Twisted pt 8

“Mother… were you really going to kill Redasa? I mean, it was only a fight. I have to learn how to hold my own, don’t I?” She looked at him in surprise. “Takari, I would never kill a cub. I did that… in anger and disappointment. Atsu was my best friend when I was your age. We fought for you father, even. To know her cub would harm you is something I don’t understand. And play fights usually don’t involve somebody getting hurt. As for holding your own, you are going to be a king- your word will be command, with no one to question your authority. With your rank, my sweet little baby boy, you don’t need to worry about keeping your place.” She paused, considering something. “Unless you feel you need to hold your own. Do you feel that way, honey?”
Taka was silent, seeming deep in thought. “Yeah, I do. I am weaker than everyone here! Even Kipenzi is stronger than I am and she’s only two months old! And how can I make my way in the world, make a mark, and please the great kings if you and the pride fight my battles for me?” His voice has grown until he was shouting at the top of his lungs. Before she could say anything- before she could even close her jaw, he ran into the den.