Ni and Kula- a love story

C1 Overcoming trauma

     Four days had passed since Ni and his daughter Aketch had arrived in the Pridelands. Their physical wounds were starting to heal through the care and skill of Rafiki. Simba and his pride had been able to do little other than watch over the pair as they slept. Seeing Ni in such a state had been heart breaking for Nala, Sarafina, Tama, Kula and Sarabi. The state of Aketch had effected all the lioness deeply and each night they had to listen to her whimpering and calls of pain.

      In the coolness of the evening the lions carried Ni and Aketch to pond that in a small glade of tress on the slopes near Pride Rock. With the greatest care both lions were laid in the shallowest parts of the water. Standing in the water Rafiki, Nala and Kula bathed the pair, Rafiki using plants that acted as a cross between soap and antiseptic to clean the wounds on their bodies. As the water did its work Ni looked up at Kula.

“Thank you,” Ni croaked through cracked lips.

“I am glad to help,” Kula replied softly, splashing water onto his mane.

    A cry from Aketch caused the pair to look over to where she lay in the water. Looking past her they could see Simba talking to a male wild dog called Pika, who was the leader of the   pack that lived in the Elephants Graveyard. Fear shone in Aketch’s eyes as she looked at the wild dog.

“Aketch you’re safe, he is not going to hurt you,” Ni said softly.

“Daddy,” Aketch whispered looking up at the adults.

“Aketch you don’t have to be scared, Pika is our good friend,” Nala said, gently licking her cheek.

      The look in Aketch’s eyes showed utter disbelief at Nala’s words as she had been taught to fear all other predators. To the relief of all Pika and Simba had overheard the exchange and decided to move their conversation elsewhere. A roar broke through the tension, coming towards them were Tama, Sarafina and Sarabi, all three dragging huge pieces of meat. Dropping the meet down on the grass the lioness beckoned to Ni and Aketch.

“Eat. Both of you need to regain your strength,” Sarafina ordered.

“Thank you,” Ni replied. “All the extra hunting must be tiring.”

“Do not even think such a thing, we want to help you both,” Sarafina replied firmly.

    Looking at his friends Ni allowed himself to relax and enjoy the late evening sun and the food. Seeing her father’s relaxed demeanour Aketch curled up next to him, soon drifting off into a peaceful sleep.

        Just over a week had passed since Ni and Aketch arrived. Their wounds were nearly healed though their emotional wounds were only just being discovered.  Through regularly meals they were beginning to lose their emaciated look. Laying on rocks under a star filled sky Ni spoke to his friends about the events of the recent past.

“My mate Katlego was an amazing lioness, we were so much in love, losing her has broken my heart. When our first daughter Majani was born two years ago it was one of the happiest days of my life. We were so happy the three of us. I tried so hard to provide for our family but the drought was sever, our home lost herds,” Ni said, pain evident in his voice.

“No one would every accuse you of not trying to provide. We all understand how difficult the hunting became,” Sarafina said kindly with a trace of bitterness.

“I promised to always protect her when we met. I was a rouge and she was part of a strong and happy pride. When she became pregnant with Aketch………..Majani suggested we leave then. I feared for Katlego. To take a risk of our cub being born in an unknown place. She found it hard. When Aketch was born in the height of the drought,” Ni said his voice breaking.

“Ni we understand,” Simba said, placing a paw on his shoulder. “You were in a very difficult position.”

“I should have done more. It was my fault,” Ni croaked, tears falling freely. “If I had just been stronger. We might have reached your jungle Simba, Katlego could have lived. I was too scared to make a change. Majani was right, I am nothing but a coward.”

“Ni that is not true!” Kula said ferociously. “You are a not a coward. Aketch is still alive despite everything that has happened.”

“Aketch has suffered so much in her short life. I’m worried about her, she will not talk about what happened. Well you’ve heard her call out at night. I want to help……”

“Let me talk to her,” Kula said a shard of pain in her eyes. “I lost my mother when I was young. I understand some of what she is going through.”

“I’m sorry Kula I didn’t know.”

“You don’t need to be sorry. It was a long time ago,” Kula said brushing the pain aside.

“I would be grateful for that Kula. I have tried myself.”

“Ni you are grieving yourself. You put the needs of Aketch before your own. You have kept her alive through difficult circumstances. No one here has anything other than praise and admiration for you. Let us help you,” Simba said supportively.

“I am in your dept. I do need help,” Ni whispered.

      A few days later Kula and Aketch were sat together on the grass in front of Pride Rock, nearby Ni and Simba stood talking to Pumba. With a nod to their friend the two male lions headed off into the savannah, Ni giving Aketch a reassuring smile as he past. Watching his friend leave Pumba saw the flicker of uncertainty in Aketch’s, his heart aching at the sight of her fear.

“Aketch seeing as your Dad is going out with Simba how about I stay with you and Kula?” Pumba said trotting over.

“You don’t have to, I don’t want to be a burden,” Aketch replied submissively.

“It’s not trouble at all. I’ve heard from Kopa that you like stories, how about I tell about my old home in the jungle?” Pumba said kindly.

“Kopa told me you lived there for a long time,” Aketch replied quietly.

“I sure did,” Pumba replied smiling.

          Sitting next to Aketch and Kula, Pumba told them about his past, how he had met Timon, their journeys together, their time with Simba, life in the jungle and Hakuna Matatah. As he spoke Pumba gently asked Aketch about her home, her favourite places and her friends. Totally at ease Aketch answered his questions, recalling fun times with her family despite the difficult circumstances. Seeing Pumba’s plan Kula gave a warthog a warm look of appreciation. Describing her older sister Majani, Aketch suddenly stopped, her eyes filling with pain and confusion she turned to Kula and Pumba.

“Did I do something to make Majani leave?” Aketch whispered, tears pouring from her eyes.

“No sweetie nothing you did made your sister leave,” Kula replied nuzzling her.

“But why did she leave me? Was I to demanding?”

“Aketch sometimes bad things happen to good lion,” Pumba began gently. “Majani loved you a lot. I think Majani would have liked to have taken you with her but she was too scared encase she couldn’t look after you. Had you been older when she left then I bet she’d have taken you.”

“Pumba is right Majani was only young, she must have thought you would be better staying with your father.”

“So I didn’t do anything wrong it’s not my fault?” asked Aketch disbelief in her voice. 

“None at all,” Pumba replied smiling with sincerity.

“Then why did she argue with Daddy a lot?”

“Lioness at her age all argue with their parents to test the boundaries, you’ll argue with your father when you get to her age, arguing is all part of growing up,” Kula replied with a wink.

“Pumba would you and Kula tell me more about the Pridelands?”

“Of course,” Kula replied.

        Arriving home a while later Ni found the trio laid on a rock, Aketch totally engrossed in a story Pumba was telling her about one of Simba’s escapades in the jungle. Seeing her father Aketch ran over. Listening to her stories Ni smiled, his heart jumping with joy.

“Kula, Pumba thank you for taking care of Aketch today. I’m glad you could help her,” Ni said as he passed, a look of gratitude on his face.

“It was our pleasure Ni,” Pumba replied.

“Aketch is a sweet cub,” Kula replied smiling at Ni.

   The days passed, day by day Ni and Aketch healed yet both still awoke at night with terrible nightmares. Slowly Aketch’s nightmares began to get less and less yet with Ni they increased as he relived the horrors of recent months. As the days passed Aketch began to bond with Kula and the stability that came with living in the pride was clearly having a good impact on the young cub. Aketch became good friends with Kopa and began to act like a cub for the first time in her life.

      Standing under a tree in sight of Pride Rock, Ni watched Aketch play Kopa, Suka who was Timon’s son, Akil son of Zazu and Dumisa a wild dog who was Pika’s son. Meeting Dumisa had allowed Aketch to overcome her fear of other predators. As Ni watched Kula came to stand next to him. For a while they just watched youngsters play, laughing at Aketch’s attempts to catch Akil as he swooped down over her head. A sad look came into Ni’s eyes yet he was smiling.

“Ni are you alright?” Kula asked with concern.

“I miss her mother Kula. I failed. If I had agreed with Majani’s suggestion that we leave as soon as Kula had become pregnant.”

“Ni you are not to blame for what happened. If you had left then Katlego could just as easily have died and if Aketch had been in the open she could also have died.”

“At times in the night I wake up screaming from horrible nightmares,” Ni choked in reply. “It was my fault she died.”

“No Ni it wasn’t,” Kula replied, gently laying a paw on his back in comfort. “Katlego died but you did not fail her. You kept your daughter alive through circumstances where many other cubs would have perished. Your love for Katlego gave you the strength to beat all the odds and survive. I am sure that wherever Katlego is she is very proud of you.”

    Looking at Kula a small smile crossed Ni’s face. Her words held the ring of truth, her paw on his body felt comforting as did her presence. The young cub he had once met had grown into a very kind and caring lioness. A sudden roar brought the two adults firmly back to the savannah with a jolt. Looking up into the foliage cover at the cubs they saw Kopa and Aketch looking down at them from a high branch a mischievous grin on both their faces. Ni’s heart missed a beat at the high his daughter had climbed too while Kula felt her heart flip at the distance to the ground.

“Alright whose bright idea was this?” Ni asked raising his eyebrows.

“Mine Daddy,” Aketch replied brazenly.

“You both nearly gave Kula and I heart failure. It appears you’re nearly healed.”

“Daddy I am fully healed,” Aketch replied smiling.

“Ni I think we are going to have our paws full,” Kula laughed.

“I think you might be right Kula,” Ni chuckled shaking his head.

     Watching the cubs Ni felt utterly at peace with the world. The healing was complete, at least that of Aketch and most of the physical healing of himself. To heal a heart takes time. Now it was time for Ni and Aketch to learn to truly live once more.

 Learning to live again

     Little over a month had passed since Ni and Aketch had arrived in the Pridelands. Their wounds had healed and both were starting to really integrate into the pride.

       Under the sun Simba, Nala and Ni walked through the savannah. As they walked they discussed the events of recent weeks, how Aketch was faring, Ni’s hunting success the previous night and how the pride could further help them both.

“Ni the entire pride would love it if you and Aketch stayed with us permanently,” Nala said.

“Stay……….I hadn’t even considered the future……….”Ni replied, surprised by the queen’s offer.

“It would be a pleasure to have another lion. I’m only a young lion, a little too young for a king in some ways. Your advice and experience would help me a lot,” Simba said, expressing his respect for the older lion.

“This land is beautiful, Aketch has settled well and has plenty of friends. If I just knew where Majani was than perhaps I could find lasting peace,” Ni mused.

“Ni nothing will ever chance the love you feel for Majani. She chose a life she though best, nothing you said could have changed her path,” Nala replied gently.

“At times I considered trying to find her…….I almost went with her. She left with a small pride lead by a male going by the name of Wanderer. He was only three years old but he had a darkness about him. I fear what might have happened to her, he wasn’t a lion to trust your daughter too.”

“Don’t go down that path Ni of thinking what ifs they only lead to pain. Trust me I did that for a long time after my Father died,” Simba said, pain visible in his eyes. 

“You’re right Simba, I know any dreams of finding Majani are foolish. I just pray we meet again one day.”

      Standing on a hill the trio looked across the vast expanse of the kingdom, from Pride Rock down to the river, over to the Outlands and the Elephants Graveyard and the mountains far in the distance. The warm breeze gently blew their fur this way and that. High above the hustle and bustle the three lions felt utterly at peace with the world. Turning around Ni looked at the kingdom around him. His heart filled with joy as memories stirred of his past visit. The land was filled with so much wealth and beauty, a place that some called paradise. 

“I would be honoured to join,” Ni said facing his friends.

“We are honoured to have you. Tonight you and Aketch will undergo a formal ceremony of adoption into the pride. Ni if you are willing I would like you to join by council of advisors. My father said to find those who will give good advice, never abuse their position and who will always be honest, even if what they say goes against what you want to hear.”

“I am honoured you think so highly of me Simba, it would be an honor.”

    Under the light of the evening sun Rafiki conducted the ceremony of adoption. The lioness assembled in two neat rows, Ni and Aketch walked down between them while birds sprinkled petals over them. Reaching the end of the row Ni and Akerch bowed to Simba who placed a paw on their shoulders. The ceremony complete Simba let out a might roar that was taken up by the other lioness. All across the savannah their cry was heard. Ni and Aketch had a new home.

__________________________________________________________________________

       At dawn the following morning Simba and his council assembled at the very top of Pride Rock. The council was made up of Nala (who shared power equally with Simba) Sarabi, Sarafina, Zazu, Timon and Pumba. At times Pika, leader of the wild dogs joined in as did the leaders of various herds. The custom of a council dated back several generations which in theory acted as a barrier against tyranny. At first Scar and ruled with Mufasa’s council with a couple of hyena additions though later he had and Zira had later disbanded it. Sitting together the council began to debate the issues of the day, each member making an effort to bring Ni up to speed with the events.

     While the council was in session Aketch, Sudi, Akil and Kopa played around Pride Rock under the watchful eyes of Timon’s mate Tabia and Zazu’s mate Mert. The youngsters were full of energy, darting through the rocks they were giving their guardians the run around. In an adventure of their own imagination the cubs played in a world of magic. Caught up in their game the cubs failed to watch where they were going, causing them to quite literally run into members of the council as they descended from on high. Landing in a heap of paws and tails the two groups looked at each other. Simba, Timon and Ni laughed as all climbed to their paw, Mert and Tabia shaking their heads in exasperation.

“Oh my back, I am getting to old for this,” Sarabi replied standing up slowly.

“Sorry Grandma,” Kopa replied grinning.

“Little more care next time,” Simba said placing his son back onto his paws. “I am going out on patrol with Ni, try not to cause too much mischief while I’m gone.”

“Ok, Dad have a good day,” Kopa replied nuzzling his father.

“Aketch be safe. I will be home tonight,” Ni said hugging his daughter.

“I’ll be good Daddy.”

“Ni we will take good care of her, you don’t have to worry,” Nala said calmly.

          Waving their tale Ni, Simba, Timon and Zazu headed off into the savannah leaving their children under the watchful eyes of their mates. With a nod to Nala, Tabia headed off home with Sudi to re-join her and Timon’s other kits. At the same time Mert and Akil flew off leaving the lions alone. For a while Aketch and Kopa were happy to play around Pride Rock exploring the small caves and playing hide and seek with Sarabi and Sarafina. Coming out of a cave Kopa saw Tama, Kula and Nala said on some rocks half asleep. Crouching low to the ground he silently crept up on them. When he was just inches away he let out the loudest roar he could manage. The effect was priceless, the lioness nearly jumped out of their fur in fright while Aketch stood giggling on a rock behind them,

“Kopa you little terror, never do that again!” Tama stammered gasping for breath.

“I had to. You told Aketch yesterday that no creature could ever catch you off guard.”

“Yeh Tama so Kopa had to try,” Aketch replied bounding over.

“You did set them a challenge Tama, maybe think about what you in the future,” Kula replied slyly.

             Groaning Tama rolled onto her back shooting a steely glare at the cubs that clearly showed she was not happy. Seeing the look Nala and Kula struggled to suppress giggles as they remembered the escapades the three of them had gotten into as cubs.

“Mum can we go down to the waterhole? Aketch has been here over a month but she’s hardly been away from Pride Rock?” Kopa asked eagerly.

“I don’t see why not, would you like to go Aketch?” Nala asked, rolling over to face Aketch.

“I’d love to… if you and Kula will be going with us,” Aketch replied, a faint note of fear in her voice.

“We certainly will as neither of you are old enough to go that far alone,” Kula replied stretching.

“Take them the long way it might just tire them out,” Tama said irritably.

“Awe Tama you’re just mad Kopa managed to sneak up on you,” Kula laughed.

         With a spring in their step Aketch, Kula, Kopa and Nala headed out into the vast plains. Soon they were running across the grass, racing through the vast herds with many of the youngsters joining in their game. Free from worry they were happy just to have fun. Passing through a herd of elephants Kopa and Aketch found themselves suddenly lifted into the air by a large male. Both roared half in shock half in delight as the male placed them on his back. On the ground Nala and Kula looked up at the pair, shaking their heads as the male set off at a brisk walk through the herds. From their perch the cubs could see the true vastness of their home from the tiniest insects to the tallest giraffes. Standing up Aketch realized just how beautiful the kingdom was. Coming to a patch of trees the male carefully placed them back on the ground. As Nala and Kula arrived on the scene the male walked away to re-join his herd.   

        Leaving the tress adults and cubs raced each other across the plain. Coming to a small hill they fell over the roots of a tree. Tumbling down the slope in a cloud of dirt they landed in a bed of flowers. The word seemed to spin, clouds taking on strange shapes while the colours seemed to merge. Laying there the lions watched the clouds go past as the word slowly regained its focus. In the distance they could hear the sound of other animals along with the splashing of water. Filled with excitements the cubs scrambled to their paws.  In front of them was the waterhole, elephants, gazelles along with other animals stood drinking while birds and monkeys chattered in the trees.

“Wow look at this place,” Aketch said with awe.

“Isn’t it cool? We can have so much fun jumping in from the rocks,” Kopa said.

“I’ve never been swimming before.”

“You can’t swim? My Dad taught me ages ago, well I can give you lesson,” Kopa replied grinning.

“The only thing you will be doing staying in the shallows. I am not willing to risk Ni getting angry if Aketch hurts herself swimming,” Nala said appearing behind them with Kula.

“But Mum you can swim you an Aunt Kula could teach Aketch,” Kopa replied putting on a cute smile.

“Please Nala please teach me swimming, Daddy wouldn’t mind if I said I wanted to learn,” Aketch replied hopefully.

“I’ll teach you if you promise to do exactly as I say,” Nala said firmly.

      With shouts of delight both cubs ran into the water with the adults in tow. Aketch proved to be a natural swimmer much to the delight of Kopa and Nala. In the afternoon sun the lions swam together all getting through soaked. With the aide of friendly elephants Kopa and Aketch ambushed the two adults as the elephants blasted water at them with their long trunks. There certainly seemed to be a sense of fun in the water as the lion cubs played happily with the young and not so young of other species. Kula receiving a fright when Aketch walked over with a python causally draped over her like a scarf.

    As the sun on the horizon the lions walked home carrying the sleepy cubs carried on their backs. Arriving home they found Simba and Ni waiting for them at the cave entrance. With a soft goodnight the cubs told their fathers all about their day, both smiling while Ni rolled his eyes about the swimming. Nuzzling his daughter Ni left the cave. Outside he found Kula and Tama speaking softly together, pain shining in the latter’s eyes. As he approached Tama put her head to one side before walking away into the night.

“Is something wrong with Tama?” Ni asked, watching the lioness head off into the distance.

“She misses our male friends who Scar forced out when we were young adults. Tama was in love with one of them. At the time we told her to go with them. We knew how she felt. Tama was just too scared to defy Scar by leaving.”

“Scar ruined so much during his time as king. Aketch told me you had a fun day, thank you for taking care of her today.”

“It was a pleasure I enjoyed spending the day with her. Helping her helps me to heal in a way as much as it helps her.”

“I can’t thank you enough. Having a lioness she can connect to, to act as a mother like figure, it helps her to heal.”

“I’m glad I can help. How about you Ni, how are you?”

“I’m getting there. The guilt I felt is easing I can start to feel hope for a better future.”

    Smiling Kula placed a paw on his shoulder both blushing at the gesture. For a second both looked at one another with a look akin to love. Embarrassed by the gesture Kula hastily changed the subject, asking Ni about his adventure after he left the Pridelands. Casting his mind back Ni broke into a grin as he began to recount his adventures including several funny stories.

       Healing of a broken Heart

   Time has passed, seasons had moved on as had the lives of the pride. Ni and Aketch had become firmly part of the pride, Ni had proved himself a skilled fighter during skirmishes with the Outsiders. In a fight with a group led by Zira along the border, Ni gave Zira a beating she would not forget in a hurry. Aketch was growing increasingly close to Kula, looking to her as a mother figure. There was a growing closeness between Ni and Kula that was clear to Sarafina, Nala, Tama and Sarabi yet neither of the lions in question would acknowledge the fact.

     Out in the grassland the lioness were out resting after a meal, having done all the work the females were resting while males took care of the cubs. Laying under in the shade of some bushes well out of the male’s earshot Sarabi, Tama, Nala and Kula chatted. As they spoke Sarafina gently questioned Kula about her friendship with Ni. Blushing slightly the younger lioness tried to make light of things by saying she was only helping a friend in need. Raising an eyebrow Sarafina looked at the young lioness with something akin to amusement.

“Kula you must think I was born yesterday. I have seen the way you look at Ni, let me assure you I can tell when a lioness likes a lion. Simply friend’s hhmm? Try again this time with the truth.”

“No offence Sarafina but I think your eyesight might be going. I do not like Ni in that way,” Kula stammered.

“Mistaken am I? I beg to differ the way you have just answered by questions proves my theory.”

“Please Sarafina you have it all wrong,” Kula said desperately.

“Oh I think not. What I might have incorrect is how open you are with yourself about your feelings. From your behaviour I think you love Ni yet are not willing to acknowledge how you feel. I would even suggest you love Ni and Aketch yet are either unwilling to admit it or are actively trying to deny them.”

     Looking at her friends Kula stopped in her tracks, her eyes filling with something close to pain she turned away. Taking a deep breath she tuned back to them with sadness in her eyes while tears ran softly down her cheeks.

“I do care of Aketch and Ni. I love Ni. I never meant for it to happen. I just wanted to help them both recover. The more time I spent with them…One day I just realized my feelings for him had changed. I’ve tried to hide it…I could never tell him.”

“Kula of course you could,” Tama began.

“Ni is still grieving and in love with his former mate, how could I ever dream that he could possibly love me? I have not right to place that pressure on him. If I truly love him than staying silent is the right thing to do,” Kula replied sadly.

“Even at the expense of your own happiness?” Tama asked while the other lioness looked on.

“Even if it means I am unhappy for a while. If we can only be friends that is enough for me.”

“You would forsake your own happiness of his. That is a sign of true unconditional love. To love another so much you will hurt yourself for their happiness, few are able to do that,” said Sarafina.

              Gazing around at her friends Kula felt that the world was about to close in on her. Overwhelmed by emotion she took to paws just as the first claps of thunder issued, the rain following seconds later. Walking through the downpour Kula’s fur soon became covered in mud. The rain obscured the tears that ran freely from her eyes, her heart aching with longing Kula wondered aimlessly. Insert song here.

    Unknown to her Ni was stood on a hill watching her. The older lion was struggling with his own set of emotions. A year had passed since the death of his mate while he loved her still his feelings had begun to chance. Rising his head he looked up in her direction, a slight smile crossing his face as he watched her.

“How did this all happen, when was it I fell in love with Kula? It’s only a year since Katlego died. Kula has been there for me from the start. I really am in love with her. I never planned on falling in love again yet I can’t help my feelings. I should…..I don’t have the right to feel this way. I am still in love with Katlego yet I love Kula at the same time. Ni forget about it, while you still love Katlego you cannot tell Kula how you feel. Kula deserves better than a broken lion who is already a father.”

       The days passed with Kula and Ni existing around yet their friends began to notice a change in their behaviour. When they believed others were not looking they would look at the other. Ni seemed to take on an air of sadness despite hiding his emotions from Aketch. Kula became increasingly withdrawn often volunteering for border patrol along the furthest edge of the kingdom. When Ni left to go on patrol a look of longing would appear in her eyes. The separation was causing both pain yet neither was willing to tell the other their feelings. Their friends became increasingly worried.

      Out on border patrol Ni and Simba walked through the sun baked savannah. Having just seen off a trio of young males the pair were tired. Arriving at a pool both stopped to drink and bath the cuts the rouges claws had inflicted. Looking around them Ni began to speak tentatively.

“Simba have you ever been in love with two lionesses at the same time?”

“No,” Simba replied, surprised at the question from the blue. “I have loved someone I wasn’t supposed to though.”

“You? I find it difficult to imagine anyone who would be unsuitable for a future king,” Ni replied raising in eyebrow.

“When I was a teenager in the jungle…….I fell in love with a leopard. Ni have you fallen in love with a member of the pride?” Simba asked tentatively.

“I have Simba. The fact has been gnawing at me for days. I feel guilty for falling in love again as part of me still loves Katlego,” Ni replied a mixture of shame and sadness swirling about him.

“Ni you shouldn’t feel guilty for falling in love. Part of you will always love Katlego but no one would expect you to be alone for ever.”

“I hear what you are saying Simba yet the guilt is hard to deny, it is a little over a year since she passed. Yet the lioness I love…….”

“I’m not going to ask who it is. I don’t want to complicate the situation further. You have my full support to ask her to be your mate. If you speak to her and feels the same, well don’t live alone.”

“Thank you Simba knowing that means a great deal. You see the world without the guilt I carry in my heart,” Ni replied falling silent.

    Looking over at his friends Simba began to speak then stopped his words dying on his lips at his friends despair. Silently the pair walked home with the weight of Ni’s confession hanging over them like a dark cloud.

        A couple of days had passed since Ni had confessed his concerns to Simba. As the first hint of dawn crept into the Pridelands Ni and Kula patrolled the border between the Pridelands and the Outlands. After a long night that had featured appearances of Zira and others on the opposite side, both lions were glad to see two Pridelanders walking towards them. After the paw over and briefing Ni and Kula left the border, beginning the walk home as it was just getting light. Arriving at rock insight of the border known as Border Rock, Kula and Ni stopped to drink. Standing on the rock Kula looked over at Ni who was stood below her in the pool, looking up at her with a curious expression.

“Ni I am in love with you.”

“You love me?” Ni asked in disbelief.

 “Yes.”

“I never imagined………..Kula over the past few months…………….I’ve fallen for you.”

“You love me, Ni this is fantastic,” Kula began, stopping as she saw the agony on his face.

“Loving you is wrong Kula. You are half my age to begin with.”

“Age doesn’t matter!”

“Maybe not but I am a broken lion. As strong as my feelings are for you part of me will never stop loving Katlego.”

“I understand Ni it is only natural you will feel that way. I am not trying to take her place. I want to make you happy.”

“Kula you deserve better than a lion like me. You should have a lion who will love you with his entire heart. I cannot give you…………” Ni said sadly.

“I don’t want another lion. I want you………”

“Oh Kula you are so young. Right now you think you want me without fully understanding the difficulties that will arise in the future. I love you Kula but you deserve more than a broken lion with a cub. I love so I have to give you up,” Ni replied.

     His eyes filled with tears Ni ran off into the morning light leaving Kula alone and heartbroken. Out alone in the savannah their hearts shattered into a million pieces as both fell into their own grief. Walking through the kingdom guilt racked Ni’s body. As he walked he saw couples together enjoying the others company. Watching them he felt a spike of pain and guilt at what he had done to Kula. Watching the couples his thoughts drifted back to his time spend with Katlego. Slowly his thoughts shifted to Majani.

“Majani where are you? I am so sorry for shouting at you I was just trying to protect you. I blame myself for what happened to us. If I hurt you I am sorry. Not a day passes without me thinking about you. I love you and I miss you. You were right all along Aketch and I should have left earlier. We tried to find you we tried so hard but we were unable to. I wish there was some why you could hear what I am saying. I pray one day we will be reunited,” Ni said speaking to the sky.

    That night as Ni slept his dreams were haunted by the horrors of the draught, his arguments with Majani and the last terrible blazing row the night she left. Then the dream changed and Ni found himself in a savannah. However it was unlike any place he been. The sky was the colour of sunset, the grass was a shade of pink, trees were a mixture of blue, red and green leaves while the trunks were pure white and a lake of lavender coloured water glistened in sunlight. His heart did a flip as coming towards him was Katlego her body glistening with health. In the midst of a circle of flowers the pair nuzzled each other while tears fell freely from their eyes.

“Katleog I am sorry for failing you,” Ni wept.

“You are not to blame. You did all you could to help us. Ni stop blaming yourself for an event outside your control,” Katlego replied licking the tears away.

“I miss you every day. I love you so much.”

“I love you Ni. I will always live inside your hearts.”

“My heart will always love you…..” Ni began, looking away in shame.

“It also beats for Kula.”

“I am sorry.”

“Do not be sorry for finding love. What we had was special but my time has passed. I want you to experience love again.”

“How can you?” Ni asked in disbelief.

“Out of love. All I wish is for you to be happy. Kula is a wonderful lioness who loves you as you love her. I give both my blessing.”

“Thank you Katlego. Nothing will ever stop me loving you,” Ni replied weeping.

“I know that. I will always watch over you and our daughters. What happened with Majani was not your doing, she had a wider role to play in the fate of the Pridelands.”

“She is alive! What happened to her, what part did she play?”

“I cannot say. In time you will know the truth. She is alive and happy in a pride who live by the sea,” Katlego replied as the sky began to change colour. “Dawn is not far off, we don’t have much time left.”

 “Katlego nothing will ever make me forget you. You will ways hold a place in my heart.”

“Be happy Ni, be happy and make a new family. One day you will see Majani again. I love Ni be happy,” Katlego replied as she slowly faded away.

“I love you Katlego. I will be happy,” Ni roared.

       With a sudden jolt Ni’s eyes snapped open and he found himself in the cave at Pride Rock. Gasping for breath he lay there as the pale light of dawn crept into the cave. Memories of his dream swirled around his mind. Rolling onto his side Ni felt a lightness in his heart and a realization of his course in life. Looking around the cave he was many of the lioness were missing, including Kula. Before he could move Simba appeared above him.

“Come on sleepy head our hunting party has made a couple of good kills.”

___________________________________________________________________________   

                    A short time later the entire pride lay contently under the shade of tress feeling content and at peace with the world after a very nice breakfast. Looking over the scene Ni felt his heart do a backflip. Walking through the foliage was Kula. Getting up Ni slowly began to make his away over to her. Suddenly Kula stumbled, her left paw vanishing down a small hole.

“Aaahhhhh!”

      Kula’s scream of agony ripped through the air. Ni had a brief glimpse of a snake’s teeth retracting from her paw. Gasping for breath Kula fell to the floor as the venom coursed through her veins. Fear surged through Ni’s heart as Sarafina and Sarabi called for calm as the pride realised what happened.

“Tama go to Rafiki. Tell him to meet us back home,” Sarabi said running over.

“Yes Sarabi,” Tama replied taking to her paws.

“Ni help Simba carry Kula home,” Sarabi yelled as Simba bounded over.

“Nala please keep Aketch away from this,” Ni said as he ran passed.

                  Slowly Simba and Ni carried Kula back to Pride Rock while other pride members walked besides them. At the back of the procession Nala and Sarafina spoke calmly to Kopa and Aketch in an attempt to reassure them. Glancing back Ni smiled at his daughter, his calm exterior hiding the turmoil and fear he felt inside.

    Arriving home they found Rafiki waiting for them. Swiftly the wise baboon set to work using all his skill to draw out the poison. Grinding up powders his mixed some into a shell of water. Gently his pored the concoction down Kula’s throat in small enough amounts so she could drink it. As the concoction took affect Kula fell into a deep sleep.

“I was able to administer the antidote in time to hopefully save her life. I must warn you all she could still die. Weill be know my dawn tomorrow either way.”

“Thank you Rafiki we will watch over her,” Sarabi said escorting the baboon out.

       As the news spread the pride fell into turmoil if emotions as each member cared for Kula in their own way. Throughout the day Tama and Nala stayed by their friend’s side, talking to her and telling stories as Kula’s body fought the poison. The agony they felt was written on their faces. The thought of losing their friend was almost unbearable. All the pride could do was watch and weight. Throughout the day the pride were distracted by the news. In the later afternoon Kopa and Aketch appeared in cave baring a gift of flowers. Serious as the situation was the adults managed to smile at the cubs, touched by their thoughtfulness.

    By the time night had fallen Kula had improved enough to be able to take some water and allow the pride to have a realistic hope she would survive. To Tama and Nala surprise Ni offered to stay with Kula through the night. Lying next to her Ni looked down at his friend, watching her chest rise and fall as she lay in a state of semi-consciousness.

“I’m not sure if you are aware I’m here. I want to know how much I love you. Kula I was lost until I met you. You helped bring me back from the edge. Your selfless heart took care of Aketch without desire of reward or need for recognition. I was such a fool to try to push you away, I hope you can forgive an old fool. Please get better for me, I want to spend the rest of my life with you,” Ni whispered kissing her cheek softly.

“I want to spend my life with you too Ni,” Kula whispered open her eyes slowly.

        Looking at her Ni felt his heart almost explode with happiness. Ni’s pure words of love had drawn Kula back from the edge. Love was the strongest force of all, it could defy death and break through comas. Ni and Kula gazed lovingly at each other as the sun broke over the horizon bathing them in a haze of pure pink light.    

      Epilogue

     “Dad get up.”

       Opening an eye Ni saw his son Nassor pulling at Ni’s tail in a bid to wake up his father. A couple of months old Nassor was full of energy. In looks he was a perfect mix of both Ni and Kula with Kula’s adventurous spirit. Yawning Ni looked over to where Kula lay half-awake next to him, a soft smile playing across her face as she watched her son. Sitting up, Ni saw Aketch standing in the branches of the tree which he was resting under, a mischievous grin on her face.

“I thought you were going to watch him until sunset Aketch,” Ni said raising an eyebrow.

“Well if you’ll look at the sky you’ll see that isn’t far off,” Aketch replied cheekily.

“Hhmm that is debatable,” Ni replied looking at his daughter.

“Ni relax we have had a few nice hours sleep,” Kula yawned as Nassor pounced on her.

      Laughing at her son Kula dodge the pounce causing to cub to land down in a clump of grass. As the light began to fade the family slowly made their way through the savannah. As he watched his son and daughter racing ahead Ni felt a sense of utter joy. Seeing the look on his face Kula gently licked his cheek.

“Are you happy Ni?”

“I have never been happier Kula,” Ni replied kissing her.

      End