have chosen the correct path. Simba took you in when you would most likely be starving otherwise. Don’t forget that.”

Reclining his head curtly, he started off up the side of the large rock edifice, toward the main den. With an almost silent sigh of relief, Ezra followed, thinking favorably of the notion of sleep but also thinking of the resolution made by Mwasi and the contingent decree Ezra herself had made.

It would not be easy. But if Aiheu smiled upon their cause, perhaps they would succeed. Maybe they would be able to finish what Zira had started before her untimely end.

The rest of the lionesses would be alerted in the morning. And then, perhaps, she would begin to work on Vitani.

Ezra only hoped that Mwasi’s plan, whatever it was, would preoccupy Kovu.

END CHAPTER ONE