Good evening. Please forgive typos, review, and enjoy. Lotta dream sequences in this chapter. And a lot of OCs(But if you read Pangs and Fangs, you should be fine.) Not gonna list the OCs of this chapter. Don't wanna ruin the surprise. ;)
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The Season of Visitors
Rafiki opened one eye and awoke slowly. Soemthing was coming. The young baboon could feel it. Rafiki quickly climbed to the top of his tree and placed his hand over his forhead to better observe the Pride Lands. Something caught Rafiki's attention; lions. And a great number of them, at that. Rafiki was worried at first, but calmed down as he noticed the pink moon in the sky.
"Of course!" Rafiki chuckled, shaking his head, "De Season of Visitors. It is finally here! All doze lions!...I wondah if Haini is among them...We'll have tah wait and see."
Rafiki yawned and climbed to one of the lower branches of his tree to drift back into his slumber.
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Kivuli kicked in his sleep, almost hitting Ed in the face. The hyena pup let out a loud yawn and snored peacefully. But Kivuli's slumber was not so peaceful. The black hyena was tossing and turning, for he was having a powerful dream. And if there was one thing that Kivuli recognized, it was power.
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Kivuli found himself in a large, dark tunnel. This area seemed somewhat familiar to him. Upon further inspection, the black hyena noticed several blood-paintings on the sides of the chamber walls. Kivuli smiled to himself, having realized that he was standing in the Hall of the Mountain King. Suddenly, Kivuli felt himself being pulled deeper into the tunnel. The black hyena shrugged and decided to satisfy his curiosity, venturing into the steamy tunnel. The smell of ashes and blood entered Kivuli's nose. Kivuli smiled widely. He had missed this scent. It filled him with joy. As the black hyena reached the end of the tunnel, he looked around to see what was calling him. In a matter of moments, two spires of flames shot up from the ground, lighting the entire chamber. Kivuli covered his eyes, before looking forward to see a massive elephant skeleton at the back of the cave. The sight of this skeleton to Kivuli by surprise, even if he had stared at it a million times before. For this was the elephant that Kivuli had slayed all on his own. And it was almost the size of three elephants combined.
"Ain't it great?" a voice asked, "It's a shame that the Sheikh took credit for your greatest accomplishment."
Kivuli looked around for the source of the voice. A large red flame shot up from the ground, before being replaced by a muscular wild dog. The wild dog stepped forward and shook sparks from his fur. Kivuli cocked his head.
"Soga?" Kivuli asked, growling slightly, "What are you doing here? I already told you. I'll find Kalab as soon as I've dealed with Ahadi. Stop bothering me!"
Soga rolled his eyes, before turning to Kivuli.
"You know what?" Soga growled, "I don't reallly need your attitude, right now. One minute, I'm minding my own business, expanding the fires of Hell. The next minute, the Great Spirits give me this order to supervise this meeting! Aurgh! And I was having so much fun, too."
Soga sighed and began to whimper. Kivuli cocked his head in confusion.
"What meeting?" Kivuli asked.
Soga quickly shook his head and addressed Kivuli.
"Aparently, you've been angering the Spirits," Soga stated in an annoyed tone, "Three of them are on there way to have a word with you. I'm supposed to stay here and supervise...I'll bet this is just the Great Spirit's way of making me suffer! Those bastards never let me have any fun!"
Kivuli once again cocked his head in confusion.
"Angering the Spirits?" Kivuli queried, "What do you mean, 'Angering the Spirits?'"
"Not my place to tell you," Soga stated, "You'll see. Once those three spirits arrive, that is."
Kivuli paused and placed his paw on his chin. A smile slowly crept across his face.
"So I am to be visited by three spirits?" Kivuli smiled, raising an eyebrow.
Soga nodded. Kivuli snickered quietly, not believing how ridiculous the situation was. He also doubted the originality of it. He had heard a very similar story one winter, when he was a cub in the Bloody Shadows.
"Just great," Kivuli groaned, "Can we just get this over with? I'm getting too old for this kind of shit."
Soga looked over his shoulder, before turning back to Kivuli and smiling. Thw wild dog waved his paw in the air, causing a blue twig and a leaf to appear.
"They'll be here shortly," Soga stated, wrapping the leaf around the twig, "Mind if I smoke?"
Kivuli shook his head. Soga lit the twig with a flame from his paw and placed the twig in his mouth. The wild dog inhaled through one side of his mouth, and blew puffs of smoke out the other. Kivuli stepped a bit closer to Soga, before sitting down once more.
"So..." Kivuli began, "Theses three spirits. Do I know them?"
Soga smiled and nodded, blowing another puff of smoke from his mouth.
"Yeah," Soga nodded, "You might say that...Oh, look. Here they come."
Four orbs of light entered the chamber and floated in mid air. Kivuli stared at them in wonder as they took the form of four hyenas. The first hyena was a male, who was missing bits from his ears. The second hyena was a female who held the third hyena, a black male cub, close to her side. The fourth hyena was another female, but was a lighter shade than the first. Kivuli's eyes widened with shock, for he instantly recognized three of the four hyenas. The fourth hyena leaped forward and pinned Kivuli on the ground, giving him several licks on his cheek.
"Oh, Kivi!" the female hyena exclaimed, "I can't believe you're here! I've missed you so much!"
Kivuli looked up at the female and smiled, tears forming in his eyes.
"B..Bemba," Kivuli breathed happily, pulling Bemba's face close to his to give her a lick on the cheek, "It's been far too long, my love. You're even more beautiful than I remember!"
Bemba smiled at Kivuli and backed away from him, allowing him to roll to his feet. Kivuli looked over at the other three hyenas. The adult male stepped forward and cocked his head.
"What?" the hyena chuckled, "No love for me? Don't tell me that you've forgotten your older brother!"
Kivuli shook his head and ran over to his brother, embracing him tightly.
"Edaha," Kivuli sighed, weeping into his brother's shoulder, "I...I'm sorry. It's my fault. If it wasn't for me...you wouldn't have suffered."
Edaha shook his head and patted Kivuli on the back.
"No," Edaha smiled, "No. It was my pleasure to suffer for you. You're my brother. I'm the one who's sorry. I couldn't protect you from father...By the way, he's burning in Hell, nowadays!"
Kivuli pulled away from his brother and quickly wiped the tears from his eyes.
"Really?" Kivuli asked hopefully, "Do you really mean it?"
Edaha smiled and nodded. Kivuli began to run around in circles and cackle wildly.
"He's getting what he deserves!" Kivuli cried in a sing-song voice, "Life is fair, after all!"
"Ahem," came a voice a few yards away from Kivuli, "Forgetting someone, are we?"
Kivuli stopped running and looked over at the dark female hyena. Kivuli froze, before quickly shaking his head.
"Sauda...I...sorry. I got a bit carried away," Kivuli stated apologetically, "Um...So...how are things?"
Sauda shook her head and walked over to her older brother, wrapping her arms around him.
"Same old Kivuli," Sauda laughed, "Can't help but rejoice at the sound of justice...or suffering, for that matter!"
Kivuli rubbed the back of his neck in embarrassment, before noticing the small black cub that was crouching low to the ground nervously several feet away. Sauda stared at Kivuli in confusion, before looking over at the cub and smiling warmly.
"It's okay, Sweetie," Sauda stated calmly, beckoning the cub over with her paw, "Come. Meet your uncle."
The black cub slowly stepped forward and stared up at Kivuli in wonder. Kivuli stared back at the cub and shook his head with disbelief.
"Sauda," Kivuli gasped, "Why didn't you tell me you had a cub?"
Sauda's ears drooped as she shook her head. Kivuli raised an eyebrow at his sister, before turning his attention back to the black cub. Kivuli lowered his head to the cubs level and smiled.
"Hello there," Kivuli nodded, "I'm your mother's older brother, Kivuli. May I ask your name?"
The black cub looked back at his mother for reassurance. Sauda smiled and nodded. The cub turned its attention back to Kivuli and stood up strait.
"I...I'm Uvuli," the cub stated sheepishly, "I...I'm a really big fan of you, Mr. Kivuli. It's because of you that hyenas like me aren't looked down upon. You made a name for us. Black hyenas, that is."
Kivuli sat down and shook his head with a smile.
"I'm not sure that I deserve that honor, but thanks," Kivuli shrugged, before holding out his paw, "Come on. Let me get a better look at you."
Uvuli laughed and ran forward, embracing his uncle's leg tightly. Kivuli patted his nephew's back while he examined him. Uvuli was actually quite muscular for his age. Kivuli felt proud of that, for a reason unknown to even him. Uvuli let out a yawn and fell asleep in Kivuli's paws.
"Awww!" Bemba smiled, "That's adorable! You're so good with cubs, Kivi."
Kivuli smiled over at his mate and shrugged.
"Yeah," Kivuli chuckled, "I've had a bit of experience!"
Bemba cocked her head in confusion. Kivuli clasped his paws over his snout, realizing the stupid thing that he had just said.
"I mean..." Kivuli stated nervously, "Well, y'know. With Ed."
Bemba smiled and walked up to her mate, brushing against him affectionately.
"And you've been doing a wonderful job, Kivi!" Bemba purred, "And Ed...He's just amazing! I suppose he takes after his father! Oh, I'm so proud of you!"
Kivuli smiled and patted his mate's back while looking over at his brother and sister. It would have been the perfect moment, had it not been interrupted by two pillars of flame shooting into the air.
"Okay, that's enough of this 'warm and fuzzy' garbage!" Soga growled, "You all wanted to give Kivuli a message, didn't you? So do it, already! I got places to be."
Sauda, Bemba, and Edaha all let out a heavy sigh, before nodding and turning to Kivuli.
"Kivuli," Sauda sighed, "We need to talk."
Kivuli cocked his head in confusion.
"Talk?" Kivuli asked, "Talk about what?"
"What you've been planning on doing," Edaha replied.
"It's wrong," Bemba added.
Kivuli's eyes widened.
"What do you mean its wrong?" Kivuli inquired, "I'm going to create a new colony of the Blooody Shadows. What's so wrong about that?"
"Nothing," Edaha shrugged, "That is, nothing except the way you plan on doing it."
Kivuli stared at the three hyenas and cocked his head.
"You cannot kill Ahadi," Sauda explained, "He doesn't deserve to die."
"What?" Kivuli gasped, completely perplexed, "But...Ahadi is the one who killed you!"
"So?" Sauda asked, "Killing him won't solve anything. All it will bring is pain."
Kivuli's jaw dropped, for he could not believe what he was hearing.
"But Sauda..." Kivuli breathed, "I...It's all for you, Sauda. I'm doing it for you."
Sauda rolled her eyes and stepped forward.
"I can't tell me how many times I've heard you say that," Sauda sighed sadly, "Every time you did something, it was for me. But have you ever asked yourself how something like this could possibly benefit me? Well, you don't have to, because I'll tell you. What your planning on doing won't help me. It will only hurt me."
"Huh?" Kivuli asked, "What'd ya mean?"
"I'm not like you, Kivuli," Sauda stated, "I don't enjoy suffering. Especially not when it is the innocent who suffer. Yes, Ahadi did kill me. But it was only because he thought that I was a threat. He was in his right, whether you like it or not. I've forgiven him. Why can't you?"
Kivuli paused for a moment, his eyes slowly shifting to a distant corner of the chamber. Edaha cocked his head in confusion, before jumping in front of Kivuli and staring into his eyes. Edaha's eyes widened.
"Kivuli," Edaha breathed, "While I have no doubt that you do hold a grudge against Ahadi, I have a feeling that your desire to kill him isn't completely personal. Am I correct?"
Kivuli looked away from his brother and mumbled something that could barely be heard as "maybe."
Bemba cocked her head. Sauda took a few steps closer to Kivuli and frowned.
"What's the matter?" Sauda asked, "Are you disappointed that I'm asking you not to kill Ahadi?"
Kivuli nodded.
"Why?" Sauda inquired.
Kivuli let out a heavy sigh and looked over at his younger sister.
"Because I'm bored," Kivuli explained sadly, "Because I can't kill Ahadi without a reason, and you've taken my only means of justifying my actions away. Don't get me wrong. I love being Ed's father more than anything in the world. But life in the Pride Lands just isn't my kind of life. There's no thrill, no worthy opponents for me to tear apart. It's not like I can bring Ed to the Bloody Shadows. It's too dangerous. And Ed has friends in the Pride Lands. I'm not going to take away his happiness, even for the sake of my own. It's just that...It was so perfect, my plan. I was going to kill Ahadi, and then set up my own order. I would have my fun, and Ed would be happy. It was a job worthy of my skill. I don't have much more time on this planet. I just wanted one last run before I die. Heh...Guess it was too good to be true, huh?"
Edaha and Sauda glanced at each other, before looking to wards the ground. Bemba walked over to her mate and rested her head on her shoulder.
"Poor Kivi," Bemba sighed sadly.
Kivuli smiled slightly and looked from Bemba, to Edaha, and finally Sauda. The black hyena let out a heavy sigh and shook his head.
"So that's it then?" Kivuli breathed, "You all agree on this?"
Bemba, Sauda, and Edaha all nodded.
"Trust me," Sauda stated, "It's better if you just give this up."
"Very well," Kivuli nodded sadly, "If you all feel that way, I won't kill Ahadi."
Edaha lowered his head, before smiling at his brother.
"It's for the best, Kivuli," Edaha smirked, "After all, there are more important things to focus on than Ahadi. Y'know, with this greater threat coming, and all."
Kivuli jerked his head upward and looked over at his brother.
"What?" Kivuli asked, "The Falme?"
"Nope," Edaha grinned, "Much, much worse!"
Kivuli's eyes widened with interest. Sauda stepped between the two brothers and faced Edaha.
"Edaha!" Sauda reprimanded, "What do you think you're doing? We're not supposed to tell him!"
"Fine," Edaha groaned, rolling his eyes, "I suppose he'll find out soon enough."
"Find out what?" Kivuli asked.
Edaha smirked and shook his head, before stepping backwards and disappearing in an orb of light. Kivuli turned to Bemba.
"Bemba, my sweet," Kivuli smiled, putting on his full charm and brushing against Bemba, "Surely you know what's going on here."
Bemba shivered. This was too much for her to resist. She began to open her mouth, before noticing Suada glaring at her.
"...Er..." Bemba said nervously, before giving Kivuli an affectionate lick on his cheek, "Sorry, Kivi. Gotta go!"
With that, Bemba disappeared in an orb of light. Kivuli groaned and look over at Sauda.
"Damn it, Sauda!" Kivuli growled, "I demand to know what this greater threat is!"
Sauda sighed and walked over to Uvuli, gently nudging him with her paw.
"Patience," Sauda sighed, "You'll find out soon enough. And knowing you, you'll like it."
Kivuli rolled his eyes and scratched at the ground. Uvuli opened both his eyes and yawned, before looking up at his mother.
"Time to go," Sauda smiled.
"Aw, already?" Uvuli groaned.
Sauda nodded and picked Uvuli up by the scruff of his neck. Uvuli yawned one final time, before turning his head to look at Kivuli.
"Bye, Mr. Kivuli," Uvuli smiled tiredly, "I hope to see you again, real soon!"
Kivuli smiled at Uvuli and stretched.
"See ya, kid," Kivuli yawned, "You be good for your mother. She's a smart one, that's for sure."
Uvuli nodded. Even with her son in her mouth, Sauda's smile could clearly be seen. Sauda gave one final nod, before both she and Uvuli disappeared in an orb of light. Kivuli sighed. Soga shook his head and dropped the burning twig on the ground to extinguish its flame with his paw. The wild dog then began to walk away.
"I suppose your pretty disappointed," Kivuli called after Soga, "Me giving up on killing Ahadi, and all."
Soga paused, before turning back to Kivuli and shaking his head.
"Frankly, I don't give a damn what you decide to do about Ahadi," Soga stated, "All I care about is what you decide to do about Kalab."
Kivuli's eyes widened. He had forgotten about his deal with Soga. Soga began to turn away once more. Once again, Kivuli called after him.
"Soga," Kivuli breathed, "I don't suppose you know anything about this 'greater threat,' do you?"
Soga took a deep breath and turned to Kivuli.
"I do," Soga nodded, "But I can't tell you. What I can tell you is that my family is involved."
Kivuli froze, his eyes slowly widening. Soga winked at the black hyena, before vanishing in a spire of flames. Kivuli looked upwartd, feeling himself being snapped back into consciousness.
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Kivuli awoke to see Katili standing over him, a worried look in his glossy eyes. Kivuli rolled to his feet and addressed his majordomo.
"Yes?" Kivuli asked, "May I help you?"
"You were turning in your sleep, my lord," Katili reported, "I thought that you were maybe having some sort of nightmare."
Kivuli smiled at the bat's choice of words.
"Maybe," Kivuli nodded, "Just maybe. But that is not your concern. You just worry about your job. Why don't you go see what Rai's up to?"
Katili paused, before nodding and giving a salute. With that, the flying fox flew out of Kivuli's burrow in search of Rai. Kivuli suddenly heard a yawn from behind him. The black hyena looked over his shoulder to see Ed wiping the sleep from his eyes.
"Oh, good morning, Ed," Kivuli smiled with a nod.
Ed smiled at his father and yawned once more. The small cub placed his front paws on his stomach as it began to growl. Kivuli smiled and sighed.
"Sounds like someone's ready for breakfast," Kivuli smield at his son, stepping out of his burrow, "Come on. We'll get you whatever you want to eat. Antelope, zebra, hippo, you name it!"
Ed's large eyes widened as drool dripped from his mouth. The hyena cub then yipped excitedly and followed his father as he tiredly walked forward. Kivuli looked up at the sky, still thinking of what Soga had told him.
So, Kivuli thought to himself, Whatever this great threat is, it has something to do with the Bloody Shadows Family. Heh. Sounds like this is gonna be fun!
Ed tugged on his father's leg, bringing Kivuli back to reality. The black hyena looked down at his son and cocked his head.
"What is it Ed?" Kivuli asked, "You know what you want to eat?"
Ed nodded and pointed forward. Kivuli looked in the direction that Ed was indicating to see a large rhino, who was sharpening his horn on a tree. The black hyena's jaw dropped.
"You can't be serious!" Kivuli stated, looking down at his son.
Ed smiled hopefully and nodded. Kivuli turned back to the rhino and shrugged.
"Alright," Kivuli nodded, crouching low to the ground, "If that's what you want, that's what you'll get!"
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The Royal Family sat at the top of Pride Rock and watched as groups of lions entered the Pride Lands. Today was the day. Today was the beginning of the Season of Visitors. Mufasa and Taka stared at the outsiders in awe, for they had never seen so many male lions in one place. Zira eye's darted around wildly. She could feel it. Her father was among the visiting lions. Unfortunately, she could not tell which of the lions was her father, having never met him before. Nonetheless, she knew he was there...somewhere. Uru and Ahadi surveyed the land below them. Many lionesses and their cubs had gathered at the base of Pride Rock, waiting with great anticipation for the males to arrive. The king and queen smiled at each other, before turning their attention back to visiting lions.
"Quite a few of them this season," Ahadi commented, "Strong ones, by the looks of it."
"Indeed," Uru nodded, "I see a lot of them are newcomers, too. We'd best be on guard."
Ahadi nodded. The three cubs looked up at Uru and cocked their heads.
"How do you know that they're newcomers, Mother?" Taka asked his mother.
Uru smiled and lowered her head to the three cubs.
"It's my job to know," Uru stated, "As queen of the Pride Lands, I must keep track of all the lions who attend the Season of Vistors each time one is held. That way, it is easy to spot the ones who are a possible threat."
"Cool!" Mufasa exclaimed, "So, you know most of these lions?"
Uru nodded. The three cubs smiled at each other in awe.
"Are Sarafina and Sarabi's dads here yet?" Taka asked.
Uru raised her head and examining at the crowd of oncoming lions, instantly recognizing two of the lions as the fathers of Sarafina and Sarabi.
"As a matter of fact, they are!" Uru nodded.
Zira stared at the ground and pawed at a nearby rock, before looking up at Uru.
"Wha...What about my dad?" Zira asked hesitantly, "Is he with them?"
The queen smiled at Zira and looked down at the crowd of lions, who had now reached the lionesses. The veterans from the previous Season of Visitors quickly found their mates and cubs. The newcomers, however, gathered together in an area afew yards away from the lionesses, making mental notes of which lionesses had mates to avoid any "unfortunate misunderstandings" Uru looked among the newcomers in the hopes of spotting Rahidi. Unfotunately, she saw no lion that looked like the one from her nightmares. Uru's ears drooped as lowered her head to Zira.
"I'm...sorry, Zira," Uru stated sadly, "I...I'm afraid not."
Zira drooped her ears and looked at the ground in disappointment. A tear slowly sid down the small cub's cheek. Taka placed his paw on Zira's shoulder and smiled reassuringly.
"Aw, cheer up, Zira," Taka smiled, "I'm sure that your dad's just late. You'll see. He'll be here any minute!"
Zira smiled at Taka and wiped the tears from her eyes with her paw.
"Yeah," Zira nodded, "Thanks, Taka."
Uru continued to survey the crowd of lions for Rahidi. The dark lion was nowhere to be seen. The queen rubbed the back of her neck nervously.
Where is he? Uru thought to herself, Zhenga said he was coming. He should be here!
Uru's thoughts were interrupted by a low growl from her mate. Ahadi was looking down below into the crowd of lions. Uru cocked her head in confusion as she looked at her mate's irascible expression.
"Ahadi?" Uru asked, "What is it? Is something wrong?"
Ahadi quickly glanced at his mate, before turning his gaze back to the crowd of lions and continuing to growl.
"One of the lions," Ahadi stated with his teeth bared, "A newcomer. He's staring strait at you! The nerve of...I swear, he better not be thinking what I think he's thinking!"
Uru's eyes widened. The queen looked down at the crowd in search of the lion that Ahadi was talking about.
"Where?" Uru asked her mate.
Ahadi grwoled and pointed downward with his. Uru looked at the ground below to see the lion that Ahadi was indicating. The queen could not believe that she didn't notice this lion before. It stood out from the crowd, with its dark-brown fur and black mane. This lion looked exactly like the lion from her nightmares. This was Rahidi. Rahidi sat completely still, keeping his eyes on the Royal Family. Uru gave a relieved sigh and looked over at her mate.
"It's okay," Uru stated, "That's just Rahidi."
Ahadi stopped growling stared at his mate in confusion.
"Rahidi?" Ahadi asked, "You know that lion?"
Uru nodded. The three cubs looked up at Uru, worried expressions on their faces.
"Why is he staring at us like that, Mother?" Taka asked nervously.
Uru nuzzled her son affectionately and looked down at Rahidi. Even from far away, Uru could tell exactly what Rahidi was staring at.
"He's not staring at all of us, Taka," Uru smiled, "He's just staring at Zira."
Zira's ears perked up at Uru's comment. The small cub immediately ran to the edge of Pride Rock and stared down at the dark-lion. Rahidi blinked and cocked his head.
"He is staring at me!" Zira gasped, "But why?"
Uru stepped forward to sit next to Zira and stroked her back.
"It's only natural that he would," Uru chuckled, "After all, he is your father!"
Zira's eyes widened. Her gaze staid on Rahidi.
"Wha..What?" Zira breathed in disbelief.
"Your father," Uru reitterated, "Rahidi."
Zira's eyes widened even more. Rahidi smiled for the first time since he'd heard of Zhenga's death. He had found her. He had found his cub. The cub that he and Zhenga created together.
There she is, Rahidi though to himself, My cub. She's so...perfect...Like her mother.
My father! Zira's mind raced, I can't believe it! He's here! He's actually here!
Suddenly, Zuzu landed in front of Ahadi and bowed.
"They're all here, Sire," Zuzu stated, "We can begin whenever your ready."
Ahadi scratched behind his ear and nodded.
"Very well," Ahadi stated, "Might as well get this over with."
Ahadi walked over to the tip of Pride Rock to sit beside his mate. Zira slopwly backed away and went back to Mufasa and Taka. The king and queen both let out a loud roar. The visiting males looked up at Royal Couple and returned the roar. Ahadi and Uru smiled at each other, before addressing the visitors.
"Friends!" Ahadi proclaimed jubilantly, "Brothers from the distant kingdoms. Welcome to our land. It is truly an honor to be hosting the Season of Visitors! Each and every one of you have traveled a great many leagues to join us in this joyous time. May the Great Spirits reward you for your kindness!"
The lions cheered, as did their mates and cubs. Mufasa stared at his father and nodded, observing how to properly deliver a royal proclamation. Taka was busy grooming his paw.
"However," Ahadi continued, a bit more formally, "You have come during a dark time for the Pride Lands. We are expecting invaders from a rival kingdom any day, now. These invaders are from the Falme Kindakindaki, Kingdom of Noble Blood. They intend to take this kingdom for their own. They intend to drive all of its residents out. They intend to destroy us!"
A series of outraged roars rang out from below Pride Rock.
"What?" one of the lions snarled, "How could this be happening?"
"Those bastards!" another lion bellowed, "They can't do that!"
Ahadi was somewhat relieved by the lions' cries of anger, for it made it safe to assume that they would not refuse to aid the Pride Lands in their struggle. Ahadi opened his mouth to speak, before being cut off by a voice below.
"Sire," the voice called, "If I may speak?"
Ahadi looked down to wards the source of the voice. Rahidi stepped out of the crowd and nodded to wards Ahadi. Ahadi glared at Rahidi and growled slightly, before Uru held a paw in front of his face to silence him.
"Go ahead," Uru smiled, nodding to wards Rahidi.
"Thank you, your majesty," Rahidi bowed, "I would just like to say that this "Falme Kind...whatever" shall not prevail. Not as long as I live! I offer to you my services. I want to do whatever I can to help. And whatever order you give me, I shall heed. It is the least I can to do to repay your hospitality."
Ahadi's eyes widened, surprised by Rahidi's statement. Zira sat up proudly upon hearing her father's words.
"Thank you," Uru nodded, before addressing the other lions "Now, what we've..."
"I also offer my services," came another voice from below.
Uru cocked her head and looked downward to see another lion step forward. And then another. One by one, each of the lions stepped forward and called up to the king and queen.
"It would be an honor to protect the land of my family!"
"No harm shall come to this kingdom!"
"We'll send those Falme bastards crying back to their mothers with their tails between their legs!"
Ahadi and Uru glanced at each other in shock, before turning back to the crowd of shouting lions.
"Thank you all!" Uru exclaimed, "You have no idea how much this means to us! Your valor shall not go unnoticed! Thanks to you, this land will not fall!"
The lions errupted into a combination of cheers and roars. Uru looked down at Rahidi nodded, mouthing a "Thank you." Rahidi nodded back and smiled, backing into the crowd of hollering lions. The noise died down within a few brief minutes, allowing Ahadi to address the crowd again.
"Thank you once again for your willingness to aid our kingdom," Ahadi stated formally, "However, seeing as how it is a season for us to focus on more festive matters, we should began the celebration. But before we can do that, we will need every newcomer to the Pride Lands to report to us, so that we may get to know you better. All veterans are free to go about there business. We shall begin the celebration tomorrow."
The lions all bowed and broke into two groups; one group of veterans and one group of newcomers. The group of newcomers began to form a line and ascend to the top of Pride Rock. Zuzu circled above and landed in front of them to bar their way.
"One at a time, one at a time" Zuzu shouted formally, before pointing to the lion at the front of the line, "You first."
The lion smiled and nodded, walking past Zuzu. Uru lowered her head to the cubs and nodded.
"There's no reason for you to suffer, y'know," Uru told the cubs with a smile, "You can all go out and play, if you want."
The three cubs shook their heads. There was no way that they were going to miss the opportunity get a better look at these lions.
"Okay," Uru shrugged, "Suit yourself. But the offer isn't going anywhere."
Mufasa, Taka, and Zira nodded and watched as the first of the lions approached Ahadi with a bow. The lion stated his name, where he was born, and where he was from, before turning around and walking down Pride Rock. One by one, more lions did the same. Uru yawned, before glancing at the three cubs with a smile. For her, this was nothing new. It got a bit boring after the first couple of lions. But for the cubs, it was a great experience. The only time the took their eyes off one lion, was so that they could stare at another.
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Haini and Rai walked around Pride Rock, staring in awe at the visiting lions.
"Now this is more like it!" Haini exclaimed, "Lions! Creatures that actually have some potential! Not useless, like all those lionesses!"
Rai sighed and nodded. Ever since she had talked with Kivuli, she was getting tired of comments like that. But she would never show it. As far as she was concerned, Haini was still the greatest creature to ever live. Suddnely, Haini lowered his head and sighed sadly.
"Too bad I won't be around here much longer," Haini groaned, "I gotta leave tomorrow, if I want to make Guedado's deadline."
Rai's ears drooped.
"Do you really have to?" Rai asked.
Haini nodded. Rai slowly stepped closer to Haini and gave him a lick on his cheek. Haini responded by hammering Rai in the face with the back of his paw. Rai fell several feet away after the third hit, tumbling to the ground. The lioness cub slowly got to her feet and looked over at Haini in confusion. Haini glared at her.
"Who the hell do you think you are?" Haini snarled.
"..I...er...I'm so sorry!" Rai cowered, placing her paws over her head, "I forgot my place! Please! Forgive me!"
Haini rubbed his cheek and looked at Rai with disgust.
"You have ten seconds to get outta my sight," Haini stated coldly, extending his claws, "Ten...nine...eight..."
Rai's eyes widened with fear as she ran off. Haini watched her leave and snorted, before turning his attention back to the lions and smiling.
"Now those are some real lions!" Haini nodded, "Not like those princesses, Mufasa and Taka."
Haini thought of the two princes and examined his claws, a smirk slowly creeping across his face.
I'm gonna have to leave tomorrow, that's for sure, Haini thought to himself, I guess I'll just have to give those two pathetic weaklings something to remember me by!
Kivuli watched from a distance as Rai ran off. Katili flapped beside his master and cocked his head.
"Are you not going to go after her, Lord Kivuli?" Katili asked in confusion.
Kivuli sighed with a smile and shook his head.
"No," Kivuli stated, "I already told you, she'll figure it out on her own. If she's anything like Raia, which she is, there's a limit to how much she'll let herself be pushed around. Nah, she'll figure it out. Besides, Haini's leaving tomorrow. That means that she'll be mine. I'll give her the life that she deserves. And if Haini ever shows his face after that, I'll give him something, too. A set of claws across his throat, that is! That way, he'll have nice, long, agonizing death! After all, he should get what's owed to him!"
Kivuli cackled wildly and walked off. Katili raised and eyebrow, before following his master.
Lord Kivuli has been acting rather strange, lately, I still cannot beleive that he's lost his desire to slay Ahadi!...It matters not. Lord Kivuli knows I'm sure that he has his reasons.
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Uru let out a heavy sigh of relief as what appeared to be the last lion walked down Pride Rock.
"That's all of them, right?" Uru asked Ahadi.
Ahadi thought for a moment, having the feeling that they were forgetting someone.
"Not quite," came a voice from a few feet away, "I still haven't registered."
The king and queen looked in the direction of the voice to see Rahidi sitting down with a smile. Zira slowly got to her feet and approached Rahidi.
"D..Dad?" Zira breathed.
Rahidi nodded. Zira leaped forward and burried her head in her father's shoulder.
"Dad!" Zira exclaimed, "You're here!"
Mufasa and Taka smiled at each other, glad to see that their friend was happy. Rahidi nuzzled his daughter affectionately.
"I am," Rahidi nodded, "And I couldn't be happier! Oh, Zira! Look at you! You're as beautiful as your mother was!"
"Ahem," Ahadi cleared his throat.
Rahidi looked up from his daughter to turned his attention to Ahadi.
"Oh..right," Rahidi stated with embarrassment, "I almost forgot. My name is Rahidi. I was born in the Ray Lands. I am currently a resident of the Emlaf Lands...Is that all you need to know?"
Ahadi grumbled to himself, before nodding. Rahidi smiled and went back to nuzzling Zira. Zira purred happily. Uru stepped forward and smiled.
"Thank you," Uru nodded at Rahidi, "You're willingness to help us in our war is truly appreciated. Yuo inspired the other visitors to offer there help, as well. We really were not expecting anyone to just offer their help without us asking. Words cannot express our gratitude!"
Rahidi nodded and looked over at Ahadi, who would not even return grant him a second glance. The dark-lion slowly got to his feet and stretched.
"Well then," Rahidi stated with a yawn, "I suppose I should get a better look at the Pride Lands. My, I can't get over how beautiful it is!"
Uru smiled and nodded. Zira leaped to her feet and ran around her father's legs, before dashing down Pride Rock.
"C'mon, Dad!" Zira laughed, "I'll show you around!"
"Okay, okay," Rahidi chuckled, "I'm coming!"
Rahidi bowed to the king and queen, before running after his daughter. Mufasa let out a heavy sigh. Taka looked over at his brother in confusion.
"What's up?" Taka asked, "Is something wrong?"
"Nah," Mufasa shook his head, "It's just that Zira's probably gonna spend the whole Season of Visitors with her dad. Sarabi and Sarafina, too. Looks like it's gonna be just you and me for a few days."
"R..Really?" Taka asked, finding the situation to good to be true.
Mufasa nodded, a smile slowly spreading across his face. The two brothers nodded at each other and laughed. It was going to be just like old times. The good times. The times when Mufasa was "Taka's brother," and not just "the Future King." Those were the times that Taka longed for. He knew that there weren't going to be many of them left.
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Zira showed Rahidi around the Pride Lands, pointing out everything from the "Water Hole" to the "Puddle I stepped in last week." Along the way, Rahidi told Zira about her mother. How beautiful and smart she was, as well as how couragous she was. Zira in turn told Rahidi about her life since her mother had died, since Rahidi showed a great interest in that subject. It got to the point where Rahidi had to ask Zira to stop, for he could not stand the thought of Shakarri turning Zira into a murderer. Zira merely shrugged and skipped ahead to the story of the stampede. Rahidi smiled to himself, proud of Zira for choosing her own path as opposed to the one Shakarri had picked out for her. Zira continued to tell her father about her life, but interrupted the flow as a question came to her mind.
"Dad?" Zira asked.
"Hmm?" Rahidi replied.
Zira paused a moment, before continuing.
"Why did you volunteer to help?" Zira inquired, "I mean, by what you said, it seems like you have a stake in this."
Rahidi stopped in his tracks and sat down, taking a deep breathe.
"I do have a stake in this," Rahidi told his daughter as he nuzzled her affectionately, "You. I'm not going to just sit back while there's even the slightest chance that you could get hurt. I'm going to protect you."
Zira smiled at her father and purred. Rahidi loweed his head and swallowed.
"But," Rahidi continued, "To say that you are my only reason for wanting to bring down the Falme would not be completely truthful. And you deserve nothing but the truth. I am the prince of the Falme Kindakindaki."
Zira's eyes widened with shock as she slowly backed away. Rahidi shook his head and pulled her close to him with his arm.
"I'm sorry," Rahidi smiled as he shook his head, "I think I may have used the wrong term. Former-prince is more like it. I left the Falme. I couldn't take it anymore. Their ways just sickened me."
Zira nodded slowly, taking in her father's words.
"But even so.." Zira stated, "I don't get why you want to wage war with them."
Rahidi cracked his neck, before smiling at his daughter.
"Let me tell you about the Falme," Rahidi stated tiredly, "There are many places that live under the belief that lionesses are inferior to lions. But the Falme Kindakindaki takes it to a new extreme. There, lionesses are starve, beaten, and even killed, simply because they were born female. Sadly, I once lived under thsi belief, as well...Until I met your mother, that is. She was the most wonderful creature that I had ever met. She was my best friend. I loved her with all my heart. She showed me that lionesses were equal to lions, and deserved equal respect. I went to my father and uncle and begged them for a change...They wouldn't listen...They laughed in my face. That is why I will bring down the Falme. I will lead the lionesses to freedom, and see to it that they are treated justly. Now do you understand?"
Zira stared at her father in awe, before attempting to wrap her small arms around his large neck. Rahidi chuckled calmly and lifed Zira onto his back. The two of them sighed happily.
"Z..Zira?" Rahidi suddnely spoke up.
"Yeah?" Zira cocked her head with a smile.
"When this is all over..." Rahidi began, before swallowing, "Will you come with me to my home in the Emlaf?"
"What? To visit?" Zira asked in confusion.
"No," Rahidi smiled, shaking his head, "To stay. To live with me. We' could be a family, you and I."
Zira's eyes widened at her father's offer. It was definitely tempting. Life in the Pride Lands was great, but Zira had always wondered what it would be like to have a parent. Not like Uru, but a parent who was a blood-relative to her. But Zira had made so many friends and had so many wonderful experiences in the Pride Lands. It was indeed a difficult decision.
"It's okay," Rahidi smiled with a yawn, "You don't have to give me an answer, just yet. Just think about it. No matter what you decide, I'll still love you."
Zira lowered her head and nuzzled her father's mane. She would think about his offer. There was no doubt about that.
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Banzai, Shenzi, and Ed sat atop a large, flat rock and stared at the visiting lions. The three cubs groaned and rolled there eyes.
"This sucks," Banzai grumbled, "Just when you think there can't be any more lions, this happens! Aurgh!"
"Yeah," Shenzi nodded, "I'm getting tired of this. Lions have to be the most boring creatures on the planet!"
Banzai and Ed cocked their heads.
"Really?" Banzai smiled, "I dunno, Shenzi. Ostriches are pretty boring."
"Not as boring as lions," Shenzi snorted.
"What about hippos?" Banzai asked, "They're always yawnin'. Can't get anymore boring than that!"
"Trust me," Shenzi stated, "You'll never come up with anything more boring than a lion."
Banzai placed his paw to his chin, thinking of what else was boring. Suddenly, Ed spoke up.
"Eru hif eredo?" Ed suggested.
Shenzi thought for a moment, before nodding.
"You're right, Ed," Shenzi shrugged, "Those things are pretty boring...Okay, so that's one thing that's more boring than lions."
Banzai spat on the ground and shook his head.
"Y'know what?" Banzai complained, "All this talk about what's boring has got me bored!"
"Banzai's right," Shenzi nodded, "Let's talk about something else."
Ed yawned and cocked his head.
"Ereerree hefed erud?" Ed asked.
Banzai and Shenzi's eyes widened.
"You got a point, Ed," Banzai stated, "Those lions humiliated us! And tomorrow, its their turn! Cause hyena's always get the last laugh!"
Ed rolled around on the ground and laughed wildly.
"Exactly!" Shenzi smirked with a nod, "Now, whatta we gonna do?"
The three hyenas huddled up to discuss their plans of revenge, snickering as they did so. Their plans seemed to be getting better and better...to them, at least.
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Rahidi looked down at Zira, who was asleep in his paws. The dark-lion smiled to himself and gave his sleeping daughter an affectionate lick. Suddenly, Rahidi heard someone walking up to him from behind. Rahidi looked over his shoulder ot see Queen Uru approaching him. The dark-lion smiled and turned back to Zira.
"I suppose you're here to take Zira back," Rahidi sighed.
Uru leaped in front of Rahidi and shook her head, before sitting down.
"I'm here to talk with you about the invasion," Uru stated, "Zhenga tells me that you have some information that could help us."
Rahidi looked down at Zira and smiled, shaking his head.
"Yeah," Rahidi replied, "I might I know a thing or two that you could use. For example, the invasion force should be arriving in four days, the Falme has made alliances with the Nge Lands and the Jakals of Jent, the types of creatures that will take part in the invasion are lions, elephants, leopards, basically everything you have here. I doubt the Falme will stand a chance, though. As a matter of fact, I'm sure that they won't...I mean no disrespect, Queen Uru, but I am very tired. Could we continue this conversation tomorrow?"
Uru's eyes widened, for she was amazed at how much information Rahidi had given her already. The queen nodded and backed away, before turning to wards Pride Rock.
"Very well," Uru yawned, "I suppose it is getting late."
Rahidi nodded and rested his head on his daughter. Uru took a few steps to wards Pride Rock, before pausing and sitting down.
"I appreciate everything you are doing to help," Uru stated, "If there's any way that I can repay you, please don't hesitate to ask."
Rahidi paused, before turning his head ot Uru and nodding with a smile. Uru smiled back and ran off. Rahidi smiled at his sleeping daughter, before looking up at the stars in the sky.
"Zhenga," Rahidi whispered, "It never ceases to amaze me that you and I created something so perfect. We were so good together...maybe we still can be."
Zira rolled over on her other side. Rahidi smiled and gave his daughter and affectionate lick, before drifting off to sleep.
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Kamari and Komo sat under the night-sky, warmed by the light of the moon. The two counted themselves lucky, for this was a blessing that would kill most albinos. Kamari and Komo had always wondered why the light of the sun and moon never forced upon them any negative effect, as it had done for so many of their kind. However, on this night, Kamari had more on his mind than his physical condition. Komo and Kamari were both thinking of the same thing; the white lion's mental condition. While Kamari knew what was bothering him, Komo had no idea. And Kamari liked it that way. Not that he liked keeping a dark secret from his friend. Kamari simply never told Komo about the reason for his exile because he valued Komo as a friend. The last thing Kamari wanted was to lose Komo's friendship. The white lion had actually tried to tell Komo about his past many times before, but could not bring himself to do it. Kamari would not try again. He knew that it was a waste of time. Komo looked down at his friend and draped his trunk over Kamari's right shoulder. Kamari placed his left paw over Komo's trunk and looked up at him with a smile.
"Yeah, I guess it is getting pretty late," Kamari nodded, "We should get some sleep."
Komo nodded and slowly turned around to find a proper place to sleep. Kamari began to follow him, before noticing something over his shoulder. A bright star was gleaming in the night. It was the very same star that Kamari had seen the night he had met Rafiki. Kamari stared at the star, his entire body shaking. Something was happening. Kamari felt dizzy, and the feeling only increased as the star shined brighter. Within moments, Kamari passed out and fell to the ground. Komo, having heard Kamari fall, immediately turned around and stared at his fallen friend in shock. The white elephant ran to Kamari's prone body and shook it wildly with his trunk, before letting out a worried trumpet and lifting the white lion onto his tusks to carry Kamari to Rafiki's tree. Kamari's eyes were clenched tight, for his soul was now exiting his body. And when it would return, it would never be the same again.
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Kamari looked around his new surroundings in confusion. It was only a moment ago that he was in the Pride Lands with Komo, and now he was in a large, flat clearing. The white lion took a few steps forward, before hearing footsteps coming from behind him. Kamari quickly turned around and looked forward, but saw nothing.
"He…hello?" Kamari called nervously, "Is anybody there?"
There was no answer, but the footsteps continued. Kamari could tell by the sound of the footsteps that it was some kind of predator. The clacking of claws on the stone ground was a dead giveaway. The white lion crouched low and took a few steps backward, baring his fangs.
"If somebody's there, then you'd best reveal yourself now," Kamari growled lowly.
The sound of footsteps stopped. Suddenly, a golden-furred lion with a black mane and green eyes appeared in front of Kamari and smiled apologetically.
"I'm sorry about that," the lion stated, "I thought that you could see me the whole time. Hmm….Must've forgotten that they living can only see us if we reveal ourselves. Anyway, I'm sorry."
Kamari's eyes widened with shock.
"It's you!" Kamari gasped, "You're that lion who appeared to me so many years ago!"
The lion smiled and nodded.
"It good to see you again, Kamari," the lion smiled, placing his paw on Kamari's shoulder.
Kamari stared at the ground, before looking into the lion's green eyes.
"Why are you here?" Kamari finally asked.
The lion shook his head and took a few steps back.
"Because you need my help," the lion said calmly, "And I need to help you."
Kamari cocked his head in confusion.
"But why?" Kamari questioned, "Why do you in particular want to help me? This is the second time you've appeared to me. It can't just be coincidence."
The lion took a deep breath and looked over his shoulder, before turning back to Kamari and crouching low.
"Okay," the lion nodded, "I'm not supposed to tell you this, but you're old enough to know the truth. You deserve to know where you came from before you were given to the Eastern Desert Pride. You derserve to know about your true family."
Kamari's eyes widened with surprise.
"You mean that you know?" Kamari asked in excitement, "How do you…."
"Later," the lion stated formally, holding up his paw, "I think that it would be best to address the problems you've been having, first. And I'm sorry to say that I cannot give you any information on where you came from directly. You'll have to figure it out on your own."
Kamari's excitement died down, replaced by disappointment. However, Kamari knew that the golden lion was right. The white lion's problem need to be taken care of immediately. Kamari sat down and let out a heavy sigh.
"Would you at least tell me your name?" Kamari asked hopefully.
The lion touched his paw to his chin, before smiling and nodding.
"I don't see the harm in that," the lion shrugged, "My name is Mohatu."
"Mohatu," Kamari repeated with a nod.
Mohatu nodded and walked over to Kamari to sit beside him.
"Now," Mohatu smiled warmly, "Tell me what's on your mind."
Kamari let out a heavt sigh and turned his head to face Mohatu, explaining everything to the golden lion. His deal with Kivuli, the threat of an invasion, and his haunting fear that the combination of the two could bring out the demon inside him. Mohatu hung onto every word.
"So, that's why I prayed to the Great Spirit's for help," Kamari finished, "I'm lost. I have no idea what to do. If I do nothing, then the blood of many Pride Landers who needed my help will be on my paw by omission. But if I help in the fight against the Falme….I will most certainly get blood on my paws. I can't risk that. I can't risk going back to my old ways. I've tried for so long to repent for what I have done. I want to help others more than anything in the world. But I won't be helping anyone by becoming the Phantom of the Eastern Sands, again. This demon inside me...I…I'm not so sure that I could resist the temptation."
Mohatu nodded and circled Kamari, examining him carefully. Kamari sat completely still with his head pointing to wards the ground. Mohatu smiled and raised Kamari's head upward to look him in the eye.
"I see," Mohatu nodded, "You fear that if you resort to violence, you will become the Phantom once again. Well, I can understand that. What I cannot understand is why you are beginning to feel this way now. You've been channeling your violent behavior splendidly, since our last meeting. Like when you saved those two cubs, and in your hunting. What makes this so different?"
Kamari scratched at the ground with his left paw and thought of how to reply.
"I...was defending Mufasa and Taka," Kamari responded slowly, "I wasn't forced to kill those two lions. I only had to show them that I wasn't going to back down. As for my hunting, the only reason I have no problem killing prey is because it is essential for my survival. And I was able to take down prey without the use of my...right claws."
Kamari lifted his paw and examined it with a look of hopelessness. Mohatu pushed Kamari's paw down with his own and shook his head.
"You're problem is a simple one, caused by three things," Mohatu stated, "Therefore, it requires three simple solutions. Solutions that you must perform yourself. Once you come to terms with these problems, I can release you from your pain. Are you ready to learn the leading factors in your emotional struggle?"
Kamari paused for a moment, before nodding. He had never been more ready for anything in his life. Mohatu stepped closer to Kamari.
"First off," Mohatu said, smiling slightly, "Stop all this 'demon within me' nonsense. You have a bloodlust, plain and simple. Giving it a name is definitely not going to help the situation."
Kamari nodded slowly, seeing the truth in Mohatu's words.
"Secondly," Mohatu continued, "You must realize that there is a difference between murdering out of malice and killing in self-defence. Though it is true that all forms of killing will usually be looked down upon, that does not mean that you should just allow yourself to be torn apart when attacked. The sad truth is that murdering your opponents is the only way to ensure your own safety. It's not as selfish as it sounds, believe me. Killing to defend another's safety is also different from malicious murder. It's complicated...you'll just have to trust me on this one."
Kamari was a bit more hesitant about agreeing with this explanation, but nodded nonetheless. Mohatu placed his paw to his chin and thought for a moment.
"Lastly," Mohatu sighed, "Understand what you have here, exactly. I hate to bring this up after so long, but a whole civilization was destroyed because of you. And ever since then, you've been looking for a chance to redeem yourself. Well, here it is. A kingdom in need of your help. The choice is yours, Kamari. Will you take this opportunity to help theses Pride Lander in their time of need, or will you turn your back on those who need you?"
Kamari's eyes widened, having not made this connection before. The white lion stepped closer to Mohatu until his nose toiuched that of the golden lion's.
"I'll protect them," Kamari breathed, "Even if it costs me my life, I shall see to it that the Pride Lands shall prevail. The Falme will not lay waste to my home. They will not harm my family."
Mohatu pulled his head back, taken aback a bit by Kamari's statement. The golden lion then nodded with a smile.
"You've made a wise choice, Kamari," Mohatu stated proudly, raising his paw in the air, "Now, may your bloodlust be banished from your body for eternity."
A red light began to form in front of the center of Kamari's chest, before shifting into a glass orb and floating over to Mohatu. Mohatu slashed it with his claws, shattering the orb instantly. Kamari watched in awe as the shards hit the ground.
"It is done," Mohatu smiled, "Your so called 'inner demon' has left you."
Kamari placed his paw to his chest and breathed heavily.
"I...don't feel any different," Kamari stated in confusion.
"Good," Mohatu nodded, "That's lets me know that it worked. Now, about my earlier promise. As I told you before, I cannot give you too much information, but I can tell you one thing; the answer to your initial question."
Kamari sat down and cocked his head. Mohatu took a deep breath, before speaking again.
"The reason that I want to help you so badly," Mohatu breathed, "The reason that I care about you so much. The reason that I have been the one to help you through your times of doubt. They are all the same. You are my son, Kamari. And I, your father."
Kamari's eyes widened with shock.
"Wha...What?" Kamari gasped, "What do you mean?"
"I mean what I told you," Mohatu stated calmly, "I am your father."
Kamari looked around, still in shock of what he was hearing.
"But how?" Kamari asked, "I always thought that my father was an albino! At least...that's what Kivuli told me..."
Mohatu shook his head and placed his paw on Kamari's shoulder.
"Kivuli had no reason to tell you the truth," Mohatu explained, "But trust me. He will eventually. He'll tell you much more than I am able to. He's a good creature."
Kamari gave the golden lion a skeptical look. Mohatu smiled and shook his head.
"Give it time," Mohatu smiled, "You'll see. You'll soon learn more than you could have hoped."
Kamari looked over his shoulder, before nodding at Mohatu. Mohatu smiled and patted his son on the back.
"I must now leave your presence," Mohatu sighed sadly, "But I shall never leave you."
"What do you..." Kamari began.
It was too late. Mohatu had vanished into thin air. Kamari let out a heavy sigh, before hearing a voice from above his head.
"Kamahri," the voice called, "Kamahri, wake up."
Kamari smiled, for he could now feel himself being lifted back into consciousness.
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Kamari opened his eyes to see Komo and Rafiki standing over him. The two both smiled with relief upon seeing Kamari's pink eyes open. Rafiki placed a damp leaf over the white lion's forehead and stroked Kamari's cheek with his hand.
"We've been very worried about you, my friend," Rafiki smiled, "Ah you alright?"
Kamari looked between Kamari and Komo, briefly catching a glimpse of a bright star. The white lion smiled and rolled onto his stomach.
"I'm better than alright!" Kamari nodded, "In fact, I'm better than ever!"
Rafiki and Komo glanced at each other in confusion. Komo looked down at Kamari and let out a low trumpet. The white lion smiled at his friend and placed his paw on Komo's trunk.
"It's all going to be okay now, Komo," Kamari stated, "I'm going to do my part in protecting this land. We will win this war. You hear me? The Pride Lands shall prevail!"
With that, Kamari leaped to his feet and ran off, laughing as he did so. Rafiki looked up at Komo and cocked his head.
"Wat do you tink happened?" Rafiki asked, "Wat would make him change his mind like dat?"
Komo shrugged. Rafiki looked up at the sky and smiled.
"Oh, well," Rafiki shrugged, "It is gewd news, whatevah caused it."
Komo nodded and turned in a circle, before laying himself on the ground. Rafiki climbed up his tree and stretched onto a low branch.. Not too far away, Kamari was staring up on the moon. This was different from when he usually gazed at the moon. This time, the white lion did not envy the moon. He felt pure. He felt as though he was finally rid of his 'inner demons.' Kamari felt at one for the moon. The white lion had more in common with the moon than he had originally thought, for even the moon had trouble escaping from it's dark side. Kamari looked up at the brightest star in the sky and let out a relieved sigh.
"I'll make you proud, Father," Kamari smiled confidently, "I'm going to make a difference. And this time, it will be for the better."
A calm breeze surrounded Kamari, warming his entire body. Kamari was going to make a larger difference than he could have ever imagined.
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Hi. I'm sorry that Haini didn't get what he deserved in this chapter, but it wouldn't fit in. Two out of three ain't bad! I don't wanna hear your complaints. ;) Just be patient.(And if you're really good, I'll let you have five minutes alone with him! Your choice of weapon. But only if you're good. If you're not good...just trust me. It's just better to be good.) Can I ask you something? When my chapters are this long, would you rather that I upload it all together, or split it in half and then upload it? Please review.