grew a cocky smile and glared into his eyes.
“You are no match for me, whatsoever.” Rohaj snarled and took a hard shot for Ni aimed straight at his face. Ni caught the blow and deflected it away, the barrage began, Rohaj throwing his paws hard for Ni’s head over and over, backing him off slightly with each blow. Ni grew tired of the predictable strikes, taking one of his lazier throws and tossing him off balance. Ni shot to his chin with the back of his paw, crashing down once more across the face of twisted lion.
Rohaj roared, backing off from the strike. Ni immediately moved in, leaping for Rohaj, he caught his head in his arms and rolled, tossing the old lion on his back. With ease he swung his body over and started to return the favor, barraging his face with hard shots. Rohaj gave another roar, placing his feet on Ni’s belly and tossed him. Ni’s lighter weight was thrown far and rolled as he landed, he quickly recovered, taking to his feet and squaring himself with Rohaj once more.
“You foolish little lion, when I get my claws on you-“
“You’ll what?!” Ni interrupted. “Can’t exactly make me suck your cock you sick fuck, I’m not some helpless cub!”
“I’ll make you beg for your life!” Rohaj angrily barked. Ni shook his head, disgusted by the old lion.
“You just don’t get it do you, you’re fat, slow, uncoordinated and have piss poor aim. Let me show you how to really fight.” With that, Ni leapt for the old lion once more. He bounded to his feet, hoisting both of them up in the process. Ni smiled, jumping up and kicking off the old lion’s chest, his swift shot threw him into a back flip landing well on the ground while Rohaj was shot down on hard, slamming the ground he was winded and stunned. Ni targeted the stomach and punched deep, twisting his fist to provoke the agony of the blow. Rohaj gasped from the strike as Ni took a second shot with his head aimed at the sternum. Feeling the most subtle crack with the strike he watched Rohaj writhe in agony on the ground. “Get up!” Ni demanded. The old lion coughed while Ni backed off.
Rising to his feet, Rohaj locked his scowl on Ni, growling and snarling as he struggled to maintain his balance. Ni observed him carefully, focused on his chest, waiting for the next move from the sluggish old lion. Rohaj darted back in, faking a blow for Ni’s chin. Ni moved to block and fell for the decoy, as Rohaj  slammed down hard across Ni’s face, laying open his cheek. His eyes slammed tight from the slashing hit, but he didn’t cry out in pain. Instead, Ni slowly opened his eyes, turning to the smiling old lion.
“How’d you like that, you cocky prick?” Rohaj taunted. Ni didn’t say a word, just continued to glare deep into the old lion’s eyes, he watched as the grotesque face turned to rage once more. Winding up another strike, he aimed once again for the cheek. Ni knew what to expect, as the blow fell short of its mark, Rohaj’s other paw rising to find his chin. Ni caught this blow, and threw his arm down, and with one fell swing he hammered down on the side of Rohaj’s arm, breaking it in a single blow. The old lion roared in agony, falling to his side as Ni backed away, giving attention to the wound on his face.
He watched him roll on the ground in pain, tucking his shattered arm close to his chest.
“Pathetic.” Ni commented, as the huffing and crying started to slow from the old lion. Ni looked behind him to see the figure of a large lion approaching them. He had a feeling he knew who it was. The old lion managed his way to his feet, standing on the three he could work with as Ezeamaka approached him from behind.
“Master! Thank goodness you’re here. Kill this treacherous scum!” He pleaded. Ezeamaka stared down at him for a moment, eventually shifting his eyes to Ni.
“Your girl, was injured by the old fuck wasn’t he?” He questioned. Ni grew worried now, moving a little closer he shouted.
“What did you do to them!?” He demanded. Ezeamaka leapt for Ni and tackled him to the ground. Pinning him by the throat he kept a firm grip as he leaned in close to his ear.
“Not, a fucking, thing.” He replied in a firm, angry tone. Ezeamaka rose from his body and turned his attention to Rohaj. Ni slowly got up, shaking off the hit to the ground.
“You’re late master, this rat tried to attack-“
“Shut the fuck up.” He snapped calmly. “Rohaj, why did you go against my orders and attack the female?” He questioned.
“She.. I mean.” He clamored for a reason. “She insulted us, disrespected you my prince. I only meant to defend your-“
“I don’t give a fuck what they said!!” He screamed at the top of his lungs, toppling the lion to the ground. “You do not, go against my orders!” He barked, snaring Rohaj’s neck. “And you do not get between me and my father!” Giving that final lecture, he dug his claws deep into Rohaj’s throat and ripped clean across.
“What are you doing!?” Ni cried out. Ezeamaka smiled, watching the old lion choke on his own blood, as it poured from his neck and soaked the grass. Within moments his eyes glazed over as he died. Ni slowly walked over, getting a better view of Ezeamaka’s face. He continued to smile, looking the old lion over. What resonated with Ni however, was how strikingly similar the smile was to Amri’s, yet the reason behind it, was so much more twisted. In a snap he turned to Ni, returning to his usual mug.
“What!?” He demanded.
“You, look just like your father.” Ni stated, Ezeamaka smiled and rolled his eyes.
“Hahaha, ahh the old fucker has you whipped well doesn’t he?”
“Your fathers a great lion. It’s too bad I can’t say the same about his son.” Ni quipped. Ezeamaka took a swift shot to Ni’s face, halting his paw just shy, his claw not even an inch from his eye. Ni was stunned, he couldn’t believe he pulled the punch so fast on him.
“My father, is a fucking coward. Right now, I’m the great lion that spared your life. You keep that in mind, Ni.” He warned softly. Ezeamaka saw Kopa and Asani moving in swiftly now. Darting to Ni’s ear he whispered. “I will keep my word so long as you deliver what I have been promised. But you so much as make one, wrong step, Ni. I’ll feed your little fucking whelp to you, before you die.” Ni felt a shudder shake his body, it was rare he ever felt intimidated by a foe, but Ezeamaka was doing it well. He backed off as the two arrived with fangs bared.
“Get away from him!” Kopa shouted angrily.
“You fucking two timing pussy! You couldn’t resist attacking us!” Asani chipped in. Ni leapt in front of the two.
“No don’t!” Ni insisted. Kopa and Asani looked to him confused as Ni glanced back at Ezeamaka, smiling at him. “He wasn’t the one who attacked us, it was him.” Ni advised, pointing to Rohaj’s body. “Ezeamaka killed him for breaking the agreement.” Ezeamaka gave a semi polite bow as he explained. Kopa looked at the body then back to Ezeamaka.
“That’s the second time you’ve killed your own pride member.” He barked.
“Well, I was shooting for three but, you went and spared the last little wretch.” He coolly replied.
“Kopa.” Asani dismissed, pushing him back as he started towards Ezeamaka. Ni pat his shoulder trying to stop him but Asani put it down and continued. Taking a spot right to his face he meet the big lion nearly eye to eye. He kept a firm stare, waiting to see if he would make a move on him. Finally Asani cracked a smile. “Thanks asshole.” Ezeamaka laughed a moment.
“Oh whatever for?” he asked sarcastically.
“You spared the girls, and got rid of this cub fucker for us. Now you’re down to eight, and a little less of a threat.” He explained. “Keep it up, friend. Maybe you can kill the rest of your boys, spare us the trouble.” Ezeamaka laughed softly once more, staring into Asani’s eyes.
“I like you.” He smiled.
“Yeah?” Asani questioned.
“But I think I’ll like you better as a throw rug.”
“Yeah? Gotta do better then you did against your pappy.” Asani smiled.
“Oh don’t worry. Keep running your mouth like this, you’ll get your chance.” Ezeamaka nodded.
“Asani!” Ni called out. He didn’t budge, he kept a hard lock on Ezeamaka.
“I’ll be looking forward to it.” He whispered.
“So will I.” Ezeamaka nodded, turning away from him. Giving a few steps he shouted back. “Oh Asani!” He paused a moment. “Tell your little girls, I’m looking forward to meeting your cubs.” This one hit him deep, but he wouldn’t dare let him know it. Asani continued along, rejoining Ni and Kopa.
“How did he know?” Kopa asked urgently. Ni pondered it over a moment while Asani stewed over the remark.
“I think we have a traitor amongst Simba’s pride.” Ni concluded. Kopa hung his head as they slowly paced home.
“A traitor, but who?” He begged Ni.
“I don’t know.”
“We’ll find them.” Asani snarled. “And teach them a lesson they’ll never forget.”

Hakima was working vigilantly to clean the wound across Amri’s chest. Burying her muzzle passed his mane; she licked carefully, each stroke causing Amri to suffer a flash of pain. He kept it well disguised, having grown used to the sensation. She flashed a few final licks before backing away, satisfied with her job.
“That should do it.” She affirmed, smiling to her husband.
“Thank you my love.” He bowed politely, quickly finding Hakima buried in his chest once again. This time to caress his aching body.
“I love you so; my heart grows heavy with worry though as of late.”
“Things are stressful right now to say the least.” Amri agreed, running his chin the length of her neck.
“I cannot lose you, not to this fiend that dares call himself your son.” She softly cried.
“Hush, Hakima. Think no such thing.” He scolded lightly.
“I have lived a long life, and seen many faces in my time.” She began to recall, letting Amri wrap up her body. “But the anger in that boys eyes, it terrifies me. I saw it the day attacked, walking before his pride.”
“I have seen anger like that in Asani.”
“Asani was traumatized and turned feral, this is not the same my love.” She protested.
“Is it?” He questioned. “This boy has lived his life believing I had abandoned him. To discover I am alive, must have sent him into a rage.”
“I would rather it consume him, then you.” She argued.
“Oh, my love.” He sighed, hugging her tight.
“I know what is in your heart; you wish to make peace with him, don’t you?” She questioned. Amri slowly nodded in agreement. “Please, I beg of you do not try this now.”
“I will not be so foolish as to approach him unguarded. He is very strong, but I know I can defeat him in single combat.”
“You did not know he was your son then. You had the fire of your daughters attack pushing you.”
“I have another fire that may yet push me in a coming fight with him.” He argued softly. Hakima looked up, her eyes just brimming with tears. Amri closed his a moment, reflecting on the memories of the High Reach, of the day he fought with his brother. “He, does not know what Serwa did to instigate our battle.”
“Yes, I know.” She whispered, hiding her face in his chest once more.
“Amri?” Nala asked, perking up behind him she gently placed her paw on his shoulder. “Are you doing ok?”
“Yes Nala, I’m healing well thank you.” He nodded.
“Worried for your daughter?” She asked, breaking a smile.
“Always.” He sighed.
“Don’t worry, Nathari and Saeska have grown so strong. I’m sure they’re almost there now.” She encouraged.
“I do hope your right.” Hakima sighed, turning her gaze to the entrance. “My baby girl, be strong.”

Ni and the others arrived home. Kinu had already been tended to her more mild injuries however seeing her mate arrive home bleeding threw her into panic.
“Ni! No!” She cried, leaping to his arms. “Oh baby, your cheek.” She cooed into his neck.
“It’s alright Kinu, I could use your help cleaning it. But first, Kopa?” Ni called, snagging his attention before he could run to Keyah. Kopa darted over and listened.
“What’s up brother?”
“Talk to your father and brother about what we thinks going on, go somewhere, private.” Ni instructed. Kopa nodded and after a short visit with his lover and cubs, he took his father and Kovu’s attention and led them out. Ni submitted and lay down, letting Kinu tend to his injured face. Halake crawled into his arms, leering up at his bleeding father.
“Daddy?” He asked, his voice crackling.
“Yes son?” Ni replied, keeping still for Kinu.
“Are you gonna be ok?” He begged. Ni smiled and pulled him close to his chest.
“Of course son, I’ll be perfectly fine.” Ni comforted, patting his sons backside.
“But daddy, there’s so much red stuff.”
“Shh.” Ni hushed. “It hurts a little son, I won’t lie. But your daddy’s very strong right?”
“Yeah.”
“I’ll be just fine, it’s ok. Do you want to go play with your cuzzies?” Ni suggested. Halake shook his little head, still buried in Ni’s chest.
“I’m staying with you, daddy!” He protested loudly. Ni gave a little laugh at the outburst and cradled his son in his paws.
“Then stay with me.” He agreed.
Kopa, Kovu and Simba had taken outside, remaining quiet until they reached the open savannah. Kopa could see off in the distance the visage of the outlands, as well as the gorge far off to the right. He turned his gaze down, wondering how he was going to discuss with his father the possibility that someone amoungst them, was a traitor. Simba nudged his sons backside with a smile, bringing one out of Kopa in the process.
“Got something on your mind, son?” He asked happily.
“Yeah dad.” He acknowledged, returning his gaze to the ground. Kovu cut a little ahead, halting the stroll as the three settled down.
“Well, come on Kopa, out with it.” Kovu insisted with a smile as well.
“Have you guys ever wondered, how Ezeamaka and his pride seem to know so much about us, yet we only know what Amri and Nathari can tell us?” Kopa began, shifting his glance between the two.
“It has struck me as strange.” Simba agreed. “I think I know where you’re going with this.”
“I think someone in our pride is giving them this information to use against us.” Kopa boldly announced.
“That’s a little disturbing.” Kovu sighed.
“But it might be true. The incident with Scar was years ago, our conflict with Zira is long past as well.”
“And how is it he knows exactly who to bring to this fight?” Kopa threw in. Simba and Kovu both looked to him confused. “Look, the lion that attacked Ni today, was Rohaj. It was the predator who tormented Keyah and Kinu when they were young. How in the world would he know to bring someone like that?”
“Ezeamaka may be smarter then we give him credit for.” Simba thought aloud.
“What’s worse is something that Rafiki told me. That the old one, Ghavrah might be much more cruel then Ezeamaka.”
“When did you hear that?” Kovu asked.
“Just after the negotiations.”
“Rafiki has a talent for seeing what’s in others hearts.” Simba replied as well. “This might be something to take more seriously if we see Ghavrah attempt anything.”
“I’ll see what I can do to investigate who has been leaking information about us to their pride.” Kovu stated.
“Sounds good.” Simba agreed. “I want both of you working on this though, give you a little bonding time.” Kopa and Kovu looked to each other and laughed a little.
“Our mates are already creching dad; I think were bonded pretty well.” Kopa chuckled.
“Well good, I’ll talk with Amri in more detail about his home. Information can go both ways here, if we know anything that we can turn on him, we should pursue it.” Simba decided.
“Answers you seek?” a voice called out, rising over the grass. Kopa, Kovu looked eagerly while Simba simply smiled.
“That’s right.” He replied happily. “What can you tell us Rafiki?” With a giggle he rose from the grass and bounded to their side. His smile was brief, as a solemn look grew over his face.
“There is darkness in the boy’s heart, hatred placed there by another. This Ezeamaka, is a puppet of someone much more cruel.” He explained.
“Ghavrah?” Kopa questioned eagerly.
“I believe so. T’was him that gave the order to those three, to butcher the game here and ravage the other predators.”
“Why though, and how do you know?” Kovu questioned.
“He was foolish enough to give his orders beneath my very nose. He takes a few of the males away, and sic’s them on us.”
“Does Ezeamaka know about this?” Simba asked.
“It’s possible, but he may not care. The boys anger for Amri, burns deep, the fire in his heart is fueled by this old warrior. Follow the trail he leaves, and you will find the answers you seek.”
“Kovu, Kopa, I’m counting on you. Find out who is leaking information to Ezeamaka and his pride. I think I will take to investigating Ghavrah more closely.” Simba decided.
“But dad?!” Kopa protested.
“I’ll be careful, don’t worry. Come on, let’s get back home before we’re missed.”



Nathari and Saeska walked in the open savannah of the High Reach Basin. The air filled with the scent of wet grass as the thin streams that poured from the upper reach fed the river below. He glanced to his right, seeing the huntresses starting their relay up the cliff and followed along. Saeska kept close behind as they worked their way up, passing through the thin tunnels that lead behind the waterfalls and back out into the open Cliffside. Reaching the top, they took in the view. Verdent grassland, overshadowed by the massive mountain range behind it. Saesksa gazed up slack jawed at the view as Nathari casually took the lead toward the Hall of Voyagers. The den sat within an enormous rock, seemingly a fragment from the mountain that had fallen. As he passed lion and lioness alike, he noticed he didn’t recognize a single face. He tried to place a name to any he could, but the ability eluded him completely.
“It has been a while.” He said softly. “Maybe most of my litter mates and friends have moved on.” The two walked inside the hollowed rock and immediately something was wrong. The spacious cave had its usual three grass laid beds intended for the princes, but the lions in the seats were total strangers. They took turns glancing at Nathari and Saeska, as one grew bold enough to dismount from the resting spot and approach.
“Who are you?!” The large bellowing lion declared.
“I.. I’m Prince Nathari of the Pride Lands. I’m here to speak with King Akinlana!” He answered just as proudly. The large lion laughed and looked to the other two who joined him in the joke. “What?!” Nathari demanded.
“You’re looking for King, who?” He asked. Nathari looked behind him, seeing the light from the entrance fade as the rock seemed to envelope it.
“I said.” He stammered, turning back to the lion, but he was not there to greet him. The room had completely emptied, as Nathari looked around in panic. “Saeska?!” He called out, hearing his voice reverberate around the room. “Saeska!!” He called louder.
“Nathari!” He heard a reply come from the back end of the den, the small tunnel that lead to Akinlana’s own resting room. Nathari darted in to see no one there; his breath grew short, his heart racing as he looked all about.
“Saeska where are you!?” He cried out, only to hear his own voice reply. As he clamored to the middle of the den he heard the ground shoot a sharp crack beneath him. “Wha?” he breathed, seeing the earth slowly snap beneath his feet. Backing away he tried to avoid any further breakage, but prove to be little help, the walls, ceiling and ground all seemed to cave away before him at once, the feel of the rocks slam his back shocked him, as he abruptly awoke tossing Saeska off of him.
“Ahh!” Saeska cried, waking as well as she hit the ground. “Nathari! What’s the big idea?!” He immediately rushed to her aid, breathing heavily from the nightmare.
“I’m sorry, I’m really sorry.” He quickly apologized pulling her back over to him. As she lay her head once more in his mane she gave her head a brief rub. “It was a nightmare.”
“Yeah I know, you used to get them all the time a few months back.” She answered quietly, trying to soften her tone.
“We made it there, and everything had changed. There were these weirdo’s in the throne room, and the floor and everything gave way.”
“Nathari, shh.” She hushed. “It’s ok. You’re probably nervous about going home; you haven’t been back for a long time right?”
“Yeah.” He nodded, giving her a quick kiss.
“It’ll be ok love, you just gotta relax. How much further is it from here anyway?” Nathari thought a moment, recalling where they were.
“Passed the jungle, into the western grasslands it leads to the valley. From there, it’s the… Left path, that’s it, leads to Sana Hills. That’s a straight shot to High Reach basin. Hmm… So, maybe about a day and a half, if we really push, we can cross the Sana hills early in the morning, come up with the Huntresses in time for breakfast.”
“Mmm.” She softly moaned, Nathari quickly realized she was falling asleep. Smiling he kissed her cheek one more time before settling his eyes. “I wonder how my brother is doing?” He whispered to himself, as sleep overtook him once more.

Amri paced himself, slowly walking from the entrance of the den. Simba followed fairly close behind, heading towards his habitual spot at the watering hole.
“Morning Amri.” He greeted warmly.
“Morning Simba, off for a drink as usual?”
“Yep.” He replied as he stretched. “I don’t know why, I’m always so thirsty in the morning.”
“You’re getting old.” Amri joked with a smile. Simba laughed a little and shook his head.
“Yeah well, if I need any advice on that topic I should look to a pro like you huh?” Amri laughed and nodded, watching him head off to his usual destination. Amri took to the rocks just south of Pride Rock. He casually gazed them over and smiled.
“Eh, Scar’s old haunt.” He smiled.
“He was a creature of habit.” A voice joined in, tucked in behind the rocks.
“Who, is there?” Amri immediately questioned, not recognizing the voice. The well built, but shorter lion appeared from behind the rock. He was clearly adult, and about the right height for his age, but paled in comparison to Amri’s own. His mane was long, gold at the very front and tinting black the length. His fur seemed well groomed with a light brown tone. His eyes were brown, the color of his fur tinting darker surrounding them. “Damn you, are you spying on me?” Amri demanded.
“Easy!” The lion hushed. “Observing for my own sake.”
“Quite likely I’m sure.”
“Amri? You are Prince Amri, right?” The male asked shyly. Amri sighed, raising his head high and nodded.
“I was a prince. Not anymore.” The lion shook his head with a smile.
“Wow, every bit as stubborn looking as dad. It’s no wonder the two of you are related.” He chuckled.
“What?” Amri inquired. The lion slowly made his way over and extended his paw.
“It’s good to meet you Uncle Amri. My names Endail, I’m Khiros’ son.”
“Khiros!” Amri exclaimed.
“That’s right.” Amri let out a hearty laugh and happily greeted him.
“I’ll be damned, look at you! My gosh I’m a little embarrassed you look so much like your father.”
“Well, this ain’t his, that’s for sure.” Endail laughed, brushing his mane.
“No, I suppose not.” Amri smiled.
“So we’re really after you. I don’t get it.” Endail sighed.
“Oh no.” Amri moaned. “You’re not here with.”
“My cousin?” Endail replied. “Yeah. Seeing as how I’m the only one who’s put up with all his crap lately.”
“Lately?” Amri questioned. Endail thought a moment and shook his head to Amri.
“You know uncle, I’d love to go into more detail, but the less I say considering the circumstance, the better.” He replied unhappy with his own response.
“Is there any reason to this boy?” Endail nodded.
“Yeah, there is. Even I have to admit, it was very cowardly of you to leave uncle. Least you gave him a proper burial when he died but, your brother’s death was not enough of a reason to abandon your home.”Amri sighed and gazed heavy heartily at the ground.
“There was more to it than that.” He breathed, as if trying to hide the statement from his nephew.
“More to it?” He wondered, trying to catch a glimpse at Amri’s face. “Come on, out with it.” He encouraged.
“It is nothing I can discuss with you, boy. I’m very sorry.” Amri sighed once more.
“Hmm, so am I then.” Endail agreed. “I have to go back, but just keep in mind; the next time we meet won’t be so cordial. I have a job to do, and I intend to do it.”
“I see.” Amri said softly. Endail turned and began walking on, back towards the south. Hanging his head, he spun around and faced Amri once more.
“My cousin, will do everything he can to hurt you. Keep that in mind uncle.”

Endail exited the southern border of the Pride Lands and began walking out into the open savannah. The grass had grown dry as the hard caked ground seemed to crumble beneath his feet. He kept his head low, thinking deeply on the talk he had with Amri. Wondering if this was truly the right thing to do, the question had begun to rise within him, seeing his own cousins hatred bloom over the recent years. He saw his pride, gathered in the usual location they had claimed. A single tree as the shade with a small pool of water nearby, while the grass was short, patchy and dry.
“You stupid fuck!” Ghavrah bellowed, fast approaching him. With a hard smash he knocked him to the ground. The blow left him seeing stars as Ghavrah lunged for his throat with his paw. “What the hell were you doing in the Pride Lands boy?!” Endail tried to respond, but the grip on his throat was too tight, the old lion smiled as he watched him struggle to breath. Before the breaking point could be reached, Ezeamaka clocked Ghavrah across the face, breaking the hold on his cousin. He seemed far less phased by the blow but he immediately met him eye to eye.
“Don’t you ever fucking touch my cousin again! You hear me?!” Ezeamaka shouted.
“That little wretch was off talking with your father boy. Perhaps if you did what I told you instead of killing our best weapons against the Pride Landers, you’d have Amri in your claws right now!” Ghavrah retorted.
“Get out of my fucking sight! Amri will be taken on my terms, Ghavrah, not yours! These are my warriors, my mission and my family. You’re here to advise, not undermine me! Now get the fuck out there and find some food! Make yourself useless and stay away from my cousin!” He fired right back. Ghavrah roared and shot around, fuming as he walked away. Ezeamaka spat on the ground and turned to his cousin, still lying on the ground. “Now what the fuck were you doing talking to my father?” he immediately questioned. Endail coughed for a moment to clear his throat.
“I wanted to meet my uncle Ezea, before you had your way with him.”
“Why?”
“Because he’s family.” Endail protested. Ezeamaka leaned down and glared.
“He isn’t family, he doesn’t deserve our family.” He said quietly.
“He’s a coward, cousin. Not a monster.”
“Then why don’t you go ride his dick then, stop wasting my fucking time.” Ezeamaka barked, turning away from him. Endail growled and leapt to his feet, taking Ezea to the ground he growled, staring him in the eyes. He sighed, shaking his head and snatched his cousin’s neck and pulled it close. He gave his forehead a brief kiss and dropped him back to the ground.
“I made my choice, cousin. I will stand by it to whatever end, just don’t do something you will regret.” Endail begged, departing from his body.
“Like what?” He asked, rolling onto his stomach. Endail paused and hung his head once more.
“Like trying to drive your own family away, and killing your father before you know him.” Endail replied. Ezeamaka shook his head and watched his cousin walk on. Rising to his feet, he shook out the dust in his fur and headed over to the tree where Theron was resting.
“Theron, do me a favor?” He asked.
“Certainly.” He replied happily.
“Get eyes on our contact, make sure they aren’t followed tonight.” He instructed.
“As you wish, my prince.” He sighed, not happy about having to be sent out already.
“Theron.” Ezeamaka called once more. “They’ll be food when you get back, trust me.”
“I’ve never doubted you yet, my prince.” Theron bowed, as he rushed off towards the Pride Lands.
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