to everyone. Plus Hekima knew a lot about the old bad interrelationships between lions and hyenas, and he was not going to let this get through so easily.

Kufuzu was just about to approve to the co-leader, when the Shenzi and Banzai almost immediately answered for him: “We accept.” Then Shenzi added; “And we promise not to cause any trouble for you. If we are to break any rules, you have the legal authority to exile us from this land.”

Kufuzu then looked at Hekima, who lightly smiled in acceptance at the hyena’s words of wisdom and nobility. They both then turned to his pride again, who still had the Cage of Death formed around them. Only their leaders and hunting leaders were allowed to tell them if and when to break the Cage.

“You may all break the Cage of Death now.” Hekima said in his loud and strict commander’s voice, “Let us head back to the den. Our meal is still available to eat and there is plenty to go around. Oh, and Tanya;” He turned to their hunting leader, who looked at Hekima; ready to take his order; “please make sure that there is enough for our guests. If there isn’t, please find some more with your hunters. The hyenas may also be able to help you out if you need extra assistance.”

“Yes, sir.” Tanya immediately replied.

With that said, the 14 lions and the 28 hyenas walked together back towards the south-east of the reserve.

As they were walking, Kufuzu walked up to Mwezi and Hekima, who were walking side by side. They caught sight of him and looked at him to listen in to what he was saying, while still walking at the same time.

“Hey, you two.” He began, “Look, as soon as we get back to the den, I will explain everything about my history with them. I am sorry that I left it for a bit, but you will soon know.”

“Sure thing, baby.” Mwezi replied, smiling lovingly at her now mate. Hekima seemed surprised at Mwezi calling Kufuzu ‘baby’. He then suspected that they were now officially mates, and he just grinned at Kufuzu, who blushed in slight embarrassment when he caught sight of that. They all then continued on back towards the south-east and towards the den; where their feast was waiting to be finished.

…To be continued in Part III.

Scar, Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed © Walt Disney

Kufuzu, Tanya, Sashi, Allia, Fikira, Kamili, Mwezi, Hekima, and Nabila © BlackJack16.

© May 2010.