07 – Bloody tracks

Hell began just at morning – they awoke him terribly early.

At least, Tanabi thought that was hell. His dreams were ceased by anxious voices of lionesses and at first he just covered his ears with paws to sleep longer, but shortly after, he decided to opened his eyes.

Tanabi was... well, doesn’t matter, how much we like him, we must face the truth – he was lazy. Or, better to say, he liked to sleep long. Opposite to Kiara, who used to be busy until dawn, prince usually overslept departure of hunting team and got up when sun was high on the sky. Of course, Simba said once, his son was making up lost time by being twice time more unbearable during day, but at least he allowed his father to rest at morning. So that day father and son opened their eyes at the same time and were confronted with the same problem.

“Sir!” reported Sorphi with breaking voice. “Our meat is gone.”

Tanabi raised his head to see lioness before royal bed. King and queen had just awoken, staring on subject with surprised stare.

“Well...” muttered Simba. “Maybe I ate a little about midnight, but surely I left about quarter.”

“Simba?” asked Nala with sleepy voice. “You ate at night again! Do you know, how it’s unhealthy?! You are not youngster, who...”

“Hush!” gasped king. “They’re all hearing.”

Timon and Pumbaa were there too, probably alarmed about all thing long before. Timon heard words of queen and caught up her mind.

“What I hear, mon Capitan!” she exclaimed with terrified voice. “Unhealthy? Late eating is deadly! Even for us, Insectivores! And what about you? So big predator!” she jumped off Pumbaa’s back and ran to Simba. “Don’t you understand? Diabetes!“

„Awful!“ added Pumbaa. “Painful injections!”

Timon climbed by Simba’s mane and stood on friend’s back. He whispered him to ear, but loud enough for Nala, Sorphi and Tanabi to hear.

“We are in Africa! Do you know, how difficult to store insulin in this climate?!”

“Timon! Stop it” gasped king. “Not in front of subjects!”

Merkaat narrowed his eyes and replied with regret.

“Ow... sorry! But they all had know about theirs monarch health...”

“I’m not sick!” exclaimed Simba. “I just felt hungry last evening. Is this so strange?” finished, shouting. He noticed amazed faces of lioness and felt in silence, ashamed.

“Yes... of course!” agreed Timon.

“But you gotta lose some pounds.” Whispered Pumbaa.

“Yeah!” added Timon. “He could help ya!”

Simba didn’t respond and just stood with monarch’s dignity. He started to cave’s entrance, followed by Sorphi and lionesses stares. He went on ledge and looked on bloody spot on the rock. Yes, definitely there once was wildebeest carcass.

Nala and Tanabi stood right after and followed king. Prince noticed, that all hunting pack was sitting before entrance, waiting for king’s explanations. Pride was uneasy, rumours already had started. Of course, not about gluttonous monarch, but about nightly visit of some mysterious enemy. Elder lionesses, queen-mother and Sakia were looking on king without fear of younger ones, but with heavy curiosity. Simba sighed and said.

“Listen to me... I don’t know, what has happened, but we soon find it out. Sorry for that, but I must ask you, just in case. If anyone of you took meat from the ledge? Be honest, this is no crime to be hungry from time to time.” Timon and Pumbaa, standing nearby, narrowed theirs eyes and murmured significantly. “Well... I eat from pride’s resources, between meals... sometime.” But no one answered to that. Tanabi went to father and he whispered. “Tanabi... Did you? Just tell us.”

“No.” replied prince. “Dad, I strongly suggest, to examine this place and routes, where meat could be taken away. If you dismiss lioness from ledge and path downhill, I’ll do it.”

“Sir Tanabi is right.” Added Zazu, who just had flown from morning patrol. “It’s good to know what really happened, from own investigation. You know, you majesty... king should know everything.”

Simba looked on son, then looked on majordomo and turned to lioness.

“All right, if that was one from us, there must be some other explanation. Please, go back to your duties. Let hunting team starts hunt. We will check this case and tell you at dinner.”

“If it not disappear too” replied Timon, but heavy stare of Pumbaa made him stop.

King turned to his mate.

“Could you lead hunting team today? They are very uneasy, so you might...”

“Yes, I know.” Smiled Nala. “Boys must do their job. I’ll leave you with this <mystery>.” She said with sarcastic voice and went down to lionesses. “Right, ladies. Let go to work.” They departed.

“Well...” muttered Simba. “Boy’s job? We’ve got Kiara here so...”

Tanabi interrupted with surprise.

“Here? I haven’t seen her in cave. I thought, she went somewhere with grandma Sarafina...”

Simba ran into cave.

“Kiara!” he called. But there was no one inside... except Sarafina, still sleeping next to wall. “Kiara... Ow, sorry!” said king, when he noticed, that he had awoken old lioness. “But Kiara is gone... again!”

Sarafina raised her head and took a look around.

“No... I’m sorry, Simba.” Replied queen’s mother. “I was sleepless tonight, so I’m weary as usual...”

“Just rest.” Said king and checked second chamber of cave. His daughter was definitely gone.

Tanabi, who had entered sleeping chamber right before, looked on his grandmother.

“So... Didn’t you sleep tonight, grandma?” asked.

“Tanabi!” ordered Simba. “With Zazu, I’ll go look for your sister. Just stay in place and let her rest!”

“I will check those track with uncles.” Said prince to exiting father. He heard something like agree-murmur.

“Tracks?” inquired old lioness. She stood and came to grandson.

“No, rest, grandma...” replied Tanabi, but seeing her awake, added. “Or came with us, if you are curious.”

*

Before main entrance three old lionesses, young prince and king’s friends were looking on spot of blood. Timon was sniffing intensively, until Sarabi said.

“Well, I’ve never expected, that meerkats have a so fine sense of smell.”

“We have not.” Replied Timon. “I just coming in this role! We are investigating, right?” she sniffed once more but suddenly froze with disgusted face.

“Ow... sorry!” whispered Pumbaa.”

“Just think a while.” Said Tanabi. “Grandma.” He turned to Sarafina. “You said, that you were on walk in night. Haven’t you noticed anything unusual?”

Queen’s mother froze in almost fear. “No, I can’t say them about Hawaa!” thought “This is all my fault and my duty to mend this terrible mistake.” She replied with uncertain voice.

“As I said, I was on long trip. I went... before midnight and got back an hour before dawn. I saw nothing strange... but for most time I wasn’t here.”

“My dear!” surprised Sarabi. “Have you told this Rafiki. Maybe he have some herbs for sleep?”

“Right, you should be examined.” Agreed Tanabi. “We’ll send Zazu for Rafiki. If you want to sleep, just go...”

“No!” interrupted old lioness.” I’m not sure, but I think, when I was going out, meat was on place. But when I was back, I saw no carcass, for sure. I remember, that I stomped in this bloody pool and got dirty.”

Tanabi wondered for a while and replied.

“So, we know approximately time of this... missing, but it gives us nothing...” Then he smiled. “I know! Tracks! Or pawprints, if that one stepped in blood.”

So all lions, meerkat and warthog started to search for any blood-spots. Tanabi saw it first.

“Here! A path downhill.” He pointed it with paw. “No pawprints, but red marks.” He licked one of spots. “Fresh ones.”

“Oy!” called Timon and Pumbaa, disgusted, but lionesses went to smell spots.

“Gnu.” Said Sakia. “Our girls got gnu yesterday. That’s it.”

Prince went downhill, still sniffing low, on the ground. He turned back to lionesses and called.

“There are more... a sure track. I’ll follow it. I’m good in this stuff.”

Sarabi and Sarafina looked on themselves with anxiety.

“My dear...” said queen-mother. “You can’t go away from Priderock alone...”

Tanabi narrowed eyes in irritation but replied with calm and polite voice.

“Grandma, this is an emergency! And...” he looked on Timon and Pumbaa. “Uncles will go with me, right?”

“Aren’t we using in hunt?” asked warthog, whispering.

“Pumbaa...” replied Timon. “Better as a battue than a prey!” he turned to Sarabi. “We will take care about him!”

“That what I’m afraid...” muttered queen-mother, but she agreed. “All right, go Tanabi. But try to back soon and in case you found something, back on Priderock at once.”

“Sure, grandma!” called lion. “Timon, Pumbaa, come on!” And not waiting for his <caretakers>, he started walking on savannah track, searching for other marks.

Lionesses went back to cave, just Sarafina stopped in entrance and took a look to north, to distant outlands. She thought “Where are you now, Hawaa? Can I meet you again?” And then she understood, that that was her quest, to bring her charge back to pride. So she had to try see her again. The best way to do that, was to rest and wait for night. Night was proper time for Outlander for action.

“Saffy... go rest.” Called Sakia from inside.

“Yes... I will.” Replied old lioness. She had to rest before her work.

*

After warmup, Outlanderesses were expecting for skirmish fight. Like day before and two days earlier... and before that. But Zira climbed on ledge of mound next to training place and called to her pride.

“Listen, everyone! There will be no skirmish today.” Murmur of relief sounded between lionesses. Hawaa tried not to show her joy, but it was difficult. She was exhausted by events of last night and she probably would be weakest member of her team this day. She smiled, hearing that news. Zira was continuing. “And we will no skirmishing from now.” Another murmur, this time, of surprise, sounded in plateaux. “The day of final battle is near and we can’t afford for any accidents, even minor injuries. So from now, to day of your return, we will just practise alone and more our spirits than bodies. You know everything, you should to know. Separately, we are dangerous...” she lowered her voice. “And together... we are deadly!” Outlanders made a silent salute to theirs queen. “So, you have more free time and I suggest, to use it for additional huntings. We must be as strong, as we could. But, remember!” she pointed on Nuka, standing next to her. “Be careful on your hunts and use of Nuka’s help. And now...” she came closer to edge of rock ledge. “...we should remind ourselves, what for we are fighting. Go to Gathering Place. I wish to tell you a story.”

Everyone in pride knew the tale, that Zira was going to repeat, but no one objected it, even didn’t show any sing of boredom. Those were the words, that Outlanders liked to hear. Words of pride and hope, tale that was warming up for a battle. And this battle was coming fast.

All lionesses started to go in Valley of Gathering direction and Nuka jumped down from ledge. He ran to Hawaa and licked her in forehead. They hadn’t seen themselves this day, both had overslept, because of night events.

“Did you hear that?” she asked. “It is near!” added with excitement.

“Yes, I know.” Replied Nuka. “So I have so little time...” muttered quieter, but under asking stare of Hawaa he said. “Never mind. Come on, let take some good seats.”

So they followed other Outlanders.

*

In centre of Outlands was small valley, surrounded by rugged rock-walls. Its ledges looked like seats or tribunes of amphitheatre. Outlanders called this place Gathering Valley and were gathering there, when queen or any other member of pride wanted to speak before others. And this time was similar. Lioness took places on ledges of valley and Zira with Kovu went down to plateaux. They were clearly seen and heard by everyone there. Hawaa and Nuka took a place in one of highest row, but with nice view not only for queen but rest of the pride too.

“Will we hear well?” asked Hawaa with doubt.

“If not, I could repeat you, what she tells.” Replied Nuka with irony, but stopped quickly, seeing real excitement on his beloved face. Lioness was avid of queen’s words, doesn’t matter which time she was hearing them. “Yes, it’s good seat.” Added Nuka and laid on rock. Hawaa sit next to him and hugged lion. Ceremonial speech started.

“Pride! Listen to me!” called Zira with official voice. “We are here to salute those who died and prepare to fight for their honour. Time of our return is near and I see, you are ready to raise Scar’s banner against the sky. Our training is complete.” Zira raised her paw and roar of twelve lion’s throats sounded. “Thanks to you, my son, Kovu, is ready to follow Scar’s pawprints and retake what once was ours! Hailed be the king of Prideland!” she pointed on blackmaned lion and next wave of roars burst.

Hawaa roared too, but she noticed, that Nuka only opened his jaw and remained silent. Her heart froze and she narrowed her eyes in pain. This was unfair! Nuka, oldest child of Zira and biological son of Scar hadn’t his chance to prove worthy. Lioness cuddled her beloved head with paw and murmured with sympathy. She felt tensed muscled under her touch.

“For me, you are the king.” She whispered.

“Yes...” replied lion. “And nothing else matters.” But tune of his voice was suggesting something opposite. Then Zira continued.

“Soon, Kovu will kill Simba and we will strike on Priderock with all our might! We must be ready for that. We must remind yourselves, why we are doing it and thanks to whom! Who were we?” she asked.

“Golden Pride!” replied lionesses.

“Who are we?”

“Outlanders!”

“Who will we?”

“Golden Pride!” called lioness with proud roars.

“Yes, The Golden Pride again! And truly heirs of Priderock too. We are royal family, all we are! We are descendants of kings and queens. Hailed be the heroes!” she exclaimed.

“Hailed be the heroes!” repeated lionesses.

“Hailed be king Scar the Wise!”

“Hail!”

“Hailed be Rama, hailed be Vii, hailed be Doria and our others fallen sisters!”

“Hail!”

“Hail be our friend and protector, Amini!” called Zira, causing some surprise in pride. Name of Kovu’s father wasn’t used in memorials before. But lionesses quickly replied with similar enthusiasm.

“Hail!”

“We will avenge them and restore memory of their glory.” She moved her stare on gathered auditors. “Some of you remember it, some others heard this from others, but we know the truth! The Golden Pride, once saved by king Scar, made an alliance with lions of Priderock. I became the queen of Prideland and Scar was crowned as the king of Golden Sands. However, we saved our memories and identities, we became as one, great family, standing together in times of hard trial. Under the leadership of Scar, we all have survived the Great Drought. We resisted the hardest turn of the Circle of Life and made our own round, as we wished. We remained invincible...” she lowered her voice almost to growling level. “...until we were defeated by the betrayal!” Roar of anger sounded in valley. All lioness screamed in call of outrage. Even for this younger ones, this history was present. They were one with those who were gone. Pride was eternal. “Pridelanders and hyenas killed Scar, their benefactor and defender. Usurper Simba took a throne in bloody fight, to rule as tyrant without an honour. That night, I swore under Priderock, that I will dispose this traitor or die trying. We all tried one, but we failed, due to tyrant’s power. But then you made the same oath as I. And this oath have given us strength to train and regain power. So we won’t die... Why? Because, WE ARE THE FUTURE!” loud roars burst in valley. “We have a quest to restore justice and peace in this tormented land. The reign of Scar will be back with mighty roar of Kovu. WE SHALL PREVAIL!” finished Zira with breaking voice. All lionesses started to call and roar in fury of anger and pride. Every single lion there was sure who had right on this war and was ready to prove it in the battle. War cries went out right from heart and speed to bloodred sky. Zira waved with paw and all lionesses jumped down to plateaux. Last came Nuka and Hawaa, who were sitting on highest seat. Then all Outlanders surrounded their queen and Kovu and Zira started to lick and hug every single member of pride. They show themselves their unity.

[“Unity” song. War-like tune with lion’s roars instead of drum’s beat.]

[Zira is coming to every lioness in pride, hugs her and whispered some words on ear. After that, each lioness sings their parts.]

All those who live / and those who died

In common march / to future days

Walking at once / with side to side

To the same aim / from the same place

[Last ones are Hawaa and Danthi. Because queen stays longer with Hawaa, orders breaks because of that. So again, first lioness (Dotty) starts another verse, and next lioness (Spotty) follow, as just before.]

With the same beat / of akin hearts

Sharing the dreams / that father dreamed

Building the keep / that’ll never part

Because we are / so strong within

[When camera comes to last lioness before Hawaa (Ostatsi), Zira came to last in row – Danthi, hugs her quickly and starts to climb uphill.]

[All pride is singing.]

Eternal pride, we are the unity

What we remember gives us might

What we are doing sure is right

Because our fathers showed us what we see

[Hawaa and Nuka joins (but Nuka is not fully convinced, looking with envy in Kovu’s direction. In background of capture, we see vivid pictures of the past: Shot from Simba’s Pride, when Zira and small Kovu ale threaten by Simba and lionesses in “Who Does She Remind You Of?” scene, then picture of older Zira on desert border, then training of Outlanders and finally talk of Zira and Hawaa.]

(H)You called it hate / (N)It’s not a hate

(H) It’s just a faith / (N) in fairest world

(H) So still we fight / (N) and break the chains

(H) If not with tongue / (N) we must with sword

[Then camera turns to Vitani and Kovu, standing on lowest ledge of valley. They sings in duet too. Like just before, vivid pictures are seen: Simba, banishing Shakisa and Yakta, Simba, Rakifi and Kiara during presentation, then Zira, who is swearing revenge to Simba (17^thchapter from The Scar’s Heir), finally capture of  valley, full of Outlanders.]

(V) To punish sins / (K) wipe out the lies

(V) To humble proud / (K) and raise ashamed

(V) Revive the might / (K) that once had died

(V) The legacy / (K) today reclaimed

[All pride sings, capture of Zira, standing above then and singing too.]

Eternal pride, we are the unity

What we remember gives us might

What we are doing sure is right

Because our fathers showed us what we see

[Music become even more battle-like. Roars become drums. Queen raises her both paws to catch attention.]

[Zira:]

Sisters, our time has come

Go there proudly, raise your heads

And let sound the sound of drum

Our aim lays just ahead

[Zira points her younger son]

Lead us Kovu! [Vitani, with excitation:] Show the way!

Make us proud and make us win

[Zira:]

The Heir of Scar, so strong and brave

Will avenge the Simba’s sin!

[She hits rock with fists. Roar of all pride answers her.]

[Music and picture fade to black.]

*

“Did you hear that?” asked Simba with terrified voice.

He was standing on savannah’s hill and Zazu was flying just above his head. Hornbill turned his head to north and replied with calm voice.

“Don’t worry, sir. Outlanders, for sure, but from other side of river. They are far from that.”

“But Kiara is also far!” muttered king with breaking voice. “Zazu, let’s split up. Fly to the river and then go east. I’ll check ford next to Elephant Graveyard.”

“She is all right, Simba.” Replied bird, but lion wasn’t hearing him. Simba already started to speed northwest. “Ech... They should pay me more for that. I’m not a majordomo, but also babysitter... I know, I must get someone to help. Tiko said once, he is bored in home so...”

Zazu flew to the Border River, to discover, that Kiara wasn’t there. So he turned east, direction of the Mighty Jungle and Green Hills and speeded there. He passed over small rock, with hidden cave in it. He had no idea, that it was called <Cub’s Sanctuary> by Outlanders and that princess Kiara was inside of that den, sleeping after her night trip.

But say honestly – would you require from lawyer and official to be perfect scout in the same time? Zazu failed to find Kiara, as well as king himself. She was discovered by Tanabi, an hour later and that was a pure coincidence. Lioness was indeed gifted in running off, almost as mysterious night-guest.

08 – Rise of the Outlands

Refuges entered Outlands in early evening. Hunt had taken them few hour before that and had shown that north side of river is in fact infertile. Zira heard reports of her pridemates, about empty wasteland, scorched with sun. But most important things were in place – two independent sources of clear water. So queen decided to stay there, at least for few days, to heal injuries from fights with Simba’s lioness and dramatic river-crossing. Golden Pride and rouges came to giant termite colony, full of long-dead mounds.

“Ow... even most of termites haven’t survived the drought.” Noticed Amini.

He said that just in air, but hoping, that Zira would her him and reply. Since the moment, that they awoke in beach, hugging each other, queen said no word directly to him. After that, she just stood, looking into the ground and when Amini said quietly “Sorry”, she turn away and walk to rest of the pride. Blackmaned lion felt, that he somehow had offended Zira seriously, but he didn’t know, in what particular. So he was trying to start any conversation, during all route, but he failed.

“This will be our keep.” Said Zira, pointing giant, but dead termite mound. It was over ten meters high and hollow inside. “I mean... temporary keep.” Added, seeing curious stared of twins. “Someone should check it out...” she said.

Amini didn’t allow anyone to do it. He immediately went to gap in mound’s wall and came in. Inside was empty space and instead of termite hive, just dead air. Lion sniffed it deeply, but he felt nothing unusual. In upper part of mound there was a vent, once using by termite to ventilate theirs home. But termites were gone and system was still working, giving enough fresh air to breathe. Amini went to centre of main chamber, to see with surprise, small dead tree-trunk, looking like some kind of seat.

“The throne for the queen.” He muttered with irony. “But better that palace than none.” He went out from building.

During that time, Golden lionesses were split in teams by Zira and sent to scout the area. Somehow, queen forced rouges to do this job too, but maybe that was only thanks to lionesses, that they were supporting. Horen went with Doria, Daki with Vii and Laki with Thela. Before mound stayed just Zira and her cubs.

“Is clear... at least, as local standards.” Said Amini and smiled uncertainly. Zira returned this smile, but she looked even more embarrassed that he.

“Thank you.” Replied. “It’s good to have some shelter from the sun.”

“Mom!” said Nuka with playfully voice. “If there will be hot, we could go to river and take a bath. And mister Amini teach me to swim. Right?” he looked on lion.

“Yes, of course, if your mother decide, you can.” Said blackmaned. “And maybe better in somewhere other place, than those, we swam yesterday.”

“All right.” Interrupted Zira. “Come inside and look for our temporary house. Nuka, follow me.” She grabbed Vitani with teethes and entered the mound.

“Not very impressive, but enough room for whole our group.” Commented Amini, when they all were inside.

“Cool!” said Nuka. “And those little termites made it all?” he took a look on walls.

“Yes.” Replied Amini. “But they have years... maybe centuries to do that.”

“Patient creatures...” muttered cub.

Zira carefully went to dead trunk.

“No vermin. I checked.” Said Amini, so lioness put sleeping daughter on log’s top.

She returned to Nuka and grabbed him too.

“What, mom? We are going sleep already?” asked cub with disappointment, but queen put him next to his sister and then answered.

“Yes, my dear. It was a long day... long days. Try to sleep as long as you can. You must regain you strength.”

“To save Hawaa and Yakta?” asked, with sleepy voice.

“Yes. For that too.” Said Zira and licked cub’s face. Then she licked Vitani, gentle, not to wake her and silently drew back. “He was really exhausted.” Whispered, passing Amini. “He is sleeping already.” They both went out from mound.

Zira sit on plateaux before her keep. Amini joined her uncertainly, just waiting, when she order him leave. But nothing that happened.

“It looks nice.” Said Zira. “In rays of setting sun it have almost golden colour. <Golden Hall>, how do you think? Might be or it’s too pretentious?”

“The house of queen is never too pretentious.” Replied lion. “Nice name. It will help you to stay here for some time.”

“And you won’t?” asked Zira with some strange tune in her voice.

Amini came closer and sir in front of lioness. He looked in her eyes, where he saw mist of sorrow and melancholy.

“Zira, if I have offended you in any way, I’m...”

“No.” she wagged her tail in gesture of embarrassment. “The problem lies not in you. In me, namely.”

“Zira, what happened?” asked Amini with anxiety in his voice. She smiled with bitter smile.

“You. You happened. And that is all the problem.”

“What do you mean?” amazed lion, but somewhere in his hear he felt freezing bolt.

“Just, what I said. I met you yesterday, but until that time, you managed to save me, save my children, persuade your friends to help us and prove yourself most helpful friend I have. And that is the problem. I have nothing to return this favours.”

“You have.” Smiled Amini. “And you are returning all the time. Since one day, I have a pride... Of course, supposing, you let me... that is: let us stay.” Corrected himself lion.

“How many others suppositions have you made?” asked Zira.

“A... what?” amazed blackmaned.

“I asked you, what else, you expect from staying with us.” She said, looking on setting sun. “Because I made my suppositions. That are: you will protect us, until we recover, you will help us in regaining Priderock and then, you will go away, or stay with us, not demanding any prize for that. Nice deal, huh?” Zira, seeing, that he was still confused, added with quieter voice. “Don’t play with me, Amini. I see, how you look at me, how you try to flatter me and, what is most important, what you are ready to do, to help me. I must say you one – it’s not worth of that.” He wanted to interrupt her, but she raised her paw and was speaking again. “As you know, I had a mate, that was king Scar. But our relationship was something more than political alliance of prides or even common mate-bound. It was love... stronger than every emotion on this world. It rescued me from this disaster and allow me to live and care for my pride. And even when he is gone... he is still part of me. And he will be, forever.”

“I have never suggested...” started lion, but she interrupted him.

“No, you don’t understand. I mean, that I cant fall in love in any lion, even so handsome and protective as you. I’m sorry, Amini... I’m... just bounded with Scar stronger, than with any other living one. I’m raising his cubs and I love them... because they are his cubs. And I love them even more, because they someday became descendants of Scar’s power and glory. I consider as my dear friend anyone, who supports my dream... but mainly, because he is doing it. Do you understand me?”

Lion turned his eyes to the ground and was silent for long time. Then he suddenly burst in laughter. He stood and immediately felt down again, giggling in impulsive giggle. It took few minutes, before he calmed down. Finally, he said with breaking voice, mixing laughter and melancholy.

“Yes... the most deadly adversary is the absent one. I can’t hurt him, wound him... even enrage him. He is untouchable... because he is not here.” He looked in Zira’s eyes. “So, I can’t match with Scar... because he is dead!”

“Precisely.” Replied Zira and on her face showed compassionate look.

“Right!” he stopped laughing and added seriously. “So Scar, as you mate, is dead. But Scar, the king Scar, is still living, right?”

Zira nodded and replied with amaze.

“I haven’t expected, that anyone understands me. You are wise lion, Amini. Very wise.”

“Ignorance is a bliss.” Muttered blackmaned. “So... The only thing, that matters in your life is to remain faithful to him?” lionesses nodded. “And you will do everything to fulfil his will and to raise his cubs?” she agreed with another nod. “So... This sounds not bad, after all!” finished with smile.

“What?” amazed Zira.

“Just listen!” replied Amini with emotion. “I know, I’ll never replace Scar in your heart and I won’t even try. I let him be your king... if you... let yourself be my queen!” Zira answered only with opening her lips. “Let me love you as you love Scar. Be not my mate, but beloved queen.”

“I get everything, you nothing. This is not fair.” Noticed Zira.

“Life's not fair, is it?” smiled Amini. “But we have no alternative to it. Just let me support you, let me protect you. I won’t claim anything, just I’m your subject. Right?”

“You don’t know, what you are talking about.” Said Zira and went to him. She put her paw on his and looked deep in his eyes. “I shouldn’t allow that. But I must fulfil Scar’s will for all cost.”

“Am I that cost?” smiled lion.

Zira gentle hugged him, more like compassioning friend than mate. He just smile with even more joy and surrendered to this caress.

“There are trials that your queen will demand from you. Don’t agree on what you wouldn’t stand.”

“Just don’t ask me to leave.” Replied Amini. “Other orders I will follow with pleasure.”

“Not all of them.” Disagreed Zira. “Surely, not all.”

“So, what could be the worst?” asked Amini with still playful, but also quite uncertain voice.

“Scar needs Kovu.” Because he didn’t understand, she explained. “He needs son. Your son. Your son to be heir of Scar.”

Amini was silent for longer while and he answered with shyly question.

“But I will his caretaker, right?” Zira nodded. “And teacher? And friend?” lioness gave another nod. “Right. I will be father... of your and Scar’s son. Let be it!” he agreed with firm voice. “I will and I will be proud of it.” Zira again cuddled in his mane and sighed with relief. “Tomorrow, I’ll tell Horen, that I’m not longer a Windy Rouge, but humble subject of Zira... Don’t worry, I keep them with us, at least until you are ready to strike on Simba.”

“I’ve change my mind.” Suddenly interrupted Zira. Amini jumped back and asked with fear.

“Changed? About what?”

“About you.” Replied lioness. “I still consider, you are brave, smart and I just have known, you have good heart. But one thing I told about you is wrong... I can’t call you wise in any way.”

“Don’t worry!” muttered lion. “Intelligence and common stuff children inherit from mother.”

*

Scouting teams returned before midnight. Lionesses and lions went back to, so called, Golden Hall, to find Zira and Amini before it’s entrance. Queen and rouge were chatting like old friends in airy talk, like all events of previous day just disappeared into the air. Only Horen, hearing carefree laugh of friend, felt something unusual in this. He left Doria for a while and nodded to Daki and Laki.

“Guys... come here, for a moment.”

Twins stood and went to leader, not very content, because they were in Vii’s and Thela’s company.

“Is this important sir?” asked Daki.

“You, know...” added Laki. “Ladies are waiting.”

Horen came to one of the lowest mounds nearby and jumped on it’s flat top. Brothers followed. Horen pointed on Zira and Amini, laying next to Hall’s entrance. In light of full moon, they were seen clearly.

“Did you see that?” rouge asked.

“Yeah. What is wrong with him?” surprised Laki.

“I don’t know.” Replied Horen. “But something changed. He seems to be... grown? Mature? Like he became someone other this evening. Don’t you think so?”

“Maybe.” Said Daki with uncertain voice. “He is talking real rots now... Do you think, that is thanks to our brand new queen?”

Horen sighed and replied.

“Boys, we must be prepared for worst. We possibly are not a quartet any more, but a trio.” He looked on them with freezing stare. “But we can’t afford another causalities. Don’t let those insidious females to fool your mind.” Finished and jumped down from mound. Twins stayed alone in silence and Daki looked on his brother.

“Hm... Boss sounds reasonably. But tell my one thing: if those lionesses are so great threat, why he just has run to Doria?”

Finally, exhaustion prevailed daily emotions and excitations and soon all lions went into Golden Hall to take some sleep. Only Zira and Amini stayed outside.

“Why don’t you hide in shelter?” asked Zira, looking on blackmaned.

“It’s hot night. Unexpectedly hot, for rainy season.” Replied Amini. “I want to cool myself.”

“Me too.” Muttered Zira. “But dawn will be probably much colder.”

“And that why I’m here too.” Smiled lion in darkness. “Maybe you will need to be warmed up again.”

*

“This is not exactly, what I was expecting.” Judged Scar, watching sleeping pride. “Tarki, can I speak with her?” starcub shook his head. “And maybe you can? She must be told about so many things!”
Ghost were floating over northern sky, where theirs stars were shining. Greeneyed cub looked like he was gazing on Earth in concentration, but probably he was concentrated only on nephew’s words, be cause he turned his stare immediately on him.

“Scar! Understand it...” started with gentle voice. “We are not omnipotent or omniscient. Our power is as strong as our love and sympathy to living ones. But too much of that emotions don’t allow you to do anything. You must calm down and trust in those who you love. They will handle trails... what ever those trials would be.”

“Zira is suffering, because of me.” Replied dead king with regret. “She swore the revenge, that would cost her lot and she reject love of Amini. I hoped, that he would replace me as her mate of father to my cubs, but now...”

Tarki looked down and placed his stare on sleeping queen.

“I have never seen such a thing.” Said starcub. “She is really special lioness... so beautiful... both outside and inside. She loves you so much, that she haven’t accepted you death. And she won’t. Probably that why she can’t hear you. You are bounded so strong, that those bonds not allow you to got to her ear... you know, what I mean?”

Scar clutched fist and hit unseen enemy.

“I know! I’m so happy and so miserable in the same time!” he exclaimed. “I love her as much, as she loves me... and I’m proud, that I’m living in her heart... But the thing, I wish the most, is her to be happy and safe. I must tell her that!”

Tarki sighed and went to nephew. He stroked his mane, what was looking quite amusing, when small cub was caressing grown one. He said with serious voice.

“Scar, we are not alone here.”

“I know.” Replied lion. “All those who died are on higher firmament. We will reunite with them, when I’m ready. Right?”

“Right.” Agreed cub. “But not all Ancient Ones are on high. Some of them are strongly bounded with world down there. Like me and you. And they are trying to mend theirs errors of lifetime. Some in wise way, some others... in foolish. But they are Kings of the Past too. They have right to try.”

Scar opened his jaw, gazing on blue firmament above him. Then, he understood and called with painful voice.

“MUFASA!”

“Wait!” said Tarki. “It’s not his fault! He wants just to repair mistakes, he did.”

Dead king grabbed greeneyed cub in paws and raised his to his face.

“What he is doing?”

“Calm down, my boy!” said Tarki. “He is protecting his pride... for all cost. He is doing, what he is considering as right.”

“He is inciting Pridelanders against Golden Ones!” yelled Scar and let loose greeneyed cub. Tarki felt down on unseen sky-floor.

“Ay!” he gasped. “That I’m dead doesn’t mean that such things don’t hurt.” He stood with dignity and replied. “You have no respect for your family.”

“It hasn’t coddled me.” Muttered Scar.

“Scar, listen to me.” Said Tarki with serious voice. “You must understand the rules. Kings of the Past, like say living ones, or Ancient Ones, like I prefer to say... It’s even more precise term, because not all of us were monarchs... Right, We, Ancient Ones, when we die, are going on firmament. For every soul, light one star there. And we can see world beneath us, to help living ones with advises and our memories. But some of us are stronger bounded with Earth and they can, in limited way, interfere in world’s routine. We are the real protectors and advisors of those who live. I, in short time, also you. But not only. Mufasa and Ahadi are close to Earth too...”

“My father?” amazed Scar.

“You said, you have no father.” Said Tarki with irony.

“No!” exclaimed dead king. “I was wrong! I didn’t know that, what you have told me! I want so see my father!” asked.

“Even, if he is supporting Mufasa in his plans?” Scar narrowed his eyes. “Yes, Ahadi is helping Mufasa to play his game with Pridelanders. He is still bounded to this world, because... of you. My brother feels so guilty because he hurt you and favoured Mufasa that he is caught here by conscience. So he was convinced by your brother to help him in... mending errors, they believed were done by your agency.”

“Goody!” gasped Scar.

“Don’t judge them hard. They think, they’re doing their best. Ahadi even thinks, that he is doing it for you...”

“I must tell him, that...”

“You can’t tell him anything.” Interrupted Tarki. “You can talk only with me, because I’m your patron here. Until you clean yourself from earthly emotions, you can’t ascent higher.”

“But I can’t disown my feelings!” exclaimed. “I wish only to guard Zira and cubs... and my pride... both prides...” he added with amaze. “Tarki, I’m not dead yet. I’m still there, on Earth. I can’t think about nothing, except those down there.”

“Even Pridelanders?”

“Even. I was their king!” cried Scar in pain.

“Ow... What a mess.” Sighed Tarki. “Scar, you were a perfect king. But if you want to became perfect a King of the Past, you must temper your emotions. Then you will able to help your beloved ones.”

“We have no time!” yelled Scar.

“We have no other way.” Replied Tarki.

*

Morning was cold indeed, but Zira bore it without Amini’s help. Sun woke over Outlands and chill of night quickly turned to hot of day. Maybe on wet savannah this weather would be pleasant, but on rocky Outlands it became hard, almost like days of drought.

“Good day, my queen.” Amini greeted her monarch. “I think, sleeping here wasn’t the best idea.”

“Good day Amini.” Replied Zira. “At first, bloody cold and then so hot... You’re right, but you are right a night too late.” Lion smiled and stood. Then, firsts lionesses started to getting out from hall. “No reason to hurry, my ladies.” Said Amini. “I’m sure, there is nicer inside.”

“No, good that are you awake.” Disagreed Zira. “We must check, what we could hunt for here.”

“In case, termites have lots of protein.” Said Horen, who just had went out.

“But have lots of venom too.” Added Doria. “Eating termites would destroy your stomach in few weeks.”

“We all were feeding on it, when we was on Southern Heights.” Replied leader. “Maybe it damaged my stomach, but not so much, for not to feel hungry. Shall we go?”

Zira waited as everybody left the Hall and commanded.

“Split in four groups, each male for team.” She looked with asking stare on Horen, but he just nodded. “Your main objective is to scout, but we must eat something too. Try not to cross the river and not to go in the Mighty Jungle Valley. We must learn to fed on this territory, because we will live here for some time. Is that clear?” There were no objections. “Who will stay with the cubs?”

“I will stay with the cub.” Say Nuka, who went to his mother and cuddled to her side. “That, I mean, I will have an eye on Vitani.”

“Yes, of course.” Smiled Zira. “But someone else should stay here. If some enemies approach here, that one should alarm rest of the pride...

“When I will be defending Vitani?” asked Nuka, fully convinced.

“Yes, that, what I’m talking about.” Replied Zira and most of lionesses smiled too. “So I will go with one team...”

“Queen shouldn’t hunt herself...” said Vii with uncertain voice.

“Usually.” Replied Zira. “But we have an extraordinary situation. I’m in quite good condition, so I will handle with hunt. Rama... How is you leg?”

“Still in place!” answered lioness, causing burst of laughter in pride. Queen noticed, that all they relaxed a little and good moods were back. Good, but condition of Rama wasn’t so perfect. Old lioness was talking with smile, but some pain could be heard in her voice.

“Could you take care about Nuka and Vitani?”

“As you wish, my lady.”

“So, let go. Horen will go with Doria, Lin...”

First day of the new era had begun.

09 – A dream so pretty

Kiara was lying in den of Cub’s Sanctuary in deep slumber. Two vivid silhouettes were standing above her – one, blackmaned and heavybuilt lion and second, with sandy mane and lighter fur. They clearly have no idea, what to do.

“Right, it worked.” Agreed Amini. “But what now?”

Desert lion was silent a while, looking on sleeping lioness. Then he said, with uncertain voice.

“Well... I brought her here, so now it’s your turn. Only you have some connection with her.”

“I? What connection?” surprised Amini.

“By Kovu.” Explained desert king. “She knows Kovu and maybe that allow you to appeared in her dream.” He sighed with hope. “At least, you have greater chances than me.”

“But... but...” asked Amini. “What should I do?”

“I don’t know!” yelled Sparthi. “Scar gave us no strict instruction. He was hoping, you prove yourself some intelligence.”

“You are from the smarter family.” Noticed blackmaned. “At least, according to Zira. Looking on you, I have some doubts...”

“Cease that!” gasped desert king. “Just try to show her yourself and... let see what happened.”

Amini stood in front of Kiara’s face and concentrated. He was dead for almost three years, but at first time in his... afterlife, he was forced to try that. He made a deep breath (although he actually wasn’t breathing) and lowered his head to princess’s ear.

“E.. Kiara?” said with calm and wilful voice.

“Right! I’ll get in a minute dad.” Replied lioness. Sparthi hit his forehead with paw.

“Kiara, look at me!” asked Amini.

Lioness somehow left her dreams for few seconds and took a mind look on lion’s spectre.

“Ow... welcome, mister.”

“Kiara! You must repeat my words to my son, Kovu.” Continued Amini. “Find him in the Outlands and tell him, he must stop Zira from her quest. It’s very important!”

“I know! ...hurt, or stepped on, or even get lost. Daddy, can I go? Please!” answered Kiara, but not to Amini, but to her dream.

“May I count it as <Yes>?” asked Amini to Sparthi.

But then some voices sounds next to den. Ghost weren’t able to be seen anyway, but this disturbance broke even this thin thread of communication.

“Prince Tanabi, we definitely lost this track.” Said Pumbaa. “And it definitely hasn’t directed here.”

“Yeah, yeah...” agreed Tanabi and went to den entrance.

“Boss, you promised your grandmother, that you would return on Priderock, when you find something.” Added Timon.

“And that’s the point!” replied lion. “We found nothing so far! So... Look!” he exclaimed so loud, that Kiara awoke. Amini and Sparthi dispelled for good. “Kiara is here! Sis?” he asked lioness.

“Ow... Tanabi...” said she with sleepy voice. “I had so crazy dream!”

“Kiara, dad is furious!” yelled prince. “You disappeared without a word... They’re searching you!”

Kiara regained her sobriety at once and ran out from den.

“Yes, we must go. We must go to Outlands and...”

“WHAT?!” screamed Timon and Pumbaa at once. Meerkat jump of the warthog back and came to lioness. “Tell me one thing, miss... How could you get a sunstroke in hole like this?! Outlands?”

Kiara stopped in place, dramatically trying to remind words from her dream. But she failed.

“Ow... sorry. It was just a dream.” She said. Then, she turned to Tanabi with scared stare. “Is dad really mad?”

“Yes.” Nodded her brother. “I strongly suggest, to back home. Uncles will find dad or Zazu and tell them, you are there. We will ask grandmas and Sakia to tell, you got back right after they went.”

“Yes, let’s do this!” agreed Kiara, nice surprised, her brother was on her side. “Let’s go.”

“Timon, Pumbaa...” ordered Tanabi. “Find the king and tell him...” he wondered for a while. “That you just have been on Priderock and Kiara returned on her own.” Then he turned to south and ran after sister.

“Wow!” sighed Timon. “Firsts, we are forced to participate in hunt. Now, we will perjure! How we got so far?”

But he climbed on friend’s back and pointed on west.

*

“Now, tell me about that.” Asked Kiara. They were speeding through savannah in Priderock’s direction.

“I have not too much to tell.” Confessed Tanabi. “We just discovered at morning, that meat from yesterday’s hunt is gone. Mom led lioness on hunt and dad went to search for you. So grandmas, aunt Sakia and I tried to find out, what is going on. Wait!” panted lion. “If I have to speak, you must slow down. It’s exhausting.”

“Ow, sorry” said lioness and waited for brother. But then she again started with full speed.

“I saw a bloody marks on track down and followed it with uncles. We lost track next to the river, near Elephant Graveyard Ford. I said: wait!” he caught up her sister, when she slowed down a little. “Now your turn. You said about some dream.”

In short time, they made almost half of distance, but every minute was precious. Simba or Zazu could have returned from searching and not find princess on Priderock, what would made sibling’s version doubtful.

“Yes.” Confirmed Kiara. “It was at night. I was dreaming about something... strange... Wait!” she called to brother, who overtook her. “I can’t run so fast and speak with you!”

“Right.” Panted Tanabi. “Let make some break.” They stopped in shade of acacia tree and sat down, stocked out, because of run.

“So... I dreamed about desert... And from the desert came some lion that I have never seen before. He had sandy mane and very wise, blue eyes. He said something I can’t remind... But then I woke up and felt that I must go on north.”

“Because of dream?” surprised Tanabi.

“It wasn’t just a dream.” Replied lioness. “It was like... real meeting, but I can’t recall what that lion told me. And I guess, I wasn’t fully awaken, when I went on savannah.”

Tanabi narrowed his eyes and said with irritation.

“Save it for dad. You can tell me truth.”

“No, I swear!” yelled Kiara. “I have made just few step to north and the I found myself in that strange den. I can’t explain it.”

Prince wasn’t fully convinced, but he nodded. Lioness continued.

“And then I felt in the other dream. But... no, there were two dreams in the same time. In first, quite normal, I guess, I was small and I was playing with dad. But in second, the was the same sandymaned lion and someone more... A very handsome lion with dark fur and black mane. He had some scars on his chest.”

“Scars? Black mane?” amazed Tanabi. “Do you remember tales about dad’s uncle, Scar? Maybe his ghost came to your sleep?”

“No!” disagreed Kiara. “That lion was friendly. I’m sure of that.”

“So, what he said?” asked lion with curiosity.

“I... I don’t remembered.” Said Kiara with shame. “Something about Outlands and... No. I can’t recall a word. I just remembered, that he was so handsome...”

Tanabi sighed loud and scratched his ear with paw.

“Nice tale.” He said. “But for dad, you must find another one.”

“But it was true!”

“It doesn’t matter. We’d better go.” Advised Tanabi.

Siblings started to Priderock and two shady silhouettes of lions stayed next to acacia.

“Not bad.” Said Sparthi. “Even as dead, you are in demand in lionesses.”

“Nice to hear that.” Replied Amini. “But we haven’t accomplished anything. We must find some other way.”

*

In the same moment, Sakia awoke. She felt sudden touch of know presence, but when she raised her head, she saw no one in sleeping chamber. She recalled her dream, to discover, that she had in mind a memory of... Sparthi. Yes, brother of queen Zira was named Sparthi. He was the king of Golden Pride...

Sakia sighed with pain. It started again, conscience got her. She felt, that it was about to repeat – dreams of old times, memories of betrayal she made. For whole month after Scar’s death, she was haunting by nightly pictures of the fallen king and his companions. Then she lied to Rafiki, that she had insomnia, so shaman gave her herbs for better sleep. After some time nightmares fade, leaving lioness with serious question: If only she was disturbing by conscience, or it was whole pride, hiding it strictly. All they were guilty, so all they deserved for a punishment. For time to time, Sakia was convinced, that past is aching Sarabi and Sarafina too. And in that moment, she was almost sure of that, because she noticed, that Sarafina, in the same time, awoke in second chamber. She came to old friend and asked.

“Did you feel... something unusual?”

Sarafina froze in place. She was dreaming about Hawaa and her dream was cut by someone other’s presence. Like someone was trying to say her something, but he failed. “How much she knows?” asked herself Sarafina. “Are my regret is so clear?”

“I had a bad dream, my dear.” Replied old lioness. “Common in our age.”

“Especially, after what we have done.” Wanted to add Sakia, but she just asked. “But now all is right?”

“Yes, it was just a dream.” Lied Sarafina. It wasn’t just a dream, because Hawaa was still in Outlands, loathing her old family.

Sakia noticed that pain in friend’s eyes and was sure that Sarafina felt guilty of her betrayal too. She whispered carefully.

“Yes, that is all our fault. But now, it’s too late, to change it.”

She went out from cave, before Sarafina could asked her about anything.

*

“Grandma, we are back!” called Kiara and ran to Sarabi. When she noticed serious face of lioness, she turned her stare to the ground with shame.

“Please, don’t be angry, grandma.” Asked Tanabi. “She needs your help.”

Lioness looked on her grandchildren with surprise. They seldom weren’t in argument, so if Tanabi was defending his sister that had to be something important.

“Your father was so worried!” she muttered, but seeing tears in Kiara’s eyes, she added. “But it’s done. What did you say, Tanabi?”

“Well... if you and grandma Sarafina and aunt Sakia too, say, that she returned just after dad went out, maybe parents won’t be so angry...”

Sarabi smiled, watching this. Maybe, this was not the best way to show sibling’s love, but lioness was anyway happy, that Tanabi was trying to help his sister.

“Right, I tell it Sarafina and Sakia. But you’d, young lady...” she pointed on Kiara. “...better he find some good explanation on this. I hope it won’t happened again!”

“It won’t, grandma.” Whispered princess and Sarabi went into cave.

“So, what should I say father?” asked lion. “I guess, he is going here.” He pointed a silhouette on savannah.

“Well...” wondered Kiara. If even her brother hadn’t believed her, how she could hope, others would. She had only one way to avoid questions and too much of reproaches. Confess everything, or even more, that really happened. “I’ll tell him, that... I just went out in the morning on walk and I’m very sorry.”

“As you wish.” Said surprised Tanabi. “But don’t say, I haven’t tried to help you.”

*

Simba returned shortly after, full of both anger and relief. He disciplined Kiara with bitter speech, but intercession of Sarabi and Tanabi prevented other forms of punishment. Just both king’s children were ban to leave Priderock without company of some other lion.

“Sorry, you are not safe even with Timon and Pumbaa.” Said Simba. “We failed to find this scavenger, so we don’t know, who is he.”

“I tried, father.” Muttered Tanabi.”

“I know and thank you.” Replied king. “If this thief or thefts really came from Elephant Graveyard, it might means, that hyenas are back. We will check this later, with all our pride.”

In this moment, Sarafina came to king’s chamber.

“Rest, Sarafina.” Said Simba. “Zazu have already flown for Rafiki. They will be here soon.”

“I’m all right, at least now.” Replied old lioness. “I was just wondering, about this night quest. “Maybe, my insomnia would be helpful. I can guard on ledge this night...”

“No, just speak with Rafiki.” Ordered king. “We will handle it ourselves.”

*

Shaman came to Priderock just before return of hunting team. He took Sarafina to back cave and started to examine her with his strange and amusing methods. He was singing some incomprehensible chant and touching lioness’s head with fresh coconut’s shells. After some time, he judged.

“Strange... You seem to be perfectly healthy.”

“Is that not because of my age?” she asked. Rafiki smiled and replied.

“No, of course not. You are not so old, after all. That I’m who deserve for retirement... But anyway... Your illness comes not from body. Maybe it comes from your heart.” Lioness narrowed her eyes and shaman was inquiring. “Is something troubling you, recently? Worries, memories?” she shyly nodded. “Well... that is beyond my skills to heal it. Only you could restore yourself peace of mind.”

“And if that is impossible?” asked Sarafina with doubt.

“Is this all about someone, who’s dead?” asked mandrill, but seeing fear in lioness’s face, added. “Ow, don’t answered me. Only you could resolve this problem.” He sighed, like he was heavy worried himself. “I know something about it. Sings... from ones we wish to see... But sings not easy to read... I’d better go now.” Finished with wondering voice. “Just... If you can’t sleep, go on walk. Effort is much better healer than me.” Rafiki went out from cave and started back on to his keep.

*

Hawaa was hunting with Nuka. In fact, it wasn’t exactly a only a hunt, but also joyful play. After satisfying first hunger with mongooses, caught on Outland’s skirts, they went to Border River, to catch some fishes. Usually, it was hard work, especially for Hawaa, who didn’t like to swim, but fishing in shallow floodplain was great. They didn’t care about fishes, just enjoying common fun.

“Get this!” called Nuka, throwing caught one into air. Hawaa jumped and grabbed it in jaw. Lion went out from water with laugh and got helping hand to Hawaa, climbing on bank. “Come on, my lady. Time to get dry.”

Lioness went out, put fish on rocky shore and looked on river.

“Wow... For those few day in year, just after rainy season starts, it is so fertile, full of preys... If it were by whole year, we would live here as kings.”

“Hm... I live like king.” Replied Nuka. “Maybe, something hungry king, but with real queen.” He licked her in cheek. “And who knows, what tomorrow would bring.”

Hawaa looked on him with inquiring stare.

“Nuka, please, tell me... You are up to something, but you don’t want to tell me. Am I right?”

Lion, who was swallowing first bite of fish, almost gagged. He quickly swallowed his portion and replied with innocent voice.

“You are always right... But, please, don’t ask me for such a things.”

“But tell me, at least, if this is something dangerous?” asked she, with concern on her face.

Lion stood and started to walk nervously around. His eyes narrowed and voice became uncertain.

“Well... life itself is dangerous. Living in Outlands is. Hunting in Border River too. I’m doing nothing new for Outlander, that I can tell you. But no more questions, please. This will be a surprise.” He smiled and looked in Hawaa’s eyes. She returned this smile, but she felt serious fear in her heart. Yes, Nuka was going to kill Simba. Alone, in challenge.

“I must help him... and guard him, whatever would happen.” She thought.

*

Night had came on Prideland’s savannah and Simba’s pride was falling asleep. King passed the idea of night sentinel, but just in case, he laid just next to cave’s entrance. Although, he had rather poor ears (maybe, because of carefree youth in jungle, where he feared no one and had been threaten by no one), but he hoped, that he would discover any trespasser, who stopped too close. Nala, much better gifted in senses, decided to lay there too. Of course, royal children were sleeping in dead end of chamber, as far from entrance, as it was possible.

Sarafina slept maybe an hour. Then those vivid dream came to her again. Blackmaned lion was telling her something important and speaking about coming disaster. Then came pictures of Hawaa, wandering alone on Outlands. And this made lioness awake.

She carefully stood and silently went out from cave. “Well.” She thought. “Our defence isn’t perfect.” She almost stepped on Nala’s tail, but queen didn’t wake up. “Strange night. Like someone cast sleepy spell on everyone, except of me.” She stopped on Priderock’s ledge and took a look on savannah. Night was clear and quite light, because of moon in full. In darkness, she noticed silver reflection of moonlit in Border River. There she had to go there. She felt, that Hawaa would be there, waiting.

“And will she?” asked Amini to his friend.

“There is high probability that they will meet.” Estimated ghost of Sparthi. “I know, it’s risky, but maybe it’s our last hope to forward our warning. Let’s go there.”

*

Nuka went out silently and Hawaa almost missed this moment. But she heard a quiet sound of stomping on rock floor and she opened her eyes. She waited about minute and followed her beloved. Her heart was beating fast in painful anxiety. She had no idea, what Nuka was intending to do. Again, come to Priderock? It would be, most likely, suicide, after recent alarm between Pridelanders, but lioness couldn’t exclude it. Maybe Nuka was trusting in his scout skills so much, that he would took a risk.

Lion went to river and swam it quickly and lioness followed right after him. Hawaa sighed with relief, when she noticed, that Nuka wasn’t walking in Priderock’s direction. He just went on path, he made day before. Lioness saw, that he stopped next to old, already inedible carcass of some antelope, and dragged it on track. For some time, he was doing something with fallen creature, then just turn away in river’s direction and started.

“Ow, Stars... it’s over!” sighed Hawaa in mind. “Just another trick... another puzzle of his trap. So it won’t be tonight.” She crouched down, to wait, until Nuka went to river. When she heard splash of water, she stood... to see another lion’s silhouette on savannah. “They are tracking us!” she exclaimed in mind, but then he discovered, that she was seeing only one lioness. Well known lioness.

“Are you waiting for me?” asked Sarafina with hope.

Hawaa didn’t want to speak with former caretaker, but she forced herself to, just to give Nuka time for easy return. She still wasn’t sure, if old lioness was alone.

“Maybe, maybe not.” She replied and came to Sarafina. Lionesses hugged her. “I have insomnia. But why did you come here?”

“The same. Uneasy sleep.” Said older one and sit on grass. “And I really hoped, I would find you.”

“Did you reconsider decision about give up?” asked Hawaa, with mix of irony and hope.

“I was about to ask you the same question.”

Younger lioness sighed with irritation. It was useless, she wasn’t able to worry about Sarafina, having Nuka in mind. Her priority was to prevent him from doing any stupid thing and this task was hard enough. “If she want to stand against us, let it be. I’m really sorry about that, but she had her chance to...” then sudden idea came to lioness mind. “Yes! That maybe is it! Last chance to stop the war. Convince Nala’s mother to bow before name of Scar. After that, Pridelanders surely would reconsider theirs claims.”

“Sarafina... I want you to do me a favour.” Said Hawaa.

“Yes, my dear?”

“Go... go with me on Outlands. Tonight. I will guarantee you safe return.” She asked with pleading voice. “Please.”

“But... now?” amazed old lioness.

“Why not?” replied Hawaa. “We don’t have to wake up whole my pride... and to draw attention of yours. You will see us, how we live and who we really are and decide, if you tell it your pridemates. I know living on Priderock, but you have no idea, what means to live in Outlands.”

Sarafina felt strange feeling, like someone was whispering to her ear words of spur. For one second, picture of lion from dream, showed before her eyes. She uncertainly started to Hawaa.

“Yes... I will go with you.” Then she reminded herself about one, but serious problem. “But river is high. I don’t know, if I made it through.”

“I will help you, aunt Sarafina.” Asserted Outlanderess. “I know this river well. Much better than anyone.”

*

Nuka turned not to home, but in Elephant Graveyard’s direction. He was sure, that his trap was about to work, but he had to be sure, that would work perfectly. Decoying Simba to graveyard wouldn’t be so hard, but there... Lion had to win this duel without anyone’s help. But none on challenge rules said about place of fight. Nuka decided to make battlefield his only, but deciding ally. Just like once Scar decided to kill Mufasa by well planned trap. It was fair – a struggle between muscles and brain. Nuka choose the stronger player in this game.

Scar would be surely proud of him.

*

“We must stop them, Tarki.” Yelled Scar with pleading voice. But greeneyed cub repeated for maybe thousand time.

“We can’t. Now there is Mufasa’s turn.”

10 – The New Pride

First day on the Outlands passed in heavy effort for everyone. Golden Lioness and rouges discovered all area nearby, to find no other sources of fresh water and to determinate, how hard was hunting there. Outlands were one, great valley, divided from three sides with mountain ridge. Only on west, those heights weren’t so high, so they could without problems go... to another valley, called Elephant Graveyard. On east, between Outlands and Mighty Jungle were real mountains.

Only preys available there were small rodents and birds. Zira estimated, that they won’t survive, without hunting expeditions to jungle or hunts on Prideland’s savannah. First solution was too hard for small pride, raising cubs. The second was dangerous, but this kind of risk queen was able to take. For time, because they were about to reclaim their land.

“Ha!” She though, laying herself to sleep, next <throne>, serving as cradle for Vitani and Nuka. “And what I will do with Pridelanders then? Simba must be killed, he is an usurper. But I can’t prove any lionesses crime against the king. And I can just kill them all, they should have a chance to atone they errors. But how? With us? Will Prideland afford feeding over twenty... and now maybe twenty five lions?” then she gave up such a dilemmas. There would be enough time to decide, when she would reconquer her kingdom.

Amini returned from waterhole and laid down next to Zira. He wasn’t touching her, but he was close enough to show, who is her <first subject>. Queen smiled and put paw on lion’s paw. Amini murmured with contentment and closed his eyes. He seemed to be happy and satisfied in his new role.

Zira quickly felt asleep, but dreams she dreamed weren’t pleasant at all. After few night, when she had been lying in slumber like a log, at first time after her escape from Priderock, she dreamed about Scar. She was so longing for him, that even those dreadful pictures of her mate, dying at Priderock’s foot were some kind of relief. But in moment, where dreamy Scar made a final breath, Zira awoke, all in cold sweat. She raised her head and instantly looked on children, laying on trunk. She stood and stepped to <throne>.

“Zira... I’m here, guarding.” Whispered voice in darkness. It was Amini. “As a rouge I have quite sensitive ears.”

Lioness licked quickly her cubs and returned on the ground.

“I know...” she replied. “But... You know. Bad dream.”

“As far I know, I can’t fight your dreams.” Said Amini. “But I will have an eyen on every other threat.”

Lioness didn’t see his face, but she felt, he was smiling radiantly. She moved a little closer and allowed him to gentle cuddle her paw.

“Good night, Amini.” Said Zira.

“It will be good, indeed.” Replied lion with playful voice. “I have my dreams... at my paw.”

Then, they both join rest of the pride in sleep. Whole pride, except two members. Doria and Horen.

*

Sun shone Outlands and its new dwellers.

At first awoke Vitani and after few nudges, inflicted to Nuka, he got up as well. Amini caught them where they trying to went out from mound.

“Well, well, well... Where are you going?” Asked with playful voice.

“To see... sunrise.” Answered Nuka quickly.

“Nuka said that he could teach me how to swim.” Said Vitani honestly. Male cub turned his stare to the ground and Amini burst in laughter. That awoke most of the pride.

“What...?” asked Zira with sleepy voice. “Vitani? Where are going?” she amaze, seeing her daughter, quite away from trunk cradle.

“To see sunrise?” cheeped Vitani and looked on Nuka. “Right?”

Queen went to her cubs and Amini was still laughing.

“Look, my queen, you children became quite independent.”

“Yes, I see.” Replied Zira with proudly smile. “And I’m very content because of that, but I’ll probably change my mind after several more such awakenings.”

“But will we go to swim?” asked Vitani. She went to Amini’s paw and suddenly, hugged it. Lion seemed to be surprised, but also happy about that. He looked on Zira and when she nodded, he gentle grabbed cub with jaw and place her on his back. Vitani smiled and cuddled in lion’s mane. Nuka narrowed her eyes.

“Girls, ha!” he muttered. “Want only to hug. But I want to swim!”

“If you want, you can take then on river, but not let them in.” Said Zira and Amini nodded. “Children, you must obey Amini, or you will back at once. Right?” Nuka and Vitani agreed with smiles.

Lion with girl on back and Nuka at his side started to walk in Border River’s direction. Zira smiled and saw Rama coming to her. Old lioness said with playful voice.

“He seems to be perfect father.” But then she noticed painful expression on queen face. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean...”

“Never mind.” Replied Zira with tensed voice. “Call Vii and Doria, we must confer about today’s...”

“There is no Doria here.” Interrupted Daki, who was coming in Zira’s direction with his brother.

“How do you know?” surprised Rama, looking for younger friend, but she, in fact, didn’t found her.

“Because our boss is gone.” Explained Laki. “Probably they went for a night.”

Zira smiled and asked brothers with playful voice.

“Really? Horen <I_don’t_like_those_bloody_lionesses>?”

“Yeah.” Replied Daki. “Horen <I_don’t_like_those_bloody_lionesses...”

“...except_of_Doria>” finished Laki and they burst in laughter.

So morning life in Golden Hall started. Lionesses ate remnants of preys from day before and laid before mound, waiting for Doria, leader of hunting pack. After some time, golden lioness and redmaned lion showed on path from north. They stood uncertainly, surprise, that theirs return drew so much attention. But rather friendly smiles convinced pair to go to hall.

“Thank Stars that I haven’t my family with me.” Whispered Horen to Doria ear and lioness smiled. “But now you must forgive me, my pack is waiting.” Said leader and went to twins. “Gentlemen, let’s go aside.” They came behind mound nearby and Doria ran to her queen.

“My lady, I’m terribly sorry. I’m ready to lead pack at once and...” tried to explain herself Doria.

“Calm down, my friend.” Smiled Zira. “And go rest, I see, you haven’t sleep to much.” Huntress turned her stare to the ground, but not to hide shame but smile. “I will lead the hunting team.”

Doria went into Golden Hall, followed by inquiring eyes of her friends.

“O, stop it.” Gasped Zira, faking anger. “I ordered her night recognizance.” Few lionesses giggled. “But now, let go!” she turned to Outland’s Heights and started with full speed. Rest of the pride followed.

“We will search for fords!” called Horen after her.

“You can rest too.” Replied him queen. “Twins will handle it.” And she disappeared behind mounds.

“Nice.” Said Horen. “Lioness at work, lions sleeping... and Amini babysitting. New world order...” He tried to enter Golden Hall, but was stopped by heavy stared of brothers. “WHAT?!” he asked.

“Boss, you said that we can’t get fooled by those lionesses.” Said Daki with reproach.

“And that our quartet can’t down to trio... or duo!” added Laki.

Horen went to twins and put them paws on shoulders.

“Guys.” He said with merry voice. “Find yourself girlfriends.” Then he entered mound-keep.

“I’m lost.” Admitted Daki. “But I always do, what Horen says.”

*

Play on river’s beach prolonged to midday and when Amini was returning with cubs to Golden Hall, he met Zira and Vii with first part of prey. Mongooses had one advantage – they were easy to carry. Both lionesses had several creatures in mouths.

“Hi, mommy!” called Vitani. “I hunt a dragon fly on rivershore!”

“HMHHhhhh” replied Zira, what was intended to sound like: that’s great my darling.

“Yes, she stated her hunts early.” Confirmed Amini. “So, now we can switch: you will stay with cubs and I’ll support lioness in hunt.” Zira smiled and put her preys on ground.

“They drained you so fast?” asked with laugher.

“No mommy!” protested Nuka. “That was my turn to ride on Amini, but she didn’t get out. So we ride a little both...”

Vii looked on her queen with telling face. “As Rama said: perfect father.” But Zira ignored it and went to her cubs.

“Are you sure, you don’t need some rest?” asked and when he shook his head, she grabbed Vitani in jaw and went into mound. Nuka followed her, but in entrance turned to Amini and said.

“Thanks. Will we go there tomorrow?”

“Why not?” agreed Amini. “But now, go to your mother.”

Vii carried her preys into Hall, then returned to lion.

“Shall we go?”

“Yes, lead the way.”

*

When Vitani went sleep, Zira was cleaning Nuka. Finally she had some time to think. All had complicated, as if it could complicate after disaster, that death of Scar was. She was planning their return, but queen understood, that wouldn’t be so easy. Maybe, after joining four frown lions, Golden Ones outnumbered Pridelanders. But how many of Zira’s pridemates were able to fight? She made an quick estimation and judged, that they were still possibly weaker. They needed a reconnaissance, deep scouting in Prideland, to check if Simba was ready. She hoped, that enemy pride, after victory became self-assured to the point of irreverence of adversary. That was her main hope, because pride could easy turn to fear and panic, if Golden Ones could even severely wound or even kill few of Simba’s lionesses. Yes, they had to made a raid to Priderock. It was important to do it quick, to discover fate of Shakisa and Yakta. Zira even hoped, they could recapture hostages in sudden strike. Yes, it would be deadly for enemy’s morale and... greatly increasing chances of her friend and her cub.

“What are you thinking about, mother?” asked Nuka.

“About saving Yakta.” Replied queen. “Soon, we will go to Priderock and find him.”

“It’s great, mom.” Smiled Nuka. “I miss Yakta... But, what about Hawaa? Will you bring her too?”

Zira surprised with her son’s request.

“Well... Hawaa is daughter of Kilia. I’m sorry, but Kilia is Simba’s follower.”

“But Hawaa is not!” exclaimed Nuka. “I’m sure she hates Simba! And I fear, that Simba hates her too! Mom, we must save her!”

For the first time this question came to Zira’s mind. “It impossible, that all lionesses supports Simba... that mean: they are obedient to Sarabi and Sarafina. There must be some resistance to usurper’s power. And we must find and use it!”

“We will try my dear.” She assured her son.

*

Pridelanders were napping after solid meal. Lionesses easy got their preys, that were two adult zebras, so pride was satisfied, like never in times of drought. Simba was laying with Nala on the ledge and smiling.

“I still can’t believe it!” he whispered to his mate. “It’s working. I’m king for four days and land is still running quite well. I guess, I rid of this stupid anxiety.”

Queen stroked his mane and replied.

“You don’t know, what you are saying. Running quite well?” she raised her paw and pointed on savannah, that was recovering it’s green colour in unbelievable rate. “Simba... This is revival of Prideland. When you, rightful heir, returned and we banished those parasites from our land, the Circle of Life is restored... I guess, that Rafiki is best with such a speeches, but I can assure you, that you restored harmony in home. Your father would be proud...” she noticed spark of pain in her mate’s eyes. “And he probably is proud, looking on us from above.”

“But he is not here...” muttered Simba with melancholy. “Recently, I was just scared, how would I manage without his advices. Now, when I found out that somehow I can, I started to miss him not as a king, but as a father.”

“I’m sure, he would wished you to worry and focusing on past. Now, you have us to worry about.” Smiled Nala. “I hope, that soon, there will be more us, that you will have to care.”

Inside of cave, most of lionesses were sleeping. Kilia was in deep slumber too, but her daughter was fully awake and she quietly slip out from mother’s hug. Hawaa started to sneak in entrance direction... to meet Sarafina there.

“Stop!” whispered lioness, putting her paw on cub’s side. “Where are you going?”

“On a walk.” Replied Hawaa.

“Does your mother know that?” asked Sarafina and seeing scared stare of her charge, she added. “All right, you can go on a walk with me.” She grabbed cub in jaws and put on her back. “Where do you want to go?”

Hawaa was silent for while and Sarafina felt, that cub under smile is hiding her sorrow. They went on savannah to small rock nearby, where lioness had discovered first flowers. There were some butterflies, an perfect training target in hunts lessons. Cubs were usually to slow to catch it, but butterflies were colour enough to draw their attention.

“It’s a nice place.” Said Sarafina. “Do you want catch some butterflies?”

Cub looked on nearest insect, when turned her stare into ground.

“I have never got one.” She confessed. “Only Nuka can grab them.”

Sarafina narrowed her eyes, hearing this name. It was hard to sooth cub’s longing after playmate, but she knew, that it was necessary. Scar’s son became unwelcome quest on Priderock for good.

“You will learn too.” Assured lioness.

“It would be better that Nuka was back.” Replied Hawaa. “He could catch them for me.”

“Saffy?” called Sarabi from Priderock. “Could you go here for a moment?”

Sarafina wanted to reply, that she is with Hawaa and she can’t, but then from behind of rock came Sakia, like she was there some time and only was waiting for opportunity to show herself. Queen’s mother had no idea, what lioness could do in such remote place. Sakia looked on Sarafina and Hawaa then said with acodating voice.

“Go. I will stay with her.”

So Sarafina went back on Priderock’s Ledge and Sakia came to Hawaa and asked.

“So, what were you playing, my child?”

Cub turned her stare to the ground and replied with sad voice.

“In nothing particular, aunt. I was just...” suddenly, she burst in tears. Lioness hugged her and murmured with sympathy. “I was just... wondering, if Nuka would someday back to us.” Sakia froze, hearing this words. Again, this cub was reminding her, what she had mustn’t forgot. She was able to say only one.

“It’s harder, than you think.”

“But this is not fair!” exclaimed cub. “Mommy said, that king Scar is dead. Simba killed Nuka’s father! Why, aunt?”

There was no good answer on that question. Sakia just hugged Hawaa harder and remained silent. Cub was sobbing some time, then she asked with shyly voice.

“But... If I would find aunt Zira and stay with her, would mommy join us? Would you join us?”

Sakia tensed and sighed with pain. This small cub was proposing her, what she had to do long before. To find rightful queen and offer her faithful service. But for once again, lioness had less courage than cub.

“Rather not.” She replied. She knew, that Kilia was devoted to Simba with all her heart. She wouldn’t leave pride for any prize. And, of course, she wouldn’t let this to her daughter. “You must stay here... And maybe, someday, Nuka and queen Zira will be back and then we will be together.”

“Simba won’t let it.” Sobbed Hawaa. “I heard, that he was talking cruel things about king Scar and aunt Zira.”

“Kings aren’t eternal.” Said Sakia and just second later, she scared of own word. What she was suggesting to this cub?

“I must find some way, to convince mother.” Added Hawaa.

*

“We don’t know, where they are exactly.” Started Sarabi. Three lionesses: queen-mother, queen’s mother and queen herself, where sitting in back cliff of Priderock. “But, according to scouts reports, there are some tracks to Northern Ford.”

“They crossed the river?” exclaimed Nala. “After such a rains? With cubs? It would be suicide!”

“But if they made it... although, I have no idea, how.” Continued queen-mother. “It’s grave news for us. They won’t escape to those Golden Sands, for example. Outlands could be good base for short rest, but pride can’t dwell there. Too small amount of sweet water to survive dry season.”

Lioness were thinking heavily, saying nothing. After over minute, Sarafina said.

“And one thing more. If Zira made them to cross Border River and to settle in the Outlands, she would made them to do anything. Her leadership is unquestionable.” Others lioness nodded. “Please, forgive my doubts... But are we one for sure?” seeing amazed stares of daughter and friend, she added. “I mean: Are we sure our pride’s loyalty to Simba? I know, that Scar was tyrant...” said with uncertain voice. “But his reign had some advantages... and maybe sympathy for Golden Ones dimmed someone’s common sense.”

“No!” disagreed Nala. “Simba is king and Mufasa’s heir. No one would support Scar’s widow, after we found out, how Mufasa died. Scar was a traitor and a liar!” finished, almost shouting.

Sarabi and Sarafina looked on themselves, saying nothing, but silent question was floating in the air: “He was? For sure? Everyone is sure of that?”

“We must convince Simba, to find out those rebels and exile then for good. Are you with me?”

Lionesses nodded in silence.

*

Another night came to Outlands, when Zira was finishing her speech. Queen said her pride, what she was intending to do. Idea of armed skirmish to Priderock was greeted with mix of both excitement and fear. Lionesses wanted to save Shakisa and her cub, also wanted to avenge theirs beloved leader and benefactor. But idea of striking on... lion’s den, sound dangerous. Zira admitted, that they can go only with part of pride. Only five lionesses were ready to fight, what, with four rouges in support, gives nine jaws against thirteen. It looked grim, even counting males strength twice. But their main goal was to find Shakisa and depart. Hard but possible.

“We will go on tomorrow’s dusk to strike in middle of the night. Sleep well and rest. Tomorrow, only those, who stay, will hunt. We must save our strength.” Lionesses nodded in silence. “If there is no question, dismiss!” and she added with gentle voice. “...my sisters!”

“And brothers!” added Daki and Laki at the same time. Laughter, so needed by scared lions, sounded in Golden Hall.

“And brothers!” agreed Zira with smile. “Good night!”

Lionesses went to theirs lairs, but not all of them. Doria, as well as Vii and Thela, were gone. Of course, rouges were not there too. Brothers clearly took Horen’s advise seriously. So after some time, in main chamber of Golden Hall remained only sleeping cubs, Zira and Amini. Rouge came to queen and said quietly.

“Risky move. Am I right?”

Zira sighed and answered.

“I don’t remember any safe move in my life. It’s not in my style.”

“You are afraid, that they leave us?” asked Amini. “Saying honestly... I’m afraid of it too.” Zira just nodded, but then she looked on blackmaned and asked.

“Go on a walk. I must tell you something important.”

They went out from mound and started to river. They were walking in silence, until they reached beach near Northern Ford. There, Zira laid on sand and pointed her stare in lion.

“Beautiful night, isn’t it?” asked Amini, looking on moon in full, shining on river, and making silver reflections on water. “So calm... I guess, that tomorrow we will miss that silence.”

“Tomorrow.” Muttered Zira. “That why I brought you here. Amini, tell me honestly: do you love me?”

Lion smiled, but replied with serious voice.

“Well, finally, we can call it right. Of course, I do. Do you have some doubts with that?” but queen ignored his inquiring stare and asked.

“And... are you able... to love my children?”

This question confused Amini a little but he overcome his surprise and answered honestly.

“I think... yes. They have already charmed me and I think, this bound will grow stronger, if I stay here.”

“Will you care about them, if something happens to me?”

“What? What you’re talking about!?” exclaimed lion but he calmed down in next second. “Yes, I know, what you mean. I assure you, I won’t let anyone hurt you tomorrow. But, if somehow, something happens to you... I will take care of your pride and cubs. I will raise them... in memory of great mother... and father.”

Zira sighed with relief and came to Amini. She hugged him gentle and put her head on his mane.

“I have no chance to amend you all that... May Scar protect you... my dearest friend!”

“But Zira...” whispered Amini. “I can die tomorrow too. You know, that I would do everything, to protect you, so...”

“Try to stay alive.” Asked Zira with sensed voice. “I don’t know, if I manage alone.” She stepped back and looked in his eyes. “And one thing more... Maybe this is last night, when we are together. Do you remember, what have you promised me?” lion nodded. “Haven’t you change your mind?”

“No.” Amini shook his head. “I still will be honoured... and happy to help you...” he came closer to lioness and licked her cheek. “...in anyway, I could.”

*

[“United” song. Romantic, but dark-romantic tune. Music starts lions lay on the sand.

Zira is looking in darkness over river and she see vivid picture of Scar, looking on her with anxiety.]

Zira:

Separated but still united

Living on the edge of words

Still I search, so will I find

How serve, my love and lord?

[She find out with sorrow, that it only a recollection of theirs first meeting. Picture became similar to scene from Scar’s Heir.]

Amini:

Separated but still united

Now so close and now so far

[Amini is looking on Zira and stroking her head. But he sees, that she is absent minded. He narrows eyes in pain.]

Is that what you have on mind

My beloved and brightest star?

[But then, he shakes his head and looks on queen with expression of determination and devotion.]

Zira:

Will I must to break my oaths

To remain my faith untouched?

[Zira looks on the Amini and Amini’s face become Scar’s face with inquiring stare.]

You’ll forgive me, that I’m hope

That I obey to you too much

[Lioness kisses this countenance, but then it becomes surprised face of Amini.]

Amini:

I feel, like some other’s dream

Pawn in game he’s playing now

[He is recalling memories of meeting Zira and later events with her.]

But it best for me and seems

Make me, whom I want somehow.

[Memory of Zira and Amini, laying on beach, after passing river.]

Refrain; Scar:

[He is looking on it from above with sad face. From his scar drips single drop of blood.]

All this love has come amiss

Thanks to me, at least so far

Please my love, accept it, please

Don’t make me another scar

[He sings with more “operatic”, pleading voice, pointing on Zira.]

Throw the past so far away

And live like I wish you to

[He is recalling his moments with Zira. He smiles with bitter smile.]

Clear this wound, before decay

Would touch our love, we’re living through

Second verse. Zira:

Separated but still united

He won’t ever take my heart

[Zira is cuddling to Amini with Scar’s face. But king’s countenance slowly fades.]

Even, if I would have tried

Never tear my love apart.

[Then she turns her stare to sky, were countless stars shines.]

Amini:

Separated but still united

 But if must, so let it be

[Amini prevails his sadness and smiles. He lays on sand, letting Zira to look. He doesn’t interrupt.]

I’ll give her myself, beside

She’s already possessed me

[He turns his stare to the sky too, and see, that stars are making shape of lioness, similar to Zira.]

Zira:

Have I right to take so much

Nothing giving in return?

[Zira sees it, on the edge of her sight. She narrows her eyes with regret.]

How is precious the friend’s touch

Who knows that will surely burn

[Turns head to Amini and stroke his paw with her paw.]

Amini:

I am nothing but a shade

But if that makes me to be

[Amini is in Zira shadow, made from moonlight. His eyes are shining in this shade.]

Close to her, I’ll never fade

She’s my sun of every dream

[Look from Amini’s eyes: Zira’s eyes become shining like stars.]

Refrain; Scar:

All this love has come amiss

Thanks to me, at least so far

Please my love, accept it, please

I don’t want to be your scar

[Scar is singing and clutching his fist. Then, he covers his eyes with paws.]

Live the future without me

That is only will I’ve done

Save what was the best for thee

And let new life to began

[He folds his paws like to prayer. Seeing, this doesn’t work, he loses his paws, he see tears in his eyes. Also reflection of shapes of hugging Zira and Amini can be see.]

11 – Our humble home

Passing the river was dangerous thing even alone, in daylight. But then, for two lioness in the deepest night, it came extremely difficult. Sarafina could swim well, but her age made her exhausted shortly after leaving the bank. Hawaa was very strong and tough lioness, but fact that she was hugging her former caretaker with one paw wasn’t helpful at all. When they reached north side, they both were panting from fatigue. But this common effort only made them more airy – if main difficulty was passed, other troubles seemed to be easier.

“I’m sorry, aunt, but you have wait here.” Said Hawaa. “Just in case. I must prepare queen Zira for your arrival.”

“If you fail, that would be very short visit.” Smiled old lioness, but seeing embarrassment on Hawaa’s face, she added. “I know, that is rather unusual situation. I will wait, hoping that Zira won’t be upset because of awakening.”

“Sense of humour hadn’t left you.” smiled lioness. “I will hurry.”

Indeed, it was just a moment. Zira came just after half an hour, a time needed to reach Golden Hall and get back. Outland’s queen came closer to Pridelanderess and nodded for greeting.

“Good evening, Sarafina.” Said with polite and gentle voice. But it was obvious that she was barely repressing her real emotions. “I was heavy surprised by Hawaa’s idea, but maybe it gives us something useful. Welcome on the Outlands.” She turned back and started in north direction. Hawaa nudged old lioness in side, so they followed queen. “You probably know, you are still alive only because of Hawaa’s invitation.” Continued Zira. “If I would saw you on Prideland... I would have attack you without mercy. But you are a guest. Tonight, you are safe.” She stopped in place, turned to Sarafina and whispered. “But don’t expect any warmer welcome. We remember!”

They were walking in silence for some time, until they reached one of Outland’s highest hills. There Zira stopped and pointed the land below them.

“Go, look there!” asked. “This is my temporary kingdom, this is my domain. You hear this silence? It so unlike to nightly whispers of fertile savannah, south from here. This is land of hard living, without any luxuries. Do you know, what I mean?”

Sarafina was looking on Outlands, lit by only full moon. She looked on Hawaa, then turned to Zira.

“Although so many divide us, I must admit, I’m surprised, how well you manage to run this poor soil. When you escap... moved here, we was sure, you only waiting to end of the rainy season. I can’t believe, you have survived three years.”

Zira smiled and replied with bitter voice.

“It brave declaration, Sarafina. It tells us that Simba, exiling us to this place, wanted us dead. Not very surprising, but sounds unlike your chants, glorifying your glorious... usurper!” she finished with deadly whisper.

“Ow, Zira, cease that.” Replied old lioness. “I haven’t came here to talk about politics...”

“This is not about politics, this is about justice! Hawaa... tell her...”

Younger lioness stood before former caretaker and pointed north with paw. She started to speak with silent, tensed, but decisive voice.

“Look, aunt. This is my home. Although it looks poor and scary, I love this place. Not because of it’s harshness, but because of my family... my beloved pride.” She lowered her paw to point directly on Golden Hall, barely visible in darkness of night. “There. There is my family. Pride I have chosen and I have never regretted that. Even when I was crying from hunger and thirst. Do you know why?” Old lioness was silent, so Hawaa answered herself. “Because this is the Prideland! Doesn’t look, ha? But it is. This is the land, where I have born, maybe in other place, but with the same spirit. Spirit of love, honour and sympathy, so seldom on Priderock now!”

“Why do you say that?” amaze Sarafina. “If you back on Priderock, we will accept you as you beloved pridemember.”

Zira smiled in darkness with painful smile. She extended her claws, but Hawaa replied.

“If you killed one, you killed a million. If you scorned one, you scorned a million. By killing Shakisa, Yakta and other my pridekins, who you have sentenced on hunger and thirst, you killed me too. By killing Scar, you showed that nothing is sacred for you, even the monarch. You bit hand that had fed you. I wanted nothing more to do with you. This was... a betrayal!” she finished and started to walk downhill.

Zira gentle nudged Sarafina and made her start too. Old lioness was silent for a while, but then she replied.

“You are terribly wrong. Zira told you lies...”

“About times of Scar’s reign, I heard truth here... finally. You can’t deny, that you lied about incompetence of Scar kingship and repeat those lies even not, to next generation. Kiara and Tanabi probably hate their granduncle, who saved theirs mother and... grandmother from certain death from hunger.”

“He killed Mufasa!” exclaimed Sarafina. “And tried to kill Simba!” old events stood before her eyes like alive.

“You killed helpless cub, Yakta.” Replied Hawaa with silent, but serious voice. “And tried to kill all pride. And Mufasa once killed young lion called Taka, his own brother. You also killed Scar, by both killing his body and memory of him. Cruel act. And even if you are right... Are sure of that? You are shouting, like you have no other argument than loud voice.”

Sarafina felt ashamed, that emotions snatched her. She replied quietly.

“I once loved lion, called Taka. He was wise and protective person... But whatever happened, it made him evil. Scar was evil.”

Outlanderesses stopped in place and looked on Sarafina.

“Do you said, that you loved my mate?” asked Zira with impermeable voice.

“Yes, but it was long time ago.” Hawaa started again, so older lionesses followed her. “However he choose to be with Sarabi... And when those terrible things happened, I tried once again to get close to... Scar... he was Scar already. But then, he was completely different person, with bitter and corrupted heart.”

Zira burst in laughter, what surprised both Sarafina and Hawaa.

“My queen, what happened?” asked young lioness.

“Old love lies deep, my dear.” Replied Zira. “But sometimes turns to hatred. So three of my enemies, her, Sarabi and Nala, each one in her way, once loved Scar. And avenged on him, because he belonged to no one of them.” She turned to Sarafina with fire in her eyes. “Now I know, why you and Sarabi were so ill-disposed towards me and my pride. Now I know, why Nala turned her heart so quickly, from adore to anger. It doesn’t justify you, but explains a lot.”

“No, you are wrong.” Said Sarafina, but her voice was suggesting something opposite. “This wasn’t an personal matter, just worry about pride.”

“And this honest feeling made you to plotting?” asked Zira with irony.

“I think that Hawaa hasn’t to hear this.” Said old lioness with weak voice.

“I can ask her to leave, but don’t speak any secret to me. I have no secrets to her, as well as to rest of our pride. I’ll tell her everything, you tells me.” Said Zira with serious voice.

“Watch your steps!” called Hawaa and in last moment she caught Sarafina, who stumbled on some rock. Lioness regained balance and whispered.

“Thank you.”

“Don’t thank her.” Said Zira. “You are her guest. She has an obligation to guard you. But...” she looked behind the edge of track, into abyss. “Good, she caught you. You would be dead right now.”

“Nice path.” Muttered Sarafina.

“I have been playing here in my cubhood.” Said Hawaa. “It was unlike like Prideland. Rough and harsh like Outlands itself. But so fascinating... A real trial.”

They came down to Golden Valley. Main Outlander’s keep was ahead and they walked through training place. Hawaa suddenly reminded aim of this talk and stopped. She toughed Sarafina’s shoulder, so old lioness stopped as well.

“Cease that argument... I see, we will find no common ground. Let talk about, what we came here.”

“I’m listening.” Said Sarafina, sitting on the ground. Zira came there too and sit next to Hawaa, almost touching her favourite.

“I ask... no, I beg you, to give up.” Said young lioness with serious voice. Before Sarafina managed to reply, she added. “Listen to me... Understand me! I know lot about past. You said, that are lies, but in my heart, I see, that is truth. I heard, that you, with Sarabi, incited Pridelanders against us.” Old lioness narrowed her eyes, hearing that Hawaa felt herself as Outlander to core. “And you corrupted Nala, to disown her king and benefactor... But it’s done. I... we all... even Zira.” Zira narrowed her eyes, but she nodded. “Are ready to forgive you all that. We want only two things – to restore memory of king Scar and to judge Simba for high treason.” Sarafina dropped her jaw in amaze. “And maybe, his guilt is no so obvious. If you confess, that you start a mutiny...” But Zira growled quietly in darkness. Old lioness understood, that Golden Queen would never forgive Simba. “Just admit, here and now, that you were wrong and bow before memory of Scar. And then we would start a new, shining era of unity and absolve. We will as we once were... We...”

But then, in silence of nightly Outlands, sounded laughter. It was laughter of Sarafina.

“Hush!” gasped Zira. “You will wake my pride!” But lioness was laughing aloud with no restrains.

First curious lionesses went out from mound, to see giggling Pridelander, their queen and friend, standing altogether. Strange view.

“A prisoner, my lady?” asked Danthi with sleepy voice.

“No. Just a rude guest.” Replied Zira, so Outlanders stood in amaze.

“But she...”

“We’ve just proposed her to give up.” Explained queen. “I guess that was useless effort.

Sarafina finally calmed down and where most of lionesses went out to see her, she answered.

“Hawaa, are you lost your mind?” she said with more serious tone. “Listen to yourself!” young lioness turned her stare into the ground and closed her eyes. She was burning with shame. She really had hoped, that her caretaker would have regret for old crimes. But now... “My dear... You have no idea, what are requesting from me!” Then, old lioness noticed circle of angry Outlanderesses round. “So, you killed me, anyway?” asked, faking irony, but in hear she was really scared.

“No, you are guest.” Replied Zira. “We have no right to hurt you, unless you break you laws.”

“So, maybe I’ll go, before I’ll do that.” Proposed Sarafina. “I can’t even listen to your madness! You are rebels against the rightful king! You claim throne without any single reason.” She looked on ashamed Hawaa. “I ask you for last time: Will you return with me, or stay here?” Young lioness replied with breaking voice.

“I will stay where I belong... Pridelander!” she pronounced this word with so clear scorn that Sarabi froze.

“What I have done?” she thought. “I hurt her. I...” she wanted to say something, but Zira nudged her in side.

“Come on, we have to back to river.”

“But I...” yelled Hawaa. In her voice cry could be heard.

“She is my quest as well.” Interrupted Zira, loud enough for whole pride to hear. “Come on, Sarafina.”

Outlands queen and Pridelanderess started to walk uphill in silence. Sarafina noticed, like some light built lion male ran to Hawaa and hugged her. But Zira was hurrying her with gently nodes. They left Golden Valley.

“Zira, I didn’t mean to...” Zira answered with angry voice.

“Hawaa loved you once deep. Tonight, she sacrificed her pride to save you... to try to save you. It was helpless, but remember it.”

They silently came to river bank. Zira hugged Sarafina and whispered.

“There are no friendly caresses. I must take care, you won’t drown. I’m doing it only for Hawaa.”

“Who is Hawaa for you?” asked Pridelanderess, when they went to water.

“Beloved subject. She is almost like daughter to me... I learned from Scar to love once, that fate gave into my power. And Hawaa soon will became my daughter-in-law.” She added with cold voice. “Maybe even queen of Priderock?” That they started their swim.

*

Sarafina was slowly walking in Priderock’s direction and crying. She was crying over that false turn of the Circle of Life, that made her enemy of beloved friend. She was cursing her pride that hurt Hawaa so deeply.

“Maybe she is right?” she thought. “Maybe we are those cruel ones? We never see, where we are stomping. How many lives, like Hawaa’s, we have stomped on.”

*

Zira ordered all pridemates to back and rest. In few minutes, Outlanders just forget about strange event, maybe considering unusual talk before Golden Hall for just a funny dream. On place stayed only queen herself, Nuka and sobbing Hawaa. Zira went to pair of lions and said with gentle voice.

“Nuka, could you leave us for a while? I must talk with her...”

Lion licked lioness in forehead and silently drew back into Hall. Queen sit before Hawaa and waited, until she finish her cry.

“My queen.” Yelled young lioness. “Please, forgive me! That was a moment of weakness. It won’t happened again, I promise.”

“Weakness?” surprised Zira. “I see no weakness in your acting. Maybe hope, unwarranted hope... but maybe also a wisdom. It’s good, that you gave them last chance. It’s good, you have tried with Pridelander you know and who has fondness for you. It increased your chances... But you have not failed. They failed to accept the truth.”

Hawaa looked on Zira and asked with disbelief.

“So, aren’t you angry on me? I did because of my sympathy to the enemy.”

“I’m just sure, that this sympathy won’t fool you on battlefield.” She sighed and looked on mound-keep. “I’m sure of your loyalty and determination... If you were weak, you would retuned on Priderock. But you are still here.”

Hawaa looked on her queen carefully. Some heavy matters were seen on her face. This was fear and anxiety, clearly connected with rest of the pride.

“Zira... what happened? You are worried about something...”

Queen sighed again and replied.

“About this all. About our quest. We don’t strike this year, because we want to. We must.” Hawaa wanted to interrupt, but Zira was still talking. “In some ways, it would be better to wait, maybe even year more. I would have sure, that you are ready, Kovu  would be full mature and ready to king’s duties. And... maybe Nuka and Vitani would establish families... or we would make a reconnaissance to Golden Sands... Year from now, Simba would be older, probably oldest lioness from his pride would be dead. But... time is not on our side, here. For year from now, I would be older and probably not so effective in combat. But I’m just secondary detail... We won’t survive another year as a pride.”

Hawaa froze in amaze, hearing this. She was able only to ask with confused voice.

“But... but why?”

“Don’t you say, you can’t see this.” Replied Zira with grave voice. “We barely made last dry season. We were in constant hunger, morale was... surprisingly good as that extreme conditions. I fear, that for the last time. There is no spirit so great, to endure such a trail for so long. I have no right to waste you lives... in those wastelands. We must retake Prideland and start to live like lions!”

“I live like lion!” disagreed. “I’m happy here! And whole pride is happy and proud to live under your leadership.”

“To time.” Whispered queen. Then she added loudly. “Yes, I’m wrong. There is someone, who would stand everything... It’s you.” Zira smiled and stroked favourite’s head. “But now, go to sleep. It was long day and... long night.”

Hawaa bow to her queen and went back to mound. Nuka was still awoken and he waved to lioness in darkness of sleeping chamber.

“All right?” he whispered, when Hawaa went closer.

“All right.” Replied Outlanderess. “Except that shame, I felt because that Pridelander. But... don’t talk about it. Let rest.”

“Right.” Agreed Nuka. “For next time, she will come here on her knees, with apologies.”

Lions hugged to themselves and immediately felt asleep. Right after that, Zira returned and laid herself next to Golden Throne. For long time, trunk was empty. “Kids... they are growing so fast.” Thought Zira and closed her eyes. She slept without dreams, but this was right what she hoped for.

*

Next day, on Priderock, live awoke with usual scheme. After few minutes of careful examine, Simba judged, that no one tried to invade them at night, what caused immediately relief between pride. Especially, for Kiara and Tanabi.

“This chamber stinks!” muttered prince. Pumbaa, who had just got up, next to him, narrowed his eyes in shame. “No, I mean, that is small and sultry. Even Green Den is better than this.”

“Don’t say that.” Replied Kiara. “If dad hear, he would probably send us there...”

“...for our own good and safety!” finished Tanabi. Siblings burst in laughter. “Kiara, when you will be queen, never be so cruel for your subjects.” Added prince and went out to main chamber.

Kiara nodded with amusement, but then she understood, that words of her brother could be heard in few ways. Somewhere sounded a tune of envy, that she, not he, would be ruler of Prideland. But lioness quickly gave up those heavy thinks and turned to Pumbaa.

“Uncle.” She started with innocent voice. “Because dad forbid me to depart from Priderock... I must practise my hunting skills nearby.”

“So?” asked warthog with anxiety in his voice.

“I must have some... sparing partner.” Added.

“No, problem, my lady.” Smiled Pumbaa and went out, following lioness.

Timon stayed on place and sighed.

“Whatever they called it, it remains the same. We are preys!”

*

That day Sorphi was leading hunting team, so she discovered that strange carcass on savannah’s path. She stopped lioness and came closer to dead body of zebra.

“Vinia, what do you think?” she asked her friend. Other lioness smelled the meat and started to examine it.

“Well... partially devoured... To old to eat, at least for the lion... Numerous tracks of biting... very numerous. Fresh ones... They eat such a rotten food!”

“Hyenas?” asked Sorphi with anxiety.

“Most likely... But anyway, king should see this.”

Team continued hunting, but Vinia went on Priderock to get Simba on northern path. After about two hours, they both find carcass and king examined it himself. Then he looked on north, to see Elephant Graveyard Ford nearby. He sighed with irritation.

“Hyenas once again settled on graveyard. We must rid them of definitely!”

“Eee... now, sir?” asked Vinia with uncertain voice.

“No, of course not! This is an job for bigger expedition. We will go... tonight. I’m sure, that this will be surprise for those scavengers.”

*

Nuka was sleeping in shade of mound, to restore his strength. He was preparing for nearest night, to fulfil his plans. He had no warranty that Simba would catch the bait in first try, but somehow, he felt that. In his dreams, he was already king of the Prideland, ruling with his beloved queen at his side.

Dusk was coming fast, carrying a new hope for Outlanders.

*

“Okay, okay, okay! Okay!” was screaming surprised Rafiki. “All right-- okay! I don't think this is going to work... but I trust you. I just hope you know what you are doing!”

Mufasa’s spirit smiled and ceased wind in shaman’s keep. Then, he started to ascending to firmament, but when he lifted just over Rafiki’s baobab, he noticed Tarki, watching him carefully.

“Good evening, my nephew!” smiled starcub with his airy smile. But this time, on face of dead king’s uncle was waiting silent question.

“Good evening, uncle.” Replied little nervous Mufasa. “What guided you here?”

“A idea of asking you with the same question.” Replied Tarki and went closer to dead king. “I was just wondering... if you aren’t giving instructions to living...”

If Mufasa was alive, he would probably gulped. But ghost just turned his stare on the ground and replied with innocent voice.

“I was visiting my old friend. There is nothing wrong with that, I said him nothing.” Thanks to shaped senses of Ancient Ones, they both saw mandrill, looking on broken coconut shell. “I didn’t break our pact!”

“Not literally.” Agreed Tarki. “But you again are stepping on the edge of law. Please, stop that.”

“Soon, I will.” Assured Mufasa with proud smile. “Soon, this all will be over.”

Tarki froze him with his acute, green eyes.

“I hope for... Because if someone die because of your game, I will let Scar to do his turn. And I see, you don’t want of that.”

Dead king shook his head and replied, faking calmness.

“It all will work. No one will die. Peace will be restored.”

“You said.” Muttered starcub. “I hope your word is so valuable, as your brother’s.” then he disappeared in evening’s air.

12 – Friends and foes

When Amini awoke, he was laying still for few minutes, just to gaze at Zira, sleeping in his hug. But queen awoke too, when sun came out from behind cliff of Border River. She opened her eyes, saw Amini, then narrowed her eyes, recalling, what had happened previous night. But after while she smiled.

“Good morning, my queen.” greeted her lion.

“I’m afraid that is not morning anymore.” Noticed Zira with laughter. “But quite nice anyway.”

Amini gentle toughed Zira check with his nose and licked her face. She surrendered to this caress, but when he finished, she whispered.

“Right, enough. Today, we’ve got work to do.”

Lions stood and started in Golden Hall’s direction. After short walk, they saw pride’s keep at silence. All was running without any command, because everybody knows what to do. Four lionesses, fighters for that day’s expedition, were probably still sleeping inside of mound. Two other, Anga and Ndugu, too wounded to fight, were just returning with part of prey. Two remaining pridesisters, that Zira hadn’t allowed to attack Priderock, were probably hunting somewhere farer. Daki and Laki were lying before Golden Hall’s entrance and Vitani and Nuka were trying to wake them up. To no purpose.

“Sir, wake up!” yelled Vitani. “I want go swim and mommy is not here.”

“I don’t know, boss.” Replied sleeping lion. “Maybe Laki ate it.”

Twin even in slumber were talking together.

“It’s not me!” murmured Laki, nudging by Nuka. “Some vultures, I guess.”

“It’s useless.” Judged Nuka. “We must wait for mom.”

Zira went to her cubs and gave them lick for a greeting.

“I’m here, my dears.” She looked on her daughter, trying to open Daki’s jaw and grab his tongue. “Vitani, stop this!” cub left lion’s head and rouge smiled with relief. Still sleeping, of course.

“Great team work.” Judged Amini. “Whole pride took your advises seriously...”

“Mom, we want to go to river.” Demanded Nuka.

“I’m afraid, not today.” Replied Zira. “Today is very special day... We will go for Yakta!”

Cubs looked on each other, then turned again to mother.

“Yuppi!” called siblings.

“But you will stay here!” added instantly queen.

“E...” murmured Nuka with discontent.

“Someone must guard your keep, while we will be on trip.” Said Amini. “Someone brave and smart.”

Nuka nodded, but he seemed be not fully convinced. He took sister and they started to play in catching termites from living colony on mound nearby. Amini came to Daki and wake him in only sure method – he stomped on his tail.

“AW!” screamed lion. “And what for that was?”

“Sorry.” Replied blackmaned. “But I’m looking for boss. Where he went?”

“With Doria.” informed him twin. “I have no idea where.”

“Right... he will be back soon, I hope. And you?” asked with curious voice. “Why don’t you want to help in hunting?”

“Get of me.” Murmured twin and in next second he was sleeping again.

Zira laughed and nudged Amini in side.

“Come on, he looks, like hasn’t sleep this night too.” She yawned. “I said <too>. I mean, that we should rest, until we can.” They went inside Golden Hall.

On hill nearby was laying pair of lions and talking with tensed voice. At least, her voice was unrest. Doria was looking on her new mate with inquiring stare.

“I hope you know, what this means. You have to take responsibility!”

“Cool.” Muttered Horen. “But I haven’t ordered any <responsibly> to this meal...”

*

Day on Priderock passed in merry atmosphere. Once again, hunt was successful and pride feasted on royal meal. After dinner, most of pride laid to afternoon nap, only Kilia was playing with her daughter. But small Hawaa was probably only sad member of pride.

“Mom... I don’t want to do it again.” Said, when they finished to scare of quails from savannah’s clearing.

“So... what do you want to play now?” asked lioness.

Cub sat on the ground and look on her mother with serious stare.

“Mom, we must talk, heart to heart.” She whispered. Kilia narrowed eyes in surprise.

“What happened, my dear?”

“Mom... why don’t you like Golden Lioness.” This question amazed lioness even more.

“I don’t now what you mean. Those outsiders are our enemy now.” Replied and Hawaa turned her stare to the ground.

“But... week ago, they were friends.” Noticed with sad voice.

“No, you don’t understand.” Said Kilia. “They were always hostile, but... we have no chance to deal with them. When Simba returned...”

“Mom!” exclaimed Hawaa “This exchange I real bad. We have only one mister Simba for all Golden Ones.”

“Simba is our king!” said lioness hardly. “Remember that. I don’t want to back in this stupid discussions about Scar and Zira. Got it?”

“Don’t be angry, mommy.” Sobbed cub. “I just... want, that we are together again.”

“Let go back.” Said Kilia with fatigued voice. “You are unbearable today.”

So they returned to silent Priderock. Meanwhile, on Outlands the real day has just began.

*

“Mom, please: be careful!” asked Nuka, when Zira was checking her small army. “You will be back tomorrow, right?”

“Of course, my dear. And we’ll bring Shakisa and Yakta with us.” She noticed, that heavy wounded Anga was trying to join the team. “I said: no!” she shouted, but in next second she calmed down. “Forgive, my friend, but not this time. You must recover.”

Older lioness went out with heavy heart. Four lioness was looking on theirs queen with respect but also with anxiety. This expedition was something crazy, even with support of rouges.

“Mom, please, try to bring Hawaa here!” begged cub. “I’m sure, he is all the heart with us... just her mother...”

“So, do you want to separate her from her mother?” asked Zira with surprise.

“Well...” replied Nuka. “If you bring Hawaa her, her mother would have to came here to. And we would convince her, that Simba is evil. How do you think.”

Queen closed her eyes and recalled night of Scar’s death. She was boiling inside from anger and sorrow. She was ready to kill every single lion from Priderock, but not only because of her revenge. She wanted to make sure, that common fate would never hit anyone else. Pridelanders were dangerous, maybe not evil, but hurting others. Mercy is a luxury for safe ones. Zira and her pride weren’t save. They had only drastic methods to provide themselves peace: full scale war. And that day was about to begin. But Nuka’s sympathy... “We can’t become like they are.” Thought Zira. “If I have chance, I will propose Kilia surrender. Only that I can do.”

“We will try.” She assured her son.

Nuka went to Amini and cuddled to his paw. Lion raised him and placed on his mane, so cub could hug him.

“Amini, please... Watch our mother.” He whispered. “Bring her back, as soon, as possible.”

“That is my duty, Nuka. I won’t fail you.” He promised and put cub down on the ground. “Be brave. Your father is watching from the sky.” Added with some unnatural voice.

“Mom... could we wait on river bank?” asked Vitani.

Zira looked on her with sad stare.

“No, better...”

“Zira, we won’t stand here.” Said Anga honestly. “We are with you with all our hearts, but we want to be closer anyway.” She noticed uncertain face of queen. “We will watch your cubs.”

“Hm... all right!” agreed Zira. “So, take Vitani and we are going to river. Follow me!” she ordered, but then she discovered, that serious part of her division is absent. “Where is Horen?” she surprise. “Where are twins?”

“Don’t worry!” replied Amini. “They are... somewhere there.” He pointed hill’s top. “They will catch us on a way.” He inhaled deeply and called. “Guys! It’s time to go!”

“We will meet on the beach.” Answered Horen, sitting on height nearby.

Twins were looking on him with amaze in theirs stares. Yes, this was shocking decision, but necessary. Horen had no doubts on it.

“Guys, understand it!” he repeated. “We are just a cannon fodder! They want us only to fight!”

“But... we can’t just leave like that!” exclaimed Laki.

“Hush! They will hear!” gasped Horen.

“Right. Sorry.” Muttered Laki. “But we just can’t!” he repeated quieter.

“Yes, we could. Just let go.” Disagreed leader.

“I promised Vii...” added Daki.

“What did you promise?” asked Horen.

“What I will save Shakisa. She is her friend... so...”

“Lionesses fooled you!” gasped Horen. “Shakisa, lioness that I have never seen, is probably dead right now. So what in this case?”

“Boss?” asked Laki, staring on redmaned. “What happened? Yesterday you was determined to stay here.”

“You don’t understand!” said Horen with unnatural voice. “Think for a while! We are only doing a favour to Amini. When we will leave, he will became real king...”

“Or he die in battle.” Noticed Daki.

“He won’t, because there will be no battle!” gasped redmaned. “When they see, we are gone, they won’t attack... unless they are completely idiots, right?”

“Actually, you said that Amini is an idiot, because he felt in love with Zira.” Reminded Laki and Horen shook his mane in gesture of hopelessness.

“Boss... something happened, that you decided to leave Doria.” Said Daki with firm voice. “We want to know, what.”

Horen was silent for a while, looking on his teammates. He opened his jaw and closed it right after, don’t knowing, what to say. Finally, he made a deep breath and said with grave voice.

“That time is now?”

“Early evening.” Said Laki.

“What season?”

“Early rainy season.” Said Daki.

“When lionesses are in heat, most likely?” asked and seeing amaze and fear on faces of friends, added. “Yes, now. I had no idea about that before. Don’t look on me like that! I have never be with lioness before...” and they hadn’t too. Consciousness, what really happened night before hit them hard. “And Doria hasn’t known too! We were told... by other lionesses... just today’s morning. I can’t be a father! I have no idea about that!”

“Boss...” muttered Daki. “There is problem... Last night... I was with Vii...”

“...and I was with Thela. Is this means, that...”

Horen smiled with bitter smile.

“So, now maybe you reconsider idea of leaving.”

Twins were shocked.

“But...” yelled Laki. “Leave Thela...”

“...and Vii...” added Daki.

“...with cubs? Our cubs?!”

Horen clutched his fists and hit into surface of rock. He pointed his stare in twins and said slowly and clearly.

“We can’t be good fathers. We are just rouges... outsiders. We were banished, because we wasn’t fitting to our prides. And we won’t fit anyone. Only Amini have this gift to bound with this pride. He will be a king... and he will be caretaker of your cubs. We can’t do that. This is not in our nature.”

“But it was in my nature to seduce Vii.” Noticed Daki with shame.

“Leave Amini with Zira.” Said Horen with persuading voice. “This is the best thing, we can do...”

“But we have to help him to become a king.” Noticed Laki.

“We have to do noting!” exclaimed leader but he saw in twins eyes determination. “You promised to save Shakisa and her cub, right? We will do it... and depart right after.”

“If you say...” started Laki.

“This is the best way.” Assured Horen, looking in eyes of lion. “Amini will thank us!”

“Hey, guys!” called Amini from path below. “Are you coming?”

“Yes. We’ll be there in minute.” Replied Horen and started to go downhill.

Twins uncertainly followed him.

*

Priderock was slowly falling asleep. Only three lionesses were waiting outside, on main ledge. It was trio, who was practically ruling the pride from behind Simba: queen-mother, queen’s mother and queen herself. They were once again, talking about Golden’s threat. Because none of Golden Ones had been seen in previous few days, this menace became less real, but although... or better to say: because of that, even more scary.

“I don’t like it.” Said Sarafina, looking in evening savannah. “We have seen no trace for them in last days. It’s impossible, that group of this size could move unseen. Where they could hide?”

“Why do you assume, that they stayed, mom?” asked Nala. “Zira’s pride came from desert... they have some base there... Called <Golden Sands> I guess... Maybe, they returned there?”

Sarabi shook her head and replied.

“No, it’s not likely. I remember day, they came here. They were exhausted and dying after extremely hard journey. Even if they plan to return, they must prepare for that... But I can’t imagine such a way with cubs. And...” she looked on grassy plain, recovering fast after drought. “Those Golden Sands were heavy devastated by climate. I doubt, if they recover so fast as our land. We have unusual luck, that Prideland is still able to live here.”

“Or, it was Scar’s merit.” Thought Nala, but she quickly repressed that idea. No, Scar was evil, so he was bad ruler. “So why do you miss him so much?” asked some voice in her head, but she ignored it.

“Anyway.” Said queen. “We must convince Simba to send a reconnaissance on northern bank of the Border River. If there is even a little possibility, that they hid there, we must check it.” Two lioness looked on younger one with inquiring stare, so she replied. “Of course, I will advise it to him, but you must support me. Sarabi, Simba is sure of your wisdom and will follow every your instruction.”

“I don’t like such a situation.” Confessed Sarabi. “We are guiding king like tiny cub. It should be just opposite.”

“And it was.” said voice in Nala’s head. “Not so long ago. When Scar was treating his subjects as children. Right?” Queen shook her head, to rid of those thoughts and replied to queen-mother.

“And it will change, as soon as we handle with those outcasts. When there will be no threat of war, Simba will rule in peace. We just have to... neutralize Zira and her followers.”

Sarafina yawned loudly and looked on daughter and friend.

“Great, we will do it. But not tonight.” Said with sleepy voice. “Tomorrow, we will talk with Simba. And in general, there is no hurry. They should be hurry. We are in safe place with much food available. If Zira is on Outlands, hunger will drive her of this wasteland.”

“You right...” agreed Sarabi. “We can rest.” She stood and added with weary voice. “Good night.” She went to main cave and other lioness followed her shortly after. Hawaa could sigh with relief. They hadn’t spotted her.

Cub was all this time laying still on rock, just next to entrance. Her grey fur masked her almost perfectly and unusual calmness (as her age), allowed her to remain unseen. Some time earlier, she sneaked from mother’s hug and followed Sarabi, going out from sleeping chamber. Hawaa already had noticed, that mother of Simba was especially ill-disposed towards aunt Zira and Golden Ones. So she had to be watched. Cub heard every single word of lionesses talk and she was terrified. They were planning to kill aunt Zira and Nuka! This was much to much for tiny cub. Hawaa wanted to cry, but she knew that tears wouldn’t help anyone. She considered about waking up her mother and asking her for help. But mother was so angry on Golden Ones like queen-mother. And Simba... Hawaa was too scared to even speak with the new king and also she had no illusions about him. He would have believed to lies, that Sarabi, Sarafina and Nala told him. One, small Hawaa wasn’t able to convince him, his was wrong. There was only one thing left to do.

“Mommy, please, forgive me.” Whispered Hawaa, looking on darkness in cave. “But I fell, you are wrong. I love you, but I can’t let you hurt my friends.” She turned away and started to path downhill.

She was determined to reach so called <Border River> and then to find Zira and her pride. They had to be warned, that Pridelanders were up to attack them. Cub had no idea, how she could pass the river but wasn’t matter. She never have seen actually river, so she wasn’t scared. She was sure, that Golden Ones were on north. Why? She wasn’t sure of that, but some silent voice seemed to whisper in her ear.

Hawaa started to walk thought wet savannah. On her short legs that were more like constant jumping, because she was in hurry. After short time, her legs started to hurt, but she just narrowed her eyes and ignored it. She had a quest and she wanted to fulfil it, don’t matter what.

*

Kilia awoke because of bad dream. This was really creepy and crazy dream.

She was dreaming about recent past, a times of drought. She was dying from hunger, laying on Priderock’s ledge. Suddenly, team of golden huntresses returned with heavy portion of meat. Lioness raised her head, hoping, that they give her some. But Golden Ones, led by Zira, started to eat they prey alone. Kilia smelled delicious smell of fresh meat and cried from hunger.

“Zira... help me!” she yelled.

“You banished Shakisa!” replied Golden Queen with cold voice. Shakisa was already exiled? Well, in this strange dream, maybe.

“It was Nala’s idea!” squeaked hungry lioness. “Please, give me some.”

“Murderer!” shouted another Golden One. Vii? Doria? Kilia wasn’t sure.

“What happened?” asked Scar, who just went out from the royal cave. “Zira, my dear, this lioness looks ill!”

“I don’t know, my love.” Replied Zira and swallowed giant portion of meat. Kilia sobbed.

“My king... I’m so hungry! Please... fed me!”

Scar went closer to lying lioness and looked on her with careful, curious stare. In his eyes, Kilia noticed real concern and sympathy. She felt, she loved her king with all heart. Lion turned to his mate.

“Zira, she is dying from hunger! Give her some meat, now!” said with calm but wilful voice. Queen bowed her head and replied.

“Yes, my lord.” She and other lionesses dragged carcass (it was so heavy) to Kilia. Lioness, sobbing, bit her first portion and swallowed it quickly. Meat was delicious, but this taste was a little... strange.

“Do you like it?” asked Scar with gentle voice. “You deserved for the lion’s share.”

Then Kilia discovered, what she was eating. Carcass before her changed to motionless and partially devoured body of Simba. Lioness froze in panic.

“My dear...” said king. “I’m sorry for that taste. Simba was young... and you know... that insect diet... Mufasa was much better, but we have eaten him yesterday.”

Kilia awoke covered with cold sweat. She raised her head and looked on king, sleeping on royal bed with Nala. Silent, motionless, but for sure alive. She sighed with relief and harder cuddled... cuddled... cuddled...

“Sarafina?” asked Kilia in silence of cave.

“Yes?” replied lioness with sleepy voice.

“Is Hawaa with you?” asked Kilia with anxiety.

“Yes... that mean: no.” answered queen’s mother. “Why do you ask?”

Kilia’s hear froze. She stood immediately and looked on darkened chamber. Everyone was in place, but lioness was looking for her cub, sleeping with other pridemamber. But there was no cub in whole chamber. Terror of recent dream was replaced by new one.

“Hawaa is gone!” whispered shocked lioness. “Saffy, she is not here...”

In that moment, to cave flew Zazu, speeding with incredible speed. He almost hit in back wall but in last moment, he stopped and landed awkwardly next to royal bed. He was panting, for a while, unable to say a word. Finally, he screamed in panic.

“We are attacked!”

Shout of hornbill broke sleepy silence and awoke most of lioness at once. They raised theirs heads and looked on king’s majordomo.

“Simba, Zira is coming!” called Zazu and felt on rock, exhausted.

“Great!” muttered Simba. “But make an appointment for audience on tomorrow’s midday... WHAT?!” he opened his eyes and looked on bird, shocked.

“Group of invaders, sir!” panted hornbill. “I see at least six of them, but it could be just one division. They are heading here from the river.”

Simba immediately stood and roared. For that kind of impulse, all pride awoke. Lionesses stood as well and looked on their king.

“They are back!” said Simba with calm voice. But careful beholder could notice, that he was shaking on his body. He was totally surprised. “We will stop them on Northern Path, away from Priderock. All are going with me. Only...” he was thinking a while, that looked on queen’s mother. “Sarafina stays with Kilia and her cub.”

Before Sarafina or Kilia managed to say, there is no cub, rest of the pride ran out from cave.

*

Kilia was so scared, but also so excited, that she was speeding across the plain, aside any path. She was also so concentrated on running faster and jumping higher, that she just missed running group of lions, that passed her about hundred meters on west.

Zira was leading her army in hurry. Pridelanders were alarmed by this bloody hornbill, so there was no time. They couldn’t let Simba to prepare defence.

“As we fixed!” she called to Horen, Daki and Laki. “We will distract them and draw from Priderock.”

The rescue team departed from main strike force.

13 – Baptism of fire

Of course, it could be coincidence that Kovu was not there. He had been planning this trip to the mountains long before. And in fact, Zira ordered it, for prove his strength and endurance. But why he departed just that night? Well, answer on this questions could be found on the sky.

“Right, my friend... You are going well.” Was whispering evening wind, when Kovu was ascending on western slope of Dark Mountain. “Don’t look back, just go ahead.”

But winds don’t talk. At least, not ordinary winds. However those caused by King of the Past could. Mufasa was blowing into lion’s ears with gentle but decisive message: Up! Ahead! Not to look back! Zira’s son was drawing away from his pride with success. Dead king, who couldn’t show to living lion, was using long taught whisper of wind to direct Kovu. Thanks to this, Outlanders were weaken.

Kovu sat down to rest for a while and turned his eyes on home below him. Mufasa was prepared for that and pushed light clouds to dimmed view of southern area and blackmaned lion saw only his land, to the river. He didn’t notice twelve silhouettes, slowly and silently entering to water. He just stood and started again, on east, away from his attacked pride.

Mufasa smiled and blow some whispering winds again. But then some shadow covered the sky. Kovu didn’t notice this, because he cannot to. This was a shadow of lion’s ghost – blackmaned just like young lion on the slope.

“You have broken the pact!” called Amini to Mufasa.

“Good! Ahead... WHAT?!” amazed dead king and turned his head to newcomer. “And who are you?” examined stranger with heavy stare. “You are not any of kings I know.”

“That is not odd.” Replied Amini with anger in his voice. “I hang in rather exclusive company.”

Mufasa smiled, hearing hard reply of lion, but he was still thinking, on whom he was looking.

“I know you... I saw you...” muttered king.

“Think!” gasped Amini. “Whom I remind you?” he stepped closer to Mufasa. They both were floating just over marching Kovu.

“Kovu...” whispered king. “But it’s... You are Kovu’s father!”

“Point for you.” Said Amini with cold voice. “Now, another question: Why did you send him here?”

Mufasa giggled with malicious laughter.

“This is question for you, I think.” And he added with certain voice. “And I haven’t broken the pact with Tarki and Scar. After what happened last time, I interfered, they dictated very hard conditions. They thought about all... almost all.” He smiled again, proud of his plan. Maybe we was dead almost since seven years, but for the first time he had chance to outwit his brother. This was delicious taste of victory and Mufasa wanted to show his clever. “We established that no Ancient could speak with living one and no Ancient could physically interfere in world below. But I’m not doing that. I just... blowing with the wind... I’m the spirit of the wind...” he finished with playful voice.

He knew, that his and his father’s plan was going to be revealed, but it was meant to work that night. Zira should be killed, Golden Pride should surrender to Pridelanders and Kovu, who couldn’t help his kins in fight, should returned to Outlands and find new order already established. He would soon accept his situation and being convince by Simba’s pride. Then, his marriage with Kiara would end all war and hostility... So Mufasa and Ahadi would be free from guarding their pride. And Scar would be free too. Maybe, not in way he considered as right, but it wasn’t matter. “I do it for you, brother.” Thought Mufasa. “Soon, all reasons of hatred between us will disappear.”

“Tarki will get know about this.” Gasped Amini. “O!” thought surprised Mufasa. „My uncle’s friend? How...” But Amini continued. “Now, turn him back.”

“Do it yourself... If you can.” Smiled dead king. “You are neither Scar nor my uncle. You are free to speak with him. Just try...”

This was unfair. Amini had no skills to speak with living ones. He was strongly connected with his beloved son, but this kind of connection was to tight to allow normal contact. It was... just like Scar and Zira – too close to communicate.

“No, you do it!” yelled Amini. “He must return to Outlands. He must see with Kiara! It’s last chance to stop the war...” he noticed smile on Mufasa’s face. “...but you are waiting on the war! You wanted it all the time.” Shouted with anger.

“No.” Mufasa shook his head. “I must just correct, what Simba failed three years ago. To eliminate Zira. Only then my plan could...” dead king noticed expression of rage on Amini’s face. “But... you are that lion, who saved Zira then...” whispered amazed.

And Amini ran down to rocky path and stood before Kovu.

“As your father, I command you go back!” said with wilful voice. “Your mother is in danger!”

Blackmaned lion stopped and turned back, with confused stare. He thought, he forgot about something. But what? He promised Vitani to practise wrestling? No, it was something more important. Hawaa... yes, Hawaa said something, that he had an eye on Nuka because...

“Just go!” growled Amini. “Don’t think, just go! You mother is in danger!”

“Mommy!” whispered Kovu, although he had no idea why. He felt sudden fear in his heart, like Zira was calling him. He turned back and started to descend from the slope. But there was a long way before him.

“Goody!” gasped Mufasa. “But you can’t help him there. And I know some ways to support my kins... without breaking the pact.”

Amini looked on him with anger, but then he smiled, showing his teethes.

“Maybe, but you won’t get there!”

He pounced on star body of dead king and pinned him to the ground. Ghost couldn’t kill or even hurt ghost... but good hold of one dead could stop another dead one. Mufasa was laying immobilized by blackmaned lion.

“What are you doing?!” called dead king. “We are both dead! You can’t kill me!”

“Probably I can’t.” agreed Amini. “But I was wondering thought whole my afterlife... does it hurt?” asked with curious voice and slashed Mufasa’s face with extended claws.

Lion’s ghosts started to fight bloodless fight, but Kovu was still descending from the slope in Outlands direction.

*

Vitani was sleepy and bored. There was cold and wet, so she wished only to get back in Golden Hall and go to sleep. But Nuka was unbearable. He was insisting her so strong that she had agreed to follow him. She had had been to sleepy, to understood what she was accepting. But there was too late. They were laying on cliff above river bank, completely pointless. Her brother was obviously waiting for something.

“Nuka, how long?” asked with weary voice.

“Just a minute...” answered her brother. “I must be sure that are they.”

“What <they>?” asked Vitani with some surprise. Her brother was gazing on river with focused stare.

“Well... Simba and his sidekicks.” Answered honestly. “I think, he will go with almost full pride, but on that kind of terrain he will be hopeless...”

Vitani burst in loud laughter. Yes, Nuka had unbelievable sense of humour. His jokes were unexpected and shocking, and always original...

“Hush!” gasped lion. “They would hear us!”

Lioness froze, seeing Nuka wasn’t laughing. He was so serous, like he hadn’t since long time.

“That is not a yoke?” whispered Vitani, feeling cold on her back. Nuka turned to her with proud expression on his face.

“Of course, not!” replied. “I made Simba believe that hyenas, who had settled on Elephant Graveyard, are stealing Pridelander’s food. So he sent team to rid them of... Ow, look!” he pointed on other bank. “There they are. They will go through Elephant Ford. On our bank will be so vulnerable on your attacks as never. Just leave Simba to me and...”

Vitani was listening to him with opened jaw and terrified stare. Her brother just created an opportunity to win this war in one battle... but it was so bold as risky.

“You are mad!” yelled.

“Don’t say that about future king of Prideland!” smiled Nuka. “And that is right time for you to go for mother and lionesses. Just don’t attack before Simba enters Graveyard Gorge. And... if mommy is uncertain, don’t attack at all. Just draw theirs attention, until I do my job...”

Vitani couldn’t reply on this. She turned back and started with full speed in Golden Hall’s direction.

“Hunt me down!” exclaimed Tarki, when Nuka ran towards Elephant Graveyard. “This boy is a genius! He really could kill Simba tonight!”

But Scar grabbed him in paws and raised up. He looked in his uncle’s face and gasped with freezing voice.

“Stop it!”

“Put me down, Scar!” dead king calmed down put starcub on unseen floor. “You have messed my mane!” muttered Tarki, combing fur on head. For sure, it couldn’t be called <mane>. “Easy, we can’t interfere.”

“But I fell that someone do interfere in this... Now! Mufasa is behind this!” called dead king. “He broke our pact!”

“Maybe.” Agreed greeneyed cub. “So we are waiting to get proof of this. And if we do, there will come our turn...”

“But they could die here!” yelled Scar. “I can’t allow to that!”

He stood in place, uncertain, what to do. He wanted to follow Nuka... and to follow Vitani. And also, he wanted to stay in place, for observing attackers. But he was jus one.

“Help me!” begged his uncle.

“Scar, we can’t do anything!” repeated Tarki. “And that would be best, just watch. Nuka has great chances to kill Simba... His trap is almost perfect...” he looked on nephew with playful stare. “Much better that your was once... And Outlands are safe, because Pridelanders won’t decide on strike to unknown area. There all advantages of Golden Pride could be used. If Pridelanders attack, there would be suicide!”

“Nuka is in danger!”

“I think, Simba is in greater.” Replied starcub and laughed aloud. But then he stopped and took a look around. “Scar, I know, that you talked with Amini and Sparthi.” Said and dead king turned his stare into the ground. “Don’t worry that was smart turn. You haven’t broken the pact... And I know, that they are helping you to guard your beloved. Good. But... I can see Sparthi’s aura, he is watching sleep of Zira. But where is Amini?”

Scar sighed with relief, hearing that his plan wasn’t banned by uncle. He replied.
”With Kovu.”

“But I can’t see him... So if he is with Kovu, Kovu is not here. A coincidence?”

They looked on each other, knowing, that in skyworld coincidences doesn’t exist. There only signs.

“You are right.” Agreed Tarki. “We’ve got problem.”

*

Simba touched northern bank as one of the last. Stronger and heavier than females he was poor swimmer. Nala helped him to get on bank and he stood in centre of lionesses circle. He whispered carefully.

“Better be quick.” He took a look on east. “Outlanders could be alarmed. We can’t risk fight on their territory.”

He started on west to outset of graveyard gorge. Lionesses aligned to tight formation after him and followed. In bright light of the full moon, path parallel to river was seen clearly, so Pridelanders were going fast. Right after Simba were going Sarafina and Sarabi. Older lionesses have bunted senses, because of age, so they are carefully looking on the ground.

“Sarabi...” whispered Sarafina. “Don’t you think that is strange?”

“Hm?” surprised queen-mother.

“I mean this path.” Explained queen’s mother. “If whole clan of hyenas is dwelling here, shouldn’t this track to be... used more often?”

On path beneath theirs paw there were almost no traces of any activity. Just few pawprints... clearly too big for hyena.

“Tanabi would know, whose are those.” Muttered Sarabi. “But it’s good that he and Kiara stayed under protection of Sakia.”

They saw walls of Elephant Graveyard’s gorge. It was dark, motionless and enlighten by moon and glare by yellow green light of small volcanic vents. This place seemed by creepy, but no hyena was seen nearby.

“So we are in place.” Said Nala, taking a look around. “But I can’t see any of this scavengers...”

“No tracks, no pawprints...” added Sarafina. “I don’t like this.”

Simba, although felt quite uncertain, laughed firmly (or, at least: trying to sound firmly) and stepped into gorge. He looked on remote place, looking for enemies. But when he found no one, he turned to his pride and said.

“Well... maybe we were wrong. I can’t see any hyena here... and I doubt, that they could live here, don’t leaving any mark of it. I will just... take a look around. Wait for me here.”

Lioness looked on themselves uncertainly.

“We won’t we all go with you?” asked Nala.

“I don’t need any babysitting.” Gasped king and added louder. “Stay here and watch my back. Some outlanders could come here.” Then he entered cemetery’s gorge.

*

Way from Elephant Ford was much longer that from North one. Vitani was speeding with all her might, but she knew, that she would bring pride in hour, no less. That was a lot of time for Nuka, to do his plan... but lioness wasn’t sure, if she wanted him to execute it. This was crazy! If mother considered, that decoying Pridelanders on north side was good idea, she would had done that. Vitani was full of worst predictions, mostly, because she knew, that Nuka was acting not in cold calculation, but in emotion. His envy for Kovu and his mission had blinded him, so he found ad hoc his own plan of defeating Simba. Such instant planes usually ended in two ways: with total victory or complete disaster.

“And this is my fault too.” She thought. “I should have noticed it earlier and told mother...”

Then she noticed lion’s silhouette, running on rock. In first motion, she extended her claws and prepared to attack, but then she understood, she didn’t see Pridelander... But Hawaa, speeding in Elephant Graveyard’s direction.

“Vitani!” panted terrified lioness. “I have overslept! I lost Nuka! He is in danger, we must find him!” Vitani stooped before exhausted friend and replied.

“He is on graveyard... Decoying Simba in...” then she understood, that Hawaa might know more than she. “Do you know, what is going on? Nuka bring here all Simba’s pride! We are attacked.”

“Damn!” yelled lioness. “We are too late... Just alarm Zira and I will go for Nuka...”

Scar’s daughter wanted to ask her about hundred, but time was short. She just started again to crazy run, leaving shocked friend behind. She was speeding on rocky track, slowly recovering her calmness. She understood, that Nuka’s plan really could bring them victory in one, fatal blow. There were just two conditions – her brother would actually kill Simba and Outlanders would strike before Pridelanders retreat. Hard. But possible.

And Hawaa was running with screaming fear in her heart. In that moment she didn’t care for fate of war, because she was only concerned with Nuka. Her bellowed was going to challenge mighty lion king. “Scar, your son is in danger!” whispered. “Give him your might!”

*

“No way!” forbid Tarki. “Mufasa haven’t done anything banned.”

“So, what we should do?” asked Scar, thinking heavily. Situation got out of hand and dead king felt hopeless. Any kind of support for his mate, children or pride would caused reaction of his brother. And maybe that was exactly, what Mufasa was hoping for. He knew what was going on and he had clearly easier to help his kins.

“We should hope in wisdom of those down there.” Judged starcub. “Just stay with your daughter and do nothing stupid and I will watch over Nuka, right?”

“Right!” agreed Scar and followed running Vitani.

*

Nuka wasn’t terrified anymore, although he should to. He was speeding on graveyard’s valley cliff, watching Simba, walking beneath him. Strong lion was stepping carefully, with more and more clear fear. That view gave Scar’s son strength.

“Are we scared, usurper?” smiled Nuka and pushed some small rock with paw. They felt into gorge, causing loud sound. Simba froze and gave quickly look around in nearly panic. “You are looking for enemy...” whispered Outlander. “You are your own enemy. Your pride makes you acting recklessly. Don’t you mind, if I use that... and kill you?” he burst in loud laughter, that sounded with echo in valley. Simba jumped in place and ran to rock wall. He stood with back on rock and was looking for any danger. But after few seconds, he calmed down. This laughter sounded like hyena’s.

“Just weak, stupid scavenger!” muttered king. “I will handle with them myself.”

He slowly entered deeper part of gorge, where heavy clouds of yellow smoke were floating. Earth were uneasy, letting time to time some fiery breath. Simba felt that those miasmas were tweaking him in eyes. He worn his face with paw and found that he was crying from smoke-blindness. “How those hyenas could live here?” wondered and stepped further. And Nuka was already waiting.

[“Time has come” song. Tune triumphal and march-like. Something between “Be prepared” and “My lullaby” with drum’s military beat.]

[Nuka is descending into gorge, in clouds of yellow, volcanic smoke. He is running firmly and Simba is straying, blinded by smoke. King almost falls into lava went, but he stops in last moment.]

What a strange, unusual view

Doesn’t it make you remind?

I’m on top like king to you

And you’re straying like a blind

[Nuka is standing on ledge just above Simba and he is waiting for king to come closer in range of pounce.]

Irony? I have on mind

That once you left a cub to die

Blind and hopeless and exiled

Do you remember? That was I!

[On word <I> he hits with paw in own chest. Then he lowers his head to Simba and extending paw of claws.]

You have stolen me my shining life

Killed my father and hurt mother’s soul

Sentenced my siblings to endless fight

And took out my king’s title as own

[He slashes king in head. On Simba’s forehead we can see four cuts from Nuka’s claws. King lays down in panic, blinded and disoriented. Nuka judges, he won’t get him from his place, so he started to descending on rock cliff. His eyes, accustomed to smoke, see path clearly, but Simba is still straying with closed eyes. He goes in random direction, only by coincidence, avoiding falling to vents.]

Chorus:

But it will end tonight! (echo: end tonight! end tonight!)

But it will come to past! (come to past! come to past!)

But it’ll cease with this fight! (with this fight! with this fight!)

And get calm down at last! (down at last! down at last!)

[Nuka stops in half way down and sing so loud, that echo responds to him. Simba seems to hear nothing, he is so shocked and confused by the smoke. He coughs and walk ahead.]

And with your final breath (final breath, final breath)

All the harms be undone (be undone, be undone)

There’s no other ways left! (no ways left, no ways left)

‘Cause simply now your time has come!

[On words <no others ways left> Simba discovers that he is on ledge over lava and before him is only and burning abyss.]

Second verse:

So atone all your crimes

Dying here, dying now

Leave the kingdom that once

You have stolen somehow

[Nuka is closing to him with angry stare, surrounded by clouds of smoke. Just like Scar in beginning of Be prepared song.]

Cause my days now begin

To be you in reverse

Fight old laws and to win

Break your murderer’s curse!

[He hits Simba with claws without any problem. Stronger lion doesn’t block a blow, because he doesn’t see anything and he is too scared of falling to make any dodge.]

You have broken what was right and great

Now I’ll show you what real king should be

Now I’ll show you how love what you hate

Now I’ll show you the monarch in me!

[Nuka inflicts another hit and smoke cloud above him forms into shape of Priderock in flames, just like at end of Lion King. Nuka raises his paw to another blow and dispels part of this cloud. It looks, like he has extinguished the flames.]

Chorus:

But it will start tonight! (echo: start tonight! start tonight!)

But it will bring new day! (bring new day! bring new day!)

But it’ll rise with this fight! (with this fight! with this fight!)

With all words that I say. (that I say. that I say)

[Simba unwillingly steps back on edge of ledge and rock beneath his paws starts to break.]

And with my mighty roar (mighty roar, mighty roar)

All the changes are done (all are done, all are done)

There just one way for (one way for, one way for)

‘Cause simply now my time has come!

Time has come!

[Simba understands, what is happening, opens crying eyes and looks on Nuka, ready to inflict final blow. Face of the king becomes similar to terrified Mufasa, when he was throwing down by Scar.]

[Capture of breaking rock ledge with Simba’s legs on it. Music is cut in half of timing-bar. Sudden cut to black.]