Kazia.” Uttered Kovu, just as Simba was running out of ideas of what to say.

“Kazia?”

“Yes, she’s always been the moody one but this is different. She’s anti-social and just wants everyone to get out of her way. Vitani can handle her well, but…we’re worried.”

Simba nodded, glad to have something to talk about. “I think Kazia’s just getting onto that age. It must also be strange for new lions to come in the pride, so she probably needs lots of support, even if she won’t admit it. Just be there for her, and she’ll pass through this stage.”

“Thanks, Simba.” A smile allowed itself to spread across his face, but it soon faded away as Kovu frowned and looked as if he’d just remembered something. Almost coming to a halt, he opened his mouth then shut it again. Simba noticed this and turned back to face the lion that had seemingly wanted to ask a question, and had completely stopped now.

“Kovu? Did you want to ask me something?” He asked, concerned, yet hesitant.

After a short pause, Kovu replied abruptly and shook his head. “No. It doesn’t matter, I’m fine.” And with that, he took one last sigh and gaze across the savannah before carrying on towards Pride Rock. “Let’s go.”

That night, Simba stood at the tip of Pride Rock, questioning the kings in the stars.

Father, I’m lost, I need your advice again…I want to trust Kovu, but…I just feel that something long buried has resurfaced again in him. Could it be my fault? Have we been chasing each other in a wild circle of misunderstanding? How long will the darkness stay? Will it get worse?

Once again, Simba realised he was begging for answers, and cursed himself for being able to solve the quarrels between the animals in the kingdom, but not being able to solve his own problems.

“Simba? It’s getting late. Aren’t you going to come in?”

If any other lion had broken into his thoughts like that, Simba would have been startled, but Nala’s gentle voice never failed to break this rule. With a concerned look on her face, the queen known for her fair judgment and calmness padded up to Simba, and sat down beside him.

“Seeking council from the great kings again?”

“Yes, I’m afraid, and it’s because of almost the same reason…”

“Simba, why are you always full of doubts? It’s probably just stressful for Kovu to not be the only male besides you, or not the next king.”

“Yes, but…I can’t help just see a change in the way he looks at me…it’s quite…unnerving.

“Oh Simba, maybe he’s just upset about something, and the fact that he’s a former outlander just makes you imagine things. Be more open, and treat both Kopa and Kovu like your sons. You need to bring them together and make sure none of them feel left out. You’re just in a never-ending circle of misunderstood feelings in my opinion.”

“You’re right Nala, as always.” He smiled at this, but frowned again in thought after a few moments. “But I’ve been having some…strange dreams…”

“Dreams…?”

“Yes, I see two lions fighting, but though I couldn’t make them out, I’m pretty sure they were Kopa and Kovu. Then I see my grandchildren, cowering in the shadow of someone else. At first I think it’s Scar, then Zira, but it turns out to be a lioness I don’t know, or just can’t make out. Just when I think I’ve got it, she disappears and I wake up. I can still hear her evil laugh…”

“Simba…this is strange. Are you sure you don’t know who the lioness was?”

“No, I’ve tried and tried to see her clearly but I just can’t remember her…”

“The cubs and Kopa and Kovu fighting is quite worrying though Simba, you should tell Rafiki.”

“I can’t, he’s off to his homeland for a long time, but I guess we’ll have to keep everyone safe until he comes back, right?”

“Of course Simba, I know you will. Now get some sleep, and let me know if you have any more nightmares, ok sweetie?”

“Nalaaaaaa……..”

Final chapters coming soon. (If soon means over the rainbow.)